Author: Kelly Royalty

Week 3 Message – Exploring the Heart of it All

Greetings!

With the cooler weather settling in (or at least some of us hope we will see some cooler temps soon), fall is the perfect time to cozy up with a good book—and your local library is the ideal place to start! Whether you’re looking for new releases, classic novels, or even attending library events, there’s something for everyone this season. Libraries offer a welcoming space to unwind, discover new stories, and take advantage of all the resources available to support your personal growth and well-being.

I hope you’ll take some time this fall to explore what the Clermont County Public Library has to offer!

We hope you will join us this Wednesday, November 6th at 12:00 pm for a 30-minute webinar: Take a Look Inside the Book – Reading and Brain Health. The webinar is free, but registration is required at go.osu.edu/lhlwwebinars.

Be Well!
Kelly and Margaret 

Margaret Jenkins
Extension Educator
Family and Consumer Sciences
Ohio State University Extension, Clermont County

Kelly Royalty
Extension Educator
4-H Youth Development / Family and Consumer Sciences
Ohio State University Extension, Clermont County

Take a Look Inside a Book!

Today we are in Central Ohio – home of the state capital, Columbus. Central Ohio has a lot to offer visitors and residents alike and today we are going to explore the Columbus Metropolitan Main Library! This library is situated in downtown Columbus and hosts a variety of events open to the public. Currently, they are hosting a series of author talks of today’s most popular books, as well as toddler story times, a “How to Adult” series, business and grants resource advisors, and so much more. Even if you aren’t local to the Columbus area, you can still take part in their virtual events – check out the schedule here. Of course, there are also lots of books to be borrowed at the Columbus Metropolitan Library as well – they take part in the inter-library exchange program with other libraries around Ohio, so the next time you borrow a library book – look to see if it came from “CML”!

Libraries are great resources to any community and can increase our health and wellness at any age. For adults, reading can reduce stress levels – in some cases, more than walking, listening to music, or playing video games. Reading can also increase empathy for adults. When we read, we are immersing ourselves in another culture, time period, profession, or sometimes even in another world. This exposes individuals to different ideas and aids in understanding different life experiences, creating a more empathetic audience. Studies also support that readers are good for their communities – they often volunteer more than twice as often as non-readers.

Reading can also have a positive impact on our brain health. As we age, our working memory (the ability to hold thoughts in our mind for a short period as we engage with it) tends to decline in its ability. A study conducted in Illinois showed that a group of older adults who read for 90 minutes, 5 days a week, for 8 weeks showed improvements to working memory, when compared with a similar group who completed word puzzles instead of reading. Researchers suggested that the “magic juice” of the study was that the books participants read were engaging and readers were “immersed in a story.”

Of course, reading is also important for the brain development of our youngest readers and pre-readers. Infants can listen to the adults in their lives read to them and pick up on language as they prepare to say their first words. Research shows that the quantity of words matters when babies are learning language, but also the quality of the words – that is the diversity of the words they are hearing. For toddlers and preschoolers, reading can encourage children to think new ideas and increase understanding and critical thinking. When you are reading to children, stop and ask them questions about the story or see if they can connect the story to their own lives. This is an interactive type of reading called dialogic reading. Need some books to read to your child? There is always plenty to choose from at your local library, but also consider registering your child for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, where they will receive a free book every month until the age of 5. Learn more about this program here.

For additional information on Central Ohio parks, festivals, nature, tours, and historic attractions check out  https://ohio.org/home/regions/central.

Call to Action: Visit your local library (or add your library card to apps like Hoopla or Libby) to check out a new book. Whether a physical book, eBook, or audiobook, aim to read for 15 minutes each day. If you are able, add a little more reading time to your schedule!

Writer: Jessica Lowe, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Pickaway County lowe.495@osu.edu

Reviewer: Lisa Barlage, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Ross County, barlage.7@osu.edu

Youth and Club End-of-Year Awards

Clermont County 4-H wants to recognize its members for their hard work and participation in the program throughout the year.  4-H members are encouraged to submit an application for the 4-H Clover Award and  Outstanding 4-H’er Award. All award winners and recipients will be recognized on February 8, 2025 at the 4-H Member Recognition Celebration.

Outstanding 4-H’er Award
The Clermont County 4-H Committee will once again select a 4-H member to receive the “Outstanding 4-H’er Award.”.  The Outstanding 4-H’er Award is meant to honor a 4-H member(s) for their performance, dedication, and passion for the 4-H program.  Applicants must be a current 4-H member, complete the award application in its entirety, have the support of his/her 4-H advisor, and attend the 4-H Member Recognition Celebration in February.

True Leaders in Service Award
The Clermont County True Leaders in Service Award is an award recognizing 4-H clubs for their implementation of community service projects that positively impact their community. Service projects must have been completed between November 1, 2023 and October 31, 2024.

Honor Club Award
Honor club is a prestigious award given to 4-H clubs who meet a minimum standard of activities. There are 14 requirements that are mandatory. Additionally, clubs must meet 16 of the 38 non-mandatory requirements. Clubs will receive a gift for their achievement.

4-H Clover Award
A 4-H Clover Award is an award that recognizes 4-H members, at least 8 years old and in 3rd grade to age 19, for his/her involvement in the Clermont County 4-H Program. Members earn points for their participation in 4-H club, county, district, state, national and international events and activities. Please submit only one application per person.

All forms are due by Monday, November 25.

Applications are now open for Ohio 4-H Delegates to the 2025 National 4-H Conference!

Any 4-H member in Ohio ages *14-18 is able to apply by completing the Qualtrics survey linked below in this email.

Basic Information:

  • National 4-H Conference is specifically focused on civic engagement, civic education, and personal development. Delegates arrive ready to connect, learn, engage, lead, and impact their communities, their nation, and their world. In 2024, National 4-H Conference returns for youth delegates to attend in-person in Washington, D.C., April 10-16, 2025 (Ohio delegates arrive a day early on April 10. Conference begins April 11).
  • Interested Ohio 4-H members must complete an application via Qualtrics (linked at bottom) by December 1 at 11:59 p.m. *Applicants must be 15-18 as of January 1, 2025, and currently enrolled as an Ohio 4-H member in 2025.
  • After an application is received, the State 4-H Office will request a referral from county 4-H professional for the respective candidate.
  • A selection board of advisors, 4-H educators, and past attendees will review applications and conduct interviews, as needed.
  • Those selected will be expected to fully engage in all pre-conference and conference activities and adhere to all National 4-H guidelines, complete all required work as a result of conference participation, and share knowledge gained with Ohio 4-H upon their return.
  • More information about the opportunity can be found on the website: https://go.osu.edu/N4HC

Apply for free to Ohio State’s regional campuses in Lima, Mansfield, Marion, Newark and Wooster (ATI)!

To align with our mission of affordability and accessibility, we’re covering the $60 application fee for first-year applicants who apply directly to a regional campus between October 1 and December 1. Our regional campuses are already dedicated to providing Ohio students and families with an excellent college education at one of the lowest tuition rates in the state.

Just enter fee waiver code RCW2025 when prompted in the online application to your regional campus of choice by December 1 for these big benefits:

  • No application fee
  • Automatic consideration for scholarships
  • Quick admissions decision (typically under three weeks!)

This fee waiver code is exclusively available for first-year applicants to an Ohio State regional campus in Lima, Mansfield, Marion, or Newark, or ATI in Wooster. Note: If you’re planning to apply to the Columbus campus, you should submit the Common Application and not an application to a regional campus.

Admission criteria
If you have never attended college, you can be admitted to a regional campus if you are an Ohio resident with a degree from an accredited high school or a GED. Note that:

  • Qualified transfer students must have — at the time of application — a cumulative GPA of 2.0 (on a 4.0 scale) on all college course work earned after high school graduation.
  • Home-schooled applicants must submit an approved “excuse from attendance” verification (or equivalent) provided by a local school district or state official. Refer to your state’s Department of Education website to determine the specific document your state uses.

Campus-change program
Regional campus students in good academic standing may switch to the Columbus campus any time after they have completed 30 semester hours. Some programs may have more rigorous enrollment criteria, so you’ll work with an advisor to plan and prepare.

  • A reasonable plan for a student to complete 30 semester hours: Enroll in at least 15 hours for autumn semester and 15 hours for spring semester during your first year.

Preparing to apply
Read about applying step-by-step: Freshmen applicants  |  Transfer applicants

 

Week 2 Message – Exploring the Heart of it All

Greetings!

Ready to spice up your plate and boost your health? Exploring local foods is like embarking on a culinary treasure hunt right in your backyard! Not only do these fresh, vibrant ingredients pack a nutritional punch, but they also tell the delicious stories of our communities. From farmer’s markets bursting with color to hidden gems in neighborhood eateries, diving into local cuisine is an adventure that nourishes both body and soul. Join us as we uncover the health benefits of savoring local flavors and why your taste buds—and your well-being—will thank you for the journey!

We hope you will join us each Wednesday at 12:00 pm for a 30-minute webinar. The webinar is free, but registration is required at go.osu.edu/lhlwwebinars.

Be Well!

Kelly and Margaret

Margaret Jenkins
Extension Educator
Family and Consumer Sciences
Ohio State University Extension, Clermont County

Kelly Royalty
Extension Educator
Family and Consumer Sciences / 4-H Youth Development
Ohio State University Extension, Clermont County

Exploring Local Foods

As we explore more of the state each week, one way to tour the “Heart of it All” is through our stomachs! Local foods are one of the easiest ways to get a taste of a community. Whether you are buying from a farmers’ market or supporting a roadside stand, local foods are an essential part of the Ohio economy supporting consumers, producers, and communities across the state. From Buckeye candy and Cincinnati Chili to pawpaws and Johnny Marzetti, Ohio is known for some iconic treats and eats.

This week, as we explore Southwestern Ohio, there are great local food stops to make along the way!  Consider finding an open-air public market. In Cincinnati you can enjoy food from Ohio’s “oldest continuously operated public market,” the Findlay Market! This market prides itself in not only buying local but supporting the community around it, becoming one of Cincinnati’s points of pride. Each of the stalls provides something new for the eye from local meat and butcher shops to a family-run and operated bakery. Findlay Market is a staple of local foods in Southwestern Ohio.

Even if you do not have time to head down to Findlay Market, there are benefits to supporting your local producers. However, the definition of “local” when discussing local foods is often debated. Many agencies argue whether local foods are 150 miles, a day’s drive, or just anywhere in the state. In the 2008 Farm Bill, the USDA defines local food as food or products moved “less than 400 miles from its origin, or within the State in which it is produced.” Though the definition may not be super clear to all, the benefit of local is undeniable!

Local foods have real health and economic impacts beyond just supporting a farmer or producer close to you. Since there is less time between farm to fork, local foods provide increased nutrients, freshness, and support seasonal eating habits. They not only taste better, but also are better for the bottom line. Research shows that by removing the middleperson, transporting the supplies shorter distances, and lowering the production costs, the consumer pays less for a locally produced product. Of course, buying local also keeps your dollars closer with the hope that you are reinvesting into the communities you live, work, and play in.

How can you find locally made or produced food? Let’s explore what may tell us we have a “locally” produced food or item. You can look for the Ohio Proud sticker at your local farmers market or grocery store. This label on foods shows when a product has been made and or grown in Ohio. You can also visit the local Farmers Market and explore roadside stands. Take time to learn about what producers are growing seasonally. Seasonal eating is one of the easiest ways to ensure you are getting the freshest food. Local eating is easier when we know what’s growing down the street!

Call to Action: Go to your local farmers market or grocery store and look for the Ohio Proud label and see where it was made and or grown!

Writer: Ryan Kline, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Ross County, kline.375@osu.edu

Reviewer: Shari Gallup, Assistant Professor and Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Licking County, gallup.1@osu.edu

Ohio State University Extension is part of the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences at The Ohio State University.

Ohio State University Extension — Clermont County
1000 Locust Street, Owensville, Ohio 45160
royalty.9@osu.edu| clermont.osu.edu

CFAES provides research and related educational programs to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis. For more information, visit cfaesdiversity.osu.edu.
For an accessible format of this publication, visit cfaes.osu.edu/accessibility.

Week 1 Message – Exploring the Heart of it All

Greetings!

Are you ready to embark on a journey to better health and well-being? As part of our Live Healthy, Live Well Challenge, we’re diving into one of life’s most enriching experiences: travel!

Traveling isn’t just an adventure for the soul; it’s a powerful boost for your physical and mental health. From exploring new cultures and cuisines to enjoying the great outdoors, every trip offers unique benefits that can rejuvenate your mind and body. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a cross-country road trip, let’s discover how to make travel a key part of our healthy lifestyle!

Be Well!

Kelly and Margaret

Margaret Jenkins
Extension Educator
Family and Consumer Sciences
Ohio State University Extension, Clermont County

Kelly Royalty
Extension Educator
Family and Consumer Sciences / 4-H Youth Development
Ohio State University Extension, Clermont County

Adventures in Your Ohio Backyard

Travel has an undeniable appeal, beckoning us to explore new cultures, and try new experiences. Beyond the thrill of adventure, travel offers a multitude of benefits that can enhance our lives. This week we will explore into the transformative benefits of travel while focusing on travel destinations in Northwest Ohio.

One advantage of travel is the opportunity to encounter diverse cultures and ways of life. When we experience different traditions, languages, and foods, we broaden our worldview. These experiences help us increase our empathy and understanding. This allows us to challenge personal assumptions and expand our perspectives. Opportunities for this exist in our Ohio backyards. For example, visitors of the Toledo Museum of Art can view an extensive collection of European art, participate in an event or take a class.

Traveling with loved ones strengthens bonds. Shared experiences, from conquering a hiking trail to seeing new sights can foster connection. These adventures often lead to shared stories that deepen relationships and create lifelong memories. For thrill seekers, try traveling to Sandusky Ohio to experience the fun offerings of Cedar Point Amusement Park. It’s full of adventurous rollercoasters that are sure to provide stories for years to come. For nature enthusiasts, Wildwood Preserve Metroparks in Toledo features scenic trails, picnic areas excellent for picture taking, hiking, and enjoying nature.

Travel can be a source of inspiration. New destinations stimulate our creativity by exposing us to different art forms, architecture, restaurants and lifestyles. Artists, and writers often cite travel as a key piece in their creative processes. Seeing new sites may ignite exciting new ideas and refresh our spirit. Put-in Bay on South Bass Island may be a great place to find this kind of inspiration. The bay along with Perry’s Victory and the International Peace Memorial offer stunning views. Wineries and outdoor activities such as biking and kayaking also make this a popular place to visit, along with charming local shops and streets.

Every journey we embark on offers us a chance to learn—whether it’s about history, geography, or local customs. Visiting historical sites can provide insight that just reading or hearing about simply cannot offer. Travel can be extra memorable when it becomes a hands-on experience. For an Ohio learning opportunity consider history Sauder Village in Archbold. Explore an historic village, gardens, exhibits, and visit with craftsmen. If history is one of your loves, continue on to one of Ohio’s many charming towns in the Northwest such as Waterville, Perrysburg, or Sylvania. All feature beautiful views and charming waterfront streets to explore.

The benefits of travel extend far beyond “getting away”. Travel enriches our lives, offers opportunities for personal growth, and fosters connections. Whether it’s a day trip or just a weekend getaway, the experiences we gain from our travel adventures can create lasting memories and growth. So, when you are ready to pack your bags, don’t forget about the beautiful and exciting destinations in your own Ohio backyard!

Call to Action: Look up a new adventure in your local area and plan to visit it with your loved ones.

Writer: Alisha Barton, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Miami County, barton.345@osu.edu

Reviewer: Kate Shumaker, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Holmes County, shumaker.68@osu.edu

 Ohio State University Extension is part of the College of Food, Agricultural, and
Environmental Sciences at The Ohio State University.

Ohio State University Extension — Clermont County
1000 Locust Street, Owensville, Ohio 45160
royalty.9@osu.edu| clermont.osu.edu

CFAES provides research and related educational programs to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis. For more information, visit cfaesdiversity.osu.edu.
For an accessible format of this publication, visit cfaes.osu.edu/accessibility.

What to Do When You AAAAAAACCCHHOOOOOO!

It is that time of year again! Youth are back in school, cold and flu season is upon us, and once cold weather arrives, we might be spending more time indoors. All these factors mean an increase in the risk of illness. But do not worry. There are a few simple things you can do to stay healthy this fall and winter. After all, the fourth H is Health!

To learn more check out the latest article from the 4-H Cloverbud Connections

National Ignite by 4-H Summit Ohio 2025 Delegation

Ignite by 4-H is a national summit designed to bring high school youth (between 13-18) together from across the country and give them the opportunity to explore the best 4-H has to offer in different tracks including STEM, Agriscience, and Healthy Living. A hallmark of Ignite is the Lead to Change campaign which empowers youth to be Agents of Change where you (as a delegation) will create and present a proposal to address issues within your community. The best proposals are then awarded funding for implementation. In 2025, Ignite by 4-H returns for youth to attend in-person in Washington D. C. during March 12-16, 2025.

 Who: High School Aged Teens (13-18) interested in Agriscience, Healthy Living or STEM

Where: Washington, DC (Marriott Marquis – 901 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC)

When: Wednesday, March 12th – Sunday, March 16th

Application: Apply online at go.osu.edu/4Hignite by November 1 at 11:59pm

Cost: Selected delegates will have summit registration and travel expenses covered

Exploring the Heart of It All Pre-Challenge Message

Let’s Hit the Road Together!

As we embrace the beauty of fall, it’s the perfect time to focus on our health and well-being. We invite you to participate in our Live Healthy Live Well Fall Email Wellness Challenge!

Each week, you’ll receive tips, resources, and fun activities to help you stay active, nourish your body, and cultivate mindfulness. Let’s support each other on this journey to a healthier lifestyle!

Ready to fall into wellness? Sign up now and let’s make this season our healthiest yet!

Be Well!
Kelly and Margaret

Margaret Jenkins
Extension Educator
Family and Consumer Sciences
Ohio State University Extension, Clermont County

Kelly Royalty
Extension Educator
4-H/ Family and Consumer Sciences
Ohio State University Extension, Clermont County

Welcome to our Fall 2024 email challenge! We are excited to have you join as we spend time “Exploring the Heart of it All”.  Each week of the challenge we will explore the great benefits of living and visiting Ohio.  We will highlight regions of the state and introduce you to places to visit, shop, and eat!

  • To start the challenge off – please take the pre-challenge survey. The survey should only take a few minutes to complete and will be open until October 27 at midnight. Our team will use this information to track your progress.
  • Print or download the Challenge Bingo Card, to help you track your progress in trying new things throughout the Challenge. You may even be able to use your completion of this Challenge to earn points for your employee wellness program. The card is attached to this email.
  • Be sure to register for the weekly Wednesday webinar series at: go.osu.edu/lhlwwebinars. The webinars will give us a chance to provide a little more information on each week’s topic. At Noon for 30 minutes. Webinars are recorded and anyone registered will receive a link to the recording.
  • If you enjoy reading, consider signing up for our virtual Buckeye Bookworms Book Club reading “Faking Christmas” by Kerry Winfrey. The next series will meet on Thursdays, October 24, November 7 and 21, and December 5 from 6 – 7 PM. Meetings are recorded if you can’t be on live. Registration go.osu.edu/fcsbookclub.
  • If you are diabetic, pre-diabetic, or just interested in wellness consider joining our Ohio State University Extension colleagues for their “Diabetes Awareness Month Webinar Series” on Fridays, November 1, 8, 15, and 22 starting at Noon. Sign up at go.osu.edu/diabetesseries. Sessions are recorded.

We invite you to check out our blog and Facebook page for additional wellness topics.

Feel free to email us during the challenge with comments or tell us things that are going well for you. We also welcome comments if you use the information provided in the messages and/webinars that we can share with others!

Writer: Tammy Jones, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences,
Ohio State University Extension, Pike County jones.5640@osu.edu

 

Reviewer: Holly Bandy, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences,
Ohio State University Extension, Stark County, bandy.52@osu.edu