Franklin Youth Ag Leadership Program
FCS agent Dominque Simon presented "Just Peachy'" Nutrition education on Aug. 29, at the Louisburg Senior Center. The Seniors later enjoyed a trivia game and ice cream social.
This summer we will be sharing articles about things you can grow in Franklin County. We also will share articles about how to prepare some of the vegetables and fruits that we write about.
Growing in Franklin
Okra
In this month’s article we are going to share information about a warm season vegetable crop that is currently in season. Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is a warm season crop that is a tall upright plant with a hibiscus type flower that originated in Africa. The immature seed pods are the edible part of this plant.
Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits
Okra is the edible pod of the okra plant. You probably know it best for its soluble fiber content, which creates what is sometimes described as a slimy goo. The gooeyness can be minimized by stir-frying at high heat or cooking in a soup or stew such as gumbo, where the fiber disperses and provides a thickening agent. If you cook okra with an acidic food, such as lemon juice, vinegar, or even tomatoes, it helps to cut down on the slime factor. Learn more
Franklin County Horse Farm Tour participants toured three local horse farms Aug 4th and then headed to the county conference room for a BBQ luncheon.
Franklin County Women in Ag participated in the 2023 NC-ANA Summer Farm Tour Aug. 14th. They visited five farms in the Goldsboro area, one was a dairy operation that produces goat cheese, and ended the day with a farm to table dinner. For additional Women in Ag, Equine or Livestock information, contact Agent Martha Mobley.
During the 4-H Summer Fun Livestock Showmanship session Aug. 8th, youth learned about daily care, grooming, nutrition, and showmanship for various types of animals.
4-H Youth competed for prizes in the 2023 4-H FUN Livestock Show on Aug. 18th. It was also a learning opportunity and good practice for the fair.
Franklin County 4-H Youth Attends NCACC Youth Voice
Meredith Potter attended the annual North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) Youth Voice, which was held in Raleigh, North Carolina August 25-26, 2023. North Carolina 4-H and the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service partnered with the NCACC on a multi-year initiative to increase youth involvement in county government. This initiative helps youth learn more about county government as well as how to become more involved in local decision making. 72 youth and adults from 57 counties were represented during this event. The event is sponsored and supported by the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners.
Franklin County 4-H'ers attend Eastern Regional 4-H Shooting Sports Competition
Seven Franklin County 4-H youth competed in air pistol (junior), air rifle (junior and senior), rifle (junior and senior), shotgun (junior and senior) at the Eastern 4-H Center on August 25-26, 2023. It was their first time competing professionally, some started with the team in April and they scored very high. Franklin County 4-H has not been to a Regional competition in over eight years! The club gave thanks for the support of their Extension office and their 4-H Agent, parents and Harry Foy who sponsors the team as well. Way to go Franklin County 4-H Sharp Shooters Sports Club!
Franklin County Farmers Market
The Franklin County Farmers Market, located at 137 Shannon Village, Louisburg is open Friday, 9am-1pm. For Farmers Market information, visit our website, or contact Market Manager Pat Ayscue, 919-496-3344.
Visit NC Farms
Connect with farms, farmers markets, and restaurants with foods and activities that interest you. Download the Visit NC Farms App today! Available for Apple and Android. Visitncfarmstoday.com.
Upcoming
N.C. State Fair Home Chef Challenge
The N.C. State Fair loves a deep-fried treat, but there is something about homemade food that warms the soul. North Carolinians are truly talented, and the Home Chef Challenge allows chefs to show off their cooking abilities with 11 days of competitions. This year’s competitions include Slam-Dunk Sliders, Bella’s Birthday Bash, Appetizers with Spirit, Banana Pudding, Layer Cakes, Cast iron Chicken Pot Pie, Make-ahead Lunches, Carnitas Street Tacos, Kickin’ Chicken Salad, Mac-n-Cheese and Sausage Balls. Entry deadline is Oct. 2. Learn more at 2023 Home Chef Challenge.