Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Horse Whispers 4-H Club Meeting

The next meeting of the Horse Whispers 4-H Club is at 6:30pm on Tuesday, November 27th in the basement of the town hall.  Dr. Karen Wilson of Twin Oaks Vet. Hospital will be speaking at 7pm. 

Thursday, November 8, 2012

$5000 Scholarship


The 2013-2014 Secure Optimal Yield Scholarship is a $5,000 one-time scholarship award presented to a High School Senior who is plans to pursue Agriculture as a degree area of study at any accredited College or University next school year.  The scholarship is managed by the American Soybean Association and is made possible through a grant by BASF Corporation.  There are specific academic, agriculture leadership, and ASA membership requirements to apply.  An essay submission is also required.

Deadline to apply is November 15, 2012.  Final Selection will be made the first week of December.  The winner will be notified prior to an official announcement made in March 2013, during the annual Commodity Classic convention and trade show in Kissimmee, FL.    BASF sponsors the winner and one parent to attend Commodity Classic for two days to participate and receive special recognition at the ASA Awards Banquet.  See the attached link  for specific scholarship requirements.

For more information and to apply go to: www.soygrowers.com/soy/scholarship.htm

Thursday, October 25, 2012

4-H Holiday Plant Sale

We are currently taking orders for our first ever Holiday Plant Sale.  There are 3 choices of poinsettias available.  

  • Desktop Size (10"-12") with decorative foil on the pot = $6
  • Large Size (15"-18") with decorative foil on the pot = $12
  • Large Size (15"-18") with decorative foil & a bow = $12
All orders are due by Friday, November 16, 2012 and payment is due at the time the order is placed. 

We are offering 2 pick-up days:
Thursday, November 29th from 9am to 4pm
Friday, November 30th from 9am to 4pm

Click here for your printable order form.  For more information, contact the Extension Office at 336-372-5597.

*All proceeds will help send kids to summer camp and other 4-H sponsored activities.*
 




Monday, October 22, 2012

4-H Food Show

Come show off those tasty dishes!!!  Bryanna Lindberg will be hosting a 4-H food show on Friday, November 9th at 6 PM at Christ Episcopal Church in Sparta (2543 U.S. Hwy. 21)   The food show is open to anyone ages 5-18. There will be door prizes, activities during the judging and a meal afterwards.  If you are interested in participating please contact Bryanna at bramblerose1995@gmail.com to submit your recipe or the Extension Office at (336) 372-5597 for more information.  

Deadline to register:   November 5, 2012.  

 


Thursday, October 11, 2012

4-H Science Fair

The 4-H Science Fair has been scheduled for Saturday, January 12, 2013 at the Catawba Science Center.  An application packet can be obtained at:  http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/competitor-packet-2012_20131.pdf   There will be a $5 registration fee.  The deadline for early registration (projects to be considered for regional competition) is October 31st.  The deadline for regular registration (projects not to be considered for regional competition) is December 1st.

Click here for more information about the science fair and workshops being offered or contact the Extension Office at 336-372-5597.

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

M.T.E.S.T. (Military Teens Engaging in Service through Technology)


NC Operation: Military Kids (OMK) program is pleased to announce M.T.E.S.T. (Military Teens Engaging in Service through Technology) weekend retreat! The weekend will involve photography, scavenger hunt, videography and putting your best foot forwards skills just to name a few! You will meet other military teens from across North Carolina and will experience a weekend of fun and hands-on activities you can use back home. Participants will explore NC State University Campus as part of their weekend. 

M.T.E.S.T. is designed for military teens ages 13-18. 

DATE: 2-4 November 2012

TIME: Friday, 2 November - 6:30PM
         Sunday, 4 November 12:00 PM (noon)

WHERE: DoubleTree by Hilton – Brownstone - University
                  1707 Hillsborough Street
                  Raleigh, NC 27605

COST: $60 (to defray expenses not covered by grant funder)


REGISTRATION DEADLINE: 19 October 2012 by 5:00PM (EST)

Flyer and Registration Form can be found at the following address:
http://www.operationmilitarykids.org/public/statePOCHome.aspx?state=North%20Carolina (Refer to Events and Info (scrolling) on Right hand side of webpage or NEWS at top of webpage)

The following forms must be presented at check-in on 21 September: 1.) Media Release, 2.) Medical Release and 3.) Code of Conduct forms, go to http://www.nc4h.org/military/index.htmlhttp://www.nc4h.org/procedures-and-guidelines/ to download the forms.

*ALL* military youth participants must have a signed and completed Media Release, Medical Release and Code of Conduct forms


Transportation may be available .  You must contact the Extension Office for more information at (336) 372-5597

National 4-H Week




October 7-13 is National 4-H Week, and Alleghany County is celebrating the 4-H youth who have made an impact on the community, and are stepping up to the challenges of a complex and changing world.

Recent findings from Tufts University's 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development indicate that young people in 4-H are three times more likely to contribute to their communities than youth not participating in 4-H. Notably, the Tufts research discovered that the structured learning, encouragement and adult mentoring that 4-H'ers receive play a vital role in helping them actively contribute to their communities.

4-H youth are a living breathing, culture-changing revolution for doing the right thing, breaking through obstacles and pushing our country forward by making a measurable difference right where they live. Learn how you can Join the Revolution of Responsibility at 4-H.org/revolution, or contact Amy Lucas at Alleghany Cooperative Extension at 336-372-5597 or amy_lucas@ncsu.edu

REVOLUTION OF RESPONSIBILITY VIDEO - The House that Hogs bought and Wake County 4-H

State Council Newsletter- October 2012


The State Council Newsletter has returned!  This newsletter was written by the State and District 4-H Council Officers. Enjoy!!

Monday, October 8, 2012

State 4-H Council Conference


What:  4-H Council Conference
When:  November 3-4
Who:  Youth ages 13-18
Cost:  $80
Where:  Raleigh (McKimmon Center)

REGISTRATION DEADLINE:  FRIDAY, OCTOBER 12

It is almost time for the 2012 State 4-H Council Conference! The dates of the conference are November 3 & 4 and it will be held at the Jane S. McKimmon Center in Raleigh. State Council Conference is for youth ages 13 - 18. We are planning exciting workshops and speakers for the event. As most of you are aware this year our Council is focusing on the Revolution of Responsibility and 4-H’ers will enjoy the workshops that are being planned around this. We will have a variety of workshops at this year’s conference including programmatic workshops, Ambassador workshops and State Council workshops.

There will be a dance and spirit stick competition.

To register, contact the Extension Office at 336-372-5597 (ask for Amy or Michele).

Monday, July 16, 2012

NC 4-H Congress Streaming Live!!

FYI . . .. all the 4-H Congress Sessions will be streaming live this year: http://www.ihigh.com/nc4h/. Congress starts today at NC State University and runs through Thursday. Seven Alleghany 4-H'ers are in attendance. Hope they are all having a great time!!!

Friday, July 13, 2012

Community Service Opportunity for our Soldiers


THIS IS A SERVICE PROJECT THAT OUR CONGRESS DELEGATION WILL BE PARTICIPATING IN NEXT WEEK.  I APOLOGIZE FOR THE EXTREMELY SHORT NOTICE BUT WAS JUST MADE AWARE OF THE OPPORTUNITY THIS MORNING.  IF YOU HAVE EITHER TOWELS OR TWIN SHEETS YOU WOULD BE WILLING TO DONATE PLEASE BRING THEM TO THE EXTENSION OFFICE (90 S MAIN ST, SPARTA) EVEN IF THIS IS AFTER MONDAY.  WE WILL GET THEM TO THE SOLDIERS. 

Approximately 350 single soldiers will be returning home to live in the barracks at Fort Bragg in mid August.
Once they arrive, they receive a no driving period to adjust from their deployment and will not be able to purchase anything they need.

We are asking our NC 4-H Family to assist us with providing at least one bath towel and one twin sheet (fitted or flat). These items are basic necessities that are not provided and would make their welcome home that much better.

Sarah Kotzian has agreed for us to collect at Congress during registration and on Wednesday morning before Hands To Service assembly.

SGT. Angie Bibin, Battalion Family Readiness Liaison from Ft. Bragg, Moore County 4-H’ers, and a 4-H volunteer/alumni will assist with your donation.

Please help us support our military and bring a sheet and towel for our soldiers.

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Tube the New Postponed

Due to the high risk of inclement weather we have postponed the "Tube the New" summer fun trip until July 23rd at 1:00 pm.  If you have questions or would like to attend, please contact the office at 336-372-5597.  This program is open to youth age 12+ who can swim.

Thursday, July 5, 2012

“Adventures in Science” Camp


July 27 & 28, 2012 

NC Operation: Military Kids (OMK) and Catawba Science Center have partnered together to host an "Adventures in Science" Camp for military youth (only) ages 7 to 11. This overnight adventure will have participants Spend the evening solving crimes like a CSI, (fingerprinting, chromatography and fiber analysis), exploring the universe like an astronomer, and walking on the “wild side”  to become acquainted with Wildlife.  

There is a $15 registration fee for the weekend.

The following registration links are now open

Flyer and Registration Form:

or


*There are limited number spaces available for the “Adventures in Science”. 

Campers are responsible for their own transportation to and from the camp.
Additional information:

The following forms must be presented at check-in on 20 July: 1.) Media Release, 2.) Medical Release and 3.) Code of Conduct forms.  Go to http://www.nc4h.org/military/index.htmlhttp://www.nc4h.org/procedures-and-guidelines/ to download the forms.

*ALL* military youth participants must have a signed and completed Media Release, Medical Release and Code of Conduct forms presented at check-in on 27 July 2012 in order to participate in "Adventures in Science".

To learn more about the Catawba Science Center, go to http://www.catawbascience.org/

For additional information, please contact Scott Enroughty, Project Coordinator - NC OMK at 919.515.8500 or scott_enroughty@ncsu.edu


Monday, July 2, 2012

Citizenship Focus 2012


A member of Alleghany County 4-H recently attended 4-H Citizenship North Carolina Focus, which was held in Raleigh, North Carolina. More than 200 youth and adults representing over 75 4-H programs across the state gathered to exchange ideas, gain knowledge and learn through hands on experiences about the different levels and branches of government.

Khalil Lawson represented Alleghany County at the June 11-13 conference. Through various conference sessions and facilitated discussions, delegates learned and shared information related to local, state and national government as well participated in budget simulation sessions and learned how to be active in the area of citizenship.  Delegates also worked with their county 4-H Agent to develop an action plan based on a local need in their community to implement upon returning home from the conference.

The highlight of the conference was the Legislative Breakfast where delegates had a chance to meet and have photos taken with their elected officials.  Following the breakfast, delegates traveled to the Legislative Building in Raleigh to meet with their elected officials and their staff.

4-H Citizenship North Carolina Focus is sponsored by North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives – Touchstone Energy.  North Carolina 4-H is Cooperative Extension’s youth development program. 

For more information on this event or other 4-H programs, please contact Amy Lucas, 4-H Agent in Alleghany County at (336) 372-5597.

Monday, June 25, 2012

Tube the New -- Rescheduled

Who:  Youth ages 12+
Cost:  $15
When:  Tuesday:  July 10

Due to rainy weather, we have rescheduled TUBE THE NEW for Tuesday, July 10th.  We will spend the afternoon tubing our way down the New River.  You MUST be able to swim in order to participate in this activity!  Make sure you wear your bathing suit, water shoes (NO flip flops!) and sunscreen.  You will also need to bring a towel and a change of clothes.  A snack will be provided.  We will meet at the County Office Building parking lot at 1 pm. Spaces are limited.   For more information or to register, contact the Extension Office at 336-372-5597.

Scholarship Opportunities for Military Youth

Following is information about  scholarship opportunities for military youth.  Please help to spread the word to military families, colleagues who work with military families, and/or friends/family members who have a military service member. If you have any questions please contact Carla Moss at carla.r.moss.civ@mail.mil.


MILITARY SCHOLARSHIPS


Thursday, June 14, 2012

Alleghany Horse Camp 2012

Horse Camp - July 24-28
Horse Camp will held July 24 - July 28, 2012 at the Alleghany County Fairgrounds in Sparta. The nonrefundable camp fee is $100.00 per camper.  Spaces are VERY limited and will be filled based on the following application. Attendance for camp is open to youth that are certified North Carolina 4-H members.  


Timeline for Camp:

Application due by July 1st
Applicants will be notified of acceptance by July 5th.
Entire Camp Fee is due by July 11th
Forms are due by July 16th
Camp begins July 24th



FORMS & INSTRUCTIONS


Horse Camp Application 
4-H Enrollment Form 
4-H Medical Information and Informed Consent for Treatment 
NC 4-H Camps Consent Form 
NC Dept. of 4-H Youth Dev. Health History and Custody Release 
NC 4-H and Alleghany Co 4-H Media Release Form

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Western Horsemanship Clinic and Games


Ashe County Ag Expo Center Grounds (Hwy 163)

June 2, 2012

Cost:  $10 (includes clinics & games)

Clinics—10:00 a.m.—1:00 p.m.
(mandatory for children under the age of 11 to attend clinics if participating in games; optional for 11 years and older)

Clinics Include:
• Basic Ring Etiquette & Safety
• Basic Rider Safety
• Basic Showmanship


Timed Events on Horseback
• Flag Race
• Speed Barrels
• Pole Bending
• Egg and Spoon
• Barrels
• Stick Horse Race
• Calf Scramble

Sponsored by: Ashe County Friends of Agriculture
All youth must wear approved helmets. It is recommended that adults wear approved helmets.


For More Information please call North Carolina Cooperative
Extension, Ashe County Center (336) 846-5850
Games—1:00 p.m.—Until (All Ages)

Not responsible in case of accidents.
Bring Your Lawn Chairs
Concessions Available

Friday, May 25, 2012

US National Whitewater Center


June 8 ~ 8 am – 5 pm
Ages: 12+
Cost: $50  
Limit:  10

Come with us as we make our way to Charlotte, NC for a  day of outdoor adventure.  You will have unlimited access to the following: Whitewater Rafting, Canyon Crossing, Climbing, MegaZip, Mega Jump,  Mountain Biking, Adventure Course, Climb 2 Zip, Flatwater Kayaking, Whitewater Kayaking, StandUp Paddle Boarding and Eco Trekking. This will be the most thrilling trip of the summer so don’t miss out!!  Snacks will be provided.

You will need to bring money for lunch. Scholarships may be available.

We will meet at the County Office Building Parking Lot.

You must have a signed waiver if you plan to Whitewater Raft:    WAIVER

Registration deadline: Wednesday, June 6 - 5pm 


US National Whitewater Center

Hiking for Better Health


June 6 & 7 ~ 8 am - 3 pm each day
Ages: 12 +
Cost: $15 (covers lunch, snack and transportation both days)
 Limit: 6

On June 6th, we will travel to the Wilkes Extension Office to learn to cook and pack healthy lunches and overall better nutrition habits.

On June 7, we will travel to Stone Mountain State Park for a day of hiking and a program.  On June 7,  NO flip flops and be sure to bring a water bottle and sunscreen.  We will meet at the County Office Building Parking Lot.
Registration deadline: Friday, June 1


For more information contact the Extension Office at 336-372-5597.  To register you must come in person to the Extension Office, 90 S Main St., Sparta, NC  28675




Thursday, May 24, 2012

WC 4-H District Activity Day


WHERE: Alleghany High School - 404 Trojan Avenue        
             DIRECTIONS 
WHEN:  Wednesday, June 20, 2012
WHO:  Youth ages 5-19
COST :  Free - Lunch is $7.00 per person
REGISTRATION DEADLINE:  June 4, 2012


District Activity Day is a presentation competition between youth ages 5-19 from our 17 county district.  Youth are able to present on a variety of topics (see categories) .  Winners from District Activity Day may be able to attend the state level presentation competition held at NCSU during 4-H Congress.  


Categories: There are over 35 categores you can present in. A few of these include: Bugs and Bees, Small and Companion Animals, Horse, Wheels and Engines, Safety, Science and Technology, Soil, Water and the Environment, 21st Century Communication, Interior Design and Home Space, Forestry and Wildlife, Egg Cookery, Health and Fitness, Citizenship, 4-H Entertains and an Open Class. For a full list of categories with descriptions, please click HERE.


Entertains:  4-H Entertains is the talent portion of the competition.  For a registration form for 4-H Entertains, click HERE.


Cloverbud Presentations
 (ages 5-8) – We will again be  allowing cloverbuds to participate in District Activity Day and give their presentations. Cloverbuds are a non-competitive category.  These presentations should be no longer than 5 minutes and they may be on any topic, but no live animals.


Lunch – Lunch will be $7 and will be a BBQ plate lunch with Lexington Style BBQ, coleslaw, baked beans, roll, dessert and choice of tea or water. You MUST pre-register for lunch.  There will be no extra lunches available the day of the event. There is a vegetarian option available.


If you were unable to make County Activity Day but are interested in attending District Day, please contact us for more information.  To register for this event, please contact the Extension Office at (336) 372-5597 and ask for Amy or Michele.  

Monday, May 21, 2012

Service Members, Families, Get Free Pass to National Parks


By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 15, 2012 - Service members and their families will be able to enter all of America's national parks free of charge for a year under an initiative announced today.

The pass – the America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Annual Pass, which normally costs $80 – will become available to service members and their dependents on Armed Forces Day, May 19.

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar made the announcement this morning, along with National Park Service Director Jon Jarvis, at a ceremony at Colonial National Historical Park in Yorktown, Va., the site of the last major battle of the Revolutionary War. The area surrounding the park hosts installations from all the military services, including the world's largest naval base.

"I think when one goes into Virginia and you see all the sites, the Yorktown battlefield and the whole history of the country, it's important that those who have fought in the tradition of making sure the nation's democracy and freedom are protected also have access to these wonderful sites there," Salazar said yesterday in a conference call with reporters.

The passes allow the holder and passengers in a single private vehicle access to some 2,000 sites that charge per vehicle. At sites where entrance fees are charged per person, it covers the pass owner and three adults age 16 and older.

The National Park Service estimates that giving away the passes to service members and their families will result in a revenue loss between $2 million and $6 million, but Jarvis said that won't cause a significant impact on the agency, which collects about $150 million in fees each year.
Military personnel can get the passes at any national park or wildlife refuge that charges an entrance fee by showing their military ID. Family members also will be able to obtain their own pass, even if the service member is deployed or if they are traveling separately.

The pass will be accepted at National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Reclamation, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Army Corps sites that charge entrance or standard amenity fees.

The free pass will be made available for activated members of the National Guard and reserves, but not for military veterans or retirees, whom Jarvis said have other opportunities for free or reduced admission, such as the National Patrk Service's "Access Pass" or a seniors pass for those 62 and older.
Jarvis, a 40-year Park Service employee, said that while the free passes are a first, they are representative of the parks' history with the military, which dates back to the Buffalo Soldiers' battles with Native Americans in the mid-1800s and the recruitment of former military members to serve as park rangers under the first NPS director, Stephen T. Mather. The Park Service maintains many military historical sites from Gettysburg to Pearl Harbor, and in World War II even closed some parks, such as Mount Rainier in Washington state, to all but active military members, he said.

Right after World War II, the Park Service invested heavily in infrastructure to prepare the parks for returning service members, Jarvis said. Today's generation of warriors also deserves a deep connection to the parks, he said.
"From my perspective, it is incredibly important to return this group of returning military members to their national parks," Jarvis said. "Nothing is more core to the American experience than the national parks. These are places for quiet and contemplation and to reconnect to the American experience. And we don't want there to be any barriers to that."

The free pass initiative is part of the "Joining Forces" campaign First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, launched last year to rally Americans around supporting service members and their families.

"Our nation owes a debt of gratitude to our servicemen and women who make great sacrifices to protect our country and preserve our freedom," Dr. Biden said in a White House statement. "In recognition of their service, we are so pleased to be putting out a welcome mat for our military families at America's most beautiful and storied sites."


National Park Service


Joining Forces

Friday, May 18, 2012

SUMMER FUN

The 2012 Alleghany 4-H Summer Fun Newsletter is now available online.  Click Here to find out what fun & exciting activities we have planned for this year.  

If you are interested in attending any of these activities, you MUST come in person (to the Extension Office) to register.  If there is a fee for the event, payment is due in full at time of registration.  Also, this year we will also require a one-time registration fee of $10, which includes a t-shirt.

We must have updated (2012) Enrollment, Medical & Media Release forms signed.  You can print them or we have some available in the office.

For more information, please call 336-372-5597 or you can email Amy or Michele with any questions.

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

USDA Multicultural Scholars Program Poultry Science Scholarship




Scholarship Overview: The Department of Poultry Science at North Carolina State University is pleased to announce that five USDA Multicultural Scholarships are available to minority students who are interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Poultry Science at NC State University starting Fall 2013! Details about our undergraduate program can be found at: http://www.cals.ncsu.edu/poultry/index.php

Scholarship Eligibility:  Students must be rising seniors (currently juniors in high school) who will be applying to the Department of Poultry Science at North Carolina State University in Fall 2012 in order to matriculate in Fall 2013.  Students must gain acceptance to North Carolina State University Department of Poultry Science and undergo an application and interview process.  Students must pursue a Bachelor of Science Degree in Poultry Science and can select the Science or Technology Concentrations.  The majority of students who complete a B.S. in Poultry Science go on to become leaders in the state, national, and international poultry industry, veterinary school to pursue careers in poultry medicine, graduate school to pursue careers in research and education, and agricultural biotechnology.

Scholarship Details:
 Total Scholarship Package $40,000 over the course of a 4 year undergraduate career!!!!
·        $6,500 annual scholar tuition ($26,000 over four years)!
·        $2,500 annual cost of education  allowance ($10,000 over four years) to apply to attendance at conferences, field trips, educational activities!
·        $4,000 one time student experiential learning fund to an international externship in Poultry Science at an international university/organization!

If interested in applying, please contact Dr. Jackie Golden by emailing:
jackie_golden@ncsu.edu

Monday, April 30, 2012

Livestock Judging 101



Who: Youth ages 9-18


What: Educational clinic for youth interested in participating in livestock judging events. For all experience levels from beginners to experts. We will break the kids into groups depending on experience levels.

When: May 19, 2012


Where: NCSU Beef Educational Unit, Raleigh NC


Cost: $15 per kid (Includes lunch and handouts)


Instructors: We will have a variety of instructors who are experts in their fields to help teach this event, including past NC 4-H Livestock Judging Team Members.

Registration begins at 8:00 am with program beginning at 8:30.  


For more information contact:
Brent Jennings
NCSU Youth 4-H Livestock
Campus Box 7621
Raleigh, NC 27695
Phone: 919-515-4467
Fax: 919-515-6884
E-mail: brent_jennings@ncsu.edu

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Horticultural Science Summer Institute

July 8th - 13th 2012
NC State University

All high school-aged youth (rising sophomores, juniors and seniors) are invited to apply to a new week long, residential horticultural experience on the campus of NC State University. Youth will have hands-on opportunities to explore a broad range of horticultural possibilities from breeding better fruits and vegetables, growing a diverse selection of woody ornamentals, lengthening the life of cut flowers, learning sustainable production practices and delving into tools that enhance our understanding of plant production processes. Participants will visit a variety of horticultural businesses. Youth will also be introduced to career possibilities, college-making decisions and leadership development. The inagural Horticultural Science Summer Institute is sponsored by North Carolina State University and North Carolina Cooperative Extension’s 4-H Program with the Department of Horticultural Science.

The cost of the institute will be $500 with a $150 deposit due upon application acceptance. Scholarships may be available. Applications are due Monday, May 21st, 2012. Please fill out the online application at http://go.ncsu. edu/hssi and have a non-family member submit one letter of recommendation to liz_driscoll@ncsu.edu or Liz Driscoll, 218 Kilgore

For more information (including a draft schedule) visit: http://go.ncsu.edu/hssi-2012 or contact: Liz Driscoll at liz_driscoll@ncsu.edu / 919.513.7346 or 919.886.3424

2012 Southeastern Dairy Youth Retreat in Ocala, Florida

Where:  Ocala, Florida
When:  July 8 - 12, 2012
Who:  Youth ages 8 - 18 (must be 8 as of January 1, 2012)
Cost: $175 per person


REGISTRATION FORMS

TENATIVE AGENDA


It is my pleasure to announce that Florida will be hosting the 2012 Southeast Dairy Youth Retreat this year. Our committee has been working hard to plan an event that you will have a wonderful experience at. We have assembled a program with many fun and educational activities that will be centered around the Ocala, FL area. We will have the opportunity to visit a wide variety of farms in Florida, ranging from a grazing dairy to our top production herd in the state, and some very innovative and interesting farms along the way. We will also take a trip to a local water park and get involved with some interactive workshops and tours. We anticipate a good time to be had by all and know that you will enjoy our world class Florida hospitality and fun. We look forward to seeing you at this year’s Southeast Dairy Youth Retreat; it will be a time to remember.
Chris Holcomb, Dairy Extension
In order for you to attend this retreat, you must complete the attached registration forms for both Florida and North Carolina and provide a check as follows by
 Friday June 1:

1. Check for $175 made payable Polk County, Florida 4-H Foundation (this is the registration fee; write SEDYR in the memo field on the check)

2. 2012 Florida Southeastern Dairy Youth Retreat Registration Form

3. Florida 4-H Participation Form for Youth and Adults

Mail the check for $175; the 2012 Florida Southeastern Dairy Youth Retreat Registration Form; and the Florida 4-H Participation Form by Friday June 1 to:

Polk County, Florida Extension Service
C/O Chris Holcomb
P.O. Box 9005
Drawer HS03
Bartow, Florida 33831

You must also send the following items to Dr. Hopkins by Friday June 1:

1. North Carolina 4-H Code of Conduct Form
2. North Carolina 4-H Medical Release Form (must be notarized)
3. Copy of the completed Florida Southeastern Dairy Youth retreat Registration Form

Send these completed forms to:

Dr. Brinton A. Hopkins
Professor and Extension Dairy Specialist
Box 7621
Department of Animal Science
NC State University
Raleigh, NC 27695-7621

The cost of this retreat has been set at $175 per participant by the organizers in Florida. Please have your check for $175 made payable to Polk County, Florida 4-H Foundation (this is the registration fee; write SEDYR in the memo field on the check)


NOTE: The North Carolina Dairy Youth Foundation and the North Carolina PDCA are providing financial support to help offset the transportation costs for our North Carolina youth.  If needed, each participant may be required to pay an additional fee for the bus transportation. Participants will be notified of this amount once all North Carolina participants have registered.






Sunday, April 22, 2012

Happy Earth Day!!!

Today is Earth Day! People in countries around the world will be celebrating our wonderful planet and raising awareness about the environment.

The first Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970. With support from Wisconsin senator Gaylord Nelson, a Washington, D.C. environmental group organized an event called the Environmental Teach-In to raise environmental awareness. This event became Earth Day. Earth Day spread from being recognized in cities and colleges in the United States to being observed in places all over the world.

Over one billion people from 180 countries around the world celebrate Earth Day every year.

See some pictures from the first EARTH DAY from National Geographic

The Earth

  • The Earth is humongous, having a diameter of 7,926 miles. It orbits around the sun at a speed of 18.5 miles per second or 67,000 miles per hour. Seventy-one percent of the Earth's surface is water; the Pacific Ocean makes up 70 million squared miles of that coverage. The force of gravity is so strong that you would need to travel at a speed of at least seven miles per second to escape it. Approximately two million species of animals, plants and other organisms have been identified and named; it is estimated that approximately 50 million species have yet to be identified.

Incentives to Recycle

  • If everyone in the United States recycled their newspapers, the lives of 41,000 trees would be spared. One single tree can detoxify the air of up to 60 pounds of pollutants.
    To make an aluminum can from recycled materials takes only five percent of the energy normally needed to make a can, an energy savings of 95%. The energy saved by recycling just one aluminum can is enough to power a television set for three hours.
    Recycling glass bottles allows the energy consumption for new glass products to be cut in half.
 

Links:

The Nature Conservancy

EekoWorld - PBS Kids

Enivoronmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Disney Friends for Change



Tuesday, April 17, 2012

4-H Citizenship NC Focus

4-H Citizenship North Carolina Focus will be held June 11-13, 2012, in Raleigh at the Sheraton Downtown.  This is open to two (2) 4-Hers from Alleghany County, ages 14-19.  Participants will participate in hands-on workshops, panel discussions, meet distinguished speakers, and open discussion will help you discover how government impacts your everyday life, and how you can impact government in return.  You will learn about state government, learn about working with public officials, hear from prominent North Carolina officials, and visit legislators. 

Applications must be received in our office by Friday, April 27,  2012!! Cost for the event is $150 (scholarships may be available).  For more information contact the Extension Office at 372-5597.

Don't miss out on this great opportunity.  We would like to be able to take two youth!! Our local legislators enjoy meeting youth from the county!!! 

Monday, April 16, 2012

Plant Information Sheets


All,

I am providing the links to some helpful information sheets for the types of plants we sold this year.  Hope this helps.




                              http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/hil/ag569.html


                              http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/hil/pdf/blackberries.pdf





Michele Hamm

Extension Secretary II

North Carolina Cooperative Extension

Alleghany County Center

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Plant Sale Pick-up Postponed

Plant Sale Pick-Up has been postponed. We have had an unexpected delay in the shipment of the strawberries, horseradish, one grape and one blackberry variety. They are to be shipped over night, but we cannot guarantee an arrival time. If you plan on trying to pick up your order tomorrow (4/13), please send an email to michele_hamm@ncsu or call the office at 372-5597, to be sure that your order is complete. If your order is not complete tomorrow, you may pick up your plants on Monday, April 16th or a day/time that is convenient. We will get your order to you as soon as possible and apololgize for the inconvenience.
Thanks for your patience & understanding.

Saturday, April 7, 2012

WC District Horse Show

REGISTRATION FORM

We are excited about this year's West Central District 4-H Horse Show that will be held May 12, 2012 at Latta Plantation in Huntersville, located in Mecklenburg County.

Attached you will find all the items you need to register for the West Central District Qualifying Show.

There have been some rule changes and you may find that the class  sheet and registration form has a few changes from previous years. The classes are arranged so that it is possible to show in more than one discipline and qualify as long as you place accordingly. It is the responsibility of all 4-H'ers to be aware of any rule changes that may affect them. Please read over the entire packet thoroughly.

Each 4-H member must hold an eligibility card, which has been signed by your County Extension Agent. Along with the eligibility card for each horse you are showing, you must show the original copy of your horse's negative Coggins test and lease papers upon registration at the district show. All 4-H'ers who will be leasing a horse must have proper documentation. All horses purchased or leased must be in the child’s possession at least 30 days prior to the district show. A lease agreement is required for all leased horses.

Coggins, Lease and Eligibility cards will be checked upon arrival. Please have these forms handy as you arrive at Latta Plantation. All ponies must be measured before registering with the show office.
Please remember, NO hardship requests (for State qualifications) are allowed this year. It is the responsibility of each 4-H'er and each leader to be aware of any rule changes. The updated Rule Book is now available on-line at:

Any youth staying on the grounds overnight must have an adult chaperone. All classes except Cloverbud classes have a $8 entry fee. Please mail the enclosed, completed registration form and all fees: class entry, stall and shaving fees.
To: Becki Jonas
2521 Hickory Grove Rd.
Gastonia, NC 28056

 Make checks payable to: West Central District 4-H Horse Council
A one-time fee of $50.00 per horse/rider pair will be added for any late entries. IMPORTANT: ENTRIES MUST BE POSTMARKED BY APRIL 14, 2012! Entries not postmarked by the April 14st deadline should be registered on-site. Each horse and child MUST be registered in AT LEAST one class. You will have the opportunity to add classes on site.

The show grounds gate will open at 2:00pm on Friday, May 11, 2012 and remain open until 10:00pm for hauling in horses. It will reopen at 6:00am on Saturday, May 12, 2012. The show office will open on Friday from 3:00pm-8:00pm for early check in. It will reopen at 7:00am Saturday morning.
Ponies will be measured from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm on Friday, 7:00 am – 8:00 am on Saturday. They will be measured at the wash pits at the end of barn B.

Poultry Science Summer Institute













Summer Institute
July 29- August 2, 2012(Always the first full week of August)

Download the application form
(annually due May 2nd)

What is the Poultry Science Summer Institute?
The summer institute is a four-day, four-night conference designed to broaden the high school student’s understanding of the educational disciplines, scholarship opportunities, careers and industries related to poultry science.


Who can attend & how much is it?

Any high school student (rising 11th and 12th graders) with an interest in the biological sciences or a career in the poultry industry may apply to attend. You must list as a reference a high school science teacher, counselor, County Extension agent, 4H leader or vocational agriculture instructor. We also request a brief personal statement of why you would like to attend. There will be space for two adults to attend the conference as well. Interested Teachers and Agents should contact the coordinator for more details.

Cost for the conference is only $50.00, which includes your lodging on campus, all meals, field trips, workshop materials, great goody bags and entertainment.

How do I apply?
Once you’ve decided to join us, just follow the simple steps below. There’s nothing to lose!
  • Fill out the registration form before the May 2nd deadline.
  • Complete a brief personal statement indicating why you are interested in the experience (this is very helpful when we are selecting who will be chosen to attend!).
  • Mail or fax your form to Debbie Ort at the address on the bottom by May 2nd.
  • We will notify you of your acceptance by the second week of May.
  • Space is limited to 15 - 20 and this program is very popular. If you are not accepted the first time, please consider applying again next year.
What's in it for me?

You will get to see what campus life is really like at North Carolina State University when you come to the summer iInstitute. You will be staying in University Towers, a private residence hall (with a pool), going to local fun spots, doing hands-on-experimentation in a classroom setting, and doing all sorts of things that college students do. In other words, you'll get to "try us on for size". Students participating in the program will get to interact informally with numerous NC State Univ. faculty, staff and current poultry science students. Attendees will learn about the vast field that is Poultry Science as well as specific information on our Poultry Science Degree Program and areas such as:

  • Career Fields & Areas of Opportunity
  • Scholarship Requirements and Availability
  • Internships while Attending College
  • Employment Connections upon Graduation
  • How to Apply to College and When
  • and about anything else you would like to know about POULTRY!

AND most important of all, you'll make lots of new friends from all over the State of North Carolina. Still want more information? E-mail: debbie_ort@ncsu.edu or call (919) 515-5403..

Friday, March 9, 2012

Plant Sale

There is only 1 week left to get your order forms and payment in for the 2012 4-H Plant Sale.  Click here for the original post with the plant information and order forms.

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

2012 Youth Market Turkey Show


The 2012 Youth Market Turkey Show is gearing up for another fun and exciting year!! Turkey pickup will be June 7th and 8th, time TBA, with the turkey check in on Oct. 10th and the show taking place on Oct. 12th. With the usual registration date of March 1st quickly approaching I hope to have the registration form available on line that day. However, mishaps do happen in the computing world and should the site fail to upload correctly for some reason or another, I am asking that all participants email me, as well as completing the online registration, their poult order. Do not put your social security number in the email, just your name, county, and number of requested poults. Your social security number will be on the online form with your other information. I will then have your correct email for correspondence as well as the time of your request since the first 300 entries will receive turkey poults. I will not be opening registration at midnight on March 1st.   The site will be “turned on” sometime around 3:00pm on March 1st.
Debbie Ort
NCSU
Department of Poultry Science

Debbie's email is:  debbie_ort@ncsu.edu.   

If you have any questions, you can contact the Extension Office at 372-5597 or contact Debbie directly.