Public Presentation Day 2015 is Saturday, March 7
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020
NON PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID Ballston Spa, NY 12020 Permit #19
Address Service Requested
Public Presentation Day 2015 is Saturday, March 7
Phone: 885-8995 Fax: 885-9078 1-800-443-0107 ext. 2230 www.ccesaratoga.org [email protected] * The 4-H emblem is protected under 18 U.S.C. 707
January 2015
It’s time to start thinking about 4-H Public Presentation Day, March 7, 2015. This fun and exhilarating day brings hundreds of local 4-H members together to practice the life skill of public speaking in a comfortable environment. It is open to all members, Cloverbuds and 4-H’ers, ages 5-19. A nationally recognized element of the Cooperative Extension 4-H Youth Program, it is often credited by 4-H alumni as having given them an edge above their peers in high school, college, and beyond. It is a good opportunity for youth to develop poise and self confidence in front of a small group, hone public speaking skills and express ideas clearly and creatively.
4-H Capital Days on page 2
4-H Walkathon on page 4
Continued on page 2 4-H Staff:
Program Committee
Mary Fairley, Extension Issue Leader Julie Curren, Extension Program Educator Carter Older, Extension Community Educator Greg Stevens, Extension Community Educator Marilyn Preissler, 4-H Administrative Assistant Richard Johnson, Printer
Dave Felano Paul Lasky Eileen Lindaman Kim Racaza Pam Hall Eileen Gerdes
Burnt Hills Ballston Spa Clifton Park Clifton Park Stillwater Saratoga Springs
Students Molly Alger Noah Amann
Middle Grove Mechanicville
Upcoming Events & Deadlines
Calling All 4-H’ers
2
Agriculture
5
Natural Resources 5 Community Service 6
13th - 4-H Leaders Association Meeting
4-H Leaders
7
Teen Update
7
20th - Public Presentation Day Training
10th - 4-H Horticulture Training 17th - Cloverbud Day “Cornell Cooperative Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities”
19th– Youth Project Day
12 1
Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ SaratogaCounty4H
Highlights
January 2015 11
19 Martin Luther King Day
12 4-H Leaders Assoc. Mtg.-7:00 pm
20 Horse Bowl Practice7:00pm Public Presentation Day Training - 6:30 pm
13 Horse Bowl Practice 7:00pm
4
18
26
25 27 Horse Bowl Practice 7:00pm
Calling All 4-H’ers Public Presentation Day (continued from page 1)
5
Mon
4-H Teen Ambassadors 6:30
Wed
Happy New Year! 1
9
2
10
3
Thu
8
15
22
29
23
16
31
24 Sewing Sensations 9:30 am
17 Sewing Sensations 9:30 am
Fri
30
Sat
2
Sewing Sensations 9:30 am
Teen Council - 7:00 pm 11
January 2015
Tue
7 Robotics 6:30 pm
7:00 pm
Teen Council Officers
14
21
28 Walkathon Committee Mtg. 6:30 pm
The dates for 2015 Capital Days trip are Sunday, March 1 – Tuesday, March 3, staying overnight at a hotel in Albany. Delegates are ages 14 years+. If you are interested, please send a letter to the 4-H Office by Friday, Jan. 23 with a paragraph or two on why you would like to attend. The expense of the trip is covered by a generous donation from the 4-H Leader’s Association.
6 Horse Bowl Practice 7:00pm
Training for leaders, parents and 4-H’ers, new and experienced, will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 20 at 6:45 pm here at the CCE Office, 50 W High St, in Ballston Spa. Training will cover the types of presentations, age guidelines, how to pick a topic, the 4-H presentation format, tips for posters and PowerPoints, a review of the evaluation guidelines and sheets, with breakout sessions forhorse communications and Cloverbuds. Mark your calendars- the big day this year is Saturday, March 7, 2015
4-H/FCS Program Committee 7:00
March will bring us to the annual Capital Days event held in Albany. This year marks the 80th year for this 4-H experience. Two teens will represent the Saratoga County on this out st anding three -day educational trip. The itinerary includes a tour of the capitol complex, a visit to the assembly and senate chambers, lively discussions on state government, a tour of a state department, and a stop at the Court of Appeals. A highlight of the trip is the chance to meet local legislators at a special breakfast on Tuesday morning. It is not uncommon for Assemblymen Jim Tedisco or Roy McDonald and/or Senators Hugh Farley and Kathy Marchione to stop by for a cup of coffee.
Sun
Capital Days 2015
Highlights
January 2015
4-H Cloverbud Day (ages 5-8)
“Super Scientists” Tuesday February 17, 2015 Cornell Cooperative Extension Office 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa Cost: $3.00, payable at the door 9:45 - 10:00 am
Registration
10:00 - 10:10 am
Group game
10:10 - 10:30 am
Science/ Activity Stations
10:30 - 10:40 am
Break
10:40 - 11:00 am
Continue with stations
11:00 - 11:20 am
Break
11:20 - 11:40 am
Continue with stations
Name __________________________________________________________ Grade___________ Age_________ Food Allergies________________________________________
Is there something we should know about your child to make this an enjoyable experience? ____________________________________________________________________________ Parent signature_________________________________________________ Parent name___________________________________Date_______________ Phone # where parent may be reached during Cloverbud Day___________________
10
SAVE THE DATE! 15th Annual Scholarship Golf Classic May 30, 2015
4-H in 2015….Important Dates to Remember
Cloverbud Registration Form - One form per person
Yes_____
January 2015
Fairway Of Halfmoon Registration 8:00 a.m. Shotgun Start at 9:00a.m.
11:40 am - 12:00 pm 4-H pledge and pictures
Able to help during Cloverbud Day
Highlights
No______
Public Presentation Training County Horse Bowl Cloverbud Day Youth Project Day Public Presentation Day Capital Days March Dog Madness at Cornell University Regional Horse Bowl (Fulton Montgomery) STARR teen trip Horse Communications (regional) Walkathon Animal Crackers at Cornell University Fashion Revue Saratoga Horse Symposium 4-H Golf Classic County Fair Books Available Sundae on the Farm Career Exploration County Fair Judging Day County Fair State Fair (Saratoga County) 3
Jan. 20 Feb. 10 Feb. 17 Feb. 19 March 7 March 1-3 March 21 March 21 April 10-12 April 25 May 2 May 2 May 15 May 16 May 30 June 1 June 21 June 30-July2 July 18 July 21-26 August 26-30
Highlights
January 2015
Highlights
January 2015
Saratoga County 4-H Robotics team heading to NYS Championships Recently the Saratoga County 4-H robotics team, Robovines FTC #6955 was part of the winning alliance at the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) qualifying match held at SUNY Poly in Utica, New York. This is the first time a 4-H club has won this qualifier. With the win the team has secured their place in the NYS Empire Region FIRST Tech Challenge Championship to be held on February 8 at Pace University in New York City.
When: April 10-12, 2015
22 teams and hundreds of students from as far away as New York City competed in this event. Organizers and instructors said the match was a chance for students to show what they have learned, and to qualify for the New York Empire Region FIRST Tech Challenge Championship. Teams consisting of youth ages 14 through 18 had to design a robot from scratch, program the robot to drive itself and design driver controlled applications as well. The Robovines are made up of five teenagers from Saratoga County. They started working on their robot in September when the challenge was announced, and have worked on the robot 5 to 10 hours a week since. In addition to robot building, they also work to promote and grow robotics in Saratoga County. For more information about the Robovines, or the 4-H Robotics program in Saratoga County, please contact the 4-H office at 885-8995.
Is the 2015 Walkathon on Your Schedule? Time is rushing by and plans are already being made for the 2015 4-H Walkathon! The date is May 2 and we will once again hold the event at the Saratoga Spa State Park. The past three years have been terrific, and we are hoping to have another successful event. As always, the purpose of the walk is to raise funds to support our 4-H Training Center. It takes a great deal of money to maintain the Center and to pay for the heat and lights. A few hours of your time and your effort to get sponsors for the event are needed to make our event a success. Think about all of the activities that go on at the Training Centermeetings, training classes, school field days, the dog obedience classes, horse shows, shooting sports, hunter education, the Unlimited Garden Program, the Town of Milton Fishing Derby, and other special events. Where would all of these things happen without this one of a kind facility?
In 2014 we raised over $8,000. The goal for 2015 is to raise $10,000! That can only happen if you participate. The top 10 youth walkers with the highest amounts of money pledged and collected (over $100) are eligible for various awards and prizes at Achievement Night. At our 2014 Achievement night we presented 4-H keepsake boxes to all in the top ten. Those winners were Claire Felton, Alex Singer, Abigail Jordan, Mackenzie Macey, Kennedy Taylor, Kohlby Himelrick, Hanna LaPointe, Lilly-Anne Trainor, Amanda Tracey, and Emma Maloney. Alex, Claire and Anna also received cash awards for collecting the most money in their age groups. The first committee meeting for the 2015 Walkathon is scheduled for January 28th at 6:30 pm at the CCE Office. All former committee members and anyone wishing to come on board are welcome to attend. Call Greg at the 4-H office with any questions that you may have about serving on the committee or with any questions regarding the Walkathon. 4
4-H’ers Compete At National Level This year two 4-H’ers, Molly Alger and Stephanie McBath, earned national recognition in animal-related competition. Molly and Stephanie, who is this year’s Saratoga County Dairy Princess, were selected to compete based on their level of skill and performance at the county, regional, and state level events. The girls participated and competed in Horse Communications and Dairy Judging at the national levels, respectively. Molly placed fourth in individual presentations in Horse Communications at the North American International Livestock Expo in Louisville, Ky. Molly states that “Being able to present my topic at the highest 4-H level was both a challenging and extremely rewarding adventure.” Molly gave an oral presentation titled “Team Roping — The Breakdown”. Stephanie’s Dairy Judging team took sixth place honors among 27 states at the World Dairy Expo in Wisconsin. Stephanie stated that “My trip to Wisconsin was very eye opening to me. I was able see Dairy Judging on a national scale and compete against others who have participated for years. I also got a glimpse into the collegiate environment in the contest which was a unique experience in itself. Our team was honored to represent New York State.” Congratulations to both Molly and Stephanie, two extremely hard-working and deserving individuals. 9
Highlights
January 2015
4-H Youth Project Day Youth Project Days are starting! These fun and interactive days will be held once monthly with the goal of our youth learning new projects. Thursday, February 19, 2015 9:00 am - noon CCE Auditorium 50 West High Street Ballston Spa, NY 12020
Project Day Schedule 9:00 am 9:15am - 10:20 am 10:20 am – 10:30 am 10:30 am - 11:30 am 11:30 am – 12:00pm
Registration Workshop start Snack Break Workshop continued Finish up, Clean up, group pictures
Highlights
January 2015
Agriculture Do you have a flower, vegetable, or herb garden, or just love working with
4-H indoor plants? Would you like to experience learning more about these Horticulture plants and their surroundings with the company of others with similar Training Interest while having fun? If so, please join us for our Horticulture Training sessions!
Participation in this training allows you the opportunity to participate in the Horticulture Judging Contest at County Fair and could, perhaps, place you on a county team to represent Saratoga County at the NYS Fair, with an opportunity (if you meet the qualifications) to go on to national competition. If you are between the ages of 8 and 19 and desire to learn more about plants -- their identification, culture and care requirements, as well as how to judge plant materials, please plan to attend our monthly training sessions. We meet at the Cornell Cooperative Extension Office, 50 West High Street in Ballston Spa. Up-Coming Dates for 2015:
Registration and payment due on Friday, Feb. 13, 2015. Workshop - Animal Chef Ages 8 and above...Cost $5 per youth Whether you are human or animal you need to eat! Come learn about what your animal likes to eat and what nutrients are important for them. Join us for fun, knowledge, healthy snacks, and make animal treats to bring home!
4-H February Break Project Day Registration Form—February 19, 2015 Name:_____________________________________________________ Age: _________________ Address: ___________________________________________________ Zip: __________________ Club: _______________________________________ Phone: ________________________ Circle Workshop Choice:
Dog
Horse
Rabbit
Enclose check payable to CCE of Saratoga Co - 4-H February Break Project Day in the amount of $ and mail to: Cornell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County 50 West High Street Balltson Spa, NY 12020 Registration must be received by Friday, February 13, 2015 8
Feb. 9
March 9
So mark your calendar today and plan to join us from 6:30 to 8:00 pm on February 9th. Hope to see you there! If you have any questions, please give Sue Beebe a call at (518) 885-8995.
County Horse Bowl 2015
Horse Presentations for 2015
Horse Bowl practices are taking place every Tuesday at the Cooperative Extension Office for all members enrolled in the 4-H Horse Program who wish to participate. It’s not too late to join. Anyone interested in participating is encouraged to come and get involved. To be on the county team, youth must compete in the County Horse Bowl, which is scheduled for Tuesday, February 10 at 6:00 pm at the 4-H Office. Regional Horse Bowl is scheduled for March 21st.. Call Carter at the 4-H Office for more information.
Have you been preparing for horse presentations? Have you decided on a topic? Well, its time to start thinking about it. Horse Presentations will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2015 at the 4-H Training Center. Presentations will be held from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. 4-H’ers who are 13 and under are considered Juniors. Participants who are 14-18 years old are considered Seniors. (Age as of January 1, 2015) To be considered for Regional Horse Presentations, participants MUST be judged on March 7th. Do you have questions about presentations? Please come to our training on Monday, January 20, 2015 at 6:30 pm at the Saratoga County Cooperative Extension Office. There is a separate room for horse presenters, as the rules are different than for general presentations. 5
Highlights
January 2015
Highlights
Community Service
January 2015
NEW 4-H Leaders
Teen Update
Gingerbread Project Gingerbread Houses in 2014 were incredible! In addition to a record number of houses, there were four locations displaying the houses. The houses were on display in Saratoga Springs at the Festival of Trees, in the Public Library, at the Arts Council, and in the CCE Building in Ballston Spa. Hundreds of people viewed them during the Victorian Streetwalk, and daily visits to all locations. The clubs that participated in the project were: Bucks & Does, Charlton 4-Leaf Clovers, Dairy Club, Discovery Club, Domestic Rabbits, Eclectic Clovers, Galway Growers, the Nature 4-H’ers & Birch Tree Bunch, Hillview Rangers, Ponies & Horses, Porter Corners Melody Workers, Quaker Springs Country Kids, Rearin’ To Go, Saratoga Sentinels, Sharp & Spicy, Spa City Treckers, The Baker’s Dozen, and The Horses. The houses were again donated to local organizations making this truly a 4-H community service project. Congratulations to all who created a house.
Teen Council Upcoming Events WHO: WHAT: WHEN: WHERE:
Teen Council Officers Teen Council Officers Meeting Wednesday, Jan. 7th at 7pm Cooperative Extension Office
WHO: WHAT: WHEN: WHERE:
All 4-H’ers 13 and older Teen Council Meeting Sat., Jan. 10, 2015, 7-10pm 4-H Training Center
4-H’s for Leaders As a leader (organizational, project, or activity) you are an essential element in the successful 4-H experience of every member. Also, it is important that you the leader have a successful experience. To ensure everyone has a great experience 4-H for Leaders has been created.
4-H for Leaders is a unique combination of a new and an established forum for all leaders. The first portion of the meeting will focus on a specific topic or process followed by the business of the Leaders’ Association. There will be information sharing, discussion, how to’s, and hands on activities for all leaders. Don’t be left out or miss out on making things happen in your club be an active participant at 4-H for Leaders.
At the December Teen Council meeting we had our annual Christmas party, and were able to participate in a great community service project. This was a community project through Echo Food Pantry which is housed within St. Paul's Roman Catholic Church in Rock City Falls. Echo stands for ecumenical community helping others and is made up of a group of local churches in the area and fire companies. Teens packed meals for over 50 families in need this holiday season. We also provided financial support for the turkeys that will complete the boxes. What a great night!
Here is 4-H for Leaders in 2015 January 12
2015 New York State 4-H Foundation 4-H Scholarship Program
Natural Resources 4-H Shooting Sports Spring Program The spring 4-H shooting sports class will begin on Tuesday, March 3rd, 2015 and run until April 28th, from 7:00-9:00pm This 9-week class will offer participants first hand experience in archery, air rifle, small bore rifle, muzzle loading rifle, and shotgun. Home firearm safety and survival will also be taught. A presentation by an Environmental Conservation Officer and a class about turkey hunting will be covered. This class fulfills the requirements for Hunter Education Certification. This class is open to individuals age 12 and older. The cost of the class is $25 for youth participants and includes a hat and covers all materials; the cost is $20 for adults attending with a youth; with a limit of $60 per family. Registration is now open, and seats are filling up fast, so call the Cornell Cooperative Extension office at (518) 885-8995 today to register!
6
The New York State 4-H Foundation has announced the 2015 scholarship program for 4-H member in New York State. The scholarships are provided by the NYS 4-H Foundation and others to acknowledge your accomplishments in 4-H and support your future educational goals.
Making the club work, Leadership for youth and adults
March 9
Heart
Record keeping, recognition, awards
May 11
Hands
Countywide programs, community service
September 21 Health November 30
4-H projects 4-H Photography Show
The meetings will be held at the 4-H Office and begin at 7:00 pm.
Each eligible 4-H member in Saratoga County will receive a letter encouraging you to submit an application. The letter will also contain all the information needed to complete and submit the application. If you have not received your letter by the time you read this article please call the 4-H Office ASAP. Applicants must be eligible for 4-H enrollment. Youth who have reached their nineteenth birthday before January 1, 2015 are not eligible to apply.
Head
7
NON PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID Ballston Spa, NY 12020 Permit #19
Address Service Requested
Public Presentation Day 2015 is Saturday, March 7
Phone: 885-8995 Fax: 885-9078 1-800-443-0107 ext. 2230 www.ccesaratoga.org [email protected] * The 4-H emblem is protected under 18 U.S.C. 707
January 2015
It’s time to start thinking about 4-H Public Presentation Day, March 7, 2015. This fun and exhilarating day brings hundreds of local 4-H members together to practice the life skill of public speaking in a comfortable environment. It is open to all members, Cloverbuds and 4-H’ers, ages 5-19. A nationally recognized element of the Cooperative Extension 4-H Youth Program, it is often credited by 4-H alumni as having given them an edge above their peers in high school, college, and beyond. It is a good opportunity for youth to develop poise and self confidence in front of a small group, hone public speaking skills and express ideas clearly and creatively.
4-H Capital Days on page 2
4-H Walkathon on page 4
Continued on page 2 4-H Staff:
Program Committee
Mary Fairley, Extension Issue Leader Julie Curren, Extension Program Educator Carter Older, Extension Community Educator Greg Stevens, Extension Community Educator Marilyn Preissler, 4-H Administrative Assistant Richard Johnson, Printer
Dave Felano Paul Lasky Eileen Lindaman Kim Racaza Pam Hall Eileen Gerdes
Burnt Hills Ballston Spa Clifton Park Clifton Park Stillwater Saratoga Springs
Students Molly Alger Noah Amann
Middle Grove Mechanicville
Upcoming Events & Deadlines
Calling All 4-H’ers
2
Agriculture
5
Natural Resources 5 Community Service 6
13th - 4-H Leaders Association Meeting
4-H Leaders
7
Teen Update
7
20th - Public Presentation Day Training
10th - 4-H Horticulture Training 17th - Cloverbud Day “Cornell Cooperative Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities”
19th– Youth Project Day
12 1
Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ SaratogaCounty4H
Highlights
January 2015 11
19 Martin Luther King Day
12 4-H Leaders Assoc. Mtg.-7:00 pm
20 Horse Bowl Practice7:00pm Public Presentation Day Training - 6:30 pm
13 Horse Bowl Practice 7:00pm
4
18
26
25 27 Horse Bowl Practice 7:00pm
Calling All 4-H’ers Public Presentation Day (continued from page 1)
5
Mon
4-H Teen Ambassadors 6:30
Wed
Happy New Year! 1
9
2
10
3
Thu
8
15
22
29
23
16
31
24 Sewing Sensations 9:30 am
17 Sewing Sensations 9:30 am
Fri
30
Sat
2
Sewing Sensations 9:30 am
Teen Council - 7:00 pm 11
January 2015
Tue
7 Robotics 6:30 pm
7:00 pm
Teen Council Officers
14
21
28 Walkathon Committee Mtg. 6:30 pm
The dates for 2015 Capital Days trip are Sunday, March 1 – Tuesday, March 3, staying overnight at a hotel in Albany. Delegates are ages 14 years+. If you are interested, please send a letter to the 4-H Office by Friday, Jan. 23 with a paragraph or two on why you would like to attend. The expense of the trip is covered by a generous donation from the 4-H Leader’s Association.
6 Horse Bowl Practice 7:00pm
Training for leaders, parents and 4-H’ers, new and experienced, will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 20 at 6:45 pm here at the CCE Office, 50 W High St, in Ballston Spa. Training will cover the types of presentations, age guidelines, how to pick a topic, the 4-H presentation format, tips for posters and PowerPoints, a review of the evaluation guidelines and sheets, with breakout sessions forhorse communications and Cloverbuds. Mark your calendars- the big day this year is Saturday, March 7, 2015
4-H/FCS Program Committee 7:00
March will bring us to the annual Capital Days event held in Albany. This year marks the 80th year for this 4-H experience. Two teens will represent the Saratoga County on this out st anding three -day educational trip. The itinerary includes a tour of the capitol complex, a visit to the assembly and senate chambers, lively discussions on state government, a tour of a state department, and a stop at the Court of Appeals. A highlight of the trip is the chance to meet local legislators at a special breakfast on Tuesday morning. It is not uncommon for Assemblymen Jim Tedisco or Roy McDonald and/or Senators Hugh Farley and Kathy Marchione to stop by for a cup of coffee.
Sun
Capital Days 2015
Highlights
January 2015
4-H Cloverbud Day (ages 5-8)
“Super Scientists” Tuesday February 17, 2015 Cornell Cooperative Extension Office 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa Cost: $3.00, payable at the door 9:45 - 10:00 am
Registration
10:00 - 10:10 am
Group game
10:10 - 10:30 am
Science/ Activity Stations
10:30 - 10:40 am
Break
10:40 - 11:00 am
Continue with stations
11:00 - 11:20 am
Break
11:20 - 11:40 am
Continue with stations
Name __________________________________________________________ Grade___________ Age_________ Food Allergies________________________________________
Is there something we should know about your child to make this an enjoyable experience? ____________________________________________________________________________ Parent signature_________________________________________________ Parent name___________________________________Date_______________ Phone # where parent may be reached during Cloverbud Day___________________
10
SAVE THE DATE! 15th Annual Scholarship Golf Classic May 30, 2015
4-H in 2015….Important Dates to Remember
Cloverbud Registration Form - One form per person
Yes_____
January 2015
Fairway Of Halfmoon Registration 8:00 a.m. Shotgun Start at 9:00a.m.
11:40 am - 12:00 pm 4-H pledge and pictures
Able to help during Cloverbud Day
Highlights
No______
Public Presentation Training County Horse Bowl Cloverbud Day Youth Project Day Public Presentation Day Capital Days March Dog Madness at Cornell University Regional Horse Bowl (Fulton Montgomery) STARR teen trip Horse Communications (regional) Walkathon Animal Crackers at Cornell University Fashion Revue Saratoga Horse Symposium 4-H Golf Classic County Fair Books Available Sundae on the Farm Career Exploration County Fair Judging Day County Fair State Fair (Saratoga County) 3
Jan. 20 Feb. 10 Feb. 17 Feb. 19 March 7 March 1-3 March 21 March 21 April 10-12 April 25 May 2 May 2 May 15 May 16 May 30 June 1 June 21 June 30-July2 July 18 July 21-26 August 26-30
Highlights
January 2015
Highlights
January 2015
Saratoga County 4-H Robotics team heading to NYS Championships Recently the Saratoga County 4-H robotics team, Robovines FTC #6955 was part of the winning alliance at the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) qualifying match held at SUNY Poly in Utica, New York. This is the first time a 4-H club has won this qualifier. With the win the team has secured their place in the NYS Empire Region FIRST Tech Challenge Championship to be held on February 8 at Pace University in New York City.
When: April 10-12, 2015
22 teams and hundreds of students from as far away as New York City competed in this event. Organizers and instructors said the match was a chance for students to show what they have learned, and to qualify for the New York Empire Region FIRST Tech Challenge Championship. Teams consisting of youth ages 14 through 18 had to design a robot from scratch, program the robot to drive itself and design driver controlled applications as well. The Robovines are made up of five teenagers from Saratoga County. They started working on their robot in September when the challenge was announced, and have worked on the robot 5 to 10 hours a week since. In addition to robot building, they also work to promote and grow robotics in Saratoga County. For more information about the Robovines, or the 4-H Robotics program in Saratoga County, please contact the 4-H office at 885-8995.
Is the 2015 Walkathon on Your Schedule? Time is rushing by and plans are already being made for the 2015 4-H Walkathon! The date is May 2 and we will once again hold the event at the Saratoga Spa State Park. The past three years have been terrific, and we are hoping to have another successful event. As always, the purpose of the walk is to raise funds to support our 4-H Training Center. It takes a great deal of money to maintain the Center and to pay for the heat and lights. A few hours of your time and your effort to get sponsors for the event are needed to make our event a success. Think about all of the activities that go on at the Training Centermeetings, training classes, school field days, the dog obedience classes, horse shows, shooting sports, hunter education, the Unlimited Garden Program, the Town of Milton Fishing Derby, and other special events. Where would all of these things happen without this one of a kind facility?
In 2014 we raised over $8,000. The goal for 2015 is to raise $10,000! That can only happen if you participate. The top 10 youth walkers with the highest amounts of money pledged and collected (over $100) are eligible for various awards and prizes at Achievement Night. At our 2014 Achievement night we presented 4-H keepsake boxes to all in the top ten. Those winners were Claire Felton, Alex Singer, Abigail Jordan, Mackenzie Macey, Kennedy Taylor, Kohlby Himelrick, Hanna LaPointe, Lilly-Anne Trainor, Amanda Tracey, and Emma Maloney. Alex, Claire and Anna also received cash awards for collecting the most money in their age groups. The first committee meeting for the 2015 Walkathon is scheduled for January 28th at 6:30 pm at the CCE Office. All former committee members and anyone wishing to come on board are welcome to attend. Call Greg at the 4-H office with any questions that you may have about serving on the committee or with any questions regarding the Walkathon. 4
4-H’ers Compete At National Level This year two 4-H’ers, Molly Alger and Stephanie McBath, earned national recognition in animal-related competition. Molly and Stephanie, who is this year’s Saratoga County Dairy Princess, were selected to compete based on their level of skill and performance at the county, regional, and state level events. The girls participated and competed in Horse Communications and Dairy Judging at the national levels, respectively. Molly placed fourth in individual presentations in Horse Communications at the North American International Livestock Expo in Louisville, Ky. Molly states that “Being able to present my topic at the highest 4-H level was both a challenging and extremely rewarding adventure.” Molly gave an oral presentation titled “Team Roping — The Breakdown”. Stephanie’s Dairy Judging team took sixth place honors among 27 states at the World Dairy Expo in Wisconsin. Stephanie stated that “My trip to Wisconsin was very eye opening to me. I was able see Dairy Judging on a national scale and compete against others who have participated for years. I also got a glimpse into the collegiate environment in the contest which was a unique experience in itself. Our team was honored to represent New York State.” Congratulations to both Molly and Stephanie, two extremely hard-working and deserving individuals. 9
Highlights
January 2015
4-H Youth Project Day Youth Project Days are starting! These fun and interactive days will be held once monthly with the goal of our youth learning new projects. Thursday, February 19, 2015 9:00 am - noon CCE Auditorium 50 West High Street Ballston Spa, NY 12020
Project Day Schedule 9:00 am 9:15am - 10:20 am 10:20 am – 10:30 am 10:30 am - 11:30 am 11:30 am – 12:00pm
Registration Workshop start Snack Break Workshop continued Finish up, Clean up, group pictures
Highlights
January 2015
Agriculture Do you have a flower, vegetable, or herb garden, or just love working with
4-H indoor plants? Would you like to experience learning more about these Horticulture plants and their surroundings with the company of others with similar Training Interest while having fun? If so, please join us for our Horticulture Training sessions!
Participation in this training allows you the opportunity to participate in the Horticulture Judging Contest at County Fair and could, perhaps, place you on a county team to represent Saratoga County at the NYS Fair, with an opportunity (if you meet the qualifications) to go on to national competition. If you are between the ages of 8 and 19 and desire to learn more about plants -- their identification, culture and care requirements, as well as how to judge plant materials, please plan to attend our monthly training sessions. We meet at the Cornell Cooperative Extension Office, 50 West High Street in Ballston Spa. Up-Coming Dates for 2015:
Registration and payment due on Friday, Feb. 13, 2015. Workshop - Animal Chef Ages 8 and above...Cost $5 per youth Whether you are human or animal you need to eat! Come learn about what your animal likes to eat and what nutrients are important for them. Join us for fun, knowledge, healthy snacks, and make animal treats to bring home!
4-H February Break Project Day Registration Form—February 19, 2015 Name:_____________________________________________________ Age: _________________ Address: ___________________________________________________ Zip: __________________ Club: _______________________________________ Phone: ________________________ Circle Workshop Choice:
Dog
Horse
Rabbit
Enclose check payable to CCE of Saratoga Co - 4-H February Break Project Day in the amount of $ and mail to: Cornell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County 50 West High Street Balltson Spa, NY 12020 Registration must be received by Friday, February 13, 2015 8
Feb. 9
March 9
So mark your calendar today and plan to join us from 6:30 to 8:00 pm on February 9th. Hope to see you there! If you have any questions, please give Sue Beebe a call at (518) 885-8995.
County Horse Bowl 2015
Horse Presentations for 2015
Horse Bowl practices are taking place every Tuesday at the Cooperative Extension Office for all members enrolled in the 4-H Horse Program who wish to participate. It’s not too late to join. Anyone interested in participating is encouraged to come and get involved. To be on the county team, youth must compete in the County Horse Bowl, which is scheduled for Tuesday, February 10 at 6:00 pm at the 4-H Office. Regional Horse Bowl is scheduled for March 21st.. Call Carter at the 4-H Office for more information.
Have you been preparing for horse presentations? Have you decided on a topic? Well, its time to start thinking about it. Horse Presentations will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2015 at the 4-H Training Center. Presentations will be held from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. 4-H’ers who are 13 and under are considered Juniors. Participants who are 14-18 years old are considered Seniors. (Age as of January 1, 2015) To be considered for Regional Horse Presentations, participants MUST be judged on March 7th. Do you have questions about presentations? Please come to our training on Monday, January 20, 2015 at 6:30 pm at the Saratoga County Cooperative Extension Office. There is a separate room for horse presenters, as the rules are different than for general presentations. 5
Highlights
January 2015
Highlights
Community Service
January 2015
NEW 4-H Leaders
Teen Update
Gingerbread Project Gingerbread Houses in 2014 were incredible! In addition to a record number of houses, there were four locations displaying the houses. The houses were on display in Saratoga Springs at the Festival of Trees, in the Public Library, at the Arts Council, and in the CCE Building in Ballston Spa. Hundreds of people viewed them during the Victorian Streetwalk, and daily visits to all locations. The clubs that participated in the project were: Bucks & Does, Charlton 4-Leaf Clovers, Dairy Club, Discovery Club, Domestic Rabbits, Eclectic Clovers, Galway Growers, the Nature 4-H’ers & Birch Tree Bunch, Hillview Rangers, Ponies & Horses, Porter Corners Melody Workers, Quaker Springs Country Kids, Rearin’ To Go, Saratoga Sentinels, Sharp & Spicy, Spa City Treckers, The Baker’s Dozen, and The Horses. The houses were again donated to local organizations making this truly a 4-H community service project. Congratulations to all who created a house.
Teen Council Upcoming Events WHO: WHAT: WHEN: WHERE:
Teen Council Officers Teen Council Officers Meeting Wednesday, Jan. 7th at 7pm Cooperative Extension Office
WHO: WHAT: WHEN: WHERE:
All 4-H’ers 13 and older Teen Council Meeting Sat., Jan. 10, 2015, 7-10pm 4-H Training Center
4-H’s for Leaders As a leader (organizational, project, or activity) you are an essential element in the successful 4-H experience of every member. Also, it is important that you the leader have a successful experience. To ensure everyone has a great experience 4-H for Leaders has been created.
4-H for Leaders is a unique combination of a new and an established forum for all leaders. The first portion of the meeting will focus on a specific topic or process followed by the business of the Leaders’ Association. There will be information sharing, discussion, how to’s, and hands on activities for all leaders. Don’t be left out or miss out on making things happen in your club be an active participant at 4-H for Leaders.
At the December Teen Council meeting we had our annual Christmas party, and were able to participate in a great community service project. This was a community project through Echo Food Pantry which is housed within St. Paul's Roman Catholic Church in Rock City Falls. Echo stands for ecumenical community helping others and is made up of a group of local churches in the area and fire companies. Teens packed meals for over 50 families in need this holiday season. We also provided financial support for the turkeys that will complete the boxes. What a great night!
Here is 4-H for Leaders in 2015 January 12
2015 New York State 4-H Foundation 4-H Scholarship Program
Natural Resources 4-H Shooting Sports Spring Program The spring 4-H shooting sports class will begin on Tuesday, March 3rd, 2015 and run until April 28th, from 7:00-9:00pm This 9-week class will offer participants first hand experience in archery, air rifle, small bore rifle, muzzle loading rifle, and shotgun. Home firearm safety and survival will also be taught. A presentation by an Environmental Conservation Officer and a class about turkey hunting will be covered. This class fulfills the requirements for Hunter Education Certification. This class is open to individuals age 12 and older. The cost of the class is $25 for youth participants and includes a hat and covers all materials; the cost is $20 for adults attending with a youth; with a limit of $60 per family. Registration is now open, and seats are filling up fast, so call the Cornell Cooperative Extension office at (518) 885-8995 today to register!
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The New York State 4-H Foundation has announced the 2015 scholarship program for 4-H member in New York State. The scholarships are provided by the NYS 4-H Foundation and others to acknowledge your accomplishments in 4-H and support your future educational goals.
Making the club work, Leadership for youth and adults
March 9
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Record keeping, recognition, awards
May 11
Hands
Countywide programs, community service
September 21 Health November 30
4-H projects 4-H Photography Show
The meetings will be held at the 4-H Office and begin at 7:00 pm.
Each eligible 4-H member in Saratoga County will receive a letter encouraging you to submit an application. The letter will also contain all the information needed to complete and submit the application. If you have not received your letter by the time you read this article please call the 4-H Office ASAP. Applicants must be eligible for 4-H enrollment. Youth who have reached their nineteenth birthday before January 1, 2015 are not eligible to apply.
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