Council News

Council Meeting

The next 4-H Council Meeting will be held Saturday, March 5^th,   at the Kaufman County Extension Office at 3:30 pm.  Come in work close, and gloves, because we will be doing some work for the use of the building.  (which is a privilege to have a  great place to meet).  We will then have a hotdog supper and then the meeting.

Agenda Items are:

1. Planning County Fair Dance

2. Odyssey Fair Sign up

3. Ag Day Plannings

4. Forney Fit Fest Committee Assignments

5. Annual Banquet Committee Assignments

Council Community Activities

Odyssey Fair in Terrell – March 8 & 9th

We are looking for 10 youth and adults to help with the Odyssey Fair in Terrell to help David Waidler from the Texas Water Board with his Waters Journey Activity.  You will be group leaders helping the 3^rd and 4^th graders move from station to station.

Ag Days for Elementary Schools

Help is needed for the Ag Days for Elementary School students to learn about Agriculture. Group Leaders, and Providing animals for sessions is the main areas we need help with.  Sessions are 20 minutes long and you talk about your project for 15 minutes and then answer questions to the students.

April 13^th – Scurry Rosser   April 14^th – Crandall

May 24^th – Terrell

Sessions that could make good learning lessons needed – Horse, Beef, Pigs, Sheep/Goats, and Small Animals.

Forney Fit Fest – May 7th

4-H Clubs are needed to help with the Forney Fit Fest.  The 4-H Council has decided to participate once again in the Forney Festival with a booth set up of the animal projects and also to focus on fitness fun by hosting a stick horse rodeo for the youngsters at the festival.  Help is needed to showcase the 4-H program, answer questions on what is 4-H and help run the booth and the Stickhorse Rodeo.  Planning will start at the March 4-H Council meeting.  Youth and Adults alike are needed.

Annual 4-H Council Fair Dance

The County Council will be hosting the Annual Fair Dance on April 1^st, from 7-11 p.m. at the Kaufman County Show Grounds. Admittance is $3.00 per person or $5.00 per couple. Adult and teen leaders are needed to help with refreshments and chaperoning the dance.  Please come and have fun!!! Adults are invited to join us.

Swine Project Members Having a Good Luck at the Stock Shows

For the Fort Worth Livestock Shows and the San Antonio Livestock Show the Reznicek Family has been marking up the miles and the ribbons. 
   Jacob and Jordan Reznicek both were hauling several of their gilts to compete in the Breeding gilt Show.  Jordan received Champion Berkshire at the San Antonio Livestock show. 
   Jacob and Jordan Reznicek, and Alexandra Bearden will be heading to the Houston Junior Livestock Market Barrow Show in March.  Good Luck to the 4-H Members!!

Pics Heading to District Competition

    Kaufman County Photography Teen Leader Catlyn Wold helps Hannah and Abby Celella learn how to crop and mount their photos for the district IV 4-H Photography contest.
   This year the photography project members traveled to the Dallas Arboretum, around the county and down to the Bell County 4-H Photo clinic to prepare for the county, District, and State competitions. 
    County Photo entries will be due on March 22nd at the County Extension Office.  For entry forms go to the County Website and then to publications.

4-H'ers on the Last Leg to the County Fair

   Kaufman County 4-H Leaders and Members are on the last planning stages for the Kaufman County Junior Livestock Show.  Members working with their Project leaders are working hard to make their projects the best they can be. 
   Getting weights on your projects is very important, in addition to  making sure they stay trained to make your project very manageable in the arena.  If you are needing help call the extension office to help get checked in with the appropriate project leaders.  The market lambs and market/dairy goats will be having a showmanship practice and a clip day later in the month of March.
    Pictured is Hannah and Abby Celella asking their dad, Dr Celella to help them learn about getting measurements on their lambs. 

First Weekend of the Fort Worth Stock Show a GREAT Success!!

The following 4-H'ers from Kaufman County participated in the Fort Worth Stock Show Junior Heifer and Junior Breeding Swine Show.
Participating the in the Junior Heifer Show was.
Zack Busy-Hawes – 7th place Jan 2010 Shorthorn Heifer
Cassidy Urive – 1st place Jan 2010 Polled Hereford Heifer
Justin Jenkins – 7th March 2010 Maine Anjou Heifer
Hailey Hawes – 1st with a July 2009 Maine Anjou Heifer
Clarissa Perez – 3rd with a Sept 2010 Shorthorn Heifer
Cameron Cunningham – 7th with a June 2010 Shorthorn Heifer
Bailey Buchanan – 3rd Oct 2009 Angus Heifer
Brooke Jones – 2nd with a Oct 2009 Angus Heifer
Brooke Adams – 2nd with a Sept 2009 Angus Heifer
Micheal Hawes – Reserve Grand Champion Hereford Heifer

In the Junior Breeding Swine Show...

Jacob Reznicek – 6th and 7th Class 56 Berkshire Gilts
Jordan Reznicek – 7th Class 54 Berkshire Gilts

District IV Lock-In a BIG succes!!!

Congratulations to the 4-H’ers and the 4-H Leaders/Parents that braved a night at the Amazing Jakes in Plano with the other 200 4-H’ers from across District IV.  Kaufman County took in one of the largest delegations for a long time with 22 representing the county.  Good Job everyone!!!

Those brave enough to attend was Cassie Boyd, Judy and Michelle Braddock, Emily Donaldson, Meagan, Quentin, and Tiffany Gravelle, McKenna Kuzma, Jacob Long, Megan and Micheal Matzka, Chelsea and Kayleigh  Page, Kaitlyn and Angela Pagel, Kaylee and Mark Rodriguez, Emily Stout, Kaylie Sutton, Kelvin and Renee Word, and Carrie Sharp.

There are some great photos on the District IV 4-H Facebook page .

Recipe Rally for the Texas 4-H State Roundup

Countdown to Roundup #22 - Recipe Rally – The Texas 4-H & Youth Development Program and the 4-H Healthy Lifestyles Advisory Board is pleased to offer intermediate and senior age 4-H members the opportunity to participate in the 4-H Recipe Rally. 4-H members are “challenged” with creating a recipe and submitting a video of them demonstrating the preparation of the recipe. Two entry deadlines are remaining for this contest. Entries not selected as the winner of a group may be re-submitted for consideration in the next group. The winner from each “group” will be invited to compete in the 4-H Recipe Rally on Tuesday, June 14, 2011 at Texas 4-H Roundup. Remaining entry deadlines for each group are listed below:

Group, Deadline, Winner Announced by:
-January 31st, Midnight March 1st
-March 31st,  Midnight May 1st

If you would like to know more about this contest or about what Texas 4-H Roundup is contact the county extension office.

Texas Wildlife Bridgades

Helen Holdsworth, 800-TEX-WILD, hholdsworth@texas-wildlife.org

SAN ANGELO
Registration for the Texas AgriLife Extension Service's Texas Brigades camps this summer has begun.

Youth are taught leadership skills and natural resources conservation at Texas Brigades camps scattered across the state, said Dr. Dale Rollins, AgriLife Extension wildlife specialist at San Angelo and the camp concept's originator.

Rollins said each camp is limited to 20-30 students from ages 13-17.

"The camps are designed to develop life skills such as critical thinking and team building through fun and interesting activities that focus on a particular species of wildlife," Rollins said.

"As I reflect on my career, the dividends I've witnessed from the Brigades camps are not only professionally rewarding, but they also stoke my fires daily to push for conservation education," he said. "And I believe those same sentiments apply to each and every one of the 100 or so volunteers who assist with the various camps.

"A lot of high school students aspire to find a career in wildlife management, but the field has always been highly competitive," Rollins added. "Participation in the Brigade camps offers them a chance to get not only a taste for such careers, but also to develop a network of contacts who can help them achieve their career goals. The Brigades network is one big family."

The camp dates and locations are:
-€“ 12th Battalion South Texas Buckskin Brigade -€“ Carrizo Springs, June 5-9.
-“ 19th Battalion Rolling Plains Bobwhite Brigade -€“ Coleman, June 18-22.
-€“ 14th Battalion South Texas Bobwhite Brigade - Campbellton, June 26-30.
-€“ 6th Battalion Bass Brigade – Santa Anna, July 11-15.
-€“ 10th Battalion North Texas Buckskin Brigade -€“ Albany, July 17-21.

"Parents love the program," said Helen Holdsworth, San Antonio-based Texas Brigades executive director. "They appreciate the level of education offered by the wildlife and natural resource professionals, as well as the challenges presented to the participants. We offer a high-quality, unique experience for the students.

"We receive many positive reports back from cadets and parents about the Brigades," Holdsworth said. "One father sent an email to Dr. Rollins."

Holdsworth said the father wrote: "For two summers, now, I have seen how these kids become very passionate about wildlife and conservation. And I have seen firsthand how my own son has grown as a person as well, thanks to y’all."

In another correspondence Holdsworth mentioned, Charlie Neuendorff of Fayetteville wrote, "The camp was life changing; it was the best experience of my life. I made wonderful friends, and I am excited to hopefully see them next year when we all return as Assistant Covey Leaders."

The camps are a partnership effort of the AgriLife Extension, Texas Wildlife Association, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, several universities, conservation groups, local soil and water conservation districts, private businesses and individuals with an interest in wildlife and youth leadership development.

Tuition is $400 per cadet per camp, but Rollins said sponsors are available to provide financial aid when needed.

"We're also always looking for highly motivated adults from 20 to 60 years of age who are willing to serve as 'covey school' or 'herd' leaders," Rollins said. "They'll get a one-of-a-kind intensive workshop in the game species they choose. But even better, they'll get a full helping of appreciation and optimism about today's youth and what a powerful impact they can have on conservation."

If your club would like to hear more Nathan Stibbons went last year. He has a great program to tell of his experiences.

Applications may be completed online or downloaded at http://www.texasbrigades.org.
For more information, contact Holdsworth at hholdsworth@texas-wildlife.org or Kassi Scheffer at kscheffer@texas-wildlife.org or 800-TEX-WILD or 210-826-2904.

4-H has Talent!!!

Do you have what it takes to be a star? Have you always pictured yourself performing on the “Big Stage?” If so, the 2011 Texas 4-H Roundup 4-H Has Talent Competition is for you. Get the chance to show your skills on stage in front of nearly 3,000 fellow 4-Hers, parents/volunteers, and 4-H faculty. So sing a song, do a dance, tell a joke or just do something unusual!
Submit Youtube videos to Kyle Merten (kjmerten@ag.tamu.edu)
Entries must be received by April 1, 2011
For complete details please visit the following site: http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/youth/roundup/index.php

Houston Livestock Show &Rodeo Ag Products contest

The deadline for entry into the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Ag Product ID Contest has been extended to February 1, 2011.  This contest gives youth the opportunity to show off what they know about TEXAS AGRICULTURE through identification of Texas Ag Products.  Prizes include $200 school supply gift cards, trophies and banners.  The contest wil be held at the Houston Reliant Center on March 8, 2011 and is open to 4-H and FFA youth ages 14 to 18 as of August 31, 2010.  For all the details and rules go to http://www.rodeohouston.com/access/livestock/handbook.aspx and type in the search box "Ag Product ID".

County Fair Validation this Coming Saturday - 8 am to 10 am!!!

The County Fair Tag in is just less than a week away.  I was in the office this morning and was taking several phone calls.  On the county website ( http://kaufman-co.tamu.edu/pubcat.cfm?COUNTY=Kaufman&CatID=632  ) we have the county fair entry sheets for you to print down.  DO NOT JUST FILL OUT AND MAIL TO THE SHOWBOARD.  You have to have them signed by the Extension Agent!! Last year we almost had two entries rejected because they were not signed by the 4-H agent and were just sent in.

 

Frequently asked questions about county fair tag in.

 

1. What animals need to come to the fairgrounds on Saturday?

 

Market Goats, Un Registered Commercial Boer Does, Market Hogs, Market Lambs

 

2. Which goats need to be tagged in?

 

Market Goats for the Market show need to be tagged in.  Dairy Goats and Nigerian Dwarf Goats will enter on the "Breeding Animal" entry form.  If you have a Commercial Boer Doe that is registered IN YOUR NAME (just like a heifer) then you can use the "Breeding Animal" form.  If your commercial Boer Doe is not registered then you need to tag in the doe. 

 

3. What about my Rabbit Entries?

 

Eventhough we are just now breeding our does for the Meat Pens you HAVE to turn in your entry for how many pens you want to enter for the county fair.  This is done on the Market Pens Rabbit Entry form.  Your Breeding Rabbits will be also entered in and if they are not born yet put down "pending" for the birthdate stuff.  They will be entered on the Breeding Rabbit form.  Again all of the forms need to be signed by me to make them complete for entry into the county fair.

 

4. Broiler Pens? Where do I get my chicks?

 

When you fill out the Broiler entry form the FFA advisor from Scurry Rosser will order your chicks for you and they will come in last part of February for you to start to raise for the county fair.  So you will order in multiples of 25 for $1.30 each chick then you will pay for how many pens you want to have in the show.  So if you order 25 chick you will pay $32.50 and then you will enter how ever many pens at $7 each pen of 3 for the show.

 

5. The Breeding Animal entry form...

 

This entry form is for Breeding heifers, Nigerian Dwarf Goats, REGISTERED Commercial Does, and Dairy Goats.  Make sure the information is correct and Breeding Heifer entries must include a copy of the registration papers.

DEADLINE TO SIGNUP!!! FOR LOCK IN!!!

REMINDER!!! DEADLINE TO SIGNUP IS JANUARY 6TH!!!

Time: The lock –in will run from 7:00 p.m., January 14, 2011 until 6:00 am on Saturday, January 15, 2011.  Youth must be picked up no later than 6:20 am.

Place:  Amazing Jakes at Collin Creek Mall, Plano, TX.

Who: All district IV 4-Hers age 11 and up are invited for a night of workshops and fun!

Cost: The cost will be $32 Youth/Adult (includes workshop materials, unlimited food & games), or Youth/Adult $11 (includes all of the above without games).

Registration on 4-H Connect begins on December 1^st, 2010 and runs through January 6^th, 2011. 

 To find out just how fun this night can be just talk to last years attendees!! Kelvin Word and Catlyn Word!!  They can totally fill you in.  

(By the way your fearless 4-H Agent would like to extend the invitation to any fearless adults that would like to join in on the "action" )

: )

Share the Fun Ideas

4-H Leaders, Club Managers and Parents

If you have youth who are looking for ideas for Share The Fun, check out some of these videos on YouTube for some creative and FUN performances!  County Roundup is March 12th with District competition following on April 30th.  Look to see what fun you all can have with the Share the Fun Competition.

Vegetable Orchestra (Group Performance/Band) -- http://www.tvkim.com/watch/597/kims-picks-making-music-with-vegetables

Turkey Baster Serenade (Musical or Group Performance/Band) -- http://www.tvkim.com/watch/588/kims-picks-a-turkey-baster-serenade

Percussion using various objects (Group Performance/Band) -- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26vMityeCFQ

Stomp Dance Routine -- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOdRfKpFvqQ&feature=related

Basketball Dribbling Exhibition (choreographed routine) -- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQIPsfiO_yA

Jump Rope Routine (choreographed Routine) -- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqI7cGM9mWs

Singing/Beatboxing (Group Performance/Band) -- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bq6Vdkyc_64&feature=related

A capella vocal performance (all voices -- no instruments!) I've seen this group in Branson! -- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tb4DOJ5-WXw

Looking for some ideas for Celebrate 4-H Skits? Here are a few ideas that I've been able to come up with! You might add to the list!

* Disney Characters Explore 4-H

* showcase your one day 4-H project and how SERVICE made an impact

* Use a current sit-com, movie, cartoon, soap opera or television show to play off of the story line! Keep it CURRENT!

* Use a current game show like "Deal or No Deal" to create a skit

* Use a popular children's story and re-write the story to be 4-H related

* And the list could be endless!

If you want to be blessed during this holiday season, cut and paste the link below and watch the viral video!

http://www.tvkim.com/watch/600/kims-picks-an-unexpected-christmas-concert?utm_medium=nl&utm_source=dotd&utm_content=2010-11-27-fifl&utm_campaign=n

Good luck as you work on developing theater and performance arts in youth!!!

Thanks!

State 4-H Council Community Service Projects

It is with great pleasure that I share with you one of the Community Service programs that your State 4-H Council has selected to support and promote: Breedlove Foods Inc.

Breedlove Foods Inc. is a Texas based 501(c)(3) charitable, non-profit organization that is dedicated to feeding the hungry...the malnourished...the poor...the sick...the underprivileged...the destitute...the famished...the starved...the needy...the impoverished...the deprived...

Did you know that:

Well over 1,000,000,000 people will go to bed hungry tonight. 1 man, woman, or child dies every 2.9 seconds from hunger-related causes.

Worldwide, more than 1.2 billion people currently live on less than $1.00 per day.

Your Texas 4-H Council is challenging you to help!

The number one thing you can do to help Breedlove Inc. help others is to give a monetary donation.

However, the Texas 4-H Council encourages each district / county to raise money by doing something good for your community.

The Council has put together just a few ideas to get you started thinking:

● Pick up cans on a highway and take cans to a recycling plant. Use the money as your donation.

● Mow neighborhoods yards for donations only.

● Set a goal, and have your county extension agent do something crazy as a reward for reaching it! (Kiss a pig)

● Host a Donkey Basketball Game

● Have a Bake Sale

● Hold a Car Wash

● Start a Penny War between counties or clubs

● Have a County wide bingo tournament

DATES TO REMEMBER

Turn in your money and the order form to your district office by May 6th. Your district office will then turn in the amount to the State by May 13th.

The district that raises the most money will be recognized at Texas-H Roundup!

The promotional flyer is attached and was designed for in a color format that copies well for duplication purposes.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

For more information about the Breedlove Community Service project contact:

State Community Service Committee Chair Micala Michaud at texaschic94@gmail.comor your district council officers.

For Christmas!!! NEW Drawstring Bags

 New for Kaufman County 4-H'ers!! The perfect gift... A new drawstring bag that features Kaufman County 4-H on it.  It even has reflector strips for saftey!! 

We only have 80 to sell.  They are $10 each.  Contact Carrie for getting some at cl-sharp@tamu.edu.

Reproducing

Reproducing

The Ruminants Unlimited 4-h meeting on Monday 25, 2010 was on artificial insemination. Mr. David Crawford came to talk to us about reproduction. He demonstrate how to AI a goat. All of the members got a very hands on experience and a life time memory. We learned the importance of animal reproduction and how it impacts our food chain.

And a big thank you to Mr. David Crawford for coming and teaching us how to AI a goat and the importance of doing so!

Hannah Wallace

4-h reporter

Photography Project Meeting this Friday Night

Photography Project meeting will be reviewing the pictures we took at the arboretum. Also, bring whatever pictures you would like to put on a holiday card and we will be printing those out at this meeting as well. Any questions give me a call on my cell. The meeting will be at the Extention Office, see you then!

Debbie Wold  If you have questions call 469-595-1752 cell

Peanut Sales are in Full Swing!!!

Peanut Sales are HERE!!

Once again the council is hosting Peanut Sales for the clubs to help raise money.  Last year the 4-H Council was the high seller of over $300 for the council. Contact your council representative or go online to download the form.  The form is a 8.5x14 sheet.  Deadline for peanut orders is December 6^th, 2010.  We have put the form on the County Website listed above.  Remember when printed off the sheet it is on 8.5 X 14.  This is a great fundraiser for your club!!

District IV 4-H Lock-In January 14 & 15, 2011

REMINDER!!! DEADLINE TO SIGNUP IS JANUARY 6TH!!!

Time: The lock –in will run from 7:00 p.m., January 14, 2011 until 6:00 am on Saturday, January 15, 2011.  Youth must be picked up no later than 6:20 am.

Place:  Amazing Jakes at Collin Creek Mall, Plano, TX.

Who: All district IV 4-Hers age 11 and up are invited for a night of workshops and fun!

Cost: The cost will be $32 Youth/Adult (includes workshop materials, unlimited food & games), or Youth/Adult $11 (includes all of the above without games).

Registration on 4-H Connect begins on December 1^st, 2010 and runs through January 6^th, 2011. 

 To find out just how fun this night can be just talk to last years attendees!! Kelvin Word and Catlyn Word!!  They can totally fill you in.  

(By the way your fearless 4-H Agent would like to extend the invitation to any fearless adults that would like to join in on the "action" )

: )

Good Luck to the Beef Quiz Bowl Team this weekend!!

Good Luck to the Kaufman County Beef Quiz bowl team in the District Competition this weekend in Poetry.  Hope you all make it to state!!!

Kaufman 4-H to Start Sending Care Packages - Come join in!!!

Kaufman 4-H has adopted three people who are Serving Our Country in the military to send care packages to.  We will be sending items and letters thru out the year.  Our first package will be going out December 7th.  Please drop donations by the extension office or call Judy 214)499-2997 to pick up.  When dropping off at extension office please let Jackie know the items are for the Care Packages.

Include a card or letter, telling alittle about yourself and thank them for the contribution to our Country.

Food Items

• Individual size snacks or cans of Pringles, pretzels, cookies, crackers, nuts, trail mix, peanut butter or cheese crackers, sunflower seeds
• Hard Candy (Lifesavers, Jolly Ranchers, Tootsie Pops) and Mints
• Gummy bears, chewing gum
• Individual servings of powdered drinks for water bottles such as Lemonade, Gatorade, Kool-Aid, Tang, Lipton To Go Tea, Crystal Light On The Go, energy drinks, Propel
• Individual coffee, tea bags
• Beef Jerky, Slim Jims (no pork allowed)
• Pop Tarts, Nutri-Grain, Granola, Cereal Bars, trail mix
• Small flip top canned fruit
• Pudding cups
• Peanut Butter (small plastic container)  
• Chocolate between the months of October and April only (M&Ms are acceptable)

Other Items

• White socks (calf or boot height)
• Hand/Toe Warmers
• Black knitted caps
• Footballs, baseballs, gloves
• Crossword Puzzles, Word Search, Sudoku 
• Playing Cards, board games, card games 
• Stationery & Envelopes
• Pens/Pencils
• Assorted Greeting Cards for Soldiers to send to family & friends
• Batteries (AA)
• Glade Stick-ups or room deodorizers
• Bug Repellent in lotions & pump-spray bottles-- NO AEROSOL

2011 State Photography Contest New Exciting classes

We are excited that some major changes have been made in both the submission process and photography categories for the year. These changes will add a new dimension as well as provide greater opportunity for our 4-H members to demonstrate their skills in both photography and photography development. All submissions for the STATE contest will be done electronically and will not require the expense of printing, mounting, and mailing photos for the contest.
Because of these changes we ask that you please take some time from your schedule to read and review the rules so all questions you may receive can be answered correctly. This information will be posted on the 4-H and Youth Development Photography contest.

Kaufman 4-H to host a fish fry on sunday

Kaufman 4-H will be hosting a fish fry November 7th noon to 3:00pm at Wings in Kaufman. Fish basket and drink $6.00. Get your tickets from any Kaufman 4-h member or purchase at the door. Proceeds will benifit our community service project - Working with the Rainbow Room, Foster children of Kaufman.

2011 Consumer Decision Making Contest

Making consumer decisions can be confusing. We are overwhelmed by the sheer number of consumer choices available to us in the real and the electronic marketplace. In the supermarket alone, there are thousands of goods to choose from. This guide will help you become an informed consumer and a smarter shopper. In the 4-H Consumer Decision Making contest you will learn how to decide which goods and services best meet your needs. And you will learn a fail-proof process for making wise consumer decisions.

In preparation for the 4-H Consumer Decision Making Contest at State Roundup 2011, please use the Study Guides and other materials posted in PDF format at this website. Please check back periodically for updates to the materials. Additional Study Guides will be posted when they become available.

• Bottled Water (PDF)
• Digital Photo Frames (PDF)
• Laundry Detergents (PDF)
• Roth IRAs for Working Kids (PDF)
• Sunscreen (PDF)

Houston Livestock Show Public Speaking and Quality Counts Multi Media contest

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is once again offering 4-H and FFA members the chance to win cash awards through Public Speaking and the Quality Counts Multi Media Contest.

 

Public speaking is divided into two age divisions and provides both Sr, and Jr 4-Hers the opportunity to win cash for a skill they are already developing in 4-H.

 

The Quality Counts Multi-Media contest offers technology oriented youth the opportunity to participate in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, even if they can't travel to Houston.

 

Both of these contests are excellent opportunities supporting valuable programs our youth are already engaged in.

 

Note the entry deadline for both of these contests is the same as livestock entries, December 1, 2010.

 

Fall District IV Contests have a new Deadline Date!!

The District 4-H Specialist has made a correction on the registration deadline for the CDM and Quiz Bowl contests.  The new deadline is midnight October 29.  This should give families a few more days to get registered (than the deadline formerly published).  Typically, district event deadlines are 3 weeks prior to the event.  This date puts us back in consistency with that.

 

Registration is already open on 4-H Connect, so your teams/individuals can go ahead and register at any time.  Before you certify an individual's entry on the county level, please make sure all members of his/her team have registered.  

Lets see if we have anyone in Kaufman County interested in competing in the Consumer Decision Making, Horse Quiz bowl, Beef Quiz Bowl or Nutrition Quiz.  : )  Reach out and try something new.

Working CowHorse Clinic - December 27-29, 2010

East Texas Horse Show Committee is hosting a Working Cow Horse Clinic and 3 yr old Futurity Clinic for 4-Her's and Adults on December 27-29, 2010. The event will be held in Athens at the Henderson County Fair Park arena.

This year instructors will be -

Dr. Matt McMillian from Sam Houston State University for the Reined Horse Part, along with his Stock Horse Team members for individual work.

Cody Maxwell, Coach for SHSU Stock Horse Team and Ralph Davis will be on the Cow Work.

Dr. Matt McMillian also be assisting with the 3 yr old Futurity Project training along with Lisa Roberts, Kaufman County Alumni Stock Horse team member

Kaufman County Horse Committee Leaders will also be on hand to help with individual work

For more information or questions please contact Carrie Sharp at the Texas AgriLife Extension, Kaufman County 4-H.

NEW!! Food and Nutrition curriculum available!!

The Texas 4-H & Youth Development Program is pleased to announce that Winning with Nutrition - a 4-H sports nutrition curriculum - is now available! Targeting 7th - 9th grade athletes, the goal of implementing the Winning with Nutrition curriculum is to provide youth athletes an opportunity to learn about proper nutrition, dietary needs, supplements, hydration and healthy methods to increase physical performance.

In addition to the curriculum, various resources to support its implementation have been made available. A summary of the items available include:

- Media Presentations to support each curriculum lesson;

- Student Evaluation - scannable form that can be sent to Organizational Development for processing, with a summary of the results then sent to you;

- Teacher Evaluation - form that can be used to seek feedback from teachers implementing the curriculum; and

- Teacher In-Service Resources - including a training agenda, training powerpoint (with notes) and a training evaluation instrument - to be used by agents when training teachers.

All of the resources, including the curriculum, is located on the Texas 4-H Website. From the home page, click on "publications," then "enrichment curriculum." The direct link is: http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/publications/enrichment/index.php. The curriculum and all of the resources mentioned above are located under the healthy lifestyles section. The curriculum is also available in the AgriLife Bookstore. BUT I have a copy in the office if you would like to take a look : )

TONIGHT!!! Scurry Rosser 4-H to Host a REALLY good Speaker.

ALL 4-H MEMBERS INVITED!! Oct 12th Everyone is welcome!! Open invitation! We would love to have other  clubs represented that night. The meeting is Oct. 12th Tuesday 6:30pm at the Scurry Rosser Middle School. The guest speaker is a family friend of Dianna Sutton, Retired New York Firefighter Lt. Kevin Shea.... here is some background info on Kevin. 1) He was one of the key rescue firefighters involved in a famous rope  rescue which aired on an episode of Rescue 911... you can watch it on You Tube- Rescue 911 Episode 311  "N.Y. Double Rope Rescue" (its in 3 parts on you tube) 2) He sustained injuries during the first World Trade  Center bombing in 1993, which forced him into early retirement. 3) His Engine Company was one that was  involved in the World Trade Center 9/11 attacks... All of his friends on duty that day were killed. (including  some that are in the Rescue 911 episode with him). He spent countless hours searching for his friends and  co-workers after the attacks. 4) Kevin today lives in Montana and is an avid traditional bow hunter, small and  Big game and is an experienced fly-fisherman. He does speaking engagements across the USA , involved  in making hunting/fishing videos for a company, and does some firefighting instructing. He has graciously said  he would be the guest speaker at our club on October 12th. This will be a question and answer format. And  he has said the questions can be about anything and will even answer questions about his experience at the world trade center as well as 9/11 questions. Everyone is welcome, and anyone, even parents, are welcome  to ask questions. Please bring your questions with you that night.

Kaufman Square Garden Spot Grows with Help from the 4-H Garden Club

Isaac Stecher and Reuben Stecher from the 4H Gardening Club designed a bed on the square in the city of Kaufman. Along with younger siblings and some little friends, the boys planted a crape myrtle, yellow daylilies, and 20 pots of groundcover.  All plants were donated by Walls Family Farm for the Gardening Club to use in their project.

4-H Nutrition Project Training - October 7th, 6:30 pm

Attention all Adult Leaders and Parents :

Dee Lee Smith has scheduled an adult leader training for all those interested in teaching/leading any part of the 4-H Nutrition Project components - Food Challenge, Nutrition Quiz Bowl, or Food Show.  The training will be held in conjunction with Kaufman County and held at the Kaufman County Office (they have a meeting room and kitchen facilities).

Date:  Thursday, October 7, 2010

Location:  Kaufman County Office - Hwy 34, Kaufman

Directions:  Take Hwy 243 from Canton, to Kaufman, turn Right onto Hwy 34 just before you get into downtown Kaufman.  If you pass Sonic on your Left, you have gone too far.  The Kaufman County office is approximately 2 miles on Hwy 34 and will be on your Left.  It is in the office building with Farm Bureau. 

Time:  6:15 p.m.  - set up and sign in  Start Time:  6:30 p.m.  (You will need to register, prior to attending) 

Registration:  Deadline - Monday, October 4th - before 5:00 p.m. by calling the Van Zandt County Office at 903-567-4149 and having Eva put you on the list.  We need you to do this so that we have enough supplies and materials for everyone.  Please bring $5.00 with you to help offset costs for food, if we get enough sponsors you will not have to pay.  Drinks will be provided:  Regular Coca~Cola, Regular Dr. Pepper, Tea, and Bottled Water - if you have a preference for something else, please bring it with you.

We will be concentrating on Food Challenge - especially, but will go over Nutrition Quiz Bowl and Food Show.  We do not have guidelines for Food Show, but I can provide you with information from discussions as it pertains to food show. 

Expectations from this training:  Adult Leaders will be able to teach and train 4-H youth on Food Challenge, Nutrition Quiz Bowl, and Food Show guidelines.  Adult Leaders will learn concepts and activities to use in training youth.  Adult Leaders will gain knowledge in basic food safety principles and nutrition information consistent with what is taught to youth at the junior, intermediate, and senior levels.  Examples of activities, forms, and other available information will be provided. 

Who should attend:  All 4-H community clubs should have at least one or two leaders assigned to the nutrition project.  These leaders and/or club managers should plan on attending.  This workshop is for adults only - no youth will be trained at this workshop/training.  If youth are attending, they need to have clearance from Carrie Sharp, for Kaufman County and Dee Lee Smith for Van Zandt County, and be approved as a 4-H Teen Nutrition Leaders.  I have not given any clearances this year 2010/2011. 

I expect this workshop to last at least 2 hours, but not more than 3 hours.  I know this is long, but if we can't get everything covered we will have another workshop.  


Thanks and hope to see you there!

2011 Share the Fun Rules and Guidelines

Please find attached the updated 2011 State Share The Fun Rules & Guidelines.  Please note the following changes for 2011:

Clarification of two categories have been made:
* Musical--Instrumental -- This category will allow for 1 to 9 performers who play instruments only.  Last year this category was individuals only.
* Solo/Band Performance -- This category will allow for 1 to 9 performers who sing and play instruments.  Last year this category was called Band and required 2 to 9 performers.  This category will now allow individuals to sing and play and groups of 2 to 9 to sing and/or play.

The Share The Fun contest will be held on Thursday, June 16 at State Roundup!  There will be no categories on Wednesday.  We will have 3 contest locations with 2 categories in each room.  All contests should be able to finish up between 12-1:00 pm with awards at approximately 3:00.  Unloading of props and a contestant/coach orientation will be held on Wednesday afternoon!

Attachments:  Share the Fun Rules and Guidelines

The 4-H Photography Project is Clicking Off to a Great Start

The 4-H Photography Project members met at the 4-H Extension Office to start exploring new ways to take pictures.  The photography project encourages self-expression and teaches proper use of photographic equipment and developing processes. In addition, Photography provides opportunities for career exploration and promoting 4-H.  Teen Project Leader Catlyn Wold of Terrell (3rd from left) works with junior 4-H members on special effects done with easy at home props.
Next project meeting will be going to the Dallas Arboretum for fall foliage pictures.

Textile 4-H Group Learning new ideas.

The 4-H Textile project led by Pandora Bonner of Kaufman is learning new sewing ideas with material not normally worked with in the textile project and then how to market their ideas.  The 4-H'ers are learning to sew bags and totes from plastic feed sacks that are collected from local supporters.  Then the 4-H'ers design a bag using the logos from the feed sack to make handy re-usable items.
The youth learn alot about choosing their materials, cutting them to a free hand design, putting in a zipper, to finding ways to market them to raise money for their textile project.
Picture 1 - Kaitlyn Lumpkin, Chloe Costello and Project Leader Laurie Celella learn how to set the tension on the sewing machine for different types of materials.

Picture 2 - Senior 4-H'ers Caroline Costello and Cassie Boyd help cut designs and start the sewing process for the younger 4-H'ers.

Rabbit Project Members Prepare for the State Fair

Kaufman County 4-H Rabbit Project Members Abby Celella of Poetry, Kaitlyn Pagel of Forney, and Kaitlyn Lumpkin of Kaufman work with 4-H Project Leader Angela Pagel to prepare for the State Fair of Texas Rabbit Show held on October 1st to the 3rd in Dallas. Also showing in Dallas will be Hannah Celella of Poetry and Kevin Pagel of Forney.  Good Luck 4-H'ers!!

Texas Rabbit Extravaganza Time is Here!!!

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TEXAS RABBIT EXTRAVAGANZA

November 20, 2010

Coryell County Activity Complex,

303 Veterans Memorial Loop Gatesville, TX.

YOU DO NOT HAVE TO OWN A RABBIT TO PARTICIPATE. 

People who do not own rabbits can still compete in

Rabbit breed identification, Rabbit hands-on judging, Rabbit educational poster, Rabbit photo contests, Rabbit art (graphic/handicrafts) contests, Rabbit t-shirt design.

   Other contests include Rabbit showmanship, Best dressed rabbit costume & THE RABBIT SHOW!!

   Volunteers are always needed.  The show could not go on without you!!

 

For more information or to volunteer contact Kathy Brase at 254-216-9199 or Eddie Bruton at 254-223-0284 or e-mail the Rabbit Extravaganza Booster Club at rabbitevents@yahoo.com.

SEE YOU THERE!

Please NOTE:   NEW email address for the Extravaganza for all future correspondence is:

rabbitevents@yahoo.com

Please use this new email for all future correspondence relating to the event. 

Catalog and Waiver form can be found on the State 4-H website .

State website will also have special events score sheets (no changes from last year) and the Showmanship Guide and score sheet that is used for the Extravaganza.

Contact numbers for show officials are listed in the catalog.

This email will not be monitored on a regular basis, so again, please direct all e-communications to the new email address as noted above.

Good luck!

News from the Gardening Club 4-H Project Leader

Hello to all you who are interested in the 4H Gardening Club!

 

The Gardening Club is a project club and will meet 4x this fall semester.

Our meeting dates are:

September 25th

October 9th

October 30th

November 13th

 

We will be meeting from 9AM to 12PM at Walls Family Farm. If you need directions, please drop me a line/call me and I'll get directions to you.

 

Younger siblings are welcome to come as long as a parent is with them at all times to help with noise and motion. If they are able to join in, the more the merrier!

 

Our meeting on September 25th will be all about composting, specifically vermi-composting...which is composting with worms! Yes, there will be worms on site for you to touch and do experiments with.

We will be preparing our garden beds with compost and topping everything off with hay to insulate and compost into our beds.

 

If you are interested in doing a gardening/horticulture project, you will find enough learning experiences just at our meetings this year to fill out an entire project. Remember! 4H is not just about animals! You can have a great year and fill an entire record book with projects without ever touching anything that eats, drinks, or has hair!

 

Things to bring if you have it:

A pitch fork or shovel for spreading hay and compost.

A plastic tub with lid if you want to take some worms home with you for fishing or for your own garden.

Wear clothes and shoes appropriate for dirt and fun!

 

PLEASE FEEL FREE TO PASS THIS ON TO ANYONE ELSE INTERESTED IN THE GARDENING PROJECT CLUB OR 4H IN GENERAL! THANKS!

 

See you at 9!

 

Vicki Stecher

Sam Houston State University Youth Horse Judging contest

Sam Houston State University is hosting a horse judging clinic and contest Saturday November 6, 2010.  The event will be held on the campus of SHSU and will include instruction on Reining, Western Riding, Hunter Hack, Trail, Western Horsemanship, and Hunt Seat Equitation.  The clinic and contest is open to youth as well as adults.  The clinic will be held from 8:30 to 1pm with lunch provided.  The contest will be held from 1:30 to 3:30 pm.  Registration forms will soon be available at http://www.shsu.edu/agr.  Please pass along to whomever you may think would be interested.  For more information see attached flyer or contact Dr. Matt McMillan at mlm018@shsu.edu.  Thanks for your interest.

New Tractor Supply Partnership - See What's in Store for your 4-H

National 4-H Council is thrilled to announce that we are partnering with Tractor Supply Company (TSC) on a multi-year, multi-faceted cause marketing and sponsorship program! TSC will provide support to 4-H nationally and locally through various retail fundraising events, such as Paper Clover Promotions, and offer special discounts and other opportunities to 4-H’ers. Following are some of the exciting components of this program:

4-H Memory Contest – Win a TSC gift card by submitting your favorite 4-H memory, visit the TSC website to learn more.
Out Here with Animals Event (Oct. 2, 2010) - Kick off National 4-H Week at your local TSC by participating in Out Here with Animals!  See FAQ for more information.
Fall Paper Clover Promotion (November 5-14, 2010) – Save-the-date, more information coming soon!
TSC Reusable Bags (In-stores now!) – See FAQ for more information.

Texas 4-H News

There are six new blog items for this week.  

ENJOY!!!

1.  The Child-Driven Education - by Sugata Mitra - Video from TED - A video that could revolutionize the way we teach youth.  WOW!
2.  one day 4-H less than one month away!
3.  News Release - Stripes Mobile Campaign
4.  4-H Natural Resource Programs (including Shooting Sports)
5.  Now Premiering at a Computer Near You: The 4-H Blitz Video
6.  4-H Robotics Report

To view the blog, please click below:

http://texas4-hpractitioners.blogspot.com/

Have a great week!!

District IV 4-H Fall Focus - September 18th

The District IV 4-H Program is kicking off the 2010-2011 4-H year with a Fall Focus on September 18th.
We will begin with our Regular Business Meeting at 1:00 P.M. followed by educational workshops between 2 and 6 P.M. for both youth and adult participants.
Youth topics will include; Writing & Publicity, Service Learning, Team Building, Etiquette, and Recreation Ideas.
Adult workshops will cover New Parent / Leader 101, 4‐H Scholarship Program, Recordbook Tips, Educational Presentations, and Club Resources (Club Ed & the Recreation Handbook).
Dinner, carnival games, and a dance will round off the night. Activities will end at 9:30 P.M.
Youth ages 13 to 19, District Delegates and Adult Leaders are encouraged to attend. Registration is available on 4-H Connect (https://texas.4honline.com/) until September 11th. Full registration (workshops, meals, and evening activities) is $12 and those who do not wish to stay for the evening activities and dinner can register for $4.

one day 4-H: How are you going to Make a Difference for Life?

On Saturday, October 9, 2010 4-H members all across Texas will once again give back to the the communities and counties that have provided support to our program for more than 103 years. 

one day 4-H, is our programs way of making a difference in the lives of Texas.  Each 4-H member is encouraged on a individual, club, and/or county level to step forward and participate in a community service project on this day.  In 2009, we had over 9,000 4-H members and adults go out and serve - we challenge each of you to get our participation over 15,000!  You can do it!

Resources are available on the one day 4-H website to help groups plan, organize, and implement their community service project.  Each group is ask to start signing their project up on-line so we can be see the great and awesome projects being planned.

Awards will be given to groups throughout Texas who have significant success and accomplishment in their project.  These awards are being generosity sponsored by the current state-wide sponsors of:  Blue Bell Creameries, Dr. Martha Couch, Mr. & Mrs. Preston Sides, and Mr Bill Jerman.

YOU CAN BE PART OF THE LARGEST 4-H COMMUNITY SERVICE IN AMERICA - YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN ONE DAY!

Order your one day 4-H T-Shirts Now!

News from the Texas 4-H Store

 

Show your pride on Saturday, October 9, 2010 in the second edition of the one day 4-H t-shirt.  Each shirt is only $5.75 per shirt and can be ordered up until September 19, 2010 for guaranteed delivery by the 9th.  Shirts can be ordered on-line through the Texas 4-H Store.

 

2011 Texas 4-H Roundup Logo and Theme Contest - DEADLINE EXTENDED Sept 13th

The Texas 4-H Roundup Logo and Theme Contest is Back!!!

It seems like the 2010 Texas 4-H Roundup just ended, and Summer just began, but moving into August planning is already underway to make the 2011 Texas 4-H Roundup even bigger and better. The first step in making the 2011 Texas 4-H Roundup a memorable one is getting the logo and theme that will help provide the groundwork for the rest of the year. Last year's theme, "The Road Goes on Forever and 4-H Never Ends" help set the stage for the 2010 Roundup and truly provide a road of new opportunities that youth explored. It is the hopes of Texas 4-H faculty and staff that this year will be no different. We highly encourage individuals, groups, and even counties to take advantage of this opportunity to put their mark on the 2011 Texas 4-H Roundup. Below are a few items that are important if you are interested in submitting an entry.

- Deadline for all entries are due September 13, 2010
- Entries may be hand drawn or submitted in a .jpg format
- More information may be found at the following website http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/library/files/youth_roundup_logo.pdf

For more information, please contact Kyle Merten at kjmerten@ag.tamu.edu
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