Strong Couples Program

Having a strong relationship with your romantic partner can be hard. And when you need help, finding trustworthy support can be difficult. The Strong Couples Program can help.

The Strong Couples Program is:

• Six self-paced online modules. Topics include communication, commitment, problem-solving, and fun and friendship.
• Five brief video calls with a trained coach from Extension.
• The Strong Couples Program is FREE! You can start any time.

Why should you and your partner consider the Strong Couples Program?

• The Strong Couples Program is one of the most scientifically-supported online programs for couple relationships.
• It is supported by multiple research studies that show that couples who participate demonstrate improved relationship and individual well-being compared to couples who do not participate in the program.
• The program has helped thousands of couples to date.

This program is for couples together six months or longer in all life stages. This educational program is NOT counseling. The program teaches couples to use tools that can improve their relationship.

https://parenting.extension.wisc.edu/strong-couples/

Find Answers with AnswerLine

Whether you’re new to food preservation or have years of experience, questions can come up when you least expect them. Wisconsin residents now have access to AnswerLine, a trusted resource that provides research-based guidance on safe food preservation practices.

AnswerLine is offered through a collaboration between UW–Madison Extension and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. The service is staffed by trained Extension professionals who can help answer questions about canning, freezing, drying, and other food preservation methods. Their guidance is based on the latest safety recommendations, helping you protect both your food and your health.

Reaching AnswerLine is simple. You can call to speak directly with a specialist or send your question by email. This flexibility allows you to get reliable information in a way that works best for you.

Whether you’re preserving garden produce, preparing meals ahead of time, or trying something new, AnswerLine is a dependable resource you can trust.

Call: 866-540-4636
Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Email: answer@iastate.edu

Learn more by visiting our website!

OFC Summer Twilight Meeting

Farmers and agricultural professionals are invited to attend the 2026 Midwest Forage Association and Outagamie Forage Council Regional Summer Twilight Meeting on Wednesday, August 12, hosted at J-Springs Dairy in Appleton. The evening begins with a complimentary meal at 6:30 p.m., followed by expert-led presentations starting at 7:00 p.m. Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) Continuing Education Units (CEUs) will be available.

The program will focus on real-world challenges facing agriculture today. Dan Smith, UW–Madison Division of Extension Weed Science Outreach Specialist, will discuss practical weed management strategies, including considerations for one-pass versus two-pass systems in corn and approaches for difficult species like waterhemp. Chris Clark, Northeast Regional Outreach Specialist, will present updated guidance on potassium management and share insights from current alfalfa research.

The evening will conclude with a panel discussion addressing the financial pressures of low commodity prices and rising input costs. Panelists from dairy, lending, and crop consulting will share strategies and experiences to help producers make informed decisions in uncertain times. Audience participation is encouraged.

This event is free and open to all. RSVP by August 10 to ensure a meal.

Email ina.montgomery@wisc.edu

Call Extension Outagamie at 920-832-4763

Click https://bit.ly/2026TwilightMeeting

Mail to: Extension Outagamie – OFC Twilight Meeting
3365 W. Brewster St. | Appleton, WI 54914

Fathers in Focus Conference

Fathers, mentors, coaches, and allies are invited to attend the 2026 Fathers in Focus conference on Saturday, October 10, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Madison College Truax Campus. This free, day-long event brings together individuals from across Wisconsin to learn, connect, and strengthen their roles within families and communities. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) will be available for a fee.

The conference includes a keynote address by Mike de la Rocha, author of Sacred Lessons: Teaching My Father How to Love. His message encourages open conversation, personal growth, and the importance of connection and support. The event will also feature a wide range of breakout sessions designed to meet participants where they are.

Attendees can choose from several topic tracks, including co-parenting, communication, relationship and parenting skills, child support and finances, custody considerations, mental health, and support for justice-involved families. These sessions offer practical strategies, helpful resources, and opportunities to learn from experienced speakers and peers.

Developed through listening to fathers in community-based education programs, Fathers in Focus creates space for meaningful conversations and shared experiences. The event continues to grow each year, offering a place where participants can build skills, expand their support networks, and gain tools to guide and support their families.

Registration is open through September 14.

Learn more and register here!

Soybean Field Day Schedule

Producers and agricultural professionals are invited to a High-Oleic Soybean Field Day on August 25, focused on practical applications for dairy farming. This program is designed for those interested in learning how high-oleic soybeans can fit into feeding programs and overall farm management.

The day will begin with educational presentations at the Brillion Nature Center, followed by lunch. Topics will include the background of high-oleic soybeans, agronomic considerations for growing them, and strategies for handling and maintaining identity preservation. Presenters will also discuss the economics of incorporating these soybeans into farm systems, including roasting and processing considerations.

In the afternoon, participants will travel to Woldt Farms for hands-on learning activities. This portion of the program provides an opportunity to see practices in action and ask questions directly in a farm setting. A question-and-answer session with farm and industry representatives will round out the day.

This field day is a great opportunity to explore new ideas, gather practical insights, and connect with others interested in innovative feed strategies. Registration is required to assist with meal planning.

Register here

4-H Summer Camp Success

4-H Summer Camp 2026 brought energy, learning, and connection to its new location at Camp Lakotah, near Wautoma, Wisconsin. With approximately 90 campers, 20 counselors, and a dozen chaperones, the camp was filled to capacity and created an active and welcoming environment for youth.

Camp Lakotah provided a natural setting for a wide variety of activities. Located along Little Hills Lake and surrounded by wooded areas, the site offered opportunities for outdoor experiences such as swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Campers also had access to open space for recreation, as well as areas suited for group activities and quieter moments.

Daily programming included crafts, nature education, and campfire experiences, along with recreation-led activities that encouraged teamwork and creativity. The schedule balanced structured learning with free-choice activity time, giving campers the chance to explore their interests while building independence and confidence. Meals and shared cabin living added to the overall experience, helping campers develop friendships and a sense of community.

The new location supported both large-group programming and small-group connections, contributing to a positive environment for youth development. Participation in summer camp continues to be an opportunity for young people to build skills, stay active, and engage in learning outside of traditional settings.

The strong turnout and positive feedback reflect a successful camp season and an exciting future for 4-H Summer Camp programming.

Neighbor-To-Neighbor Event

Join AgrAbility of Wisconsin on July 23 for a Neighbor-to-Neighbor event at Faust Farms. This informal gathering brings together farmers, community members, and others interested in building connections and sharing experiences related to agriculture and accessibility.

The focus of the morning will be on practical solutions that support farmers in staying active and successful in agriculture. Participants will have the opportunity to see assistive technology in use during a demonstration by Adam Faust of Faust Farms. These tools help address common physical challenges and can improve safety, efficiency, and quality of life on the farm.

In addition to the demonstration, the event offers time for conversation and peer networking. Attendees are encouraged to ask questions, share ideas, and learn from others who may be facing similar challenges. Light refreshments will be provided, creating a relaxed and welcoming environment for all participants.

This program is open to anyone interested in learning more about accessible farming and connecting with others in the agricultural community.

Register here

4-H Fun Days are… FUN!

4-H youth have been making the most of their summer by diving into a wide range of hands-on learning experiences. Programs offered so far have included Magical Gardens, I Love My Cat/Dog, Design a Board Game, Dresser Drawer Planters, Flower Pounding, and two sessions of Chick Quest. Each activity has given youth the chance to learn new skills while exploring their interests in fun and creative ways.

Throughout these projects, participants have developed important life skills such as communication, perseverance, and problem-solving. Youth also gained practical experience, including how to refinish furniture, understand plant care, and explore the life cycle of chicks. These opportunities allow young people to build confidence while learning by doing.

One of the most popular programs has been Flower Pounding, where youth used natural dyes from flowers to create colorful prints on paper, tea towels, and pencil cases. Chick Quest has also been a highlight, with two successful hatches. 11 chicks in the first session and 7 in the second! As part of the program, youth designed and built egg catchers using simple materials, testing their creations to safely land a dropped egg. Many participants rose to the challenge and succeeded.

Looking ahead, there is still more to come. Cloverbud Camp and the county fair are just around the corner, and youth have already signed up for another Chick Quest session and a back-to-school event in August. With strong participation and enthusiasm, 4-H youth are on track to finish the summer with even more learning, growth, and fun.

Regional Nutrient Management Meetings

Agricultural producers and professionals are encouraged to attend the 2026 Regional Nutrient Management Meetings hosted by DATCP, NRCS, UW–Extension, and the SnapPlus team. These sessions will take place across the region in August and September and are designed to provide the latest updates and practical guidance for nutrient management planning.

Each meeting runs from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and covers key topics related to nutrient management strategies, regulations, and planning tools. The sessions are intended to support informed decision-making and help participants stay current with best practices. Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) Continuing Education Units (CEUs) have been requested.

An optional SnapPlus Version 3 training will follow each meeting from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Participants who plan to attend the training are asked to bring a laptop to fully engage in the session.

A local session will be held on September 2 in Appleton at 1825 N Bluemound Drive. Additional dates, locations, and details, including directions and parking instructions, are available during registration.

Registration is free but required to attend.

Learn more and register here!

AnswerLine: Farmers Market Food Safety

Farmers markets offer a wide variety of fresh foods. To reduce spoilage, refrigerate berries and greens right away, store tomatoes at room temperature, and keep cut produce chilled. For questions about storage times or washing produce, visit https://go.wisc.edu/answerline or call 866-540-4636.