All-America Selections tests and introduces new flowers and vegetables each year that have done well in trials across North America. These plant winners have been “Tested Nationally and Proven Locally” for garden superiority by horticulture professionals. Any of these veggies or flowers would be great additions to your garden!
To see what varieties made the list check out- https://all-americaselections.org/product-category/year/2021/
By: Cassie Homan
When you find yourself indoors during the bitter cold days of winter, pick up a book and enjoy active reading! Reading with a child or friend will keep both of your minds exploring new things and enhances relationships.
Reading can provide an opportunity to connect with those separated by distance. You can read together during a video chat or have a book club that meets by phone or video! Adults may also be finding themselves helping youth with their academics, and active reading can make the experience rewarding for all!
As you dig into reading, check out this K-State Research and Extension resource to help make sure your time is filled with quality learning experiences and lots of fun! Emergent Literacy: Helping Young Children’s Development through Reading ― https://www.bookstore.ksre.k-state.edu/pubs/MF3161.pdf
By: Nora Rhoades
Quinoa pronounced (Keen-wah) is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine of the essential amino acids the human body needs to stay in a healthy balance. According to The Whole Grains Council, whole grain quinoa is rich in copper, protein, fiber, and iron, and the B vitamins thiamine (B1) and pyridoxine (B6). Quinoa is also an excellent source of magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, and folic acid.
Quinoa is highly versatile
and is often used for both warm and cold grain salads. Quinoa is also popular in side dishes and pilafs. It’s especially suited for pairing with Latin American ingredients like corn, black beans, avocado, citrus, and cilantro. Be sure to rinse well before cooking. One serving of cooked quinoa (¼ cup, uncooked) has 160 calories, 3 grams of fiber and 6 grams of protein.
To cook quinoa, cook one cup of dried grain with 2 cups of liquid. Bring to a boil then simmer for 12 to 15 minutes yielding 3 cups of cooked grain. A recipe for quinoa strawberry salad can be found here.
Source: Whole Grains Council
By: Ashley Svaty
The Social Security Administration announced the cost-of living adjustment (COLA) for Social Security benefits will be a 1.3%, increase for 2021. If you are on Medicare and receiving Social Security benefits, the 
premium for Medicare Part B is deducted from your benefits. Medicare Part B, covers mainly physician services, outpatient hospital services, lab, durable medical equipment, and ambulance. The majority of Medicare beneficiaries who have Medicare Part B in 2021 will pay $148.50 per month. Social Security will tell you the exact amount you will pay for Part B in 2021 as some beneficiaries pay less or more than this.
Have questions about being New to Medicare, concerns about your 2021 Medicare Part D Plan, or other Medicare questions? Brenda Langdon, Family Resource Management Agent, can help answer these questions. If you need assistance, call for an appointment.
By: Brenda Langdon
Did you pick up a new hobby this past year? Many of us had some extra time at home and were able to try out new activities. Feeding and watching birds brings some excitement to the outdoors during the winter months. Join us for a Zoom Webinar Monday, February 22 at 6:00 p.m. Visit our website to register so we can send you the Zoom Link.
Contact Cassie Homan (785-738-3579) is you have any questions.
To register for the webinar, follow this link: https://www.postrock.k-state.edu/events/
By: Cassie Homan
The Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety and lodging program will offer monthly online webinars on food safety issues. The free webinar series will cover a variety of food safety issues that are of interest to food business operators, managers and workers. Monthly online webinars will cover a variety of food safety issues that are of interest to food business operators, managers and workers.
Each 30-minute webinar will consist of a presentation by food safety and lodging inspectors from across the state, followed by an opportunity for participants to ask questions of the presenters and other KDA-FSL staff. There is no cost to participate, but you must register below to receive the login access information.
Webinars begin at 3:00 p.m. Central.
February 22 Choosing the Right Practice: Cooling and Reheating of Foods
March 29 Food Safety on the Go: Food Trucks, Trailers, Tents and Carts
April 26 Staying Ahead of the Game: What Food Service Managers Need to Know
May 24 Dealing With Pests in a Food Establishment
June 28 Limiting the Spread of Germs: How Employees Can Make a Difference
By: Ashley Svaty
Explore job opportunities with K-State Research and Extension Post Rock District at postrock.ksu.edu. We are eager to add great talent to our team! K-State Research and Extension Post Rock District is an equal opportunity provider and employer. A criminal background check is required.
By: Nora Rhoades
