Extension’s “Walk Across Texas” Shows Results
Fall is definitely a busy time of year! And what better incentive is there to acquire some physical activity than cooler weather? Most people who aren’t able to run, lift weights, or participate in strenuous activity can walk. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension’s program, “Walk Across Texas,” is making an impact in Hopkins County! This is an initiative to encourage individuals to build a habit of regular walking.
Walk Across Texas is currently going through some revisions to make it even better! However, the impact is impressive for individuals who have participated in 2018. Here’s a brief overview:
· Number of Hopkins County teams: 19
· Number of participants: 147
· Total miles logged: 15,210.81
· Economic impact: $107,165 (based on health care cost savings and ability to avoid or delay diabetes if regular physical activity continues)
I want to invite parents who have students at Douglass Early Childhood Learning Center to participate in the upcoming “Walk & Talk” series, which is a spin-off of Walk Across Texas. We’ll meet each week in the cafeteria for a brief food demonstration, program, or hands-on activity, then proceed outdoors (weather permitting) to walk together. Each session will last about an hour (includes program and walking), so it won’t interfere with other activities. Each week, miles will be logged, and at the wrap-up in late November, every participant will be recognized and prizes awarded to the top walker and team. Incentive items which correspond with the topic will be given each week. If you do not receive a flyer, ask for one from the school. This will be a great way to get in shape for the upcoming holidays, and form a healthy habit for yourself and your family!
Other groups, organizations, churches, and businesses who would like information on starting a team may contact our office and we’ll be glad to provide you with information!
National 4-H Week Rapidly Approaching
Each year, the nation’s largest youth organization celebrates the importance of YOUth during National 4-H Week. The week of October 7-13 has been designated as the time to celebrate –H and promote involvement. Hopkins County will kick off the celebration on Monday, October 1, with a reading of the proclamation by Judge Robert Newsom on the courthouse steps at 4:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served, and Extension staff, 4-H members, and leaders will be on hand to answer questions and distribute information about our local 4-H program. Registration information will also be available for any youth grades 3 thru 12.
Also starting on November 1, 4-H members may register entries for the 4-H Project Show at the Extension Office. Entry categories are: crafts, holiday corner, art, needlework, clothing, decorated accessories, general sewing, jewelry, woodworking, leather crafts, scrapbooks, metal work, baked goods, food preservation, horticulture, photography, and poetry. Age divisions are: Clover Kids (ages 5-7), Juniors (grades 3-5), Intermediates (grades 6-8), and Seniors (grades 9-12). Entries will be judged on Friday, October 5 and on display to the public during National 4-H Week, October 7-13, at the Extension Office.
Another event taking place during National 4-H Week is the annual fall 4-H Paper Clover Campaign at Tractor Supply, Inc. The campaign runs October 3-14. A 4-H exhibit will be set up in the store, and 4-H members will be on hand to answer questions and assist shoppers in carrying out their purchases. Shoppers are encouraged to donate an extra dollar at check-out, with a portion of the proceeds going to our Hopkins County 4-H program. This is a national endeavor, and we always appreciate the opportunity to participate in the Paper Clover Campaign and the support of the local Tractor Supply.
Fall Festival Creative Arts Contest
I hope you read about the 2018 Hopkins County Fall Festival Creative Arts Contest and the Arts & Crafts Show. These are two of the highlights of the Fall Festival, but I might be partial because I’m in charge of both of them! Calls have been coming in about both events, so there seems to be a lot of interest. Both events will take place Friday and Saturday, October 26 and 27, at the Sulphur Springs High School.
The Creative Arts contest provides the opportunity to enter items for judging (think State Fair of Texas on a smaller scale). There are 14 entry categories and 4 age groups, so there are plenty of opportunities for all! The Arts & Crafts Show allows individuals to sell their hand-made items to the public. This is a great chance to do some early Christmas shopping for that one-of-a-kind item. As of this writing, a few indoor spaces remain for anyone wishing to sell their items. Spaces under the outside covered walkway are also available. Contact our office at 903-885-3443 for more information, or go to the Hopkins County Fall Festival website to download forms. Several other Fall Festival activities will be taking place that same weekend, so don’t miss out on the fun!
Closing Thought
If you can read this, thank a teacher – Bill Gates
