Club Communication Challenge Program

One of the biggest benefits to being a 4-H member is the public speaking and communication skills you can develop. No matter what you do in life or where you go, good communication skills are a must! With that in mind, we are excited to announce the “Club Communication Challenge” program.

The Club Communication Challenge is brand-new this year! It was designed to help clubs in Waseca County 4-H include demonstrations and communication activities into their club’s educational program. It is a fun program that illustrates to youth how important skills in public speaking and communication are in life by giving them an avenue to improve communication skills in a low-risk setting.

Clubs will receive points for activities completed and demonstrations given. There will be separate points given for the Club Communication Challenge, as well as points worked in to the Purple Ribbon Club incentive program. Each club leader received a kit with the necessary supplies necessary to do fun, simple communication activities at their club meetings.

***Members, when you complete a demonstration or illustrated talk at a club meeting, you can who submit your demonstration on a tracking website – http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/FJMPMF8. If you do not have internet access, you can complete the paper tracking form (available from the Extension Office).

All youth who submit their demonstrations on either the tracking website or with a paper tracking form will be entered in to monthly drawings for a free blizzard from Dairy Queen. Drawings for a free blizzard will happen on the 20th of every month – 2 blizzards will be given away each month. Please note – information must be filled out completely on the website or paper tracking form to have your name entered in for the Free Blizzard drawing.

4-H Clubs will also have a chance for prizes - The club with the highest average of points per member will receive a pizza party for their club. The winning club will be announced at the end of the 2010-2011 4-H year at the Achievement Celebration in 2011. You AND your club can earn points in the following ways:

Club Points

• 100 points will be awarded for each Communication activity completed found in the Club Communication Kit - To receive points, the club leader or adult in charge of the Club Communication Challenge activity must submit a tracking sheet either online at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/H729SFR or turn in a paper copy of the form (available from the Extension Office)
• 150 points will be awarded for each communication-related speaker, tour, or other educational activity your club participates in (Enter in the “Other” Section on the tracking form)
• 200 points will be awarded for a visit to your club meeting by the 4-H PC, who will conduct a demonstration-related activity
• 100 bonus points will be awarded to the club who completes the most Communication activities from the Communication Kit, 75 points for 2nd, 50 points for 3rd
• 300 bonus points will be awarded to the club who has the highest percent of members give demonstrations and track them, 200 for 2nd, 100 for 3rd

Member Points

• 25 points will be awarded for each member who completes a demonstration at a club meeting, PDC Meeting, Ambassador Meeting, etc… and tracks it online at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/FJMPMF8 or with a paper copy
• 100 points will be awarded to youth who do a demonstration/illustrated talk at the County Fair
• 100 points will be awarded to youth who attend the county-wide demonstration workshop on January 8th (Download a registration flyer from the Waseca County Extension Website)

We hope you will chose to participate in this program and also encourage your club to participate as well. If you have any questions, please contact 4-H Program Coordinator, Amy Nelson, at 507-835-0604 or dobbe007@umn.edu.

November 22 Cancellations

Due to the slippery road conditions, the "Holiday Mail for Heroes" Card-Making scheduled for tonight (Monday, November 22) from 4:30 to 6 pm has been cancelled.

The Federation Board Meeting that was scheduled for tonight at 6:30 pm has been re-scheduled to Monday, December 6th at 6 pm at the Extension Office.

Stay warm and safe, everyone!!!

Congratulations!!! (Achievement Celebration Results)

A crowd of close to 200 gathered at the Waseca American Legion on Sunday, November 14, 2010 to celebrate Waseca County 4-H. Many awards were given to youth leaders, adult leaders and community supporters for their accomplishments and support.

Youth awards were given to:

• Andi Zimmerman, Megan Manthey - Minnesota 4-H Key Award
• Erin Larson, Emily Riihl - the “I Dare You” Award for showing emerging youth leadershi
• Sabrina Huebl - Outstanding Horse Project Member Awar
• Katie McNab – Horse Project Service Above Self Awar
• Joseph Barbknecht – Outstanding Club Treasurer
• Kortney Cummins – Outstanding Club Secretary
• Alicia Merritt, Jill Larson – The “Matt Hines Spirit of 4-H” Award

Awards were presented to the youth who had the top livestock interviews at the county fair. Each species awarded a champion in each age division (Junior – 3rd-5th grade; Intermediate – 6th-8th grade; and Senior – 9th grade and up). The top interviews were:

• Beef - Kelsey Haley, Trevor Beckstrand, Jonathon Crouch
• Dairy - Erin Larson, Zachary Janike, Emma Kruger
• Dog - Sarah Manthey, Josse Crouch, Camielle Rykhus
• Goat - Rachel Abraham, Jill Larson
• Horse - Sabrina Huebl, Abby Sankovitz, Emily Hildebrandt
• Lama - Sarah Manthey
• Poultry - Sarah Manthey, Paige Hildebrandt, Emily Hildebrandt
• Rabbit - Katie McNab, Abby Sankovitz, Eric Sankovitz
• Sheep – Erin Larson, Jessica Nafe, TJ Sommers
• Swine – Ryan Strobel, Jarrod Witt, Robert Jewett

The Waldorf Peppy Peppers 4-H club received a $20 cash award for receiving Champion Herdsmanship at the 2010 Waseca County Fair.

1st year members received a certificate for joining 4-H. They included:

• Bits & Spurs - Mikenze Prechel, Jadyn White
• Homegrown Explorers - Taylor Anderson, Theresa Breck, AJ Dickerson, Donovan Dickerson, James Dickerson, Hannah Fessel, Daniel Garman, Hannah Perry, Lydia Perry, Madelyn Perry, Rachel Perry, Andy Roessler, Eliza Sankovitz, Timothea Volkmer
• Iosco Livewires – Theodore Carlson
• Janesville Jacks & Jill's – Tyler Bauman, Hannah Ulmen, Benjamin Walechka
• Palmer Sunbeams - Damien Anderson, Donovan Anderson, Calvin Larson, Carley Larson, Colton Larson
• Riverside Ramblers – Dawson Harty, Jack Schumacher
• Vista Busy Bees – Jessica Stenzel
• Waldorf Peppy Peppers - Kilee Britton, Camden Courtney, Brooke Jahr, Andrew Miller, Walker Miller, Adam Peterson, Ralph Roesler

Many youth were also honored for excellence in 4-H record-keeping. Medals were awarded to youth who received a high score on their project records. They were Shelby Barbknecht, Arin Boese, Kortney Cummins, Bruce Harguth, Emily Hildebrandt, Paige Hildebrandt, Nick Jewison, Josh Johnson, Jill Kalis, Tatiana Krause, Erin Larson, Jill Larson, Nicole Larson, Justin Manthey, Katie Manthey, Megan Manthey, Sarah Manthey, Katie McNab, Alicia Merritt, Alex Merritt, Sadie Mortenson, Ryan Priebe, McKinsy Rew, Bethany Rykhus, Camielle Rykhus, Tanner Schweer, TJ Sommers, Luke Stangler, Jessica Stenzel, Lauren Summers, Lindsay Summers, Austin Witt, Jarrod Witt, and Chelsea Yock.

Cloverbuds, who are 4-H members in grades kindergarten – third grade, also completed 4-H records and were awarded a certificate. They included Grace Abraham, Tyler Bauman, Sophia Berry, Ethan Bluhm, Jorja Bluhm, Theodore Carlson, Camden Courtney, Jacob Crouch, Benjamin Diedrich, Matthew Feldkamp, Hannah Fessel, Noah Fiebiger, Brennon Hoffman, Brooke Jahr, Laura Jahr, Calvin Larson, Jay Lewer, Andrew Morgan, Rachel Perry, Annie Prigge, Eliza Sankovitz, Adam Schlueter, Jack Schumacher, Ethan Strenge, Ben Walechka, and Katey Witt.

Recognition was given to 4-H Camp attendees and counselors. They were Austin Baker, Billy Barbknecht, Emily Barbknecht, Allison Breck, Emily Breck, Zach Clayton, Benjamin Lewer, Katharine Lewer, Emily Hildebrandt, Kristen McKay, Avery Merritt, Austin Nagel, Tyler Raimann, Simon Sommers, TJ Sommers, Chris Stenzel, Luke Stenzel, Zach Stenzel, Kenny Strobel, Matthew Strobel, Aaron Walechka, Jackie Barbknecht, Shelby Barbknecht, Michaela Hansen, Erin Larson, Jill Larson, Tori Raimann, Ben Roycraft, and Andi Zimmerman.

Youth recognized for participating in Arts-In were: Kirsten Brenden, Monica Bye, Abby Eberline, Noah Fiebiger, Jennifer McKay, Marissa Mortenson, Sadie Mortenson, Kristy Possin, Michelle Possin, McKinsey Rew, Aaron Roessler, Emily Riihl, Caroline Scheffert, Kayla Schlaak, Samantha Snyder, Christian Stewart, SaraJo Stewart, Maci Surat, Maclain Tanner, Jadyn White, and Steve Scheffert the director who made the Arts-In event possible.

Receiving photo certificates for their attendance at 4-H leadership retreats were Michaela Hansen, Emily Riihl, Lindsay Summers, Lauren Summers, Marissa Mortenson, Allison Breck, Pete Guse, Erin Larson, Caroline Scheffert, Kristin Spinler, Katie McNab, and Julie Marquardt.

Youth receiving recognition for their contributions to the Waseca County 4-H program as graduating members included Peter Guse, Kelsey Haley, Megan Manthey, Derek Marzahn, Joe McNab, Emily Nelson, Tyler Rew, Ben Roycraft, Colton Schlaak, Ellie Stangler, and Andi Zimmerman.

The Waseca County 4-H Ambassadors are a group of youth in 7th grade and older who serve the 4-H program through assisting at events and promoting 4-H. The Ambassadors contributing the most service hours to 4-H events during the year were recognized with special awards. The ambassador with the most service hours was Erin Larson, who put in 164 hours. The “Rookie of the Year” award for the member in their first year of being an Ambassador went to Amy Beckstrand who put in 89 hours. Rounding out the top earners for service hours were Jill Larson with 156.5 hours, Shelby Barbknecht who had 132 hours, Alicia Merritt with 84.5 hours, Jamie Beckstrand with 78 hours, and Emily Riihl with 77.5 hours.

The 19 Ambassadors did a great job by putting in 1,346 hours of service during the 2009-2010 4-H Year, which is an average of over 70 hours per youth. Others recognized for being members of the Waseca County 4-H Ambassador program were Kortney Cummins, Michaela Hansen, Nick Jewison, Natalie Jewison, Katie Manthey, Julie Marquardt, Tori Raimann, Abby Sankovitz, Caroline Scheffert, Anna Schlaak, Lauren Summers, and Lindsay Summers

Youth new to the Ambassador Program for the 2010-2011 4-H year are Jackie Barbknecht, Trevor Beckstrand, Paige Hildebrandt, Tanyce Krause, Justin Manthey, Sarah Manthey, Kristen McKay, Alex Merritt, McKinsy Rew, and Brady Schumacher.

Adults and community friends of 4-H were also honored. Special awards were given to:

• Lori Weller - 4-H Alumni Award
• Fundraising Committee (Paula Kaupa, ShaLee White, and RaeLynn, Shelby, and Jackie Barbknecht) - Volunteers of the Year
• Steve Scheffert - Distinguished Service Award
• Connors Plumbing & Heating - Friend of 4-H Award

An award was presented for the “4-H Family of the Year.” Receiving this honor were Jim & RaeLynn Barbknecht, Shelby, Jackie, Joseph, Emily, and Billy of Waseca.

First Year Adult Volunteer Certificates of Leadership were awarded to Colleen Carlson, Cherri Neuschwander, and Jeff Neuschwander.

4-H Award of the Silver Clover for 5 years of serving as a volunteer was awarded to Cary Larson, David McNab, Pat McNab, Wes Riihl, Sarah Rykhus, Dale Schweer, and Julie Sommers.

4-H Award of the Gold Clover for 10 years of serving as a volunteer was awarded to Pam Schweer and Holly Walechka

4-H Award of the Pearl Clover for 15 years of serving as a volunteer was awarded to Connie Larson and Monica Meschke.

Recognition was also given to the 2009-2010 4-H Federation Board officers for their service and leadership: Jill Larson - President; Katie McNab - Vice President; Shelby Barbknecht - Secretary; Erin Larson – Youth at Large; Cary Larson – Adult Treasurer; and Tammy Haley, Monica Meschke, Gretchen Sankovitz, and Brenda Harguth - Adult Representatives.

New youth officers were installed for the 2010-2010 year. Leading the Waseca County 4-H Federation this year are: Shelby Barbknecht - President; Erin Larson - Vice President; Emily Riihl – Secretary; Samuel Jewett – Youth Treasurer, and Jackie Barbknecht - Officer at Large. Adult board members are: Cary Larson – Treasurer, Chuck Manthey, RaeLynn Barbknecht, Gretchen Sankovitz, and Brenda Harguth.

“The Purple Ribbon Club” Incentive Program for 4-H clubs awards clubs for participation in county, regional, state, and national 4-H events. Youth members earning recognition for finishing in the “Top 10%” of point earners out of all youth in the club program included McKinsy Rew – 200 points; Jarrod Witt, Abby Sankovitz, Katie McNab, and Benjamin Lewer – 205 points; Andi Zimmerman and Jessica Stenzel – 210 points; Lauren Summers – 215 points; Marissa Mortenson and Katie Manthey – 225 points; Avery Merritt – 255 points; Alex Merritt – 270 points; Caroline Scheffert – 300 points; Michaela Hansen – 310 points; Jackie Barbknecht – 340 points; Travis Beckstrand – 345 points; McKenzie Kaupa – 350 points; Trevor Beckstrand – 355 points; Emily Barbknecht – 375 points; Laura Jahr – 405 points; Billy Barbknecht – 410 points; Emily Riihl – 455 points; Brooke Jahr – 480 points; Jamie Beckstrand – 515 points; Jadyn White – 540 points; Amy Beckstrand – 590 points; Shelby Barbknecht – 605 points; Alicia Merritt – 735 points; and Erin Larson – 765 points. Finishing with the most points earned during the 2009-2010 4-H year was Jill Larson with 890 points.

Adult Volunteers and parents were also recognized for helping clubs earn points. The “Top 10” point earners for adults are Lori Weller – 70 points; Joy Riihl and Brenda Harguth – 85 points; Steve Scheffert – 90 points; Gretchen Sankovitz – 100 points; Cary Larson – 130 points; ShaLee White – 135 points; Marijo Beckstrand – 155 points; Connie Larson – 210 points; and Paula Kaupa – 290 points. Finishing with the most points earned for adults during the 2009-2010 4-H year was RaeLynn Barbknecht with 315 points.

The club named as the 1st place Purple Ribbon Club was the Riverside Ramblers. 2nd Place and a blue ribbon went to the Janesville Jacks & Jills 4-H Club, 3rd Place and a red ribbon went to the Palmer Sunbeams, and 4th place and a white ribbon went to the Vista Busy Bees.

Recognition was given to the community, business and parental support of the 4-H program. Thank you to all who continue to support the Waseca County 4-H Program in making the best better. The program ended with refreshments and a slide show.

2009-2010 Slide Show

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

Re-Enrollment Instructions

It's 4-H enrollment time! We are so glad to have you as 4-H members & 4-H volunteers in Waseca County!

Online Member & Volunteer Re-Enrollment
New this year! All returning 4-H members & volunteers MUST re-enroll online at 4H4ME.com between October 11, 2010 and February 15, 2011. User guides and information are available online at www1.extension.umn.edu/youth/mn4-H/4H4ME/index.html. If you do not have access to the Internet, please contact the County Extension Office.

Important County & State Deadlines

• Re-Enrolling Members: The 4-H re-enrollment deadline is February 15 through the 4H4ME.com website.
• New Members: Youth new to 4-H can join at any time throughout the year at the 4H4ME.com website!
• Project Drop/Add Deadline: The project drop/add deadline is May 15.
• Animal Science ID Deadline: The Animal Science ID forms must be turned in to the Extension Office by February 15 (for market beef) and May 15 (for all others).

*****Important County Information*****
Please note that individual counties and 4-H clubs may have membership fees, meeting attendance recommendations, etc. that are not listed in this letter. Information of this type will be sent to families directly from the county offices.

Project Selection Guide
The Project Selection Guide is available online at http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/youthdevelopment/DA8576.html or to learn more about each project, visit the 4-H website at www1.extension.umn.edu/youth/mn4-H.

Records
Download the forms online at http://www1.extension.umn.edu/youth/mn4-H/projects/youth-records.html or you may request them from the Extension Office. They are also available in Microsoft Word version upon request.

Curriculum Catalog Available
Interested in youth activity guides about your favorite 4-H projects and subjects that interest you? The National 4-H office provides a National 4-H Curriculum catalog. To order 4-H curriculum, a catalog is available online at www.4-hmall.org/curriculum or contact the National 4‑H Supply Service at 301-961-2934.

New Parents/Guardians
We welcome you to volunteer with the 4-H program! As a potential volunteer, we request you complete the MN 4-H Volunteer Application available at http://www1.extension.umn.edu/youth/mn4-H/volunteer/index.html#ApplyNow which allows us to begin the volunteer screening process. If you have any questions regarding the process or the status of your application, please contact the 4-H Regional Support Staff in the Rochster Regional Extension Office at 507-252-6520.

Opportunities in 4-H
Get involved in county, regional and/or state 4-H events, activities and workshops! To learn more, go to:

• www.extension.umn.edu/county/Waseca - 4-H flyers, forms, and the monthly 4-H newsletter are available here
• www.facebook.com/WasecaCounty4H - updated daily with reminders about upcoming events
• http://4hmnwaseca.blogspot.com/ - notices, instructions, fun articles, and recaps of things happening in Waseca County 4-H
• You can also check out the MN 4-H website at www1.extension.umn.edu/youth/mn4-H/
• National 4-H website at www.4-H.org.

To get started with the Reenrollment process please go to 4H4ME.com. Your username and password were sent in a letter from the Rochester Regional Center the first full week in October.

***Please refer to the Quick Version Reference Guide for get started with the reenrollment for 2010/2011. (This was included with the password/user name instruction letter)

If you have any questions please contact your County Extension Office at 507-835-0600 or your Regional Support Staff at 507-252-6520.

4-H2O - The National 4-H Youth Science Day Experiment

4-H is proud to introduce “4-H2O,” the National Science Experiment that will introduce youth across the nation to water quality and its connection to climate change.

Youth in grades 3rd and up are invited to attend the National Science Experiment from 5 to 6 pm at the East Annex in Waseca (on HWY 13, across the street from the courthouse).

Throughout the day across the United States, millions of young people will actively participate in a live demonstration of how carbon dioxide builds up in the atmosphere. They will also learn how increased carbon dioxide levels due to human action have led to global warming, which could raise the earth’s temperature to the point where significant changes will take place. Examples include melting polar ice caps, tsunamis, floods, warmer than normal weather, increases in plant growth, and an impact on water quality. Youth and their families can see how they can help reduce their carbon footprint in their own communities.

To combat a national shortage of young people pursuing science college majors and careers, 4-H National Youth Science Day will spark an early youth interest in science education. Currently, more than five million youth across the nation take part in 4-H science, engineering and technology year-long programming. Through the One Million New Scientists, One Million New Ideas campaign, 4-H has undertaken a bold goal to engage one million new young people in science, engineering and technology programs by the year 2013.

Why is water quality important and why is it important to study now?
Water quality is a term used to describe the chemical, physical and biological characteristics of water.

Today, as our population evolves, we face a growing concern that our sources of clean water are becoming contaminated by warming temperatures, carbon dioxide emissions and dangerous run off. These changes in the water quality affect not only our drinking water supply, but also the natural habitats of aquatic plants, animals and organisms.

Most of both naturally-produced and made-man carbon dioxide is absorbed by the ocean, forming carbonic acid. While some of this CO2 is consumed by organisms in the water during photosynthesis, a small proportion of that remains in the water.

Increased CO2 in the atmosphere has led to decreasing alkalinity of seawater, sparking concern that this may adversely affect organisms living in the water.

4-H offers many projects in which young people can explore science, engineering and technology! For more information, check out http://www.4-h.org/ or the NYSD experiment at www.4-H.org/NYSD!

For information on Science, Engineering, and Technology programs happening in Waseca County 4-H, visit us on the web at:
www.facebook.com/WasecaCounty4H
http://4hmnwaseca.blogspot.com/
http://www.extension.umn.edu/county/Waseca

Frequently Asked Questions about 4-H

What is 4-H?
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship, and life skills. It's about young people making new friends and memories while preparing to be future leaders - from both rural and urban areas! It is a voluntary, informal education program for young people ages 9 through 18.

4-H is America's largest out-of-school education program for boys and girls. It is a program available in every state and many countries.

4-H is youth development. It is people sharing, learning, growing and becoming the best they can be.

4-H is life skills. Through real-life situations, 4-H helps youth develop life skills - communication, citizenship, decision-making, leadership, building relationships with caring adults and community awareness. Youth learn these practical skills through hundreds of projects like wildlife, nutrition, sewing, crafts, wood shop, electricity, computers, science, and many more.

4-H is one of a kind! It provides learning experiences in which youth, with help from parents, interested adults and older youth leaders, grow personally as they develop skills for living. Skills learned through 4-H help youth become better members of their families, communities and world. 4-H participants explore careers and positive leisure-time activities. The 4-H Youth Development program creates an educational environment for positive development of culturally-diverse youth that enables them to reach their fullest potential. 4-H accomplishes its mission through non-informal education.

4-H is family and community-oriented. Parents play a critical role in volunteering with the program to support their children. Work on projects takes place at home, in the yard or around the kitchen table, with guidance from a parent, an older brother or sister, or a neighbor. The 4-H member needs the support and encouragement of a family and growing together through 4-H strengthens the family. 4-H members devote time to community service in a wide variety of projects, ranging from helping the elderly and disabled, to restoring historic sites, to landscaping public buildings to helping preserve their environment.

4-H is open to all. 4-H happens everywhere. It is in the city, suburbs and small towns, on farms and ranches. The 4-H program is open to all who wish to participate without regard to race, creed, gender, marital status, handicaps or disadvantages, economic or ethnic backgrounds.
4-H is flexible. Hundreds of projects and activities provide opportunities for all youth regardless of location, race or economic situation. Project and program requirements can be modified to meet needs and interests.

Today, 4-H involves young people - from the city, from the suburbs, from rural areas, from the farm, and everything in between. 4-H alumni speak with pride about their experience in 4-H - telling how much they gained from making presentations, record keeping, developing leadership, communication skills, practicing the responsibility of citizenship and meeting lifelong friends.

Why do young people like 4-H?
4-H provides a chance to learn new things, develop new skills, travel to new places, experience new situations, make new friends and most importantly have lots of fun.

What do kids do in 4-H?
It’s up to you. You can go to camp, learn to shop wisely, give a demonstration, grow vegetables, hatch an egg, make bread, shadow an adult at work, choose to eat healthy foods, give a speech, cure a ham, or conquer an obstacle course. You can perform in a skit, make a birdhouse, start a business, shear sheep, take pictures, learn about electricity, barbeque chicken, or drive a tractor. You can decorate a room, ride a bike, learn to sew, raise an animal, or protect the environment.
And there’s more! In 4-H, you will work with other young people toward common goals and, if you wish, teaching younger kids. You can build your 4-H activities around your own talents and interests.

Why does 4-H vary from county to county?
Each county in Minnesota has different needs. Local citizens help to identify program initiatives, and Minnesota 4-H staff provides focus, curriculum, and materials to help address those local needs.

Who conducts 4-H?
The Minnesota 4-H program is conducted by the University of Minnesota and its Extension department. County and state programs are directed by Extension staff that educate and support volunteers who work directly with 4-H members. Extension offices are located in almost every county in Minnesota. A county Extension Committee comprised of local residents serves as advisors to Extension staff to coordinate, organize, and plan programming in the unit.
Adult volunteers are also responsible for conducting local 4-H programming, including club meeting experiences, project workshops, and much more.

Who funds 4-H?
University of Minnesota Extension receives funding from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the state of Minnesota, and local county boards. A variety of private donors also fund Extension.

The Waseca County 4-H program is funded mainly by fundraisers including a market livestock auction and operation of a food stand, both during the county fair. Many local businesses, organizations, and individuals generously support Waseca County 4-H through monetary donations. 4-H Clubs in the county acquire their funds through small membership dues, fundraisers, and donations.

Isn’t 4-H just for farm kids?
No! 4-H is for all young people, regardless of where they live, what their backgrounds are or what interests them. Today in Kentucky, lots of 4-H members are from urban and suburban areas and are learning about and participating in many different 4-H project and activities.

Do you have to own an animal to be in 4-H?
No, there are many non-livestock 4-H projects and activities.

What will my child have to do to “join” 4-H?
To join 4-H, an enrollment form is required. These vary county to county, so contact the Waseca County Extension Office via phone (507-835-0600) or email (mnext-waseca@umn.edu) to receive the current enrollment form. Waseca County, like all counties in Minnesota, require that 4-H youth re-enroll each year.

How does my child join a 4-H club?
Information on club meeting times and locations can be requested from the Waseca County Extension Office. The handout with this information will also include contact information for the adult volunteers who lead the club. You can contact the leader to find out when and where their next meeting is. If you have requested an information packet on 4-H from the Waseca County Extension Office, they have also notified clubs in your area that you are interested in joining 4-H, and they may contact you to invite you to their next meeting.

What does it cost to join?
Waseca County 4-H has no membership fees or required uniforms. Clubs, do however, typically collect dues from each member (usually under $5 a member). There is a minimal charge for project manuals and some 4-H activities or events. However, if financial hardship is an issue, the Waseca County 4-H program can help cover costs of activities and events.

How do I learn more once my child joins?
Waseca County 4-H has a monthly newsletter that contains information on upcoming 4-H events and activities that your child can participate in. Once you turn in an enrollment form to the Waseca County Extension Office, you will begin receiving the newsletter.

What is the 4-H club experience like?
4-H clubs determine meeting numbers and amount of time themselves. On average, clubs meet monthly for 1-2 hours each time. 4-H clubs usually participate in different activities during the meeting, including a business meeting, special interest programs, and recreation or social activities. Clubs will often complete community service projects at meeting times also. Clubs may have a little business to conduct, may work on their projects for a while, and then play a game or two. Sometimes the whole meeting is devoted to one topic or recreation. Some clubs also do project activities where they learn about and do activities related to a 4-H project.

What are 4-H projects?
4-H projects are challenging, but practical, planned courses of study with learning experiences centered on a specific subject. Hands-on, learn-by-doing involvement is the most important aspect of a project. Most projects have manuals or project books that assist the 4-H member in the completion of the project. These manuals are age appropriate and can be tailored to meet younger or older expectations. The project manual can be used by the family in learning fundamental skills and/or obtaining critical knowledge pertaining to the project.
Projects vary in length to completion. Some 4-H projects produce a tangible product upon completion. Most projects can be entered in the county fair as exhibits. County fair exhibits must be completed within that program year since the previous fair.

How does my child DO a 4-H project?
Most often, 4-H member work on projects at home with parents, siblings and other family or community members who can help them with their project. Waseca County 4-H offers project activities to learn about and complete a 4-H project.

Depending on the specific project there may be a project club to join. Project groups may meet throughout the year to work on a specific project depending on the time of year and the event surrounding the project (i.e. sewing). Waseca County 4-H is looking for adult volunteers who are willing to take the leadership of coordinating project clubs.

Should 4-H members do their own work?
Yes, with help. Members are expected to select at least one project and complete one or more learning experiences related to the project during the year. 4-H is a "learn by doing" program. Leaders, junior leaders, and parents may tell or show members how, but members are expected to learn to do things themselves.

Are projects done individually or as a group?
Both. It varies among projects and among clubs. Some projects, like breads or visual arts, are more fun done as a group. Others, like making a dress or growing a garden, can be done individually. Some clubs have several project leaders and do specific project work at club meetings while others rely on parents and others to help members individually.

What does a 4-H project cost?
It varies. Members are responsible for the cost of supplies for projects. Some projects might use supplies from around the house while others might invest hundreds of dollars in their project. The cost of the project should be realistic to the family situation.

What is an exhibit?
An exhibit is an object or display designed to show something that the members have accomplished. Ideally it motivates members to learn and to have fun in a 4-H project. An exhibit is not an end in itself nor does it measure all the learning that takes place in a project. Self-recognition and self-satisfaction for having completed a project are important rewards. A ribbon is only one measure of success.

What is involved in exhibiting a fair project?
The middle of May, the Extension Office will send out “County Fair Registration Forms” and a County Fair 4-H Premium Book to each family enrolled in 4-H. There are codes for each project in the Premium Book, so you look to see what rules and requirements there are for each exhibit you want to bring and enter the proper code on your Registration Form. The registration forms are due back to the County Extension Office by June 15th at 4:30 pm.

• Livestock Projects - If you are showing livestock, you would house your animal at the fair during fair week and are responsible for keeping your animal and area in the barn clean. Members work with other members of the club to keep their club’s area clean and presentable to the public. Each livestock area also has their own show that is held during the county fair, so you will get to show your animal off to the judge and receive a ribbon. And don’t forget showmanship! That is the most important part of exhibiting an animal – the showmanship class is judged on how much you know about your animal and how well you show it. This is a fantastic opportunity for growth and learning and should not be overlooked. On Wednesday of fair week, you would also complete a “Livestock Interview” which gives you the chance to visit with a knowledgeable adult and share your knowledge of your livestock project with him or her. More details about exhibiting at the County Fair are provided in the spring and summer. Be sure you read your 4-H Newsletter and talk to the Livestock Superintendent’s (people in charge of a livestock project area) for more information.
  
• Non-Livestock Projects – If you are bringing a non-livestock exhibit/s to the fair, you bring them to the 4-H Building the Tuesday of fair week (between 10 am and 4 pm) and talk to a judge about your project. The judges, who are caring and knowledgeable adults, will ask you questions and give you advice on how you can learn more and grow more in your project. You will receive a ribbon for your projects. The projects stay at the fair during the whole week in the 4-H Building. If you win a champion or reserve champion award you come to an Awards Ceremony of Sunday during the fair to receive special recognition. More details about exhibiting at the County Fair are provided in the spring and summer. Be sure you read your 4-H Newsletter and talk to your club leaders and other members in your club for more information.
  

What do the 4-H ribbon colors mean?
The Minnesota 4-H program awards ribbons based on the Danish System. This means that in each 4-H competition, 4-H members are graded based on set standards. All exhibits, presentations, etc. receive a ribbon based on where they fall on the standard scale. More than one color of a ribbon may be awarded in a category or area. In other words, several 4-H members may receive blue ribbons within the same category. The ribbon colors awarded are purple, blue, red and white. The blue, red and white ribbons do not designate first, second and third. They represent the level of achievement.

Blue ribbons are awarded to 4-H’ers who exhibit outstanding work in the area or presentation by mastering a skill, increasing their knowledge and/or showing pride in workmanship and quality based on their age level.

Red ribbons are awarded to 4-H’ers whose project or exhibition is not as polished as those of the blue level. The 4-H’er may have learned a skill but not yet mastered it completely. Information may not be complete or accurate.

White ribbons are awarded to 4-H’ers whose project(s) may be incomplete or lacking in mastery of the skill.

Purple ribbons are awarded to denote the champion in a presentation or exhibit. The purple or champion ribbon is awarded to the one 4-H’er whose skills, knowledge or mastery has surpassed all others in the category/division.

Some events award green or participation ribbons to all participants. This is usually done for Cloverbuds (youth in grades K-2nd) level where competition is not developmentally appropriate and is highly discouraged.

What is expected of parents?
Children need parental encouragement to get them started in 4-H and to keep them involved in the program in later years. Parents can help by:

• Sharing - provide encouragement and take interest in 4-H projects and activities. Listen, look, and offer suggestions, but avoid the temptation to "take over" and do things. Children learn by their mistakes as well as successes.
• Preparing - assist by helping children understand the value of doing projects, having duties in the club, and following through on responsibilities as expected by others.
• Being there - Children gain more from 4-H by attending meetings regularly and getting involved in 4-H activities. Parents are welcome at meetings and are encouraged to stay and observe. Lend a hand whenever possible. However, remember that 4-H clubs are for kids.
• Caring - arrange to participate whenever possible. Parents' presence shows the child that what he or she is doing is very important.

4-H is a family program. As a parent, your role will be to support, encourage, praise and assist (without doing it for them). Assisting your 4-H’er in selecting the appropriate projects is the first step in assuring a successful 4-H experience. Parents are encouraged to take a leadership role in the 4-H program by offering expertise in a certain area, serving as a volunteer leader and/or serving as a resource. 4-H’ers will benefit at a higher level when the family takes an active role in the program.

What are 4-H Cloverbuds?
4-H Cloverbuds is a program designed for youth and their families to explore the 4-H program through activities tailored specifically for their ages and developmental stages. The primary purpose of the U of MN Extension 4-H Cloverbud program is to support the positive development of children as they explore the world, discover possibilities, build self-esteem, and practice the basic social skills which will be the basis for a future where they will become competent, caring and contributing citizens.
Youth in grades K-2nd will join 4-H and choose to join one of the same clubs that an older youth would join. The youth will automatically be considered a Cloverbud. At 3rd grade, Cloverbuds will become a regular 4-H member. However, they may choose to stay in Cloverbuds until they start 4th grade, abiding by Cloverbud policy until they begin as regular 4-H members. The 4-H Clubs in Waseca County welcome their Cloverbud members - some have activities at their meetings specifically designed for the Cloverbud youth. Cloverbuds are also encouraged to become active on the county level and participate in the monthly county-wide Cloverbud activities and Saturday Morning Adventure programs.

I still have questions. Whom can i contact?
Waseca County 4-H Staff is happy to answer any questions you have about 4-H.

• Stop in – The Extension Office is located in the former Public Health building on the county fairgrounds. Our address is 900 3rd St NE in Waseca.
• Call – Our phone number is 507-835-0600
• Email – The general email address for Waseca County Extension is mnext-waseca@umn.edu.

Cheryl Clevenger is Extension’s Support Staff and can be reached at cleve065@umn.edu.

Amy Nelson is the Waseca County 4-H Program Coordinator and can be reached at dobbe007@umn.edu.

The Rochester Regional Extension Office can also answer 4-H related questions at 507-280-2863 or 888-241-4536. Sue Nielsen is the Regional Support Staff – her email is niels204@umn.edu. Sharon Davis is the Extension Educator for 4-H and oversees programming in five counties. Her email is davis051@umn.edu.

This FAQ guide was adapted from http://www.ca.uky.edu/agcollege/4h/parents/faqs/index.htm
by Amy (Dobberstein) Nelson, Waseca County 4-H Program Coordinator – September 2009.

The University of Minnesota Extension is an equal opportunity employer and educator.

2010 Sheep & Goat Weigh-In/Check-In Schedule

2010 Sheep & Goat Weigh-In/Check-In - Wednesday – July 14, 2010 – 12 NOON

BE READY AT YOUR PENS AT NOON – WE WILL CALL YOUR NAME OFF WHEN IT’S YOUR FAMILY’S TURN.

If you are not ready when it is your turn, you’ll be moved to the end of check-in.

SHEEP
Yock - Bits & Spurs
Bice - Homegrown Explorers
Fessel - Homegrown Explorers
Berry - Janesville Jacks & Jill's
Schlueter - Janesville Jack's & Jill's
Scheffert - Palmer Sunbeams
Barbknecht - Riverside Ramblers
Kaupa - Riverside Ramblers
Harty - Riverside Ramblers
Sommers - Riverside Ramblers
Boese - Vista Busy Bees
Hansen - Vista Busy Bees
Jewett/Johnson - Vista Busy Bees
Krause - Vista Busy Bees
Larson - Vista Busy Bees
Nafe - Vista Busy Bees
Riihl - Vista Busy Bees
Rykhus - Vista Busy Bees
Smith - Vista Busy Bees

GOATS
Sankovitz - Homegrown Explorers
Carlson - Iosco Livewires
Manthey - Janesville Jacks & Jills
Witt - Janesville Jacks & Jills
Abraham - Vista Busy Bees
Kalis - Vista Busy Bees
Larson - Vista Busy Bees
Strenge - Vista Busy Bees
Prigge - Vista Busy Bees
Riihl - Vista Busy Bees
Stenzel - Vista Busy Bees
Veroeven - Member at Large

2010 Wash Rack Clean-Up Schedule

Waseca County 4-H 2010 - Wash Rack Clean-Up Schedule

Your club is responsible for making sure the wash racks are clean, free of manure and wash equipment, and picked up at its designated time/s:

• Wednesday p.m. – Vista Busy Bees
• Thursday a.m. – Waldorf Peppy Peppers
• Thursday p.m. - Bits & Spurs
• Friday a.m. – Clover Clan, Members at Large
• Friday p.m. - Homegrown Explorers
• Saturday a.m. - Iosco Livewires, Palmer Sunbeams
• Saturday p.m. – Janesville Jack’s & Jill’s
• Sunday a.m. – Riverside Ramblers

Clubs need to be sure all wash racks are clean during their time slot!

July Clover Update

July, 2010

Waseca County Upcoming Events

• 7/6 – Ambie Work Day, 9 am to 4 pm, 4-H Building
• 7/1 – Make-up showing of “Horses, Kids, & Ethics” Video, 6:30 pm, Extension Office
• 7/1 – Livestock Superintendent’s Meeting, 7 pm, Extension Office
• 7/6 – Ambie Work Day, 9 am to 4 pm, 4-H Building
• 7/6 – Mandatory Livestock Exhibitor’s Meeting, 6 pm, 4-H Building (Barn Set-Up to follow)
• 7/6 – 4-H Building Set-Up, 7 to 9 pm
• 7/7 – Ambie Work Day, 1 pm to 6 pm, 4-H Building
• 7/7 – 4-H Building Set-Up, 6 to 8 pm
• 7/7 – Judge’s Assistants Training, 8 pm, 4-H Building
• 7/8 – Fashion Review and Food Review Judging, 1 pm, 4-H Building
• 7/10 – Dog Obedience, Rally, and Showmanship Show, 9 am, Fairgrounds
• 7/12 – Horse Show, 9 am, Outdoor Arena
• 7/13 – General Project Judging, 10 am to 4 pm, 4-H Building
• 7/13 – Dog Agility Show, 5 pm, Hartley Outdoor Arena
• 7/14 to 7/18 – Waseca County Fair!
• 7/26 – State Fair Exhibitor’s Meeting, 7 pm, East Annex

You are Invited To A Poultry Workshop in Mower County On Saturday, July 10 at 9:00 am Mower County Fairgrounds in front of Poultry Barn or 4-H Building. We will demonstrate how to wash your birds for fair, practice showmanship, selecting birds for show and bird testing. You may bring birds to practice showmanship and receive help in selecting birds for show. If you need your birds tested for typhoid-pullorium (this only needs to be done if you hatched your own birds. If you received your birds from a hatchery, contact them for the heath papers.), please call Richard or Margaret at 567-2009 or e-mail them at rmandree@frontiernet.net as soon as possible, we need to make sure we have enough on hand for testing. Also please let us know if you are attending the workshop to give us an idea of how
many are coming.

Rochester West Regional Ag Career Tour Days
Cost - $20 each tour
Come and spend the day with us as we tour around Southern MN to learn about various Agricultural Career opportunities right here in our own back yard! Each tour will be all day long. Busing, lunch, and fun will be provided!

Trucks, Tractors, and Transportation – July 29 - Hosted by Freeborn County
You will have an opportunity to tour Poet (ethanol plant), Erlandson Implement, Pro
Trucking & Pro Manufacturing, with a stop at the Seed House in Albert Lea. Contact your local Extension Office to sign up today! All youth completed grade 6 and up are welcome!

Rounds of Applause …

• Thank you to all the Waseca County 4-H members who attended camp, both as counselors and campers! We had great representation at both camps. 4-H Camp is an educational and fun experience for everyone involved!
• Thank you to everyone who attended the Painting Sessions and helped get a fresh coat of paint on part of the wall in the 4-H Building – it looks great!!
• The “Arts-In” crew has already began work on this year’s performance, “TV Land 2010”. Be sure to stop in at the fair during one of their performances to see and hear some of your favorite TV theme show songs and catchy commercial jingles. Thank you to the many volunteers and parents helping out with this production, also!

County Fair Positions Available We need MANY people to make the fair a success. Let Amy know if you would like more information on any of these jobs! Here are positions that are available:

• Food Stand Cashiers - Cashiers are responsible for completing money transactions in the Food Stand. They are paid $8.00 an hour and will usually have a 3-5 hour shift each day of the fair.
• Show Ring Manager - The show ring manager is in charge of setting up the show ring, in the 4-H Livestock Arena, for all of the 4-H shows and the Blue Ribbon Auction at the county fair. The show ring manager will be paid $100 if all responsibilities are fulfilled.
• Overnight Building Chaperones - Oversee youth staying overnight on the fairgrounds and assure that the code of conduct and risk management polices are being adhered to

Waseca County 4-H Online Receive updates about Waseca County 4-H by logging on to the Waseca County 4-H Blog. The blog is located at http://4hmnwaseca.blogspot.com/. If you are on Facebook, become a fan of Waseca County 4-H! The page is updated daily. Both websites are a great way to stay up-to-date on happenings in Waseca County 4-H.

Livestock Superintendent’s Meeting Livestock Superintendent’s should attend a County Fair meeting on Thursday, July 1st at 7 pm at the Extension Office. Please let Amy know if you won’t be able to attend.

MANDATORY Livestock Exhibitor’s Meeting – July 6 All livestock exhibitors and a parent are expected to attend an important and mandatory meeting on Tuesday, July 6th at 6 pm in the 4-H Building. If you are exhibiting beef, dairy, goat, horse, sheep, swine, poultry, and/or rabbit – you must attend! If you can not attend, a parent/guardian must attend in your place. If no one in your family can attend, it is YOUR responsibility to contact the superintendent in the species you are showing and find out the information. The first set of herdsmanship scores are given based on attendance at this meeting.

“Shell Out or Show” Contest during the County Fair The “Shell Out or Show” is a special Showmanship contest during the Waseca County Fair on Sunday, July 18 following the “Dress Your Livestock” Contest (12:30 pm). This contest is a fundraiser for the Waseca County 4H Ambassadors to help cover the costs of a Summer Outing.

• Anyone at the Waseca County Fair can nominate a person over the age of 16 to participate in the “Shell Out or Show” Showmanship contest. To nominate someone, go the 4-H Office and pay $1 per nomination. You will then receive a “You’ve Been Nominated” Slip to give to the person you’ve nominated – this slip will explain details of the contest.
• The person you nominate must be on the Fairgrounds when you nominate him/her.
• If the person who is nominated wishes to decline participation in the “Shell Out or Show” Showmanship Contest, they must pay $2 to have their name taken off the list of participants. The $2 must be brought to the 4-H Office.
• Nominations will be accepted starting Tuesday, July 13 at 10 am until Saturday, July 17 at 6 pm. At 6 pm on Saturday, if there are more than 6 people who still have their name in the nomination pool we will randomly draw 6 people from the pool to participate in Sunday’s contest.
• The drawing for the 4 of out of 7 species (beef, dairy, goat, poultry, rabbit, sheep, and swine) that will be shown at Sunday’s Showmanship contest will be on Saturday at 6 pm also.
• The Ambassadors will notify the people who have been chosen to participate. Notification will happen after 6 pm on Saturday.
• The showmanship portion is on Sunday, July 18 in the Show Arena. It will follow the Dress Your Livestock contest (12:30 pm.)
• Showmanship participants will have the chance to win prizes … The prizes may not be exciting, either!

Summer Adventures Summer Adventures in Waseca County 4-H will be held at the following dates and times this summer:

• Tuesday, August 3rd – “Beat the Heat” 8 am to 11 am – New Richland City Park
• Tuesday, August 3rd – “Beat the Heat” 1 pm to 4:30 pm – Janesville City Park
• Tuesday, August 10th – “Beat the Heat” 8 am to 11 am – 4-H Building

Registration forms are available online or at the Extension Office.

Purple Ribbon Club Point Updates As of June 28, 2010, points for the “Purple Ribbon Club” contest are as follows –

• Bits & Spurs average points per member – 126.43 points
• Clover Clan average points per member – 124.17 points
• Homegrown Explorers average points per member – 64.46 points
• Iosco Livewires average points per member – 70.83 points
• Janesville Jacks & Jill’s average points per member – 154.50 points
• Palmer Sunbeams average points per member – 187.62 points
• Riverside Ramblers average points per member – 236 points
• Vista Busy Bees average points per member – 130.49 points
• Waldorf Peppy Peppers average points per member – 162.98 points

If you would like to earn some points for your club, here is a list of things coming up that earn points:

• The club exhibited a Community Pride Project (100 points)
• The club exhibited a Club Banner. (100 points)
• The club exhibited a Club Booth. (100 points)
• The club exhibited a Club Display (100 points)
• The club exhibited a Club Scrapbook. (100 points)
• The club received a Grand or Reserve Champion Herdsmanship Award. (25 points per specie Champion, 20 for Reserve specie, 100 for Grand Overall, 75 for Reserve Overall)
• The club received a Decorator Award (1st Place - 100 points; 2nd place - 75; 3rd place - 50)
• The club checked out a Project in a Box or other education activity from the Extension Office. (Points only awarded if an evaluation is turned back in with the box - 100 pts per activity)
• The club held at least nine regular meetings. (100 points)
• New Members enrolled (100 points per new member)
• New Leaders enrolled (50 points per leader)
• The 4-H Program Coordinator visits your club meeting (100 points per club)
• For each newspaper article/picture about a club activity turned in to Extension Office (100 points per clipping/story/picture)
• Secretary’s Book completed and turned in to the Extension Office by October 1st, 2010 (100 points)
• Treasurer’s Book completed and turned in to the Extension Office by October 1st, 2010 (100 points)
• For each Club Reporter Card turned in to the Extension Office (100 points per card)
• For each county fair Demonstration (15 points per demonstrator)
• For each club member who participates in Arts-In. (15 points)
• For each youth (including Cloverbuds) exhibiting at the County Fair in the 4-H Program. (15 points)
• For each club member who participates in the Blue Ribbon Market Livestock Auction (15 points)
• For each club member who participates in the Dress Your Livestock Contest (15 points per youth)
• For each youth participating in the county Fashion Review (15 points per youth)
• For each youth participating in the county Food Review (15 points per youth)
• For each club representative at Record Judging. (15 points per representative)
• For each youth (including Cloverbuds) who turned in records for Record Judging. (15 points)
• For each youth (from Record Judging participants) who received a medal. (15 points)
• For each club member at an Adventure or Day Camp (15 points)
• Percentage of Grand and Reserve Champion exhibited by club members, based on # of club exhibits (15 points: 1 - 20%, 25 points: 21% - 40%, 50 points: 41% - 60%, 100 points: 61% - 80%; 150 points: 81%-100%)
• For each youth exhibiting at the State Fair (25 points per member per exhibit – includes judging teams, demonstrations, Arts-In, Share the Fun, livestock exhibits, and non-livestock exhibits)
• For each youth participating at the State Horse Show (includes judging teams, demos, etc...) (25 points)
• For each youth participating at the State Dog Show. (25 points)
• For each club member who participates in State Arts-In. (100 points)
• 25 points for the following paperwork turned in – Food Stand Shift Schedules turned in by July 6; Judging Day Volunteers form turned in by July 6
• 100 bonus points for basket entered in the Silent Auction during County Fair

Dorothy wants you to know…
Dear 4-H youth, families and volunteers,
The new 4-H at the Minnesota State Fair web pages are live! Here are some things we’ve added to keep you informed and involved:

State Fair Resources Pages - As families prepare for the State Fair, they will find all the forms they need for participation, as well as the general information such as chaperones and accommodation. Volunteers should consult the site for the latest information on quotas, Arts-in encampments and rehearsal schedules (when they become available) and policies when needed.
As the fair approaches, consult the section “Preparing for the Fair”. These pages contain all the forms and information you will need for taking part. While the fair is on, consult the section called “Participating in the State Fair”. In cases where late-breaking changes have been made, the form will be marked as “Updated” with a date.

Results Page - Once results begin to roll in, they will be posted on the results page. You can also look up last year’s results if you wish.

Another new feature will be a “What's Happening at the Fair”, with daily 4-H highlights from the Minnesota State Fair. If you haven't already gone to look, please explore: http://www1.extension.umn.edu/youth/mn4-h/state-fair/
If you have any questions, please contact Karen Nelson at 1-612-624-8197 or nelso367@umn.edu.

4-H Horse Project Page
We've also launched the new 4-H Horse Project Page. Highlights include the Minnesota State Horse Show event, horse project resources, the project rulebook, training manual and the association library to name a few. Entry forms, rules and requirements and the handbook for the Minnesota State Horse Show event are located here as well. Take a look at the Horse Project Page: http://z.umn.edu/horse - If you have any questions, please contact Karen Nelson at 1-612-624-8197 or nelso367@umn.edu.

Dorothy Freeman Receives Epsilon Sigma Phi Ruby Recognition Award
Dorothy McCargo Freeman, Ph.D., Associate Director for the Center for Youth Development and State 4-H Program Leader, has been selected to receive the Epsilon Sigma Phi - National Distinguished Ruby Recognition for 2010. The Ruby Recognition is the most prestigious award presented by Epsilon Sigma Phi, a national member organization for Extension professionals that provides development and educational opportunities. Ruby Recognition recipients are honored for outstanding thinking, performance, and leadership in Extension and are chosen for making highly significant contributions on the state, regional, national, and (when applicable)international Extension scenes in a variety of ways and over their career. Under Dorothy’s tenure in Minnesota, the 4-H Club Program has increased by 38% over five years. Dorothy also led a statewide 4-H effort in Virginia to reach at risk youth, which resulted in a proactive approach to engage non-traditional audiences in 4-H. Her leadership has expanded beyond Virginia and Minnesota, positively influencing the 4-H Youth Development program within the North Central Region and across the nation. Dorothy's passion for educating young people and promoting positive youth development has been the cornerstone of her professional career in Extension. Previous recipients from the University of Minnesota Extension include: T.A. Erickson, Minnesota's first State 4-H Leader (1953); Roland Abraham, Extension Director and author (1968); and Patrick J. Borich, Extension Dean and Director (1991). As the national honoree, Dorothy will present the keynote address during the Ruby Recognition luncheon at
the ESP National Conference in Jackson, Wyoming, October 12-15, 2010. Congratulations to Dorothy for being recognized for her impressive accomplishments!

LQA&E Policy
All youth participating as a State Fair livestock exhibitor in beef, dairy, sheep, swine, poultry, rabbits, meat and dairy goat and lama must have completed a Livestock Quality Assurance and Ethics workshop. Certification is good for three Fair seasons. The level of training required is determined by the grade of the youth at the time the training takes place. Note: Since 2006, pre-State Fair age 4-Hers are recommended to be certified. Some counties do, however,
require certification of pre-State Fair age 4-Hers for participation at the county fair. It should be recognized that counties policies might be stricter than this state policy.
Please contact your local extension office or visit http://z.umn.edu/statelqae for a training near you.

MN Lamb & Wool Producers Provide Demo Opportunity at State Fair
State Fair 4-H exhibitors can earn cash at this year’s Minnesota State Fair! The Minnesota Lamb and Wool Producers Junior Association will be awarding sixteen $25 scholarships to 4-H sheep exhibitors who give a sheep-related demonstration at the State Fair Baa Booth. Demonstration may use a live sheep (showing how to shear, fit, show, etc.) or on a poster board (explaining different breed, diseases, etc.). Demonstrations can be given during livestock or general encampment. For more information, send your name, email address, and cell phone/home phone number to MercedesL_09@hotmail.com.

North Central Region 4-H Volunteer Forum - Registration Due August 15
October 7- 10, 2010 - East Lansing, Michigan
“Early Bird” registrations are being taken now to register for the North Central Region 4-H Volunteer Forum, being held in Michigan October 7-10, 2010. The link below will take you to the website where you can access the registration booklet and the on-line registration form. Participants can pay on line with a credit card. Those who prefer can also print off the registration form at the back of the book and mail it in with a check. http://web1.msue.msu.edu/4h/ncr4hvf/index.html The Minnesota 4-H Adult Volunteer Association is providing a $100 scholarship for Minnesota 4-H volunteers attending following the forum.

New Curriculum Training
The 2010 New Curriculum Training will be held on Saturday, November 20, 2010 at St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN. For more information: http://z.umn.edu/4hcurriculum.

2011 Minnesota 4-H Adult Volunteer Forum in Willmar!
The 2011 M4-HAVA forum will be held on February 18-20 at the Holiday Inn Conference Center in Willmar. This is an energizing experience and open to all 4-H youth and adults.

State Calendar
July 2-10 Citizenship Washington Focus
August 25-29 MN State Fair Livestock Encampment
August 26-Sept 6 MN State Fair
September 10-12 State Shoot
September 17-20 State Horse Show
September 25-26 State Dog Show
September 26-29 National 4-H Dairy Conference
October 7-10 North Central Region 4-H Volunteer Forum
November 20 New Curriculum Training

The University of Minnesota Extension is an equal opportunity educator and employer. This material is available in alternative formats upon request. Direct requests to 612-624-2116.

Horse Project Updates

Here is some IMPORTANT horse-related information for you to know.

• HORSE PDC MEETING – There is a required PDC meeting set for Thursday night, 6:30 pm (July 1), at the Fairgrounds. It is the final PDC meeting before fair, and necessary that you attend for information regarding clinics, stalling information, show day information, and other items.
• Make-Up Ethics Video Showing – If you have not watched the “Horses, Kids, and Ethics” video this year, the final make-up showing of the video will be Thursday night, July 1st, at 6 pm at the Extension Office (note time change.) Remember this is a requirement to exhibiting at the County Fair.
• Games Clinic - Tomorrow (June 30) is the Games Clinic with Cassie Sprenger – It runs from 11 am to 2 pm. The cost is $35 dollars due to Cassie at the time of the clinic. And I was just going to have each member pay Cassie directly. Its a 4 hour clinic from 11-2 with a 15-20 minute break mid way through. Lunch-snack on your own.
• Achievement Books – Remember your achievement books need to be signed BEFORE Show Day – there is only one week left to get this taken care of. We will NOT sign off on them on Show Day. Authorized signers are Julie Keane or Kim Yock.
• Scholarships for Clinics – Every horse project member is eligible for a $50 reimbursement scholarship after a clinic. The scholarship can be claimed only once in a 4-H year (October 1 – September 30). In order to receive your scholarship, you must complete the application and return it and a copy of your receipt from the clinic.
• Clinic on July 5th & 6th – Pat McNab has been organizing a clinic for July 5th & 6th. More information will be given at the PDC meeting, or you can contact Pat.
• Stalling Information – If you have not received your stall card for the fair from the Extension Office, please contact Amy asap. They are due by July 6th. Remember, you must enclose a check for $50 as a deposit on your stall. The check will be given back when you assist with either stall set-up or take-down.

Please spread the word to any horse project families who may have been missed on the email.

See you Thursday night – 6 pm for the video (Extension Office), 6:30 pm for the PDC meeting (By outdoor arena).

2010 4-H Camp

2010 4-H Camp

Check out the closing slide show from 4-H Camp - June 23-June 25! What a GREAT time it was!!

Important Updates ...

Here are some important Waseca County 4-H updates for you:

There will be NO “Prep Session” tonight (June 22nd) at 5:30 pm in the 4-H Building. There will also be NO painting tonight – we will be painting on Saturday, June 26, starting at 10 am instead.

Summer Adventures – Don’t forget to register for our fun summer adventures! Registration brochures are posted online or available from the Extension Office.

4-H Camp – If you attended 4-H Camp (or will be attending 4-H Camp Wed – Friday) here is a reminder on how you can get your camp reimbursement scholarship:

• Attend the Waseca County 4-H Federation meeting on Monday, June 28 at 6 pm at the 4-H Building. The camp attendees will lead the group in a camp song – come with ideas of what song you want to sing. Each family should bring a dish to share – beverages, silverware, utensils, and napkins will be provided.
• If you can’t attend the meeting, you can write a brief article on the things you did and learned at camp, or else make a scrapbook page or poster also telling what you did and learned at camp. If you choose to do the article, poster, or scrapbook page, please turn those in to the Extension Office by July 6th.
• Call Amy with questions – 507-835-0604.

Arts-In – This year’s Arts-In theme is “TV Land” and will perform several TV show theme songs. It was difficult to find practice times that everyone could make so more practices were scheduled knowing that some people will miss some. However everyone who wants to be in the show must be at the first practice or make sure you let director Steve Scheffert (507-835-3951, 507-461-5331, Back40ty@gmail.com) know before the first practice. Friends are welcome and you don’t have to be in 4-H to be in Arts-In. Here is the practice schedule - all practices are at the 4-H building from 8:30am to 10:30am (except the last one)

• Friday, June 25 First practice
• Monday, June 28
• Tuesday, June 29
• Wednesday, June 30
• Thursday, July 1
• Friday, July 2
• Tuesday, July 6
• Wednesday, July 7
• Friday, July 9
• Tuesday, July 13 from 8am-10am (dress rehearsal)

Silent Auction – We will be having a Silent Auction during the 2010 County Fair instead of the Dollar Auction. Each club is asked to provide a basket for the Silent Auction. Baskets should be brought to the Extension Office/4-H Building by Monday, July 12th at 5 pm. The basket can be any theme you would like – you can also put as many baskets on the auction as you wish. Clubs will receive 100% of the proceeds from their basket. Bidding for the Silent Auction begins Tuesday, July 13th at 10 am and will end at 2 pm on Sunday, July 18th. Winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony at 3:15 pm on Sunday, July 18th.

Federation Picnic – EVERY 4-H family is invited to attend the 4-H Picnic on Monday, June 28th at 6 pm in the 4-H Building. Bring a dish to pass – beverage, silverware, plates, and napkins will be provided. (Federation Board meeting to follow the picnic)

Livestock Superintendent’s Meeting is scheduled for July 1st at 7 pm at the Extension Office. All livestock superintendents should attend!!! We’ll be covering important county fair information.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Subject to change – refer to the Waseca County 4-H Blog, Facebook Page, or Extension Website for up-to-date information

• June 22 – Recycling Rendezvous Summer Adventure, 1-4:30, 4-H Building
• June 23-25 – Youth Camp at Camp Patterson
• June 24 – Horse PDC Meeting, Fairgrounds
• June 26 – Painting in the 4-H Building, 10 am
• June 28 – Federation Picnic, 6 pm, 4-H Building
• June 28 – Federation Board Meeting after Picnic, 4-H Building
• June 29 – Prep & Paint Night, 5:30, 4-H Building
• July 1 – Make-up showing of required “Horses, Kids, & Ethics” Video for horse project members, 6:30 pm, Extension Office
• July 1 – Livestock Superintendent Meeting, 7 pm, Extension Office
• July 6 – Ambassador Work Day, 9 am to 4 pm, 4-H Building
• July 6 – Mandatory Livestock Exhibitors Meeting, 6 pm, 4-H Building (Barn Set-Up to follow)
• July 6 – 4-H Building Set-Up, 7 to 9 pm, 4-H Building
• July 7 – Ambassador Work Day, 1 pm to 6 pm, 4-H Building
• July 7 – 4-H Building Set-Up, 6 to 8 pm, 4-H Building
• July 7 – Entry Day Volunteer Meeting, 8 pm, 4-H Building
• July 8 – Food Review, Fashion Review Judging, 1 pm, 4-H Building
• July 10 – Dog Show (Showmanship, Obedience, Rally ), 9 am, Fairgrounds
• July 12 – Horse Show, 9 am, Outdoor Arena
• July 13 – General Project Judging, 10 am to 4 pm, 4-H Building
• July 14 – July 18 – 2010 Waseca County Fair!

Welcome, Kristen!!!

Our 2010 Summer Intern is here! We would like to welcome Kristin Spinler to our Waseca County 4-H staff for the summer - Kristin started her duties on June 1st and will be with us through the middle of August. Her duties include planning day camps, assisting with County Fair duties, helping at Arts-In, and much more! Here is what Kristin has to say ...

Hello! My name is Kristin Spinler I am currently a junior at South Dakota State University majoring in Agricultural Education with an Animal Science minor. I was a Steele County 4-H member for twelve years, where I participated in the Poultry, Goats, Swine, Crops, Crafts, Food and Nutrition projects and I was also a Club Officer (many times.) I live on a primarily cash crop farm, but we have goats, pigs, calves, and chickens as 4-H projects. In my spare time I love spending time outdoors and hanging out with friends and family. Below are some interesting facts about me!

• I can snap my toes
• I think Boer Goats are the cutest animals alive
• My favorite food is Pasta
• I push the snooze button at least 4 times in the morning
• I drive a Ford Taurus (aka the Tortoise)
• My favorite movie is "Love and Basketball"
• I have a Waseca phone number, I have a Morristown address, and my house is in the Medford School District

I am really excited to be working with Waseca County 4-H this summer! I look forward to meeting you all!!!

1st Annual Spring Fundraiser a HUGE Success! THANK YOU!

I would like to take a moment to thank the many people who helped out with and participated in Waseca County 4-H’s Spring Fundraiser on May 15, at the 4-H Building on the Waseca County Fairgrounds.

Thank you to the 4-H Fundraising Committee of Paula Kaupa, Raelynn Barbknecht, Shelby Barbknecht, Jackie Barbknecht, and ShaLee White. Without their creativity, organization, and dedication, the fundraiser wouldn’t have happened. Credit also needs to be given to the hardworking 4-H members and families who helped the day of the event and for all their efforts leading up to the event with organizing garage sale items, selling breakfast tickets, and spreading the word about the fundraiser.

I would also like to thank the community members who brought in donations for the garage sale. We weren’t sure what to expect, and the donations we received greatly exceeded our expectations! We heard so many compliments about the size of our sale and the quality of the items on the sale. Without the donations, we would not have had such an impressive sale – thank you! Thank you also to the many shoppers who stopped by the Garage Sale – we appreciate your business very much!

The Petting Zoo was a great success and we enjoyed having so many kids and families stop by to visit the animals. Thanks to the people who lent us their animals - Tom & Julie Sommers, Jeff & Jennie Johnson; Wes, Joy, and Emily Riihl, Raelynn and Jim Barbknecht family, McKenzie & Paula Kaupa, and Courtney Dobberstein. The Waseca County Fair Board deserves a thank you also for allowing use of the buildings on the fairgrounds.

We are excited to use the proceeds from the fundraiser for scholarships to leadership trips and camps, continuing our 4-H Adventures and Afterschool programs at little to no cost to participants, and educational opportunities for 4-H members such as Project Workshops and Projects in a Box for clubs to use at their meetings.

This year’s fundraiser was a huge success and without the community behind us, we could not have done it. Thank you again for your tremendous support! We have already begin planning next year’s fundraiser and hope to add to the breakfast, Garage Sale, and Petting Zoo to make the event even bigger and better. Look for the 4-H Garage Sale again next year during the Waseca City-wide Garage Sale Weekend.

Prep & Paint Nights

Waseca County 4-H was the recipient of a “Picture It Painted” Grant through SMIF (Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation). This grant allows us to receive free paint from Valspar for the interior of our 4-H Building. Our goals is a more attractive 4-H Building!

Help paint the interior of the 4-H Building! To ensure we get the project done, we will be having “Prep & Paint Nights” every Tuesday in June (with the exception of June 15th - that week’s “Prep & Paint” will be held June 14th.) From 5:30 to 6:30 pm we’ll cover different county-fair related topics that will help you prepare for the county fair. The sessions will be hands-on! They will be great for new 4-H families and experienced families too! From 6:30 pm to 9 pm, we’ll be painting away!! You won’t need to bring anything … Just show up in clothes that can get dirty and we’ll put you to work! We’ll have lots of snacks and goodies to eat while we paint.

25 Purple Ribbon Club pts awarded for each prep session you attend, 25 pts for each painting session

COUNTY FAIR PREP SESSION TOPICS INCLUDE:

June 1 – 4-H Project vs. Fair Exhibit - 5:30 to 6:30 pm, 4-H Building
Is there a difference between a 4-H project and what you bring to the fair? There sure is! And this session will help you know the difference between the two. You will learn how to set good goals for your projects and how to turn those goals into successful fair exhibits!

June 8 - Completing the Fair Registration - 5:30 to 6:30 pm, 4-H Building
Confused by all the rules, papers, and how to enter your exhibits? Get all your questions answered. Bring your fair registration form with you!

June 14* – Posters and Scrapbooks - 5:30 to 6:30 pm, 4-H Building
Are you putting your exhibit on a poster? What about in a scrapbook or binder? Learn how to put together an attractive poster. Bring your supplies and information we’ll take some time to work on your posters/booklets.

June 22 – The Judging Experience - 5:30 to 6:30 pm, 4-H Building
Are you nervous about having your 4-H exhibits judged at the County Fair? What is the judge looking for? What should you know about your exhibit? This session will answer all the questions you have about getting your exhibits judged - we will also have a “Mock” Judging Experience where you can practice with a helper! Bring one of your exhibits along even if it isn’t done
(Note - this session will only cover NON-LIVESTOCK judging - The June 29th session will be devoted to livestock.)

June 29 – Herdsman-what? - 5:30 to 6:30 pm, 4-H Building
Learn how to take good care of your animal while its at the fair, and how to keep your animal’s pen/stall looking its best during the fair. Learn what you will need to bring to the fair and get some basic tips on how to show your
animal. We’ll cover beef, dairy, goat, poultry, rabbit, sheep, and swine in a small group setting.

No registration is necessary for the Painting Sessions - you can just show up. Pre-registration is requested for the County Fair prep sessions - register by contacting Cheryl at the Extension Office (835-0600 or cleve065@umn.edu)

Pancakes, Promotion, and other uPdates!

Here are some reminders for you on some important upcoming events!

SPRING FUNDRAISER REMINDERS

Pancake Breakfast Tickets – Every family was sent 10 breakfast tickets that they should sell. Tickets are $5 each. Ticket money and unsold tickets are due back to the Extension Office BY MAY 5TH

Promotion and Publicity – We need your help spreading the word about this fundraiser!! Here are some ways you can help:

• Flyer - There is a promotional flyer for the fundraiser on the Extension website. Please feel free to share the link (http://www.extension.umn.edu/county/Waseca) with family and friends. Be sure you click on “Publications” on the left hand side of the screen – the flyer will then be listed under “Publications” as “SPRING FUNDRAISER FLYER - May 15 - Waseca County 4-H” The fundraising committee will be working to hang flyers up at various businesses, but if you would also like to hang some up, feel free to print the flyer off. The direct link to the flyer is: http://www.extension.umn.edu/county/Waseca/news/SpringFundraiserFlyer.pdf
• Email – Also on the Extension Website is a sample email that you can use to send to your family and friends letting them know about the fundraiser. It also includes a paragraph stating our need for donations for the sale, so please help spread the word! All people need to do with their items is box them up and bring them to one of four donation nights (May 10th – May 13th from 4 to 8 pm at the 4-H Building). They do not need to price the items, they won’t need to organize the items, and they won’t need to pick up items that didn’t sell! Feel free to use the email to send out to those you know about the fundraiser. Being this is our first year doing this, we want to be sure many people know about the event – the email can be found on the Extension Website – the direct link is: http://www.extension.umn.edu/county/Waseca/news/sampleemailforpromotion.pdf
• Facebook Event – There is an “Event” set up on the “Waseca County 4-H” Facebook page for the Spring Fundraiser – If you are a Facebook account, feel free to invite your friends to the Spring Fundraiser via Facebook!

LIVESTOCK ID PACKETS & TAG PICK-UP NIGHTS -

• Livestock ID Packets are available from the Extension Office or online at http://www.extension.umn.edu/county/template/index.aspx?pID=4&countyID=83# . PLEASE READ THE INFORMATION THAT IS INCLUDED IN YOUR LIVESTOCK ID PACKET.
• The only time you can get ear tags is Wednesday, April 28 and Thursday, April 29 from 3 to 7 pm at the Extension Office. YOU MUST BRING YOUR ID WITH YOU, FILLED OUT AS COMPLETELY AS POSSIBLE. No ID = No tags. Tags are $1 each.

OTHER REMINDERS -

• If you are a 4-H family in the Rabbit project and do not have a copy of the “Rabbit Standard of Perfection” book, let Amy know. We have several free copies to give to 4-H rabbit project families.
• There is a Meat Goat Project Workshop on Sunday, May 2nd at the Sankovitz residence near Waseca from 1 pm to 4 pm. See the flyer on the Extension website for more details - http://www.extension.umn.edu/county/Waseca/news/MeatGoat10flyer.pdf - Don’t forget to sign up by contacting the Extension Office!
• All families are asked to complete an evaluation of Waseca County 4-H Week by clicking on http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/LQW5L9Q . Even if you did not participate in any Waseca County 4-H Week activities we would still like to have your feedback!
• Project Add/Drop Deadline – THE LAST DAY TO MAKE CHANGES TO WHICH PROJECTS YOU ARE ENROLLED IN IS THIS FRIDAY – APRIL 30TH. If you are not signed up for a project by April 30th, you will not be able to exhibit in that project at the 2010 Waseca County Fair. Also, if you have a friend or know of someone who is planning to join 4-H, encourage them to enroll by April 30th if they want to exhibit at this year’s fair.

WASECA COUNTY 4-H WEEK A SUCCESS

Members, families, and volunteers involved with Waseca County 4-H celebrated their top-notch youth development program with special events and contests the week of April 10 through April 17.

The annual “Share the Fun and Performing Arts Contest” was held Saturday, April 17th, at the Waseca High School Little Theater as a final celebration of Waseca County 4-H Week. Approximately 75 4-H youth from throughout Waseca County participated in the evening of entertainment. Share the Fun and Performing Arts gives 4-H members the opportunity to experience performing in a group, which develops poise, self-confidence, and discipline. It also expands interest, knowledge, and skill in the performing arts.

Jackie Barbknecht of the Riverside Ramblers 4-H Club was awarded Grand Champion Performing Arts – she performed a guitar mix that she wrote and composed herself. Reserve Champion Performing Arts was awarded to Ben Lewer of the Vista Busy Bees 4-H Club with his piano performance of “Hello Ma’ Baby.” Jennifer McKay of the Vista Busy Bees and Kirsten Brenden of the Riverside Ramblers received the “Rising Star” Performing Arts awards. Also participating in performing arts were Kortney Cummins, Natalie Jewison, and Kristen McKay who all performed a vocal solo. There were also two acts in the “Just for Fun” category. Matthew Feldkamp and Andrew Weller both entertained the audience with piano solos.

In the club skit category, the Vista Busy Bees 4-H Club won first place with their skit called “The 12 Months of 4-H” and will represent Waseca County at the 2010 Minnesota State Fair. Their skit also received an award for Best Costumes. The Janesville Jacks & Jill’s, who performed a skit called “Get Your Ticket to 4-H” received 2nd place and “The Golden Hammer” award for Best Set and Props. The Palmer Sunbeams 4-H Club received “Most Humorous” honors with their skit “Are You Smarter Than a 4-Her?”

Thank you to those who participated in Waseca County 4-H Week to make it a success!!!! We would like your feedback on Waseca County 4-H Week - please complete follow-up evaluation (click here to complete the evaulation - 10 bonus Purple Ribbon Club points will be awarded for each survey taken from your club). Even if you did not participate, we would still like your thoughts on how we can improve Waseca County 4-H Week.