July – Lots of Good Things Coming!
June is over and July is here! Where has the time gone? The 8th annual “Kids’ Camp: Fun, Food, Fitness” was another huge success and the survey results proved that the camp participants learned some facts that many adults do not know. Examples: “How many steps equal 1 mile?, How many food groups should be included in breakfast?, Nuts and eggs are part of which food group?” I hope you saw the pictures in the Wednesday, June 27 edition of the Sulphur Springs News Telegram. Campers had a great time learning while having fun!
There are two more youth camps in July (multi-county 4-H camp, and Skills Camp), along with the Community Health Talks series, which was featured on the front page of the June 21 edition of the Sulphur Springs News Telegram. We’ve received a lot of feedback, but it is NOT too late to reserve a seat! The more attendees we have, the better the discussions. We want individuals to ask questions, provide feedback, and join in on the face-to-face discussions. Please let us know if you plan to attend so we can make adequate preparations. The sessions are free of charge. Below are the details, so please make plans to join us!
- Friday, July 6, Community Health Talks #1: Topic is Animal and Human Health. Dr. Leah Larsen will discuss diseases affecting pets and vectors which could have repercussions with humans, such as rabies. Danielle Altenbaumer, from the Department of State Health Services, will help clear up the confusion about human vaccinations – what, who, and when certain vaccinations should be given.
- Friday, July 13, Community Health Talks #2: The topic is Food and Food Safety, led by Brad Fain, of Zoetis Animal Health. He’ll discuss food security and the safety of our food supply. Information on safe food handling, Texas Cottage Food Laws, and other pertinent topics will be available. This session would be of particular benefit to those who choose to sell homemade food items at Farmer’s Markets, festivals, and other special events. Know the laws and keep your foods safe!
Both sessions will take place at 6:30 p.m. at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Hopkins County Office, 1200 W. Houston Street, in Sulphur Springs. Refreshments will be available. The Community Health Talks series was suggested and planned by our Extension Leadership Advisory Board, and we hope to have a great turnout! Please call our office at 903-885-3443 to sign up, or if you have questions. Listen to KSST Radio at 8:15 a.m. on Thursday, July 5th for more information.
Twogether in Texas Marriage Education Workshop
Three times every year, this workshop equips couples with information to help strengthen their marriage. Engaged couples gain an added benefit by receiving a certificate to save $60 upon applying for a marriage license. The workshop is free of charge, and feedback has been very good. This will be the final workshop for 2018, so if you or someone you know will be getting married, take advantage of this opportunity! Below are the details.
- When: Saturday, August 25
- Time: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Where: Hopkins County AgriLife Extension Office, 1200 W. Houston, Sulphur Springs
- Topics: Marriage expectations – What are some expectations that you bring to the marriage, whether spoken or unspoken? What about chores, children, finances, career? These are topics that will be explored. Communication – What is your specific communication style? How can your strengthen dialogue with your partner? Conflict Resolution – This is a big topic! Learn how to communicate to resolve conflict. Explore some tips to make conflict more manageable, ultimately resulting in resolution. Money Management – What does money mean to you – success, security, fun? Do you have a budget? Explore how easily money slips through your fingers. Have a management plan to account for your hard-earned money. Dreams & Goals – What do you want your marriage to look like 10, 15, 25 or more years down the road? What are some of your dreams and goals? This section will end with a touching video that will encourage you to set goals.
At the conclusion of the workshop, engaged couples will receive a certificate to submit to the county clerk’s office to save $60 on a marriage license. The certificate is good for one year, so even if you aren’t getting married until May or June of 2019, the certificate is still good – just don’t lose it! I forgot to mention that the workshop is free of charge! Refreshments, coffee, and water will be available all day, and lunch will be provided by the Hopkins County Master Wellness Volunteers.
Other workshops are already scheduled for 2019, so if the August date is not convenient, you may jot these dates down and call me as the time gets closer: Saturday, February 9, Saturday, May 18, Saturday, August 24. Strong marriage make strong families. Strong families make strong communities, and strong communities make a strong society.
Closing Thought
Learn to pray – it’s easy and good for your soul! Chris Pratt
Johanna Hicks
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
Family & Consumer Sciences
1200-B W. Houston
P.O.Box 518
Sulphur springs, TX 75483
903-885-3443 – phone
903-439-4909 – Fax
[email protected]
