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As part of the Full Plates, Bright Futures initiative, funded by the 2025 Hunger Free Kansas grant program, more than 30 students from White City and Council Grove High Schools rolled up their sleeves to fight food insecurity in the Flint Hills. Together, these students prepared and packaged 287 freezable, microwave-ready meals, which were distributed to local organizations serving families in need. This effort was guided by lessons developed by Diane Mora, creator of the Ki

Here is a list of the advertised Christmas Eve services in the Morris County area. We apologize if any have been missed. Alta Vista Area: AV High View Church Simpson United Methodist Church: December 24, 2025 at 5:30 pm Council Grove Area: Community Christian Church of CG: December 24, 2025 at 6:30 pm CG-Dunlap United Methodist Church: December 24, 2025 at 7:30 pm First Baptist Church: December 24, 2025 at 6:30 pm First Congregational United Church of Christ: December 24, 202

As the holiday season wraps Morris County in its festive spirit, it’s the perfect moment to extend warm Christmas wishes to every resident. This time of year brings a special kind of joy and togetherness that lights up our communities, homes, and hearts. Whether you’re enjoying the twinkling lights or the strangely warm weather this year, Christmas offers a chance to celebrate with family, friends, and neighbors. The Christmas season is a time to express gratitude and hope. T

Released: Dec. 22, 2025   K-State community health expert highlights extension’s work to reduce chronic illness in Kansas   Hypertension, diabetes, cancer are among leading causes of illness and death   By Pat Melgares , K-State Extension news service MANHATTAN, Kan. — Chronic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes and cancer are placing increasing demands on Kansans, and Kansas State University Extension professionals are stepping in to help residents manage those conditio

Cherishing Holiday Moments with Family at Home Released: Dec. 8, 2025   Holiday game nights help families build skills that AI can’t match   Board games build character and relationships, says extension agent     By Pat Melgares , K-State Extension news service   MANHATTAN, Kan. -- As the holiday season brings families together, educators say a simple tradition — gathering around a board game — may offer benefits that outlast festive meals and wrapped gifts.   Liz Brunscheen-

CrossWinds Counseling and Wellness has entered into a formal agreement with Together with Veterans AND Morris County to increase access to essential behavioral health services to residents who lack the financial means to pay for care. Together with Veterans AND Morris County enlists rural veterans and their local partners to undertake the important mission of reducing veteran and civilian suicide. Their work strengthens the county's behavioral health safety net by helping ind

Every day, many families in our community face challenges putting food on the table and finding suitable clothing. These basic needs are essential for health, dignity, and well-being, yet not everyone has easy access to them. Crosswinds (Morris County) is stepping up to help by organizing a food and clothing drive that invites everyone to contribute and make a real difference. This initiative focuses on collecting meal kits and everyday items to support those who need it most

Every year, thousands of young people across the country take part in 4-H, a youth development program that helps them build skills in health, science, agriculture, and civic engagement. 4-H believes in the power of young people to make a positive difference in their communities. To keep this program thriving, dedicated adults are needed to guide and support these youth. Becoming a 4-H Project Leader is one of the most rewarding ways to contribute. What is 4-H? 4-H is a natio

Beat the Chill: Essential Layering Tips      K-State fashion studies experts give their tips for staying warm this season    By Madeline Drake , K-State Extension news service     MANHATTAN, Kan. – No one wants to be stuck outside in cold temperatures without the proper attire. Kelsie Doty, an assistant professor of fashion studies in Kansas State University’s College of Health and Human Sciences, says there are some important factors that go into staying warm when working or

K-State entomologist shares tips for keeping winter pests out of homes, yards   Cloyd says most insects are more of a nuisance, rather than danger  By Madeline Drake , K-State Extension news service MANHATTAN, Kan. – With cooler temperatures pushing fall pests toward homes, K-State horticultural entomologist Raymond Cloyd says a few simple sanitation steps can stop nuisance insects before they settle in. “As the temperature gets cooler, we have a series of insects and mite pe

K-State food scientist shares tips for safe leftovers   Whether refrigerating or freezing leftovers, follow these steps to keep your family safe  K-State Extension news service   MANHATTAN, Kan. – In the movies, many sequels just don’t live up to the originals.  But where holiday foods are concerned, many people actually look forward to follow-up meals, says Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee.  “Leftovers are a great option for a quick lunch or dinner,” sa

K-State food safety expert shares holiday meal reminders

Donating blood is a simple act that can have a life-changing impact on others. By giving just a little of your time, you help ensure that hospitals have the blood they need for emergencies, surgeries, and patients battling illness. Your donation can be the reason someone gets a second chance—so take this opportunity to make a real difference and become a hero in your community.

All in the Morris County and USD 417 area are invited to consider helping with the county-wide Christmas Project sponsored by Care & Share. This annual Christmas Project is a joint effort of Care and Share, the Child Healthcare Organization, and various other civic organizations, church groups, schools, and individuals. Angel Tree Gift Tags will be available in 7 different area locations beginning November 17th: Bank of the Flint Hills, White City Farmers and Drovers Bank, Al

K-State horticulture expert suggests season extenders to keep plants growing

Foul odor in refrigerator, freezer could be a food safety issue

Older farmers are more likely to develop dementia, which can increase their risk of injuries - especially on farms and ranches. Even those with memory problems who just live on a farm, not work on it, can be at risk. While there are general resources for farm and home safety, there aren’t any programs that focus on the specific challenges of dementia in farming communities. Caring for someone with dementia in these areas can also be especially tough on families.  To fill this

In the heart of the Flint Hills, Live Well Morris County stands as a cornerstone of community-driven health and wellness. This coalition brings together local organizations, volunteers, and public health leaders to tackle pressing issues like food insecurity, early childhood development, and access to healthcare. From hosting community baby showers to organizing bike safety days for elementary students to fighting food insecurity, Live Well Morris County is deeply embedded i