2011 Annual Report

2011
Newton County
University Extension Annual
Report
Newton County Extension
601 Laclede, Smith Hall
Neosho, MO 64850
(417) 455-9500 Fax: 455-9505
Website: http://extension.missouri.edu/newton
University of Missouri Extension provides equal opportunity to all participants in extension programs and activities, and for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without discrimination on the basis
of their race, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability or status as a protected veteran.
INDEX
Staff Introductions
6
4-H Youth Development
8
Agriculture & Small Family Farms
15
Dairy
18
Small Ruminant, Lincoln University
17
MAESTRO
19
Master Gardeners
16
Business Development
11
Food & Nutrition Education Program
20
Family Financial Education
12
Farm Family Celebration
21
Continuing & Distance Education
22
Newsletter & Media Releases
7
Newton County Extension Council
24
Extension Budget
25
University of Missouri Financial Contribution 25
VICE PROVOST’S OFFICE
108 Whitten Hall
Columbia, MO 65211
PHONE: (573) 882-7477
FAX: (573) 882-1955
January 2012
Dear County Commissioners and Associated Friends of MU Extension:
“Efficiency” and “Innovation” are two watchwords of citizens and government in our currently challenging economy. I am pleased
to report that University of Missouri Extension has kept these words in the forefront and acted accordingly for the benefit of Missouri residents statewide.
Funded through the support of federal, state and county government; grants and contracts; fees for services; and private gifts, MU
Extension leverages every dollar received to create expanded educational opportunities. Every dollar provided from counties is leveraged with an additional $6.00 to create a significant return on investment.
MU Extension creates value for citizens – including those who do not participate directly in its programs. For example:
The federal Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program provided $1.6 million to the state of Missouri. These
funds provide nutrition education to limited-resource families. Participants who graduate from the program improve the way they manage their food dollars; demonstrate acceptable food safety practices and make healthier
food choices. A healthy labor force is critical to attracting and keeping jobs in Missouri. In addition, this important
program reduces healthcare costs over the participant’s lifetime, saving taxpayers money in reduced public healthcare benefits and insurance premiums.
2011 has been a difficult year due to natural disasters in Missouri. The MU Extension statewide Community Emergency
Management Program and local emergency management groups provided immediate on-site assistance by coordinating with the State Emergency Management Agency, Red Cross and other groups and by providing online resources through web pages and other media. As a result, citizens learned how to avoid scammers, ensure safe
drinking water and food, and recover from a disaster. MU Extension's emergency management program helps
communities, businesses, schools and residents reduce a community's disaster recovery period. This action saves
lives and countless dollars in emergency recovery operations and avoids job loss. Additionally, the whole community
builds a greater sense of cohesion.
These are just two examples of MU Extension’s public value impact. I’m sure you will find many other examples in your local
community.
I want to thank you for your support of MU Extension as a critical team player in your locale. Your ideas for improving our
partnership are always welcome.
Sincerely,
Michael D. Ouart
Vice Provost and Director
Newton County Extension Center
Neosho, Mo. 64850
Tel: (417)455-9500
Website: http://extension.missouri.edu/newton/
Extension’s Program Guidance Comes From You
The University of Missouri Extension council and staff would like to thank the Newton County Commissioners and the citizens of Newton County for their support and funding of programs during this year. The council
and staff remain committed to improving people’s lives by helping them meet the opportunities and challenges
of the 21st century with research-based education and information.
University of Missouri Extension is a partnership of the University of Missouri campuses, Lincoln University,
the people of Missouri through county extension councils, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The mission of MU Extension is to: "serve Missouri by extending the unbiased research-based knowledge and problem
-solving resources of the University of Missouri and Lincoln University to focus on high-priority needs of people throughout the state." Both the University of Missouri and Lincoln are the state’s two land-grant universities, charged by federal acts of Congress to deliver extension programs. Both are present in providing Newtown County high-quality programming.
We encourage you to participate in programs, and welcome your suggestion for programming ideas. Stop by
and visit the office at 601 Laclede, Smith Hall, Crowder College in Neosho or visit with your local extension
council member to share any ideas or concerns you have about local programming.
Current programming efforts statewide focus on agricultural profitability and viability, building family and
individual strengths, building human resources, business, community and economic development, enhancing
health and nutrition, environmental quality, stewardship and youth development.
This report is a summary of the highlights in our educational efforts during the past year. We hope this report
provides a greater understanding about University of Missouri Extension programming efforts in Newton
County.
Submitted respectfully by,
Shiela Littlefield
Ronald Hoyez
Jeremy Elliott-Engel
Shiela Littlefield
Council Secretary
Ronald Hoyez
Council Chairman
Jeremy Elliott-Engel
County Program Director
2
Staff Members at the
Newton County Extension Center
Diverse, Experienced and Well Trained Staff
The staff of the University Extension office in Newton County is diverse, representing a variety of
backgrounds, experiences and educational levels.
Jeremy Elliott-Engel serves
as the County Program
Director and the 4-H Youth
Development Specialist
based in Newton County
where he works to expand
opportunities for 252 4-H
members and 113 4-H volunteers. Additionally he manages the 4-H programs in
McDonald and Barry Counties.
Jodie Pennington, Ph.D. is a
Lincoln University employee.
His primary responsibility is in
the Southwest Region. His duties with small ruminants include
both adult and youth diverse audiences including ethnically diverse and limited resource producers. He works with individuals, producer organizations, and
various state, and federal agencies involved with small ruminant production.
Jeremy
Elliott-Engel
County Program
Director &
4-H Youth
Development Specialist
Kelly Roberts
MAESTRO
Extension Associate
Kelly Roberts. the Extension
Associate for the Missouri
Agricultural and Energy Savings Team (MAESTRO)
joined the staff in December.
Roberts looks forward to providing farm energy audits and
providing low interest loans
for on farm improvements.
Roberts comes from Missouri
Department of Agriculture.
Lynda DuMond
4-H Youth
Development Program
Assistant
Lynda DuMond is a 4-H
Youth Development Program
Associate for Newton County
and is completing her eighth
year. The position is a shared
position with McDonald
County with Dumond working two days per week in each
county. She coordinates the
Sew-A-Thon that makes quilts
for pregnant woman at the
Life Choices Ministries.
Jodie
Pennington, Ph.D.
LU Small Ruminant
Specialist
The Newton County Extension Center welcomes 1,470 visitors to our
office and 5,259 incoming telephone calls for assistance this year.
6
Staff Members at the
Newton County Extension Center
Diverse, Experienced and Well Trained Staff
Six staff members and regional Specialists representing areas of 4-H Youth Development, Agriculture,
Human and Environmental Sciences, and Business Development reached 12,072 Newton County residents.
Jennifer Howard is completing her seventh year as
the Food and Nutrition
Program (FNP) in Newton
County. She works with a
federal nutrition grant
providing nutrition information to low income families.
She provides services to the
Newton County Department
of Health, the Woman Infants and Children (WIC)
Program and many other
area agencies.
Verna Simkins, is the face of the
Newton County Extension office
answering over 438 monthly telephone calls, receiving over 262
field and garden soil samples annually, and greeting 123 Newton
County citizens a month.
Jennifer Howard
Family Nutrition
Education Program
Associate
Verna Simkins
Administrative
Assistant
The Newton County Extension Center averages 22 farm and
garden soil samples and 1 poultry house litter sample a month.
Southwest Region News Service
405 Newton County residents subscribe to the online news service
Southwest Region News Service is a weekly news service highlighting University of Missouri Extension programs in southwest Missouri. Weekly articles, using information from regional extension specialists, are delivered by e-mail every Friday and reach editors or staff members at every newspaper, magazine, television and
radio station covering the issues important to residents of Newton County.
1,800 people, reporters, editors and Missourians receive Southwest Region News Service every week by email. The articles are often published. Story placement because of the news service had a value of over $1.8
million during 2011.
Readers say they have increased awareness of issues in southwest Missouri, according to 91 percent of readers.
7
4-H Youth Development
One of every four Missourians between the ages of 5 and 18 participated in a Missouri 4-H program in 2011. Missouri 4-H is providing opportunities for youth to develop positive self-esteem, leadership skills, decision-making skills, citizenship and
practical life-skills Missouri 4-H connects kids with caring adults for learning-by-doing
experience in organized clubs, enrichment programs, special-interest groups, and camps.
Volunteers donated 13,400 hours worth $264,650
Community service is integral to positive youth development programs. Missouri young people who are 4-H
participants report significantly more leadership experiences and higher scores on internalizing the value of
service that their non-4-H peers.
252 4-H participants in 11 organized community clubs
Eleven county 4-H clubs offer long-term educational experiences in which
members learn life skills such as decision making, public speaking and
working with others. Members learn by doing under the guidance of adult
volunteers, who teach projects ranging from aerospace and arts to veterinary science and sport fishing. Clubs also involve children and teens in
community service, camping and educational trips.
245 Newton County children participated
in 4-H school programs
Newton County 4-H Council officers
travelled to Jefferson City to visit the
capitol and meet their state legislators.
Newton County 4-H school enrichment programs are short-term educational experiences that supplement learning in the classroom. Most are led L-R Back: Hannah Henady, Victoria Giebler, State Senator Ron Richards
by teachers or 4-H volunteers. The 4-H school enrichment programs in
L-R Front: Jesse Shilling and Madelaine
Newton County are Embryology, the study of hatching eggs and Robotics.
CPI-Southwest Hatchery sponsors the Embryology project through donation of incubated eggs.
134 youth and adult volunteers donated time valued at $264,650
Volunteers create, support and are a valuable part of the 4-H community. Missouri 4-H volunteers responding
to a survey reported they contribute on average 100 hours per year. Valuing their time at $19.75 per hour,
based on average Missouri incomes, the contribution of Newton county 4-H volunteers was worth more than
$264,650 in 2011. More importantly, these adults serve as mentors for our youth which is priceless.
8
4-H Youth Development
497 Newton County youth contacts experienced 4-H with 113 adult
volunteers in projects related to science, engineering and technology
4-H YOUTH ON POSITIVE GROWTH TRAJECTORY
Studies have suggested a link between positive youth development
and:
 Positive and sustained relationships between youth and adults
 Activities that build important life skills
 Opportunities for youth to use these life skills as both
participants and as leaders in valued community activities
Programs having these features may be termed youth development
programs (Lerner, 2004); Roth & Brooks-Gunn, 2003). To better
understand how programs for youth contribute to positive youth development, National 4-H Council sponsored the 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development. To date, over 6,000 adolescents from 34
states responded to surveys assessing positive youth development.
CONNECTING KIDS TO CARING ADULTS
The ground-breaking national study confirmed what we already
knew: Kids who are active 4-H member have more caring adults in
their lives, are more likely to engage in science programs and excel
in leadership and volunteer service. Active 4-H members over the
past three years identify more adult mentors in their lives than
non-4-H youth or youth who engage in 4-H opportunities less than
two times a month.
F. 1 Five Year Enrollments for Newton County 4-H
Seven Newton County 4-H members travelled to Washington, D.C, Philadelphia and
New York City for Citizenship Washington
Focus
L-R Back: Joanna Persons, Jeremy Elliott-Engel, Jackson Farmer, Kim Parker ; L-R Front: Jesse Shilling,
Abby Kennedy, Madelaine Gieabler
800
600
245
400
200
0
0
0
0
101
School Enrichment
Club Enrollment
256
239
238
249
252
138
130
113
103
134
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
Volunteer
References: Lerner, Richard M., Lerner, Jacqueline V., and Phelps, Erin. (2009) Waves of the Future: The first five years of the 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development. Available at: www.4-h.org/about/youth-development-research/
9
4-H Youth Development
Newton County 4-H
Council Corporate
Sponsors
_______________________
Neosho Community
United Fund
BUILDING IMPORTANT LIFE SKILLS
Life skills are defined in a variety of ways. 4-H, in recent years, has given special attention to youth interest, attitudes and engagement in science, engineering and computer technology. Active 4-H members spend almost ten times
more of their out-of-school time engaged in science based activities than their
non-4-H peers.
Arvest Bank & The
Walton Family
Foundation
LA-Z-Boy Midwest
Community Bank &
Trust
Deborah Schellhorn, represented
Newton County on the State 4-H
Council as the Kids Helping Kids
Coordinator.
Preston Farmer (L) and Greg Vangunda
(R) studying livestock judging during a
summer practice.
George Washington Carver
National Monument
CPI-Southwest, Inc.
Newton County 4-H Horse Club
Youth organized to raise over $1,000 for local families that
were impacted by the Joplin Tornado during the 2011
Newton County Fair.
L-R Greg Vangunda, Victoria Giebler, Andrew
Littlefield, Abby Kennedy, Madelaine Giebler
Heyley Heupel gave the
winning State 4-H Prepared
Speech, titled “Trich or
Treat”
10
Business & Workforce Development
106 clients and companies utilized business start-up and management
counseling, training, and other assistance provided by MU Extension Business Development during 2011. The business development program specialists and business
counselors with MU Extension, Missouri Small Business & Technology Development
Centers (MO SBTDC), Missouri Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (MO
PTAC), Missouri Environmental Program, Missouri Career Options Project, and the
Missouri Market Development program served entrepreneurs and business owners.
Increased County sales by $2,472,657
Newton County entrepreneurs and business owners reported the following economic impact and activity as a
result of the services provided by the MU Extension Business Development Program:
1 new job created
$2,472,657 in increased sales from counseling
1 new businesses launched
$5,300 loans and investments in business
106 Newton County clients or companies participated in business training
THE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM DELIVERY NETWORK INCLUDES:
Missouri Small Business & Technology Development Centers
Funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration, this award is matched
on the local level by state university hosts and private sector partners. Services include individualized business counseling and a wide variety of educational opportunities.
Missouri Procurement Assistance Centers (MO PTAC)
Funded by the U.S. Defense Logistics Agency, this program helps businesses win government contracts for a wide range of products and services.
Kathryn Macomber
Business Development Specialist
Phone: 417-682-3579
[email protected]
www.missouribusiness.net
Missouri Market Development Program
The program, which is funded at by the Environmental Improvement and
Energy Resources Agency via the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, helps business owners find markets for recycled materials and helps
other businesses in securing funding for manufacture of new goods using
those recycled materials.
Career Options
The program assists displaced workers explore business ownership and career repositioning following company closings and lay-offs.
11
Family Financial Education
Participants in MU Extension Family Financial Education programs spend and
borrow responsibly, save more and gain control over their financial health. These
behaviors benefit other community members by reducing predatory lending and reliance
on public assistance programs, reducing theft and lowering banking fees.
$22,000 saved on Newton County residents loans
Two Newton County families participated in home buyer education
classes. These classes are a requirement to qualify for a special low income, first-time home buyer loan program through USDA Rural Development. University of Missouri Extension serves as a provider for these
classes. Eleven, two-hour workshops were presented in Carthage during
2011 to help first-time home buyers meet this requirement. Included was
information on what you should consider before buying a home, the home
buying process, managing personal finances, choosing a home, making a
purchase, caring for the home after purchase and record keeping.
Nineteen (19) adults representing 15 families participated in these workshops. Nine families were working with the Neosho USDA Rural Development office and six were working with the Carthage USDA Rural Development office. Of the nine working with the Neosho office, two resided in Newton County.
Conservative calculations indicate that these 15 families will save more than $11,000 each over the life of
their loans as a result of attending the home buyer education workshops provided in Carthage by University of
Missouri Extension. This is due to a lower interest rate than what they could qualify for at other financial institutions, plus the savings from not having to pay points or purchase private mortgage insurance.
These loans resulted in approximately
$1,200,000 of economic activity in
Newton, McDonald, Barry, Dade
and Jasper counties.
12
12,072
Newton County
residents received
information from
MU Extension
$2,811,190.40
economic impact was
created by MU Extension
for Newton County
Agriculture & Small Family Farms
Newton County is ranked 5th in livestock and poultry receipts from Missouri
Farm Facts. Newton County is a forage, beef, and poultry producing county. Most of
the farm income is from poultry and beef. Agriculture is an important asset to the economy of the county and the Newton County Extension Office received 1,800 contacts on
agriculture topics.
1,800 citizens contacted the office on Agriculture
AG NEWS & VIEWS
407 citizens in Newton County receive the Ag News & Views newsletter that provides monthly information
on livestock and forage production. More detailed information is distributed to the producer via guide sheets,
programs and personal farm visits by the specialist.
PRODUCER AND GARDEN SOIL TESTING
262 field and garden soil samples were analyzed through the University of Missouri testing facilities. With the ever increasing price of fertilizers, farmers need information based on unbiased soil fertility recommendations that are provided by the University of Missouri Extension Specialists. Producers are provided
with recommendations on levels of lime, fertilizer and cropping to improve crop yields and soil productivity.
PRIVATE PESTICIDE APPLICATOR TRAINING
45 agricultural producers renewed or obtained a pesticide applicators license.
Missouri law requires
agricultural producers to attend training to certify or recertify to buy and use restricted use pesticides. The license is effective for five years and user and purchaser must take training to recertify. Private pesticide applicator training was offered at Anderson, Neosho, Longview and Pineville. Approximately forty five participants received training to obtain their private restricted use of license for purchasing pesticides this year.
GRAZING SCHOOL
24 farmers attended the Grazing School coordinated in conjunction with Crowder College and Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). Over three days producers learned the relationship between soil, plant
and livestock, and how different management techniques effect these relationships. The twenty-four farmers
attending are qualified DSP-3 cost-share practice with the NRCS.
SPOTTED KNAPWEED CONTROL
No farms were scouted by MU Extension Specialists for Spotted Knapweed.
Spotted Knapweed was first
identified in Newton County in 2006. It has spread rapidly in the southern half of the county, especially along
the right–of-ways in 2007 and 2008. Extension efforts toward control including information sheets to landowners, news articles and photos for the public, and working with MODOT locate infestations utilizing GPS
and in 2009 root borer and flower head weevils were released as a biological control. The Missouri legislature
did vote to classify the Spotted Knapweed as a noxious weed.
15
Master Gardeners
Over 2,000 individuals residing in Newton County
were provided horticulture knowledge by Master
Gardeners. Sixty-One master gardeners reported 2,627 hours
of volunteer service to community projects valued at $51,883.
Volunteers donated 2,627 hours worth $51,883
The activities of Master Gardeners in this area were coordinated by MU Extension Specialist, John Hobbs. A
total of 2,627 hours were reported in 2011 by sixty-one area Master Gardeners who served the entire year and
reported. They reported making over 2,000 contacts with persons in the community throughout the year. First
-year Master Gardeners are required to provide 30 hours of service and seasoned Master Gardeners are only
required to provide 20 hours, but they provided on average 52 hours of local volunteerism.
According to the latest figures from the Independent Sector organization, the hourly wage for Missouri
volunteer hours currently is $19.75 . If you put a value on the education and service hours provided to the
community, the value totals $25,592.16. Twenty people received Master Gardener Core Training this year.
The work provided by the Hill ‘n’ Holler Master Gardeners
Chapter, which consists of graduates of the NewtonMcDonald County Master Gardener Program are listed below.

Newton County members of the club have maintained a
landscaping project in Morse
Park. This multi-year project
emphasizes native plants.

Members provided educational displays and presentations at the Carver Days and
Prairie Days at the GW Carver Master Gardener volunteers at Prairie Days
At George Washington Carver National
National Monument.
Monument

Members held a plant sale
as a club fundraiser.

Members developed Master Gardener displays at McDonald/Newton
County Fairs.

Members established plantings at the Neosho National Fish Hatchery.
John Hobbs
Agriculture Specialist
Phone: 417-455-9500
[email protected]
Hill ‘N’ Hollow Master Gardeners provided a scholarship to
a Crowder College student aspiring to a horticulture career.
16
Small Ruminant, Lincoln University
8,000 direct regional contacts were recorded by Lincoln University Small
Ruminant Specialist, Dr. Jodie Pennington while he was supporting sheep and goat
producers in Southwest Missouri. Additionally, 90,000 indirect contacts were made
through consistent written media outreach. Dr. Pennington is the only Lincoln
University Extension Specialist jointly hosted with a MU Extension County office.
90% of contacts made changes to their program
Southwest Missouri
Sheep and Goat
Advisory Committee
Daniel Anderson,
Walnut Grove, MO
Jamie Burks
Sparta, MO
Christy Cole
Neosho, MO
Rose Fox,
Granby, MO
Lyndon Irwin
Bois D’Arc, MO
Rachael Kennedy
Neosho, MO
Producers helped in Newton and surrounding counties
Routinely, local producers and industry personnel contacted the office for
assistance with production, marketing, and/or contact information concerning
small ruminants; of 165 contacts, surveys indicated 90% followed up with
changes as a result of the assistance provided from extension personnel.
Good working relationships were developed at Crowder College, College of the
Ozarks, between numerous producers of small ruminants, youth groups, and
personnel from National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the Farm
Service Agency (FSA) and local banks. Email lists for goat and sheep producers in the area and region were enhanced and utilized. An inaugural fiber festival at Crowder College was conducted to expose local residents to the fiber arts.
Measures of success from evaluations of attendees at the conferences in Mt.
Vernon and Neosho showed the gain in knowledge from presentations was
about double, generally going from 30-40 before the talks and increasing to 6080 after discussions were conducted, based on a scale of 0 to 100.
Brian Nelson
Sarcoxie, MO
Todd Schubert
Stotts City, MO
Jorge Zapata
Monett, MO
Attendees at Fiber Daze at Crowder College
receive instruction on the proper use of
spinning wheels. More than 100 attended the
initial fiber festival
Dr. Jodie Pennington is sharing a
presentation on the Lincoln University Small
Ruminant program at the SW Center field day
near Mt. Vernon.
17
Dairy
The average price for 3.5% butterfat milk in the region for 2011 (excluding January
price) was a respectful $20.59/hundred pounds, a rise of $3.75 from the previous year.
This price proved to be critical as producers saw grain prices increase significantly, the
drought resulting in almost 100 days less grazing and a depletion of hay reserves. However, milk prices for 2012 are anticipated to be $1.00-2.00 less in 2012, but fortunately,
grain futures have eased a bit to help offset anticipated lower milk prices. Weather conditions for 2012 will have a significant effect on profitability of county herds.
2011
Post-Freshening Workshop Held in March – Nineteen producers attended a workshop to discuss issues confronted during the calving season. A project at the MU SW Research Farm Dairy evaluating the effects of including the use of a teat sealant at dry-off to a control group was discussed. Preliminary results demonstrated a
reduction with the use of the sealant; however, the data has not been statistically analyzed.
SW Missouri Dairy Synchronization Trial - Thirty eight producers attended a workshop to discuss a research project comparing two synchronization protocols that would be evaluated in five seasonal, pasturebased dairy herds and include almost 3,000 animals. The two protocols to be used was the one developed at the
SW Research Center dairy and the other a modification of the MU Ov-Synch program. Results will not be
available until 2012.
Irrigation of Pastures – A workshop was held in June with 28 dairy producers to discuss various means of
irrigating pastures. Mike Meier, Barry County dairy grazer, was arranging to install a K-Line® system to irrigate approximately 26 acres of crabgrass. Anticipated cost for the system was estimated at $16,000 utilizing
lagoon effluent as the water source.
Third Missouri Dairy Grazing Conference – The University of Missouri
conducted the 3rd Missouri Dairy Grazing Conference in Springfield during
July. There were 263 in attendance, representing 21 states and three foreign
countries. This three-day conference highlighted the efforts of the University
of Missouri, particularly the MU SW Research Center dairy, and included
speakers from five other states.
Tony Rickard, Ph.D.
Dairy Specialist
Phone: 417-847-3161
Drought effects on pasture forages – Thirty two producers attended a workshop in September to evaluate the effects of the drought on pastures at the
MU SW Research Center dairy. The novel endophyte fescue pastures were
very acceptable; however, the perennial ryegrass pastures had very little live
growth visible. This was the second consecutive year a drought had eliminated the ryegrass pastures and requiring a complete re-seeding. Most of the
producers at the workshop experienced similar effects on their dairies, although there were two dairies the grass had survived. The center advisory
group will be making recommendations in 2012 as to whether this species
will continue to be used on the dairy.
18
MAESTRO
Missouri Agricultural Energy Saving Teama Revolutionary Opportunity
Helps local producers reduce energy use
Over 40 new participants joined the program in the months of December and January 2011 in this area. The
program offers Missouri residents that have gross receipts of at least $1,000 per year of farm related income
cost share grants for implementing energy saving materials, both in their homes as well as farm equipment.
MAESTRO is a program funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and operated by the Missouri Department
of Agriculture, University of Missouri and EnSave, Inc. The program offers farm Energy Management Plans
(EMP) and Technical Assistance (TA). Through the EMP and TA, farmers will receive recommendations of
energy efficient equipment that will save them money.
Kelly Roberts, MAESTRO
Extension Educator area of
responsibility
19
Food and Nutrition Education Program
University of Missouri Extension Family Nutrition Education Programs (FNEP)
reached 6,509 low-income participants with nutrition education in Newton
County during 2011. FNEP provides information on nutrition, food safety, and physical
activity for lifelong health and fitness.
6,509 citizens were provided nutrition education
Nutrition education for youth provides information in kid-friendly terms and lessons with hands-on activities.
Activities include opportunities for taste-testing healthful foods and practicing skills that lead to good health.
Education for adults includes nutrition, food safety, physical activity, and food resource management. 97% of
graduates made at least one improvement to their diets to more closely align with USDA Dietary Guidelines.
PROGRAMS OFFERED IN NEWTON COUNTY INCLUDE:
Newton County Health Department’s Woman, Infants and Children Program received Eating Smart,
Being Active: an eight lesson nutrition curriculum for adults
Benton Elementary, George Washington Carver Elementary, Central Elementary implemented Show Me
Nutrition an in-classroom nutrition and healthful choices education program.
“While shopping I was
approached by a former student
from the Turn Around Ranch. She
showed me her "whole" grain
choices with the word WHOLE.”
said Newton County Extended Family Nutrition
Program Associate, Jennifer Howard
Goodman and Westview Elementary Schools
hosted Food Power Adventure: an interactive exhibit that takes children to the farm to learn where
food comes from, and into the human body to
learn how it gives them energy to grow and play.
Show Me Nutrition educational displays for teachers were utilized in three Newton County schools.
Sonshine Pre-Kindergarten, Granby Head
Start, Seneca Head Start, and Neosho Head
Start also hosted programs from the Family Nutrition Education Program.
3,825 youth and 2,684 adults were served through schools,
community groups and agencies.
20
Food and Nutrition Education Program
Statewide surveys of the Food and Nutrition Education program results summarized for the state revealed the
following:
82% of graduates improved how they managed their food dollars
48% of participants more often planned meals in advance
40% of participants more often compared prices when shopping
51% of participants more often used a list for grocery shopping
35% of participants less often ran out of food before the end of the month
87% of graduates made healthier food choices
47% of participants more often thought about healthy food choices when deciding what to feed their
families
34% of participants more often prepared foods without adding salt
59% of participants more often used the “Nutrition Facts” on food labels to make food choices
35% of participants reported that their children ate breakfast more often
2nd Annual Farm Family Celebration
Missouri Century Farm
Presented to Gary Schroeder
Recognized for keeping their family homestead for
over 100 years in Peirce City
Honored in conjunction with Missouri Farm
Bureau and State Rep. Bill Reiboldt
Missouri State Fair Farm Family
Presented to the family of
John and Sheila Littlefield
Recognized for their dedication to agriculture,
extension and their community
21
Continuing and Distance Education
FIRE AND RESCUE TRAINING INSTITUTE (FRTI)
133 fire and rescue workers in Newton County attended classes. MU Extension’s Fire and Rescue
Training Institute is charged with providing comprehensive continuing professional education and training to
Missouri’s fire service and emergency response personnel. The institute has a direct impact on the well-being
and protection of Missouri’s 25,000 firefighters and the 5.8 million citizens they serve. Courses prepare firefighters for medical emergencies, hazardous materials response, and disaster preparedness and mitigation, as
well as fires. In FY 2011, MU FRTI trained firefighters representing all 114 Missouri counties for a total enrollment of 13,048 fire and emergency responders equating to over 243,000 student instructional hours of
training. For more information, see mufrti.org.
MU CONFERENCE OFFICE
82 individuals participated in Conference Office events through the MU Conference Office.
The MU Conference Office provides high-quality, professional, full-service meeting management for a variety
of noncredit educational programs, such as conferences, workshops, seminars and
symposia. Whether a meeting is hosted on campus, in out-state Missouri or anywhere in the world, the office’s professional staff provides assistance to create the
best learning environment for participants. For FY2011, the MU Conference Office
registered 14,583 Missourians in MU Extension conferences. Participants attended
conferences on teacher training, natural areas, advancing renewables and greening
homes.
MISSOURI TRANINING INSTITUTE (MTI)
17 business professionals received continuing education on business and industry through the Missouri Training Institute in the Trulaske College of Business. MTI provides
continuing education, custom-designed training programs and business consulting services for business and
industry, public and nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions. Training programs include subjects
such as human resource management, supervision, management, leadership, team building, effective decision
making generational differences and business writing. The institute’s consulting services include human resources, strategic planning, board development and facilitating board retreats. For more information, see
mti.missouri.edu.
CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION (CME)
1 medical professional received continuing education through the Office of Continuing Medical Education. CME serves rural primary-care physicians with access to education that allows them to meet
requirements for state licensure. Additional programs include specialty medicine as well as health education. Distance learning via the Missouri Telehealth Network provides access to weekly grand rounds from
various School of Medicine departments. For more information, see http://medicine.missouri.edu/cme/.
233 Newton County residents received vital education in support of their careers
through continuing and distance education offered by MU Extension.
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Live and Learn with Extension
Newton & McDonald County 4-H members sew quilts for Life
Choices Ministries for new mothers.
Participants in the annual grazing school held at
Crowder College learn from MU Extension Specialists about proper fencing, pasture management and how to increase productivity by conserving water.
State Rep. Bill White encourages Newton County 4-H Council
officers that they too can be elected officials in the future
Master Gardener’s planted a rain garden in front
of Smith Hall, Crowder in conjunction with the
Environmental Resource Center to beautify the
Extension Office.
4-H alum Senator Claire McCaskill answers questions from the
Missouri 4-H delegates in the Capitol.
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Newton County Extension Council
Chairman
Ronald Hoyez, District 2
Vice Chairman
John E. Littlefield, District 1
Secretary
Shiela Littlefield, District 1
Treasurer
Kimberly Bates, District 2
Other Members:
Meghann L. Winchester, District 1
Bryan Reiboldt, District 2
Angel Roller, District 2
Matt Rowe, District 2
Eldon Freeland, District 1
Lynn Jenkins, District 1
Tracy White, District 2
Jackie Hoyez, District 2
Katha Lynn Winchester, District 1
Jack Sanders, Newton County Commissioner
Jared Hyder, MFA Appointed Member
Sheri Farmer, Farm Bureau Appointed Member
Kathy Wright, District 1
Jerry Christian, District 2
Unique partnership
Newton County’s University Extension
County Council is a full partner with
Missouri's land-grant universities to deliver high-quality education and researchbased information that helps people solve
real-world problems and take advantage of
opportunities. Council members:

Work with extension specialists to
provide the county with quality
educational programs

Manage finances of local extension
operations

Provide personnel to carry out
extension activities

Elect and organize the local
extension council.
The Newton County
Extension Council honors
MATT ROWE
&
JERRY CHRISTIAN
Back Row L-R: Eldon Freeland, Ron Hoyez, John Littlefield, Matt
Rowe
Front Row L-R: Jackie Hoyez, Katha Winchester, Sheila Littlefield
for their passion for Newton
County, Extension and for the
lives of their fellow citizens.
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2011
State, Federal and County
Funding for Extension
University Extension programs in Newton
County are funded by Newton County, state and
federal appropriations. Local funding for support
of the Newton County Extension Center is
provided by the Newton County Commission.
They provide office space, funds for office expenses, clerical salaries and travel expenses of
extension specialists who conduct programs in
Newton County.
A special acknowledgement and appreciation is
given to the Newton County Commissioners and
the citizens of Newton County for financial assistance.
Marilyn Ruestman — Presiding Commissioner
Jerry Black — District 1 Commissioner
Jack Sanders — District 2 Commissioner*
2011 Budget
REVENUE
County Appropriations
TOTAL REVENUE
$ 50,538
$ 50,583
EXPENSES
Office Personnel
Youth Assistant
Payroll Expenses
Travel
Rent
Postage
Telephone
Supplies and Service
Insurance—Bond
Equipment and Maintenance
TOTAL EXPENSES
$ 21,000
$ 7,578
$ 3,030
$ 6,000
$ 4,400
$ 200
$ 1,350
$ 3,300
$ 525
$ 4,400
$ 51,783
* Newton County MU Extension Council Member
University of Missouri’s
Contribution to County Extension
Program
University of Missouri provides salaries and
benefits for two professional and two
para-professional staff members. While Lincoln
University provides the salary and benefits for
one professional staff member.
The University provides training expenses,
postage and matching funds for communication,
computer equipment costs and maintenance.
Newton County Extension Center
Neosho, Mo. 64850
(417) 455-9500 Fax: 455-9505
Website: http://extension.missouri.edu/newton/
Office Hours: Mon—Fri., 8 a.m. to 4 :30 p.m.
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2011 Newton County MU Extension Council Annual Report