While there have been fair-related events for most of the week, the real meat and potatoes of the big event began yesterday, as the kids brought in their various projects and animals for showcase and judging. There is more fun to be had both today and tomorrow, so make sure you come down to the 4-H buildings at Riverside Park and check out all the hard work these kids have been putting into their projects.

The heart has been characterized as the engine that makes the human body run. If that metaphor is not exactly spoton, it still serves as a good indicator as to just how vital a healthy heart is to the human body.

Seniors and older adults did not seem to get the memo regarding inflation. As the world continues to navigate a cost-of-living increase, internal data from Bank of America indicates that Baby Boomers (people born between 1946 and 1964) and Traditionalists (individuals born between 1928 and 1945) are spending more while younger generations are cutting back. Between May 2021 and May 2022, spending by Traditionalists increased by more than 5 percent while Baby Boomer spending rose by 2.2 percent. That uptick occurred while younger generations’ spending fell by 1.5 percent.

Summer is officially here, the Fourth of July is just a few weeks away and most families celebrate with good food, friends, and even a few fireworks. Picnics are the perfect way to enjoy good weather, good company, and good food not only during July 4th, but throughout the summer. One run-in with food poisoning, though, can ruin your summer fun.

Warm weather generally translates to more time spent outdoors. That means more barbecues, days spent poolside, trips to the beach, and even camping excursions. This time of year also inspires people to celebrate. What better way to signal the party has started than with fireworks?

There is nothing better than sitting outside on a nice, cool morning in Independence with the breeze fluttering the leaves and the birds singing in the trees. Their song fills your ears and puts a song of its own in your heart most of the time. But sometimes you might hear a warble that doesn’t sound familiar to your well-tuned ears. What bird makes that kind of song, you ask yourself.

In honor of World Caring Day, a global celebration of compassion and support, we delve into the vital role of caregivers and the significance of selfcare in their lives. Whether you’re a parent, spouse, sibling, grandparent or other relative or friend caring for a loved one, you play a vital role in their well-being.

Summer is a season to enjoy some fun in the sun, but it’s imperative that people remember to take steps to reduce their risk for heat illness. Those measures should include efforts to hydrate and remain hydrated throughout the day. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that water will almost always help people remain hydrated even when they’re working in the heat. But food also plays a vital role in preventing heat illness, as the CDC notes eating regular meals can help to replace the salt lost through sweat. It’s also important that individuals avoid energy drinks and alcohol when spending time in the hot summer sun. Many energy drinks contain more caffeine than standard servings of coffee, tea and soft drinks, and excessive caffeine consumption can contribute to dehydration. The same can be said for alcohol, and the CDC reports that consuming alcohol within 24 hours of working in the heat can increase the risk of heat illness.

Hello, I am Valori Stone. I have been serving the Wildcat District as a Family and Community Wellness Agent for K-State Research and Extension since May 1st. I am serving all of the Wildcat District, which encompasses offices in Altamont, Fredonia, Girard, Independence and Pittsburg. I am based out of the Fredonia office located in Wilson County.

K-State Garden Hour | Wednesday, June 7th from 12:00 – 1:00p.m. Topic: Drought Tolerant Lawns of Kansas – Warm Season Turfgrasses Register for zoom at www.ksre-learn.com/KStateGardenHour Remote Work Professional Certification | June 8, 15, 22, 29 at 2pm or 7pm Register for online course at https://kansasremotework.