Montco 4-H News

Silver Pails 4-H Goat Club Hot Dog Sale

2011-07-08T10:19:00.000-04:00

The Silver Pails 4-H Goat Club will be having a Hot Dog Sale on
Saturday, July 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
at Freed's Market, 2024 Swamp Pike, Gilbertsville.

In appreciation for Freed's Market customers, a hot dog and soda will cost just 25 cents! Please support our club by buying our baked goods, water ice, and goat milk soap too!

Kit Cat Club Reorganizing!

2011-01-14T10:43:00.000-05:00

Do you have a cat and want to learn more about taking care of it? Would you like to help at a cat shelter? Do you wish you could be around cats but can’t have a pet at home?

All youth ages 8-19 (as of 1/1/2011) who are interested in learning more about cats and their care are invited to join the 4-H Kit Kat Club. The first organizational meeting will be held on Thursday, January 20th at 7:30 PM at the PAWS Animal Rescue, 2048 Sumneytown Pike, in Kulpsville. ( 1/4 mile west of Lansdale turnpike interchange, at the corner of Old Forty Foot Road (also Sher Photography). Call 215-256-4215 for more information. Future meeting nights and times will be discussed and decided upon by the group after the first meeting.

Ownership of a cat is not mandatory and youth can get involved with the PAWS cat shelter near Harleysville as part of their 4-H activities if they do not own a cat or have access to a family member’s cat. Members will also have the chance to learn about careers in the animal sciences during their time in the club.

2011 Toastmasters Course

2010-12-15T15:29:00.001-05:00

Penn State Cooperative Extension of Montgomery County invites all teens to attend the 4-H Toastmasters Junior Leadership course being offered at the 4-H Center in Creamery. The course is open to all youth ages 14-19, who are interested in increasing their leadership skills and ability to speak in front of others. This course helps improve confidence in speaking at school, on job interviews and in group situations, and participants will get to meet new people and have fun in the process.

Classes will be held at the 4-H Center, located on Route 113 near Skippack, from 7:00-8:30 p.m. The course will start on Monday, February 28th, and continue for consecutive Monday nights up to and including April 11 with graduation ceremonies slated for that final night. Parents and friends are invited to the graduation ceremonies. Those enrolling must attend at least six of the eight classes (preferably all the classes but we realize there may be schedule conflicts) in order to receive their certificates.

Pre-registration is required. Enrollment is limited and the course fills up quickly. The registration fee is $25.00 to help support the program. To enroll, send the student's name, current age, birth date, home phone number, mailing address, and e-mail to the 4-H Office at:1015 Bridge Road, Suite H, Collegeville, PA, 19426. Or you may download the enrollment form here:
http://montgomery.extension.psu.edu/4-H/2011ToastMaster.pdf

Enrollees need to enclose a $25 check payable to "Montgomery County Extension", earmarked Toastmasters. Those accepted into the course will receive further details and directions as needed.
Instructors for the course are volunteers from the Toastmasters International Clubs. Youth do not need to be in 4-H prior to the course but by enrolling in the program they will be listed as a member for the year.

Christmas Felting Activity - 4-H Alpaca Club

2010-12-13T11:49:00.001-05:00

Join the new 4-H Alpaca Club for an afternoon felting soaps and Christmas tree ornaments.
What, you might ponder, is felting? That's a good question that we'll answer and teach you how do to at our meeting. Guaranteed to be a fun afternoon, and, you'll go home with a nice gift for someone special - or yourself.

Please bring a bar or two of your favorite soap, and we'll provide all of the felting materials.

Sunday, December 19th, 2:00 - 3:30
Little Lost Creek Alpaca Farm
1980 Quarry Road, Salford, PA

If you have any questions please contact Alex or Sandy Frazier, 484-431-5587 or 484-431-9305.

Zimmerman Scholarship application now available!

2010-12-13T11:00:00.002-05:00

The Montgomery County Farm, Home & 4-H Foundation has established a scholarship, in honor of Merrill K. and Louise Zimmerman, for their life-long devotion to the 4-H Program. This is the eleventh year that the scholarship will be awarded. In addition, the Montgomery County Farm Bureau has agreed to fund a second scholarship to a deserving student and 4-H alumni.

An application form is available on the Montgomery County 4-H website: http://bit.ly/hRGzKQ. Please notify us if you know of someone else who might qualify so that we can send them the application.
Note that the deadline for submission is March 15, 2011.

If you have any questions, please call me at 610-489-4315 or email: nbs1@psu.edu
Sincerely,
Nancy B. Stevens, County Extension Director

The Montgomery County Farm, Home & 4-H Foundation Scholarship

The Montgomery County Farm, Home & 4-H Foundation Scholarship is awarded annually in memory of Merrill K. and Louise Zimmerman for their life-long dedication and devotion to the Montgomery County 4-H Program.

To be eligible, students must:

Have participated in the Montgomery County 4-H Program for a minimum of three years.
Not have won the scholarship previously.
Be planning to major in (or be currently enrolled in) either agricultural sciences or family consumer sciences/human development fields.
Be a high school senior or presently attending a college or university in an undergraduate program.
Have achieved a superior academic record or show promise of outstanding academic success.
Submit a high school transcript (and college transcript if presently enrolled).
Submit two (2) letters of recommendation from a variety of sources - may include teachers, volunteer leaders, community leaders, etc.

Deadline for 2011 submission: March 15, 2011 For information, contact the 4-H Office at 610-489-4315. The scholarship amount awarded in 2010 was $1000.00.

Past recipients:
2001 Ellen Nave
2002 Michael Cressman
2003 Andrea Mountney
2004 Mary Kate Berardi
2005 Amy Shollenberger
2006 Brooke Fuhrman
2007 Samantha Carroll
2008 Samantha Carroll
2009 Robyn White
2010 Nicole McMahon

Teen Veterinary Science Short Course Offered

2010-12-09T12:41:00.000-05:00

Penn State Cooperative Extension of Montgomery County invites all teens to attend a 4-H Teen Veterinary Science course being offered in the Trappe area. The course is open to all youth ages 15-18, who are seriously interested in learning more about veterinary medicine as a career. According to County 4-H Coordinator Nancy Kadwill, "We plan to address how to prepare for a career, look at schooling needs, and help participants experience some of the daily duties of a veterinarian or vet technician. We are very pleased to have the staff of the Animal Medical Center in Trappe again volunteering to be our instructors”. Other topics will include determining animal health (office visits), animal handling and safety, acupuncture, lab radiology, and parasite control. Members may also have an opportunity to view a surgery procedure on one of the nights. You will get to enjoy the “sights, sounds and smells” of the profession. A certificate will be presented to all teens who complete the course.

The course will run five Thursday nights, from February 3rd, up to and including March 3rd. Classes will be held from 6:30-8:00 PM at the Animal Medical Center in Trappe, located on Route 113 (25 West Third Avenue) near Ridge Pike.

Pre-registration is required. Enrollment is limited to18 teens. The Animal Medical Center deals primarily with companion animals and exotics. For more details, contact the 4-H office at 610-489-4315 or visit http://montgomery.extension.psu.edu for a flier and application form.

The 4-H program is requesting a $25.00 donation per person to help cover the cost of materials and support the 4-H program. Enrollees need to send a check, payable to "Montgomery County Ext. Special Acct” to: Montgomery County 4-H, 1015 Bridge Road, Suite H, Collegeville, PA, 19426, prior to the course. Be sure to earmark the check “Trappe Vet. Sci. Course.” Youth do not need to be in 4-H prior to the course but by enrolling in the program they will be listed as a member for the year. Along with the check, also include your name, address, age and birthdate, e-mail, phone number and reason for wanting to be in the course.

Montgomery County PA Outstanding 4-H Member/Matthew Bailey Scholarship Awards

2010-06-04T13:15:00.001-04:00

Applications for the Montgomery County PA Outstanding 4-H Member/Matthew Bailey Scholarship Awards are due July 1. Were you at least 15 on 1/1/2010, and in 4-H for at least 2 years? Are you still in 4-H, in a leadership role? Have you been responsible for a 4-H Community Service project or taken a major role in one? Then you may be eligible to apply! Go to our 4-H website to download and complete the application.

There will be a workshop on June 8, 2010, to help members complete the application and prepare for the interview. The session will begin at 7 pm in the Dogwood Room at the 4-H Center. It should provide helpful information for applying for these awards, jobs, and college. Seating will be limited, so please RSVP to Patti Colby by phone (610)630-8289 or by email patticolby@msn.com.

4-H Center Clean Up Day!

2010-04-23T12:44:00.001-04:00

April 24th is 4-H Center Clean Up Day!

C'mon out and make our center look terrific! Bring your tools and equipment for some outdoor work. Don't forget the sunscreen and garden gloves! We will be starting around 9AM but come any time you can if you can't be here early. Call the office (610-489-4315) for more info or email njy1@psu.edu

4-H Babysitting Course Details

2010-04-05T11:39:00.001-04:00

April 4-H Babysitting Course at the Indian Valley Library is full.
Contact the library for the library for details on the summer course being held at the library.
100 E. Church Ave. Telford, Pa. 18969
215-723-9109

4-H Babysitting Course at Upper Pekiomen Valley Library this summer,
contact the library for details
Upper Perkiomen Valley Library
350 Main St. Red Hill, Pa. 18076
215-679-2020

4-H Babysitting Course at the 4-H Center
1015 Bridge Rd Collegeville, Pa. 19426
Monday thru Friday, June 28- July 2, 1:30 pm- 3:00pm.
Call 610-489-4315 for a registration brochure.

4-H Babysitting Course Lower Providence Library
50 Parklane Drive Eagleville,Pa. 19403
Call 610-666-6640 for a registration brochure
Mon thru Friday June 28-July 2, 10:30 am- 12:00 noon

Design a Cover for Fashion Revue

2010-03-25T12:18:00.000-04:00

Do you like to draw?

If so, enter the contest to design the program cover for 4-H Regional Fashion Revue. You can be a member of any 4-H club to be eligible to submit a drawing. The theme this year is “Picture Perfect”. The drawing should original, be in black and white and no larger than 8.5” by 11”. Drawings are due to the Extension office by May 1. They can be faxed to 610-489-9277, scanned and emailed to nbs1@psu.edu or mailed to the 4-H office at 1015 Bridge Road, Collegeville, PA 19426. Put to the attention of Nancy Stevens. A $25 gift certificate will be given to the member whose design is chosen.

Horses 101- Back to the Basics

2010-03-10T10:47:00.002-05:00

Saturday, April 17, 2010
Montgomery Co 4H Ctr., 1015 Bridge Road (Rt. 113) Creamery, PA

Horses 101- Back to the Basics is an educational program open to all horse enthusiasts (show, trail riders, new horse owners) and experience levels (youth and adults). Get ready for the spring riding/showing season and meet other horse owners. Visit the Tack Swap and plan on attending this educational offering. Program topics include:

Horse Trailering - Keeping You and Your Horse Safe
Leg Wrapping for Support, Exercise & Shipping
Making a Good First Impression in the Show Ring
Natural Hoof Trimming
Saddle Fitting
Horse Show Etiquette
Body Clipping & Braiding

Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Cost for Horse Course 101 = $5/individual, $10/family
Call 610-489-4315

Join the Tail Gaiters 4H Club at the 4H Center for a spring clean-out-the-barn community Tack Swap. Find a bargain. Rent a table for just $15 each.
All proceeds from the swap will benefit the Tail Gaiters 4H Club.
Contact 215-778-6685 for more swap information and table reservations.

Snow Cancellation!

2010-02-09T11:22:00.002-05:00

The Montgomery County 4-H Livestock Club meeting scheduled for tonight - Tuesday, February 9th, is canceled due to the SNOW!!!

Any questions please call the 4-H office or your club leader!

New 4-H Quilt Club

2009-12-15T13:48:00.001-05:00

Hot News!
There will be a 4-H Quilt Club starting up on January 23 and meeting at the 4-H Center for 6 Saturday mornings from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. It is open to youth ages 9 to 14. There is a cost of $25 which covers all quilting materials, batting, thread ,etc. Each participant will make a 36 inch quilt. Call the office to request a brochure or go to http://montgomery.extension.psu.edu/4-H/2010QuiltClub.pdf for more information. Registration is limited.

4-H Clubs Exhibit at Pet Expo

2009-11-13T11:21:00.002-05:00

Montgomery County 4-H participated in the Greater Philadelphia Pet Expo, Friday November 6 through Sunday November 8, which was held at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, PA. Throughout the weekend, 4-H members passed out informational brochures and were available to answer questions. A computerized slide show ran continuously, highlighting various club programs, horse shows and the 4-H fair. Banners, project posters, and photographs were on display. The club scrapbooks were available to look through and served as a visual explanation of each club’s activities.

The animals exhibited by 4-H members were a big hit. The public was able to meet and pet mini horses, goats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs and Seeing Eye puppies.

The Expo provided an opportunity for Club members to reach out to the general public to show how 4-H has evolved from the traditional clubs to a large variety of non-traditional clubs. Livestock, dairy, horse, dog, cat, poultry, rabbits, sewing, beekeeping, gardening, fishing, crafters and Seeing Eye puppy are among those offered for children between the ages of 8 and 19 to join. Special projects such as 4-H State Achievement Days, the Exchange Program, Leadership Conference and Capitol Days were also highlighted.

Halloween Horse Show

2009-10-09T11:20:00.002-04:00

Central Montgomery Co. 4-H Horse & Pony Club presents their 2009 Fall Fun Show. Held October 31, 9AM at the Montgomery Co. 4-H Center.
Registration is between 8:00 and 9 AM
For information: 610-287-7619
Come see our Costume Class! Food will also be available.

2009 4-H Fair Pictures Now on the Web!

2009-10-08T15:49:00.002-04:00

Pictures from the 2009 4-H Fair are finally uploaded!

http://montgomery.extension.psu.edu/4-H/4-HFair2009/index.htm

If you see one you would like to have, email me and I will send it to you!

Norma Young, 4-H secretary
njy1@psu.edu

Study Says 4-H is Great!!!!

2009-10-08T15:32:00.002-04:00

Study: 4-H Sparks Science Achievement in Children
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Published: October 7, 2009

BOSTON (AP) -- American universities have an ally in their efforts to educate more students in science, technology and engineering and keep the nation competitive in the global economy, a Tufts University study released Wednesday shows.

Children involved in 4-H perform better in those subjects and are more likely to pursue science careers, according to the study, released Wednesday in conjunction with 4-H National Youth Science Day.

''When parents ask, 'What can I do to get my kid a leg up?,' getting them involved in 4-H turns out to be a very effective strategy,'' said Richard Lerner, director of the Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development at Tufts and lead researcher for the multiyear study. Read more...

4-H Fair, August 6th - 8th

2009-08-03T10:52:00.002-04:00

It's 4-H Fair Time!!!

The 4-H Fair takes place on August 6th , 7th & 8th at the 4-H Center located just outside Skippack on Rt. 113 in Creamery, PA. The Fair opens on Thursday, August 6th from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM, Friday, August 7th 9:30 AM to 9:30 PM and Saturday, August 8th from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

There is LOTS to see and do! The Mobile Ag Science Lab will again be featured all 3 days during the Fair, and the Giant Fabric Sale will be ongoing throughout the fair. We have horse and tractor wagon rides, a wonderful Mexican Dance Troupe, the 4-H Animal Costume Show, a magic show, The Daisy Jug Band, and of course all of the 4-H clubs will be featuring their projects and the 4-H animals will be here with their people. Please join us!

Please go to this website for more information and flyers:
http://montgomery.extension.psu.edu/4-H/4HFair2009.html

Friendly Paw Dog Club Members Participate in Dog Handling Course

2009-07-31T12:13:00.002-04:00

Friendly Paw Dog Club members recently completed a six-week training course on Conformation Dog Handling. Members met for an hour once a week to learn handling techniques and gating patterns. It was obvious by the marked improvement of both the children and their dogs' that they were diligent in practicing throughout the week at home. The knowledge they gained during the training sessions will enable them to compete in dog shows as well as Junior Showmanship competitions.

The culmination of the training sessions ended with a club field trip to the Huntington Valley Kennel Club show held at the Wrightstown Grange in Bucks County. Members were able to see first hand the professionals and owner-handlers at work in the ring with their dogs. This experience, of being able to see the application of the dog handling techniques they had been taught, helped to solidify their basic understanding Conformation Dog Handling. Several of the members were surprised to realize, "My dog and I are not that bad after all" and that all the compliments that club members had been receiving from their instructor at 'how good they were doing' were for real.

The highlight of the day was the Junior Showmanship Competition for children ages 9 through 18. In this competition the youth's ability to expertly present their dog is judged, not the quality of the dog. The Dog Grooming & Showmanship Competition that Friendly Paw Dog Club members participate in at the 4-H Fair is modeled after this event. 4-H permits contestants to enter any dog, pure or mixed breed, as long as they can safely control it in the ring.
Click here for photos of this event!

4-H Fair Update

2009-06-29T12:07:00.005-04:00

1. This year members will be judged in their outfits prior to the fair, on Thursday, July 30 from 6:00-8:00 PM at the 4-H Center. You may come at any time, but not past 7:30 p.m. because we would like to be finished no later than 8 p.m.

If members will be on vacation, you may bring your member's outfit to the 4-H Center, on or before July 30, so that judges may judge construction.

2. 4-H members' projects will be on display at the 4-H Fair from 5:00 PM August 6th until 4:00 PM on August 8th. We will have a mini Fashion Revue (no competition) on Saturday, August 8 at 3:30, using the same commentaries from the County 4-H Fashion Revue on June 20. You will have an opportunity to sign up to participate when you come on judging night, July 30. All outfits will be kept here from July 30 until the Fair is adjourned. Members will need to arrive at 3:00 PM on August 8 to participate in the Fashion Revue. Be sure to bring along a written commentary if you did not participate at the Fashion Revue in June.

3. We need help setting up the clothing displays for the 4-H Fair on Tuesday, August 4 at 4 p.m. Adults and youth are needed to make the room look as beautiful as it has in the past. If you can help, please email or call Patti Colby at patticolby@msn.com or 610-630-8289.

In addition, we need members, parents and leaders on Saturday August 8 at 4:00 PM after the fair is over to help take down exhibit tables and clean the facility.

5. Again this year, there will be a GIANT Fabric Sale, to benefit your 4-H Center and the

4-H Clothing & Textiles Program. The hours will be August 6 from 6-10 p.m., August 7 from 9:30 AM-9 PM, and August 8 from 9:30 AM-3 PM. The sale will take place in the gym. Volunteers (parents, leaders and teens) are needed to help sell fabric and to sort/price the fabric during July and the week prior to the fabric sale. For every two hours that you work at the Fabric Sale, you will receive a $5 credit toward any purchases at the Fabric Sale. Email Patti Colby (patticolby@msn.com , preferred, or call 610-630-8289) if you can assist. If you want to donate fabric for the sale, we will accept donations at the Extension Office, beginning June 27 through July 25 (go to the website http://montgomery.extension.psu.edu/4-H/FabricDonations.html for specific dates and times). It is helpful if you can label the content and yardage amount.

6. During fair judging each level is judged separately. As a reminder, we will award Clovers for a truly outstanding job, and Grand and Reserve Champion for first and second place of all clothing entries, plus we will continue to award a "Best in Class" at each level. We'd like everyone to feel good about the ribbon he or she receives, whether it's red, blue, or white, and to understand that it's OK to not get a blue ribbon every time. Remember, everyone gets a ribbon! Members who don't fit into a specific 4-H clothing category can be judged in the "OPEN YOUTH" categories.

Sara Danehower Scholarship

Finally, it’s not too late to apply for the Sara Danehower Scholarship to help finance your 2010 4-H clothing and textiles project. The application will be forwarded in another email within the next week. Your leader also has a copy of the application. The deadline to apply is 7/15/2009.

See you at the Fair!

Patti Colby

4-H Volunteer

4-H State Achievement Days at Penn State

2009-06-02T14:40:00.002-04:00

State Days July 28-30

Application Deadline- Must be received by June 18th

Imagine having fun meeting 4-H teens from across the state while competing in contests related to your project area. Think you are good at shooting an air rifle, giving a presentation, or judging horses? Or that you have lots of knowledge about rabbits, dogs or archery? Want to experience staying in college dorms and seeing the Penn State campus? Can you sing or like to design computer graphics for marketing? If this sounds like fun, come and be part of this exciting three-day event held at Penn State each summer.

This program is open to qualified 4-H members ages 13 (as of 1/1/09) and older. The first day is devoted to registration, a service project, the opening ceremony with a motivational/entertaining assembly, and some social time. Some contests may have a special session that afternoon as well. The second day is devoted to your contest and educational program in the morning and afternoon. Then there is some free time to relax before dinner. The evening often offers choices like the Fashion Review, movie, and a dance. On Thursday the morning is devoted to the awards assembly and then the trip home!

While most of the members have already been practicing for their teams, there are several events (like The Apprentice, State Chorus, and Ag Career Exploration) that allow teens to attend that might not be in a specific program or project area. There is also a talent showcase that allows those members who are already going to State Days in another contest to perform if selected. With the exception of these few events, you should be taking a project in that area and/or work with a designated coach. For example, if you plan to compete in Physical Fitness, you MUST attend the practices, study nutrition, and be approved by the coach who is Karen Moore. There is a new puppetry program too!

Barb Schwarzer (from Toastmasters) and I will help those interested in doing public speaking or demonstrations. Anyone planning to do the tractor driving must get an approved adult to work with them and sign off that they have seen you actually drive through a course similar to the one you will be required to do. You also need to study the parts of the tractor.

Winners in many of our state contests can go on to national competition. In recent years, our Avian Bowl went on to competition in Kentucky, our public speaker went to the Eastern National 4-H horse Roundup in KY, and four members of our Air Rifle Team competed at the National 4-H Shoot in South Dakota.

If you want information on the photography, poster art and small animal essay contests which are judged during State Days but are not a team event, go to the State Days website at: http://pa4h.cas.psu.edu/77.htm and print off the requirements and information you want. Let me know in advance if you plan to enter as these must be sent to Penn state ahead of time.

If you want to go, you MUST have your application and check to me by June 18th. Cost is $135 per person payable to "Mont. Co. 4-H Dev. Fund." Your portion pays for the registration for the contest, lodging (in the dorms), meals, and other related event activities at Penn State. Your only additional cost should be meals en route. We pay for the bus and chaperone costs which run about $3,200 in addition to what you pay. Those who sign up will receive details regarding attire, medical forms, transportation, etc. We travel by bus and leave from the 4-H Center Tuesday morning (about 8:15 AM) and return there Thursday afternoon (about 4:00 PM). If you are not staying in the dorms and only driving up for the contest and going home, talk to me as there is a reduced fee for that option. The single room request on the application is for chaperones only.

If you want to go to the Tuesday afternoon session regarding "What Does Penn State Have to Offer" be sure to check that on your form. Do the same with the Talent Show (also requires a video) and fill in the required papers (see the website). Because we have encountered some problems in the past, we will not accept State Days applications without the check.

Again, please go to http://pa4h.cas.psu.edu/77.htm to look up and print off your event rules and regulations so you know what to expect of your contest. Completed applications and checks MUST be received in the office by June 18th so don't wait till the last minute to apply. Late registration costs are $175. This includes any applications coming to us after the June 18th date and prior to July 1st. We will only accept late registrations if there is room on the bus.

There is a service project that everyone will participate in on Tuesday afternoon once we get on campus. You will get details once you register for the event.
You may download the application on the Montgomery 4-H website:
http://montgomery.extension.psu.edu/4-H/2009SAD.pdf

Ambler 4-H Club Service Project at Elmwood Park Zoo

2009-06-02T14:17:00.003-04:00

The Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown contacted the Montgomery County Ambler 4-H club and asked for a Cotton-Top Tamarin sign board to be constructed and painted. The Ambler 4-H club purchased the sign board wood and paints and the 4-H club leader designed the Tamarin sign board. Three Ambler 4-H leaders and senior high school member David Robbins constructed and painted the Cotton Top Tamarin sign board. Ambler 4-H club has also performed community service by constructing the Butterfly sign board (2000) and the Tree Frog sign board(2008) for the Elmwood Park Zoo at no charge to the zoo. Great Job!

4-H Kit Kat Club Fundraiser

2009-06-02T14:10:00.002-04:00

The 4-H Kit Kat Club is proud to hold a fundraiser on Sunday, June 14th from 11AM-3PM to raise funds and donations for the local SPCA and the Cat Angel Network. We will be at the Trappe Feed & Pet Supply 325 W Main Street, Trappe (behind Dairy Queen) We are gratefully accepting:

Food (dry and canned)
Cat Litter (especially pine)
Old towels and blankets
Bleach
Newspapers
Small and medium plastic litter boxes
Kitten milk replacement
Paper towels
Small toy mice
Monetary donations are always appreciated

Please come and visit us!

An Invitation to NON Equestrian 4-H Members!

2009-04-21T10:02:00.004-04:00

Attention Non-Equestrians!!

Have you ever wondered what goes on at a horse show?
Why do they dress like that?
What's the deal with riding around in that ring?
What is a lead change and where are the posts for posting?
How does a horse bend a pole with no hands?
Does a horse really fit through a keyhole?

Timber Talk Trotters would like to invite you to stop at the 4-H Center on May 30th and find out!There will be breakfast goodies for early birds and a cookout for lunch. Grab a bite to eat - stay for an hour or make it a day! We would love to see you and answer any horse show questions you might have!

CLICK HERE for a photo of a Timber Talk Trotters Event!

THE OFFICIAL INFO:
Timber Talk Trotters 4-H Horse Club is holding their annual open English,
Western and Driving show on Saturday, May 30th at the Montgomery
County 4-H Center @ 1015 Bridge Road (Rt 113), Creamery, PA. The
show starts at 8:00 am. Please contact Leslie @ 215.234.9376 or
lesliekblair4@comcast.net for a copy of the prize list.

Matthew Bailey Scholarship / Outstanding 4-H Member Award

2009-04-16T10:54:00.002-04:00

Dear Matthew Bailey Scholarship and Outstanding 4-H Member Applicants:

Thank you for your interest in either of the above referenced awards. Both are the highest honors in the local 4-H Program and are highly coveted.

The application for the Matthew Bailey Scholarship and Outstanding 4-H Member Awards is now on the 4-H website at:
http://montgomery.extension.psu.edu/4-H/2009MB-OMApplication.pdf

I want to call the following to your attention.

First, all applications and leader recommendations are due on July 1. There are no exceptions granted for any reason when applications or recommendations are received late (not even if your mom, dog, cat, bird, goat, sheep, any other being or alien ate it). You are encouraged to remind leaders so that your recommendations are received on time, and as per the description outlined on page 2. (Sometimes busy leaders forget, so a gentle reminder is often welcomed.)

Second, read all guidelines and instructions carefully, and follow them. Submitting an incomplete application will put you at a severe disadvantage.

Applications may be submitted online to patticolby@msn.com, with a copy to Nancy Kadwill at nmk1@psu.edu. In the reference line, be sure to include the words "4-H Scholarship/Outstanding Member Application". For the signature areas, just type in your name and the date on the appropriate lines, and after your name, type the words "I approve". (The same instructions apply for leaders wishing to submit recommendations online.) For the extension office signature, you may leave that blank, and I will verify with Nancy that she has approved the application.

The application consists of 10 pages (the last 4 are Leader Recommendation forms).

Finally, interviews will be conducted on July 8 and July 22. On both evenings, the times will be 6:30 p.m., 7:15 p.m., 8 p.m., and 8:45 p.m. When you submit your application, please indicate your 1st, 2nd, and 3rd choices for interview dates and times. Watch your email after 7/1/2009, for confirmation of your interview. Emails will include the words "4-H", "Interview", and "Confirmation", and they will generate from "Gary or Patti Colby".

Please read and follow all instructions carefully. If you have questions, please send an email to patticolby@msn.com.

Good luck!
Patti Colby,
Chairperson of the Selection Committee

Presentation Night Contest Canceled

2009-04-06T12:50:00.000-04:00

The Presentation Night Contest has been canceled due to low enrollment. We may try to have something of a similar nature at another time of the year, possibly Friday night at the Fair

Earth Day - Clean Up Day at the 4-H Center

2009-04-03T11:29:00.003-04:00

In recognition of Earth Day, the 4-H Livestock Club is sponsoring "Clean Up Day at the 4-H Center" on April 25 from 1 to 5 pm. All 4-H Clubs are invited and encouraged to participate!

Why is this important? We have a terrific facility that is available for our use, and we do not have to pay rent. Let's all help maintain the property so that we can continue to use it!

Here are some of the things we need to do:

Weed, mulch, and edge the flower beds.
Clean the attic and basement.
Replace the walkway to the shooting sports area (at least remove the old one).
Remove/replace rotting poles and ties around the facility.
Clean lights in the barns.
Rake sand and permaflex back into the show rings.
Barn cleaning (not to be confused with barn raising).
Repair a door.

We need parents and kids to participate. If you have these "tools", you may want to bring them (please label your stuff):

Gloves.
Rakes.
Shovels.

To volunteer for Clean Up Day assignments, please email Patti Colby at patticolby@msn.com or Jerry McMahon at deepcreek28@verizon.net

Water and snacks will be provided.

Let's work together and celebrate Earth Day by cleaning up the 4-H Center.

Friendly Paw Dog Club Learns to Scrapbook!

2009-03-31T15:22:00.003-04:00

Friendly Paw Dog Club members welcomed guest speaker, Melissa Newton, an art teacher and Bucks County 4-H leader to their meeting on March 25, 2009. Melissa presented examples of a well-done page and one that was not very good. Members then critiqued the pages, learning what works and what does not. Afterward, the children made their own scrapbook pages themed "My Dog". These four-page photo books describing their dog and facts about the breed will be entered at the 4-H Fair in August. This scrapbook workshop was a great way for the club to start its own scrapbook …something the Friendly Paw Dog Club has never had. It will be a way for the members to document the various club activities, along with the canine visitors and guest speakers we have at meetings. Now when people ask, "What does your club do?", a picture can say a thousand words.

Friendly Paws Dog Club Invites All 4-Hers!!

2009-03-31T15:18:00.001-04:00

Guest Speaker from the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Oak room, 7:00 to 8:00 PM

Friendly Paw Dog Club invites all 4-H members to join them for this informative night.

Jessie Smith, the Special Deputy Secretary for Dog Law Enforcement will be coming out from Harrisburg to talk about the purpose of her department, the recent changes to the dog laws in Pennsylvania, and the responsibilities of the State Dog Wardens. Prior to being appointed to her current post by Governor Edward G. Rendell, she worked as a deputy attorney general and served as Board President of the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area Inc. The evening should prove to be enlightening and educational for anyone who has a dog or has ever thought about owning one.

2009 4-H Hotline Now Online

2009-03-09T14:15:00.001-04:00

http://montgomery.extension.psu.edu/4-H/2009SpringHotline.pdf

The 2009 4-H Spring Hotline is now available online.
You should also be receiving it in the mail in a couple of days!

4-H Fair T-shirt Contest

2009-03-09T14:09:00.002-04:00

4-H Fair T-shirt Contest
Sponsored by Teen Council
Open to 4-H members of all ages

All 4-H members are invited to participate in the 2nd annual Teen Council T-shirt contest. The T-shirts will be on sale during the fair!
Designs for T-shirts must be clearly drawn in black pen/marker and must represent the majority of the 4-H clubs. Designs must not be colored in.
Designs will be judged on originality, creativity, and overall representation of 4-H.
Each design must be accompanied by an entry form. Multiple designs may be submitted by the same individual.
The creator of the winning design will receive a $100 savings bond, a free T-shirt, and recognition at the fair. Two runner-ups will also receive a free T-shirt.
For more information, please contact Jo Ambrose at 215-616-2441.
You may download an entry form here:
http://montgomery.extension.psu.edu/4-H/2009TShirtContest.pdf

4H Babysitting Course

2009-03-09T13:21:00.000-04:00

4H Babysitting Course
Belmont Hills Library
120 Mary Watersford Rd.
Bala Cynwyd, Pa. 19004
Thursday evenings, 7:00 pm-8:30pm
August 6th through September 3rd

2009 Public Speaking and Presentation Contest

2009-02-25T14:03:00.004-05:00

2009 Public Speaking and Presentation Contest
Wednesday, April 15th - Starts at 6:30 PM
Mont. Co. 4-H Center, 1015 Bridge Road (Rt. 113), Creamery, PA 19426

Juniors Age 8 to 13 (as of 1/1/2009)
Seniors Age 14 to 18 (as of 1/1/2009)

Highlights:

Select your own topic to present
Public Speaking: Speech should be 3—5 minutes for Juniors, and 4—7 minutes for Seniors
Presentations, Demonstrations and Illustrated talks should be 10—15 minutes
Registration Deadline is April 1st (No Fooling!)

Seniors—Refer to State Day’s requirements for ideas if you are interested in using your speech or presentation at State Days this year. Contact the Extension office if you have questions. No live animals can be used during presentations at State Days.
Tables, easel, screen, LCD projector and laptop can be provided if
requested in advance.
Remember you need to have:

A good beginning
A body of presentation
A definite closing

Prizes and ribbons will be awarded for all!
A flyer may be downloaded at:
http://montgomery.extension.psu.edu/4-H/2009SpeechFlyer.pdf

Veterinary Science Course

2009-02-25T13:52:00.002-05:00

Teen Veterinary Science Short Course
Five Thursday Evenings: April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
6:30—8:00 PM at the Animal Medical Center in Trappe

Penn State Cooperative Extension of Montgomery County invites all interested teens to attend the 2009 4-H Teen Veterinary Science course being offered in the Trappe area. The course is open to all youth ages 15-18, who are seriously interested in learning more about veterinary medicine as a career.

The program is geared to teens who are interested in veterinary medicine as a potential career. This program will address how to prepare for a career, look at schooling needs, and help participants experience some of the daily duties of a veterinarian or vet technician. Other topics will include determining animal health (office visits), animal handling and safety, acupuncture, lab radiology, and parasite control. Members may even have an opportunity to view a surgery procedure on one of the nights if possible. We are very pleased to have the staff of the Animal Medical Center in Trappe volunteering to be our instructors.

The course will run five Thursday nights, from April 2nd, up to and including April 30th. Classes will be held from 6:30-8:00 PM at the Animal Medical Center in Trappe which specializes in companion animals and exotics. It is located on Route 113 (25 West Third Avenue) near Ridge Pike.
Pre-registration is required. The fee is $20.00 per person , checks payable to Montgomery Co. Coop. Ext. Send to:
Montgomery Co. Cooperative Extension, ATT: Vet Science Course
1015 Bridge Road, Suite H, Collegeville, PA, 19426
Please note Vet Science Course on your check. Youth do not need to be in 4-H prior to the course but by enrolling in the program they will be listed as a member for the year. Along with the check, also include the application form. We are also looking for one parent who would like to stay and serve as an adult volunteer for the course. Enrollment is limited (18 teens). For more information:
call the 4-H office at 610-489-4315.
An application can be found at:
http://montgomery.extension.psu.edu/4-H/2009VetSci.pdf

Buds 'n' Blooms and Catch & Release Clubs to Begin Meeting

2009-02-17T10:37:00.003-05:00

Buds 'n' Blooms: The Buds 'n' Blooms 4-H Plant Science Club will begin its new year on February 26th. This year the club will be continuing with the "Treetops" project. The first meeting will find members starting a variety of seeds, which will then be donated to the Master Gardener Plant Sale.

Buds 'n' Blooms members take a rest during their community service project.

Catch & Release Crew: The Catch & Release Crew will begin its second season on Wednesday March 25th. The club is new to the 4H line of clubs and as you can tell by its name, it is all about fishing. The club meets March thru Sept. with March, April and September meetings held at the 4H Center. The other meetings in between are fishing activities at local fishing holes. This club is for youth 10-15 yrs of age.

Meeting Grease!

2009-02-17T10:32:00.002-05:00

Meeting Grease!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Montgomery County 4-H Center
6:30-7:00 PM Registration and Pizza
7:00-8:30 PM Program

What IS “Meeting Grease?” It’s a fun, informative, and hands-on workshop to help you learn the basics of parliamentary procedure and how to run a meeting efficiently and effectively. This is for you if you are an officer, want to be an officer, are responsible for your club officers, or simply want to be a better club member.

Featuring the talents and humor of Dr. Jim Diamond, this workshop is open to all club officers, potential officers, leaders, and advisors who want to “Make the Best Better” in their 4-H or school clubs. Enrollment is limited. Registrations will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis but please call by April 1st so we can plan accordingly for space, books, and refreshments. You can register as an individual or your club leader can register and enroll all the officers coming from that club. There is no cost this year but we ask each participant to bring a canned good or non-perishable food item for the local food pantry. The 4-H Center is located on Route 113, one mile south of Route 73 near Skippack. This program is brought back by popular demand and “yes” you can attend it again.

Dr. Diamond has presented this seminar throughout the state and at numerous national association meetings. He is the former Dean of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at Delaware Valley College in Doylestown, PA. He has had extensive international assignments during his tenure at Penn State and was a Vo-Ag teacher in Bucks County.

We welcome everyone but alert you that enrollment is limited so register ASAP to assure a spot (we are in the Beech Room and classroom size is limited). Leaders please call and encourage your officers to attend. Your call will make the difference!
A flyer may be downloaded at:
http://montgomery.extension.psu.edu/4-H/2009MeetingGrease.pdf
Sincerely,
Nancy M. Kadwill
Extension Educator

4-H Toastmaster Course

2009-02-13T13:14:00.011-05:00

4-H TOASTMASTERS JUNIOR LEADERSHIP
& PUBLIC SPEAKING COURSE
Monday Nights March 23rd-May 4th, 2009

Does the thought of speaking in front of others terrify or excite you?
Would you like to make those “butterflies” fly in formation?
Would you like to be better at making oral reports at school?
Do you have a job or college interview coming up soon?
Then come and join us to help “make the best better” for yourself!

We are pleased to announce that the 2009 4-H Toastmasters Junior Leadership Course will be starting Monday, March 23rd and continuing for seven consecutive Monday nights up to and including May 4th (seven nights this year instead of eight sessions). Classes will be held from 7:00-8:30 PM each night at the Montgomery County 4-H Center located on Route 113, one mile south of Route 73 near Skippack.

The course is open to all youth ages 14-19 (as of the class) so feel free to invite a friend or two. You don't need to have been in 4-H prior to the course but, by enrolling in the program you will be listed as a member for the year. We realize that there will be some scheduling conflicts along the way but you need to attend at least five of the seven class nights to receive your graduation certificate.

For graduation ceremonies, we will probably have a "dessert" night at a local restaurant on the final evening of the course. In the meantime, tell your parents/family to keep May 4th open since they are invited and should be there if possible to see you graduate. There will be a small cost for that evening to cover food and related expenses. Instructors for the course will be from the adult Toastmaster’s International Club.

I hope to see you there. I guarantee you will really learn a lot by participating. You will increase your confidence in speaking in front of people, and know more about running meetings and elections which are great skills for club officers and potential officers. You will also meet new friends and have fun.

There is a charge of $18.00 per person for the course which will go toward the cost of materials and support of 4-H. You need to send a check in advance, payable to "Montgomery County Extension” and earmarked “Toastmasters” to:
Montgomery County 4-H - Toastmasters
1015 Bridge Road, Suite H
Collegeville, PA 19426

Enrollment is limited and fills up quickly so you MUST send your information and check if you are interested in reserving a place. Complete the information listed below. Also indicate if you are first, second or third year in the course. If your plans change once you make the reservation be sure to let us know so we can notify others on the waiting list. We will not hold your place in the course until we receive your check. This may seem early but teens’ schedules fill up quickly and we wanted you to have these dates.
An application may be downloaded at:
http://montgomery.extension.psu.edu/4-H/2009Toastmaster.pdf

Sincerely,
Nancy M. Kadwill
Extension Educator

Horse Club Info

2009-02-04T14:55:00.006-05:00

Tack Swap!
Saturday, March 14, 2009 9:00-1:00 Montgomery Co 4H Ctr. 1015 Bridge Road (Rt. 113) Creamery, PA Turn your old tack into BIG BUCK$$.

Find a new home for the great stuff you have collected over the years.
Join the Tail Gaiters 4H Club at the 4H Center for a spring clean-out-the-barn community Tack Swap. Rent a table for just $15 each. The tack swap is a fundraiser for Tail Gaiters. We will be having a club table if you have anything you would like to donate to the club to sell, just let us know, we can pick it up, clean it up. All proceeds will benefit the Tail Gaiters 4H Club. Refreshments will be available, sponsored by Tail Gaiters.
Contact Sally at 215-778-6685 for more information and table reservations. Or send the reservation form to: Sally Hibbert, 4H 1015 Bridge Road, Suite H Collegeville, PA 19426

2008-2009 Horse Bowl/Hippology Practice
Would you like to increase your knowledge about horses? Would you like to get to know kids from other horse clubs? Hippology and Horse Bowl may be for you!!
Open to 4-H horse members ages 8-18. Practices are in the Hickory room at the 4-H Center from 7-8:30pm on the following days: Mon Nov 10 Wed Dec 10 Thurs Jan 22 Tues Feb 17 Wed Mar 4 Come out and have fun learning about horses. You do not have to attend every practice.

Chris Hanebury receives the Betty Ann Davis Award for 4-H Horse Club Mother of the Year 2008 from Central Horse & Pony's George Shenkle at the 2008 Equine Award Banquet held January 24, 2009.

Spring 2009 Babysitting Courses

2009-02-04T14:39:00.007-05:00

Babysitting Course at the Wissahickon Library Ambler Branch
209 Race St. Ambler, Pa. 19002
Thursday evenings April 30th – May 28th 6:30pm – 8:00pm
Cost $20 per student, registration a must
Registration brochures available at the library or by calling 610.489.4315

Babysitting Course at the Ludington Library
5 South Bryn Mawr Ave Bryn Mawr, Pa. 19010
Tuesday evenings April 28th – May 26th 7:00pm- 8:30pm
Cost $20 per student, registration a must
Registration brochures available at the library or by calling 610.489.4315

Winter Market Day Campaign Fund Raiser

2009-02-04T12:58:00.005-05:00

Our fall Market Day Fundraiser was a success with funds being raised for 4H as a whole and individual clubs. We are ready to give it another trying in hopes that more clubs will be able to participate with a longer turnaround time in this campaign. Brochures are being placed in meeting rooms and if you need additional brochures or order forms, please call Linda Hoade at the 4H office; 610-489-4315.
The time frame is as follow;

Orders due to Linda in the 4H Center by Monday March 2, 2009.
Pick up at 4H Center is Saturday March 28, 2009.
Payment must be included with your order, checks made payable to; 4H Development Fund

Be sure to include club and member’s name on the order form so proper credit can be given.
4H Development Fund will give 50% of profit raised back to clubs based on individual club sales.
Please note; you must pick up your items on the specified date and times as 4H has no place to store items that are not picked up. Items that are not picked up will be donated to “Manna on Main St.” in Lansdale.
Questions? Contact Linda Hoade@ 610-489-4315 or lma13@psu.edu

February News

2009-02-03T15:43:00.002-05:00

Clothing and Textile News – County Fashion Revue will take place on Saturday, June 20, 2009 at Dock Village in Lansdale. Regional Fashion Revue will be Tuesday, June 30, 2009 at the Branch Creek Community Church in Harleysville. More details to follow.

Like to Draw?? - We are looking for artwork for the cover of the printed programs for county and regional fashion revue. The theme for 2009 is “4-H Fashion Guide to Style.” All drawings should be done in black ink (no color) on 8.5”x11” paper. Submit as many drawings as you like to Nancy Stevens no later than May 1, 2009. There will be a prize of $25 for the drawing selected.

Financial Records Due - Leaders – don’t forget, your club treasurer’s books, checkbook and ledger need to be audited annually. Please make arrangement to get them to the 4-H office for this review.

Quilt Show - The Homemaker’s Country Quilters will hold their “Showcase of Quilts XII” on Friday, March 20 and Saturday, March 21, 2009 at the 4-H Center. Friday’s hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday’s hours are 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. There is a $5 donation at the door. Many of the proceeds from the show benefit the 4-H Center, so please encourage friends, relatives, and neighbors to come. It is a great show.

Office Space Available - There is presently office space available in the 4-H Center. If you know of an individual, small business, or organization that is looking for an office, please let them know we have space available. They should contact Roberta at 610-489-4315 for more information.

Welcome to the Montco 4-H Blog!

2009-02-03T14:45:00.006-05:00

Welcome to the Montgomery County 4-H Blog! We have created this blog to get out information in a more timely manner. We hope that our members will subscribe to this blog to receive updates on upcoming events, 4-H related news, club activities and anything else you may be interested in seeing here.
If your club has an activity, event or just a story to share, please email Norma Young - njy1@psu.edu with anything you would like posted. This includes pictures you may want to share.
Please do not hesitate to contact us with suggestions. This is your blog to use to promote your 4-H club!

Timber Talk Trotters display their awesome
2008 Easter Baskets made for several
homeless shelters in Montgomery County.
These gifts are so appreciated!