Blanco County 4-H

Blog has moved to Facebook

2010-03-05T08:51:00.000-08:00

Due to popular demand, we are now on Facebook and no longer on the blog. You can find us at: Blanco County 4-H

4-H Tallent Competition-Rule Change

2010-02-08T07:54:00.000-08:00

Please disregard the rule stating all videos must be saved on a CD. DVDs may be used. Other than this rule change, all other submission guidelines will stay the same. If there are any questions, please fell free to contact Kyle Merten @ 979-845-6533.

Hill Country Spurs Information

2010-02-01T06:47:00.000-08:00

Good Morning:

A reminder that there is a meeting of the Ft. Worth Horse Judgers at Miss Traci’s house at 6:00 p.m. (Kendra, Amara, Ava and Shelbi). This senior team will be heading to Ft. Worth on Friday afternoon for Saturday’s competition. Wish them luck!!!

Also, we have an ARENA RIDE scheduled with Tami Purcell on Tuesday, February 2 at 6:30 pm at the JC Arena, working on barrels. This is dependent on the weather, so stay tuned for an update tomorrow.

See you soon!

2010 Fashion Show & Textile Show/2010 District 10 Photography Contest

2010-02-01T06:41:00.000-08:00

2010 Fashion Show and Textile Show
April 17, 2010
Fredericksburg Middle School
Registration: March 15 April 5, via 4 H Connect
Fees: $5

Three Contests available:
1. Fashion Show Categories for Construction and Buying:
Separates, Ensembles, Dresses/Jumpers, Specialty/Formal
This is the "traditional" 4 H Fashion Show contest. 4 H members enter items that they hand sewed in the Construction division or enter the Buying division and participate in an interview where the describe their buying experience.

2. Accessory, Fabric, and Fashion Design
Do you like to design and sketch clothing, fabric and accessories? This contest is for you! Contestants will submit sketches to be judged along with samples of fabric they would choose. Super fun!

3. Textile Show
Jewelry, Household Item, Kitchen Item, Accessory Item, Embellished Item, Holiday Textile Item
Did you prepare an item for the Youth Exhibit Hall that would fit into this contest? You are welcome to enter the same item at this show!

Consider these contests with your parent and call Gretchen for forms and individual help. I am available after school to meet with 4 H members to get ready for this fabulous contest.

2010 4 H Photography Contest
Registration for the District Photography Contest will be held on 4 H Connect March 1 15, 2010. Cost for registration will be $5.00 per person. Late registration will be open March 16 17, 2010 with an additional late fee of $5.00.
Age Divisions:
The age divisions for District 10 4 H Photography Contest are as follows.
Junior – 8 and in the 3rd grade to 10 years old as of August 31, 2009
Intermediate – 11 13 as of August 31, 2009
Senior – 14 19 as of August 31, 2009

Submitting Photos & Number of Entries:
Photos are to be MAILED or delivered to the Uvalde County Extension Office, postmarked by March 15, 2010. Any photos postmarked after March 15 will be disqualified from the contest.
Each 4 H member may enter up to 4 photos. Photos DO NOT have to be in different categories (i.e. 4 H’er may enter 4 color landscape photos). There is also a District Category called Creative Display. This category allows 4’Hers to show their creativity with photos in a scrapbook layout. In addition to the 4 photos, a 4 H member may enter one item in the Creative Display category. If a 4 H’er submits more than 4 photos, it will be up to the committee’s discretion as to which 4 photos will be judged.

Be A Part of the Alpaca Show

2010-02-01T06:39:00.000-08:00

Alpaca Show in Fredericksburg, be a part of the show
What: Alpaca Show
Where: Fredericksburg
When: May 7th, 8th & 9th, 2010

Information:
Larry Hauptrief, of Thousand Oaks Alpacas, HOME OF SNOWMASS XXXTREME, has invited the Blanco County 4-H’ers to be involved in this show. Gillespie County 4-H’ers will also participate in the show. As a participant, you will be showing the animals for the owners and giving input from the judging point of view.
Mr. Hauptrief and his associates will be offering a competition for those who want to train and show alpacas in sort of an obstacle course setting. The obstacle course competition is designed to allow the 4-H’ers to work with and train an alpaca before the show and demonstrate their training abilities. There will be prizes for this part of the show.
In preparation for the obstacle course competition, various alpaca ranches in this area will offer the 4-H’ers the opportunity to spend time with an alpaca that they pick, say from our ranch, to work with and train. In some cases, we may allow the child to take the alpaca home to work with it for a period of time before the show date.
Mr. Hauptrief would like to bring a few alpacas to the 4-H Meetings, to share information on the background of alpacas. He will also bring some fleece off his animals and some products that have been made with alpaca fleece. He will show some of the ways fleece is processed to produce various products from it.
Mr. Hauptrief also has an adoption opportunity for 4-H’ers as well and will explain this offer further with the groups and on an individual basis.
If you are interested in participating in this show, or having Mr. Hauptrief bring an alpaca to your next meeting, please contact the Extension Office at 830-838-7167.

4-H Craft Night February 23

2010-02-01T06:38:00.000-08:00

4-H Craft Night
When: February 23rd-5:30 to 6:30 pm
Where: County Annex Conference Room
Come join in the fun as we create - Domino Charms!
Bring a few favorite stickers and $2.00 for supplies.

4-H Training Dates

2010-02-01T06:37:00.000-08:00

Location: Courthouse Annex, Johnson City
All trainings will be held at 6:30 pm
March 1, 2010
May 3, 2010
July 6, 2010
September 7, 2010
November 1, 2010

District 10 4-H 2010 Dates

2010-02-01T06:36:00.000-08:00

February 11th, 2010: Horse Judging @ San Antonio (SALE)
April 24, 2010: Roundup, including the following: Educational Presentations, Public Speaking, Share the Fun, Beef Quiz Bowl, Horse Quiz Bowl and Swine Skill-A-Thon
April 10, 2010: at Texas State-Consumer Judging (AM) & Fashion Show, Textile Show, Fabric & Fashion Design (PM)
April 17, 2010: District 10 County Rifle Context
May 1, 2010: District 10 County-Judging Contests including Meats Judging, Livestock, Entomology, Soils, Range Evaluations, Range & Pasture Grass ID, Wool and Mohair Judging-Fredericksburg
June 21-23: Leadership Lab @ T-Bar M Resort-New Braunfels
July 8th, 2010: Recordbook Judging & Junior Leader Rally-Helotes, Texas
August 28, 2010: Mega Meeting

La Quinta discounts for Texas 4-H supporters

2010-02-01T06:35:00.000-08:00

Save 15% on Your Next Stay at La Quinta Inns
La Quinta Inns & Suites is proud to be a part of an Alliance Agreement with the Texas 4-H Organization. Supporters can enjoy a 15% discount at any of their over 700-plus locations in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
When making reservations, make sure you choose the “YOUTH DISCOUNT” code: TX4H

Roundup Training

2010-02-01T06:34:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered what Roundup is and how you can participate? Gretchen will head you in an exciting workshop on public speaking and give you details on District 10 4-H Roundup.
February 9th, 2010-6:00 pm at the County
Annex Conference Room

*PLEASE RSVP BY FEBRUARY 8TH, AT NOON

Blanco County 4-H Dates to Remember

2010-02-01T06:32:00.000-08:00

June 7th: Blanco County 4-H Awards Banquet
June 14th: 4-H Club Officer Training
September 1st: Big Bash/Enrollment Night-5-6:30 at the Blanco County Fairgrounds

Alpaca Show in Fredericksberg-be a part of the show

2010-01-06T08:29:00.000-08:00

What: Alpaca Show
Where: Fredericksburg
When: May 7,8,9, 2010

Information: Larry Hauptrief, of Thousand Oaks Alpacas, HOME OF SNOWMASS XXXTREME, has invited the Blanco County 4-H’ers to be involved in this show. Gillespie County 4-H’ers will also participate in the show. As a participant, you will be showing the animals for the owners and giving input from the judging point of view.

Mr. Hauptrief and his associates will be offering a competition for those who want to train and show alpacas in sort of an obstacle course setting. The obstacle course competition is designed to allow the 4-H’ers to work with and train an alpaca before the show and demonstrate their training ablilties. There will be prizes for this part of the show.

In preparation for the obstacle course competition, various alpaca ranches in this area will offer the 4-H’ers the opportunity to spend time with an alpaca that they pick, say from our ranch, to work with and train. In some cases, we may allow the child to take the alpaca home to work with it for a period of time before the show date.

Mr. Hauptrief would like to bring a few alpacas to the 4-H Meetings, to share information on the background of alpacas. He will also bring some fleece off his animals and some products that have been made with alpaca fleece. He will show some of the ways fleece is processed to produce various products from it.

Mr. Hauptrief also has an adoption opportunity for 4-H’ers as well and will explain this offer further with the groups and on an individual basis.

If you are interested in participating in this show, or having Mr. Hauptrief bring an alpaca to your next meeting, please contact the Extension Office at 830-838-7167.

Soaring Eagles Meeting Wednesday, January 6th

2010-01-05T10:49:00.000-08:00

The Soaring Eagles 4-H club will meet at 5:30 pm on January 6th.
Where: Blanco County Exhibit Hall at the fairgrounds.

Blanco County Youth Stock Show Rule Book

2009-12-21T09:03:00.000-08:00

For information on the 2010 Blanco County Youth Stock Show, please refer to the Rule Book.
You can find the rule book at our website:
http://blanco-co.tamu.edu
click on Publications
Select 4-H & Youth Development
Select Blanco County Youth Stock Show Rule Book

2010 4-H Photography Contest

2009-12-21T07:58:00.000-08:00

Registration for the District Photography Contest will be held on 4-H Connect, March 1-15, 2010. Cost for registration will be $5.00 per person. Late registration will be open March 16-17, 2010 with an additional late fee of $5.00.

For more information, please see the January issue of 4-H Newsletter or contact Gretchen Sanders at the Extension Office: 830-868-7167.

2010 Fashion Show & Textile Show

2009-12-21T07:47:00.000-08:00

April 17, 2010
Fredericksburg Middle School
Registration: March 15-April 5, via 4-H Connect
Fees: $5.00

See January 4-H Newsletter for more information or call Gretchen at the Extension office 830-868-7167

January 4th: 4-H Training-MANDATORY

2009-12-21T07:45:00.000-08:00

Who: All 4-H Club Managers and Council Delegates
When: Monday, January 4, 2010
Where: Blanco County Annex
Agenda: Concesssion Stand schedule
Annual Review of Support Group Fund (e-mailed to all club managers on 12/18/09.

Shooting Sports First Meeting Scheduled

2009-12-21T07:37:00.000-08:00

The Shooting Sports Club will be holding their 1st meeting of the season on January 5th, at the Showbarn, located at the Blanco County Fairgrounds.

You will need to bring Paper and a Pen.

Hill Country Spurs Dates to Remember

2009-12-16T11:06:00.000-08:00

MARK YOUR CALENDERS - Upcoming dates to be aware of:

December 28 HC Horse Judging Training
Attendance is mandatory for all Horse Judgers.
All other club members are more than welcome to attend.
Whittington Ranch, Johnson City
6 pm - 8 pm

January 2 Blanco County 4-H Stock Show - WORK DAY
Blanco County Show Barn, Johnson City, TX
9 am - 10 am

January 4 4-H Council Delegate/Manager Training
Blanco County Courthouse Annex, Johnson City, TX
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm

January 4 DEADLINE for Blanco County 4-H Stock Show Exhibit Hall entries

January 5 NO Arena Ride this month

January 9 Blanco County 4-H Stock Show - WORK DAY
Blanco County Show Barn, Johnson City, TX
9 am - 10 am

January 13-16 Blanco County 4-H Stock Show
Blanco County Show Barn, Johnson City, TX

January 17 Blanco County 4-H Stock Show - CLEAN UP DAY
Blanco County Show Barn, Johnson City, TX
1 pm

January 19 HCS Monthly Meeting
Guest: David Fry, DVM - Float Demo / Nutrition
Blanco County Exhibit Hall
6:30 pm

January 24 HC Horse Judging Training
Attendance is mandatory for all Horse Judgers.
All other club members are more than welcome to attend.
Klepac Ranch, Blanco
2 pm - 4 pm

Blanco County Youth Stock Show Work/Pay information

2009-12-14T08:00:00.000-08:00

Exhibitor Check Release Policy
Checks from the sale of projects will be released on the following schedule and dependent on the number of work days the individual helps to prepare or clean up for the Stock Show. Three Work Days – 1st Check Release Two Work Days – 2nd Check Release (14 days later) One Work Day – 3rd Check Release (14 days after 2nd release)

For further information, please check the Rule Book or call
Peggy Wallace @ 830-833-5335 or Kip Thompson @ 868-2701 (BCYC President)

Mark Your Calendars for future events

2009-12-14T07:40:00.000-08:00

BLANCO 4-H 2009-2010 DATES
June 7, 2010: Awards Banquet
June 14, 2010: 4-H Club Officer Training
September 1: Enrollment Night

Texas 4-H Schoarships

2009-12-14T07:37:00.000-08:00

It is not too early for you Seniors to be thinking about your Texas 4-H Scholarship application. The Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays are perfect time to get to work.
Applications and information can be retrieved from:
http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/youth/scholarships/index_youth_scholarships.php
Scholarships Available:
The Texas 4-H Opportunity Scholarship Program provides scholarships in four different areas. Each type of scholarship has its own requirements and criteria. It is up to the applicant to make sure that he/she clearly understands the requirements and completes the application in order to be considered.
Baccalaureate Scholarships - the traditional Texas 4-H Scholarship Program, for students who wish to pursue a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree.
Technical Certification Scholarships - for students who wish to pursue technical certification offered in the eligible majors/courses of study and from an approved Texas accredited college listed in the scholarship packet.
Courageous Heart Scholarships – special scholarships awarded to Texas 4-H members that have overcome extreme obstacles related to medical, family, and/or education and remained an active member of both 4-H and school. (See additional instructions).

Exhibit Hall Information

2009-12-14T07:35:00.000-08:00

January 14-15, 2010
Entries due: Monday, January 4 by Noon
$7 entry fee
Entry forms and Rules are available at: blanco-co.tamu.edu (or we have some at the Extension office).
The Youth Exhibit Hall is a chance for 4-H, FFA and FCCLA members to compete in categories such as Foods, Home Canned Products, Sewing, Hobbies, Fine Art, and Educational Exhibits. New categories for 2010 include: mini scrapbooks, doll making, jewelry and computer generated art. Awards for winners include ribbons, rosettes, and embroidered tote bags. A Senior “Best in Show” winner and a Junior “Best in Show” winner will both be eligible for the Stock Show Sale on Saturday, January 16. The sweepstakes winners are chosen through a weighted point system based on the number of entries in each category. For example, if there are 5 entries in the cookie category 1st place will receive 5 points and 5th place will receive 1 point.
All participants are eligible to put their entries in the silent auction that runs Friday through Saturday.

Youth Stock Show Jan 14-16, 2010

2009-12-14T07:33:00.000-08:00

Youth Stock Show, January 14-16, 2010

Projects may be entered by active 4-H and FFA members enrolled in the Blanco County School Districts or an accredited home school program in the Blanco County School Districts, or an accredited private school in the State of Texas as long as the student resides in the Blanco County School District. Each project must be under the supervision of the County Extension Agents or the Agricultural Science Teachers before being eligible for entry.

All participants must meet Academic Eligibility guidelines as outlined by the Texas Education Agency’s

“No Pass, No Play Policy”
The Extension office will check exhibitor’s eligibility by contacting the exhibitor’s school.

2009-12-14T07:32:00.000-08:00

4-H TRAINING DATES Location: Courthouse Annex, Johnson City All trainings
will be held at 6:30 pm
January 4, 2010
March 1, 2010
May 3, 2010
July 6, 2010
September 7, 2010
November 1, 2010

See you there!

Important Dates for District 10 4-H

2009-12-14T07:31:00.000-08:00

DISTRICT 10 4-H 2009-2010 DATES

February 5th, 2010:Dairy Judging @ San Antonio (SALE)
February 11th, 2010: Horse Judging @ San Antonio (SALE)
April 1-24, 2010: Roundup, including the following: Educational Presentations, Public Speaking, Share the Fun, Beef Quiz Bowl, Horse Quiz Bowl and Swine Skill-A-Thon
April 10, 2010: at Texas State-Consumer Judging (AM) & Fashion Show, Textile Show, Fabric & Fashion Design (PM)
April 17, 2010: Wilson County Rifle Context
May 1, 2010: Gillespie County-Judging Contests including Meats Judging, Livestock, Entomology, Soils, Range Evaluations, Range & Pasture Grass ID, Wool and Mohair Judging.
June 21-23: Leadership Lab @ 4-H Center
Recordbook Judging & Junior Leader Rally-date & location not determined yet.

2010 District 10-Dairy and Horse Judging

2009-12-14T07:22:00.000-08:00

2010 District 10 Dairy and Horse Judging
When: Feb 5th, 2010 8am-5pm-Dairy
When: Feb 11, 2010 8am-5pm-Horse
Where: San Antonio
Registration Dates:

General Registration: 01/04/2010—1/22/2010
Late Registration: 01/22/2010—1/26/2010

The District 10 Dairy Judging contest will be held in conjunction with the SALE Dairy Judging Contest on Friday, February 5, 2010. Horse Judging will be held in conjunction with the SALE Horse Judging contest on Thursday, February 11. For more information, please contact the Extension Office @ 830-868-7167

National 4-H Center Work Opportunity for summer

2009-12-14T07:18:00.000-08:00

Work at the National 4-H Center this summer??
Here’s an opportunity for 4-H’ers to work at the National 4-H Center this summer! Do you know a 4-H’er who has a passion for government, history, political science, working with youth, public speaking, or leadership? If so, they may want to apply for the position of Program Assistant (PA) at the National 4-H Youth Conference Center! Application deadlines are approaching soon and we want to give 4-H alumni and Collegiate 4-H’ers an opportunity to make a difference during their spring or summer semester.
We are looking for individuals with at least a high school diploma (preferably some college experience) and a passion for youth development , hospitality, teaching, history, politics, or leadership. If you know a college student looking for credit towards graduation, National 4-H Council will happily work with the student and the school to make this possible. Listed below is the link for information and application materials.
Citizenship Washington Focus Program Assistant: Application due January 18, 2010.
http://www.citizenshipwashingtonfocus.org/programassistant.aspx

For more information, please contact:
Molly Young Freeman Thompson
Director, Youth Opportunities Coordinator, Youth Opportunities
myyoung@4HCenter.org
fthompson@4HCenter.org
301-961-2812 301-961-2917

Hill Cuntry Spurs 4-H Annual Holiday Party December 15th

2009-12-14T07:09:00.000-08:00

A reminder to the Hill Country Spurs 4-H Annual Holiday Party is next Tuesday, December 15th, 2009, hosted at the Whittington's Barn at 6:00 pm.

Pot luck meal

For more information, contact:
Amy Yachimski @ 512-934-8449

Traci Smith @ 512-626-0098

April Klepac @ 830-385-1404/830-833-4638

4-H HAS TALENT

2009-11-06T12:54:00.000-08:00

Do you have what it takes to be a star? Have you always pictured yourself performing on the “Big Stage?” If so, the 2010 Texas 4-H Roundup 4-H Has Talent Competition is for you. Get the chance to show your skills on stage in front of nearly 3,000 fellow 4-Hers, parents/volunteers, and 4-H faculty. So sing a song, do a dance, tell a joke or just do something unusual.
How to get involved
Submit a video ﬁle no longer than ﬁve minutes in length of your best talent.
Submissions must be appropriate for 4-H youth.
A 4-H member may only participate on one team/entry.
Intermediate and Senior aged 4-H members are allowed to participate in this activity
Teams maybe one age category or a combination of both intermediates and seniors.
An individual and/or team may only submit one video.
Ten ﬁnalists will be selected from their peers using an online voting system as well as an expert panel of judges.
Those ten ﬁnalists will then have the opportunity to perform on Wednesday, June 9, 2009t at the Wednesday night assembly in Rudder Theater at Texas A&M University.
Aft er all ﬁnalists are ﬁnished performing, the audience will have the opportunity to vote via text messaging to select their winner.

Deadline for Submission
• All entries must be received in the State 4-H Oﬃce by March 19, 2010
Submission Guidelines
Maximum size: 2GB Maximum Length: 5 minutes
Accepted File Formats: Windows Media (.WMV) or .AVI
Videos must be submitted via e-mail or mail to:
Via e-mail: Kyle Merten at
kjmerten@ag.tamu.edu
U.S. Mail: Kyle Merten
7607 Eastmark Drive, Suite 101
College Station, TX 77840
Saved on a CD (DVDs will not be accepted)

*PLEASE INCLUDE IN YOUR ENTRY THE FOLLOWING:
*NAME OF GROUP/ACT
*NAMES OF EACH PARTICIPANT AND AGE
*COUNTY REPRESENTING
*CONTACT PERSON

FOLLOWING INFORMATION FOR CONTACT:
*ADDRESS
*CITY/STATE/ZIP
*PHONE

Texas 4-H Scholarships

2009-11-06T12:50:00.000-08:00

It is not too early for you Seniors to be thinking about your Texas 4-H Scholarship application.
The Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays are perfect time to get to work.

Applications and information can be retrieved from:
http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/youth/scholarships/index_youth_scholarships.php
Scholarships Available:
The Texas 4-H Opportunity Scholarship Program provides scholarships in four different areas. Each type of scholarship has its own requirements and criteria. It is up to the applicant to make sure that he/she clearly understands the requirements and completes the application in order to be considered.
Baccalaureate Scholarships - the traditional Texas 4-H Scholarship Program, for students who wish to pursue a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree.

Technical Certification Scholarships - for students who wish to pursue technical certification offered in the eligible majors/courses of study and from an approved Texas accredited college listed in the scholarship packet.

Courageous Heart Scholarships – special scholarships awarded to Texas 4-H members that have overcome extreme obstacles related to medical, family, and/or education and remained an active member of both 4-H and school. (See additional instructions).

Collegiate Scholarships - designated for former Texas 4-H members who have graduated from high school and have completed a minimum of 30 hours of college credit at a grade point average of at least 2.5. (See separate application and instructions).
The Blanco County deadline will be: February 1, 2010 by Noon.

Project? What's a Project?

2009-11-03T14:25:00.000-08:00

4-H projects are the educational experiences that youth who are members of 4-H participate in. Typically, all projects must consist of at least five learning experiences that last from 30 minutes to one hour and include the assistance of an adult or leader.

Learning experiences include:

*Hands-on activities: making, producing, selling, practicing, observing, testing, interviewing, etc.

*Organized activities: demonstrations, speeches, workshops, camps, county judging contests, project activities, exhibits, etc.

* Leadership/Citizenship activities: conducting, planning, teaching, assisting, informing, organizing, etc.

* Community service: volunteering, serving, helping, collecting, reflecting, donating, etc.

Important Broiler Information

2009-11-03T14:21:00.000-08:00

For those of you who ordered Broilers, please mail, or bring your payment to the Extension Office as soon as you can.

This year, the order must be paid 3 weeks in advance to our supplier (this is a new procedure for us). The chicks cost $1.30 each. Make check out to “County 4-H”. Todd will pick up the Broilers and have them at the Extension
Office on December 2nd, around 4:30-5:00pm for you to pick up, so mark your calendar and bring boxes for your chicks if at all possible.

November Fourth Tuesday Fun

2009-11-03T14:14:00.000-08:00

FOURTH TUESDAY FUN
SCRAPBOOKING
Start the Thanksgiving Holiday off right with Fourth Tuesday Fun! November 24th, at the Extension Office 5-6pm

Bring:
1. Several pictures with the same theme (birthday parties, Christmas, 4-H)
2. Three to four sheets of coordinating scrapbook paper
3. Coordinating stickers (check for sales at Hobby Lobby or Michaels for these items)

PLEASE RSVP TO GRETCHEN AT THE EXTENSION OFFICE BY NOVEMBER 20TH!

4-H Rabbit Projects

2009-11-03T14:11:00.000-08:00

Rabbits will arrive around Thanksgiving weekend with validation being the first weekend in December. Make sure to review this year’s rule book as a few small changes have been made regarding min and max weight ranges. The Blanco County Youth Stock Show Rule Book can be found on our local website.

Dairy & Horse Judging dates

2009-11-03T12:59:00.000-08:00

2010 District 10 Dairy and Horse Judging
When: Feb 11, 2010 8am-5pm
Where: San Antonio
Registration Dates:
General Registration: 01/04/2010—1/22/2010
Late Registration: 01/22/2010—1/26/2010
The District 10 Dairy Judging contest will be held in conjunction with the SALE Dairy Judging Contest on Friday, February 5,
2010. Horse Judging will be held in conjunction with the SALE Horse Judging contest on Thursday, February 11. For more information, please call the Extension office @ 830-868-7167.

What about Dairy Goats?

2009-11-03T12:56:00.000-08:00

DAIRY GOATS
Are you interested in learning about Dairy Goats as a 4-H project? If so, call the Extension Office @ 830-868-7167. We have a leader to lead a Dairy Goat Project.

Deadline for Major Stock Shows: November 17

2009-11-03T12:51:00.000-08:00

Deadline for Major Show Entries (except Ft. Worth)
This years Major Stock Show for 4-H members will be held on Tuesday, November 17th, at the Extension Office. We will have all entry forms and paper work available for you to come by and complete from 3:00 pm to
7:00 pm. If you are unable to make that date, please call us to make arrangements for your entries to be completed at 830-868-7167

Ft. Worth deadline is November 9th.

Have you completed your 4-H Member Form?

2009-11-03T11:57:00.000-08:00

WANTED: 2009-2010 4-H MEMBER APPLICATIONS…
If you have not completed and turned in your 4-H application for the
2009-2010 year, please do so as soon as possible.
You can get applications from your Club Manager or from the Extension Office-you
can even sign up on the web. Don’t forget, if your
application is not current in 4-H Connect, you will not be able to compete in
ANY 4-H event. Also, addresses for the 4-H Newsletter are pulled from the 4-H Connect
program-so to receive your newsletter (by mail), your application needs
to be in the 4-H Connect program. Please let us know if you would prefer to view your Newsletter on the web instead of by US mail.

3rd Annual Texas A&M AgriLIFE Photo Contest

2009-11-03T09:03:00.000-08:00

Have you made plans to enter the 3rd annual Texas A&M AgriLife Photo Contest?

It's not too late -- Anyone can enter!

The deadline to submit your favorite photo is Monday, November 23rd at 5:00 p.m.

Contest Forms, Guidelines & Rules, and 2009 photo award winners
are available on the AgriLife.org website at
http://agrilife.tamu.edu/communications/photocontest

You may also view 2008 photo award winners at
http://www.flickr.com/photos/agrilife/sets/72157619965928698

* * * * * * *

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Photo Contest is being held in conjunction with the
2010 Texas A&M AgriLife Conference
January 11 - 15, 2010 in College Station, Texas

Reminder - The deadline for submitting a request to host a meeting/workshop is Monday, November 9
[a conference outline and meeting/workshop request forms are attached]

____________________________________

Patricia W. Gerling M.Ed. '04
Assistant Vice Chancellor for University and System Relations
Texas A&M AgriLife

2147 TAMU | College Station, TX 77843-2147
979.845.4756 | 979.845.0181 FAX
p-gerling@tamu.edu
http://agrilife.tamu.edu

NOTE NEW OFFICE LOCATION: Room 208, Wells Fargo Building, Bryan - Texas
_________________________________
P Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail

Correction on Horse Judging @ San Antonio (SALE)

2009-11-03T08:54:00.000-08:00

Please change the date in your newsletter for the Horse Judging @ San Antonio (SALE). The date should be February 11th, not February 5th.

Thanks,
Extension Office

BROILER DELIVERY DATE DECEMBER 2ND

2009-10-19T08:53:00.000-07:00

BABY CHICKS WILL BE AT THE EXTENSION OFFICE ON WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2ND BETWEEN 4PM-5PM. BRING A BOX FOR YOUR CHICKS IF YOU CAN. ALSO, IF YOU HAVE NOT PAID FOR YOUR CHICK ORDER YET, PAYMENT WILL BE DUE AT TIME OF PICK UP.

UPCOMING 4-H TRAINING DATE

2009-10-19T08:50:00.000-07:00

THE NEXT 4-H TRAINING DATE IS SCHEDULED FOR NOVEMBER 2, 2009 AT THE COURTHOUSE ANNEX IN JOHNSON CITY AT 6:30 PM.

LAMB/HOG VALIDATIONS AND RABBIT ARRIVAL

2009-10-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

OCTOBER 26TH 3PM-6PM: LAMB VALIDATION AT JOHNSON CITY SHOW BARN

NOVEMBER 22 1PM-5PM: HOG VALIDATION AT AG SHOP, BLANCO HIGH SCHOOL

RABBITS WILL BE ARRIVING AROUND THANKSGIVING WEEKEND WITH VALIDATION BEING THE FIRST WEEKEND IN DECEMBER.

GOAT FEEDING AND SHOWMANSHIP CLINIC-OCTOBER 19, 2009

2009-10-13T12:03:00.000-07:00

This is an excellent opportunity to hear from experts on goat project feeding,
fitting and showing.
Tate Randall with Randall Show Goats and Kevin Mock with Show Rite Feeds will be
presenting information on Managing Your Goat Projects.
This clinic will be held at Tate Randall’s Barn, October 19, 2009 at 6:30 pm.
Mr. Randall’s barn is located on Hwy 290, west of Johnson city, at the Sandy Road
cutoff (Hwy 1320).
*Bring your goat along to practice showmanship if you want to.
Hope to see you there,
Todd Swift
Ag Extension Agent,
Blanco County

4th Annual Triple L Booster Club Cowboy classic Goat & Lamb Prospect Show

2009-10-13T11:46:00.000-07:00

Atascosa County Showbarn
December 12th, 2009-Saturday
*Entry fee-$15.00(postmarked Dec 3rd-late entries are $20.00) (NO REFUNDS)
*Concession Stand will be available
*Ring A only, this is not a point show
*Lamb Classes: Southdown, Fine Wool, Cross & Medium Wool
*Goat & Lamb Judge-Bryan Bernhard
*Super K Enterprises will be on site for your last minute Show Supply purchases
*Contact Mark Bauer for more information @ 210-827-3999 or email address: bauer3006@msn.com

We have entry forms at the Blanco County Extension Office, give us a call if you want to pick up a form. Call us @ 830-868-7167
Entry forms are to be mailed to :
Triple L Booster Club/PO Box 65/Pleasanton, TX 78064

*Check In:
7:30am-8:30am Lamb check in
8:30am-9:30am Goat check in
10:00am-Show will begin

Awards:
*Showmanship jackpot will be awarded to 1st & 2nd
*Buckles for Overall Grand Champion & Reserve Goat & Lamb
*Prized to all 1st place winners
*Ribbons awarded up to 10th place

FOURTH TUESDAY FUN IS BACK

2009-10-01T13:05:00.000-07:00

5-6PM OCTOBER 27TH
Blanco County Courthouse Annex, Johnson City
“Super foods”-come find out about nutritionally charged foods that pack a punch, health-wise. We’ll discuss avocados, blueberries and other foods that you’ll love (or learn to love!)
**PLEASE RSVP to Gretchen**

DISTRICT 10 4-H FOOD SHOW - DECEMBER 5

2009-10-01T13:04:00.000-07:00

Saturday, December 5, 2009
WHERE: LBJ Student Center, Texas State University — San Marcos, Texas
8:30 am to 2 pm
Categories include: Main Dish, Fruit & Vegetable, Bread & Cereal, and Nutritious Snacks. You must work personally with Gretchen or a Food & Nutrition project leader to be eligible.
Food Challenge
Modeled after such competitions as the Food Network’s Iron Chef, the 4-H Food Challenge allows teams of 4-H members to create a dish using only a predetermined amount of ingredients. From these ingredients, 4-H members must identify, prepare and then present information related to the serving size, nutritional value, and cost of the dish. Through out this energized process, the 4-H members are demonstrating their culinary and food safety skills to judges and on-lookers.
Are you interested in participating on a Food Challenge team? Call Gretchen to register and discuss practices.

BROILER ORDER PAYMENTS & DELIVERY DATE

2009-10-01T13:03:00.000-07:00

For those of you who ordered Broilers, please mail, or bring your payment to the Extension Office as soon as you can. The chicks cost $1.30 each. Make check out to “County 4-H”. Todd will pick the Broilers up and have them at the Extension Office on December 2nd, for you to pick up (so mark your calendar).

JUNIOR LEADERSHIP RETREAT-NOV 6-8

2009-10-01T12:46:00.000-07:00

Junior Leadership Retreat
November 6-8, 2009

Texas 4-H Conference Center, Brownwood
Date: November 6-8, 2009

Who? Junior age 4-H members, 9-14 and Adult sponsors (members MUST BE UNDER 14 YEARS OF AGE AND BE IN 4-H TO ATTEND THIS TRAINING).

Why? Develop leadership skills through workshops and hands-on learning experiences

How? Register at the Extension Office before OCTOBER 8TH

Cost? $120.00 Youth, $80.00 Adults
(includes 2 nights lodging, 4 meals, two evening snacks & programming fees.

The program will begin on Friday night with sessions so make every effort to be there by 8:00 p.m.!

Participants will engage in workshops in public speaking, teamwork and group facilitation, character education, decision making and other related topics.

Contact Gretchen at the Extension office for more information including agenda, packing lists and other details.

WANTED: 4-H APPLICATIONS FOR 2009-2010 YEAR

2009-10-01T12:44:00.000-07:00

4-H APPLICATIONS NEEDED

If you have not completed and turned in your 4-H application for the 2090-2010 year, please do so as soon as possible. You can get applications from you Club Manager or from the Extension Office. Don’t forget, if your application is not current in 4-H Connect, you will not be able to compete in ANY 4-H event.

Also, addresses for the 4-H Newsletter are pulled from the 4-H Connect program-so to receive your newsletter in the future, your application needs to be in the 4-H Connect program.

Rabbits

2009-10-01T12:43:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in showing rabbits this year, and would like us to add you to the “Find Rabbits List”, please contact our office as soon as possible. Mr. Uecker will again be reserving rabbits from reputable rabbit breeders that have quality show stock. This year’s rabbits will cost $40.00 a piece, with an order usually being 4 rabbits. Payment will need to be made at time you place your order. The rabbits will arrive around Thanksgiving weekend with validation being the first weekend in December. Make sure to review this year’s rule book as a few small changes have been made regarding min and max weight ranges. The Blanco County Youth Stock Show Rule Book can be found on our local website.
*Things to Remember: Time for Breeding Rabbits to have correct age bunnies for the Blanco County Stock Show is:
OCTOBER 11-17TH.
This breeding date will have the bunnies approximately 70 days of age at time of the show.

VALIDATION DATES

2009-10-01T12:41:00.000-07:00

Official Validation dates: (please make note of these important dates, to avoid last minute chaos).

*GOATS: OCTOBER 12, 2009 3PM TO 6PM AT JOHNSON CITY SHOW BARN
*LAMBS: OCTOBER 26, 2009 3PM TO 6PM AT JOHNSON CITY SHOW BARN
*HOGS: NOVEMBER 22, 2009 1PM TO 5PM AT THE AG SHOP AT BLANCO HIGH SCHOOL
(HOG TAG ORDER DEADLINE WAS SEPTEMBER 25, 2009)

**THIS YEAR, ALL TAGS WILL BE PAID FOR AT TIME OF VALIDATION** $7.00 tags, $7.00 validation

Rabbit Rule Changes for Blanco County Youth Stock Show

2009-09-25T09:41:00.000-07:00

Please note the changes that have been made to the Rabbit Division of the Blanco County Youth Stock Show.
Maximum Number of Entries: 2 pens (3 rabbits per pen)
Weight Limit: Minimum 3 lbs & maximum of 6 lbs per rabbit
Owned & On-Feed BY: December 5

1. Must be purebred
2. Must be 58-80 days old on show day
3. Rabbits must be validated and tatooed by December 5. The CEA and ASTs must verify birth of rabbits.
4. Pens must consist of 3 rabbits of the same age and each rabbit must be tattooed in one ear.
5. Rabbits may be sifted by the judge for poor quality or being overage or underage.
6. Clases will be split at the discretion of the Rabbit Show Committee.
7. No resale/floor will be available for rabbits.

You can find this information and all other Rules in the 2010 Blanco County Youth Stock Show Rule Book, posted on our website: http://blanco-co.tamu.edu

4-H Member Applications for 2009-2010 year

2009-09-16T12:10:00.000-07:00

It's time to fill out your 4-H Member Applications and return them to the Extension office. You can get them from your club manager, or we have copies at the Extension office. You can also go online, to 4-H Connect and just update your last years application. If you are new to 4-H and want to sign up "On Line" go to our website at http://blanco-co.tamu.edu. Go to 4-H Connect and create a FAMILY ACCOUNT FIRST, then add members to your family account. Give us a call if you need help and we will walk you through the process.

The Extension office is updating the 4-H mailing list for our monthly Newsletter and addresses are pulled from the 4-H Connect program. Newsletters will be sent to only the addresses that are produced by 4-H Connect, so please make sure your application gets turned in so you can receive current Newsletters.

If you have any questions,just give us a call at the Extension Office: 830-868-7167

Please keep in mind: You must be a current member for the 2009-2010 year to be eligible for competing in any 4-H event.

Swine Tag Orders Due

2009-09-16T12:05:00.000-07:00

It is now time to order SWINE TAGS.

Deadline is Friday, September 18th.

Please call the Extension Office to place your tag order as soon as possible.
at 830-868-7167

As noted in the September Newsletter, payment for tags will be collected at time of validation. Validation will be November 22, 2009

DEADLINE CHANGE FOR BROILER ORDER

2009-09-15T13:51:00.000-07:00

Please take note of the REVISED DEADLINE for Broiler Orders.

The deadline has changed from October 10th, to SEPTEMBER 30TH.

Please call the Extension Office to place your order BEFORE SEPTEMBER 30TH.

The cost of each broiler will be $1.30 each. This is for a wing band straight run bird.

Broilers will be in the Extension Office on DECEMBER 2ND ready to pick up.
Please have your payments ready at time of pick up.
If you have boxes to put your broilers in at time you pick them up, please bring them.

4-H Rabbit Projects

2009-09-14T12:34:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in showing rabbits this year, and would like us to add you to the list to find rabbits for, please contact our office as soon as possible. Mr. Uecker will again be reserving rabbits from reputable rabbit breeders that have quality show stock. This year’s rabbits will cost $40.00 a piece, with an order usually being 4 rabbits.

Payment will need to be made at the time you place your order.

The rabbits will arrive around Thanksgiving weekend with validation being the first weekend in December. Make sure to review this year’s rule book as a few small changes have been made regarding min and max weight ranges.
Thanks,

Todd Swift, Agriculture Agent
Texas AgriLIFE Extention Service, Blanco County
Phone#830-868-7167

4-H Animal Training Demonstration

2009-09-14T10:03:00.000-07:00

4-H Animal Training Demonstration
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
6:30 pm

Have you ever heard of clicker training? Dog trainers have been using clicker training techniques for years. Today, most all show dogs are trained using these techniques.

Candee Bishea has agreed to do a demonstration on clicker training for our 4-H youth.

We will do this at her house tomorrow at 6:30pm. Candee lives west of town off Klett Ranch Rd. If traveling toward Fredericksburg turn right off of Hwy. 290 at the Felps Trailer Mfg., take a left at the fork in the road. Go about a mile and turn left on Valley West Dr. This loop will take you to the location.

Please call 830-385-9286 if you have any trouble finding the location.

She has been working with 2 goats for about 3 weeks.

All you need to bring is your lawn chair and an open mind.

This is new and different to traditional livestock training.Desirable behavior is usually marked by using a "clicker," a mechanical device that makes a short, distinct "click" sound which tells the animal exactly when they're doing the right thing. This clear form of communication, combined with positive reinforcement, is an effective, safe, and humane way to teach any animal any behavior that it is physically and mentally capable of doing.
Hope to see you there,
Todd Swift

No Fourth Tuesday Fun for the month of September

2009-08-28T13:56:00.000-07:00

There will not be a Fourth Tuesday Fun Workshop in September. Stay tuned for the October workshop.

La Quinta discounts for Texas 4-H supporters

2009-08-28T13:52:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder: La Quinta Inns & Suites is proud to be a part of an Alliance Agreement with the Texas 4-H Organization. Supporters can enjoy a 15% discount at any of their over 700-plus locations in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

When making reservations, make sure you choose the "YOUTH DISCOUNT" code: TX4H

CALF SCRAMBLE COUNTDOWN

2009-08-28T13:51:00.000-07:00

ANY 4-H MEMBER INTERESTED IN THE CALF SCRAMBLE COMPETITION FOR ANY OF THE UPCOMING STOCK SHOWS SHOULD CONTACT THE EXTENSION OFFICE.

DISTRICT 10 4-H 2090-2010 DATES

2009-08-28T13:49:00.000-07:00

DISTRICT 10 4-H 2090-2010 DATES

October 17,2009: Gold Star Banquet
February 6,2010: Dairy Judging @ San Antonio (SALE)
February 11, 2010: Horse Judging @ San Antonio (SALE)
April 1-24, 2010: Roundup, including the following: Educational Presentations, Public Speaking, Share the Fun, Beef Quiz Bowl, Horse Quiz Bowl and Swine Skill-A-Thon
April 10, 2010: (at Texas State)-Consumer Judging (AM) & Fashion Show, Textile Show, Fabric & Fashion Design (PM)
April 17, 2010: Wilson County Rifle Context
May 1, 2010: Gillespie County-Judging Contests including Meats Judging, Livestock, Entomology, Soils, Range Evaluations, Range & Pasture Grass ID, Wool and Mohair Judging
June 21-23: Leadership Lab @ 4-H Center
Recordbook Judging & Junior Leader Rally-date & location not determined yet.

4-H Member Information

2009-08-28T13:43:00.000-07:00

4-H Member Information
For those 4-H members that do not attend the Big Bash Night on September 1st, you will need to renew your 4-H member application on 4-H Connect. Just log into 4-H Connect and follow the instructions.
IF you are new to 4-H, you will need to log in and Create a family account, then add family members to the family account.
(note: Please remember the email address you enter as the Family email. You will need this address to access your 4-H account on 4-H Connect-every time you log in).

You can access 4-H Connect through our website at: http://blanco-co.tamu.edu

**Other Information about 4-H**
Here’s some information you will need to know. Your Club Manager will cover this information with you, also.

*Review “Blanco County 4-H Member participation Guidelines”
*Review 4-H club Bylaws and Budget and approve
*Plan National 4-H Week activities for October
*Distribute M.A.P. (Member Achievement Plans) and explain how they are used to keep records for their 4-H projects
*Promote upcoming fall events and trainings

After the meeting:
*Turn in monthly attendance to the AgriLIFE Extension Office by:

Email: blanco-tx@tamu.edu
Phone: 830-868-7167
Mail: Texas AgriLIFE Extension Service, Blanco County
PO Box 189
Johnson City, TX. 78636

*Remember, if you are not currently enrolled, you may not show at the County Fair, or any Major Shows, so ask your manager for a member application, or complete a member application on 4-H Connect, found on our website:
http://blanco-co@tamu.edu.
If you have any problems completing your application on 4-H Connect, just give us a call at the Extension Office and we will be glad to walk you through it. 830-868-7167

If you do not have access to a computer, give us a call, we can help you get your 4-H application completed.

Breeding Rabbits for Blanco County Stock Show

2009-08-28T13:41:00.000-07:00

The time for Breeding Rabbits to have correct age bunnies for the Blanco County Stock Show is:
OCTOBER 11-17TH.
This breeding date will have the bunnies approximately 70 days of age at time of show.

Broiler Orders for Major Stock Shows & Blanco County Youth Stock Show

2009-08-28T13:37:00.000-07:00

BROILER ORDERS FOR MAJOR STOCK SHOWS & BLANCO COUNTY YOUTH STOCK SHOW
DEADLINE: OCTOBER 10TH
Cost: $1.30 per bird
No minimum order on County Orders.

CLUB MANAGER/COUNCIL DELEGATES 4-H TRAINING SCHEDULED

2009-08-28T13:34:00.000-07:00

4-H Training Scheduled for September 8th

Attn: All Club Managers and Council Delegates

Mandatory 4-H Training
When: September 8th at 6:30 pm
Where: Courthouse Annex, just down the hall from Texas AgriLife Extension Office

GOAT, LAMB & HOG VALIDATIONS

2009-08-28T13:27:00.000-07:00

VALIDATION DATES FOR GOATS, LAMBS AND HOGS
Official Validation dates: (please make note of these important dates, to avoid last minute chaos).

*GOATS: OCTOBER 12, 2009 3PM TO 6PM AT JOHNSON CITY SHOW BARN

*LAMBS: OCTOBER 26, 2009 3PM TO 6PM AT JOHNSO CITY SHOW BARN

*HOGS: NOVEMBER 22, 2009 1PM TO 5PM AT THE AG SHOP AT BLANCO HIGH SCHOOL
(HOG TAG ORDER DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 25, 2009)

**THIS YEAR, ALL TAGS WILL BE PAID FOR AT TIME OF VALIDATION** $7.00 tags, $7.00 validation

4-H Community Service idea

2009-08-11T08:13:00.000-07:00

On September 15, 2009, Gretchen will be conducting a Child Safety Seat Check-up Event where she will be inspecting child safety seats for anyone needing this service.

Gretchen will be looking for Adult volunteers to help her with this project and she will be providing lunch for the volunteers.

If any 4-H Members would like to help out by preparing sandwiches and chips to feed the Adult volunteers, it would be considered a "Community Service." She will need the help of about 10-12 youth volunteers for this service.

Call Gretchen to volunteer and for more details.

NO Fourth Tuesday Fun Workshop for the month of August

2009-07-31T13:30:00.000-07:00

With school starting up at the end of this month, Gretchen will not be conducting the Fourth Tuesday Fun project in August.

This workshop will be back in September, with a really cool project. Stay tuned to see what's coming up next, or take a look at the September issue of Blanco County 4-H Newsletter for more information.

Hope everyone is having a GGGRRRReeeeeeeaaat Summer.

Don't forget, the 10th Annual Wild Game Dinner: Saturday, October 3rd, 2009 at 5:00 pm

2009-07-31T13:18:00.000-07:00

For more information on this event, refer to the August edition of the 4-H Newsletter (page 5).
If you have any questions, call Peggy Wallace at 830-833-5335.

Results of 2009 District 10 4-H Record Book Judging

2009-07-31T13:07:00.000-07:00

Listed below are the Record Book Judging results held in Helotes on July 9th.

HORSE:
JUNIOR DIVISION: AVERY KLEPAC-3RD PLACE
INTERMEDIATE DIVISION: KENDRA SMITH-1ST PLACE
SENIOR DIVISION: ELIZABETH O'DAY-7TH PLACE

LEADERSHIP:
JUNIOR DIVISION: HARLEIGH KLEPAC-2ND PLACE

SHEEP:
INTERMEDIATE DIVISION: TYLER HARDIN-5TH PLACE

SHOOTING SPORTS;
JUNIOR DIVISION: ROSS SULTEMEIER-3RD PLACE
INTERMEDIATE DIVISION: LAYNE LASSBERG-4TH PLACE

WILDLIFE & FISHERIES:
INTERMEDIATE DIVISION: ALYSSA REDDEN-4TH PLACE
SENIOR DIVISION: TREVOR HARDIN-3RD PLACE

CONGRATULATIONS FOR ALL THE HARD WORK EVERYONE PUT INTO THEIR RECORD BOOKS!

REMINDER: Lamb & Goat Validation deadline: AUGUST 27, 2009

2009-07-31T13:02:00.000-07:00

Time is fast approaching for each of you to make decisions on how many tags you will need for the 2010 Lamb & Goat Validation program.

The deadline for ordering tags will be AUGUST 27TH, 2009

Tag orders must be made by this deadline in order to make sure our County order is submitted on time.

Tag cost will be $7.00 each. VALIDATION TAGS PAYMENT WILL BE DUE AT VALIDATION THIS YEAR.

Please consider your order early and let us know how many Lamb and Goat tags you will be needing.

Call the Extension office at 830-868-7167 to place your order.

4-H Shooting Sports Club Competes in International BB Gun Championship in Bowling Green, Kentucky

2009-07-31T12:55:00.000-07:00

The Blanco County 4-H Shooting Education BB Gun Team competed at the International BB Gun Championship Match on July 3-5, 2009, at the Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The team consisted of Chelsea Dowdy, Ryan Sultemeier, Layne Lassberg, Cliff Jones, Colton Barrow, Caleb Dowdy and Ross Sultemeier. Coached by Gordon Dowdy

This talented group of marksmen placed 23rd out of 42 experienced teams from around the United States and beyond. This is the first time Blanco County has had a team qualify for this high level of competition in this sport and the team was very excited and honored to represent our County and the State of Texas.
Thanks to DeAnn Dowdy for the picture posted on our 4-H Newsletter and for this article of this special group of 4-H members. GREAT JOB

THE 79TH BLANCO COUNTY FAIR & RODEO SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 13-15, 2009

2009-07-31T12:36:00.001-07:00

SEE THEIR WEBSITE AT: www.bcfra.org for rules, regulations and entry forms

Thursday:
7:00 pm: Youth Rodeo. Sign up at 5:30 to 6:30 pm at Rodeo Arena Office.

Contest divided into 3 groups:
Pee Wee: Age 10 and under
Junior: Age 11-14
Senior: Age 15-18

County Roping begins immediately after Youth Rodeo.

Friday:
7:00 pm: Jr. Lamb Show & Jr. Meat Goat Show. Sign up 6:00 pm.
Jr. Lamb Judge: Kyle Eckert
Jr. Meat Goat Judge: Eric Jons

Saturday:
1:00 pm: Jr. Steer & Heifer Show. Judge to be announced

Entry fees are as follows:
Jr. Steer: $10.00 per head
Jr. Lambs: $10.00 per head
Jr. Meat Goats: $10.00 per head

ENTRY FORMS CAN BE FOUND ON THE BLANCO COUNTY FAIR AND RODEO WEBSITE LISTED ABOVE, OR YOU CAN PICK UP AT THE EXTENSION OFFICE.

PLEASE TRY TO HAVE YOUR ENTRY FORMS COMPLETED BEFORE SIGNING UP, TO SAVE TIME.
(there will also be blank forms at sign-in for you, if needed)

WEIGHT WILL BE FILLED OUT AT SHOW.

2009 Blanco County Fair Exhibit Hall Theme- "A Country Picnic"

2009-07-31T12:32:00.000-07:00

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13
10:00 AM -- 7:00 PM: ENTRY CHECK-IN

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14
9:00 AM --NOON: JUDGING
3:00 PM -- 8:00 PM: OPEN TO PUBLIC

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15
11:30 AM -- 8:00 PM: OPEN TO PUBLIC

SUNDAY, AUGUST 16
12:00 NOON -- 1:30 PM: CHECK OUT

4-H BIG BASH-ENROLLMENT NIGHT FOR ALL 4-H MEMBERS AND NEW MEMBERS

2009-07-31T12:21:00.000-07:00

4-H Enrollment Night-All current 4-H members and new 4-H members must enroll for the 2009-2010 4-H year.

September 1, 2009

This event will be held at: Blanco County Fairgrounds-Extension Hall, Johnson City
5 pm to 7 pm Come and Go

You will be filling out 4-H member forms (green forms) and the Extension office staff will be there to help you fill them out.
We will also have Adult Volunteer Forms available for those parents who wish to participate in the 4-H clubs.

New forms need to be completed at the beginning of every new 4-H year and this will be the perfect time to get your form filled out and turned in, while visiting with other 4-H'ers over a bite to eat.

Free Hot Dogs served!

Check out all of the Blanco County 4-H Projects

Bring a friend and receive a gift!

Call 868-7167 to RSVP

Mega Meeting-CHANGES TO REGISTRATION PROCEDURE

2009-07-24T11:23:00.000-07:00

Our office has just been notified that there is a change in the way you will register for the upcoming MEGA MEETING, scheduled for August 29th

location: Kerrville, at the Schreiner University
(more information on 4-H Publications site or call the Extension office).

*Registration will NOT be done on 4-H Connect for Mega Meeting.

Registration will be submitted by Blanco County, so you will need to come by the Extension office and sign up or call us at 830-868-7167.

We will need to know if you will be attending FULL TIME REGISTRATION ($20.00) OR
PART TIME REGISTRATION ($8.00). You will need to pay for registration at time of sign up.

*Full time: (youth, adults and agents)- includes facilities fee, insurance, dinner, meal, one break, recreation activities

*Part time: (youth, adults, agents)- includes facilities fee, insurance, and one break.

Participants who do not pay the full time registration will not be permitted to participate in the evening activities.

We will take registration from August 1-17th. Please notify our office and pay by August 17, so we can make sure our County registration is mailed before our deadline.

*Individuals who decide to show up the day of Mega meeting will ONLY be allowed to register as a part time registrant because we must provide a meal count in advance for dinner. The cost for on site registration will be $13.00 per person -- and again -- will NOT include dinner or the dance.

For on site registration, payment by personal check, or EXACT CHANGE would be preferred.

PLEASE KEEP IN MIND: EARLY REGISTRATION WILL HELP IN THE PLANNING OF THIS MEETING.

Thanks! If you have any questions, please email or call the Extension office.

Please make note of error on blog

2009-07-24T06:58:00.000-07:00

If you are signed up to receive blogs via your email address as they are posted, please disregard blog message sent July 23, 2009. All of the information is from last year and should have been deleted instead of posted. Sorry about that.
Karen
Extension Office

La Quinta discounts for Texas 4-H supporters

2009-07-10T11:25:00.000-07:00

Texas 4-H supporters receive a 15% discount at La Quinta hotels, nationwide. The TX4H Alliance Program benefits the youth of 4-H!

TX4H Youth Discount is available nationwide for business and leisure travel.

When booking a reservation, refer to the "TX4H Youth Discount"

TX4H Youth Discount can be obtained by calling the hotel direct, using the La Quinta toll free reservation line at: 800-531-5900, or by booking online at: www.lq.com using the established TX4H discount promotional code

For more information, please call the reservation ph. number: 800-531-5900

10th Annual Wild Game Dinner: Saturday, October 3rd at 5:00 pm

2009-07-09T09:26:00.000-07:00

The 10th Annual Wild Game Dinner will be held on Saturday, October 3rd, at 5:00 pm at the Blanco County Show Barn.

For more details, check out our 4-H wesbite, under Publications OR
Look at the 4-H Newsletter for August.

4-H a Palooza has been rescheduled

2009-06-26T11:56:00.000-07:00

4-H a Palooza, which was scheduled for August 1st, 2009 has been rescheduled for September 1ST.

It is now the 4-H BIG BASH ENROLLMENT NIGHT FOR 4-H MEMBERSHIP.
SEE THE 4-H AUGUST NEWSLETTER ON THE 4-H WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Youth Exhibit Hall January 14-15, 2010

2009-06-23T10:01:00.001-07:00

Youth Exhibit Hall
January 14-15, 2010
Entries due: Monday, January 4 by Noon
$7 entry fee
Entry forms and Rules available soon at: blanco-co.tamu.edu
The Youth Exhibit Hall is a chance for 4-H, FFA and FCCLA members to compete in categories such as Foods, Home Canned Products, Sewing, Hobbies, Fine Art, and Educational Exhibits. New categories for 2010 include: mini scrapbooks, doll making, jewelry and computer generated art. Awards for winners include ribbons, rosettes, and embroidered tote bags. A Senior “Best in Show” winner and a Junior “Best in Show” winner will both be eligible for the Stock Show Sale on Saturday, January 16. The sweepstakes winners are chosen through a weighted point system based on the number of entries in each category. For example, if there are 5 entries in the cookie category 1st place will receive 5 points and 5th place will receive 1 point.
All participants are eligible to put their entries in the silent auction that runs Friday through Saturday.

CANCELLATION: 4-H TV Camp JULY 14-16

2009-06-22T09:43:00.000-07:00

The 4-H TV Camp scheduled for July 14-16th has been canceled.
Stay tuned for further information.

UPCOMING EVENTS

2009-04-29T15:00:00.000-07:00

*May 4, 2009-4-H Training @ Blanco County AgriLife Extension Office
*May 12, 2009- Judging Contests, Fredericksburg
*Horticulture Show - no date yet
*June 8-Blanco County 4-H Awards Banquet
*June 21-25 - Veterinary Science Workshop
*June 22-24-Leadership Lab-4-H Conference Center, Brownwood
*July 9, 2009 - Recordbook judging & Junior Leader Rally @ Helotes
*July 14-16, 2009 - 4-H/TV Day Camp
*July 20-4-H Club Officer Training, no location yet
*July 27-31: Spectra ‘09-Ages 14-18 (no Spectra in 2010, only odd years)
*August 1-Blanco County “4-H a Palooza”
*August 29-District 10 Mega Meeting, Dinner and Dance, Kerrville

Keeping up with what’s going on with your local 4-H
*You can subscribe to the Blanco County 4-H blog to receive automatic updates through your email. (See our blog for details)

2009 State Fair of Texas 4-H/FFA Lamb & Goat Validation Programs

2009-03-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

Time is fast approaching for each of you to make decisions on how many ear tags you will be needing for the 2009 State Fair of Texas 4-H Lamb & Goat Validation Programs.

The DEADLINE for ordering tags will be April 10, 2009, so you will need to contact the Extension Office before April 10th.

To avoid panic, please do not wait until the last day to order tags.

Thanks,
Todd Swift

Eligibility and School Absences

2009-03-04T11:36:00.001-08:00

The Blanco County 4-H program takes eligibility and school absences very seriously. Gretchen and Todd both strive to follow the rules written by Texas 4-H and Youth Development, Texas Education Agency and the University Interscholastic League. Gretchen and Todd are both considered Adjunct Faculty to both Blanco ISD and Johnson City ISD. The following rules and guidelines will be strictly followed:

“Consistent with University Interscholastic League (U.I.L.) rules, the Texas 4-H Program has adopted a three (3) school week waiting period upon change in status of school enrollment (i.e. from public to private or private to home or home to public or home to private, or public to public) before the 4-H member is eligible for extracurricular activity.”

Excerpt found on page 9 of the “Texas 4-H and Youth Development 2008-2009 Rules and Guidelines.” This document can be found at: http://blanco-co.tamu.edu Click on: publications, 4-H and Youth Development.

When considering absences from school, remember that Gretchen and Todd are only able to write excuse letters for certain events related specifically to the 4-H Program. Here are some examples:

Can by excused by 4-H:
* Any event where the County Extension Agent signs off on that entry AND is also there to supervise these youth as adjunct faculty.
* Specific examples include the Junior Livestock shows -- beef, sheep, swine, goats, rabbits, poultry, etc.
* Judging Contests where kids enter as a 4-H team

Cannot be excused by 4-H:
* Any event where the family enters the event on their own and the agent has not signed off on that entry.
* You should not be supervising these kids who do have entries in these events as adjunct faculty.
* Specific examples include the Open Horse Shows, Open Llama Shows, Open Cattle Shows, etc.
* Judging Contests where kids enter as an FFA team

If you have any questions about eligibility or absences, please contact us in advance of any event.

2008-09-04T09:55:00.000-07:00