TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME

TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME ~ The Texas 4-H Foundation has two (2) exciting opportunities for county/4-H clubs to earn funds for the 2011-2012 Texas 4-H year. What better combination than "America's favorite pass-time" and "Texas 4-H" ....

We are excited to announce the 2nd Annual "Green Out" 4-H Event to kick-off the 2011-12 Texas 4-H year! To view a SPECIAL invite from Nolan Ryan, visit our website http://texas4hfoundation.org/texas-4-h-alliances/rangers-baseball-green-out-4-h-event/

The discounted tickets are on sale now for the 2011 Texas 4-H “GREEN OUT” event to kick off the 2011-12 4-H year with Major League Baseball’s club the Texas Rangers vs. Los Angeles Angels on August 27, 2011, at the Ballpark in Arlington. There is a Pre-Game Concert by MercyMe, presented by I Am Second. This will be a fun-filled day of family, friends, and fellowship for all to enjoy.

Every ticket holder will receive a FREE one-of-a-kind GREEN OUT t-shirt sponsored by the Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Company which will include the Rangers, 4-H, and Texas Farm Bureau Insurance logos. To receive your green out t-shirts, tickets must be purchased by Friday, August 12, 2010. Tickets can be still purchased after this Friday, we just will not be able to guarantee a t-shirt. 

Every County and 4-H club has the opportunity to sell GREEN OUT tickets as a fundraiser for their County 4-H program. Prizes will be awarded for the member, club or county 4-H that sales the most tickets. The Texas Rangers organization has been gracious enough to not only give us a discounted ticket rate, but are giving $3.00* for every ticket purchased to the County 4-H program that sells tickets. The more tickets you sell, the more money you can make for your County 4-H! Attached you will find the order form or you can download more information at the website.

http://texas4hfoundation.org/texas-4-h-alliances/rangers-baseball-green-out-4-h-event/

County Liner 4-H'ers volunteer at the Adopt A Pet in Terrell

Members of the County Liners 4H Club volunteered August 6th to help run an Adopt-A-Pet at Terrell Tractor Supply Company. Along with walking the dogs and making sure they had water, the kids also sold hotdogs, cold water, crape myrtle trees, and raffled off a gift card that Tractor Supply generously donated to them. It was a hot day, but they had a great turn out. Many thanks to Connor & Alicia Baird, Isaac & Reuben Stecher, Mackenzie & Hayden Craft and Clark Eastridge. A big thank you to Tractor Supply--especially Danielle-- for all their hard work in helping put this adventure together.

4-H Club Officer’s Training

   On August 20th, at the Dallas Audubon they will be hosting the Annual County Officer Training with Rockwall, and Dallas Counties.  This will be a great opportunity for Club Officer's to either get a brush up for their duties as a club officer or learn from scratch.  It is also a great opportunity to make friends from neighboring counties that you will see at the district leadership events.
   The day will start with the County Council Officers Checking In first to help get the day ready and the club officers coming in for registration at 10:15 in the morning.

Morning session from 8:30 to 11:00 am for County Council Officer Teams only

8:30 am   Registration (County Council Teams)

8:45 am   Welcome/Icebreakers/Overview for the training

9:00 am   Team-building Games (teaching to council officers, so they can lead the games later)

10:15 am County Council Officer Break Out Session (planning for the year, expectations of officers)

                (ends at 11:15)

11:00 am Registration (Club Officer Teams)

11:15 am (Set-up for First Session)

11:30 am First Session (President, All Vice Presidents, Secretary) / 4-Hers not in these roles will be doing team building games with County Council Officers leading the games

12:30 pm Lunch

1:00 pm  Second Session (Reporter, Treasurer, Council Delegate) / 4-Hers not in these roles will be doing team building games with County Council Officers leading the games

2:00 pm Club Break Out Session (time for individual clubs to plan events

3:00 pm Closing Thoughts/ Sharing Session

4:00 pm  Home Sweet Home

Notes:

$5 per person (adult/youth)

Breaks will be “re-fueling on the go”, meaning no set breaks, but we will have snacks for the council teams in the morning and everyone in the afternoon.

Directions to Dallas Audubon: 

Take I 30/80 or Hwy 175 to Dallas.  You will need to exit at the Buckner Blvd and turn left onto Great Trinity Forest Way.  The Dallas Audubon is down about 3 miles on the left hand side of the road.  Follow the signs around to the Center.

Bring with You: 

Water Bottle

Good Walking shoes

You can wear 4-H Length shorts and a t-shirt (no tanks or string tops)

Pencils

Your Kaufman County 4-H String Back Pack (If you do not have one you will receive one at the Training)

I will have for you:

Kaufman County 4-H Calendar and Goodies since you are a Club Officer

If you have any questions please call the extension office (972) 932-9069

 

Re-enrollment in 4-H begins August 1st

    All members must re-enroll in 4-H every year. Enrollment will be on line via the 4-H Connect program. If you already have a profile set up on 4-H Connect, all you need to do is update your profile information and select you want to enroll for the new 2011-2012 4-H year. However, this year there is a new state participation fee, which 4-H Connect will ask you how you would like to pay the $20 fee. Please select credit card or e-check.  Adult leaders and Clovers Kids are not required to pay the $20 fee.
    It is very important you re-enroll as soon as possible to keep updated on upcoming 4-H events. On July 31st, the 4-H Connect program will archieve everyone now currently enrolled. Our office has been emailing you with information on upcoming 4-H events, however, after July 31st, we will no longer have your email information until you re-enroll. If you will be participating in events that will occur in August, September or  October, please re-enroll as soon as possible to allow us to keep you updated with due dates and events.  This includes entering into Fall Livestock Shows.
    Also, due to the great support of community businesses and fund-raising from the youth council we will be able to this year for the youth that completed project record books and turned them into the county on time to receive $10.00 towards their Annual Enrollment Fee.  For the those that qualified for District Competition they will receive an additional $10.00 !!!  For the kiddos that did Member Achievement Plan (MAP) they will receive $5.00. If you are one of these kiddos you will receive a certificate the night of the banquet.  More information will come on how you will re-enroll that night.

VERY COOL 4-H Photography Workshop

Find out how to make the most of your 4-H Photography project during this 5 workshop series! 4-H’ers, leaders, and volunteers will learn from the pros. All participants must be 11 years old and older and have their own camera to bring to the workshops. All workshops will run from 9 a.m to 3 p.m with lunch included.
5 Workshop Package- $125 includes lunch and educational booklet from all workshops
Individual Workshop- $30 includes lunch and educational materials from individual workshop
Please contact Amy Dromgoole at 979-458-4227 or amy.dromgoole@tamu.edu for more information.

Cowboy Stadium Tour - Exclusive Offer for Texas 4-H'ers

On Saturday, August 27th the Cowboys Stadium will be open for a VIP tours for Texas 4-H members.  This is a great opportunity for you!! The Dallas Cowboys and the Cowboys Stadium have a special tour opportunity for Texas 4-H members. Located at the Cowboys Stadium is offering a $20.00 VIP Guided Tour of the facilities. See the luxury boxes, press area, players and cheerleaders locker rooms, and have access to the field to run, pass footballs, and kick field goals! Click here for all the details.

QR Codes - Kaufman County 4-H Has One!!!

Have you ever noticed the "black and white boxes" that have started to show up at restaurants, printed materials, and ads? Well it is the new technology called a QR or "Quick Response" code, also known as a 2D Barcode. It gives users information on their smart phones or cell phones in a instant.

To use this this neat technology you will need to have the "App" on your smart phone that will take a photo, then analyze or "scans" the barcode to redirect you to the web address.

So .... soon you will see new brochures and flyers exhibiting this new fun advertising.

Congratulations to the Record Books at District!!!

Congrats to the leaders and parents that helped the 4-H'ers have such a great showing at the district IV Record Book Judging!!

Memory Books
Ricky Gravelle - Third Place
Hannah Tackette - 2nd place
Andrew - 1st place

Junior Record Books
Rueben Stecher - 1st - Poultry
Isaac Stecher - 1st - Horticulture
Kevin Pagel - 3rd - Rabbit
Alicia Baird - 2nd - Clothing and Textiles

Intermediate Record Books
Hannah Celella - 2nd - Photography
Kaitlyn Pagel - 2nd - Rabbit
Quentin Gravelle - 4th - Poultry
Abby Celella - 2nd - Horse
MacKenzie Craft - 1st -
Sean Baird - 2nd - Theater

Senior Record Books
Megan Gravelle - 3rd - Horse
Clark Eastridge - 1st - Science and Technology
Cassie Boyd - 3rd - Vet Science
Kelvin Word - 1st - Sheep
Catlyn Wold - 3rd - Photography

Congratulations and Good Luck to Clark Eastridge and Kelvin Word with their State Bound Books!!! And congratulations to all of the Kaufman County 4-H'ers with their hard work.

NEW!!! Livestock Judging Resource

DV Auction and Texas A&M Livestock Judging Team are pleased to announce the launch of www.elitelivestockjudging.com, a web-based livestock judging website that educates youth about the principles of livestock judging through the interactive use of web-based videos.

This website features multiple-angle videos of individual animals in each class, class placings links, and in-depth reasons videos courtesy of the Texas A&M Livestock Judging Team. Individuals, 4-H clubs and FFA chapters can purchase a year-long subscription to the service, to which video content is updated frequently. “This innovative service allows youth across the world to participate in livestock judging in a convenient and cost-effective manner. With the dramatic increase in web-based technology acceptance in agriculture, we are excited to do our part in assisting in the education of future livestock producers through this exciting avenue” reports Brett Spader, Director of Marketing and Special Services for DV Auction. DV Auction teamed up with 11-time National Champion Collegiate Livestock Judging Team Texas A&M to provide direction on the project.

This service is a valuable resource for youth in the livestock industry, according to Texas A&M Livestock Judging Team coach Jake Franke “In today’s competitive livestock judging world, every learning opportunity must be utilized to ensure success. www.elitelivestockjudging.com creates a valuable resource to learn from some of the best in the business.”

To find out more, please log in to www.elitelivestockjudging.com or contact Brett Spader at brett@dvauction.com or (785) 633-5512.

Starting the New Year!! Club Manager/Project Leader Meeting

Two trainings will be offered for the club managers and project leaders for Kaufman County. They will be August 4th and 16th starting at 6:30 pm in the Extension Office meeting room. Topics on new programs and opportunities to managing the club and project meetings will be covered.

If you are interested in becoming a club manager and starting a new club in Kaufman County come to see what you can do to be involved in this fun and great organization.

For more information please call the extension office (972) 932-9069.

Changes to the State 4-H Horse Show

IMPORTANT CHANGES - 2011 STATE 4-H HORSE SHOW

This year, horses of exhibitors will be assigned to a specific stall at the State 4-H Horse Show at the Taylor County Expo Center in Abilene, TX. Tack stalls paid for by exhibitors will also have an assignment, and every effort will be made to locate the tack stall as near to the exhibitor's horse stall(s) as possible.

IMPORTANT NOTIFICATIONS - 2011 STATE 4-H HORSE SHOW

It is important to remember that members of the State 4-H Horse Show management team and employees of the Taylor County Expo Center are not responsible for theft. Special care should be taken by the exhibitor to look after their equipment and belongings. It will be up to the exhibitor to provide chains and locks on any tack and/or tack stall.

For more information, please contact Teri Antilley at 979/845-1562

Clothing Project slumber party CANCELED

Due to low registrations for the sleep over it has been canceled till August. If you have any questions please Carrie Sharp at cl-sharp@tamu.edu

Statewide Photography Workshop Deadline Coming Soon!

Spend a couple extra days after Texas 4-H Roundup and join us for the 4-H Statewide Photography Workshop! The Statewide Photography Workshop will be held June 17th and 18th at the Bell County Expo in Belton, TX. Registration deadline is June 6, 2011 so sign up quick!
Learn new and basic photography techniques at the Statewide Photography Workshop! The second day will be a field trip to the antique tractor fairgrounds where we will take pictures of tractors, old buildings, people in costume, and horses.

Workshop will be held June 17-18, 2011, June 17th: 8:45am- 4:00pm (Check in: 8:00-8:45am) and June 18th: 8:30am- 12:00pm (Check in: 8:00-8:30am). Registration is $20 for youth and adults, with the entry deadline as June 6, 2011. For more information, schedule, and a list of presenters visit the Bell County AgriLife Extension 4-H Photography website or download the information flyer.

Important Dates for the Summer Months

Here are some up coming dates to keep you on track for the summer months.

June

Club Meetings check with the club manager to make for sure your club is meeting through the summer months

8-Deadline Registration for ULTRA Leadership Camp

10-Deadline for County Recordbooks and Award Apps

10-Clothing and Textile Sleepover – Extension Office 6 pm – 7 AM

11-County Record Book Judging – 9 AM

11-WOW Trip Meeting – 2 PM

13-17 - State 4-H Roundup - College Station

16-Major Steer Validation at Casey Risingers – 6 PM.

21-22 - District IV 4-H Horse Show

28-30 - District IV ULTRA Leadership Camp

July

7-District IV 4-H Record Book Judging, need volunteers to help – Dallas Extension Center

11-13-Multi County Camp - Lone Star Texas

23-30 – State 4-H Horse Show

August

***ORDER TAGS FOR SPRING MAJORS FOR MARKET LAMBS AND GOATS***

***ORDER TAGS FOR SPRING MAJORS FOR MARKET SWINE

1 – County Council Meeting – Extension Office –

8 – West Texas Fair & Rodeo entry deadline to extension office

18 – State Fair of Texas entry deadline to extension office

20 – County Club Officer Training – place TBA

26 – East Texas Fair and Rodeo entry Deadline to extension office

September

??-Decide on County Council meeting due to Labor Day weekend.

9 – Heart O Texas Fair & Rodeo entry deadline to extension office

17 – District Council Meeting

West Texas Fair and Rodeo – September 9-17, 2011

State Fair of Texas – September 30-October 23, 2011

East Texas State Fair – September 22-October 1, 2011

Heart O Texas Fair – October 7-15, 2011

Kaufman County 4-H Meeting - DATE CHANGE!!

The Kaufman County 4-H Youth Council meeting will be Friday, June 3rd at 6:30 pm.  We will be having the Officer elections and followed by a cookout.

Items from the last Youth Council Meeting mentioned was -
~ULTRA Leadership camp from Kelvin Word deadline to register is June 8th,
~next meeting we will be setting the date for the Annual Banquet and setting a committee to help organize and plan the event,
~County Record Books are due June 10th with the judging taking place on June 11th
~Congrats to the Kaufman County 4-H'ers making it to State 4-H Roundup.
~Major Steer Validation is on June 16th at the Risinger Vet Clinic at 6 pm.  Please do not arrive any earlier.


Council members nominated for office are -
President - Catlyn Wold, Nathan Stibbons, and Jacob Long
Vice President - Cassie Boyd and Kaitlyn Pagel
Secretary - Meagan Gravelle and Michelle Braddock
Treasurer - Hannah Lee and MacKenzie Craft
Reporter - Isaac Stecher
Recreation Officer and District Delegates will be voted on when above seats are filled.

Ag and Natural Resource Task Prepares for 2011

The Kaufman County 4-H Ag and Natural Resource Task Force (new name for committee : ) ) met on May 19th to discuss preparing the youth of Kaufman County for the challenges in the Livestock and Natural Resource Projects.

From the meeting 3 objectives will be focused on for the 2011-2012 4-H Year.  And we will be needing some help to make them happen!!

1. Creating better educational learning points (aides) for 1st to 3rd year families in the livestock projects.  How can we better serve them to help them get through their first project experience (ie - raising and caring for, entry and at the show...)
2.  Researching the Needs and Wants lists for each major project area.  (Dog Project - Location for summer meetings, Dairy Goats/Market Goats - first owners seminar, Beef project - opportunities past county show, etc)
3. Setting up a "Before the County Fair" experience for all of the youth from across the county to get to know each other and to build camaraderie.

The next meeting of the Ag and Natural Resource Task Force is in July.  If you would like to be a part of this
committee please contact the 4-H Office.

Quality County Verification for Major Stock Show Livestock Participants

Quality Counts Verification is now active and ready to be used!  Moving forward into the 2011-2012 Major Show Season, Quality Counts Verification will be a part of the process for entry in all major shows.  This means youth exhibitors will need to demonstrate their knowledge of the Six Pillars of Character and the Eight Core Concepts presented in the Quality Counts Curriculum. To do this, they will need to pass an online test on the website ( http://qualitycounts.tamu.edu/ ) and acquire a Quality Counts Verification number.

Things you need to know about Verification:
* 2011 - State Fair of Texas will implement Quality Counts Verification on a voluntary basis.
* 2012 - All Major Livestock Shows in Texas will require Quality Counts Verification at the time of entry - This means youth will need to be verified prior to entry in the fall of 2011.
* A Verification number is obtained by answering 80% of the questions correctly on an online test.

The Quality Counts website ( http://qualitycounts.tamu.edu/ ) will serve as your portal to the online test, Verification Records, and educational resources related to Quality Counts.  From this website, you can access all of the Quality Counts curriculum and various Powerpoint presentations for use.  Leaders can use these to educate themselves prior to teaching the curriculum.  It can then be used with livestock exhibitors and local support groups as well as other o organizations.

CANCELLED - Silver Spurs Open Youth Horse Show

SHOW POSTPONED - Due to recent events in the horse industry with the growing speculation of the Equine EHV-1 virus the Silver Spurs Open Youth Horse Show that was scheduled for this weekend is being rescheduled for October. 
As per suggestions from the Texas Animal Health Commission, "Although mandatory cancellation of future events is not anticipated, the TAHC suggests that horse owners consider the risk of participating in upcoming events scheduled for this weekend and/or co-mingling their horses with other horses and equipment (trailers) of unknown history. Because the incubation period is usually about 4-6 days or less, even a one week voluntary stop movement may be enough to nip the cycle of transmission between horses before it grows in scope. Horse owners should contact event organizers in advance to ensure that scheduled events have not been cancelled."  If you have any questions please contact the Kaufman County Extension Office call 972-932-9069.

2011 Aggie Land Goat and Lamb Camps - SPOTS FILL UP FAST!!!

What: Aggieland™ Lamb & Goat Camps - a 3-day program dedicated to teaching parents and students the fundamentals of feeding, nutrition, health, facilities, selection, and showmanship.

View ALGC Questions and Answers

When: Lamb Camp - July 15-17, 2011; Goat Camp - July 22-24, 2011

Where: College Station, TX - Pearce Pavilion

Cost: $120 per camper and $60 per adult

Hotel Information: 
Campers and adults do not have to stay at this hotel, but we recommend you try. When making reservations be sure to mention you are with the camp. This is the only way to get the price.
    Lamb Camp - July 15-17, 2011
    LaQuinta Inn & Suites 607 Texas Avenue
    College Station, TX 77840
    1-866-527-1498
    Confirmation # - 0539GRPDPK
    Make Reservation by - June 24, 2011
    *Ask for Texas 4-H/FFA Discount for additional 15 % off
    Goat Camp - July 22-24, 2011
    LaQuinta Inn & Suites
    607 Texas Avenue
    College Station, TX 77840
    1-866-527-1498
    Confirmation # - 0539GRTCIW
    Make Reservation by - July 7, 2011
    *Ask for Texas 4-H/FFA Discount for additional 15 % off
Who: Anyone ages eight years-old and older
Registration: Registration now open.
Youth and adults - Click here to register online for Lamb Camp and Goat Camp.
Please print and complete the Recognition and Assumption of Risk Agreement and Physician Release Form found below. The form may be faxed in prior to camp at 979-458-3294 or you may bring it with you to camp.

• Goat Camp Release Form
• Lamp Camp Release Form

Testimonials:
"I wanted to extend a great thanks on the success that attending lamb camp in July was for my son. His showmanship skills and knowledge of lambs has grown considerably."
-- Chris Stoeltje
"Goat camp is already paying off. Thanks for all the info at camp and we will see you at lamp camp next summer."
-- Stephen, Starla and Kristin Tucker
"Thank you for such a wonderful goat camp. A wonderful experience. Wyatt learned so much and didn't want to leave!"
-- Karen Koch
"Thank you all for a wonderful goat camp. It was a great experience for everybody."
-- Maria Lugo
For more information, please contact: Dr. Shawn Ramsey, Sheep & Goat Camp Program Coordinator
Phone: 979-845-7616
Fax: 979-458-3294
Katie Fritz or Kelsey Willberg at aggielandlambandgoatcamp@gmail.com
Phone: 979-845-7616
Fax: 979-458-3294

East Region 4-H Shooting Sports Coaches Certification

The East Region is hosting a 4-H shooting sports coaches certification training on May 21-22 at the AgriLife Research and Extension Center (17360 Coit Road) in Dallas.   Details about the coaches training and necessary forms can be found in the document linked here ( http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/library/files/youth_ss_workshops_coach_training_information_packet_11.pdf ).  The training is open to all active/YPS cleared 4-H adult volunteers, County Extension Agents, and senior 4-H members (must be accompanied by an adult).

The following certifications will be offered:

Archery

Coordinator

Muzzleloading

Pistol

Rifle

Shotgun

I know that we have many parents and leaders that have been wanting to get the Outdoor Recreation project back up and rolling.  Here is one of the first resources needed.  Certified 4-H Shooting Coaches.  If you are interested in attended the training please contact  the Kaufman County 4-H Extension Agent to start the process of re-organizing the club.

Registration is open on 4-H Connect and will close on May 6.  The cost is $100 per person.  A hotel listing and other meeting details will be posted on the shooting sports website soon.  http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/youth/shootingsports/index.php#Workshops

2011 Texas 4-H Volunteer Conference

Why a Volunteer Conference?    

The opportunities for our youth, our volunteers, and our 4-H Program continue to grow!  With this growth comes the need to prepare and provide our volunteers with the best resources and training possible.  As our 4-H Program continues to expand and become more vital to the youth of Texas, it is imperative that we effectively engage and empower our volunteer network.   
Our volunteers need access to the highest quality educators and resources so they are best equipped to return to their counties and work in partnership with their local County Extension Agents to further develop our youth.  This has never been more important as we consider how to most effectively lead our youth.

Conference Highlights 

The Texas 4-H and Youth Development Program will be sponsoring a state-wide leader training on July 29-31, 2011 in San Antonio to prepare the new generation of 4-H volunteers to lead and instruct our members.  Highlights of the conference will include:

•  High energy, dynamic, and engaging conference addressing the emerging issues of youth development and the Texas 4-H Program.
• A two and half day conference filled with quality educational workshops and general sessions. (Scheduled to start on Friday evening and conclude on Sunday)
• Opening session featuring a dynamic motivational speaker in the field of youth development as well as an update on the state of the Texas 4-H and Youth Development Program. 
• Sessions on Saturday and Sunday focused on needs provided through agent and clientele surveys ensuring our program leaders are receiving the training they want! 
• It’s not a one time thing!  This is on target to become a bi-annual event (off years of Texas 4-H Congress). 
• Conference will include web-based video streaming of some sessions for those that cannot attend in person!  

Conference Schedule

Friday, July 29th  - San Antonio Livestock Show Grounds
5:30 – 6:30 pm	Registration and Social
6:15 pm	Dinner Buffet
7:00 pm	Opening General Session
Saturday, July 30th  - Region 20 Education Service Center
8:30 am – 4:30 pm	Educational Workshops
Sunday, July 31st  - Region 20 Education Service Center
8:30 am – 12:00 pm	Educational Workshops
7:00 pm	Opening General Session
For a more detailed conference schedule, click here.

Registration Information

Volunteers can register for the conference on 4-H CONNECT. Registration will be open until Monday, June 20th. The conference registration fee is $120 per person and includes the educational program, two meals, as well as three refreshment breaks.

 Let's get a crew and go have fun!!!

2011 Texas 4-H Roundup "I Support the Clover" Silent Auction

     The Texas 4-H Youth Development Foundation will be again hosting a multiple day silent auction fundraiser event during the 2011 Texas 4-H Roundup. The 2010 event was a huge success raising just over $14,000. The "I Support the Clover" Silent Auction proceeds will benefit the Texas 4-H Youth and Development Program through Roundup support and state-wide 4-H program support grants.

     The 4-H Foundation would like to encourage the county 4-H programs to become involved in the silent auction this year and has issued a CHALLENGE. The Foundation is challenging each county and/or 4-H club to submit something(s) for the 2nd Annual I Support the Clover Silent Auction. The county/club item that raises the most funds will receive 95% of the total funds raised on that item (this takes into consideration the 5% administrative fee assessed on all donations except scholarships by the Texas 4-H Foundation). The county/club with the 2nd highest selling item will receive 70% of the total funds raised on that item, and the county/club with the 3rd highest selling item will receive 45% of the total funds raised on that item. Items may be submitted either as an overall county submission or 4-H club within a county. This will give an individual club the opportunity to raise funds direct for their club if they so chose. When submitting item(s), please note whether funds are to be for county or 4-H club, should that item raise enough funds that it is awarded one of the top three places.

     You can visit the Texas 4-H Foundation's website http://texas4hfoundation.org/texas-4-h-roundup-silent-auction/to download a donation form and see what items have currently been donated this year. The Foundation noted that items that received the most funds last year including a pheasant hunt, HLSR rodeo suite/ticket package, signed memorabilia, artwork, and jewelry.

Please notify the Foundation office as soon as possible with details regarding the item(s) your county/club will be donating. They will then post the item(s) to their website. This is a multi-day auction. All the county/club donated items will be given equal time during the auction. Items of great value ($250 and up) will be placed on auction multi-days. So keep that in mind when submitting your items. Lower valued items will be on the daily auction.

     You can bring the items with you to Roundup, however, note that the Silent Auction will open Tuesday afternoon in conjunction with the Trade Show, therefore if you will not be here until later in the week, I would recommend shipping your item(s) so you will have ample time on display. Some items may even be placed on auction during the scholarship assembly on Monday.

      If you have any questions, please contact Jana Barrett at 979-845-1213 or jcbarrett@ag.tamu.edu

Multi County 4-H Camp - LIFE...In It to Win It!!

Come join us for 4-H Multi-County Camp.  Life . . . in it to win it! is this year’s theme.  We will be doing team building activities & games.  The youth will also experience some of the 4-H project areas.  Camp will be held at Lakeview Baptist Encampment in Lone Star Texas on July 11-13, 2011.  We have a lot of fun activities and events planned.  A $100.00 (non-refundable) registration fee and your camp forms are due to the ­­­Kaufman County Extension Office by  May 18^th, 2011 . 

Please note – registration is due to the Kaufman  County Extension office.

Again, youth will need to be signed out by an adult – parent, volunteer, agent - - - we don’t want anyone to get left at camp or wonder where & who they left with.  Everyone needs to be picked up by 11am – parents are invited to come to the closing & awards presentation.

2011 Camp Workshops

Shooting Sports – rifle (BB)

Cooking – fun with food

Safety in Action! – basic first aid & safety awareness

Junior Master Gardener – surprise! – The Piney Woods Master Gardeners

ROPES Course – zip line & triangle traverse – trained camp employees

If you have any questions, or would like to know more about the camp or would like the registration forms call the Kaufman County Extension Office for 4-H 972-932-9069.

2011 Junior 4-H Golf Challenge

Texas 4-H is proud to announce the second year of the Texas 4-H Golf Challenge. After a successful pilot year in the North Region (Lubbock), we have decided to expand the event to the South Region as well. This year events will be held in College Station on June 20-21 and in Lubbock July 6th. Registration for the College Station event opened on 4-H Connect April 1st and close June 1st. Registration for the event taking place in Lubbock will open April 10th on 4-H Connect.

This event is for 4-Hers and Non 4-Hers who are considered intermediate and senior aged youth. Intermediates and seniors may be paired together and individuals on teams do not have to be from the same county. In order to participate, teams of three must register. No individuals will be accepted. Also, teams may compete in Lubbock and College Station. Youth are not restricted to their regions.

In the next few weeks a draft manual for the event will be published online. This will serve as a resource for youth as they prepare for the event. Fliers for both events are found on the Texas 4-H Golf Challenge website. http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/youth/golf_challenge/index_youth_golf.php

New!! Fashion Design Camps

Held in North Texas on the beautiful Texas Woman's University Denton campus, the Fashion Design Camp will feature design professors, graduate students, and industry professionals presenting topics that will be fun and educational for the young fashion enthusiast.  Fashion Design Camp is perfect for your teen, preteen, girls and boys! Activities will include:

• Fashion show production
• Jewelry production
• Hat making, model training
• Beginning sewing
• Beginning sketching
• Screen printing
• Denim deconstruction (both groups)
• Draping (older group)

There will also be classes on the basic principles and elements of design, fashion design, fashion shows, modeling, sketching, and color.

For more dates, details, and registration material, visit the following TWU website:  http://www.twu.edu/fashion/fashion-camp.asp

Please share this information with your Clothing & Textiles project members and leaders.

County/ 4-H Club Silent Auction Challenge

The Texas 4-H Youth Development Foundation will be again hosting a multiple day silent auction fundraiser event during the 2011 Texas 4-H Roundup. The 2010 event was a huge success raising just over $14,000. The "I Support the Clover" Silent Auction proceeds will benefit the Texas 4-H Youth and Development Program through Roundup support and state-wide 4-H program support grants.

The next round of program support grant applications are due May 1st and the application can be downloaded at http://texas4hfriends.org/resources/program-support-grants/) through the Texas 4-H Friends & Alumni Association.

The 4-H Foundation would like to encourage the county 4-H programs to become involved in the silent auction this year and has issued a CHALLENGE. The Foundation is challenging each county and/or 4-H club to submit something(s) for the 2nd Annual I Support the Clover Silent Auction. The county/club item that raises the most funds will receive 95% of the total funds raised on that item (this takes into consideration the 5% administrative fee assessed on all donations except scholarships by the Texas 4-H Foundation). The county/club with the 2nd highest selling item will receive 70% of the total funds raised on that item, and the county/club with the 3rd highest selling item will receive 45% of the total funds raised on that item. Items may be submitted either as an overall county submission or 4-H club within a county. This will give an individual club the opportunity to raise funds direct for their club if they so chose. When submitting item(s), please note whether funds are to be for county or 4-H club, should that item raise enough funds that it is awarded one of the top three places.

You can visit the Texas 4-H Foundation's website to download a donation form and see what items have currently been donated this year. The Foundation noted that items that received the most funds last year including a pheasant hunt, HLSR rodeo suite/ticket package, signed memorabilia, artwork, and jewelry.

Please notify the Foundation office as soon as possible with details regarding the item(s) your county/club will be donating. They will then post the item(s) to their website. This is a multi-day auction. All the county/club donated items will be given equal time during the auction. Items of great value ($250 and up) will be placed on auction multi-days. So keep that in mind when submitting your items. Lower valued items will be on the daily auction.

You can bring the items with you to Roundup, however, note that the Silent Auction will open Tuesday afternoon in conjunction with the Trade Show, therefore if you will not be here until later in the week, I would recommend shipping your item(s) so you will have ample time on display. Some items may even be placed on auction during the scholarship assembly on Monday.

If you have any questions, please contact Jana Barrett at 979-845-1213 or jcbarrett@ag.tamu.edu

Dog Project to start again!!! Wednesday the 13th at 6:30 pm

Thanks to Stephanie Bazik, the 4-H Dog Project is ready to start again at the Pet County Spa in Terrell.  Dr. Sanders has welcomed the 4-H Project members to come learn about basic training and Obedience. 

 

Date/Time: Wednesday, 13th at 6:30 pm

What to bring:

good collar that fits your dog

6 foot leather leash

Water for you and your dog

Maybe some snacks 

Bring a friend to introduce to the fun!!!!  You will need to keep your dog on leash at all times while at Pet Country.  This is going to be fun adventure for you and your dog.

4-H Horse Validation Deadline May 1st

May 1 is the deadline for a 4-H‘er to validate a horse to show in the 4-H Horse Shows in Texas. This deadline for 4-Hers to validate a horse, which certifies that the project is owned by the 4-H‘er or their sibling, parent, grandparent or legal guardian. The process validates that the horse is owned and not leased or borrowed. Horses not validated on or before May 1 are ineligible for District and State 4-H Horse Shows. Each 4-H horse project validated by a 4-H‘er must be accompanied by a $10 fee. A form must be filled out by the 4-Her for each horse being validated. 

To get a form please call or email the extension office.

Texas 4-H Golf Challenge

Texas 4-H is proud to announce the second year of the Texas 4-H Golf Challenge. After a successful pilot year in the North Region (Lubbock), we have decided to expand the event to the South Region as well. This year events will be held in College Station on June 20-21 and in Lubbock July 6th. Registration for the College Station event opened on 4-H Connect April 1st and close June 1st. Registration for the event taking place in Lubbock will open April 10th on 4-H Connect.

This event is for 4-Hers and Non 4-Hers who are considered intermediate and senior aged youth. Intermediates and seniors may be paired together and individuals on teams do not have to be from the same county. In order to participate, teams of three must register. No individuals will be accepted. Also, teams may compete in Lubbock and College Station. Youth are not restricted to their regions.

In the next few weeks a draft manual for the event will be published online. This will serve as a resource for youth as they prepare for the event. Fliers for both events are found on the Texas 4-H Golf Challenge website. http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/youth/golf_challenge/index_youth_golf.php

2011 Jr. Fed Beef Career & Leadership Camp

The Texas Cattle Feeders Association, in conjunction with the Texas AgriLife Extension Service and West Texas A&M University, will host the 2011 Junior Fed Beef Career and Leadership Program, or Feedyard Camp as we like to call it, this summer, June 27 - 29 in Canyon. This program will be open to any incoming high school juniors and seniors who have an interest in pursuing a career path in feedyard operations and management and the fed beef industry. The Career and Leadership Program will give students a chance to learn about many areas of feedyard operations and other aspects of the fed cattle industry.

This program will be a great opportunity to bring students in that have the desire and potential to be future feedyard employees and managers and show them the many career opportunities there are in feedyard operations and cattle feeding.

The Junior Fed Beef Career & Leadership Program is being made possible through sponsorships by feedyards in the TCFA area and TCFA’s Allied Industry Sponsor companies.

Participants in the program will only be required to pay for their transportation to and from Canyon.

Interested students must fill out the application and return it to the TCFA office by May 1, 2011. The selection committee will select 15 - 20 students to participate in the program and selected students will be notified by May 15.

Please see the enclosed informational brochure for more information and a program outline. You can also log on to www.tcfa.org/jfbc/FeedyardCamp for full program information and an application to participate in the program. Please make this information available to your students who might have an interest in the program.