sign in sign up
<<
Home , Bed bug

University of Nebraska - Lincoln DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln

The NEBLINE Newsletter Archive from UNL Extension in Lancaster County Extension

2-2011

The NEBLINE, February 2011

Follow this and additional works at: https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/neblines

"The NEBLINE, February 2011" (2011). The NEBLINE Newsletter Archive from UNL Extension in Lancaster County. 248. https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/neblines/248

This Article is brought to you for free and open access by the Extension at DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln. It has been accepted for inclusion in The NEBLINE Newsletter Archive from UNL Extension in Lancaster County by an authorized administrator of DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln. University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension in Lancaster County

® Know how. Know now. The

® February 2011 EBLINE 444 Cherrycreek Rd., SuiteN A, Lincoln, NE 68528 • (402) 441-7180 • http://lancaster.unl.edu Got Bed Bugs? Don’t Panic! There are Steps You Can Take bed bugs into the hospital. People who treat, they have application equipment Barb Ogg are getting ready to travel want to know that allows them to treat cracks and UNL Extension Educator how to prevent bringing bed bugs crevices, and they can purchase prod- home. Landlords want to know what ucts not available in hardware stores. One thing I’ve learned with the works; sometimes they ask about taking The very last thing I want is to have latest resurgence, is not all applicator training so they can someone misuse a product and get sick. Typical bed bug spots and smears on a are treated alike. Some do their own treatments. Many over-the-counter products are . pests get no respect ... still harmful and must be used and termites carefully. fit into that category. The following steps will be Never mind German helpful for people who suspect cockroaches can carry they have bed bugs. I have also thousands, if not millions included suggestions for people of on their bodies, who do not have the resources to including salmonella, Vicki by Jedlicka, Photos UNL Extension hire a control company and shigella, staphylococcus, Bedbugs are reddish Immediately after feeding, bed may wish to tackle the problem and E. coli. Termites do brown and have bugs are bright red and have an themselves. millions of dollars worth flattened bodies engorged and elongated body 1. First, make sure you of damage to structures (magnified view). (magnified view with pin head). have bed bugs. Search for every year. Educational bed bugs in and around the bed. programs about cock- At left — approximate size. Take the mattress off the bed Photos by Barb Ogg, UNL Extension by Photos roaches and termites are and flip over the box springs. Bed bug spots and eggs under the fabric very important to people This is the most likely place stapled to the framing of box springs. who have to deal with them. But, most The most frustrating calls come you’ll find bed bugs. Tear off the dust of the time, ordinary folks don’t pay from low-income people living in high- cover and look where pieces of wood much attention. density housing who have bed bugs. are nailed together. Lift where fabric Bed bugs are different. The mere In Nebraska, like other states, it is the is stapled to the wood framing ... bed thought of small insects sneaking out responsibility of landlords to provide a bugs like to live in tight places like this. of hiding places and feeding on our pest-free environment for their tenants. If people on the sofa at night, it during the night gets everyone’s But, because bed bugs are hard to also may be infested. Take or send the attention. With the exception of senior control, treatments are expensive and bed bugs to an expert who can identify citizens who remember life before not all landlords are willing to spend them. The University of Nebraska– WWII, most of us have never grown up the money necessary for eradication. Lincoln Extension in Lancaster County with bed bugs. Those of us who have Because must be treated, offers free pest diagnostic services. The grown up in such a sanitary world, are pesticide applications must be done public can bring samples to the office totally unprepared for bed bugs. carefully. I generally recommend people at 444 Cherrycreek Road, Lincoln) A major reason for all the media hire a professionals who can Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Bed bugs (adult and nymphs) under dust cover attention is bed bugs are hard to do the best treatment and do it safely. If you don’t find bed bugs, you of sofa where fabric was stapled to the frame. control. Researchers have found Advantages of hiring pest control probably don’t have them. I have most bed bug populations (88%) are professionals is they have experience in talked to many people who claim they resistant to pyrethrin and treating bed bugs and know where to are being bitten, but cannot find bed 2. If bed bugs have been identified products. Many professional-use and bugs. My conclusion is something else and you rent, talk to your landlord. If he over-the-counter products are either is going on which may be a medical decides to hire a pest control professional to treat pyrethroid or pyrethrins, even those problem or skin disorder. Allergic reac- your home, you’ll need to be as cooperative as with the words Bed Bug prominently tions to environmental substances, like possible to help solve this problem. You should displayed on the label. Because of this detergents or personal care products, know the pest control professional will apply resistance, pest control professionals can sometimes look like insect bites. In but will not do the rest of the steps cannot usually eradicate bed bugs with the wintertime, itchiness can be caused given below. These are actions you must take to a single treatment. It will take two or by dry skin. Bed bugs are not seasonal help eradicate bed bugs. three very thorough treatments to and do not come and go. An 3. If you find bed bugs during your control bed bugs. When bed bugs are starts slowly with just a few bites and search, use a vacuum cleaner to suck well-entrenched in a home or there is a gets worse as time progresses. them up. This is a very important step in clutter problem, eradication may not be There is a wide range of bite reducing the bed bug population right away achieved even after five treatments. reactions. About 20% of people have no and more effective than chemicals. When most Almost every workday, I get phone reaction to the bites at all. Some people people hear the word vacuuming, they think calls about bed bugs. These phone calls get a red spot on their body that does of vacuuming carpets. While bed bugs can be

are from pest control professionals Barb Ogg, UNL Extension by Photo not . Other people have bites that found in carpets, they are most likely to be wanting to “pick my brain” to find out Pest control professionals have become inflamed and itchy. More severe found in cracks and crevices in and around the if there is something new that will help specialized application equipment to responses include large -like bed itself. Bed bugs leave tell-tale signs in places them do a better job. Other callers are treat cracks and crevices where bed reactions that are painfully itchy. Some where they hide; look for spots and smears, and hospital administrators, trying to figure bugs live. In this photo, the interior of unfortunate individuals react to bed vacuum those places thoroughly. out what to do when a patient brings a box spring is being treated. bugs with and even . see BED BUGS on next page

IN THIS ISSUE Environmental Focus . . . . 2 Watch Chicks Farm Views ...... 3 Food & Fitness ...... 4 Hatch Online Home & Family Living . . . . . 5

Horticulture ...... 6 with EGG Cam!

Lincoln, Nebraska 68528-1507 Nebraska Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska Lincoln,

4 4 4 Cherrycreek Road, Suite A Suite Road, Cherrycreek 4 4 4

Permit No. 537 No. Permit Urban Agriculture . . . . . 7 http://lancaster.unl.edu/­

Extension in Lancaster County Lancaster in Extension

U.S. Postage Paid Postage U.S. CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED SERVICE CHANGE

Univer sity of Nebraska–Lincoln of sity Univer Non-Profit Or ganization Or Non-Profit 4-H ...... 8–9 4h/Embryology

Lancaster County 4-H Council 4-H County Lancaster Community Focus . . . . .10 The NEBLINE Page 2 http://lancaster.unl.edu Environmental Focus February 2011

spread bed bugs in other places bed bugs from living there. you, place encased Bed Bugs in your home or apartment Encasements also make bed mattress/box springs on a simple continued from previous page building. Do not reuse these bugs easier to see and vacuum. metal frame and pull the bed Tear the bed apart and use a bags. If there are important items Both mattress and box springs away from the wall. If you have a crevice tool to vacuum bed bugs you want to keep, place them in should be encased, but the box headboard, remove it and store you find. Bed bugs can often be sealed garbage bags until you spring encasement is generally it until the infestation is over found in the space created where have time to deal with them. more important because more or discard it. Remove bed skirts the carpet meets the baseboard. Any item that has been in the bed bugs will live there. Mattress and that might serve as Vacuum this area thoroughly. could have a bed bug encasements must be fabric, not a bridge. Place each bed leg in a Remove electrical outlet covers; inside. Bed bugs have been found vinyl or plastic that rip easily. ClimbUp® insect interceptor (see if you find signs or bugs, care- in purses, cell phones, clock Two brands that have been tested photo at left) or a plastic dish fully vacuum. Vacuuming should radios, and pictures on the wall. against bed bugs are Protect- containing ClimbUp® insect interceptors be done weekly or even more Items you want to keep that A-Bed™ and Sentry™. They and talcum powder (50/50). may help prevent bed bugs from frequently, until the bed bugs might be infested must be treated are expensive and cost $60–$90 crawling up the legs of bed legs. are gone. As you go through in some way. Heat or freezing are for each piece, depending on Reference to commercial products or trade the following steps, have your options. Another way is to keep the size of your bed and where names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and vacuum ready to suck up bed these items sealed in the plastic you purchase them. These are control companies or through no endorsement by the University of bugs you find. After vacuuming, bag at room temperature for 6–9 not readily available locally, but the Internet. Nebraska–Lincoln is implied. immediately place the vacuum months. can be purchased through pest To prevent bed bugs from bag in a plastic bag, seal it, and 6. Start bagging wash- discard it in an outdoor trash able clothing and linens to receptacle or freeze it overnight. launder them. Washing and/ What About tive against bed bugs. There specifically says you can do 4. Make a decision or drying kills bed bugs. Wash in has been a recent explosion this. about what to do with warm water with regular laundry Chemicals? of products coming on the • Do not treat linens with any infested items, specifically detergent. Dry clothing for 30 I think it is best to let market claiming to control bed . the mattress, box springs, minutes on medium heat. If pest control professionals do bugs, but not all of these prod- • Do not buy and use over-the- and upholstered furniture. you cannot wash an item, like a chemical treatments; after all, ucts have actually been tested counter foggers (i.e., bombs). Sofas are generally more difficult wool coat, you can still kill bed they are trained and licensed against bed bugs. You should These do not work against to treat than beds, so discarding a bugs by drying it for 30 minutes. to do these treatments safely. choose a product that has an bed bugs. sofa might be a wise move. Mark Laundry does not have to be They also have access to EPA registration number on • Do not buy and use over- or deface it in some way so it is done all at once, but you must professional-use products not the label. the-counter aerosols. They not picked up by some unsus- do this methodically so you don’t readily available. Some locations can be best are expensive for what you pecting dumpster diver. Some put clean (bed bug-free) clothing As I mentioned earlier, bed treated with dust formulations, buy and do not work very have metal grommets back into dresser drawers where bugs are resistant to pyrethroid like in wall voids, behind elec- well. on the sides that reinforce bed bugs might be hiding. and pyrethrin insecticides and trical receptacles, and switch • Do not even consider using a handles. These grommet holes 7. If you are lucky these are the most common plates. Diatomaceous earth chemical that does not have are large enough for bed bugs to enough to have a garage over-the-counter products has shown to give good results, an insecticide label. There enter and live inside the mattress. or another place away available. These products may although it is not very fast have been news reports of The inside of these mattresses from your home, you can kill bed bugs, but you will need acting. This can be purchased fires started when flammable cannot be treated and must take bagged items from the to find and directly treat all at hardware stores or online. It liquids have been used to kill either be encased or thrown bedroom to this staging the locations where bed bugs can be placed in many loca- bed bugs. away. area. Items must be de-bugged are hiding. There will be no tions where bed bugs hide and • Do not buy or use . 5. The next important before you return them. A long-lasting residual control is safe for use on mattresses. It does not work for bed step is to get rid of all rental unit can be used for this after the insecticide is dry. So, bugs. Boric acid is useful for extraneous stuff in the purpose. In the winter, items can if you choose to do treatments What NOT to do control because bedroom. You need to start be taken outdoors, if it is very yourself, you need to use these • Do not use any product that roaches groom themselves doing this as soon as you can cold. This might kill bed bugs, if products as contact treatments. isn’t labeled for indoor use. and boric acid is a slow- after you know you have bed temperatures are cold enough. Right now, this is the trick to • Do not spray the mattress acting stomach poison. Bed bugs. It is extremely important One researcher suggests four eradicating bed bugs. Spraying with any product unless it bugs cannot ingest it. because the more “stuff” you days at 23°F. In the summertime, insecticides along baseboards have near where you sleep, bed bugs can be killed in vehicles and on the legs of the bed the more hiding places you when the interior temperature won’t do much to control a bed When Using Any Insecticide, Be Sure To: are providing for bed bugs. gets over 120°F. bug infestation. Read, understand, and follow label directions. Use personal Simplifying the bedroom also 8. If you have the Over-the-counter products protective equipment as the label directs. Wear long sleeves, makes treatments more effective. money, you can encase claiming to be “green” or pants, and shoes. Keep insecticides out of the reach of children. Place items to be discarded in your mattress and box safe may not be very effec- heavy garbage bags so you don’t springs, which will prevent Now’s the Time to Build Bird Nest Boxes and Shelves provides some protection from Soni Cochran cold spring rains. UNL Extension Associate Exit Stairway: To help the baby birds learn to get out of In only a month or so, birds the nest box, roughen the inside will soon be choosing their portion of the hole just under favorite nesting sites. Are you the entrance. This can be done ready? This is a great time to by sawing grooves or punching prepare for spring by building holes like a stairway with a birdhouses and shelves to help “Add-a-story” screwdriver. Nest bracket for robins Accessible nest box Rustic box Martin house attract your favorite backyard Accessibility: Make sure and swallows birds. It is important to get your your nest boxes and shelves are houses and shelves made and are easy woods to work with any nest box and don’t paint the easy to inspect. This will help hung up before the birds begin your houses up by March to and weather well. Consider entrance hole. you keep the nest boxes clean. arriving so start building now. attract wood ducks and owls. reusing unfinished scrap woods Drainage & Ventilation: Clean boxes are more likely to be Decide what birds you American kestrels choose their from other projects. Galvanized Drill a few small holes in the used by birds. want to attract. Find out nest sites in February — you or aluminum nails work best bottom of your nest boxes. This what birds live in your area and better hurry! because they don’t rust. Nails helps with drainage. You should FOR MORE what they need for a nesting Materials: Birdhouses with roughened shanks are better also leave ½-inch gaps or drill INFORMATION site. American robins and barn can be made from a variety than smooth nails. Screws work holes along the top of the sides UNL Extension NebGuide swallows use shelves as nest of materials including wood, better than nails. to help with ventilation. “Backyard Wildlife: Birdhouses sites. Black-capped chickadees, PVC pipe, or natural items like Paint: If you use durable Entrance Holes: Birds and Shelves” (G2002) provides wrens, bluebirds, woodpeckers, gourds. Gourds are easy to grow, cedar, you won’t need to paint can be very picky about their detailed information on the size and purple martins are cavity attractive backyard plants. With your birdhouses. If you choose entrance holes. Certain birds nest box you need for several dwellers and will use nest boxes. a little planning and care, you another type of wood, use an need specific-sized entrances. species of Nebraska birds, entrance hole dimensions, and These birdhouses need to be in can grow your crop this year and exterior latex paint. Natural Do not make an outside perch. preferred placement of the nest place by April. If you live near a have beautiful gourds to work on tones like light brown, gray or The birds don’t need them and box or shelf. You’ll also find tips park, large green space, pond, or next winter. dull green are generally the best all you are doing is helping to help you attract each bird. on an acreage or farm, you may Any good, solid, unfinished colors. The exception is Purple make a spot for predators to This NebGuide is available at be able to attract wood ducks, wood is generally the best Martin houses. These houses sit. In Nebraska, hang your bird the extension office or online at owls, or even American kestrels construction material for bird are painted white to reflect the houses with the entrance facing http://lancaster.unl.edu/pest. with the right nest boxes. Get houses. Cedar, pine, and poplar heat. Never paint the interior of southeast or northeast. This The NEBLINE Page 3 http://lancaster.unl.edu Farm Views February 2011

Designing a Windbreak Private Pesticide enhance wildlife, provide snow protec- to reduce wind speed. Tall Don Janssen tion for humans and livestock, and deciduous trees extend the Retired UNL Extension Educator provide wind protection to dwellings in area of wind protection with Applicator both winter and summer. Windbreaks their height. Shrubs trap snow, The best designs for windbreaks also prevent soil erosion caused by wind add beauty to the windbreak, depend on their intended purpose and and reduce water runoff from agricul- and provide wildlife habitat. Certification the characteristics of the site where they tural lands. Typical windbreaks consist The area protected by Federal and state law says a private pesticide will be located. of conifers, deciduous trees, and shrubs. a windbreak is determined applicator must be certified and licensed to buy, Windbreaks can be planted to Conifers provide dense foliage by the windbreak’s average use, or supervise the use of a Restricted-Use height. Generally, windbreaks Pesticide (RUP) to produce an agricultural protect an area 10 to 15 times commodity on property they own or rent — or the average height of the trees. — on an employer’s property if the applicator is Windward tree rows should an employee of the farmer. No pesticide license be located approximately is needed if the applicator will only be applying 150 to 250 feet upwind of General Use (GUPs) or if you hire a the protected area in order to commercial applicator to apply RUPs to your allow for snow deposition. property. Windbreaks are most If you do not have a current private pesticide

USDA-SCS effective when planted certification and you plan to buy or apply any perpendicular to prevailing RUP products, you will need to receive the same winds. Windbreaks for winter certification training as described below for people protection should be located who need to be recertified. All training sessions on the north and west side meet the requirements for both initial certification of the farmstead. Summer or recertification as private pesticide applicators. A basic windbreak consists of three to eight rows of both conifers and deciduous wind protection is provided If your private applicator certification trees. Conifers or shrubs should be located on the windward side with the tall by planting on the south and expires in 2010, you will receive (or have already deciduous species in the center. A row of shrubs on the interior side completes east sides of the farmstead. received) a notification letter from the Nebraska the design. The number of tree rows and Department of Agriculture (NDA). Be sure to keep the plant species used will be the letter from NDA and bring it with you to the determined by the intended training session you choose or when you pick up purposes of the individual home-study materials. The NDA letter contains a windbreak and the amount of bar-code form which tells NDA what they need to USDA-SCS space available. Typical wind- know about you. breaks include two or more Regardless of the certification method chosen, rows of conifers and one or all applicants will receive an invoice from the NDA more rows each of deciduous for the $25 license fee. Note: we cannot collect the 3-6 row windbreak trees and shrubs. Windbreaks license fee at the extension office. The certification with two legs or one planted and license is good for three years, expiring on wildlife food plot on two sides of the protected April 15, 2013 for those who certify this spring. You area will provide better protec- should receive your new license within three weeks. tion than a planting on one side Private pesticide applicators will have four only. alternative methods to obtain either recertification machine Assistance with windbreak planning or initial certification. shed and design is available from Nebraska Forest Service District Foresters, Traditional Training Sessions, Natural Resource Conservation Service Jan 27, 29, & Feb. 2 offices, Natural Resource District offices, Three private pesticide applicator training and local extension offices. sessions have been scheduled in 2011 at the house Lancaster Extension Education Center, 444 FOR MORE Cherrycreek Road in Lincoln. INFORMATION The dates and times are: UNL Extension publication 2 row secondary windbreak • Thursday, Jan. 27, from 8:30–11:30 a.m. “How Windbreaks Work,” • Saturday, Jan. 29, from 8:30–11:30 a.m. (EC 1763) at www.ianrpubs. unl.edu/sendIt/ec1763.pdf • Wednesday, Feb. 2, from 6:30–9:30 p.m. and NebGuide “Windbreak A $30 extension training fee will be collected at Design,” (G-1304) www. the training session (make checks out to Lancaster The windbreak should be oriented perpendicular to the prevailing wind ianrpubs.unl.edu/sendIt/ County Extension). g1304.pdf. Both are available directions. Because of wind turbulence around the end of a windbreak, the at the extension office. Self-Study Option windbreak should extend 100 to 200 feet beyond the area needing protection. The second option is to pick up the self-study book and associated materials at the extension office. You are expected to read the chapters, then you must answer the written test questions in the Financial Recordkeeping Training, March 3 back of the book. When you bring the book back to the office, the test will be graded by our staff while One of the most tasks being demon- you wait (usually about five minutes). You will have popular in-depth extension strated. Many folks an opportunity to see the test results and see the programs, a Computerized comment the handouts correct answers to any questions you have missed. Farm Financial are one of the best The $60 training fee for this method of Recordkeeping Training, aspects of the training. obtaining certification will be collected when the will be offered Thursday, Registration fee: home-study book is picked up. March 3, 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. • One person at a at the Lancaster Extension computer; including a Testing Option Education Center, 444 meal and set of hand- The third option is to take a written (closed- Cherrycreek Road in outs — cost $50. book) examination given by the NDA. Please Lincoln. Pre-register before • Two people at a contact NDA at (402) 471-2394 for dates of testing. Feb. 18. Preregistration computer; with two There is no training fee if you choose this option. with payment is required to meals and one set of You will need to pay the $25 license fee. You should hold a spot. handouts — cost $60. receive your new license within two weeks after you The concepts taught • Bring your own receive a passing grade on your written test. in this training are applicable to sitting at computers performing computer with Quicken Deluxe several inexpensive computerized the tasks being demonstrated. (2011) installed and save $10. Certify at a Crop Production recordkeeping software programs, To save time, much of the For a brochure with detailed Clinic with slight modifications in proce- instruction on generating reports information and registration form, Private applicators may receive initial certifica- dure. This training will be taught will be done using sample data files visit the extension office, go to tion or recertification by attending one of exten- hands-on using Quicken Deluxe created to represent a typical crop http://lancaster.unl.edu/ag and look sion’s Crop Production Clinics held in January. in the classroom. All instruction and livestock farming operation. under “Upcoming Workshops,” This year’s clinics will be over by the time this will be presented in a hands-on Participants will receive step-by- or call (402) 441-7180. Space is Nebline is published. teaching style with participants step written instructions for all limited, so register early! The NEBLINE Page 4 http://lancaster.unl.edu Food & Fitness February 2011

Chocolatea “Functional” Food? “There are four basic food groups: milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate and chocolate truffles.” Alice Henneman, MS, RD, UNL Extension Educator “Equal amounts of dark choco- late and white chocolate is a This recipe provides you with chocolate plus dairy AND fruit. balanced diet.” Enjoy! Recipe courtesy of 3-A-Day of Dairy (www.3aday.org) and “Chocolate is cheaper than Bugwood.org provided by Jennifer Meyer, RD, LMNT, Dairy Council of Nebraska. therapy and you don’t need an appointment.” Cocoa-Berry Yogurt Tarts (Makes 6 servings. Prep time: 10 minutes) A functional food is a food that contains an active 1-1/2 cups low-fat vanilla yogurt compound that provides health 1-1/2 cups reduced-fat ricotta cheese

benefits beyond basic nutrition. APHIS PPQ, Cesar Calderon, USDA 2 tablespoons sugar Protein, fat, carbohydrates, Cocoa seeds (beans) in a cacao pod. 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder vitamins, and minerals are the 6 graham cracker tart shells basic nutritional needs but 3/4 cup strawberries, sliced (raspberries or blueberries other components in food also also can be used) contribute to your health. Directions: Mix yogurt, ricotta, sugar, and cocoa powder thoroughly with whisk until creamy. Spoon 1/6 mixture into Chocolate each tart shell and top with sliced strawberries. Chocolate refers to a large number of raw and processed http://commons.wikimedia.org Nutritional Facts Per Serving: Calories: 260; Total Fat: 9 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Cholesterol: 20 mg; Sodium: 250 mg; Calcium: 20% Daily Value; Protein: 9 g; foods produced from the seed

Carbohydrates: 37 g; Dietary Fiber: 3 g (bean) of the Theobroma cacoa http://commons.wikimedia.org tree found in Mexico, Central, Blair, Blair, David Monniaux, Alice’s Tips: and South America. It was first Cocoa solids Cocoa butter 1. This recipe also tastes delicious spooned directly into a serving documented around 1100 B.C. dish and topped with berries. Dress it up for an elegant meal by The Aztecs and Mayans sugar and more liquor than The amount of the anti- serving it in a fancy glass. made a chocolate beverage that semisweet chocolate but the oxidant flavanol compounds 2. If you have extra ricotta cheese after making this recipe, you can had a bitter taste. The Aztecs terms bittersweet and semisweet, in chocolate products depends blend equal portions of ricotta cheese and yogurt in a blender used chocolate for ceremonial are used interchangeably. on the type of chocolate and or food processor until smooth to make a base for dips. purposes and believed chocolate Semisweet chocolate is dark the processing method. Dutch- had medicinal properties. Cacao chocolate with low sugar content. processed cocoa will have lower beans also were used as a form Milk chocolate is made by levels of antioxidants. Dark of currency. The Spanish, who adding sugar and milk powder or chocolate is higher in these visited the Aztecs, brought condensed milk to cocoa butter compounds, whereas white chocolate to Europe and it was and cocoa liquor. chocolate is very low in antioxi- Rescue Dinner Time considered a luxury item. White chocolate is made dant flavanol compounds. The modern chocolate bar from sugar, cocoa butter, and Cocoa butter contains stearic by Planning Ahead with added sugar was created in milk solids. White chocolate does acid and small amounts of plant 1847. Prior to this, chocolate was not contain cocoa liquor. sterols. Studies on stearic acid most of the stress out of the only consumed as a drink. The from chocolate demonstrated a way. This allows you to buy all Dutch removed the cocoa butter Storage of Chocolate neutral cholesterolemic response the groceries you will need for from the solids and then were Chocolate is sensitive to in people who consumed the those meals with one trip to the able to process chocolate in a temperature and humidity. Store chocolate-enriched diet, which grocery store. A fun way to plan solid form. chocolate between 59 and 63°F in was high in saturated fat. is making a theme for each night The addi- low humidity. Chocolate can The fat and sugar content of Helping limited-resource families learn of the week. This doesn’t mean tion of sugar absorb aromas from other chocolate does increase calories to prepare nutritious and safe foods have a party every night, but just helped mask the foods. Keep chocolates associated with chocolate while stretching their food dollars. something your family learns to natural bitter flavor. wrapped to prevent consumption. The addition of know and can get excited about Through the centu- absorption of milk to chocolate products may Dana Willeford knowing what foods you will be ries, chocolate was moisture and be of concern to people who are UNL Extension Assistant having. For example: Monday considered an aphrodi- aromas. lactose intolerant. Nuts may be could be soup night; Tuesday, siac, and was used to treat If added to chocolate products, “I don’t feel like cooking.” Mexican food; Wednesday, grill fatigue and diarrhea. chocolate and people allergic to tree nuts “We don’t have anything to eat.” night; Thursday, homemade is not of peanuts should avoid these “I ate a big lunch, I’m not pizza night, etc. Types of Chocolate stored properly, products. Read the ingredient hungry.” First, always check your Chocolate products it can “bloom.” This whitish label for added ingredients that “I don’t have time to cook.” pantry for what you already are made from cocoa solids, discoloration forms when the may cause a health problem. “Just heat up a frozen pizza.” have on-hand. The good thing cocoa liquor, and cocoa butter chocolate absorbs enough mois- Magnesium is a mineral about starting this way is the in varying proportions. Dark ture for the fat or sugar crystals found in significant amounts in Do these statements sound food is already there. Build your chocolate may contain up to 70 to rise to the surface. This bloom chocolate products. Low dietary familiar? Often mealtime means menus from there. Sometimes percent cocoa; milk chocolate is visually unappealing but the magnesium may be a risk factor stress for most families. Lack of it’s helpful to check the sale ads products contain less cocoa. chocolate is safe to eat. for hypertension, stroke, and time, lack of preparation, and or coupons. If you’re on a tight To develop the taste, cocoa High temperatures can cause cardiac arrhythmias. Women sometimes a tight budget can budget, make sure the most beans are fermented and dried, the chocolate to melt and change in the U.S. generally do not make planning not seem so fun. expensive part of the meal isn’t and the shell removed. The the crystals, causing a rougher meet the recommended dietary Thankfully it doesn’t have to be the biggest part of the meal. resulting nibs are ground into feel on the tongue. amount (RDA) for magnesium. that way. Once you have completed your cocoa liquor, which is processed A serving of milk chocolate (44 Whether your family week’s menus, always make a list into cocoa solids and cocoa Health Benefits of grams) provides 8 percent of consists of five people, two, or and don’t deviate from it. This butter. Chocolate the RDA, and a serving of dark one, everyone deserves good will help keep your budget in Unsweetened choco- Recently, compounds in chocolate provides 15 percent of food and dinner at the table! check. late, bitter chocolate, or chocolate have been found the RDA for magnesium. Milk The key to a consistent mealtime While you’re at the store, baking chocolate is pure to have health benefits, and chocolate products contribute is planning. Having a consistent keep in mind fresh fruits and chocolate liquor. chocolate sometimes is being calcium to the diet. dinner time ensures healthier vegetables in season will be a Dark chocolate is made referred to as a functional food. Source: University of Nebraska–Lincoln eating habits, saves time in the little cheaper. If you decide to by adding fat and sugar to cocoa Components in chocolate Extension publication “Chocolate – a kitchen, more money in your buy in bulk, make sure you have liquor and cocoa butter. Dark include antioxidant flavanol Functional Food?” (HEF599) by Julie pocket, and most importantly, the room to store foods and chocolate has a high cocoa compounds, such as catechins, A. Albrecht, Extension Food Specialist; allows family bonding. So no your family will be able to eat content. which reduce free radicals Carol J. Schwarz, Extension Educator; and Marilynn Schnepf, Professor, Nutrition more excuses, here are a few any perishable foods before they Bittersweet chocolate produced by oxidation, lower and Health Sciences. To read the complete ideas to make planning easier. expire or spoil. is chocolate liquor plus sugar, LDL cholesterol, reduce blood publication, go to http://www.ianrpubs. Planning your menus a When you get home, many cocoa butter, and vanilla. Usually pressure, and reduce platelet unl.edu/sendIt/hef599.pdf. week or two in advance gets see PLANNING on next page bittersweet chocolate has less aggregation. The NEBLINE Page 5 http://lancaster.unl.edu Home & Family Living February 2011

FAMILY & COMMUNITY EDUCATION (FCE) CLUBS

President’s View — Irene’s Items pictures, then on Jan. 24. These are your clubs. Irene Colborn to the drawers. It is Bring ideas for the Sizzling Lorene Bartos, UNL Extension Educator FCE Council Chair surprising what you Summer Sampler as well as might find. Next State Convention. In the January I might even Also, February Storing Linens Nebline was an get to the is Valentines Day, After the holidays, take a few simple steps to keep your article about closets. so remember the linens in fine shape for years to come. Always clean linens cleaning desks. Please significant other before storing to prevent stains and creases for setting. Do I took it seriously try to come or even service not starch before storing as starch may attract unwanted and started by going through to the Council Meeting personnel. insects. To store linens without unsightly creasing, roll them around empty paper towel or wrapping paper tubes or hang on hangers in the closet. FCE News & Events FCE Council Leader Training FCE Scholarship of Meeting, Jan. 24 Lesson, Jan. 26 Applications Due May 1 Opportunity vigatin The January Family The FCE and Community A $400 scholarship provided Na g & Community Education Leader Training Lesson by the Lancaster County FCE (FCE) Council meeting “Healthy Meal Planning on a Council is available for a graduate the Ocean is scheduled for Jan. 24, Budget” will be Wednesday, of a high school in Lancaster A W i n d o w of e 12:30 p.m. at the Lancaster Jan. 26, 1 p.m. at the Lancaster County or a permanent resident Child Car Extension Education Extension Education Center. of Lancaster County majoring in Center, 444 Cherrycreek UNL Extension Educator Alice Family and Consumer Science or a A conference for those Road. A soup luncheon Henneman will present the health occupation. This is open to who provide child care. will be held. Following the lesson. This lesson will teach full-time students beginning their In-service hours will be business meeting members participants to plan healthy, sophomore, junior, or senior year will make a Forever Card. delicious meals, consistent with of college in the fall of 2011, or given for this conference. All FCE members are the dietary guidelines, while who have completed two quarters invited to attend. Call on a limited budget. If you are of study in a vocational school. Saturday, March 26 (402) 441-7180 to register. not an FCE member and would Applications are available at the like to attend, call Pam at extension office and online at 8 a.m.–3:30 p.m. (402) 441-7180, so information http://lancaster.unl.edu/home/fce. Lancaster Extension Education Center packets can be prepared. Deadline is May 1. 444 Cherrycreek Road, Lincoln, NE For more information, call (402) 441-7180 Take Precautions to Avoid Carbon Monoxide Cost is $15 • Pre-registration is due March 18 Poisoning and Winter Fire Hazards When it comes to winter, with a shovel. Be careful not tipped over they will shut off. precautions need to be taken to shovel, plow or blow snow • Place space heater on solid, flat Time Most Important to avoid carbon monoxide up against the meter or a vent surface. poisoning and winter fire pipe. • Plug power cords directly hazards. • Install and maintain carbon into outlets and never into an for Valentine’s Day Carbon monoxide often is monoxide alarms to avoid risk extension cord. Looking to make a big compelled to try to impress called the silent killer because it of carbon monoxide poisoning. • Inspect for cracked, damaged, impression on your partner one another. This doesn’t is an invisible, odorless, colorless • Maintain heating equipment broken plugs, and loose on Valentine’s Day? It may be mean going overboard. Buying gas created when fuels, such as and chimneys by having them connections. Replace before cheaper than one thinks. Many someone flowers doesn’t always kerosene, gasoline, wood, coal, cleaned and inspected annually using. people think Valentine’s Day have to mean buying them roses. natural gas, propane, oil, and by a qualified professional. • Have a three-foot “kid-free means people have to spend Think about the person and methane, etc., burn incompletely. • If you need to warm a vehicle, zone” around open fires and money on each other. For many try to do something special for Carbon monoxide can result remove it from the garage space heaters. adult relationships, spending them. from faulty furnaces or other immediately after starting • Supervise children when a money on the significant other For children, Valentine’s Day heating appliances, portable it. Never run a vehicle or fireplace, fire pit, or other space is of less concern than spending is great fun. Making the bags for generators, water heaters, clothes other fueled engine or motor heater is being used. time. the candy and cards at school dryers, or cars left running in indoors, even if garage doors • Use a sturdy, metal screen to Older couples having spent provides excitement. Instead of garages. are open. Make sure the prevent contact burns, which several Valentine’s Days together buying store bought cards, see if Common symptoms of exhaust pipe of a running are even more common than realize the importance of just a child and a couple of his or her carbon monoxide poisoning vehicle is not blocked with flame burns. spending time together. It could friends would rather make their may include headache, nausea, snow, ice, or other materials. • All heaters need space. Keep just be as simple as planning own Valentine’s cards together. and drowsiness. Extremely high • Only use barbecue grills — things that can burn, such as a weekend trip together that Get some construction paper, levels of poisoning can be fatal, which can produce carbon paper, bedding or furniture, doesn’t have to include five-star scissors, glue and let the children causing death within minutes. monoxide — outside. Never at least three feet away from hotels or fancy restaurants. go at it. This will help promote Be especially alert during heavy use them in the home, garage, heating equipment. Or the duo could stay home, creativity while cutting back on ice and snow conditions in the porch, or near building • Use heating equipment that has prepare dinner together and the rising cost of manufactured heating season and extremely openings. the label of a recognized testing watch a movie. A younger cards. cold weather. • Follow the use and care laboratory. couple that doesn’t have the Source: Kathy Prochaska-Cue, Ph.D., To avoid carbon instructions when using • Never use the oven for heating. years of togetherness might feel UNL Family Economist monoxide poisoning, take portable generators during Many safety professionals these precautions: power outages. Safe use is warn against using any type of • Make sure all fuel-burning critical, so fumes do not enter portable space heaters indoors vented equipment — such as the home. due to fire risks and potential the vents for the dryer, furnace, • Remember to keep battery- fire hazards. Fuel burning space Planning Ahead all the great aroma that comes stove, and fireplace — is vented powered lights indoors and in heaters give off carbon monoxide continued from previous page along with cooking food! to the outside to avoid carbon all vehicles. and other air pollutants. If you dishes can be put together Finally, there is no better monoxide poisoning. Make To avoid potential must use one in a temporary ahead of time. This is a time to change your meal plan- sure the vent for the exhaust is fire hazards with space situation, do not leave it on when great way to get the family ning strategy than now! Every kept clear and unobstructed by heaters, fireplaces, and no one is in the room or while together and assemble dishes family deserves to take the time snow or ice. other appliances, follow sleeping. for the week or the night to unwind at the dinner table • Also be sure the gas meter is these precautions: For more information, go to before so they are ready to with a well-balanced meal and clear. If the meter or an appli- • Turn heaters off when you go www.nfpa.org. go when you get home. It the benefits that come from ance vent is covered in snow, to bed or leave the room. will be great for your family eating together. remove the snow carefully with • Use and purchase portable SOURCES: Shirley Niemeyer, Ph.D., to have a hot meal ready and the hand, a brush, or broom. space heaters with an auto- housing and environment specialist; National Fire Protection Association Do not remove it by kicking or matic shut off so if they’re The NEBLINE Page 6 http://lancaster.unl.edu Horticulture February 2011 Top 2011 Garden Trends: Gardening with a Purpose Put your garden gloves small space gardens, growing the productivity, environmental on and join the fun because food in containers makes quality, and return on invest- “gardening with a purpose” is sense. Containers brimming ment that indoor plantings and taking root. with fragrant herbs like basil, vertical living walls are bringing The purpose may be to grow rosemary, or thyme are attrac- to their projects. Climbing plants your own food or create urban tive and aromatic additions for can be used to provide privacy, ‘green’ sanctuaries, but planting indoors and outdoors. Blended screen eye-sores and draw the for a greener good is changing containers with herbs and eye upward to create the illusion neighborhoods and commun- vegetables provide a one-two of space. ities, one garden at a time. Big combo that can’t be beat for Urban Farming & city mayors are promoting freshness and convenience. CSA’s — In step with the move gardening programs in schools, Succulents — Dry to reinvigorate communities connecting students with nature, gardening with less water is with gardens, urban farming, growing food, and ‘greening’ bubbling across the nation. From and Community Supported their urban communities. college dorm rooms to home Agriculture (CSA) farms are Since last year, according to gardens, succulents are a perfect springing up. Urban farming Photo courtesyPhoto of Arbor Day Foundation the latest GWA Garden Trends In 2010, the Arbor Day Foundation constructed a green roof choice. These easy sustainable ‘micro-farms’ are converting Research Report, half of those demonstration project on top of its headquarters building plants produce showy flowers small spaces in blighted areas surveyed said they have gardens in downtown Lincoln. Most of the green elements on the along with thick, fleshy foliage into thriving farms that produce in their backyard, while more roof include sedum and other low-growing plants. The roof that stores water. Drought fresh produce for inner city than one-quarter have gardens in also contains a test plot for University of Nebraska–Lincoln tolerant and able to thrive in a communities. According to the their front yard. With vegetable professor of agronomy and horticulture Richard Sutton. He is variety of conditions, succulents Slow Food Movement, farmer’s gardening up almost 20 percent using the test plot to determine which native grasses can thrive are perfect for small gardens and markets and CSA’s are up a and community gardens up 60 and provide benefits in a green roof setting. large landscapes. whopping 60 percent. percent over last year, growing Indoor Gardening — New Urbanism — food for the table is certainly on Extend nature’s influence by Sustainable urban communi- the rise along with gardening greener. shrubs and smaller trees. Fresh bringing the outdoors in with ties offering convenient and with native plants. Backyard Since healthy plants start berries like raspberries and blue- houseplants. From “steampunk” enjoyable places to enjoy an conservationists and gardeners with healthy soil, people are berries you can pick right from Victorian hipster décor rocking urban lifestyle are rising in are transforming yards, gardens, looking for sustainable and home are spiking in popularity. among young urbanites to popularity. Rest-stop parklets rooftops and even urban alleys organic soils. According to a recent survey by upscale suburban homes, replicating European traditions into green and productive spaces, According to the recent the Garden Writers Association, orchids, ferns, and palms are of outdoor plazas for sunning knowing they are making a National Gardening Association’s about 16 percent more American now wildly popular. Chic and and socializing, are popping positive impact. Lawn & Garden Survey, 9 out of households planned to add easy to grow, orchids are graceful up throughout cities and small Here is a look at top emer- 10 households want to manage a vegetable garden and an additions to any room. Plus these towns where, believe it or not, ging garden trends for 2011: their lawns and gardens in an additional 12 percent planned hard-working beauties clean loitering is encouraged! These Gardening with a environmentally- friendly way. on adding an herb garden. indoor air from volatile organic new “parklets” convert concrete Purpose — In the wake of Eco-Scaping — Terms like Why? More than three-fourths compounds and provide oxygen. parking stalls along a block for the shocking Gulf coast images “sustainable” and “biodiversity” of respondents felt veggies are Phalaenopsis (moth) orchids are relaxation, eating, and enjoying of oil-sheen waves and coated were seldom heard a decade ago, less expensive with better taste, perfect choices for easy growing, green spaces with flowering wetlands and wildlife, people but today are part of our vocabu- quality, and nutrition. colorful, and exotic plants that shrubs, trees, and paths. Planting are taking measures to protect lary. The move to de-lawn large Sustainable Containers look as comfortable in 21st water wise plants, collecting rain- and conserve valuable natural tracks of turf and transform — Annual flower sales were down century homes as they did in water, homes, and apartments resources. There is no disputing lawns into sustainable landscapes almost 20 percent last year. It Victorian days. with less turf and more plants we all need to work together is achievable with the right appears gardeners see them as Growing Up with encourages better stewardship of to rejuvenate, regenerate, and plants for the right spot that use “luxuries” they can replace with Vertical Gardening — our earth and reconnects us as restore Mother Earth. Choosing less water and pesticides. long-blooming perennials and Vertical gardens are becoming fellow stewards of our resources eco-friendly products over toxic Edible Ornamentals — ever-blooming shrubs. They increasingly popular and will and our communities. chemicals is a pro-active step to There is rising consumer interest deliver all-season color without grow far beyond anything we can Source: GMG 2011 Garden Trends visit making our world cleaner and in edibles: small fruit bearing the high maintenance. For envision. Businesses are seeing www.gardenmediagroup.com. 2011 All-America Selections Flower Winners Garden Guide Gaillardia ‘Arizona Apricot’ Gaillardia ‘Arizona Apricot’ offers a new and THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH unique apricot flower color to the garden. Blooms By Mary Jane Frogge, UNL Extension Associate are 3-inch daisy-like flowers and have yellow edges Send off seed orders early this month to take advantage of seasonal that deepen to a rich apricot in the center. Just 105 discounts. Some companies offer bonus seeds of new varieties to days after sowing seed, this Gaillardia x grandiflora early buyers. will bloom from early summer into autumn. The Do not start your vegetable transplants indoors too early. Six weeks compact 12-inch tall plants offer bright green ahead of the expected planting date is early enough for the fast- foliage and a tidy uniform habit best viewed when growth species such as tomatoes. Eight weeks allows enough time for the slower-growing types such as peppers. planted to the front of the flower bed. This long- flowering perennial is hardy in USDA Zones 2–10, Check stored bulbs, tubers, and corms. Discard any that are soft or diseased. is relatively maintenance free, and drought-tolerant Photos courtesyPhotos of All-America Selections Prune fruit trees and grapes in late February or early March after the once established. Gardeners will want to remove Gaillardia ‘Arizona Salvia ‘Summer Jewel worst of the winter cold is passed but before spring growth begins. old flowers to encourage additional blooming. Apricot’ Red’ Order gladiolus corms now for planting later in the spring after all danger of frost has passed. Locate in full sun in well-drained soil. Ornamental Kale ‘Glamour Red’ Branches of forsythia, pussy willow, quince, spirea, and dogwood can This is All-America Selections’ first winning be forced for indoor bloom. Make long, slanted cuts when collecting kale (edible or ornamental) in 78 years of trials! the branches and place the stems in a vase of water. Change the ‘Glamour Red’ is an excellent achievement in water every four days. They should bloom in about three weeks. breeding for its unique shiny leaves. The waxless This year plan to grow at least one new vegetable you have never grown before; it may be better than what you are already growing. quality of the leaves makes them shiny with a more The new dwarf varieties on the market which use less space while intense, vivid color as compared to existing orna- producing more food per square foot, may be just what you are mental brassicas. It is a fringed-leaf type Brassica looking for. oleracea with flower head size of 10–12 inches. This Check any vegetables you have in storage. Dispose of any that show full sun annual will bloom 90 days from sowing signs of shriveling or rotting. seed to first color. Leaf coloring begins when night Late February is a good time to air-layer such house plants as dracaena, dieffenbachia, and rubber plant, especially if they have temperatures fall below 55°F for approximately two Ornamental Kale Viola ‘Shangri-La grown too tall and leggy. weeks. ‘Glamour Red’ Marina’ Order perennial plants and bulbs now for cut flowers this summer. Particularly good choices are phlox, daisies, coreopsis, asters, and Salvia ‘Summer Jewel Red’ bright red flower spikes are covered with half-inch lilies. This Salvia coccinea was consistently rated blooms making it perfect for the bird lover’s garden Check all five growing factors if your house plants are not growing superior or above average by the AAS judges where the bright red color acts as a magnet for well. Light, temperature, nutrients, moisture, and humidity must be because of its early and generous flower blossoms, hummingbirds. As an added bonus, goldfinches favorable to provide good growth. continuing from spring to autumn. Additionally, swarm the plant for seeds. Even the leaves add each dwarf and densely branching plant remains beauty with their fine textured, dark-green color. a tidy 20-inches tall, even at full maturity. The see ALL-AMERICA on next page The NEBLINE Page 7 http://lancaster.unl.edu Urban Agriculture February 2011

Growing Asparagus in the UNL Acreage Web Site Home Garden Provides Timely Information Asparagus is the will fill in the space earliest spring vegetable for quickly. Wide spacing most Nebraska gardeners also promotes rapid and a high value garden drying of the ferns to crop. It’s a delicious and help prevent the onset nutritious food, and with of fungus diseases. proper care an asparagus After planting, planting can be productive back fill the furrow to for 20 or more years. its original soil level. It isn’t necessary to Purchasing gradually cover the Asparagus crowns with a few watchthegardengrow.com Crowns inches of soil until the furrow is filled Photo by by Photo For most home Asparagus crown in. However, do not gardeners, asparagus is compact the soil over best planted from one-year-old, 50°F. There is no advantage to the newly filled furrow or the healthy, disease-free crowns, planting the crowns in cold, emergence of the asparagus purchased from a reputable wet soils. They will not grow will be severely reduced. Spears grower. A “crown” is the root until the soil warms and there is should emerge within one week system of a one-year-old aspar- danger of the plants being more in moist soils. agus plant that was grown from susceptible to Fusarium crown Asparagus is very drought seed. Each crown can produce rot if crowns are exposed to tolerant and can usually grow 1/2 lb. of spears per year when cold, wet soils over a prolonged without supplemental watering fully established. period. Plant the asparagus at because it seeks moisture deep Are you looking for answers to problems on your acreage? For the adventurous grower, either the west or north side of in the soil. However, if rainfall Maybe pine wilt has killed trees in your windbreak; now you asparagus can be planted from the garden so that it will not is insufficient when planting need to know how to manage the disease and renovate your tree seed. However, caring for the shade the other vegetables and or afterwards, it is beneficial to stand. Maybe you’re a new horse owner and need information small seedlings until they will not be injured when the rest irrigate the crowns. Otherwise on winter care for your horses. Or maybe you need information become established can be time of the garden is tilled. the plants will become stressed about the best way to manage your septic system. University of consuming. Also, because the Dig a furrow no deeper than and vigorous growth will be Nebraska–Lincoln Extension provides unbiased, research-based seeds are spaced a few inches 5 to 6 inches. Research has shown impeded. answers to these and many more questions, so that acreage apart, the crowns will have to be that the deeper asparagus crowns owners have the information they need to manage their rural dug and transplanted to their are planted, the more total yield Harvesting living environment, through the Acreage Insights Web site, permanent, wider-spaced loca- is reduced. Apply about 1 lb. of Not harvesting asparagus http://acreage.unl.edu. tion in the garden after one year. 0-46-0 (triple superphosphate) during the first planting year, will Acreage Insights features timely information on the topics For highest yields, choose or 2 lbs. of 0-20-0 (superphos- ensure greater root development of landscapes, livestock, wildlife, pest and weed management, one of the new all-male hybrid phate) fertilizer per 50 feet of and energy storage. Spears will well and septic system management, and entrepreneurial asparagus varieties that have row in the bottom of the furrow be produced from buds on the opportunities for acreage owners. Subscribe to our monthly been developed by Rutgers before planting. This will make crown, elongating to a height of email newsletter, view video presentations and demonstrations University, such as ‘Jersey phosphorus immediately avail- about 8 to 9 inches. The plant’s on timely topics, or follow Acreage Insights via Facebook and Knight,’ ‘Jersey Supreme,’ and able to the crowns. Omitting this fern-like foliage will produce Twitter. You can even submit questions, using the “Ask An ‘Jersey Giant.’ These all-male procedure results in decreased food for the plant and then move Expert” feature, and get answers from UNL Extension experts to cultivars can out-produce yields and spear production will it down to the crown for next your troublesome acreage problems. older female cultivars, such as not be as vigorous. year’s spear production. In February, the Web site will feature a short video on ‘Mary Washington’ and ‘Martha Place the crowns into the Harvest lightly for only 3 “Understanding Seed Catalog Terminology,” which explains the Washington,’ by 3 to 1. Using furrow on top of the fertilizer. to 4 weeks the second year. In meaning of common horticulture terms, such as hybrid and male hybrids also avoids the The fertilizer will not burn the subsequent years, harvesting can cultivar, and enables gardeners to choose the best seeds and weed problems caused by new crowns. Space the crowns 1-1/2 begin when the newly emerging plants for their landscapes. asparagus seedlings. feet apart in the row. If more spears reach 6 to 8 inches tall, All this information and more can be found at than one row is planted, space usually about mid-April in http://acreage.unl.edu. Planting the rows five feet apart from eastern Nebraska, and continue — Sarah Browning, Extension Educator Asparagus can be planted center to center. Wide between- for 6 to 8 weeks. Remove the from mid-April to late May after row spacing is necessary because spears by cutting or snapping the soil has warmed up to about the vigorously growing ferns them off at the soil surface.

All-America Selections Nebraska Hay Hotline continued from previous page ‘Summer Jewel Red,’ just 50 days from Nut Orchard Seminar, Connects Buyers and Sellers sowing to first flower, is approximately The Nebraska Department two weeks earlier than other red salvias. Feb. 17 of Agriculture’s (NDA) Hay Expect long-season performance and The Nebraska Nut Growers Association (NeNGA) is and Forage Hotline is superior holding ability in both wind sponsoring a Nut Orchard Planning, Planting, Care, and available to help connect and rain. This annual is ideal for full Harvesting seminar on Thursday, Feb. 17, 7–9 p.m. at the Nebraska hay growers sun containers, mixed beds, and borders Lancaster Extension Education Center, 444 Cherrycreek with buyers. This free where uniformity is desired. Rd., Lincoln. If you want to plant one nut tree or an service provides the orchard, you should find this seminar informative so seller’s basic Viola ‘Shangri-La Marina’ you can plan for success. NeNGA and University of hay informa- This winning Viola cornuta is an Nebraska–Lincoln have worked together for 30 years tion to anyone early-flowering, mounding viola in a in the cultivation of high quality cultivar nut trees like interested in vibrant new color for this type. In trials, pecan, walnut, hickory, and chestnut. There will also be purchasing hay. To see this directory go to Hay & Forage the 6-inch tall plants kept a low-growing an update on hazelnut development for our area. Hotline, http://www.agr.ne.gov/hayhot/hayhotline.htm, where a mounding habit. Colorful and prolific Everyone has different expectations and goals when listing of hay sellers can be downloaded in either a Adobe pdf 1-inch blooms have light blue petals with planting nut trees. This seminar will introduce you to or Excel spreadsheet format. To request the list by mail, call the a velvety dark blue face is surrounded most aspects of what it takes to accomplish your goals Hotline at (402) 471-4876 or (800) 422-6692. by a narrow white border. Judges noted and expectations. There will be professional growers on Producers who would like to have their information earlier and showier blooms with notice- hand to answer your questions. listed in the “Sellers List” on the Hay Hotline, should call and able drive-by flower power. Flower • Planning phase will cover information on the charac- provide their name, city, county, state, phone number, kind of color was a consistent deep Marina blue teristics of different nut trees that have been cultivated hay, amount for sale, price, and any notes. New producers are throughout the season. This vigorous for our area. added to the online listing on a regular basis and older entries frost-tolerant biennial provides a solid • Planting phase will cover planting consideration. are removed after being posted for one year or sooner upon mat of fall color until covered with snow • Caring phase will cover tasks required to bring a producer request. followed by a great recovery in spring. seedling to a productive producing nut tree. NDA encourages hay and forage producers and buyers to Grow in full sun as a low edging in the • Harvesting tasks will cover harvesting techniques, use this valuable directory. garden or in hanging baskets and pots. processing, and the marketing your nuts. Source: All-America Selections The NEBLINE Page 8 http://lancaster.unl.edu 4-H & Youth February 2011 February Meet the 2011 Lancaster County 4-H Council Lancaster County 4-H Council represents the interests of youth, parents, and leaders. 4-H Trina Brown Council is responsible for determining long- and short-term goals and policy for Lancaster County Lancaster 4-H. They also raise funds by operating a food booth at the Lancaster County Fair. These funds help County 4-H is support 4-H programs, activities, and scholarships. Here is this year’s 4-H Council: proud to announce Officers: Quentin Farley (President), Spencer Farley (Vice-President), Lynnette Nelson Trina Brown (Treasurer), and Rachel Pickrel (Secretary). as winner of Members: Elizabeth Frobish, Kent Frobish, Miranda Gunnerson, Mark Hurt, Katie Lloyd, Mike February’s “Heart Lloyd, Ann Pickrel, Jennifer Cusick-Rawlinson, Abby Spencer, Jessica Stephenson, and Stephanie of 4-H Award” Wachter. in recognition of outstanding volunteer service. Trina started volunteering with 4-H as a parent volunteer when her daughter began 4-H six years ago. Trina started the Super Shamrocks club three years ago and is orga- nizational leader. Every year, she and her club members volunteer at the Lancaster County Fair setting up displays and taking a shift at the 4-H 4-H/FFA Market Beef Crocheting Now is a Good Time food booth. This will be the second year Super Shamrocks is to Choose recognized a Nebraska Club of Excellence. Weigh-In, Feb. 3 Workshop, Feb. 5 “I enjoy working with the kids,” says Trina Brown. “As they 4-H/FFA market beef weigh All youth ages 8 and up 4-H Diamond Clover learn new skills and interact in volunteer community projects, in will be held Thursday, Feb. 3, (need not be enrolled in 4-H) Goals they really open up and come alive with all the possibilities in 6–8 p.m. at the Lancaster Event are invited The Nebraska 4-H Diamond front of them. My favorite experience as a 4-H volunteer was Center – Pavilion 3. Any market to learn Clover Program is a statewide when we made pillows as a group project. After finishing, I steer or heifer planning to show how to program which encourages 4-H asked the 4-H’ers what they had learned. One girl raised her at county fair, state fair, or crochet a members to engage in a variety hand and said she learned it is much easier and faster just to Ak-Sar-Ben 4-H Livestock Show dish cloth of projects and activities. Every buy a pillow. I had to smile at that! Valuable lesson learned.” must weigh-in and get DNA utilizing 4-H’er who participates can earn Congratulations to Trina. Volunteers like her are indeed the processed at this time. the single recognition! Youth can progress heart of 4-H! crochet from Level 1 up through Level 6. Nominate your favorite 4-H volunteer by submitting the form stitch at a At the beginning of the available at http://lancaster.unl.edu/4h or at the extension office. Food and Nutrition free basic 4-H year, youth choose goals crocheting from a provided list and at the Resource for 4-H workshop on Saturday, Feb. end of the 4-H year, fill out a Clubs 5, 9 a.m. at the Lancaster report which documents their Community Service Grants Due March 2 Are you interested in having Extension Education Center, accomplishments. For each level, The Governor’s Agricultural Excellence Awards are sponsored hands-on nutrition projects 444 Cherrycreek Road, Lincoln. the Nebraska 4-H Diamond by the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) in coopera- brought to your club? A UNL All supplies will be provided. Clover program provides a list tion with the Nebraska 4-H Foundation. These awards recognize dietetics major and former 4-H Adults are welcome to attend. of age-appropriate activities, 25 4-H clubs each year for the work of the individuals in the club member is interested in working Must preregister by Feb. 2 by increasing in numbers and and the community service work of the entire club. Recognition is with 4-H clubs in the area of calling (402) 441-7180. 4-H’ers difficulty for each level. in the form of $500 checks issued to the club’s treasury to be used foods and nutrition. For more may enter dish cloths at the For more information, go to as described in the award application form completed by the club. information, call Tracy at (402) county fair under 4-H Clothing http://4h.unl.edu/diamondclover Forms are due by March 2. For more information, go to 441-7180. — Level 1 Knit or Crochet. or call (402) 441-7180. www.ne4hfoundation.org/agexcellenceaward.htm.

4-H Horse R.B. Warren and Stampede, Feb. 19 Grand Island Saddle orse bits The 4-H Horse Stampede will Club 4-H Scholarships be held Saturday, Feb. 19 at the Animal Science Building on UNL East Due March 1 Campus. Lancaster County has several One $500 scholarship and four 4-H’ers competing in these statewide $1,000 scholarships are available competitions. The schedule is as for 4-H’ers enrolled and active in follows: the Nebraska 4-H Horse Program. • Art Contest Judging and Display, For complete directions and appli- 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m. cations go to http://go.unl.edu/3o4. • Demonstration Contests, 8 a.m. Applications must be postmarked • Public Speaking Contests, 8:30 a.m. by March 1. • Horse Bowl, 12 p.m. These are fun contests! I would highly encourage those of you who aren’t familiar with Stampede to 2011 Horsemanship stop in and see what it is all about. Level Testing Dates Support our county 4-H’ers and see Mark your calendars! The if the contest might be something you 2011 group testings will be held would enjoy doing in the future. These at the Lancaster Event Center 4-H Youth Eat Up Equine Nutrition Clinic competitions do not require a horse. on the following dates: Between Stampede events, you • Tuesday, April 19, 6 p.m. Approximately 90 4-H members, their families, and leaders may want to check out the UNL • Tuesday, May 3, 6 p.m attended a clinic on equine nutrition held in December at the extension Equestrian Team who will be hosting • Tuesday, June 21, 6 p.m. office. Jennifer Cusick-Rawlinson was lead clinician. Some of the areas an intercollegiate show in the R.B. • Tuesday, June 28, 6 p.m. covered include feeding options, deciding what to feed, body condition Warren Arena (also located in the • Tuesday, July 5, 6 p.m. scoring, reading labels, cost saving tips, solving common equine nutri- Animal Science Building). Several • Saturday, Oct. 1, 9 a.m. tion problems, weighing feed samples, converting girth measure- former Lancaster 4-H’ers are on the Please RSVP at least by one ment to weight estimates, and completing a feed chart for UNL team! week in advance with Marty horsemanship levels II and III. The clinic was followed No admission fee for either the at [email protected] or by lunch. Stampede or Equestrian Team show. (402) 441-7180. NEBLINE Page 9 http://lancaster.unl.edu 4-H & Youth February 2011

Lancaster County 4-H and 4-H Council invite ALL 4-H’ers, 4-H families and volunteers to 4-H Achievement Night “2010 Thursday, Feb. 10 • 6:30 p.m. 4-H Year in Review” video! Lancaster Extension Education Center 444 Cherrycreek Road, Lincoln Evening Starts With a Dessert Potluck Please bring a dessert to share (plates and utensils provided).

Lancaster County 4-H congratulates all 4-H youth who commit themselves to excellence! Part of Nebraska 4-H 4-H members, clubs and volunteers receiving awards, scholarships, or pins Month! will be mailed detailed information.

Pillow Party, March 12 Windstream 4-H Camp Scholarship All youth ages 8 and up Thanks to the generosity of Windstream Communications, two (need not be enrolled in 4-H) Lancaster County 4-H members will receive full scholarships to 4-H Speech & are invited to learn beginning attend a 4-H summer camp at the Eastern Nebraska 4-H Camp sewing skills and make a pillow near Gretna! Applicants must be age 9 or older and currently at the Pillow Party on Saturday, enrolled in 4-H. Scholarship is based on need. Application March 12, 9 a.m. at the Lancaster deadline is May 1 — preference given to applications submitted PSA Contests Extension Education Center, by March 1. Applications are available at the extension office and 444 Cherrycreek Road, Lincoln. at http://go.unl.edu/hqw. Opportunity to Practice Bring your sewing machine, basic sewing equipment (scissors, pins, Communication Skills measuring tape), etc. Also bring The Speech & Public Service 1/3 yard and 2/3 yard contrasting Announcement (PSA) Contests provide fabrics, pre-washed, 100% cotton 4-H’ers the opportunity to learn to express (no plaids) and matching thread. Spring Rabbit Show themselves clearly, organize their ideas Pillow forms provided. No cost to Saturday, March 19, 9 a.m. and have confidence. Contests are open attend. Adults are welcome. Sign Registrations 7:30–9:00 a.m. Open to all to all 4-H’ers ages 8–18 (by January 1 of up by March 10 by calling youth 8–18 the current year) — need not be enrolled (402) 441-7180. 4-H’ers may Location To Be Announced in a specific project. Youth may choose to enter pillows at the county fair participate in either or both the Speech and under 4-H Clothing - Sewing PSA contests. For resources, guidelines, and for Fun. examples go to http://lancaster.unl.edu/4h/ Jammie Jamboree, Contest/speech.shtml. April 2 Speech Contest, May 1 Learn basic sewing skills The 2011 4-H Speech Contest will be held Sunday, May as part of the 4-H Clothing 1, 1:30 p.m. at the Lancaster Extension Education Center, 444 Level 1 project and make Cherrycreek Road, Lincoln. Register by April 25 by calling jammie bottoms on Saturday, (402) 441-7180 or emailing [email protected] with your April 2, 9 a.m. at the Lancaster Awards will be given! Opportunity name, speech title & your age division. Contest divisions: Extension Education Center, 444 CLASSES: Fancy Rabbits, to learn and • Clover Kid: 5–7 years old, read or recite any short story, Cherrycreek Road, Lincoln. Open Commercial Rabbits, Pet practice your nursery rhyme, poem, pledge, etc. to all youth (need not be in 4-H). Class and Pee Wee Class. showmanship! • Novice: 8–9 years old, 2 minutes in length, any topic Adults are welcome. REGISTRATION FEES: $2.50 related to 4-H. Bring your sewing machine, per rabbit or cavy, $1 fur RAFFLE FOR MANY PRIZES! • Junior: 10–11 years old, 2–3 minutes in length, any topic basic sewing equipment (scis- class, $1 Showmanship. TICKETS 3 FOR $1. about a 4-H experience. sors, pins, measuring tape, etc.), Please bring an item for raffle such • Intermediate: 12–13 years old, 3–5 minutes in length, pull-on pajama bottom pattern FREE CONTESTS: Rabbit as crafts, rabbit items, plants, encouraged to talk about a 4-H project you would like (one simple pattern is Simplicity Quiz & Rabbit Races! Easter/Spring items, books, etc. others to enroll in. 3553), prewashed flannel or 100% All rabbits must be tattooed in the left ear (available at the show). All rabbits must • Senior: 14–19, 5–8 minutes in length, a timely topic related be brought in solid bottom cages which are leak-proof with a CLOSED, solid bottom. cotton fabric (no one-way design to 4-H. fabrics or plaids) and matching For more information, call Rodney at thread. Also bring a sack lunch. (402) 782-2186 or Marty at (402) 441-7180 PSA Contest, Due April 25 Sign up by March 31 by calling Sponsored by Lancaster County 4-H Rabbit VIPS Committee In the Public Service Announcement (PSA) Contest, and UNL Extension in Lancaster County (402) 441-7180. Jammie bottoms 4-H’ers submit a 60 second “radio commercial” promoting may be entered at the county 4-H. The PSA contest will be held via audio only (not in fair and styled in the Style Revue person). Submit a PSA via CD playable on any standard stereo under Clothing Level 1. equipment to extension by Monday, April 25. (New this year, no tapes please.) If you do not have the capabilities to record Clover College a PSA, contact extension to set up a recording time. Results Instructors and and comment sheets will be handed out at the 4-H Speech 4-H Clubs Needed to Help Provide Booths Contest on Sunday, May 1. Volunteers Needed at Kiwanis Karnival, April 9 State 4-H asks for PSA’s to be non-county specific so 4-H Clover College will be The annual Kiwanis Karnival, a FREE family event is winning PSA’s can be aired on radios statewide (for example, held June 14–17 at the Lancaster sponsored by the Lincoln Center Kiwanis. This year, it will be say “call your local extension office”). Extension Education Center. held Saturday, April 9, 6–8 p.m. at Elliott Elementary School, 225 • All PSA’s must use the state theme as the basis for their PSA. Clover College is four days of S. 26 Street, Lincoln. The Karnival features carnival type games The 2011 PSA theme is “Taking the Lead.” fun-filled, hands-on workshops for the kids, bingo for adults, prizes, snacks, fun, and fellow- • All 4-H PSA’s must include the following tag line within for youth ages 6 and up. If you ship. Lincoln Center Kiwanis has sponsored this event for over the last ten seconds of the PSA: “Learn more about the have workshop topic ideas, or 50 years providing prizes and snacks. 4-H clubs are needed to University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension 4-H Youth if you would like to teach a provide carnival-type booths. This is a great community service Development Program at 4h.unl.edu and ‘Know How. Know workshop or volunteer to help, and leadership activity for clubs. If your 4-H club or family Now.’” The tag line is included in the 60 second time limit. please contact Tracy at (402) would like to have a booth or for more information, call Lorene As always, background noises and sound effects are 441-7180. All help is very much at (402) 441-7180. Come join the fun! encouraged. appreciated! The NEBLINE Page 10 http://lancaster.unl.edu Community Focus February 2011 Lincoln’s Free Tax Preparation and Filing Volunteer Income Tax You may be able to take the Assistance (VITA) is a program EITC if: Lincoln VITA Sites developed and co-sponsored • You have three or more quali- and Hours by the IRS with assistance from fying children and your earned Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites local coalitions which offers free income was less than $43,352 offer FREE tax preparation and filing of tax help to low- to moderate- ($48,362, if married filing Federal and State of Nebraska returns Jan. 22–April 15 unless otherwise noted. income individuals who need jointly). assistance preparing their • You have two qualifying chil- ANDERSON LIBRARY 3635 Touzalin Avenue federal and state tax returns. dren and your earned income • Tuesdays, 4:30–7 p.m. (closed April 5) As part of local VITA efforts, was less than $40,363 ($45,373, • Wednesdays, 4:30–7 p.m. the Lincoln Earned Income Tax if married filing jointly). ASIAN COMMUNITY & Credit (EITC) Coalition led by • You have one qualifying child CULTURAL CENTER Community Action Partnership and your earned income was 2615 O Street of Lancaster and Saunders less than $35,535 ($40,545, if • Monday–Friday by appointment, call Counties, will provide free tax married filing jointly). OR (402) 477-3446 preparation services at several • You do not have a qualifying BENNETT MARTIN LIBRARY sites in Lincoln. child and your earned income 14 & N Streets In 2010, the Lincoln EITC was less than $13,460 ($18,470, • Tuesdays, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. (Jan. 25–Feb. 22) • Wednesdays, 11 a.m.–2p.m. (Jan. 26–Feb. Caleb Pickard, a Physics/Philosophy Major from Bismarck, Coalition filed over 5,000 free if married filing jointly). 23) tax returns which resulted in Please note: if your tax • Sundays, 1:30–4 p.m. N.D. is one of several UNL students providing free tax preparation at the UNL sites. over $6 million in refunds to our return has transactions beyond EISELEY LIBRARY local economy. Approximately the scope of the VITA volunteers’ 1530 Superior Street 35% of those refunds (or over $2 training, VITA volunteers cannot • Mondays, 1–7 p.m. (closed Feb. 21) million) was from the EITC. prepare the return. In case of bad • Thursdays, 1–7 p.m. UNL Students Get The EITC is a special tax weather, please call the VITA site GOOD NEIGHBOR CENTER benefit for working people or tune into KFOR 1240 AM for 2617 Y Street • Tuesdays, 6–8:30 p.m. (Feb. 1, 8, 15 only) Involved at Campus who earn low to moderate cancellations. • Sundays, 1–4 p.m. (Jan. 30, Feb. 6, 13 only) incomes. Updated for 2010: The For more information Tax Preparation Sites maximum amount of income about VITA sites in Lincoln, call INDIAN CENTER 1100 Military Road you can earn and still get the 2-1-1, or go to www.community­ • Monday–Friday by appointment, call University of Nebraska– ­ volunteers prepared 785 credit has increased, and you actionatwork.org. For VITA (402) 438-5231 ext. 105 Lincoln students are tax returns which gener­ may have up to three qualifying sites outside of Lincoln, call COMMUNITY ACTION providing free tax prepara- ated $1,400,000, including children. 1-877-659-7870. PARTNERSHIP tion services at the UNL $373,000 of Earned Income 210 O Street Volunteer Income Tax Tax Credit. The 26 student • Mondays, 5–7:30 p.m. (Jan. 24–April 11) Assistance (VITA) sites, and volunteers donated 1,200 • Tuesdays, 5–7:30 p.m. (Jan. 25–Feb. 22) have done so for the past hours to help low- and What to Bring to Have Your Taxes • Wednesdays, 5–7:30 p.m. (Jan. 26–Feb. 23) four years. Free parking and moderate-income families Prepared at a VITA Site • Thursdays, 5–7:30 p.m. childcare is also provided at electronically file their • W-2’s from your employer, 1099’s for miscellaneous • Fridays, 9–11:30 a.m. (Jan. 28–Feb. 25) the UNL sites. returns. Those receiving income, and W2-G’s for gambling income NEBRASKA EAST UNION Dr. Linda Moody, refunds have said they plan Enter on Holdrege & 35th & follow signs assistant director of to pay off bills, repair a car, • 1099’s for interest, dividends, unemployment, • Mondays, 5–8 p.m. (Jan. 24–Feb. 20) Service-Learning, says, “Our or pay their mortgage. retirement, and other income • Tuesdays, 5–8 p.m. (Jan. 25–Feb. 20) • Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. (Jan. 26–Feb. 20) students gain real world The UNL students • Social Security cards or ITIN letters (for you, your • Saturdays, 1–5 p.m. (Jan. 22–Feb. 20) experience through this will prepare tax returns at spouse, your children, and other dependents) • Sundays, 1-–5 p.m. (Jan. 23–Feb. 20) service opportunity. Not the Nebraska East Union only do students learn tax Jan. 22–Feb. 20 and at the • Copy of last year’s tax return (very helpful) NEBRASKA UNION 14th & R law and how to complete Nebraska Union on city • Child care information (provider’s ID number and • Mondays, 5–8 p.m. (Feb. 28–March 9) tax returns, they learn from campus Feb. 26–March 9. • Tuesdays, 5–8 p.m. (March 1–9) address and receipts for amount paid) • Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. (March 2–9) the community members The sites are open Saturday • Blank check or savings account information for direct • Saturdays, 1–5 p.m. (Feb. 26–March 9) as well. This valuable and Sunday from 1 to 5 deposit • Sundays, 1–5 p.m. (Feb. 27–March 9) experience has helped p.m. and Monday, Tuesday, WILLIAMS LIBRARY students gain valuable and Wednesday from 5 to • Statements of student loan interest, mortgage at Arnold Elementary, NW 48th Street work experience leading to 8 p.m. interest and property tax & West Cuming internships and entry-level UNL students are also • Tuesdays, 4:30–7 p.m. (Jan. 25–Feb. 22) • List of any other income and expenses • Wednesdays, 4:30–7 p.m. (Jan. 26–Feb. 23) employment.” providing expertise at six In 2010, UNL student targeted sites.

EXTENSION NEWS New 4-H Embryology Staff Member Joins Extension NEBRASKA Karen Madden joined UNL Extension in Lancaster County in FAMILY December as an extension assistant for NEBRASKA the 4-H Embryology school enrich- ment program. She will coordinate the Your call for FAMILY is answered. Embryology science unit in schools HELP and give presentations in classrooms. Your call for is answered. Each spring, approximately 4,000 HELP Lancaster County third graders in 175 LINE classrooms at 53 schools incubate, candle, and watch eggs hatch. During LINE the 21 day incubation period, students 1-888-866-8660 care for chicken eggs and study the stages of the developing embryos. 1-888-866-8660 Students “candle” their eggs by holding a light to the egg to reveal a silhouette • Trained counselors 24/7/365 of the chick inside. • Trained counselors 24/7/365 Karen will also coordinate chicks • Children's behavioral issues hatching on EGG Cam, part of the • Children's behavioral issues • Parent/child conflict resolution Lancaster County Embryology Web • Parent/child conflict resolution site at http://lancaster.unl.edu/4h/ Karen Madden sets eggs in an incubator for EGG Cam. • Youthmental health services Embryology. • Youthmental health services Prior to joining extension, Karen was a Consumer Affairs with a Business minor and Family and Consumer Sciences middle school an MA in Industrial/Organizational Psychology teacher in Lakewood, Colo. She has a BA in from Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, La. A STATEWIDE HELP-LINE SUPPORTED BY THE NEBRASKA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES A STATEWIDE HELP-LINE SUPPORTED BY THE NEBRASKA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES EXTENSION CALENDAR All programs and events will be held at the Lancaster Extension Education Center unless otherwise noted. January 24 Landowners Update Meeting...... 8 a.m.–Noon Extension is a Division of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural 24 Family & Community Education (FCE) Council Meeting .....12:30 p.m. Resources at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln cooperating with 26 Family & Community Education (FCE) and Community Leader Training the Counties and the United States Department of Agriculture. Lesson, “Healthy Meal Planning on a Budget”...... 1 p.m. 27 Private Pesticide Applicator Training Session...... 8:30–11:30 a.m. University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension 29 Private Pesticide Applicator Training Session...... 8:30–11:30 a.m. in Lancaster County 444 Cherrycreek Road, Suite A February Lincoln, NE 68528-1507 1 Initial Pesticide Training...... 8:30 a.m. (402) 441-7180 2 Private Pesticide Applicator Training Session...... 6:30–9:30 p.m. 3 Recertification Pesticide Training...... 9 a.m. http://lancaster.unl.edu 3 4-H/FFA Beef Weigh In, Lancaster Event Center - Pav. 2...... 6–8 p.m. Email: [email protected] • Fax: (402) 441-7148 5 4-H Basic Crocheting Workshop...... 9 a.m. Join us on YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook 10 4-H Achievement Night...... 6:30 p.m. http://lancaster.unl.edu/media 11 Extension Board Meeting...... 8 a.m. 13 4-H Teen Council Meeting ...... 3 p.m. Lancaster Extension Education Center Conference Facilities 15 Guardian/Conservator Training...... 1:30–4:30 p.m. 444 Cherrycreek Road, Lincoln 17 Parents Forever Class...... 9 a.m.–12:30 / 5:30–9 p.m. 19 4-H Horse Stampede, UNL Animal Science Building 23 Family & Community Education (FCE) and Community Leader Training Lesson, “Ready to Learn Wiring: Infants and Toddlers for Success!”...... 1 p.m. 24 Initial Pesticide Training...... 8:30 a.m.

Lancaster Ag Society Horsin’ Around, Feb. 12–13 Lancaster Seeks Nominations Extension University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension is presenting the 18th Education for Hall of Fame Annual Horsin’ Around conference Feb. 12–13 at the R.B. Warren Center At the 2010 Super Fair, the Arena in the Animal Science Complex on UNL East Campus. Lancaster County Agricultural Clinicians are Shane Dowdy and Jamie Hartman. The clinic is open Society unveiled a new Ag to participants of all ages. Adult registration is $30 for the weekend Society Hall of Fame located at or $20 for one day. For youth 18 and under, registration is $20 for the Lancaster Event Center. This both days or $15 for one. Registration closes Feb. 7. If the clinic wall formally recognizes those doesn’t sell out, adult registration will be available at the door for individuals who have dedicated $40 for the weekend and $25 for one day — youth registration at time and effort to the Lancaster the door will be $30 for the weekend and $20 for one day. For more University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension educational programs abide County Agricultural Society information or to preregister, go to http://go.unl.edu/nhe or call with the nondiscrimination policies of the University of Nebraska- beyond the normal volunteer (402) 472-6411. Lincoln and the United States Department of Agriculture. We assure hours and have made significant reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act; for contributions to the establish- assistance contact UNL Extension in Lancaster County at (402) 441-7180. ment, development, advance- ment or improvement of the Master Conservationist Entries Due April 1 Extension Educator & Unit Leader Lancaster County Fair. Last year’s Nebraska adults and youth in both rural and Gary C. Bergman inductees were Gordon Chapelle, urban areas who have implemented soil and Extension Educators Extension Technologist Larry Hudkins, Franklyn water conservation practices are eligible Lorene Bartos David Smith to enter the 2011 Master Conservationist Manning, and Charlie Willnerd. Sarah Browning Extension Assistants If you know of a person who is Recognition program. The deadline for Maureen Burson Lisa Connot entries is April 1. There are categories for Tom Dorn Teri Hlava deserving of this honor, please Alice Henneman nominate them. Nomination youth groups, and individuals, residences, Vicki Jedlicka communities, and private businesses as Barb Ogg Karen Madden forms and more information well as production agriculture (farming and Karen Wobig Kristen Neth can be requested by calling the ranching). Master Conservationist program Jim Wies Lancaster Event Center at Extension Associates Dana Willeford brochures are available at the UNL Extension office and online at Mary Abbott (402) 441-6545. Nomination http://owh.com (click on the “In the Community” link). Tracy (Kulm) Anderson Support Staff forms will be due by May 1, 2011. Soni Cochran Pam Branson Marty Cruickshank Kay Coffey Mary Jane Frogge Deanna Covault Deanna Karmazin Karen Evasco Mardel Meinke Virginia Piening Julie Rasmussen Chris Rosenthal Karen Wedding

® Open House Events The Nebline RED LETTER DAY The Nebline is published monthly (except December). Monday, Feb . 21 — an all-day open house experience Mailed to more than 12,000 households in Lancaster County for high school seniors . and can be read online at http://lancaster.unl.edu/nebline The Nebline articles may be reprinted without special permission if the source is JUNIOR WEDNESDAYS acknowledged as “University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension in Lancaster County Wednesdays from March 2 to April 27 Nebline.” If the article contains a byline, please include the author’s name and title. — Reference to commercial products or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination a Husker Weekday tailored for juniors . is intended and no endorsement by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is implied. Email Notifications BIG RED OPEN HOUSE Sign up at http://lancaster.unl.edu/nebline to be notified by email March 7, April 15 or April 22 — Spend a day when The Nebline is posted online. on campus learning more about academics, student life, scholarships, and Husker spirit! Mail Subscriptions Subscriptions to The Nebline via mail are free to Lancaster County SUPER SATURDAY residents. There is an annual $5 mailing and handling fee to addresses April 2 — A visit day built by students for in zip codes other than 683—, 684—, 685—, 68003, 68017 and 68065. students! o Order subscription o Change of address

For more information or to register, Name ______see http://admissions.unl.edu Address ______

City______Zip ______

Phone______We will only use your phone number in case there is a problem with your mailing address. Mail to: UNL Extension in Lancaster County The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is an equal opportunity educator and employer with a comprehensive plan for diversity. 444 Cherrycreek Road, Suite A • Lincoln, Nebraska 68528-1507 The NEBLINE Page 12 http://lancaster.unl.edu Miscellaneous February 2011

Can You Guess It?

4-H Summer Camp Brochures Now Available 2011 4-H Summer Camp brochures are now available online at http://4h.unl.edu/camp and at the extension office. Camps are open to all youth ages 5–18 (need not be in 4-H). With three unique Nebraska locations at Halsey, Gretna, and Alma, there are more than 40 camps ranging from half day to four days/three nights! Vicki Jedlicka, UNL Extension in Lancaster County Vicki UNL Extension Jedlicka, UNL Extension, through its 4-H Youth Did you guess it? Find out at Development Program, has been operating 4-H Camps for over 40 years. The 4-H camps and centers all meet over 300 standards http://lancaster.unl.edu Save 10% Did you guess it from the Nov./Dec. Nebline? established by the American Camping The answer was: Corn Residue by registering Association. Brochures have before complete information about all April 1! camps. Discover the adventure! Watch Chicks Hatch Applications Open for 4-H Camp Staff Online with EGG Cam! The three 4-H Camps in Nebraska are according to their availability. Perfect for high currently accepting applications for our 2011 school youth who need a fun getaway from their http://lancaster.unl.edu/4h/Embryology summer staff. All positions provide endless full time summer job. Mentor for a few days or opportunities for growth in a fun, fast-paced for the entire summer — the choice is yours! Now streaming video in outdoor atmosphere. Application deadline is March 1. You may apply for a variety of positions: • Camp Counselors — Youth ages 15–18 who near real time! • Camp Staff — Salaried youth ages 18 and assist with cabin supervision and leading of older who lead camp programs. Spend mid-May camp programs. Join over 150 volunteer teens Embryology resources to August working full time to provide day to in providing valuable leadership to a group of day leadership of camp activities and teaching campers by day and assist with cabin supervi- include incubation, groups of all ages. A great summer job for sion at night. Camp counselors are scheduled candling, and more! college students with any major. Initial applica- according to their availability and counseling is tion deadline is Feb. 1. a fantastic leadership experience for any young Become a • Cabin Mentors — Youth ages 17 and up person. Application deadline is May 1. Facebook Fan! who provide cabin supervision and assist in More information and applications are online leading camp programs. Mentors receive an at http://4h.unl.edu/camp — need not be in 4-H honorarium for their service and are scheduled to apply. Explore Career Options at Big Red Academic Camps The 2011 Big Red Summer Academic Camps are a chance for youth grades 9–12 to spend time investigating an interest or With collegeboundnebraska, potential career, explore the UNL campus, meet your tuition will be, in round people from across the state and have lots of numbers, $0,000. fun. Held in June, Big Red Summer Academic Camps features 12 career exploration camps hosted by Nebraska 4-H and University of Nebraska–Lincoln faculty members. The camps are residence camps held on UNL campus. Housing and food are provided. After spending several fun-filled days Camp Dates exploring a specific topic such as movie- 3D Animation/Virtual World Creation June 12–17 making or food molecular biology, youth show- Culinary Arts and Food Science June 12–17 case their work at a special “capstone event” Entrepreneurship* June 12–17 which family members are invited to attend. Brochures and registration forms are Filmmaking June 12–17 available at http://bigredcamps.unl.edu or at the Geology and Paleontology* June 12–17 The Outdoors June 12–17 Qualified students can choose any University of Nebraska extension office. For more campus, earn a bachelor’s degree and pay no tuition. information, call Textile Design* June 12–17 Visit collegeboundnebraska.com for details. (402) 472-2805. Save $50 Unicameral Youth Legislature June 12–15 4-H members are by registering Veterinary Science June 12–17 encouraged to apply for before * New camp for 2011. a scholarship — applica- Big Red Summer Academic Camps reserves the right not to hold a LINCOLN | OMAHA | KEARNEY | MEDICAL CENTER ® April 1! tion is on the Web site. camp due to low participation numbers.

BAILEY LAUERMAN University of NE Central Administration Skip Tuition Ad Univer102018 Pub: Extension Newsletter Color: 4-color Size: 4" x 5"