Weekly News and Columns

Week of May 11, 2026

Cuming County 4-H Council

The Cuming County 4-H Council will meet on Thursday, May 14, at 6:00 p.m. in the Cuming County Courthouse Meeting Room. The full agenda for the meeting is available for review at the Extension Office.

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SOURCE: Melissa Hagemeister, Extension Associate 

RELEASE DATE:  April 27, 2026

Extension Board to Meet

The Cuming County Extension Board will meet for their May meeting on Tuesday, May 26, at 7:00 p.m. in the Cuming County Courthouse Meeting Room. The agenda for the meeting is available for review at Nebraska Extension in Cuming County

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SOURCE: Alfredo DiCostanzo, Extension Educator

RELEASE DATE:  May 11, 2026

Getting the Most Out of Oat Pasture

Oats, spring triticale or barley planted early this spring will soon be ready for grazing. The potential seems great, but you may be disappointed if you don’t graze it right.

Oat pastures have increased in popularity in recent years. They can reduce problems from drought and provide fast, early grazing. Oat pastures can be very productive and last through early summer, but they also disappoint sometimes. While we don’t know all we need to know, here are a few grazing recommendations that will help you succeed.

Oats grows rapidly. Once it gets five or six inches tall, it quickly can shoot up to a foot tall in almost no time. As nice as this sounds, if initial oat growth gets that tall it may not stool out, tiller, and regrow after grazing very well. So, it’s important to start grazing early and to graze hard enough to keep your oats vegetative and leafy, thereby stimulating it to constantly form new tillers.

So how early is early? That’s hard to say, but if your animals start to first graze when oats get six to eight inches tall and they remove just half the growth it should recover rapidly and tiller well. You probably will need to give your oats a couple weeks to regrow after this first grazing, though, before grazing again.

After this first grazing stimulates tillering, keep oat regrowth between six and sixteen inches tall using either continuous or rotational stocking. Begin with a light stocking rate, maybe about one animal every two or three acres. Then adjust animal numbers as growth changes. Don’t worry if a few plants head out. But if many plants get tall and approach the boot stage, either stock heavily for one last hard graze-out grazing or consider cutting for hay.

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SOURCE: Jerry Volesky, Range & Forage Extension Specialist

RELEASE DATE: May 11, 2026

Grasshopper Management 

The 2026 rangeland grasshopper risk map from the USDA indicates there may be increased grasshopper activity in the eastern panhandle and southwestern Nebraska. Keeping an eye on fields this spring and summer can help mitigate economic loss from grasshopper feeding.

Grasshoppers tend to thrive in dry, hot conditions while outbreaks can be severely limited by cool, wet spring weather; however, it is still recommended that producers throughout the state scout their fields while grasshoppers are in the nymph stage and therefore easier to control. Degree-day models estimate that current grasshopper populations are still in the early nymph stage, making this the best time to scout pastures including field margins.

One of the best ways to scout for grasshoppers is to use the square foot method. Randomly select an area several feet away and visualize a one square-foot area around that spot. Walk toward this spot and count the number of grasshoppers you see in or jumping out of this area. Repeat this procedure 18 times and divide the total number of grasshoppers by two. This will give you the number of grasshoppers per square yard. Economic thresholds for grasshoppers range from 8 to 40 grasshoppers per square yard, depending on a variety of factors. Keep in mind that control is generally recommended before grasshoppers reach maturity.

For current insecticide recommendations for controlling grasshoppers in rangeland, forages, alfalfa, and other crops, please contact your county extension office.

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SOURCE: Samantha Daniel, 

Assistant Extension Educator Water & Cropping Systems

RELEASE DATE: May 11, 2026

Small Grain Forage Harvest 

Aa we work our way through spring, many small grains are maturing fast and nearing harvest windows. Are you ready to make the most out of these forage options?

Producers seeking hay should consider the animal being fed and feeding method before harvesting. For young growing cattle, small grain hay should be cut in the boot stage or as soon as possible following heading to ensure higher protein and energy content. Mature cow and feedlot managers may consider delaying their forage harvest until the hard dough development stage to increase forage quantity, since these cattle can utilize lower quality forage than younger beef animals. Small grains with awns like rye, triticale, and wheat can be a concern at later maturities. Grinding the hay, feeding in ration with additional moisture, or using an awnless (beardless) variety can reduce this risk.

No matter how you harvest, delaying can mean higher productivity. Nebraska studies have shown an 8 ton as harvested feed per acre increase between harvest at boot stage and soft dough on irrigated fields. The trade-off for delaying forage harvest was an 8% drop in crude protein content.

Another concern for silage harvesters is proper moisture when packing. A statewide study looking at 17 Nebraska producers found the biggest loss of small grain silage quality was packing too wet despite almost all producers having wilted the crop before packing. Silage packed too wet had almost 3 times the energy loss that those packed at proper moisture content Shoot for 70-72% moisture for proper packing. Study survey data showed producers who harvested at boot, heading, or pollination stage and wilted for 16 to 24 hours appeared more likely to achieve target moisture levels. 

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SOURCE: Ben Beckman, Extension Educator Livestock Systems

RELEASE DATE: May 11, 2026

YQCA Face-to-Face Training 

Cuming County Extension will be hosting a Face-to-Face training for 4-H youth ages 8-14 as of January 1 on Tuesday, May 26^th at 1:00 p.m. at the Cuming County Fairgrounds. To attend and become certified for the year, youth must pre-register online at yqcaprogram.org and pay the $3.00 registration fee. Youth must also take the pre-test and post-test before a certificate is verified. Once you are on the website, click on “Instructor-based training and find the date. (Please note when searching for the training that the dates are not in any particular order). During this training, youth will learn about animal well-being, food safety, and life skills. 

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SOURCE: Melissa Hagemeister, Extension Associate 

RELEASE DATE:  May 4, 2026

Summer 4-H Workshop Schedule

The following 2026 Cuming County 4-H Summer Workshops are  scheduled to-date. (The complete workshop listing is still being finalized.) The workshops are open to all youth, but 4-H youth will have priority when enrolling. Registration details can be found at cuming.unl.edu and all forms are due to the Extension Office with payment.

• Babysitting Basics – Monday, June 1, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (registration deadline, May 26^th)
• Let’s Paint – Wednesday, June 10, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon (registration deadline, June 3^rd)
• Tractor & Equipment Safety Certification Course – Wednesday & Thursday, June 10-11
• Crochet 101 - Thursday, June 18, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. (registration deadline, June 11th) 
• Cupcake Decorating – Wednesday, June 24, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon (registration deadline, June 17^th)

Class details are listed on our website. Contact the Extension Office to register. Workshop space is limited.

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SOURCE: Melissa Hagemeister, Extension Associate 

RELEASE DATE: May 4, 2026

4-H Enrollment Deadline Approaching 

June 15^th is the last day to drop or add 4-H projects for the year 2026. If you have not enrolled or re-enrolled in 4-H, you can do that by visiting v2.4honline.com. You can update your enrollment until June 15^th. After that deadline, no changes can be made if you want to bring projects to the Cuming County Fair in 2026. 

June 15^th is also the deadline for ALL 4-H livestock projects! Contact the Extension Office with any questions. 

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SOURCE: Melissa Hagemeister, Extension Associate 

RELEASE DATE:  May 4, 2026

Adventure Day Camp Registration is Now Open!

4-H Adventure Day Camp will be held on Thursday June 4^th at Neligh Park in West Point. This is open to youth ages 8-11 years old. 4-H members will have priority when registering. 

Registration will be completed online via Google Form. The deadline for registering is Thursday, May 28^th, at 4:30 p.m. Payment can be dropped off at the Cuming County Extension Office or mailed. All registrations, including payment, must be postmarked by the deadline. Please complete the registration by visiting this link: https://go.unl.edu/adventureday . Registration is also available on our website at cuming.unl.edu. 

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SOURCE: Melissa Hagemeister, Extension Associate 

RELEASE DATE:  May 4, 2026

We Need YOU … to be a 4-H Adventure Day Camp Counselor! 

Take your summer to the next level by becoming a 4-H Adventure Day Camp Counselor. Each year, we ask for youth ages 14 and older to volunteer to help provide a fun and safe experience for youth ages 8-11 at the annual 4-H Adventure Day Camp. Counselors must enjoy working with youth, can lead games and engage with youth, help presenters, and have fun! 

We ask that you also participate in the 4-H Adventure Day Camp Counselor training on Tuesday, June 2^nd from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Neligh Park. This is an important part of becoming a 4-H camp counselor. 

There is no fee for volunteering to become a 4-H Adventure Day Counselor. Please let us know that you are interested and register as a counselor at https://go.unl.edu/adventureday  and. If you have any questions, please contact the Extension Office at 402-372-6006. 

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SOURCE: Melissa Hagemeister, Extension Associate 

RELEASE DATE:  May 4, 2026

May, June dates set for annual tractor/equipment safety training for young and beginning farmers

UNMC’s Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health, in collaboration with Nebraska Extension, will oversee the courses.

The Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health (CS-CASH) at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Public Health, in partnership with Nebraska Extension, has announced the dates for its annual tractor and equipment safety training courses. The training will be offered at 12 locations across Nebraska throughout May and June.

“Tractors and agricultural equipment remain leading sources of serious injury and fatalities in farming, especially for young and beginning producers who are still gaining experience,” said course instructor Aaron Yoder, PhD, associate professor, UNMC and University of Nebraska- Lincoln. “The 2026 Annual Tractor and Equipment Safety Course provides essential, hands-on training that helps participants recognize hazards, develop safe operating habits and build confidence when working around powerful machinery.”

Federal law restricts youth under the age of 16 from operating certain farm equipment unless the farm is owned by their parents or legal guardians. However, certification through the National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program (NSTMOP) provides an exemption, allowing 14- and 15-year-olds to drive tractors and operate specific mechanized equipment.

In Nebraska, CS-CASH and Nebraska Extension work together to offer NSTMOP certification. This certification is earned by completing a two-day course that includes both a written test and a driving exam. Youth who complete the training are certified to operate tractors and certain mechanized equipment on farms and ranches and can also obtain a husbandry permit.

Course Details:

• Day One: The first day covers the essential components of NSTMOP, as well as additional training in emergency response, stop-the-bleed techniques, personal protective equipment, and other lifesaving skills.
• Day Two: The second day includes a hands-on driving test, equipment operation, and ATV safety lessons. Students will be required to demonstrate their ability to hitch and unhitch equipment, as well as drive a tractor and trailer through a standardized course. Instructors will also provide education on safe practices and legal guidelines for ATVs, utility task vehicles (UTVs), and other off-road vehicles (ORVs).

The cost for the two-day course is $60, which covers educational materials, online learning access (if applicable), supplies, and lunch and snacks for in-person training sessions.

Additional Information:

Youth under the age of 14 can attend Day One if accompanied by an adult, but they are not eligible to drive equipment, participate in Day Two or receive certification. Students under 14 must register, but they will not be charged a fee. New and beginning farmers who want to increase their knowledge about safe farm practices are also urged to register and attend.

• May 26-27 - Lincoln-Logan-McPherson County Extension Office, 348 W. State Farm Road, North Platte, Nebraska
• May 28-29 - Red Willow County Fairgrounds-4H Building, 1400 W. Fifth St., McCook, Nebraska
• June 1-2 - Legacy of the Plains Museum, 2930 Old Oregon Trail, Gering, Nebraska
• June 3 - Sheridan County Fairgrounds. 613 E. Third St., Gordon, Nebraska
• June 4-5 - AKRS Equipment, 49157 Douglas Ave., O’Neill, Nebraska
• June 8-9 - Raising Nebraska, 501 E. Fonner Park Road, Grand Island, Nebraska
• June 10-11 - Cuming County Fairgrounds, West Washington St., West Point, Nebraska
• June 23-24 - Dawson County Fairgrounds, 1002 Plum Creek Parkway, Lexington, Nebraska
• June 25-26 - Phelps County Fairgrounds, 1308 Second St., Holdrege, Nebraska
• June 29-30 - Valley County Fairgrounds, 801 South St., Ord, Nebraska
• July 1-2 - Ag Hall at Tuxedo Park, 1700 Tuxedo Park Road, Crete, Nebraska
• July 1-2 - Butler Country Fairgrounds, 62 L St., David City, Nebraska
• Virtual Module – For those attending a location that only offers Day One or are attending a location that offers both days but live 50 miles or more from the location. 

To get more information and to register, visit: https://www.unmc.edu/publichealth/cscash/outreach/farm-safety-days.html

Contact Ellen Duysen at ellen.duysen@unmc.edu with questions on the courses.

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Common Sense Farming and Ranching

Alfredo DiCostanzo, Beef Systems Extension Educator

University of Nebraska

Week of May 4, 2026

Consumer attitudes towards beef

May is beef month! 

This celebration is important to Cuming County beef producers and to all American beef producers. This celebration is a rallying point to kick off grilling season and to honor beef producers who work hard to produce food by managing land and cattle. 

As American beef producers celebrate beef month, it may be wise to revisit the US Bureau of Labor Statistics for data on expenditures by the American consumer. Revisiting expenditure data by Americans is important as prices for beef increased rapidly and reached highs not ever seen before. 

As cattle markets reach new highs, most economists addressing cattle prices and market trends feel the urge to include a comment, nearly a footnote in most reports, warning of an imminent end to consumer desire to pay high prices for beef cattle. Yet, most economists, and even cattle producers, have been surprised at the continued appetite for beef demonstrated by the American consumer despite increasing retail beef prices.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average price of all uncooked ground beef, roasts and steaks across US cities not adjusted for seasonality. Since 2016, prices of all these products increased from 50% to 54% in 2025. For those who might suspect that retail beef is resistant to negative trends in beef cattle prices, it is worthwhile noting that retail beef prices decreased up to 3% during 2017 to 2019. In 2024, ground beef, roast and steaks sold at prices 34%, 37% and 42% greater, respectively, than in 2016. 

The most recent consumer expenditure survey in 2024 (surveying over 100 million households by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics) demonstrated that the average American household (2.4 people) spent $408 a year on beef. This is an increase of 67% in beef expenditure over 2016 when the average household spent $244 a year for a household of 2.5 people. 

A few items to note:

• In 2024, the average American household spent $408 yearly to purchase beef; an increase of $164 (or 67%) since 2016.
• Although beef prices have been in the political spotlight since the 2022 election, the average American household also spent more in other meats such as pork and poultry. In 2024, the increases in expenditure by American households for pork and poultry since 2016 were 54% and 55%, respectively.
• During the same period, expenditures by the average American household for dairy products, which do not include milk or fresh cream, (cheese and ice cream) increased 81%.

One might ask why is the increase in beef expenditures 67% when price increase should account for only 56% of that increase? The answer, interestingly, lies in greater beef consumption.

If a composite price is made from the respective prices of ground beef, steaks and roasts with each contributing one-third, average retail price for beef was $5.74/lb and $7.97/lb, respectively, in 2016 and 2024. Dividing the beef expenditures from each year by this beef price composite resulted in average household consumption of 42 lb in 2016 and 51 lb in 2024. 

This represents a 1-lb increase in household consumption of beef every year since 2016. This is despite a trend for increasing beef prices particularly in the most recent years.

Although greater price pressure is expected due to tightening supplies in 2026, the trend for the American consumer to desire and pay for beef is clear. This provides sufficient reason to go into Beef Month with a positive outlook and to abstain from commenting on whether consumers will continue to crave the taste of beef because it has become expensive.

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Week of April 20, 2026

Beef is an experience

Sometime around the late 1980’s, I ran into a picture of a steak on a grill cut to reveal it was cooked rare. The caption on it was: “Beef is an experience.” 

For those of you in the beef industry who were around in the 1980’s, this picture and the caption would make sense. Generally, among beef eaters, there is little need for exulting in the virtues of beef flavor or nutritional value. Yet, at that time in the US (and the world), beef consumption was considered by many in the medical community to be associated with negative health outcomes including heart disease and even cancer. 

Articles in news media and popular magazines were commonly biased against beef consumption. At that time, most medical professionals and dieticians recommended to consumers a shift to white meat such as poultry with recommendations to limit red meat consumption for fear of its effects on vascular disease or cancer. In March of 1987, the National Pork Production Council jumped on the bandwagon and launched a campaign “Pork. The Other White Meat.” to combat the perception that pork was fatty and provided an alternative to beef (and poultry) consumers. Incidentally, although pork is a red meat, effectively this campaign changed the perception by the American public that pork is a white meat.

Later, at the turn of the 21^st century, additional information was generated which continued to promote a beef-free or beef-limited diet. The book “Livestock’s Long Shadow” was used by many beyond the medical community to add another reason to eat less or totally abstain from eating beef. Based on this, many activists proposed that eating a beef-free diet would reduce carbon emissions and help slow down global warming.

Posturing (and postulating) that abstaining from eating beef or eating less beef is somehow helpful to achieve a healthy diet and a healthy environment continues. Yet, to the amazement of many including promoters and detractors of beef consumption, beef continues to attract consumers and, more importantly, is finding new consumers in places where it was once least expected. 

Global beef consumption is on the rise. An FAO-based projection suggests that by 2034, global consumption of beef will increase 0.9 kg per capita. Although consumers in developed countries might shift to other protein sources, because of health or environmental reasons, consumers in developing countries are effectively increasing their appetite for beef. Countries in southeast Asia and in south America, beyond, Uruguay, Brazil and Argentina, are increasing production of beef.

What has driven this increased appetite for beef despite perceived health or environmental concerns?

One main reason: flavor. Back to the picture I found and its caption. Eating beef is an experience. An experience like no other experience a consumer has. 

When people learn they will be consuming beef, their senses alert them to a great flavor experience. Scientifically, the term that describes beef flavor is umami. To most people, this term means nothing until one realizes it describes a rich, meaty, iron-tasting flavor with notes of sweetness or nuttiness. In marbled and external fat-covered cuts, such as ribeye, the caramelized fat intensifies this experience. 

It is this experience that has maintained beef’s appeal despite negative press campaigns that have lasted over 40 years. Yet, it took producers and packers a target on marbling and muscling to deliver what American consumers demand most from beef flavor and wholesomeness. 

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Week of April 6, 2026

What happens in Texas!

Does not stay in Texas. Borrowing from the slang which refers to when someone misbehaves somewhere (such as in Las Vegas) knowledge of the deed remains in that location. Yet, for the purpose of this column, what might happen in Texas will not just affect Texas but other states including ours.

Responding to the threat of New World screwworm (NWSW) in November of 2024, USDA paused imports of feeder cattle from Mexico. A regional resumption of imports occurred about a year ago, but these efforts were stopped as discovery of infected cattle (and other livestock and pets) closer to the US border occurred in May of 2025.

Fast forward to early 2026: beef industry news outlets reported on renewed interest to resume imports of live feeder cattle from Mexico. As of this writing, advocates of resumption of feeder cattle imports suggest that specific ports of entry furthest from the eastern states in Mexico where live screwworm infestations continue (Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas) be considered for phase reopening.

Whether you are in support of this idea or not, two questions come to mind: 1) How is the absence of feeder cattle affecting the Texas cattle feeding industry? and 2) What are the long-term implications of a reduction in feeder calf supply (domestic and imported) on Texas agriculture?

Unfortunately, answers to the first question are beginning to surface. Late in February, Lubbock Feeders, a 50,000-head capacity feedlot in Lubbock, TX, made the decision to close. Reasons cited for the closure included the loss of feeder cattle sourced from Mexico. Mexican sourced feeder cattle made up to 70% of the total cattle on feed at Lubbock Feeders.

Overall, the suspension of imports of feeder cattle from Mexico resulted in a net loss of 1.1 million feeders, which is the average number of feeders imported from Mexico during the years 2022 to 2024. This short supply of feeder cattle became more significant as domestic feeder calf supply is also at an all-time low. 

High-priced feeders and high-priced grain (delivered in Texas) are real pressures on feedlot economics for Texas cattle feeders.

As Texas cattle feedlots cope with economic pressures greater than those experienced by feeders in states closer to grain production, the implications will affect the rest of the country, particularly grain-producing regions. 

With an average inventory of 2.5 million head of cattle on feed and a turnover rate of 2, Texas cattle feeders are expected to market 5 million head of grain-fed cattle a year. At average on-feed gain of 650 lb and a conversion ratio of corn grain to beef of 6 lb-to-1 lb, Texas cattle consume 400 million bushels of corn. Texas corn growers produce around 200 million bushels of corn. Therefore, Texas is a net grain importer to fulfill the needs of its feedlot industry.

If the Texas cattle feeding industry disappears, corn derived from approximately 200 million bushels will have to find other uses. This is the equivalent to the production of 1.1 million acres of corn (about one tenth of the corn-producing area of Nebraska).

Other major economic impacts will also be felt by the Texas and US economy. Assuming a labor ratio of 1 person to each 1,000 cattle on feed, unemployment resulting from closure of Texas feedlots may affect 2,500 individuals. 

The alternative: resuming imports of Mexican feeder cattle may not result in a speedy recovery for Texas feeders. Demand for feeders to be finished in Mexico is strong. Alternatively, if the NWSW fly is discovered in Texas (or any other southern US state), health regulations for cattle derived from those states will immediately tighten.

Therefore, it appears that there is no easy answers, but what might happen in Texas will not affect Texans only. 

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Rural Health

Hannah Guenther, Extension Educator

Week of May 11, 2026

Tan Lines Fade, Skin Damage Doesn’t

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United State with a 90% survival rate when treated before spreading to lymph nodes. With much more time spent outside in the sun, it is important to keep sun safety in mind. Here is a brief overview of skin cancer, self-screening practices, and finally some tips to protect your skin this summer. 

Skin is the largest organ of the body and is exposed to a variety of elements every day. Risk of skin cancer is increased from the following: excessive sun exposure, tanning beds, fair complexion, family history, smoking (smokers are 2 times more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma), having multiple moles, and skin that burns easily. Many will claim that their dark or olive complexion protects them from the risk of skin cancer, but skin cancer does not care about the color of your skin, everyone is at risk for developing skin cancer! 

As mentioned, skin cancer has a high survival rate when detected early! There are two methods of screening: self and clinical. Self-screening requires taking inventory of your skin to take note of any changes. Try to self-screen once a month and use the ABCD’s. Look for Asymmetry, irregular Border, uneven Color, and finally check the Diameter to see if it has changed in size. If you have a mole that is questionable, make an appointment with a dermatologist or your healthcare provider to do a clinical screening. I recently started getting annual skin checks and I truly look forward to them. It’s an easy way to take control of my health through preventative care. 

With the heat of summer upon us, let’s talk through some tips to practice sun safety: 

1. 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. is the window of time with the strongest rays, if you are at risk of skin cancer you will want to avoid sun exposure during this time. 
2. SPF 30 is high enough sunscreen to block 90% of UV rays, but you need to apply 30 min before going outside and reapply every 2 hours in water. 
3. Sun Protective Clothing is a great option for individuals who work outside year-round. Long sleeves, sunglasses, and a hat that covers ears and the back of your neck is a great summer uniform for sun safety! 

At the end of the day, sun safety doesn’t have to mean avoiding summer fun. It’s about building small habits that protect your skin for the long run. Whether it’s throwing on a hat, seeking shade, scheduling outdoor time wisely, or remembering sunscreen before heading out the door, those simple choices can make a big difference. Your skin is with you for life, so take care of it!

For more information you can go to: https://www.nebraskamed.com/cancer/skin

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Week of April 27, 2026

Hydration Without the Hype: What Your Body Actually Needs

The other day Charlotte called me frantically because she forgot her 30oz water bottle at home. I thought to myself – are there not water fountains at school? This had me reflecting on my school days where the only water I drank was a “1 Mississippi, 2 Mississippi, 3 Mississippi” and I survived just fine. Gone are the days of 3 gulps of water and enter a world of giant water bottles, constant sipping, and daily electrolyte packets. Hydration status has gotten a little out of hand and our body is very good at telling us when it is thirsty. So today let’s go back to the basics and talk about hydration without the hype. 

How much water do you actually need?

So, this is actually a loaded question because your body is unique and depending on your sex, weight, activity status, pregnant or not, you will need varying amounts of water but a reasonable hydration goal for women is 90oz and about 125 oz for men. Now, that might seem like a lot, but what some people fail to realize is that this includes ALL FLUIDS. Coffee, sodas, teas, milk, and even high-water foods contribute to this amount. 

But how do I know if I am dehydrated?

Our body is very good at communicating, you just need to be aware of what it is telling you! One of the easiest ways to know if you are hydrated is your urine. 

• If you go to the bathroom and it looks like lemonade – good job, you are well hydrated!
• If you go the bathroom and it looks like apple juice – you need to drink more water.
• If you go to the bathroom and it is clear all the time – you may be overdoing it. 

Yes, it is possible to drink too much water! Drinking too much water can head to hyponatremia and can dilute sodium levels in the body which can disrupt fluid balance. 

But what about my electrolytes?

Electrolytes are important but they have a ‘health halo’ around them. Most of us get plenty of electrolytes (salt, potassium, magnesium) from the foods we eat. There are some instances when I think electrolytes are appropriate and that is if you are sweating heavily (detasseling in the middle of summer), if you are sick with vomiting and diarrhea, if you are exercising intensely for 60-90+ minutes (running a marathon). 

As I write this next to my emotional support water bottle, I want to remind you all that drinking water is an important part of a healthy diet but don’t overcomplicate it. If your energy is steady, your mouth isn’t dry, and your urine looks like lemonade, you’re probably doing just fine.

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Week of March 30, 2026

Easy Entertaining

I was recently at a color appointment with Connee Reimer (shout out to Connee! I told you I would write this article) when my mom called to ask if I was ready for the evening. In my true Type C fashion, I knew I was forgetting something, but I couldn’t remember what it was. My mom was quick to remind me that I had said I was willing and able to make dinner for my blended family of 10, plus significant others and children. I wish I could say this was the first time this had happened, but it wasn’t.

I love hosting and feeding people, but planning ahead is not my strong suit. Eating together is such a blessing, and in order to make it a positive experience for everyone including the one preparing the food, it is key to have a couple of easy recipes in your back pocket that are sure to be crowd pleasers. Today, I am sharing a few tips, tricks, and recipes to help you entertain with ease.

Jalapeño Shredded Beef

No one is going to be upset if tacos are on the menu, and one of my favorites is jalapeño shredded beef tacos because the crockpot does all the heavy lifting.

In your crockpot, add:

• 1 beef roast
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 packet ranch seasoning
• 1/2 jar sliced jalapeños, with juice
• 2 cups beef broth 

I love using a mock tender roast because it is very lean and does not require trimming excess fat. Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours. Shred the beef and serve with your usual taco fixings.

Gluten-free tip: Gluten allergies or intolerances are common, so it is very important to ask about food allergies before preparing food. Tacos can be extremely gluten-friendly if you serve rice instead of tortillas and double-check that your seasoning packets are gluten free.

Cilantro tastes like soap? In addition to asking about food allergies, another ingredient to be aware of is cilantro. Some individuals have a gene variation that affects the way they taste certain foods, including cilantro. For those with the OR6A2 variation, cilantro can taste like soap. I do not know about you, but I do not want soapy tacos.

Homemade Pizza

This past week, we had two family funerals, which meant lots of family time and lots of big meals. I took the lead on one of those meals, and since it was the last Friday of Lent, I wanted to make sure everyone felt included. Not everyone there was Catholic, but pizza felt like an easy crowd-pleaser for all. It was a huge hit. Like tacos, homemade pizza is rarely frowned upon. Making homemade dough and sauce is so simple, but it makes the meal feel extra special.

For your homemade pizza sauce, place the following in a blender:

• 1 large can diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 

Pulse until combined. Spread evenly on your homemade dough and toppings of choice! Bake at 495 for 20-25 minutes. 

At the end of the day, people won’t remember if everything was perfectly planned, they will remember how they felt sitting around your table. And that’s what entertaining is all about.

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