Kaufman County 4-H News

SOIL AND CROP SCIENCE SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY

2012-02-08T14:51:00.000-06:00

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY
Outstanding students are eligible for scholarships in amounts up to $8000

Deadline March 15

Apply at http://soilcrop.tamu.edu/scholarships.html

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE CHOICES:
Agronomy, Turfgrass Management Option, Soil & Crop Management Option
Agro-Industry Option, Plant & Environmental Soil Science
Soil Science Emphasis, Plant Science Emphasis

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Staci Frerich, Recruitment Advisor
sfrerich@ag.tamu.edu 361-290-0988
http://soilcrop.tamu.edu

2012 Texas 4-H Livestock Ambassador Short Courses

2012-02-08T14:47:00.000-06:00

TEXAS 4-H LIVESTOCK AMBASSADOR PROGRAM

Mission

The Texas 4-H Livestock Ambassador program strives to provide high school aged 4-H members the opportunity to develop and practice advanced leadership skills related to mentoring other youth, and to become advocates for animal agriculture.

Objectives

• Prepare youth to serve in leadership capacities in junior livestock programs

across Texas.

• Prepare youth for the experience of the University setting, through intensive

science based instruction and experiences.

• Prepare and provide opportunities for youth to serve in advocacy roles for

animal agriculture, 4-H, and junior livestock programs.

• Develop a heightened awareness of career opportunities in animal agriculture

and advocacy.

History

The Texas 4-H Livestock Ambassador Program is an in-depth learning experience for selected youth to represent the agricultural industry in Texas. Training includes a short course experience on the campuses of either Texas A&M University or Texas Tech University. During this four-day training, more than 30 hours of rigorous instruction by university faculty, Texas AgriLife Extension Specialists, and County Extension Agents cover topics such as animal science principles, leadership, career development, and animal agriculture advocacy. Youth also learn the value of giving back to the community.

Once a young person becomes a Texas 4-H Livestock Ambassador they are required to commit at least 30 hours of service annually, in most cases the service goes back to assisting novice 4-H families with their livestock projects and education. Ambassadors conduct and assist with educational livestock project clinics, conduct home project visits, speak to civic groups, assist with livestock shows, speak at agricultural awareness days and advocate for the livestock and agriculture industry across Texas.

In the three years since the inception of the Texas 4-H Livestock Ambassador Program, there have been 117 outstanding 4-H members complete the course and serve in the role of 4-H Livestock Ambassador. On average, these youth have volunteered more than 150 contact hours over their year of service. This equates to more than16,000 hours contributed at a value in volunteer time of more than $336,000.

4-H Livestock Ambassadors have presented topics in agriculture advocacy, nutrition, selection, daily maintenance and care, showmanship, sportsmanship, preparing new 4-H families for show, and management of show animals during a livestock show. Additionally, the ambassadors teach livestock ethics and animal care to the novice 4-H families. These individuals have represented 4-H at interpretative events with such individuals and groups as members of the Texas House of Representatives and Senate, Texas Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner of Agriculture, County Judges and Commissioners, Livestock Show Management and 4-H Families.

2012 Texas 4-H Livestock Ambassador Short Courses:

Texas A&M University July 16-19, 2012

Texas Tech University July 23-25, 2012

Selection Criteria:

· senior aged (14-18) 4-H youth that have exhibited a superior level of ambition regarding their livestock projects

· students with a profound interest in animal science and animal production

· students have shown advanced leadership qualities and a willingness to help others

· County Extension Agent approval

· top 25% class rank

Process:

A selection committee will review the applications and accept 25 participants per university.

If you are interested, contact the county extension offices.

2012 National 4-H Congress

2012-02-03T08:10:00.002-06:00

The Texas 4-H will be accepting applications for the 2012 National 4-H Congress beginning February 13th and ending April 16th on 4-H Connect. The 2012 National 4-H Congress will be Thursday, November 29 through Tuesday, December 4 at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta in Georgia. National 4-H Congress is the flagship event of the National 4-H program. Each year a National Design Team of Extension educators, 4-H youth, and 4-H adult volunteers analyze current youth issues and determine the most effective ways to address them. The program combines a variety of fun and exciting educational, recreational and networking opportunities. The program combines plenary sessions, seminars, discussion groups, and a service learning experience. The nation’s most outstanding community leaders, speakers, and educators present the most current and timely information available.

For more information please contact the county extension office..

second annual 4-H Volunteer Conference is set for July 27-29, 2012

2012-02-02T23:54:00.000-06:00

Save the Date!

The second annual 4-H Volunteer Conference is set for July 27-29, 2012 in San Antonio. Whether you have been a volunteer for one, 12 or 20 years, the conference offers something for everyone! The conference will kick-off the evening of Friday, July 27^th with a dinner and general session, with a variety of educational workshops offered all day Saturday and Sunday morning.

Scurry Rosser Parents & Friends Annual Auction

2012-02-02T23:46:00.000-06:00

Texoma Exposition & Livestock Show 4-H/FFA Livestock Judging Contest

2012-02-02T23:37:00.000-06:00

Texoma Exposition & Livestock Show

4-H/FFA Livestock Judging Contest

Friday, April 6, 2012

Loy Lake Park, Denison, TX

Take Exit #67 off Highway 75

Rules:

Junior Division – 8^th grade & under.

Senior Division – 9^th thru 12^th grade.

Teams will consist of 3 or 4 members.

There is no limit to the number of teams per county/chapter.

Teams or individuals not present when contest begins will not be allowed to participate.

Scantrons will be provided

#2 Pencil

State tie break rules will be used

Awards:

Awards will be presented at contest sight as soon as they are tabulated.

· 1st Place teams in each division receive team awards

· Rosettes will be given to 2nd – 5th placing teams in both divisions.

· Buckles to high individuals in each contest

· Top 10 high individuals of both contests.

Classes:

9- 10 classes of livestock. These will include beef, sheep, goats, and swine.

3 – 4 question classes will be included in lieu of reasons.

10 minutes per class.

Contest will be electronically scored through www.judgingcard.com

Registration Fees:

Late Fee: After March 27^th - $50 per team or $15 per individual

You may register online or the day of the event, but late fees will be charged

Payments may be made to: Texoma Livestock Association (TLA)

C/O Judging Contest / G. Blount

PO Box 7

Bells, TX 75414

Volunteers:

Clubs/chapters entering teams are asked to provide at least one (1) adult volunteer to assist with the contest as a group leader, runners, timekeeper etc.

Information: Located on judgingcard.com or www.texomalivestock.com

Superintendents: Glen Blount: 903-814-4900 / glen.blount@bellsisd.net

John McCullough: 903-815-1122 / john.mccullough@pottsboroisd.org

Josh Vincent: 903-821-8638 / vincent.josh@howeisd.net

Morris County Market Show

2012-02-02T23:35:00.000-06:00

“Morris Open Heifer Show”

March 3, 2012

Register Time: 8-10 AM

Fee: Register $20

Hwy 259, Daingerfield, TX.

Open heifer show will be held after the Market Show. Entry fee will be paid morning of the show.

Classes will be determined by number of entries.

3. Exhibitor will have option of showing heifer or steer during showmanship class.

Division & Classes

There must be a minimum of 3 animals to justify a breed. If there are less than 3 animals of a breed, they will be shown in other registered breeds. Champion & Reserve Champion awards will be awarded in each breed. Awards will also be presented in each division for Champion and Reserve Champion (American, British & Continental).

Breeds will show by division – American, British & Continental.

NO BULLS

No Animals older than June 1, 2009 (30 months).

Blow and Go. NO Adhesive!

Generators Welcome

2012 Summer Multi County Camp "4-H Proud to be an American"

2012-01-24T18:29:00.000-06:00

Join us for 2012 4-H Multi-County Camp. “4-H Proud To Be An American” 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 9-11, 2012. 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 25th, 2012 .Please note – registration is due to your county Extension office.

2012 Camp Workshops
Outdoor Challenge Sewing Water Activities / Wildlife
Junior Master Gardener – surprise! – The Piney Woods Master Gardeners
ROPES Course – stations to be determined (2) – trained camp employees

2012 Texas 4-H Golf Challenge Camp

2012-01-24T17:08:00.000-06:00

The Texas 4-H and Youth Development is pleased to offer the first ever Texas 4-H Golf Challenge Camp. This two day camp provides youth 12-18 an opportunity to take an in depth look at the major components that make up the Texas 4-H Golf Challenge (sports nutrition, golf course/turf grass management, and the rules and etiquette of golf). During this two day event, youth will work with Texas A&M Faculty and Staff as well as golf professionals to learn more about the program. The camp will also give youth the opportunity to learn more about career opportunities related to the Golf Challenge and how to prepare for college. Lastly, youth will work with golf professionals to enhance their swing capabilities and compete in numerous skill activities. The event will take place April 27-29, 2012 in College Station. The cost to attend is $250 (includes lodging for two nights, meals, professional instruction, t-shirt, and golf instruction, transportation to and from locations). Registration is limited to the first 30 youth and will open February 1st on 4-H Connect. For more information please contact me at 979-845-6533.

2nd annual Scrappin’ Retreat at the 4-H Conference Center in Brownwood, TX on March 15 (or 16th)-18!

2012-01-24T17:02:00.000-06:00

2^nd annual Scrappin’ Retreat at the 4-H Conference Center in Brownwood, TX on March 15 (or 16^th)-18!

Please forward to your scrapbooking friends! Would love to have them!

Want to get away from it all and get some scrappin’ accomplished!?! Here
is your chance to do just that...and perhaps also make a few new friends,
learn some new tricks and techniques, and win a door prize or two!
Who Can Attend: Adults who have an interest in scrapbooking, card-making or
other paper craft projects. Youth who also have one of these interests may attend with a parent, but must be engaged in working on projects and not disrupting other participants!
Registration:
Participants have two options for when to arrive: Thursday afternoon after 3:00 p.m. or Friday morning. Registration fees are dependent on when you arrive and what lodging choice you choose. Lodging options are the dormitory (up to 8 people in a dorm side), or the Leadership Lodge (hotel like facility for single or double occupancy). The registration fee includes most meals, coffee/tea for the whole weekend, lodging, and also has a program fee built in to take care of some goodies for each participant, a few door prizes, etc. Pricing is provided below.

 Thursday Arrival — March 15-18:

Dorm Fee — $190.04;

Lodge Double Occupancy —$220.25;

Lodge Single Occupancy — $339.50;
 Friday Arrival— March 16-18:

Dorm Fee — $152.56;

Lodge Double Occupancy —$172.70;

Lodge Single Occupancy — $252.20

RSVP:
Please complete the attached registration form and mail with appropriate payment s or provide your credit card information to have deposit charged to it. Balance will be due upon arrival at the retreat. RSVP is due to Charla Bading by February 15, 2012! Refunds will be given for 100% of payment through February 15. After February 15, a $25 fee will be kept and $75 will be returned.

We are accommodating credit card payment this year – except for the $25 program fee to cover some goodies for each person, door prizes, and other materials for the retreat! So pay close attention to the instructions on sending your $25 check and either a second check for the deposit OR include your credit card info! The registration is due February 15 to Charla Bading in San Angelo - contact information is on the form.

There are still 33 days left to register for the Kids Science Challenge!

2012-01-24T16:56:00.000-06:00

The Kids' Science Challenge is a FREE nationwide competition for 3rd to 6th graders to submit experiments and problems for SCIENTISTS and ENGINEERS to solve.

Play science games, watch videos, and enter to win awesome prizes and trips!

HLSR - Horticulture Program & Competition for Youth & Adults

2012-01-24T16:54:00.000-06:00

The Houston Livestock & Rodeo has expanded the horticulture program, adding horticulture competitions for youth and adults to participate in. The Horticulture Program includes competitions, horticulture displays and educational seminars. The Horticulture Program’s competition component will provide an opportunity for Texas students, non-professional adult gardeners, and professional florists and landscapers to participate in several competitive events. Each contest will have a junior, adult non-professional and professional division.We encourage all who are interested to enter into the contest.

The 2012 Horticulture Competition provides Texas youth and adults the opportunity to showcase their talents in several contests, including:

Youth Division:

Floral Arrangements: Exhibitors create floral arrangements using fresh and dried materials that communicate their interpretation of two themes, Dining with a Texas Flair and Rodeo Action.

Container Grown Plants: Exhibitors cultivate a collection of container grown fresh plant material.

Photography: Exhibitors enter an original photograph that captures horticultural elements; the composition must include a road, path or trail.

Landscaping: Exhibitors may enter as an individual or team to design a 6' square outdoor planter around the theme,Celebrating Texas Heritage

Adult Division:

Floral Arrangements: Exhibitors create floral arrangements using fresh and dried materials that communicate their interpretation of two themes, Dining with a Texas Flair and Rodeo Action.

Container Grown Plants: Exhibitors enter cultivated collections of container grown fresh plant material, either in the cacti collection or general collection category.

Cut Specimens:

Collections - Exhibitors may enter cut specimens right out of their flower beds.

Edibles - Exhibitors may submit samples from their vegetable garden.

Photography: Exhibitors enter an original photograph that captures horticultural elements; the composition must include a gate or entryway.

Landscaping - Outdoor Living on a Budget: Exhibitors may enter as an individual or team to design a 400-square-foot living space on a $1,000 budget.

Landscaping - Miniscapes: Exhibitors may enter as an individual or team to create a miniscape using native Texas plants in a 6-foot-square outdoor planter.

NO ENTRY FEES

DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 3, 2012

District IV 4-H Lock-In January 20 & 21, 2011

2011-12-28T09:22:00.000-06:00

It’s that time of year again, time for the district-wide lock-in. Last year, we had such a great turnout with over 200 4-H members across joining in on the unlimited food, fellowship, fun and games at Amazing Jakes. Don’t miss out. This year will be just as fun!!

Time: The lock –in will run from 7:00 p.m., January 20, 2011 until 6:00 am on Saturday, January 21, 2011. Youth must be picked up no later than 6:20 am.

Place: Amazing Jakes at Collin Creek Mall, Plano, TX.
http://www.amazingjakes.com/plano/hours.php

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 1st, 2011 and runs through January 13th, 2012.