The MSU Extension “I Know MI Numbers” (pronounced: “I know my numbers”) initiative is intended to inspire Michigan residents to actively engage in understanding what “numbers” translate into healthier living, a cleaner environment, educational achievement, good local government, and ultimately, a prosperous Michigan. The final goal is a state that is thriving and successful.
Good health comes from an accumulation of good decisions and actions over time. Now that you are starting a new year, resolve to make good decisions all year. Here is a calendar of good ideas for each month.
January - KICKOFF - Think SUPERBOWL - and start incorporating more bowls of soups and salads in your diet. Make them chock full of vegetables and low in fat and sodium. Visit www.foodandhealth.com for delicious recipes
February - HEART MONTH - Focus on limiting or omitting foods that are high in saturated fats, trans fatty acids and cholesterol. This means fatty meats, fried foods and many animal-based foods. Increase your consumption of seafood. Visit www.americanheart.org
March - NUTRITION MONTH - This month focus on the good news about food. Increase what is good for you - that means fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nonfat or low-fat milk and milk products. Visit www.eatright.org.
April - SPRING - Add variety to your diet. Instead of eating the same things over and over, consume a variety of foods within and among the basic food groups while staying within energy needs.
May - BLOOD PRESSURE MONTH - Choose and prepare foods with little salt. Experiment with new seasonings, such as herbs (fresh or dried), citrus fruits and vinegars to add flavor to foods. Be aware of canned, frozen, packaged and bottled foods and their sodium content.
June - VACATION MONTH - Be physically active every day. Now that the weather is nicer, it is time to make time for that fitness program you are always putting off.
July - FRUIT AND VEGETABLES IN SEASON - Choose carbohydrates wisely for good health. Increase your consumption of whole grains, fruits and vegetables instead of items devoid of fiber.
August - SUMMER'S END - Take notice of all the foods that are high in calories that you eat on a regular basis. Read package labels. Fruits, vegetables, cooked whole grains, fat-free dairy products and very lean poultry and fish are low in calorie density. Breads, desserts, cookies, chips, packaged cereals and high-fat foods are high in calorie density.
September - BACK TO SCHOOL - Think safety as you pack school and work lunches. Remember to include a cold source if you pack perishable foods such as meat sandwiches, eggs, milk and other dairy products.
October - SPOOKY TIME - Take time to learn about food safety. Wash your hands; keep all food surfaces clean; do not cross contaminate ready-to-serve foods with juices of raw meats, seafood and poultry; keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot.
November - HOLIDAYS - If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so in moderation. Enjoy the holiday season with less stress this year.
December - YEAR END - It is time to review this list and decide what you need to be fit and a lower weight. What worked well? What do you need to do more of?
For the best local information check with your local MSU Extension office, listed by county in the directory
Water Quality Area of Expertise Team - includes information on program, project, bulletins, links to databases on information on water quality work in Michigan.
Since the early nineties, when MSUE launched a Heritage Preservation Education Initiative, two wonderful organizations were developed to implement a broad range of cultural and heritage projects ained at improving local pride and building a thematic tourism environment resulting in a new appreciation for our local heritage as a means to building a stronger economy and community feeling.
Friends of the Heritage Trail
Friends of the Heritage Trail is a local organization active in promotion of tourism There are currently fourteen historical sites on the "Trail" in Iron County. The Association's goal is to promote tourism, endorse/sponsor related events and to get the message out to "Visit Iron County." The sites are marked with interpretive signs. Throughout the seasons, individuals sites sponsor special events. For more information visit its website at www.ironheritage.org.
Western Upper Peninsula Heritage Trail Network
The Western Upper Peninsula Heritage Trail Network promotes tourism through its message that the Western Upper Peninsula is a culturally rich, scenic and historical part of Michigan. The Trail Network features Iron, Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw, Ontonagon and Gogebic Counties. WUPHTN is an organization with members working together to draw tourists and features over seventy (70) sites. Sites include museums, state and federal park systems, cultural arts, waterways and mining/mineral museums. Iron County's MSUE has worked closely with the "Network" providing support in organization and implementation of the Network's progress. For more information visit www.upheritage.org.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.
