Linda Beech, Ellis County Extension Family and Consumer Sciences Agent, was honored recently by the National Extension Association for Family and Consumer Sciences with two communication awards.

She received the second-place national award in Written News for a news column which appeared in the Hays Daily News and Hays Post last summer entitled “Canning Mistakes Can Be Deadly.” In the article, Beech reminded readers to avoid deadly canning mistakes in home food preservation with the slogan “just because it seals doesn’t mean it’s safe.”

She also received a third-place Television/Video Communications Award in the 12-state Central Region for a TV spot aired on “Extras From Extension” by Eagle Community TV of Hays. Jeff Durall of Eagle Communications was the video producer. The 10-minute TV broadcast reviewed food safety recommendations for thawing large pieces of meat or poultry and showed the four safe methods for thawing food at holiday time.

This national award competition encourages excellence in nine communication categories for Extension Family and Consumer Sciences agents across the nation. The awards are sponsored by the NEAFCS membership and awards fund.