COUNTY LIFE
Fresh produce requires some preparation
The summer season is a busy time for outdoor farmers markets, which means plenty of opportunities for consumers to purchase fresh produce.
But it is crucial to follow safe handling tips, Rebecca Dittmar, AgriLife Extension program specialist in Nutrition and Food Science, said.
“Whether produce comes from a grocery store or farmers market, it’s important to be consistent in practicing safe food handling at home,” Dittmar said.
Handling practices can be extremely simple and can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses from fresh produce, she said.
Consumers should always wash their produce before eating, regardless of where it was purchased.
“You should thoroughly rinse fresh produce with fresh water just before you eat or prepare it to be eaten,” she said. “Never use soap or bleach to clean fresh fruits or vegetables, and be sure to refrigerate cut, peeled or cooked fresh fruits and vegetables within two hours of preparing them.”
Produce should always be checked for bruising and other damages when purchasing. Pre-cut fruits and vegetables should be refrigerated or on ice. Produce should also be kept separate from raw meat, seafood, poultry, eggs and dairy while shopping and in the refrigerator, Dittmar noted.
Hands and surface areas should be cleaned and disinfected before and after preparing produce, as well.
“Before and after you handle your produce, wash your hands with hot, soapy water for at least 20 seconds,” she said. “Make sure all surfaces and utensils, such as cutting boards and knives, are washed with hot soapy water and sanitized before and after preparing your produce.”
Running water can be used to rinse off produce. Pre-packaged ready-to-eat or triple-washed fruits and vegetables should be good to go
Montague County Commissioner’s Court will meet at 9 a.m. on Nov. 25.
Members will consider an anti-fraud policy and adding it to the personnel policy. The annual liability renewal with the Texas Association of Counties Risk Pool will be reviewed.
Montague County officials will be enrolling in the TAC 2025 certified cybersecurity course required by the state for all employees who use county computers.
Other topics for Monday will include the bond for the county treasurer, review an account application with Schad & Pulte Welding Supply, Inc and consider raising the road hand clothing allowance from $500 to $1,000.
By BARBARA GREEN
[email protected]
It was family night for the City of Bowie Fire Department as members gathered for the annual pre-Thanksgiving awards dinner this week.
Firefighter of the Year awards, service awards and officers and firefighters were pinned with their new badges.
Fire Chief Doug Page opened the evening with a remembrance of a fallen firefighter, James Dunham who died 25 years ago on Nov. 18. This Saint Jo firefighter was responding to a car accident at Forestburg and after he arrived suffered a heart attack. Page noted his daughter is auxiliary member Renee Hart.
Chad Long, member of the department for one year and one month received the Firefighter of the Year Award. Kelly Tomlin, nine-year member, was selected by the volunteers to receive the Roy Gene Williams Award.
Read the full story in the weekend Bowie News.
Top photo- New lieutenants Michael Burrows and Chad Gerlach received the oath from Mayor Gaylynn Burris. (Photo by Barbara Green)
The new Montague County Animal Rescue, which will be helping with operation of the new county animal shelter, invite you to “Wine Like A Dog” on Dec. 3 at Kimber Creek Wine Bar and Gift Shop in downtown Bowie.
The evening will include wine and charcuterie from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., while raising funds for the rescue organization. Tickets are $50.
Melanie Gillespie of Montague County Animal Rescue said the new 501c3 has completed its agreement to work with Montague County operating the animal shelter.
“Your support enables us to launch the opening of the first county-run animal shelter. We invite you to join our mission of rescuing, rehabilitating and finding loving homes for animals in need,” said Gillespie.
Limited tickets will be offered at the door based on availability. Those with questions may call Gillespie at 469-951-0215 or email [email protected].
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