A 9-month nutrition curriculum was presented to 438 low-income pregnant teens. Pre/posttest data showed that nutrition knowledge increased, but improvements in diet behavior were not apparent. (SK)

A survey of 108 extension administrators (85% response) showed only a small number thought diversity was being acknowledged and discussed. Critical needs were how to communicate with and serve diverse populations, use different strengths, develop clear vision, and recruit. Focus groups confirmed the need to recognize the value of multicultural…

To ensure inclusion of all parties in issues of urbanization, focus groups, consisting of farmers, environmentalists, policymakers, and the nonfarm public were held, issues were refined, and consensus was achieved. A majority thought the process worthwhile in broadening understanding of agriculture. (SK)

Concern with the high cancer rate in a Colorado town led to a nutrition education program for grades K-6, emphasizing five servings of fruit/vegetables per day. Workshops for parents on nutrition and cancer were also held. Of 193 children, 158 in the treatment group increased consumption by one-half serving per day; there was no change for 35…

A survey of 1,720 Texas extension faculty and staff received 1,139 responses indicating dissatisfaction with family-work balance (80%), lack of vision or strategic plan (75-80%), professional development opportunities (70%), and employee involvement opportunities (75%). (SK)

A framework for community action leadership development has four components: (1) holistic philosophy of community, vision, learning, and action; (2) action-based values (visioning, leading, learning, building community, developing energy, acting, communicating); (3) the role of leaders in promoting community action; and (4) method and content. (SK)

A telephone survey of Louisiana residents received usable responses from 343 rural and 384 urban dwellers. The general public was somewhat aware of extension services; most users were satisfied. The rural audience was more favorable. Image-boosting recommendations for mass media and grassroots strategies were made. (SK)

The Caring for Planet Earth program addresses concerns and misconceptions of Oklahoma youth about the environment. A school enrichment curriculum reinforces the environmental content of the exhibit at the state fair. Pre-/posttest results verify it is an effective method of educating culturally diverse audiences about environmental issues. (SK)

Through Project EXCEL (Excellence in Community Elected and Appointed Leadership), 63 participants (Ohio county commissioners) completed simulation exercises in 7 assessment centers. Participants received personalized feedback on 15 behavioral dimensions. (SK)

According to focus groups with 4-H adult and teen volunteers in Ohio, teens felt the most effective adults had a sense of humor, flexibility, and open minds; adults felt effective teens were self-confident, motivated, respectful, and mature. Teens thought adults did not listen to or understand them. Adults seemed to expect adult-like behavior from…