Decatur County News
Extension's Energy Tip (Posted on 11/15/2009)
As part of President Gregory Geoffroy and Vice President for Extension Jack Payne’s call for energy conservation education, we are providing a monthly energy tip. 
Turkey Talk (Posted on 11/8/2009)
November is time to “Talk Turkey”. According to Barb Fuller, Nutrition and Health Program Specialist, plan to enjoy the traditional Thanksgiving turkey. 
4-H Club Information (Posted on 11/1/2009)
You can find the 4-H Newsletters, club Information, download forms or get lots of other useful information to help you with all of your 4-H projects and/or your Record Books. 
Cope With Stress During Tough Times (Posted on 10/18/2009)
Stress can pull family members apart just when they need each other the most. Donna Donald, Family Life Program Specialist offers ideas to strengthen families during these tough times of layoffs, state budget cuts and the overall economic uncertainty. 
In Over Your Head (Posted on 10/11/2009)
A new publication shares tips for dealing with creditors, when to seek professional help and how to develop a self-directed repayment plan to reduce debts. 
An Apple A Day (Posted on 10/10/2009)
Does an apple a day, keep the doctor away? A medium sized apple has less than a 100 calories and is a good source of antioxidants. According to Barb Fuller, ISU Nutrition and Health Program Specialist, apples are also a great source of fiber and are easy to store. 
When Things Don’t Go Well, Help Your Child Succeed (Posted on 10/4/2009)
It’s natural for parents to try to soften the blow for their children when things don’t go well. Donna Donald, Family Life Program Specialist suggests parents affirm feelings, listen carefully, and then encourage the child to try again. 
High Tunnel Field Day (Posted on 9/19/2009)
Can you envision enjoying fresh, locally-grown fruits and vegetables for six months rather than three? This is a reality, not a dream. 
Changes Mean Endings and New Beginnings (Posted on 8/2/2009)
Major life change often triggers strong emotions and inner turmoil. Understanding the three phases of the transition process can help people deal with their reactions to a difficult change. 
Making Work Pay (Posted on 4/5/2009)
You can read more about the new American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provision that will result in less federal income tax withholding in your paycheck beginning in April. 
Making Dollars & Sense of Your Finance$ (Posted on 3/9/2009)
This new publication offers individuals and families useful and sensible financial information to navigate the recession and personal financial situations. 
Plan For Backyard Playground Safety (Posted on 3/8/2009)
Spring weather and backyard playgrounds are beckoning children. Here are suggestions to help improve the safety of your backyard play area. 
Managing Tough Times (Posted on 3/1/2009)
During today's uncertain economic times, Iowans must make the most of their money, knowledge and skills as they make decisions. 
Living With Your Teenager (Posted on 2/15/2009)
Being parents of teenagers is not for the faint hearted. But knowing what to expect makes parenting easier. 
Attitude Is Key to Enjoying Life (Posted on 1/11/2009)
How are you handling the realities of life? How we deal with our reality will make a different to how we handle life. 
Kids and TV: Limit Screen Time (Posted on 1/9/2009)
Does background television have any unintended consequences for children’s behavior and development? 
Stewards of Children Program (Posted on 12/30/2008)
One in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will be sexually abused before their 18th birthdays, but it doesn’t have to happen. YOU can help lower those numbers and protect the children in this community. 
Managing Money in Tough Times (Posted on 12/20/2008)
More Americans feel added stress and anxiety about their financial future as talk of rising consumer debt, falling housing prices, rising costs of living, and declining retail sales bring up worries about the nation’s economic health. 
Tools To Help Build Positive Relationships (Posted on 11/2/2008)
Building positive relationships with children is a lifelong task. Donna K. Donald, Iowa State University Extension Family Life Field Specialist, recommends five tools to help the effort which can yield lifelong rewards. 
Sources for Help with Prescription Drug Costs (Posted on 10/19/2008)
Help is available for individuals who are struggling with their prescription costs. If you lack coverage or find yourself in the donut hole of your current plan there are some possible solutions. 
Understand How Brain Style Affects Parenting (Posted on 9/7/2008)
Ever wonder why you and your child sometimes mix about as well as oil and water? It may be that your brain styles are opposites. By understanding the four brain styles, you and your child can get along and even learn to enjoy each other. 
Freezing Your Credit Report (Posted on 8/10/2008)
After July 1, 2008 Iowa consumers have the ability to freeze their credit reports. When should you use this service and how should it be managed? 
Talk To Children About Tough Times (Posted on 7/29/2008)
Many families are facing financial concerns that are causing changes in how they live. Be honest and open with your family about what is happening. Think about what message you want to sent to your children. 
Credit Report/Credit Score (Posted on 5/3/2008)
Credit reports and scores are a guide that impacts your ability to qualify for consumer loans, mortgages, rental property, employment, and insurance. The cost of using credit rises if your report contains negative information.
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