Greener Pastures

Sepember 2008 County Council Report

2008-09-24T08:48:00.001-04:00

By Kay H.

Greetings, 4-H members! Our last County Council meeting was held on September 16th, 2008 at the county extension office. A big welcome goes out to our new 4-H clubs, including the Boys and Girls Club and the Hawthorne Club. Call the Alachua County Extension Office at (352)-955-2402 if you are interested in finding out more, or joining one of these clubs. In the planning stage is a Shooting Sports Club. More information on this will be forthcoming closer to the opening of the club.

National 4-H Week is Oct, 5- 11th. Proclamations have been issued at both the City Commission and County Commission meetings. You can help promote 4-H at the annual Literacy Festival on October 4th. Feel free to attend sporting your 4-H T-Shirts and share your wonderful 4-H experiences with anyone who asks!

4-H's float for the UF Homecoming parade has been approved. The theme is "Road to the Swamp", and any help in building the float will be appreciated. There is a Homecoming Float Committee if you would like to get more involved in this project.

An upcoming event that will be a great deal of fun is the Holiday Crafts Workshop. This will be held on November 15th from 9 am - 1 pm at the county extension office. All sorts of fun projects will be available for participants to complete and take home. These make great decorations or gifts! More details and information on cost will be forthcoming.

I hope to see you at these fun 4-H functions! Our next County Council meeting will be October 21, 2008, at 6:30pm, at the county extension office.

Homecoming Parade Meeting

2008-09-08T18:46:00.009-04:00

There will be a Homecoming Parade Committee meeting this Thursday, September 11th, at 7:00pm. We already have the basic design of the float, but we need to plan out the details. Please contact the Extension Office for the meeting location and further info.

August 2008 County Council Meeting Report

2008-09-03T11:28:00.014-04:00

By Kay H.

Greetings 4-H Members!

What a busy summer 4-H has had! Several exciting state-level events took place, the first of which was 4-H Legislature. Youth were able to learn all about how our government works by going to Tallahassee and spending the week performing mock legislature. The next event was the Camp Ocala. This was a week-long camp where senior 4-H youth could be counselors and junior and intermediate youth could be camp participants. It was a fun week full of interesting activities! Finally, there was 4-H Congress. This was a state competition, where senior level 4-H youth who had succeeded at county and district levels could compete with each other and spend a week on UF campus taking workshops. The Shooting Sports camp, as well as our summer day camps, had a good turnout and offered lots of fun activities.

Our first County Council meeting of the new 4-H year was held on August 26th. Several upcoming events were discussed. The next District V council meeting will be held on September 23rd. Our district delegates this year are Mary B., Kay H., Jeffrey K., and Amanda M.. Our alternates are Becky B. and Tori B.

Coming up is the Alachua County Public Safety/4-H ATV Safety Education Workshop. This will be held at Mebane Middle School on September 13th from 9:00am to 3:30pm. The workshop is for ages 8-16, and will teach youth how to be safe while handling ATVs.

Also discussed was the Alachua County Fair. Several 4-H adults have volunteered to spearhead a committee for the 4--H division at the fair. Help is always appreciated so if interested in being involved with this committee, please contact Mrs. Hinson or Mrs. Banner for more information.

Our County Council officers also gave descriptions or their committees. They are as follows:

The Awards committee is in charge of 4-H Awards Program and the annual Volunteer Dinner. Chairperson: Amber Y., Vice President.

The Funding committee is in charge of fundraising and financial management. Chairperson: Tiffany B., Treasurer.

The Publicity and Recruitment committee is in charge of monthly reports on County Council meetings and 4-H promotion. Chairpersons: Kay H. and Jeffrey K., Reporters.

The Program and Service committee is in charge of community service leadership. Chairperson: Tori B., Secretary.

If you are interested in being involved with any of the committees listed above, please get in touch with the chairpersons mentioned.

This year, 4-H once again plans to have a float in the Homecoming Parade. The float committee meeting will be September 11th. Contact Mary B. for more information if you are interested in participating.

National 4-H Week Proclamation Day for the city of Gainesville is scheduled for September 18th, 2008, and the Alachua County 4-H Proclamation is scheduled for September 23rd, 2008. We encourage you to attend the reading of these proclamations at the City and County Commission meetings.

4-H would also like to recognize the hard work that Mr. Ernie Terry has put forth as our County Extension 4-H Agent, as he is leaving the program. Thank you for all that you have done, and we wish you well in your future endeavors!

Our next County Council meeting will be on September 16th at 6:30pm at the Alachua County Extension Office. We have a lot to look forward to during this new 4-H year. I hope to see you all at some of these exciting upcoming events!

ATV Safety Workshop Sept. 13th 2008

2008-09-02T13:16:00.006-04:00

Alachua County
Public Safety / 4-H
ATV Safety Education
Workshops
For youth ages 8-16

Learn atv safety knowledge and skills in a fun, safe, fast paced classroom atmosphere!

Mebane Middle School
Sept. 13, 2008
9:00 am-3:30 pm

To register call 352-384-3106
or email lsw@alachuacounty.us

There is no ATV riding in these workshops. This is not the state required certification
course for riding on public lands. The same safety information is presented in hands-on, dynamic activities without the actual ATV riding. This workshop is a good prep for the ASI ATV Ridercourse.

Cost is $5.00 Free for 4-H and FFA members.
Bring a lunch, snacks will be provided.

For information on the state required certification course for ATV riding please contact the ATV Safety Institute at 800-887-2887 or at www.atvsafety.org
For persons requiring special accommodations to 4-H activities contact (352)955-2402 or TDD/TYY (352)955-2406. Please call at least five working days prior to the program so that proper consideration may be given to the request. Upon request, for persons with print-related disabilities, this information is available in alternate formats. 4-H is for youth ages 5-18. Membership is open to all youth regardless of race, creed, color, sex, national origin, handicap or geographic location within Alachua County.

4-H Horse Project Open House

2008-08-20T13:33:00.006-04:00

Horse Project Open House
Saturday,
Sept. 20th
10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Everything the horse lover
needs to know about 4-H

UF Horse Teaching Unit
1934 SW 63rd Ave.
Gainesville

• Horse Show Class Demonstrations
• Horse Judging, Hippology & Quiz Bowl
•“Ask The Vet” with Springhill Equine Veterinary
•Demonstrations by Local Equine Professionals
•County Extension Agent & 4-H Horse Project Clubs
• Silent Auction (REALLY GREAT STUFF!)
• Used Tack Sale – rent space for just $10
• Coffee & Donuts, Hot Dogs & Burgers
• Games & Crafts for Kids
• Door Prizes
Everything the horse lover
needs to know about 4-H!
Something for Everyone –
All Ages & Experience Levels Welcome!
386-454-2794 or 386-454-5092/undrwdhill@gmail.com or sjs2mes@yahoo.com

8/19/08 County Council Meeting Cancelled

2008-08-19T16:59:00.003-04:00

The County Council meeting scheduled for tonight has been cancelled due to the weather.

Bradford County 4H Shooting Sports Club FITA Archery Competition

2008-07-21T09:40:00.007-04:00

Bradford County 4H Shooting Sports Club will host a FITA Archery Competition on August 30, 2008 at Northside Baptist Church in Starke, FL starting at 9:00AM. Cost is $15.00 per shooter. This tournament is open to all 4H members in good standing. Practice range will open at 8:00AM.

EQUIPMENT STANDARD:

PERMITTED
NOT PERMITTED
RECURVE
One adjustable sight pin or multiple hunting style sight pins may be used; clicker and kisser buttons permitted; Participants may have as many sight pins as deemed necessary; Torque compensators are permitted.

String peeps and mechanical release aids.
COMPOUND (freestyle)
Release aids, String peeps, optical sights, spirit levels;
60 lb. maximum draw weight.

Overdraws may not place the arrow rest further than 6 cm from the pivot point of the bow.

ARROWS
Must meet AMO minimum weight standard; 6 grains arrow weight per pound bow peak draw weight or IBO minimum weight standard; 5 grains

No arrows larger than 23/64ths in diameter are permitted.

Archery Recurve – sight pins – One adjustable sight pin or multiple hunting style sight pins permittable. Participant may have as many sight pins as deemed necessary.

COURSE OF FIRE
Seniors: 3 ends of 6 arrows each from 60 and 50 meters;
6 ends of 3 arrows each from 40 and 30 meters;

Intermediates: 3 ends of 6 arrows each from 50 and 40 meters;
6 ends of 3 arrows each from 30 and 20 meters;

Juniors: 3 ends of 6 arrows each from 40 and 30 meters;
6 ends of 3 arrows each from 20 and 10 meters;

TIME LIMIT
4 minutes per 6 arrow end and 2.5 minutes per 3 arrow end
SCORING
10-1 from the center outward, compound teams will score inner 10’s. Tie breaks will follow the NGB Rules.
NGB RULES
USA Archery/FITA
INFORMATION
http://www.archeryworldcup.org/UserFiles/Document/FITA%20website/05%20Rules/01%20C&R%20Book/2008RulesENG_Book2.pdf

APPLICATION FOR AUGUST 30, 2008 FITA TOURNAMENT

Name: _____________________________________ DOB: _________________

Address: ___________________________ City/State/Zip: ______________________

Phone: ___________________________

Parent or Guardian Name: ___________________________

Division: Senior Intermediate Junior

4H Club Name: ________________________________________

4H Agent: _____________________ Phone #: ______________

Bow: (please circle) Compound – Sighted Recurve - Sighted Longbow - No sight - No sight

Please make check or money order payable to: Bradford County 4H. $15 per shooter.
Mail checks with application to:
Bradford County Extension Office
2266 N. Temple Avenue
Starke, FL 32091-1612

Deadline for entry is Wednesday, August 20, 2008.

The tournament will be held at Northside Baptist Church, which is located on the corner of CR 225 & SR 16 in Starke, Florida. Start time is 9:00AM. Practice range will be open at 8:00AM.

Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase.

Any questions please call Barbara Martin at (352) 258-2901 or the Bradford County 4H Office at (904) 966-6224. You can also e-mail questions to martigolf@bellsouth.net.

ATV SAFETY EDUCATION WORKSHOP

2008-06-24T14:00:00.003-04:00

Alachua County Public Safety / 4-H
ATV Safety Education Workshop
For youth ages 8-16

LEARN ATV
SAFETY KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
IN A
FUN, SAFE, FAST PACED
CLASSROOM ATMOSPHERE
There is no ATV riding in this workshop

July 18,2008

At Christian Life Fellowship Church
19817 W Newberry Road
Newberry

FREE PARENTS’ ORIENTATION 9:00-9:45 AM
YOUTH CLASSES 9:00-4:00 PM
Youth supervision is possible 8-9 am and from 4-5 pm with advance notice.

To Register call 352-384-3106 or email lsw@alachuacounty.us

Registration Fee: $ 5.00 payable at the workshop
Make checks out to Alachua County 4H

Bring a lunch, drinks and snacks will be provided.

For persons requiring special accommodations to 4-H activities contact Ernie Terry at (352)955-2402 or TDD/TYY (352)955-2406. Please call at least five working days prior to the program so that proper consideration may be given to the request. Upon request, for persons with print-related disabilities, this information is available in alternate formats. 4-H is for youth ages 5-18. Membership is open to all youth regardless of race, creed, color, sex, national origin, handicap or geographic location within Alachua County.

Clover Voice

2008-06-04T10:18:00.002-04:00

The Summer issue of Clover Voice has been released.

Some of the articles in this edition include
-the remarkable triumph of Halley Addison,
-a Clover Voice interview with 4-H alumni Hunter Williams and
-Dr. Norman addresses 4-H as a solution for a qualified workforce.

I encourage you to share Clover Voice with 4-H supporters and prospective partners within your community. Please provide feedback and comments regarding Clover Voice to Lynnelle Mays at lmmays@ufl.edu.

New Club Leader Trainings

2008-06-04T09:57:00.000-04:00

Dear 4-H Family:

I have scheduled a three part series of new club Organizational Leader Training for 3 new and one re-organizing club. I thought I would let others know about it as well in case there are others in our current program who may want to step up to assist their current club leader or even venture out to start a new club. Please contact me as soon as possible if someone else is interested in participating.

Where: This new leader training series will be held at Rotary Southeast Boys and Girls Club, located at 1100 SE 17th Drive. Gainesville, 32641. Map link .

When:
Thursday June 5th, 5 PM - 6:30 PM
Thursday June 19th, 5 PM - 6:30 PM
Thursday July 3rd, 5 PM - 6:30 PM

Keep Alachua County Beautiful - Adopt-a-Street

2008-06-04T09:53:00.001-04:00

Greetings from Keep Alachua County Beautiful (KACB),

With the closure of the 15th Annual Great American Cleanup, KACB witnessed a great turnout of environmentally concerned Alachua County residents.

At KACB we would like to provide local businesses, volunteers and residents with the opportunity to continue improving the local environment.

Adopt-A-Street is a great way for local organizations to assist in the care of our environment. This program was formed to help address the problem of roadside litter in our environment.

If you would like to get involved with Adopt -A-Street, or have any questions or concerns about the program, please contact Keep Alachua County Beautiful at 352-371-9444 or e-mail stacie.kacb@gmail.com. Please ask for Stacie Moss.

Free Gym Memberships for Teens

2008-05-27T10:09:00.001-04:00

From June 15 to August 15, Alachua County 13- to 17-year-olds can receive a free summer membership to Gainesville Health & Fitness Centers as part of the gym's efforts to combat obesity - and now to help offset economic woes facing families. The students can use any of GHFC's three locations for workouts, group fitness, basketball, swimming, etc. from June 15 to August 15.
Gainesville Health & Fitness Centers
http://www.ghfc.com/
http://alachuacounty.us/assets/uploads/images/wellness/Free_Teen_Memberships.pdf

ATV workshop curriculum training

2008-05-19T09:47:00.001-04:00

Hello all,

I am looking at June 6th, from 9 to around 3, for a curriculum training workshop for those who are interested in leading activities for the youth ATV workshops to be scheduled during the rest of the year. We have the conference room at the Cooperative Extension Office reserved. We will look at the overall curriculum, do some of the activities, look at some workshop agenda formats, choose which activities we think are the best to use, and schedule some dates for the youth workshops. We’ll also discuss the possibility of offering the ASI ATV Ridercourses locally.

The 4-H ATV Safety Education curriculum does not include actual ATV riding. The activities are hands-on, interactive, and of a pre-riding skills development sort. They cover safety rules of gear use, riding the right size ATV for your age, environmental respect issues, and much more.

The workshops offered for youth will be from 4-6 hours long, depending on type and location and size of the group. My hope was to have enough people willing to teach activities, so that the same people don’t have to come to every workshop, but can pick and choose which ones fit in their schedule best. Teens are encouraged to assist adults in the teaching of the activities. Positive role models are important for younger youth to “buy” into the safety thing, and they usually think older youth are awesome! (Adults….well okay sometimes. Ha)

There will be a 45 minute parent presentation at the beginning of each workshop, (while the youth start their activities), reaching the parents is important also. They can have a lot of influence in what their children do at home.

Please let me know if you are interested and able to attend this workshop. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

Lorraine S. Williams

2008 SHOOTING SPORTS/SPORT FISHING NATURAL RESOURCES CAMP

2008-05-14T14:48:00.002-04:00

July 21-25, 2008

Hunting basics Marksmanship

Angling skills Campfire

Outdoor Ethics Angler Ethics

Wildlife Identification Wildlife Management

Fish Identification Fisheries Management

Aquatic Ecology Canoeing

Natural Resources Archery, hunting, rifle, shotgun

Hiking Fishing

Swimming Tackle Crafting

Outdoors Cooking Skills

Registration deadline is Wednesday, July 2, so reserve your spot by requesting and filling out the forms today! CALL THE EXTENSION OFFICE or email Mr. Terry eterry@ufl.edu. Hope to see you at camp.

Please note that some activities may be dropped and others added depending on the availability of volunteers and camp staff

4-H Centennial Ice Cream is now here!

2008-05-07T16:31:00.003-04:00

Blue Bell ice cream has released a new flavor in celebration of 4-H's Centennial! Look for this exciting new in grocery stores near you. You can also purchase it online. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to National 4-H.

Southern Region Volunteer Leader Forum

2008-05-07T14:00:00.002-04:00

Where & When
October 2-5, 2008 Rock Eagle 4-H CenterEatonton, GA

Dear 4-H Volunteers,

Louisiana, along with our colleagues on the multi-state Southern Region 4-H Volunteer
Forum Planning Committee, looks forward to an outstanding forum this year. As this year’s
theme implies, “4-H: A Taste for All”, Southern Region 4-H Volunteer Forum will offer
volunteers and staff an opportunity to expand their horizons with informative, interactive
workshops, inspirational speakers and entertainment, special cultural events and high quality
exhibits.

Florida Volunteer Leader Forum UPDATE

2008-05-07T13:01:00.006-04:00

Florida 4-H Volunteer Forum June 20-22 2008

Update on Workshops
Please make a note on your registration for the Florida Volunteer Forum. (Registration form on web has been changed) Mail registration forms, Florida 4-H Participation Forms and payment by the June 6th registration deadline to :State 4-H Events Office

Workshop Titled 1st Aide has been cancelled. It has been replaced by a very exciting workshop Meteorology (8:30—12:00PM)Engaging real people in real meteorology: This workshop will present to volunteers a brand new 4-H project!! It is designed to provide youth with an opportunity to both enhance their knowledge of meteorology and provide a valuable volunteer service to the community via participation in the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network, a grassroots volunteer network of backyard weather observers of all ages and backgrounds working together to measure and map daily precipitations amounts in their local communities. Presenter: Rick Lusher and Team

Florida 4-H Congress

2008-05-05T12:44:00.003-04:00

Four hundred 4-H youth from across the state will make their way to the University of Florida campus for Florida 4-H Congress the last week of July. Throughout the week youth will participate in competitive events, leadership programs, sustainability programs, and other educational workshops.

More Congress information, including registration forms, can be found at the Florida 4-H Web site. The Alachua County Registration Deadline is Thursday May 22nd. If you're interested in going, please contact Mr. Ernie.

April County Council Report

2008-04-17T13:17:00.003-04:00

-Submitted by Kay H.

Dear 4-H Members,
At this past County Council meeting, officer elections were held. The final decisions were made as follows:
President: Mary B
Vice President: Amber Y
Secretary/Community Service chairperson: Tori B
Treasurer/Fundraising chairperson: Tiffany B
Reporter/Publicity chairpersons: Jeffrey K and Kay H
Historian: Sophie P
Recreation: Laura M
District V Delegates: Tori B, Kay H, Jeffrey K, and Mary B
Formal officer installations will be held at the 4-H Awards Program on May 3rd, 6:00 pm, at Living Faith Fellowship.

4-H has some other exciting events coming up! Quickly approaching is 4-H County Events Day this weekend, on April 19th, 8:30 am. It will be held at Creekside Community Church, and 4-H members from around the county will be giving speeches, demonstrations, and illustrated talks in their various project areas. There will also be a talent show and a fashion revue. A concession stand will be available, and he proceeds will go to the Heifer International project. Don’t forget to bring your spare change, as this is the last opportunity to donate to the cow banks and support this worthwhile service project. Hope to see you there!

Also coming up is Jr. Congress, which will be held May 9-10 at Mid. Florida Baptist Assembly. Jr. Congress is an event where 4-H members aged 8-13 years old can attend workshops in various areas, and have fun learning new things. This will give you a taste of what overnight camping is like! The cost is $30.00, and the Registration Deadline is May 2nd. For a brochure, please email Mr. Terry at eterry@ufl.edu

We are looking for Youth Fair non-livestock committee members. If you would like to be involved in making Youth Fair decisions and planning for next year‘s fair, then feel free to join. Youth members and adults are welcome. Contact Mr. Terry for more information.
Please be aware that the Standards of Excellence paperwork deadline is April 25th.
Our next County Council meeting will be held on May 20th, immediately following the 4-H Volunteer Dinner. Please join us to learn more about County Council and how you can become involved!

Clover Country CD

2008-04-17T10:43:00.001-04:00

National 4-H Council and EMI Music are producing a country music compilation CD called Clover Country Songs From Famous 4-H Alumni. This innovative project, never before seen in 4-H's history, includes 11 hit songs from confirmed 4-H alumni who are all country music superstars. Artists include: Alabama, Luke Bryan, Glen Campbell, Johnny Cash, Vince Gill, Faith Hill, Martina McBride, Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton, Sugarland, and Grammy-award winning songwriter Hillary Lindsey---who recently recorded her new song The Clown just for Clover Country!

The CD was released March 25 and will be available in select retail outlets, through the Purchase Now button on www.clovercountrycd.com.

Cool News!

2008-04-17T10:40:00.000-04:00

The National 4-H Council has partnered with Blue Bell Ice Cream to create 4-H Centennial Cupcake Ice Cream! The timing could not be better, as we prepare for our own Florida 4-H Centennial in 2009. We will be working with Dairy Farmers Inc. as well as marketers for Blue Bell products across the state to get the message out about this unique opportunity to consume a 4-H product, featuring green clover sprinkles. Look out for the launch of this celebratory 4-H ice cream in your local Blue Bell ice cream distributor over the coming weeks, and be sure to share the news with your own 4-H family, friends, and community. Some of the proceeds from the ice cream will benefit 4-H.

Farm and Forest Festival

2008-04-17T10:36:00.002-04:00

The Farm and Forest Festival will be held at Morningside Nature Center April 24-27. April 24-25 are school days and April 26-27 are open to everyone. See the flyer for more information.

Service Opportunity available at the Farm and Forest Festival. Ag. Ed/Nature booth/area desired with small animals, poultry, rabbits and displays. They would really like 4-H members there to present for School tours on the 24 and 25th. Youth volunteers are requested to dress in show dress. Contact Sally Wazny, Morningside Nature Center director, at 334-2170 for questions.

Alachua/Baker County 4-H Officer Training

2008-04-17T10:35:00.001-04:00

June 30, 2008 - Hold this date on your calendar!

Agents Ernie Terry, Alachua County, & Renee Gore, Baker County, are planning a club and county officers training to be held in Gainesville. We would like to have break out sessions for different offices and have experienced officers teach or help. Does anyone know of a good location that we could use for free or cleaning fees? I hope that we can have 50 to 75 or more in attendance, so we need a place with at least 5 or 6 meeting rooms. Call Mr. Terry if you can help.

Syngenta Crop Protection scholarship

2008-04-17T10:32:00.001-04:00

4-H seniors can apply for a scholarship from Syngenta Crop Protection. Applications can be found here or contact Mr. Ernie.

District V 4-H Council Officer Elections

2008-04-17T10:29:00.001-04:00

District V 4-H Council Officer Elections will be held at the 1st Christian Church Fellowship Hall in Lake Butler on Monday April 21 at 5:00 PM.

Agents / Volunteers...it would be nice to have a full slate of officers next year. Please seriously consider this opportunity. Youth, please be prepared to speak with the group if you have aspirations for these offices.

State Officer Applications due

2008-04-17T10:26:00.002-04:00

If you have any youth who would like to run for a State Officer position or be considered for Presidential Appointment, you can find the applications here. Please let Mr. Ernie know if you would like to run. He will need to fill out recommendation forms for you.

ALL APPLICATION PACKETS MUST COME FROM THE EXTENSION OFFICE, NO YOUTH WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR OFFICE IF THEY DO NOT APPLY THROUGH THEIR COUNTY AGENT.

Gary Brinen's Retirement Reception

2008-04-17T10:20:00.000-04:00

Florida 4-H Volunteer Forum

2008-04-14T14:09:00.006-04:00

The Florida 4-H Volunteer Association welcomes you to join us at Camp Cloverleaf, June 20-22, 2008 for the State Volunteer Forum.

There will be plenty of workshops to peak your interests, good food and loads of fun.

During the weekend we will have a Florida 4-H Volunteer Association Meeting where we will be holding elections for new officers and the swearing in of those officers. We will also be taking applications for new members. Now is the time to find out exactly what the Florida 4-H Volunteer Association is about and become a part of it.

We will have a Silent Auction to raise funds to support the Association. We are requesting donated items to be sold in the Silent Auction and that each county bring a door prize basket to be given away during the weekend.

Registration information and workshop descriptions are attached. We are looking forward to having a great weekend on tap and hope that you can join us.

Regards,

Karen Kirkendall
President
Florida 4-H Volunteer Association

Forum Invitation Letter

Workshop Descriptions

2008 Florida 4-H Volunteer Forum Registration Form
To save this file for yourself, click the file drop down menu and click download file as..., then select Word. This will save the registration form on your computer as a word document that you can enter your information on to.

April Calendar of Events

2008-04-02T15:21:00.000-04:00

1 Alachua County Youth Fair last day Fairgrounds
5 State 4-H / FFA Livestock Judging Contest Gainesville
7–11 ACSB Spring Break
11 Registration Deadline for County Events CEO 4:00 PM
10 Youth Fair Board CEO 7:30 PM
12 State 4-H / FFA Horse Judging Contest Gainesville
12 State 4-H Forest Ecology Judging Contest Austin Carey Forest Gainesville
14 4-H Advisory Committee CEO 11:00 AM
15 County Council (Officer Elections) CEO 6:30 PM
19 County Events (registration begins at 8:30 a.m.) TBA 9am – done
19 Horse Proj Clinic; Karen Iverson UF Horse Teaching Unit 9 AM- 3PM
20 Horse Proj Clinic; Jim Skidmore UF Horse Teaching Unit 9 AM- 3PM
19 Alachua County Youth Fair Livestock Awards Mebane 6:00 PM
21 District V 4-H Council Elections Lake Butler ? 5:00 PM
23 Horse Committee CEO 6:30 PM
24-27 Farm & Forest Festival Morningside Nature Center
25–26 Area B Horse Show Clay County Fairgrounds

Spring is here!

2008-04-01T09:54:00.000-04:00

It's time to break out those trowels and garden gloves - spring is here! Gardening is a great activity to do with your 4-H members. It's fun and easy and a great experiential teaching tool. April is National Garden Month, so it's a great time to get started. Here are some more gardening with kids resources:

Florida School Garden Competition
Junior Master Gardener program
Kids Gardening (National Gardening Association)

Get started now and enjoy the benefits!

Project Clubs Article

2008-02-28T16:32:00.000-05:00

Are 4-H Project Clubs for You?

Submitted by
Judy Butterfield, Central District
Regional Specialized 4-H Agent III

Although General 4-H clubs are the most commonly known type of delivery mode, 4-H reaches youth in other ways – one of those being a project club. This delivery mode serves a different purpose but is equally important. Project clubs may differ in regard to duration and intensity, but always involve the “learn by doing” concept. Project clubs should be developed and started based on the needs of the youth involved, the availability of volunteers with special knowledge in the project area, and research-based curriculum should be available to support the specific project whether it be computers, gardening, woodworking, bee-keeping, llamas, etc. In Florida, Shooting Sports is probably one of the best known subject areas using project clubs as its delivery mode.

Because they may have fewer members than a General Club, project clubs provide the needed quality time for youth to form a caring relationship with adults, as well as promoting a sense of belonging. It is also wise to keep in mind that 4-H Project clubs usually have a beginning start date and a specific ending date – it could be a swine club specifically geared for raising an animal for the fair, or a sewing club where the items being made are being donated for a specific use such as a neonatal unit or hospice. As previously mentioned these clubs usually have a specific duration and purpose.

Project clubs are a wonderful way to get more youth involved in true youth development programs and activities. They also allow volunteers to become more involved and use their individual skills; therefore having more ownership in the program.

Source: California 4-H Leader Digest, (2006), and Dr. Todd Tarifa, LSU 4-H Extension.

February County Council Report

2008-02-26T15:26:00.000-05:00

Greetings, 4-H Members! Our last County Council meeting was held on
February 19th, and we discussed some exciting upcoming events.

The Alachua County 4-H Youth Fair is coming up! Get your exhibits
ready to be judged on March 15th at the County Extension Office. The
fair itself will be held March 28th - April 1st at the Alachua County
Fairgrounds. You should have received your Fair packet with all
pertinent information in the mail. Please be sure to look it over and
submit your fair form. Come join us at the Fair!

You may have heard that there is going to be a new 4-H T-Shirt
available through County Council as a fundraiser. One shirt costs
approximately $10.00, and may be pre-ordered by calling the Extension
Office. We recently had a design contest to determine what would be put
on the shirts. Congratulations to the McIntosh family on their winning
design! The image will be featured on the T-Shirts once they are made.

Please note that 4-H County Events Day has been moved to April 19th.
County Events Day offers an opportunity for you to give speeches,
illustrated talks, and demonstrations. You can also model clothing that
you’ve constructed or selected, and participate in the talent show.

Jr. Congress is coming up on May 9th and 10th. Jr. Congress is an
overnight camp where youth have fun, learn new skills, make new
friends, and get an idea of what Senior Congress is like. Several
Senior-level 4-H youth have signed up to teach classes at Jr. Congress.
If you are also interested in teaching or need more information,
contact the Extension Office at (352)-955-2402 . The registration
deadline for Jr. Congress is May 2, 2008.

4-H County Council officer elections are coming up soon. A vote will
be held on April 15th to decide who will hold each office. Holding a
4-H County Council office looks great on high school transcripts! Being
an officer will also give you a chance to practice those ever-valuable
leadership skills.

Speaking of leadership, there is an ATV Safety Program forming that
needs volunteers. Intermediate and senior 4-H-ers may be interested in
participating. For more information, contact Lorraine Williams at
LSW@alachuacounty.US .

Grape Pruning at Grandma’s Vineyard was a great success! 98 people
helped raise money for our 4-H record book fund. Many thanks to all who
showed up to volunteer and helped us break our record by finishing at
1:30 pm. Also, a big thank-you to Ms. Lorraine for providing us with a
delicious lunch!

Sadly, there is some disturbing news at hand. The University of
Florida is in the process of making budget cuts that will affect county
extension services and the 4-H program throughout the state of Florida.
While the budget cuts may be unavoidable, we can make our opinions and
support for 4H known by contacting our legislators, UF Board of Trustee
members, and local newspapers and media. Tell them how much 4-H means
to you! Decisions will be made as early as March 8th, so please let
your voice be heard before then! Please visit the Save Florida 4H blog
at http://saveflorida4h.blogspot.com/ for more information, and for
contacts.

If you’re looking for another way to promote 4-H, then you can
participate in the Faces of 4-H 100-year anniversary Celebration.
Please visit the state website, where applications and details can be
found. The deadline is March 1st.

submitted by Kayleigh Hinson, County Council co-reporter

2008-02-12T12:11:00.000-05:00

2007-2008 Alachua County 4-H Calendar Revised 2/12/2008

DATE DESCRIPTION LOCATION TIME
February 2008
16 Grape Pruning Grandma’s Vineyard 8 AM til ?
18 ACSB No School
19 County Council CEO 6:30 PM
23 Grape Pruning (Reserve date)
23 Dallas Osborne Scholarship Ride-a-Thon San Felasco State Park 9:00 AM
Contact Suzanne Holton 485-2230 Main Ranger Station
26 Horse Committee CEO 6:30 PM

DATE DESCRIPTION LOCATION TIME
March 2008
1 County Events TBA 9am – done
3 ACYFair BBQ Contest Food Safety Training CEO 7 – 8:30 PM
4 4-H Record-Book Workshop by Ernie Terry Bethlehem Presb. Church 6:00 PM pre-register/order Pizza - Kim Massagee 495-4038 Archer
13 Youth Fair Board CEO 7:30 PM
14 – 16 Third Executive Board Camp Ocala
15 Youth Fair Advance Entry Deadline CEO by 4:00 PM
for Non-Livestock Show Events
15 4-H Exhibit Judging Day CEO 10AM-4PM
15 4-H Record Book Entry (non livestock) CEO by 4:00 PM
19 Horse Show Pre-entry Deadline CEO noon
19 or 26 4-H Record Book Judging CEO 6:30 PM
22 Youth Fair Set Up Fairgrounds 8:00 AM
22 County Horse Show Canterbury
26 Horse Committee CEO 6:30 PM
27 Set Up Exhibit Building Fairgrounds 4:00 PM
28 ACSB No school
28 – 4/1 Alachua County Youth Fair Fairgrounds
29 – 4/3 National 4-H Conference Chevy Chase, MD

DATE DESCRIPTION LOCATION TIME
April 2008
4/1 Alachua County Youth Fair last day Fairgrounds
7 – 11 ACSB Spring Break
10 Youth Fair Board CEO 7:30 PM
12 State 4-H Forest Ecology Judging Contest Austin Carey Forest Gainesville
16 County Council (elections) CEO 6:30 PM
23 Horse Committee CEO 6:30 PM
25 – 26 Area B Horse Show Clay County Fairgrounds

DATE DESCRIPTION LOCATION TIME
May 2008
3 District Events TBA 9AM-1PM
3 4-H Awards Program TBA
8 Youth Fair Board CEO 7:30 PM
13 All State Portfolios for scholarships and CEO by 4:30 PM
State trips due to CEO
21 County Council CEO 6:30 PM
4-H Volunteer Dinner CEO 6:30 PM
26 Memorial Day – office closed
28 Horse Committee CEO 6:30 PM
TBA State Congress Registration Deadline
TBA State 4- H Legislature Deadline
29 4-H Photo and Poster State Contest Entries due CEO
29 General Public Speaking Speeches due CEO
29 State 4-H Dairy Poster Contest Entries due CEO
29 Horse Public Speaking Speeches due CEO

DATE DESCRIPTION LOCATION TIME
June 2008
5 Last day of school
12 Youth Fair Board CEO 7:30 PM
20-22 FL 4-H Volunteer Leader Forum Camp Cloverleaf
23 – 27 State 4-H Legislature Tallahassee

DATE DESCRIPTION LOCATION TIME
July 2008
4 Independence Day – office closed
10 – 12 State 4-H Horse Show Tampa Fairgrounds
21 – 25 State 4-H Congress UF Campus
29 – 8/3 Southern Regional 4-H Horse Championships Lexington, VA

DATE DESCRIPTION LOCATION TIME
August 2008
12 – 14 4-H Hog and Ham UF Meats Lab

See the Alachua County 4-H Wiki ... now in testing!

2008-01-15T23:30:00.000-05:00

Ok gang, this is the link to the wiki that was mentioned at the County Council meeting in January (just click on the blog post title). Give it a visit and see what you think. If you have info or such you'd like to see there, email me and I'll put it up. Remember, this is only a test!

Is it possible to be TOO green?

2008-01-11T09:35:00.000-05:00

So I love the 4-H graphic at the top of the page, but the green background for the blog text makes it a little hard for to read! Can we maybe make the surrounding background 4-H green and leave the background behind the text white or a lighter color?

-sue mc

Alachua County 4-H Council, December 18th 2007

2008-01-07T12:19:00.001-05:00

Alachua County 4-H Council, December 18th 2007

The meeting was called to order by Amber at 7:00pm. The pledges were lead by Mary and Tori. The minutes were read by Mary. There was no correspondence. Club reports were given by Tori-Micanopy friendship, Laura-Town and Country and Amber-Rocky Creek. The treasurers report was given by Tori, we have 1,272.95.

Old Business: Tori gave out fliers about the T-shirt design contest.

Next we had short committee meetings followed by reports. Kay gave the first report or the publicity and recruitment committee. They are currently working on putting together a county 4-H website. Next, Mary gave the community service committees report. She gave an update on the heifer international project. The project will start in January and end at the end of the year awards ceremony in May. Members of the committee will be visiting each of the 4-H clubs in Alachua County in order to get the clubs involved in the project. They will be giving each club information on how they can raise money for this project.

New Business: Mrs. Ott, the Banners grandmother, passed away recently. She was a 4-H volunteer that worked with the Micanopy Friendship club. The council would like to make some sort of memorial in her honor. There was a motion to have a memorial committee to decide what the council would do for Mrs. Ott. The motion passed and a sign up sheet was passed around for anyone interested in serving on that committee.

After announcements and birthdays, the meeting adjourned at 7:27pm.

Submitted by Mary Boyle

Registration Form Test

2008-01-04T10:50:00.001-05:00

This is only a test form. You will not be registered for anything. Fill it out to help Mr Ernie learn how to use this service.

Click link below to register.
http://app.formassembly.com/forms/view/6066

This is really cool!

2007-12-22T17:02:00.000-05:00

This is a great blog. Well, it is only about the 3rd I've ever seen....but a wonderful idea and project. Happy Holidays and New Year to everyone. See you soon, Ms. Lorraine

Look we are not the only one's looking to GROW!

2007-12-19T14:30:00.000-05:00

From Mr. Ernie - Alachua County Group, check out this post below from the National 4-H Blog http://www.4hblogs.org/ccn

Call out for 4-H Teens, Recent 4-H Alumni, Volunteers, and Staff: Creating the Future. Together. Online.
Please share this exciting opportunity with your 4-H teens, college-age 4-H alumni, volunteers, and staff! The ACCESS 4-H Innovation Team will provide key guidance for the creation of a new 4-H online environment.
We are looking for visionaries to help design a celebration of all that 4-H has been, is now and will become. We will explore how to create the ultimate online community for 4-H that tells the world our stories and our impact.
You are the experts. Having been involved day-to-day with 4-H, you have the insight, wisdom and knowledge to design a whole new way of connecting. If you are interested in sharing your creativity, your opinions and your enthusiasm for 4-H, apply now to be a member of the ACCESS 4-H Innovation Team.
We will gather for a short series of telephone and online collaborations (between January 7-18) resulting in a brand new 4-H online community. Be part of the select group to help define and design your community for current and future 4-H members.
Apply to be a member of the exclusive ACCESS 4-H Innovation Team. All we need is 1-2 paragraphs explaining your 4-H background and your interest in bringing 4-H up to speed with what you need online. Creativity counts! If you'd like, feel free to show us how by creating a video, artwork, whatever expresses your thoughts for a new 4-H online, as well! We'll also need your contact information (name, age, home state/county, phone number, email address). College students who are 4-H alumni are welcome as well!
Submit your application to us at access4h@4-h.org by December 30. Please get your applications in soon - we'll be accepting participants on a first-come first-serve basis, with preference given to applications received before December 30.
For more information about the ACCESS 4-H project, please visit 4-h.org/access4-h/.

Notes from 12/18/07 Council

2007-12-18T20:22:00.000-05:00

Thanks everyone for the ideas and feedback at the meeting this evening. Remember this site is just a test for us. Please do not invite any else to participate at this time without asking me first.

Thanks for your help

Ernie Terry

2007-12-18T14:19:00.000-05:00

2007-2008 Alachua County 4-H Calendar Revised 12/18/2007

DATE DESCRIPTION LOCATION TIME
December 2007
18 County Council, Covered Dish Dinner CEO 6:30 PM
24 – 25 Christmas Holiday – office closed
24 – 1/4 ACSB No School
January 2008
1 New Year’s Day – office closed
4th Registration Deadline District V Junior Congress CEO 4:30 PM
10 (Club Org. Leaders) All Reasonable Effort forms CEO
10 Youth Fair Board CEO 7:30 PM
11-12 District V Junior Congress Middle FL Bapt. Assy.
14 4-H Horse App. and Lease Forms Due CEO 4:30 PM
14 Mandatory 4-H Rabbit Project Meeting CEO 7:00PM
Rabbit Entries Due
15 Broiler Orders Due to Cindy Sanders CEO 4:30 PM
15 Youth Fair L/S Entries Deadline: CEO 4:30 PM Breeding Beef, Dairy Heifer, Breeding Goat & Poultry
15 County Council CEO 6:30 PM
18 ACSB No School
21 Martin Luther King Day – office closed
21 Hog & Ham Workshop UF Meats Lab
22 Horse Committee CEO 6:30 PM
23 County Horse Show Pre-entry Deadline CEO noon
24 Tentative Marketing Meeting Mebane Middle 7:00PM
25 – 27 Senior Leadership Adventure Weekend (LAW) Camp Ocala Tentative
26 County Horse Show Canterbury
31 Pick Up Broiler Chicks/Poultry Workshop CEO 6:00 PM

DATE DESCRIPTION LOCATION TIME
February 2008
1st week Mandatory Marketing Meeting (TBA) Mebane 7PM (tent.)
1 No Late Entries for Livestock after this date 4:30 PM
1 - 3 Intermediate Leadership Adventure Weekend (LAW) Camp Cloverleaf
7 – 18 Florida State Fair Tampa
8 Camp Counselor Application Deadline CEO 4:30 PM
9 Florida State Fair Horse & Livestock Tampa
14 Youth Fair Board CEO 7:30 PM
Judging Contest
16 Grape Pruning Grandma’s Vineyard 8 AM til ?
18 ACSB No School
19 County Council CEO 6:30 PM
22-23 Camp Counselor Training Session 1 Hernando County 6PM – 2PM
23 Grape Pruning (Reserve date)
26 Horse Committee CEO 6:30 PM
March 2008
1 County Events TBA 9am – done
3 ACYFair BBQ Contest Food Safety Training CEO 7 – 8:30 PM
13 Youth Fair Board CEO 7:30 PM
14 – 16 Third Executive Board Camp Ocala
15 4-H Exhibit Judging Day CEO 10AM-4PM
15 4-H Record Book Entry (non livestock) CEO by 5:00 PM
19 Horse Show Pre-entry Deadline CEO noon
19 or 26 4-H Record Book Judging CEO 6:30 PM
22 Youth Fair Set Up Fairgrounds 8:00 AM
22 County Horse Show Canterbury
26 Horse Committee CEO 6:30 PM
27 Set Up Exhibit Building Fairgrounds 4:00 PM
28 ACSB No school
28 – 4/1 Alachua County Youth Fair Fairgrounds
29 – 4/3 National 4-H Conference Chevy Chase, MD
?? Family Fun & Talent Night CEO TBA

April 2008
4/1 Alachua County Youth Fair last day Fairgrounds
7 – 11 ACSB Spring Break
10 Youth Fair Board CEO 7:30 PM
12 State 4-H Forest Ecology Judging Contest Austin Carey Forest Gainesville
?? 4-H Newsletter Reports Deadline CEO 4:30 PM
16 County Council (elections) CEO 6:30 PM
23 Horse Committee CEO 6:30 PM
25 – 26 Area B Horse Show Clay County Fairgrounds

DATE DESCRIPTION LOCATION TIME
May 2008
3 District Events TBA 9AM-1PM
3 4-H Awards Program TBA
8 Youth Fair Board CEO 7:30 PM
13 All State Portfolios for scholarships and CEO by 4:30 PM
State trips due to CEO
16-17 Camp Counselor Training Session 2 Citrus County 6PM – 2PM
21 County Council CEO 6:30 PM
4-H Volunteer Dinner CEO 6:30 PM
26 Memorial Day – office closed
28 Horse Committee CEO 6:30 PM
TBA State Congress Registration Deadline
TBA State 4- H Legislature Deadline
29 4-H Photo and Poster State Contest Entries due CEO
29 General Public Speaking Speeches due CEO
29 State 4-H Dairy Poster Contest Entries due CEO
29 Horse Public Speaking Speeches due CEO

LOCATION TIME
June 2008
5 Last day of school
12 Youth Fair Board CEO 7:30 PM
13-14 Camp Counselor Training Session 31 Columbia County 6PM – 2PM

23 – 27 State 4-H Legislature Tallahassee

July 2008
4 Independence Day – office closed
6 Camp Counselors Report for duty Camp Ocala 3 PM
7th -11th Summer 4-H Camp Camp Ocala
10 – 12 State 4-H Horse Show Tampa Fairgrounds
21 – 25 State 4-H Congress UF Campus
29 – 8/3 Southern Regional 4-H Horse Championships Lexington, VA
August 2008
12 – 14 4-H Hog and Ham UF Meats Lab

Great Thoughts Sue!

2007-12-12T08:53:00.001-05:00

This is exactly the kind of feedback I am hoping to get. I have only glanced at the wikipage...Interesesting Utube from your girls ;) I have a big deadline to meet Friday. Please remind me next week to devote some more time to this.

Why do we want a blog?

2007-12-11T15:09:00.000-05:00

Well, before we jump in with both feet: what's the purpose of the blog? Some I can think of are:
- to facilitate conversation between Alachua County 4-H members
- to have a place to desiminate information about upcoming events
- to have a place for County Council committees to record and discuss ideas

Blogs are pretty good for chronological stuff - usually used like a diary. The nice thing about a blog is that, if it's set up that way, anyone can comment on a given blog entry. Blogs are not good ways to keep information, in general; to find specific information you have to search on a keyword or hunt back through the archives. The Stars & Stripes blog seems to be mostly a club scrapbook - the pictures look really neat. Are we just making a spot for a County scrapbook, so to speak, or do we want more?

Another possibility is a wiki. A wiki allows you to create, edit and link to websites easily. Like a blog, you have a group of 'admins' who can actually make changes; unlike a blog, there's no place for comments from people not on the list. Here's a wiki I'm using with a group of homeschool students who are doing Chemistry labs with me: treetown chemistry You can see it'd be easier to find stuff because you can make different pages for different things - we could have a Youth Fair page, a page for County Council meetings/events, a Horse Club page, etc.

No reason we couldn't use both, actually. We could use the blog for discussion and then when details on an event or whatever are decided, someone put's 'em on the County 4-H wiki. It'd take some coordination until we got the hang of it. It's not that I'm anti-blog - it might be just what we want. I just think we need to discuss just how we'll use it before we establish it.

New Baby

2007-12-11T09:33:00.000-05:00

Amalia Elaine was born December 3rd weighing 7 # 6 oz. She is beautiful. I will try to figure out how to post a picture in a day or so.

Ernie

Emily, Sue and Odette

2007-12-11T09:18:00.000-05:00

I just signed up for this yesterday. I know that Emily is already using it for her club. Sue and Odette don't start anything new yet or invite others yet except for maybe your personal children. Go ahead and invite them if you can. I don't know if only I can do that from my end. I would like to use this for several weeks as a test before making any recommendations for control and safety. Feel free to send posts back and forth and learn how to use this and its features.

All Please do not recommend this to other members and clubs until we have a chance to meet and come up with some guidelines and safety precautions.

Alachua County 4-H Horse Show

2007-12-10T17:23:00.000-05:00

Alachua County 4-H Horse Show
Weekend Results for December 1, 2007
Walk Trot Huntseat
Highpoint: Amye Francis & Shamrock
Res. Highpoint: Naomi Castro & Casper
Jr. Huntseat
Highpoint: Haley Jones & Mr. Moonlight Surprise
Res. Highpoint: Megan Whitehurst & Captain Jack
Sr. Huntseat
Highpoint: Emily Staley & UF Jetalong Jack
Res Highpoint: Aileen Dixon & Caught Red Handed
Open Huntseat
Highpoint: Katie Fink & Ripley
Walk Trot Western
Highpoint: Tristan Hyde & Take a Chance on Me
Res. Highpoint: Rebecca Sperling & Ima Foxy Lil Lena
Jr. Western
Highpoint: Hannah Emerson & Zippos Pat Bar
Res. Highpoint: Allison McQuagge & Sabers Easter Lark
Sr. Western
Highpoint: Sierra Cambell & Carosels Kid
Res. Highpoint: Rachel Preston & A Good Selection
Jr. Games
Highpoint: Megan Whitehurst & Bingo
Res. Highpoint: Malerie Whitehurst & Cinder
Versatility Rider for the Day: Hannah Emerson & Zippos Pat Bar