Don’t Get Fooled: Spot Scams Before They Cost You

Scams are more common than ever. Scammers use emails, text messages, social media, phone calls, and fake websites to trick people into giving away money or personal information. Many pretend to be someone you trust, such as a bank, business, government agency, or even a family member.

There are several warning signs that a message may be a scam. Be cautious if you receive an unexpected email, text, or phone call asking for personal information or money. Scammers often create a sense of urgency, claiming you must act immediately to avoid a problem. Requests for payment through gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or payment apps are also major red flags.

One of the most common scams is phishing. In a phishing scam, criminals send emails or text messages that appear to be from a trusted company. The message may ask you to click a link, update account information, or verify a password. These links often lead to fake websites designed to steal personal information. Misspelled words, generic greetings, outdated logos, and unexpected requests for sensitive information can all be signs of phishing.

To protect yourself, never click on links or download attachments from unexpected emails or text messages. Instead, visit the company’s official website or call the organization directly using a verified phone number. Use strong passwords that are different for each account, and turn on two-factor authentication whenever possible. Regularly checking bank statements, credit reports, and online accounts can also help you spot problems early.

If you think you have been targeted by a scam, contact your bank or financial institution right away. You should also report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov. Acting quickly may help reduce financial losses and prevent others from becoming victims.

Information for this article came from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (occ.gov). For more information, contact Tara Solomon-Smith, Family & Community Wellness Agent, at 620-244-3826 or [email protected].

Preparing for Preserving: Check Your Equipment and Use Safe Recipes

As gardens begin producing and farmers markets fill with fresh produce, many southeast Kansans are preparing for another food preservation season. Before canning begins, it’s important to take a few steps to make sure equipment is safe and working properly.

One of the most important checks involves pressure canners. The Southwind Extension District offices in Erie, Yates Center, Iola, and Fort Scott offer free pressure canner gauge testing. The process can help ensure home-canned foods are processed safely. Contact your local office to arrange to leave your pressure canner lid or make an appointment for it to be checked while you wait.

Pressure canning is required for low-acid foods such as vegetables, meats, and soups. An accurate gauge is critical because improper processing can allow the growth of harmful bacteria, including Clostridium botulinum, which causes botulism—a serious and potentially deadly foodborne illness.

Pressure canners use either a dial gauge or a weighted gauge. Weighted-gauge canners do not require testing. However, dial gauges should be tested annually for accuracy. Southwind Extension offices use the Presto Testing Unit from National Presto Industries and can test gauges from National, Presto, Maid of Honor, and Magic Seal pressure canners.

According to the USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning, consumer gauges that test two or more pounds above or below the master gauge should be replaced. A gauge that reads incorrectly can result in food being under-processed and unsafe to eat. Until a replacement gauge is obtained, adjustments can be made to reach the correct pressure. For example, if a recipe calls for 11 pounds of pressure and the gauge reads one pound high, the canner should be operated at 12 pounds of pressure.

In addition to accurate gauges, those who use canners should carefully evaluate the condition of any pressure canner they plan to use. While older canners are often available at garage sales and auctions, replacement parts for some discontinued models may be difficult—or impossible—to find.

When purchasing or inspecting a used pressure canner, consider the following:

• Is the gauge attached and in good condition?
• Is the petcock safety valve complete and functioning?
• Are the threads on the opening undamaged?
• Does the canner require a gasket, and is it in good shape?
• Is the canner perfectly round, with no bulges or distortion?
• Is the bottom flat and level? Canners with recessed or rounded bottoms should not be used.
• On wing-screw models, are all screws and matching lid slots in good condition?

Many replacement parts, such as gaskets, handles, and knobs, can still be purchased through manufacturers and hardware stores. Although replacement parts may not look exactly like the originals, they often serve the same purpose and can safely extend the life of the canner.

Safe equipment is only one part of successful home food preservation. Using a current, research-tested recipe is equally important. While many families treasure canning recipes passed down through generations, some older recipes may not meet today’s food safety recommendations. Changes in research have led to updated guidelines for acidity levels, processing methods, and processing times.

For the safest results, always use research-based recipes from trusted sources, including:

• USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning
• So Easy to Preserve from the University of Georgia Extension
• Kansas State University Food Preservation resources
• Other university Extension publications and research-based sources

By using a well-maintained pressure canner, having an accurate gauge, and following up-to-date, tested recipes, home canners can confidently preserve food that is safe, nutritious, and enjoyable for their families throughout the year.

For more information about food safety and nutrition programs, contact Sandy Haggard, Nutrition, Food Safety, and Health Agent, Southwind District, at [email protected] or 620-365-2242.

From the County Fair to the Classroom: Wrapping Up Summer and Looking Ahead

As the last ribbons are handed out, the livestock trailers head home, and the fairgrounds grow quiet once again, another memorable county fair season has come to an end. Across the Southwind Extension District, our county fairs brought together youth, families, volunteers, sponsors, and community members to celebrate the hard work and accomplishments of our 4-H members. While the excitement of fair week may only last a few days, the skills and experiences gained throughout the year leave a lasting impact.

County fair is often viewed as the highlight of the 4-H year, but it represents much more than a week of exhibits and competitions. Behind every project displayed in the exhibit hall and every animal shown in the ring are months of planning, learning, practicing, and dedication. Members spend countless hours caring for livestock, perfecting recipes, creating woodworking projects, taking photographs, sewing garments, growing gardens, and exploring STEM, arts, and countless other project areas. Along the way, they develop responsibility, confidence, problem-solving skills, time management, and perseverance.

The fair also provides opportunities that extend beyond project work. Members practice public speaking while visiting with judges, learn how to accept constructive feedback, and experience both the excitement of success and the lessons that come with disappointment. Whether a project earns a purple ribbon or simply represents a personal accomplishment, every participant has something to be proud of. Success isn’t measured only by awards—it’s measured by the knowledge gained, friendships formed, and personal growth achieved throughout the journey.

None of this would be possible without the incredible support of our communities. We extend our sincere appreciation to the volunteers who dedicate countless hours, the judges who provide thoughtful evaluations, the superintendents who organize exhibits, the parents and families who encourage their youth every step of the way, and the local businesses and sponsors whose generosity helps make our fairs possible. County fairs truly are community events, and they continue to thrive because so many people are willing to invest their time and talents in the next generation.

As summer draws to a close, another season begins. Soon school hallways will once again be filled with students carrying backpacks instead of fair supplies, and calendars will quickly fill with classes, sports, music programs, and other activities. While summer may be ending, the opportunities to learn certainly are not.

One of the greatest strengths of 4-H is that it encourages youth to learn by doing. Members are challenged to set goals, try new things, work through setbacks, and celebrate accomplishments. These experiences build confidence and prepare young people to become leaders in their schools, communities, and future careers. The friendships formed through club meetings, camps, and community service projects often become some of the most meaningful memories youth carry with them.

As families settle into new routines this fall, we encourage you to consider becoming involved in your local 4-H program. New members are always welcome, and volunteers are an important part of making these opportunities possible. Whether you have a few hours to help with a project meeting or would like to become more involved with your local club, there are many ways to make a difference. If you are interested in joining 4-H, go to the Southwind Extension District website under the 4-H Youth Development tab, Jennifer Terrel and Kendal Henson will answer any questions you may have.

As we reflect on another successful fair season, we celebrate not only the accomplishments displayed during fair week but also the dedication, hard work, and growth that took place throughout the entire year. Congratulations to every 4-H member for your achievements, and thank you to everyone who played a role in making this year’s county fairs a success.

We wish all students, teachers, school staff, and families a safe, successful, and rewarding school year. We look forward to another exciting year of learning, leadership, service, and fun through 4-H, and we can’t wait to see what our youth accomplish in the months ahead.

Kendal Henson is a Kansas State University Extension 4-H & Youth Development agent assigned to the Southwind District. He may be reached at [email protected] or 620-625-8620. Kansas State Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.