Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Photo Credit:  Shalan Kolbasuk

From Pyramid to Plate and Back: What’s Behind the New Dietary Guidelines

The federal nutrition guidance in the United States has come full circle in 2026. After decades of evolution, the pyramid shape has returned, but with a twist. On January 7, 2026, the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Health & Human Services released the 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans along with a new version of the food pyramid that replaces the MyPlate icon used from 2011–2025.

Explaining the shift.

1992–2005: The Original Food Pyramid
The classic triangular pyramid placed grains at the base (largest portion) and fats/oils at the top (smallest). It visually emphasized quantity and moderation. The design of the pyramid changed in 2005 - 2011 as My Pyramid to try to include a representation of the importance of physical activity.

2011–2025: MyPlate
MyPlate simplified the message. The plate icon showed half your plate filled with fruits and vegetables, with the remaining half split between whole grains and protein, plus dairy on the side. It was designed to be simple, intuitive, and relatable to real meals.

2026: The New Pyramid
The updated pyramid flips the visual hierarchy. It highlights protein, fruits, vegetables, dairy, and healthy fats as foundational components, while whole grains appear in a smaller tier. The emphasis reflects current priorities, including protein intake, eating whole foods, and limiting highly processed foods.

What Has Stayed the Same?

Despite the visual redesign, the trajectory shows continuity:

✔ Emphasis on fruits and vegetables

✔ Choosing nutrient dense foods

✔ Inclusion of whole grains

✔ Lean or nutrient-dense protein choices

✔ Limiting added sugars and highly processed foods

The graphics may change, but the underlying goal remains consistent: helping Americans build balanced, nutrient-rich eating patterns that support long-term health.

Resources & Where to Learn More:

📄 The New Food Pyramid, Explained — College of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences, University of Arizona (full article overview).  https://cales.arizona.edu/news/new-food-pyramid-explained 

🍽️ What Is MyPlate? — USDA MyPlate overview and history of the plate model. https://myplate4chatbot.stg.platform.usda.gov/eat-healthy/what-is-myplate

🥗 Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2025–2030 — full guidelines published by USDA/HHS https://cdn.realfood.gov/DGA_508.pdf

Contact Sarah Schindel, Health & Well-Being Educator with UW–Madison Division of Extension, for information about local workshops, presentations, or partnership opportunities focused on whole-person health.

About Health & Well-Being Programming

As part of University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension, Health & Well-Being programming supports communities in building lifelong skills that strengthen physical, mental, and social health.

While nutrition education remains an important component, programming takes a broader approach to wellness, including:

🥗 Nutrition and healthy eating patterns

🧠 Mental health and stress management

💤 Sleep and restorative health

💪 Physical activity 

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Social connection and community resilience

Programs are research-based, adaptable to local needs, and designed for real-life application.

If your organization is looking to strengthen community well-being — whether through nutrition classes, mental health education, or comprehensive wellness programming — reach out to Sarah Schindel to explore collaboration.

Sarah.schindel@wisc.edu

920-834-6898

Together, we can move beyond individual behavior change and toward healthier environments that make the healthy choice the easy choice.

Health and Well-Being Educator Jen Whitty was recently featured on The Larry Meiller Show, where she discussed the impact of the StrongBodies strength training program for middle-aged and older adults.

During the February 16 program, physical therapists Lori Thein Brody and Jill Thein-Nissenbaum shared expertise on musculoskeletal care and ACL recovery. In the second half of the show, Jen joined the conversation to talk about StrongBodies and how evidence-based strength training supports healthy aging, mobility, and independence.

Jen’s interview begins at 1:13:00 or click the button below and scroll down to the "Listen Button" next to the "Statewide strength training program builds muscle, flexibility and confidence" title. 

StrongBodies is a nationally recognized, research-based program designed to help adults build strength, improve balance, and reduce the risk of falls. In the interview, Jen explains how the program works, who it serves, and why strength training is essential for maintaining function and quality of life as we age.

We’re proud to see StrongBodies represented on Wisconsin Public Radio and grateful to Jen for sharing her expertise with a statewide audience.

You can find a StrongBodies program locally in Oconto County today!  Classes currently take place in both Gillett and Morgan (Oconto Falls) on Monday and Wednesday mornings! 

Dates: February 4 – April 18

Time: Mondays & Wednesdays, 9:30–11:00 a.m.

Location: St. John's Lutheran Church in Morgan, WI at 3374 County Highway C, Oconto Falls, WI.

Register by January 29: https://go.wisc.edu/w9bt8w

Questions? Contact Sarah Schindel sarah.schindel@wisc.edu or 920-834-6898

Strong People, Strong Bodies – Morgan

Looking for a safe, effective way to stay active and feel stronger as you age?  It is not too late to join! 

Strong Bodies is a research-based strength training program designed for mid-life and older adults that supports lifelong health, independence, and confidence.

Participants can expect improvements in muscle strength, balance, flexibility, and overall mobility, which can help reduce the risk of falls, make everyday activities easier, and support bone and joint health.

Many participants also report increased energy, better posture, and a greater sense of well-being from staying active in a supportive group setting.

UW-Madison Division of Extension Oconto County in partnership with Healthy Oconto County and Oconto County Health and Human Services, are hosting weekly walking groups located at Oconto Falls School District and Lena School District. 

Because of this amazing partnership you can easily find a place within our county to walk safely, indoors with other community members multiple days of the week. 

Thank you to our partnering schools for working with us to make our communities a healthier place to live!

Fore information and a closer look at the flyers, visit our website!

How are you incorporating physical activity into your days and weeks?  Morning walks, lunch time movement breaks or evening sweat sessions ALL COUNT!

Oconto County was highlighted on a recent WPR radio show focusing on local efforts that promote aging-friendly communities and social connection.

 StrongBodies is coming to Suring!

If you’re a mid-life or older adult looking to build strength, improve balance, and increase flexibility — this class is for YOU. And yes… all are welcome!

🗓 March 30 – June 5, 2026
📅 Mondays & Fridays
⏰ 9:00 – 10:15 a.m.
📍 Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church
11005 County Rd M, Suring

This 10-week program includes progressive resistance training, balance work, and flexibility exercises — all led by trained community volunteers, Renee and Jill. It’s supportive, welcoming, and designed to help you feel stronger in everyday life.

🔗 Sign up here: https://go.wisc.edu/8j2oc5
📝 Register by March 23!  Don't wait, spots are filling fast! 

Questions? Contact Katie Daul at katie.daul@wisc.edu or call 920-834-6845.

Come move your body, build strength, and connect with others in the community. Let’s get stronger together 💚

Register online or by phone:

Online: https://go.wisc.edu/s10v15

By Calling:

Katie Daul, UW-Madison Division of Extension, Oconto County: 920-834-6848

or

Lisa Spencer, Marinette County ADRC: 715-732-3850

We're excited to share that Oconto County UW Extension Lifespan Educator Katie Daul, is partnering with the Marinette County Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) to bring you Powerful Tools for Caregivers, a supportive and skill‑building class series just for you!

Powerful Tools for Caregivers is a six‑week, evidence‑based education program designed to help family and friend caregivers take better care of themselves while caring for others. The class helps you build confidence, reduce stress, improve communication, solve problems, and locate helpful community resources — all while connecting with others who understand what you’re going through.

This class is perfect for caregivers of adults with chronic conditions or caregivers of children with special health or behavioral needs.

Sessions are held once a week for six weeks and are led by experienced class leaders. Participants also receive a Powerful Tools for Caregivers workbook full of additional tips and resources.

Looking to feel more confident using your smartphone, tablet, or other devices? Join UW–Madison Division of Extension and the Gillett Public Library for Using Technology to Thrive, a three-part, hands-on series designed to help adults build practical technology skills. Participants are encouraged to bring their own devices and learn in a supportive, small-group setting with Extension Educator Katie Daul.

Sessions cover Smart Phone Basics (January 26), Tools and Tips (February 23), and Frauds and Scams (March 23). Classes meet Mondays at 11:00 a.m. at the Gillett Community Center.

For more information, contact Oconto County Extension at 920-834-6848 or email Katie.Daul@wisc.edu

Thinking ahead can bring peace of mind—for you and for those you love.

Join UW–Madison Extension Educator, Katie Daul, for Planning AHEAD, a free 7-session virtual program designed to help individuals and families prepare for end-of-life decisions with confidence and clarity.

Tuesdays | March 17 – April 28, 2026

5:00–6:00 p.m.

Virtual via Zoom

Participants will explore topics such as advance directives, estate planning, financial changes, final wishes, and understanding grief. Each participant receives a free workbook to support planning and reflection.

This program is ideal for anyone interested in planning ahead, those who have lost a loved one, or those navigating caregiving and transitions.

Register here: https://go.wisc.edu/n7y852

According to the National Association of Realtors latest Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, 17% of home purchases were for a multigenerational household. 21% of Gen X buyers (ages 45-59),15% of younger boomers (ages 60-69), and 12% of older millennials (ages 35-44) purchased multigenerational homes.

36% of multigenerational homebuyers cited “cost savings” as the primary reason for purchasing a multigenerational home—a significant increase from just 15% in 2015. Also, 27% of all multigenerational home buyers have children under 18 living with them.

21% stated children over the age of 18 moving back into the house as a reason for their multigenerational home purchase. 20% reported that their adult children or relatives had never left home, compared to 7% in 2015.

What is Money Matters?

FREE virtual financial education workshops from UW–Madison Division of Extension are back!

Join us monthly for practical, easy-to-understand money topics that can help you feel more confident about your finances—no matter where you’re starting from.

Register here: go.wisc.edu/mmlive

What to expect:

• Online through Zoom

• Held monthly on the 1st Tuesday

• Up to 1 hour, with time for questions

• Same topic offered twice: 10–11 AM or 6:30–7:30 PM

These sessions are free and open to the public—perfect for adults, families, and anyone looking to build stronger financial skills.

2026 Topics Include:

• Tax-Filing Basics

• Budgeting & Spending Plans

• Credit Reports

• Getting Out of Debt

• Saving Basics

• Fraud & Scam Prevention

• Money Habits & Holiday Spending

…and more!

Registration for the 2026 Money Matters Live program is now open.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that Monday, January 26 as the opening date of this year's tax filing season. As usual, the tax filing deadline will be April 15th. The IRS says they expect to receive about 164 million income tax returns this year and for most taxpayers to file electronic returns.

IRS tools and resources for tax filing can be found at https://www.irs.gov/help/let-us-help-you and free e-filing options can be found at https://www.irs.gov/e-file-do-your-taxes-for-free. 

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) released its latest report on consumer complaints in December. The report states the CFPB received more than 5.6 million complaints from January 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. 4.8 million were about consumer and credit reporting of which 3.9 million were about Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. 

About 2.4 million of the complaints were about incorrect information on a consumer's credit report or a problem with a credit reporting agency's investigation into an existing problem.

Check out Extension’s learning module on credit report and score basics through Money Matters:

Visit our website to view the February 2026  Agriculture Newsletter!  

Please see newsletter for local and statewide educational opportunities!

Grain producers are invited to attend a Crop Insurance and Grain Marketing Workshop on Wednesday, March 4, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. at the Village of Cecil Community Hall. Hosted by the University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension, this interactive session will help farms better understand 2026 crop insurance updates, evaluate options ahead of the March 16 decision deadline, and strengthen grain marketing plans. The $10 registration fee includes lunch and materials; pre-registration is requested by contacting Scott Reuss at scott.reuss@wisc.edu or 715-701-0966.

Growing fruit crops for your family and for other families is a very tasty venture, but there are potential pitfalls that can impact your enjoyment of the process.  Langlade County Land Conservation is offering a series of workshops that will help you better understand the opportunities, challenges, and necessary activities of successfully managing fruit crops. 

There will be three events in this free series, all on Thursday’s starting at 5:30 p.m.  The first two will take place in the Eau Claire River Room in the basement of the Langlade County Resource Center building located at 837 Clermont St., Antigo.  On February 12, the discussion will focus on fruit selection, planting and early stand management, and soil/fertility management.  Attendees will have the chance to learn about some fruits they probably have not grown but are hardy in our region. 

The March 12 discussion will feature pest identification and management of the various insects and diseases that negatively impact fruit crop plant health and fruit quality.  There are many pests that impact the various fruits.  Some of them are very specific and will only impact one species or family of fruits, while others seemingly eat them all.  Knowing what the different pests are and the management opportunities will allow you to harvest more, better quality fruit.

The final session in the trio will occur March 26 and feature hands-on learning of fruit pruning practices, with the focus on fruit tree crops.  This session is being hosted by Ron Pregler at his fruit orchard, located at N1915 Cty. Road X, Antigo.  At least part of this session will be conducted in the orchard so make sure you dress appropriately for the weather.  If weather is questionable, contact one of the organizers to see if the session has been moved to the Resource Center.   

Leading the discussion at this series of events will be UW-Madison, Division of Extension Crops & Soils Educator Scott Reuss.  The events are free and open to anyone.  Pre-registration is not required, but is appreciated to help ensure that sufficient materials are available for all attendees.  Pre-register by contacting Audrey Gossett at 715-627-6385, ext. 385 or agossett@co.langlade.wi.us or by contacting Scott Reuss at 715-701-0966 or scott.reuss@wisc.edu

Did you know that 4-H Youth Development through University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension operates a Teen Court program right here in Oconto County? Many people are surprised to learn that Oconto County Teen Court is powered by 4-H — and it’s making a powerful difference in the lives of local youth and families.

The Teen Court program has been thoughtfully rebuilt and reenergized under the leadership of Aimee Elkins, 4-H Positive Youth Development Educator and Teen Court Coordinator. Through her work reconnecting with community partners, training new teen panelists, and strengthening restorative justice practices, Teen Court is once again serving as a meaningful option for youth and families in Oconto County.

Teen Court offers youth ages 10–16 who commit a first-time school or community violation a constructive second chance. Instead of traditional punishment, young people appear before a panel of trained high school students who ask thoughtful questions, listen to their story, and assign individualized consequences focused on accountability, growth, and restoration. This peer-to-peer model not only helps participants repair harm and rebuild trust, but also develops leadership, communication, and civic engagement skills in the teen volunteers who serve on the panel.

Grounded in restorative justice principles, Teen Court strengthens our entire community. Youth gain confidence and direction. Families stay engaged. Schools, law enforcement, and community partners have a proactive response option centered on education rather than exclusion. And community members can see firsthand that mistakes do not define our young people — how we respond to them does.

This is 4-H in action beyond the fairgrounds: developing capable leaders, strengthening families, and creating safer, more connected communities. If you believe in second chances and strong youth leadership, Teen Court is a program worth celebrating — and supporting.

2026 Cedar Crest Ice Cream Flavor Creation Contest Winner!

Drumroll, please!

The Pesobic Pathfinders 4-H Club from Lincoln County are the 2026 Cedar Crest Ice Cream Flavor Creation Contest winners with their flavor "Hold Your Horses"!

Shoutout to all of our incredible finalist clubs across Wisconsin for their creativity and teamwork. The winning flavor will be featured by Cedar Crest Ice Cream in July 2026, available in scoop shops across Wisconsin and beyond.

Way to go, Wisconsin 4-H!

You can find previous 4-H flavor contest winners at most grocery stores, including Iverson's Piggly Wiggly in Oconto Falls!

Previous flavors are still available as well, such as WI Campfire Smore's featuring vanilla ice cream with a toasted marshmallow swirl, Reese’s cups, chocolate chunks and graham cracker crumbles and Demo Derby featuring Chocolate Ice Cream Dented with Chocolate Cookie Crumbles, Smashed M&M’s® & Swirled with Chocolate Fudge!

Registration is required and space is limited. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/D2C3FKQ

Emplify Health by Bellin Fitness Center, 1201 Park Avenue, Oconto, WI 2nd Floor Conference Room

 Questions? Contact Wendy Beekman Wendy.Beekman@marinettecountywi.gov or Kasey Ermis Kasey.ermis@emplifyhealth.org 

Your mental and physical health are deeply connected. Learn how to care for both in NAMI Hearts + Minds! NAMI Hearts+Minds is a free, 5-week wellness class for adults living with mental health conditions or their family members. It focuses on how lifestyle, habits, and overall health can support your mental health journey.

This course meets every Wednesday from 6pm-7pm, beginning April 1 through April 29, 2026.

Class dates: April 1, April 8, April 15, April 22, April 29

In this class, you’ll learn about:
The link between mental and physical health
Nutrition, exercise, and sleep
Managing stress and chronic health conditions
Navigating primary care and advocating for health needs
Building daily habits that support long-term wellness

Small changes can make a big difference

Oconto County residents — we want to hear from you!

Oconto County is conducting a Community Health Needs Survey to learn what helps our residents stay healthy and what challenges we face. Your feedback will guide local health priorities, programs, and resources.

The survey is quick, confidential, and your voice matters.

Take the survey and help shape a healthier Oconto County.

 Oconto Community Members:

We’re excited to share that a brand-new After School Club is launching in January 2026 at Oconto Middle School! As we begin this new adventure, we’re introducing Guest Educator Nights every Wednesday—a weekly opportunity for students to learn from the incredible talent and expertise within our community.

We are inviting community members to lead a session on topics such as:

Drug prevention and safety

Psychoeducation and mental wellness

Financial literacy

Practical life skills

Creative hobbies, arts, and crafts

Or any area of knowledge you’re excited to share!

If you would like to participate as a Guest Educator—or know someone in the community who might—please sign up using the link below:

https://forms.gle/tVoCt7t5C94MW8Tz8

Shared on behalf of Hilary Trepanier - Oconto Unified School District

Healthy Living with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): Unpacking Ultra-Processed Foods

Friday, March 6, 2026

9:30 am - 11:30 am

Online via Zoom and in person at various host sites across Wisconsin

Join us for the first installment of the 2026 Healthy Living with MCI education series to learn what ultra-processed foods are and explore why people who eat less of these packaged foods tend to have better health outcomes.

Participants will gain confidence in making food choices that support their brain health and overall well-being.

The program will end with a Q&A session. Free and open to all.

Register to join us live online via Zoom from anywhere:

https://uwmadison.zoom.us/.../jC2NaHfESmeP40IY1rsZLQ...

Or, visit adrc.wisc.edu/mci to register to attend the program in person at one of ten locations across Wisconsin.

A Fun and Rewarding Summer Awaits

Badger Precollege is now enrolling grades 4–12! Our 1-3 week programs range from music to medicine, previewing the college experience.  Click the link below to explore opportunities! 

https://precollege.wisc.edu/?utm_source=inside_uw&utm_medium=featured_editorial&utm_campaign=precollege26&utm_content=inside_uw_january