By Toi Degree

Rowan Cooperative Extension

I was asked a lot of questions in January, so I’m taking time to address those.

It has been standard for many years to begin the year with a weight loss class. Many of you have asked if I am planning to do another one anytime soon. Continue to read to find out more about the things that many have inquired about.

Q:  Do you have an “Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less” class planned for the near future?

A: No, agents are no longer offering that program at the county level. The program is still around — it is now a web-based program that is delivered in an interactive, real-time format with a live instructor. The program is offered to employers and through health plans interested in eating smart, moving more and achieving a healthy weight. For more information on ESMMWL, visit the website at: https://esmmweighless.com/

Q:  Can I still pick up Radon test kits? When and where?

A:  Yes, you still can come by and pick up radon kits. January may have been National Radon Month, but I still have kits and will continue to have them available for pick up until they are gone. You are welcome to come by Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. to pick up your kit at 2727 Old Concord Road.

For more information, visit: www.ncradon.org or https://www.epa.gov/radon

Q:  Will you have a “Lunch and Learn” series this year?

A:  Yes, I will once again have a six-part Lunch and Learn series; it will begin in March and run through August. Sessions will be the fourth Tuesday of each month, from noon to 1 p.m., at the Rowan County Cooperative Extension Auditorium. Registration is required, and a fee will be charged for each session. Sessions will be advertised in the Salisbury Post, so keep an eye out.

Q: Will you test pressure canners this year? When will you begin?

A: Yes, I will again test pressure canners to get everyone ready for canning season. As a matter of fact, I need to send my gauge to Presto so that they can recalibrate it and get it back in time to check your canners. Each year, Presto allows agents to send their gauges in for recalibration as a courtesy to us for buying their testing unit so that we can ensure our gauge is accurate when testing your gauge.

Testing will begin at the beginning of June and run through the end of July. I will be sure to put an announcement in the paper to let you all know the dates and times.

Q:  Will you have any ServSafe class this year?

A: Yes, I know that there is always a need for ServSafe training.  I don’t have any classes planned yet but will likely start planning those soon. If you are in need of a class, I encourage you to contact your health inspector so that we will know who and how many are in need of training.

I think I have answered all of the questions I have been asked during the first month of the year.  I am always happy to assist you in all of your food and nutrition needs.  Just give me a call, and I’ll gladly answer your questions. I will even come to speak to your group and/or provide you with educational materials.

Toi N. Degree, family & consumer education agent at the Rowan County Cooperative Extension, 704-216-8970 or toi_degree@ncsu.edu