Local Interest

The challenges that we have all faced since the onset of COVID-19 are still present. The holiday season is upon us and for some us the holiday season adds to one’s stress level. As individuals and families plan holiday gatherings, many are wondering how topics about politics, health, wealth, or a favorite sport team will come up in conversation. Additionally, children and young people may experience a variety of emotions during the holidays and have a difficult time expressing themselves in words which can lead to misguided behaviors and hurt feelings. Whether it is an adult chat after a holiday meal or a conversation with children after opening presents, using good communication skills can prevent misunderstandings and avoid heart ache. Below are some strategies to help youth (and adults) communicate throughout the holidays.

David Lott Horticulture Extension Educator with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension in North Platte, Nebraska.

It's that time of year again to select fresh cut Christmas trees to enjoy for the holiday season. Here are some simple tips to follow on selecting and keeping a tree in good condition in a home or office.

The holidays are often a time filled with joy as many reunite with family or friends not seen on a regular basis. Holiday gatherings are time to share special traditions such as favorite recipes, playing games, watching movies or just “catching up”. This year might be particularly special since families may have been unable to gather last year due to COVID-19. Holiday gatherings help children, youth, and adults create social connection whether meeting face to face or virtually. Intentionally building connections can make gatherings with family or friends more impactful.

Tammie Ostdiek, Extension Educator - Food, Nutrition and Health 

Healthy eating is important throughout the year, but the holidays create unique challenges. 

The holidays can be notorious for rich foods and overeating. But with a commitment to stick to nutrition goals, New Year’s resolutions can focus on something other than weight loss. 

Here are a few sensible tips for maintaining healthy practices through the holiday season. 

Plan meals using MyPlate guidelines from USDA. Fill half the plate with colorful vegetables and fruits, one-fourth with protein, and one-fourth with grain. Choose whole grain whenever possible. Add low fat dairy options. 

Gary Stone – Water & Integrated Cropping Systems Extension Educator; Jessica Groskopf – Extension Educator for Agricultural Economics; John Thomas - Water & Integrated Cropping Systems Extension Educator; Xin Qiao – Irrigation & Water Management Specialist; David Ostdiek – Communications Specialist, Panhandle REC

In the months following the collapse of Tunnel No. 2 on the Goshen / Gering-Fort Laramie main canal in July 2019, temporary repairs were made to Tunnels No 1 and 2.  Steel ribs were installed inside the tunnels to support the concrete tunnel walls.

Dipak Santra, Alternative Crops Breeding Specialist
Dave Ostdiek, Communication/Technology Associate
UNL Panhandle Research and Extension Center

Can winter field peas, planted in September and harvested the middle of the following summer (like winter wheat), work as part of the dryland cropping rotations in the Nebraska Panhandle? The question is being studied by the alternative crops breeding program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Panhandle Research and Extension Center at Scottsbluff.

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