Comal County 4-H News

4-H Community Service Opportunity

2012-02-10T16:26:00.000-06:00

Follow us on Twitter!

2012-02-09T00:35:00.000-06:00

Clover Kudos: THANK YOU, Kolton Neuse, Jana Hardin, Mr. Chris Wiemers & Mr. Keith Neuse!!

2012-02-09T00:26:00.000-06:00

Wednesday night's Lamb & Goat Workshop was very educational and so helpful! Special thanks to: Kolton Neuse, Jana Hardin, Mr. Chris Wiemers & Mr. Keith Neuse!!

TEEA Scholarship - DUE FEBRUARY 15th

2012-02-08T16:53:00.000-06:00

Click here to get the information on how to apply for the Texas Extension Education Association Scholarship. This is DUE FEBRUARY 15th and requires last year's recordbook!

More information on the LOCAL Extension Education Clubs' Scholarship should be posted by the end of the month!

4-H Google Calendar

2012-02-07T10:19:00.002-06:00

Summer Camps at the 4-H Center

2012-02-07T10:09:00.002-06:00

It's not too soon to be thinking about summer programs at the 4-H Center.

Comal County Junior Livestock Show Schedule

2012-02-06T09:33:00.001-06:00

You can see this schedule full-size at

http://ccjlsa.org/files/CCJLSA_Rulebook_2011_12.pdf

The schedule is on page 5 of the Rulebook.

Lamb & Goat Project Meetings/Trainings

2012-02-03T10:14:00.001-06:00

Open to ALL Comal County 4-H members, leaders, and parents.
Exhibitors with less that 3 years experience are especially encouraged to attend.

Sessions to be led by various guest speakers.

Lamb and Goat exhibitors are encouraged to bring their project animals to the meeting for hands-on work.

Outline of monthly agendas below:

Wednesday, February 8, 2012 – 7-8 pm – Extension Project Barn

All 3 Species: Showmanship; Quality Counts

Additional Topic(s) as needed or requested

weigh, worm, trim hooves, and ....

Saturday, February 25, 2012 – 9-11 am – Extension Project Barn

Slick Shear Workday

Hoof Trimming

Bluebonnet 4-H Club - January meeting

2012-02-02T11:43:00.001-06:00

The Bluebonnet 4H club met Monday, January 16th at Hoffman Lane Elementary. Members got up and told what they did at the Cougar Classic and 4H Practice Show. We congratulated the Food Challenge Teams who won County and District. The kids got to hear about Carly Hoffman going to Texas Leadership Conference in Washington, D. C. Ms. Hoffmann discussed the recordbook training in January. The Bluebonnet Club will not meet in February. Good Luck to all at the County and Major Shows!

Submitted by Harrison Kimble

Fancy Feathers Open Chicken Show - March 10th

2012-02-02T11:43:00.000-06:00

Fancy Feathers 4-H Club would like to invite everyone to attend the 5^th Annual Fancy Feathers 4-H Open Chicken Show on March 10, 2012 from 10am to 3pm at the Comal County Fairgrounds in New Braunfels.

This show not only offers an open APA/ABA sanctioned show, but both youth and backyard chicken enthusiasts are welcome to enter and/or attend.

The show is primarily member run. Fancy Feathers 4-H Club focuses on raising, breeding, and/or showing Fancy and Backyard Chickens – not broilers!

The show will feature Raffle Prizes, Silent Auctions, a Concession Stand, a Youth Showmanship Competition with trophy belt buckle prizes for Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion, a Marans Meet & Marans Egg Show, SCNA & Lone Star Serama Council Meet with the first-in-Texas Serama Table-top Training Clinic, a special Cluck-Off Contest where you show us your best imitation of a hen or rooster (winner gets a trophy and half of entry fees), an Eggs-ibition, Home Depot Kids Workshop, and lots of fun!

Visit www.fancyfeatherstx.org for show details and more information

Senior Age-Divison 4-H Fashion Show

2012-02-01T14:54:00.006-06:00

****** New this year ******

Senior Age-Division Fashion Show Contestants will declare their category on Google Docs by clicking on the link below. Senior Age-Division Fashion Show participants must be 14 by 8/31/11 but not have reached 19 by 8/31/11.

All contestants are asked to sign up by 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 7. Changes may be made until 8:00 a.m. on Friday, February 10, 2012.

Link to Google Doc:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AkCkFzQVvqPIdEhZQTVOQTlwQVR3OTFiSFRyRDN4V2c

Homegrown 4-H Club - January meeting

2012-02-01T12:38:00.000-06:00

The Homegrown 4-H Club met on Thursday, January 9, with twenty-two members in attendance. The business meeting was brief with quick updates on club projects and reminders of upcoming deadlines. A program and introduction to public speaking was given by Mrs. Merle Kaderli, a retired school teacher, auctioneer and award winning Toast Master.

Just a reminder that we will not have a regular club meeting in February. Only club officers will meet for planning purposes. Our next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on March 8 at 2:30 at the Extension Meeting room.

Submitted by: Camryn Stetter

4-H Night at the Ball Park!

2012-02-01T08:15:00.000-06:00

Range & Pasture Plant ID Contest @ Ft. Worth - Results!

2012-01-30T08:21:00.000-06:00

Ft. Worth Stock Show – January 21, 2012

Range & Pasture Plant Identification Contest

The Junior Team won Reserve Champion.

The team members were from left to right – Hayden Mathews, Ashley Fuqua, Reagan Hopper, and Davis Mathews.

Individual awards went to:

Reagan Hopper – Reserve Champion

Davis Mathews – 4^th High Individual

Hayden Mathews – 9^th High Individual

The Senior team placed 5^th.

The team members were from left to right Lane Belanger, Rachel Fuqua and Logan Belanger.

Way to go Range Teams!!!!!

Texas 4-H Congress Dates Announced

2012-01-27T14:40:00.000-06:00

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

2012 Texas 4-H Congress

July 15-18, 2012

Austin, Texas

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Texas 4-H Congress, go to our website! Click here.

Possible Grants for One Day Projects

2012-01-27T11:30:00.000-06:00

Sharing possible grant opportunity for 4-H groups.

Friends for Change Grants offer young change-makers an opportunity to receive a $1,000 grant to help make a lasting, positive change in the world.

Whether you are passionate about protecting the planet, providing meals to those who need it or giving kids just like you the resources they need to star in their own play, be an athlete or an artist, you can be a Friend for Change! Whatever your interests, a Disney Friends for Change Grant can help you make a difference for people, communities and the planet.

Youth ages 5-18 located in all 50 states and the District of Columbia are eligible to apply for a $1,000 grant.

Applications are due by midnight on February 29, 2012.

Learn more at: www.YSA.org/grants/disney-friends-change-grants

Houston Quarter Horse Youth Show - Feb 1st Deadline

2012-01-27T11:22:00.000-06:00

Quarter Horse Youth Show – March 2012 – SEE ATTACHED FLYER

ENTRY DEADLINE IS FEBRUARY 1ST - WITHOUT LATE PENALTY

Horticulture Competitions at the Houston Livestock Show

2012-01-27T11:17:00.000-06:00

NO ENTRY FEES - DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 3, 2012

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

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

Youth Division:

Floral Arrangements: Exhibitors create floral arrangements using fresh and dried materials that communicate their interpretation of two themes, Dining with a Texas Flair and Rodeo Action.
Container Grown Plants: Exhibitors cultivate a collection of container grown fresh plant material.
Photography: Exhibitors enter an original photograph that captures horticultural elements; the composition must include a road, path or trail.
Landscaping: Exhibitors may enter as an individual or team to design a 6' square outdoor planter around the theme,Celebrating Texas Heritage

Adult Division:

Floral Arrangements: Exhibitors create floral arrangements using fresh and dried materials that communicate their interpretation of two themes, Dining with a Texas Flair and Rodeo Action.
Container Grown Plants: Exhibitors enter cultivated collections of container grown fresh plant material, either in the cacti collection or general collection category.
Cut Specimens:

Collections - Exhibitors may enter cut specimens right out of their flower beds.
Edibles - Exhibitors may submit samples from their vegetable garden.

Photography: Exhibitors enter an original photograph that captures horticultural elements; the composition must include a gate or entryway.
Landscaping - Outdoor Living on a Budget: Exhibitors may enter as an individual or team to design a 400-square-foot living space on a $1,000 budget.

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

If you are interested, email Janet (extjls@co.comal.tx.us) for the application form(s). Please specify Youth or Adult.

Operation: Military Kids and 4-H Night with the SPURS!

2012-01-27T11:09:00.000-06:00

Below is a flyer for Operation: Military Kids and 4-H Night for Monday, March 12^th at the Spurs game! TICKET DEADLINE: February 29th

The Exclusive OMK and 4-H Package Includes:

- Spurs Discounted Group Ticket

- FREE Hot Dog

- FREE Bag of Chips

- FREE Soda

- Post-Game group picture on the SPURS!

- Special recognition of ALL OMK & 4-H members in attendance!

2nd Annual Texas 4-H Volunteer Conference - July 27-29, 2012

2012-01-27T11:01:00.001-06:00

The 2012 4-H Volunteer Conference is please to announce a request for workshop proposals for the 2nd Annual Texas 4-H Volunteer Conference, which will be held July 27-29, 2012 in San Antonio. The theme for this year's conference is "Transpiring Imagination." Any volunteer, County Extension Agent or Specialist is invited to submit a proposal to present a workshop at the conference. This is a great opportunity to share your ideas and project successes with others. The deadline to submit a proposal is February 1st. More information and online submission form can be accessed from the volunteer conference website, which is: http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/volunteers/conference.

WHY should you attend?

Over 30 educational workshops focusing on 4-H projects and opportunities
Pre-conference session on Friday afternoon for newer volunteers, highlighting 4-H basics
Learn the latest and greatest of what's going on in the Texas 4-H program
Enjoy an energizing and motivational keynote address
Network with volunteers from around the great state of Texas
Because every 4-H member deserves a trained volunteer!

We hope you'll make plans to attend this year's conference. More information and updates are available on the

Volunteer Conference Website.

Bexar County Project Show - May 19, 2012

2012-01-27T10:47:00.002-06:00

Bexar County Project Show - Entries DUE Friday, May 4, 2012

This show is open to anyone ages 5 - 18, you do not have to be enrolled in 4-H. Spread the word to your friends and school classmates who would like to show off their creative skills. You can enter photos, metal projects, art projects, crafts and much more. The show is scheduled for Saturday, May 19^th at the Ft. Sam Houston School Age Services Bldg., San Antonio, Texas. Cost is $2 per class. Entry deadline is Friday, May 4th. There will be lots of fun activities for you to participate in while your entry is being judged. Watch for more details on these activities soon.

Entry form and rules are posted on our web site under the publications tab. Go to http://comal.agrilife.org to check it out!

Hill Country Central - January meeting

2012-01-27T10:29:00.000-06:00

Hill Country Central met on January 17th at the Canyon High School Ag Barn with 25 in attendance. One new member was welcomed. Club members shared their entries in the 4-H Livestock Show in December - well done, club!!! Many thanks go to Mrs. Acker for her hard work in the concession stand and thank you, club, for volunteering, as well. Our club won the "Soup for Seniors" contest - good job, club! A total of 1425 cans of soup were donated by Comal County 4-H Clubs! Note: New rules online for the Homemaking Show in March... volunteers needed! We donated $100 to the show again this year. Reminder: it's time to start working on recordbooks - there are new rules online.

Horse Skillathon - NEW at San Antonio Stock Show!

2012-01-27T08:04:00.000-06:00

HAVE YOU HEARD???

SAN ANTONIO TO DEBUT HORSE SKILLATHON CONTEST IN 2012

Young horse enthusiasts are invited to compete in the first-ever Horse Skillathon on February 18th at the 2012 San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. The Horse Skillathon is a brand new contest designed for students to showcase their knowledge of horses and the horse industry.

Contestants will be divided into three different age groups; junior (8-10), intermediate (11-13) and senior (14-18). This contest will be open to youth with a Texas residency. For complete eligibility requirements, see the Skillathon Rules link below.

The contest combines three important elements: book knowledge, hands-on experience, and ability to communicate knowledge of industry issues.

Participants will study materials and then apply their knowledge on the written exam. For the next phase, they will perform tasks at hands-on stations. Finally, participants in the senior division will present a public speech focusing on current issues within the horse industry.

Click on the links below for detailed information regarding the 2012 Horse Skillathon, or contact the Horse Show Office at 210.225.1309 or horse@sarodeo.com.

Contest Rules

Entry Form

Study Materials

ENTRY FEES

Entries can be mailed to the Horse Show Office and postmarked by February 1, 2012, accompanied by a $25 fee.

San Antonio Livestock Expo

Attn. Horse Show Office

P.O. Box 200230

San Antonio, TX 78220-0230

Entries will also be accepted at time of check in on the day of contest, February 18, 2012, with a $35 entry fee. Check in begins at 1:00pm in the Expo Hall and the contest will start at 2:00pm.

Please refer to the 2012 Horse Show Premium List for more information about this year's shows and educational contests.

Check out the Updates and Reminders for the 2012 San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo at www.sarodeo.com.

We look forward to your presence and participation at the 2012 Show!

Sincerely,

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo

Horse Show Department

(P): 210-225-1309

(E): horse@sarodeo.com

Animal Science Club - January meeting

2012-01-24T10:24:00.000-06:00

Animal Science met January 23rd with 32 in attendance. The program, by Jarred Ezzell, taught the group about the process of artificial insemination and the handling of semen. Homework assigned: 15-5 Collecting and Handling Semen, 15-6 Artificial Insemination and 15-7 Reproduction and Palpation.

Our next meeting will be February 27th at 7:00 p.m. and we will discuss Genetics and Disease.

Submitted by: Toni MacCrossan, Reporter

Bulverde 4-H Club - January meeting

2012-01-23T08:37:00.000-06:00

The Bulverde 4-H Club held its monthly meeting on January 9, 2012. We had a brief meeting, discussing the upcoming Youth Fair and Youth Day. We will again have our pinecone birdfeeders booth at Youth Day on February 11 at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo.

Don't forget, we will NOT be having a February or March meeting due to shows and spring break.
Thanks Bulverde!
Cassie Stricker

National Horse Judging Contest

2012-01-20T15:16:00.000-06:00

Horse Judging Contest at Johnson County

2012-01-20T15:11:00.000-06:00

Our Horse Judging Team competed at the Johnson County Horse Judging Contest Saturday, January 14, 2012. We had an awesome contest because of the hard work and dedication of our Horse Judgers, and the involvement and help of the parents.

In our Senior age division, we had 2 teams.

One Senior team had Tristan Bill, Hayley Davison, Rachel Fuqua and Jacob Lanum. Individually, Tristan placed 2^nd in Halter.

On our other Senior team with Ian Acosta, Taylor Helms, Becca Shook and Elizabeth Simpson, they placed 1^st in Halter, 1^st in Performance, and 4^th Overall. Individually, Elizabeth Simpson placed 8^th in Halter. Taylor placed 3^rd in Performance, 9^th in Reasons and 8^th Overall. Becca placed 1^st in Halter, 1^st in Performance, 7^th in Reasons and 3^rd Overall.

In our Intermediate age division, we had 3 teams and 1 combined county team with Kirstin Colyer. One of our Intermediate teams consisted of Emily Boylan, Cody Elbel, Ashley Fuqua and Marie Goulais. Individually, Ashley Fuqua placed 10^th in Performance.

On our other Intermediate team with Erin Hunter, Brenna Lee, Megan Lee, and Abigale Osborne, they placed 3^rd in Performance. Individually, Erin placed 8^th in Performance. Brenna placed 9^th in Halter Reasons and 5^th in Performance Reasons.

On our last Intermediate team with Kaylee Acosta, Grace Buschfort, Clay Elbel, and Valerie Williams, they placed 2^nd in Halter, 5^th in Performance, 3^rd in Reasons, and 4^th Overall. Individually, Clay placed 7^th in Halter Reasons. Valerie placed 3^rd in Halter and 9^th Overall. Grace placed 4^th in Performance, 8^th in Halter Reasons, 3^rd in Performance Reasons and 3^rd Overall.

In our Junior age division, we had 3 teams and 1 combined county team with Kenzy Hoffmann. Kenzy placed 10^th in Reasons.

One of our Junior teams consisting of Elise Almquist, Cassidy Lanum, Emma Watson and Jaden Westfall, they placed 5^th Performance and 5^th in Reasons.

On our other Junior team with Jack Lanier, Luke Lanier, Caleb Shook and Reese Simpson, they placed 4^th in Halter and 3^rd in Reasons. Individually, Luke placed 10^th in Halter, 7^th in Performance and 7^th Overall.

On our final team with Makenzie Knipe, Kate Roach, Kellie Roach, and Shelby Simpson, they placed 2^nd in Halter, 4^th in Performance, 2^nd in Reasons and 2^nd Overall. Individually, Makenzie placed 5^th in Reasons. Kate placed 2^nd in Halter and 2^nd in Reasons. Kellie placed 4^th in Performance, 6^th in Reasons and 6^th Overall. Shelby placed 7^th in Reasons and 1^st in Halter.

Rabbit Club - January meeting

2012-01-18T10:38:00.000-06:00

The Rabbit Club met on January 17th with 33 in attendance. The program topic, by Emily Scott and Maureen Dunckel, was on how to feed your bunnies. If you need to feed your babies you need to get kitten milk replacer. You can only feed each rabbit 13 cc's a day. Also, if your rabbits are close to 5 pounds, you can feed them the ratio we discussed at the meeting. However, if they need to gain weight, you can feed them dry, uncooked Quaker Oats.

Meat pen validation is Sunday, February 19th at the Comal County fairgrounds from 1 to 5 p.m. Rabbits must be at least 3 pounds and at most 5 pounds.

We will not have a regular meeting in February.

Submitted by: Sara Koepp

Attention: High School Parents

2012-01-17T08:29:00.000-06:00

There are infinite resources available to parents and families related to college preparedness. District 12 has compiled a website specifically to assist 4-H families in finding these resources and making sense of them. Visit their website at http://d124-h.tamu.edu/college/ that focuses on Applying, Paying, and Planning for college

Sherwood 4-H Club - January meeting

2012-01-13T11:34:00.000-06:00

Sherwood 4-H Club met Monday, January 9th with 31 people attending. The program was Upcoming 4-H Projects, presented by Natalie Irving. Each 4-H member discussed past and upcoming projects in 4-H. We discussed entry forms and new rules for the Youth Homemaking and Art Fair. Our next meeting will be 10 a.m. on March 24th at our Adopt-a-Senior, Mrs. MacDonald's home, where we will do spring cleaning and yard clean up.

Soup for Seniors Final Summary

2012-01-13T08:25:00.002-06:00

The county-wide Soup for Seniors project was a huge success. Thanks to all of you who donated soup many senior citizens in Comal County have food in their pantry that they would not have had otherwise. There was a final total of 1,275 cans donated! Three organizations in Comal County benefited from this project. They were the Bulverde Senior Center, the Habitat for Safe Seniors in Canyon Lake, and Laurel Plaza in New Braunfels. Each one of these organizations received 425 cans. All of the organizations were so grateful to receive the much needed food. One of the things that each group said was that this food would come in handy now that the holidays are over, since many donations come in for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but the months of January and February can be sparse for some of these needy seniors.

While making the deliveries of these canned food items, some other ideas on how 4-H'ers can help senior citizens in our county were discussed. At the next County Council meeting, I will share some of these ideas so that they may be taken back to each club for participation and involvement.

I personally was overwhelmed by the response to this project. I really appreciate the time and effort that was taken by all to buy, collect, label, and bring all of those cans to the Extension Office. I was honored to deliver them on your behalf. I am and always will be proud to be a Comal County 4-H'er.

Sincerely,

Daniela

Training Opportunities for Shooting Sports Coaches

2012-01-10T13:10:00.000-06:00

The Shooting Sports Project is a comprehensive introduction to shooting sports safety and the fundamentals of archery, pistol, rifle, shotgun, muzzleloading, and hunting. Youth may participate in one or more of the listed disciplines, however, all disciplines may not be offered in every county.

If you intend to serve as a direct volunteer with youth and have not been screened by a criminal background check, please contact the Extension office immediately. All adults wishing to participate in a coach training must be certified adult volunteers through 4-H Connect and through the Youth Protection Standards Program (YPS). Please do not wait until the last minute - it takes a while to get processed through the system! If a volunteer is currently certified by a nationwide criminal background check through another entity, this YPS process may be skipped by disclosing proper credentials and documentation to the State 4-H Office. A list of approved prior screening entities and the proper documentation may be found by clicking here.

Upcoming trainings include:

Feb 4-5: Hunting/Wildlife Coach Certification & Training, College Station - Registration on 4-H Connect closes Jan. 20!

February, 2012: Floating Natural Resources Leader Training, Location TBA - Topics: Shooting Sports Coach Training

Mar 24-25: North Region Natural Resources Leader Trainings, Lubbock - Topics: Shooting Sports Coach Training, Wildlife Education Leader Training

May 19-20: East Region Natural Resources Leader Trainings, Tyler - Topics: Shooting Sports Coach Training, Sportfishing Project Leader Training

Aug 11-12: West Region Natural Resources Leader Trainings, San Angelo - Topics: Shooting Sports Coach Training, Wildlife Education Leader Training

September, 2012: Floating Natural Resources Leader Trainings - Location TBA - Topics: Shooting Sports Coach Training, Sportfishing Project Leader Training

Oct 13-14: South Regional Natural Resources Trainings, Victoria - Topics: Shooting Sports Coach Training, WHEP Leader Training & Practice Contest

2012 Thacher Environmental Research Contest for Grades 9-12

2012-01-10T11:34:00.001-06:00

$3500 in Cash Awards Available - Entries Due: April 16, 2012 - www.strategies.org/thachercontest

"Be part of a new generation of problem solvers that will meet the challenges posed by a changing planet."

From the movement of Hurricane Irene up the east coast of the United States to images of the receding ice in polar regions, scientists and decision-makers rely upon satellites and other observing instruments to understand the extent and impact of environmental changes. These tools are offered to the public with ever increasing accessibility, turning people into citizen scientists.

The 2012 Thacher Environmental Research Contest, held by the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies, provides high school students (grades 9-12) with the opportunity to conduct innovative research on our changing planet and win cash prizes for their efforts. Students must demonstrate the best uses of the latest geospatial tools and data to study the Earth.

Entries can be submitted by individuals or teams, but are due by April 16, 2012. For more information, including a list of resources for geospatial data, please visit www.strategies.org/ThacherContest

1st Annual Texas 4-H Golf Challenge Camp

2012-01-10T11:11:00.001-06:00

Texas 4-H is pleased to announce an advanced opportunity for youth interested in learning more about the Texas 4-H Golf Challenge. The three day, two night camp will be hosted April 27-29, 2012 in College Station. Youth will have the opportunity to work with Texas A&M faculty and staff, as well as Golf Professionals in areas related to Turf Grass Management, Sports Nutrition, and Fundamentals of Golf. While learning fundamentals of golf, youth will also compete in different skill events for various prizes and awards. The cost to register is $250, and includes two nights lodging, three meals, transportation to and from hotel, Texas A&M faculty teaching instruction, professional golf instruction, and all other expenses. Registration will be open February 1st through March 30th, and is limited to the first 30 youth registered. This is a great opportunity for a limited number of youth to prepare for the regional Golf Challenge events that will begin in July, with the state qualifying event taking place in August. Do not miss out on this fun and exciting opportunity. Register on 4-H Connect!!

Deep in the Heart - COMING SOON - February 17th

2012-01-10T11:07:00.000-06:00

Coming to all Texas Cinemark Theaters February 17th, "Deep in the Heart," from the director of "Pure Country," reveals the true-life story of Mr. Richard "Dick" Wallrath. No one person has ever given more financially to the Texas 4-H and FFA Scholarship Programs than Dick Wallrath. He has also provided tremendous financial assistance to 4-H and FFA members through major livestock show premium auctions.

We sincerely request that 4-H families support this emotion-packed documentary of Dick's life for two reasons: 1) It could have an impact on your own life and 2) because of Mr. Wallrath's continued generosity, a portion of all ticket sales will go to both Texas 4-H and Texas FFA to further strengthen their much-needed scholarship programs.

Opening weekend is February 17th. The success of opening weekend will dictate their plan for nationwide release. Of course, the more success the movie has, the more funds are contributed to Texas 4-H and Texas FFA! (I'm sure you've heard us say "He/She got the Wallrath Scholarship!" at State 4-H Roundup.

This movie stars Jon Gries, Val Kilmer, Elaine Hendrix, DB Sweeney, Rheagan Wallace and James Haven. Watch for it at a Cinemark Theater near you!

San Antonio Stock Show Youth Country Fair

2012-01-09T11:16:00.000-06:00

It's time to pull out your cookbooks and clean off your mixing bowls - time for the 2012 San Antonio Livestock Show and Rodeo Youth Country Fair! New this year: DRAWINGS FOR DOOR PRIZES (must be present to win!) WHILE YOUR ITEMS ARE BEING JUDGED! WOOHOO!

The rules and entry form are posted on our web site! Click HERE!

Scholarship Training Available to View Online

2011-12-27T14:35:00.000-06:00

4-H offers ___ academic & 4-H experience scholarships.

The 4-H Opportunity Scholarship Training which was conducted on Monday, December 12th is available for viewing for those thatwere unable to attend. To view the presentation, click on the following link: http://webconference.tamus.edu/GP/main/0000001786550000013304b01fb3a388

The training covers the guidelines and requirements for applying for a Texas 4-H Opportunity Scholarship, as well as detailed instruction and direction for each of the application pages. The total presentation is approximately two hours in length.

Additional notes:
You will need to create a "Centra" account to view the training playback. There is no charge for the Centra account. To creat an account:
Click on "Create Account" on the left side of the page.
Once you have created an account, you'll be able to access additional online 4-H trainings via Centra Symposium.

Login Information (Required)
Login: (Example: jsmith)
Password:
Retype Password:

Personal Information (Required)
First name:
Last name:
Email:
Display name: (Name as you would like for it to appear to other attendees - Example: Jane Smith)
Timezone:

SENIORS: MUST fill out FAFSA - NOW
This training is suitable for ANY HIGH SCHOOL 4-H MEMBERS!
FAFSA resources

High School JUNIORS: TAKE the SAT and/or ACT tests NOW!!!! Yes, take these tests during your Junior year. You want to leave yourself an opportunity to potenially re-take 1 of the tests.

High School FRESHMAN & SOPHMORES:
Get your GRADES UP and KEEP THEM UP!! Get

State Roundup - in LUBBOCK?!? Yes!

2011-12-19T11:11:00.000-06:00

Howdy Texas 4-Hers!

Your Texas 4-H State Council would first like to say how excited and honored we are to be serving you this year. One of the biggest projects we are working on is Texas 4-H Roundup 2012! We have so many fun and exciting surprises in store for 4-H this year. Our goal as your 4-H State Council is to serve you, create new experiences, and make the best better. Because 4-H is growing and creating new experiences this year, especially in the area of State Roundup we as a council created a motto we would like to share with you. “A new team, a new experience…it’s history in the making!” As 4-Hers across Texas you create and inspire those new experiences, helping to make history every day. As fellow 4-Hers we look forward to making history with you.

Texas 4-H Roundup will be June 11- 15, 2012 at Texas Tech University. This is a new and adventurous opportunity in which both Senior and Intermediate 4-Hers are invited to participate. Whether it is through a qualifying event for Seniors, Invitational workshops for all ages or just the other fun events Roundup is going to be great this year! We have a couple of exciting updates for you.... First, Aaron Watson will be performing at Roundup this year on Thursday night so mark it on your calendars. Also, the annual trade show will be coming to Roundup with all of its former goodies and then some.

Look for more updates on the 4-H State Council and Roundup 2012 right here or online via our facebook page 2012 Texas 4-H Roundup: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/2012-Texas-4-H-Roundup/315843191775648 and the Teas 4-H Roundup website: http://texas4-h.tamu/youth/roundup/index.php .

“To Make the Best Better.”

Your 2012 Texas 4-H Council

Scotland/Ireland Tour for 4-H Youth and Adults!

2011-12-05T15:03:00.000-06:00

Tour to Scotland and Ireland for 4-H youth and adults who would like to attend! Youth must be 15 at the time of travel if traveling without parent!

TOUR FEE INCLUDES:
- Round-trip airfare
- Full European breakfast daily
- Dinner daily
- Full-time services of a professional Tour Director
- Guided sightseeing tours and city walks as per itinerary
- Visits to select attractions as per itinerary
- Overnight stays in hotels with private bathrooms

Group Information
- Tour Center ID: Bading-5255
- Departing From: Dallas
- Group Leader: Charla
- Departing From: Dallas
- Departing: July 3, 2013
- Returning: July 12, 2013
- Tour Fee increases on March 1, 2012

YOU CAN SIGN UP AT:
http://www.explorica.com/Bading-5255

Student Enrollment Instructions
Go to explorica.com and, under “STUDENTS,” select “Sign Up” to begin.
1. Enter your Tour Center ID Bading-5255 and click “go.”
2. Click “sign up now” and fill out the application.
3. Click “next” and fill out Emergency Contact Information.
4. Review your selections and enter your Voucher Code* if you have one. By default, you’re signed
up for Explorica’s strongly recommended Travel Protection Plan; if you wish to remove the
coverage,select “change selections.” For details on the Travel Protection Plan, go to
explorica.com/protect for more information. When finished, click “accept selections” to continue.
5. Choose a payment plan that is most convenient for you. Your first payment can be made using
Visa, Mastercard or electronic check. When you select “next,” you’ll have the opportunity to review
all of your information and selections before confirming payment.
If you register by December 15th you can get $100 off your trip:
> Your $100 Voucher Code is fallplan100 and is only valid until December 15th.

Vet Science Skillathon Application & Guidelines

2011-11-14T08:32:00.002-06:00

We are pleased to announce the release of the 2012 Texas 4-H Veterinary Science Skillathon Application and Guidelines! This is an exciting, hands-on contest for youth in the Veterinary Science project to showcase their skills in a little friendly competition! Please forward this information onto your 4-H Veterinary Science project leaders and 4-H members.

A few important dates:

· Friday, March 16, 2012: Postmark deadline for Application

· Early April 2012: Applicants will be notified of acceptance

· April 11-May 9, 2012: Regular Registration Period for Texas 4-H Roundup

· Thursday, June 14, 2012: Veterinary Science Skillathon Contest at Texas 4-H Roundup

Applications and complete guidelines are attached and can be found online at:

http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/projects/projects/index_projects.php

2012 District 10 4-H Small Bore Rifle Contest

2011-11-09T10:50:00.002-06:00

The District 4-H Smallbore Rifle Contest will be held on Saturday, April 14, 2012 at the Wilson County Fairgrounds in Floresville.

Registration will be on 4-H Connect March 19-30, 2012. Registration fees will be $10 per person.

Age divisions, as of August 31, 2011:
- Junior - 8 and in the 3rd grade, 9 or 10 years old
- Junior Intermediate - 11 or 12
- Intermediate - 13
- Senior - 14-18 years old

Counties may enter as many teams as they wish in each age division. Two individuals per age division may enter and individuals are eligible for high point individual awards.

Friday, April 13th may be added as an additional shooting date if entries exceed limit.

Contestants are required to provide their own firearms and ammunition. Targets will be provided.

District Rules:
1) Coaches are responsible for safety of equipment; however, the selected range officer will have the authority to deem something unsafe and make corrections at time of the contest.
2) NRA rules will be followed except as noted. State rules apply at District Contest.
3) Adequate and appropriate eye and ear protection is required for all persons on the firing line.
4) 4-H'ers must register through 4-H Connect.
5) There will be a charge of $1 per challenge of target scoring. Senior shooters must challenge by themselves - all others are allowed to have a coach present during the challenge.

2012 Texas 4-H & Youth Development Opportunities Scholarship Applications

2011-11-09T10:50:00.001-06:00

The Texas 4-H and Youth Development Program and the Texas 4-H Youth Development Foundation are pleased to offer our high school seniors and current college students the opportunity to apply for an Opportunity Scholarship through the Texas 4-H Program.

The application, instructions and online training are available online at the Texas 4-H web site.

What is new for 2012?
- Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo will allow home and private school youth to be considered for their scholarships in 2012!
- Courageous Heart applicants cannot be considered for other scholarship categories.
- Applicants who are invited and participate in interviews are NOT guaranteed a scholarship.
- Applicants will NOT be excused from either the face-to-face interviews or the scholarship assembly. Applicants and families should plan accordingly based on the dates provided in the guidelines!

Due dates and deadlines for 2012 scholarships:
November 2011 - January 2012: Scholarship Trainings
November - December: Applicant completes FAFSA and receives report
February 1, 2012: Applications DUE in county office
April 13, 2012: Interview selection notification
May 4-6, 2012: Interviews (in Austin, TX)
June 11, 2012: Awards Program/Banquets (Lubbock, TX)

District Photography Contest

2011-11-08T16:47:00.000-06:00

Registration for the District 4-H Photography Contest will be held on 4-H Connect February 27 through March 9, 2012. Cost for registration will be $5 per person.

Photos are to be MAILED or delivered to the Wilson County Extension Office, P O Box 278, Floresville, TX 78114, postmarked by March 9, 2012. Any photos not postmarked by March 9 will be disqualified.

Each 4-H member may enter up to three (3) photos. Photos DO NOT have to be in different categories (i.e. 4-H'er may enter 3 animals-wildlife photos). There is also a District Category called Creative Display, which allows members to show their creativity with photos in a scrapbook layout. (You may enter three photos AND one Creative Display item!). Creative Display item MUST be in a page protector!

Photos must be taken by the 4-H member between May 1, 2011 and the 2012 District Contest.

District Photography Contest information is posted on our web site (click here). Be sure to print the Photo Label, which must be affixed to the back of your photograph.

4-H Recipe Rally

2011-10-31T14:00:00.005-05:00

What is the 4-H Recipe Rally?
View an online overview/training on YouTube at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-u0c1hfz-0. The video is less than 8 minutes, so it won't take too much time to learn the basics about this opportunity presented to intermediate and senior 4-H members.

Want more info about the 4-H Recipe Rally?

A one-page overview is also available on the 4-H Healthy Lifestyles Program webpage, in addition to:

4-H Recipe Rally Scoresheet
Instructions on how to post a video to YouTube
Sample Recipe Rally Video

Here’s a direct link to the 4-H Healthy Lifestyles webpage:
http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/projects/healthy_lifestyles/index.php

The contest is open to intermediates and seniors, with the top three in each age division invited to participate in the 2012 Texas 4-H Roundup at Lubbock. The theme for the 2012 contest is "Summer Snacks." Entry deadline is February 1, 2012.

Please contact Courtney Dodd at 979-845-6533 or cfdodd@ag.tamu.edu if you have any questions about the Recipe Rally.

Council Club Assignments for 2011-2012

2011-10-31T13:47:00.002-05:00

NEW 4-H Recordbooks - Information & Trainings offered

2011-10-31T12:57:00.008-05:00

The new online recordbook system is available NOW for 4-H members to start recording project events and activities for the current 4-H year. The new recordkeeping/recordbook system includes 3 different report forms based on a member's 4-H age. The forms are designed to be age appropriate and user-friendly for youth, hoping to ease the stress and household fights among parents and their kids :). Only the current year information is required on the forms.

4-Hers, parents and leaders are strongly encouraged to log on to the system now and start entering project goals, events, and activities as they occur throughout this 4-H year. The forms, an instructional guide, and short instructional videos can be accessed at http://4hreports.com/.

• Online-forms available at http://4hreports.com/ (recommended)
OR
• Download paper forms from the Texas 4-H website on the Record Keeping and Record Books webpage

Highlights of the NEW system:

Different forms for each age group based on age appropriateness (Junior, Intermediate, Senior - progressive in nature)
Added goal setting section for Juniors and Intermediates
No more project/recordbook objectives
No more captions on photos
No more resume for Seniors
Added Career Exploration section for Seniors

What should YOU be doing NOW?

Members should be setting goals for projects/project work for the current year
Start taking pictures of project work and activities
Start entering information on the 4-H reports website!

Recordbook Workshop/Training

January 24 - 7:00 p.m. - Extension Meeting Room

Comal County 4-H - Even MORE Social

2011-10-12T04:19:00.004-05:00

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Follow us on Twitter @Comal4H - http://twitter.com/Comal4H

"Like" us on Facebook - Comal County 4-H Fan Page

La Quinta Discount for 4-H Supporters

2011-10-03T10:06:00.000-05:00

Traveling Around?

Save 15% for being a 4-H Supporter at LaQuinta. LaQuinta Inns & Suites is proud to
be a part of an Alliance Agreement with the Texas 4-H Program. Supporters can enjoy a 15% discount at any of the 700 plus locations. Visit LQ.com (code TX4H) or call 800-SLEEPLQ. Ask for the “TX4H Youth Discount.”

State Roundup Changes - June 2012

2011-10-03T09:26:00.000-05:00

As many of you may have already heard, the 2012 Texas 4-H Roundup marks the first year to be held off the campus of Texas A&M University and on the campus of Texas Tech University in Lubbock. This will be an exciting opportunity to see Roundup on a new stage! In addition to the new location, numerous contest changes are also taking place.

The following contests are being discontinued from Texas 4-H Roundup effective September 1, 2011:
- Agronomy Educational Presentation
- Consumer Life Skills Educational Presentation
- Farm and Ranch Economics Educational Presentation
- Food and Nutrition Educational Presentation
- Horticulture Educational Presentation
- Housing and Home Environment Educational Presentation
- Meat Science Educational Presentation
- Shooting Sports Educational Presentation

As a result of these contest closings, there will be some additional contests included in the 2012 Roundup. They are:
- Open - Agriculture and Natural Resource Educational Presentation
- Open - Family and Consumer Sciences Educational Presentation
- Invitational Swine Quiz Bowl
- Invitational Meats Identification Contest and Workshop

A complete list of all the contests will be provided in the 2012 Texas 4-H Roundup Rules and Guidelines which is supposed to be published and sent out October 1st.

Share-the-Fun 2012

2011-09-26T16:25:00.003-05:00

The 2012 Texas 4-H Share-the-Fun Contest Rules and Regulations are posted on our web site (click here to see them!).

A total of six (6) categories will be offered for the 2012 contest. They include:
- Celebrate 4-H
- Choreographed Routines
- Musical/Instrumental
- Poetry/Prose
- Solo/Band Performance
- Vocal

To determine the appropriate category for entry, refer to the descriptions in the Rules and Regulations. Participants must compete with the same material at all levels - County, District and State (only Senior-aged 4-H'ers can go to State!). You may fine-tune your act between contests, but you may not change the content.

State orientation is on Wednesday, June 13, 2012 in Lubbock at Texas Tech, with judging on Thursday, June 14th.

Watch the newsletter for more information on County Roundup - where you will perform for the first time! There will be more information available in the Spring from the State office, as well.

2011-2012 State 4-H Photography Contest Rules

2011-09-20T14:06:00.000-05:00

The new Photography Contest rules and guidelines are now posted on our web site. Click here to see the rules for senior-aged 4-H'ers (14+). We may only enter one photograph per category, so there WILL be county judging. County entries are due by March 9, 2012.

Some of the changes for the 2012 contest include:

- Theme Category is TRAINS. This theme allows 4-H members to take photos of all types of trains. The train theme includes both real and model trains. Photo subject must be either the engine or a train car. Photos of train accessories such as stations/depots, signs, tracks, etc. are NOT ALLOWED.

- STORY BOARD has been added back as a category.

- Formatting of photos has been simplified. In 2012 all photos must be able to be printed at a 300 dpi at a 3x5 inch size. Max memory size of 1.5 MB.

- Both entry form and uploading of photos will all be done on 4-H CONNECT.

- Time period for entry on 4-H Connect will be from April 1-15, 2012.

- Please read the rules carefully!

4-H Council Officers for 2011-2012

2011-07-18T13:12:00.002-05:00

Your 2011-2012 4-H Council officers are:

President- Bridget O'Brien

1st Vice President- Daniela McCarthy

2nd Vice President- Kaleigh King

3rd Vice President- Rachel Fuqua

Secretary- Peyton Waldrip

Treasurer- Kimberly Phelan

Reporter/Historian- Carly Hoffmann

Parliamentarian- Ashley Ikels

District Delegates - Rachel Fuqua, Carly Hoffmann, Kimberly Phelan

Council officers were installed at the 4-H Awards Program on August 11th.

LONE STAR COLLECTIONS 4-H JEWELRY

2011-02-16T18:30:00.011-06:00

The Texas 4-H Foundation is excited to announce a new alliance with Lone Star Silversmith. Lone Star Silversmith has designed a 4-H jewelry collection set which includes a ring, pendant, bangle bracelet, and earrings. CLICK HERE to visit the Lone Star Collections 4-H Jewelry page on the Texas 4-H Website to see samples and order their current items. They have some awesome pieces! Lone Star Collections will donate 10% of all sales of the Texas 4-H line of jewelry to the Texas 4-H Youth Development Foundation in support of the statewide 4-H youth program. Lone Star Silversmith are also 1 of the Top 25 Buyers at the Comal County Jr. Livestock Show.

New Volunteer Website Features New Look and Links!

2010-12-17T03:46:00.007-06:00

In an effort to connect our volunteers with the latest volunteer resources the Texas 4-H Program VOLUNTEER WEBSITE has updated the look of the Volunteer website.The new look allows volunteers to "get connected" through a simulated smart phone graphic with detailed icon of the most commonly used, and requested, volunteer links. The new page also includes a newly posted video wishing our volunteers a very safe and happy holiday season.

The Volunteer website will be an on-going process that allows the 4-H Program to increase and expand our resource base. In addition to the Extension resources contained on the page it has links to the multiple social networks currently being utilized by the 4-H Program.

Follow Us On Facebook!

2010-07-09T09:40:00.003-05:00

Did you know that there is a Comal County 4-H page on Facebook? There is! Search for Comal Fourh and you'll find us there! "Friend" us and make our page even better!