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2019 Omaha Fashion WeekCongratulations to Amber Gonzalez of McCook for being chosen as one of Nebraska’s most talented student designers!!

Market Beef Weigh-In & TaggingMarket beef weigh-in will be held Sunday, March 3 from 2:00-4:00pm at Tri-State Livestock. Animals must be weighed in on this day to participate in the Rate of Gain contest. All market beef will be tagged with a required EID tag. Breeding heifers may be brought at this time also to be tattooed. All breeding heifers are required to have a tattoo to be shown at County and State Fair.

4-H CarnivalThe 4-H Carnival will be held on Sunday, March 10th, from 4:00-6:00 pm in the Alice Building. Each club is asked sponsor 2 games and provide 3 cakes to use for the cake walk.

Senior ScholarshipScholarship applications and eligibility requirements were mailed out to all seniors. Completed applications are due back to the Extension Office by March 22nd, 2019. Please call the Extension office with any questions.

2019 Speech/PSA and Presentation Contest

4-H Signal

Red Willow County 1400 W 5th St., McCook, NE 69001

308-345-3390 or 877-674-6947 Fax: 308-345-3391

Email: red-willow-county@unl.edu redwillow.unl.edu or 4h.unl.edu

OctoDecemberber 20

Market Beef Weigh-In, Sunday, March 32:00-4:00pm

4-H Carnival, Sunday, March 104:00-6:00pm

The Red Willow County Speech/PSA and Presentations Contest will be held on Monday, April 1st, at 6:00 pm in the McCook Community Building. All of the guidelines and the entry form can be found on our website under the ‘Red Willow County 4-H’ tab. Entry forms are due to the Extension Office by Monday, March 25th.

Tractor Safety CourseThis summer, the Nebraska Extension is offering a tractor safety course in June. All youth aged 14 and 15 who work on a farm or ranch other than their own must be certified through a Hazardous Occupations Course. The course is priced at $60 and will offer an online course to replace the first day of the two-day course. Students will need to complete this at their convenience, before attending the on-site driving component of the course. Successful completion the course will allow trained youth to operate a tractor over 20 horsepower, or to connect or disconnect an implement or any of its parts to or from a tractor. The course will be held on Wednesday, June 5th, at the fairgrounds in McCook. Information pertaining to this course will be sent out to McCook and surrounding schools. You may also stop into the Extension office to pick up the information and register.

2019 4-H Member EnrollmentThe 2019 4-H Enrollment period has officially begun. We will once again be using the 4HOnline web based system to collect 4-H enrollments. Please go to ne.4honline.com to complete the process between now and June 1. If you were enrolled last year, simply follow the Returning 4-H Member instructions you will see on the home page. Once you are in your family profile, click on Edit next to each child’s name, go through each page updating the information as necessary and adding the projects they want to enroll in. Do this until you reach Submit Enrollment. You are not enrolled until you click on Submit Enrollment. If you were not enrolled last year, go to ne.4honline.com and follow the new 4-H Member instructions. New enrollments must also complete all required information including projects for fair and click SubmitEnrollment. The Health Form information is optional and does not have to be completed in order to enroll. Please call the Extension Office with any questions.

2019 4-H Volunteer Enrollment Club and project volunteer leaders will be enrolling online using the 4HOnline computer system just like our 4-H members. All the necessary information including the 4-H Volunteer Code of Conduct and screening forms are included in the enrollment process. If you are a club or project leader, please go to ne.4honline.com to enroll between now and June 1. If you were enrolled as a club or project volunteer last year or if you had children enrolled in 4-H last year, you have a 4HOnline profile and should follow the Returning 4-H Member instructions. If not, please follow the new 4-H Member instructions. If you have any questions, please call the Extension Office.

2019 Red Willow County FairThe fair will be held July 23-28, 2019

CWF The next CWF meeting will be held on Sunday, April 7 at 3:00 p.m. central time-zone at the Hayes Center fairgrounds.

CWF Fundraising Sarah Uerling is organizing a potato/dessert bar for the food booth during the 4-H Carnival on March 10. All positions have been filled at this time.

2019 Pick Your Project Now AvailableThe searchable Pick Your Project and the 2 page Nebraska 4-H Project Listing have been updated for the 2019 program year. Both of these resources can be accessed at https://4h.unl.edu/resources. Using the web-based 2019 Pick Your Project, users will be able to search for projects by keywords, curriculum areas, knowledge levels, and geographic levels. It is the intent that this feature will assist with learning about the project opportunities using the Pick Your Project and then easily locating the same project in 4HOnline.

4-H Achievement CelebrationSunday, November 1, 2015

6:00 p.m. 4-H Building

please bring a salad or dessert to

2016 4-H Member Enrollment ClosedThe 2016 Red Willow County 4-H enrollment period has officially ended. The website has been closed to new enrollments and project changes. You will be allowed to continue to update personal information on your profile. All enrolled participants will receive fair pre-entry forms in June that will be due to be returned to the Extension Office by July 1.

County Fair Thank You Another County Fair is in the books! Congratulations to all 4-H members on your hard work and dedication! Thank you for your cooperation and help during the fair events.

Cornhusker Jr/Sr High School TrapshootThe 47th annual Cornhusker National Jr/Sr High School Trap Shoot was held in Doniphan, NE on April 28-30. Sixteen Red Willow County 4-H’ers competed in the three day event. Brandan Eckhardt, Tucker Gillespie, Brooke Stewart and Cole Thomas participated in the junior high competition. William Bennett, Ben Bradley, Trace Doyle, Andersen Gillespie, Joel Gray, Kade Gray, Abby Johnson, Bryson Kool, Cameron Lashley, Dillon Sayer, Thatcher Skolout and Brandan Smith competed in the high school competition. Thank you to Tom Smith for organizing this experience for these kids!

County Fair ItemsIf you have not yet picked up your fair exhibits, ribbons, and/or results, they can be picked up at the Extension Office. County Fair Lost & FoundThere are a few items that were left at the county fair. They include a broom, bucket, a livestock brush, swine show stick, and sunglasses.

Restaurant Fundraisers – As chairperson, Teresa Thomas has arranged for the following McCook restaurants to host fundraiser nights: Pizza Hut - May 16, Wendy’s - June 20 and McDonald’s - July 8. Each will run from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Participants will work a 1 hour shift greeting and thanking customers, opening the doors and cleaning tables with the exception of McDonald’s. There participants will work alongside McDonald’s employees. You may call the Extension Office to sign up for shifts and pick up fliers to distribute to promote the events.

Upcycled Seats – Loretta Hauxwell and Tamra Neel are once again organizing the Washington DC or Bust…Help us Buy our Seat on the Bus! Fundraiser. Participants are asked to upcycle a chair, stool, bench, log or other seat project to be put up for silent auction during the Red Willow County Fair. Please contact Loretta or Tamra with your ideas.Manuals & CD’s

If you checked out any project manuals or CD’s from the Extension Office to use to get ready for fair, please return those as soon as possible.

CWF Fundraiser Old Settlers Food Booth – Tina Kircher and Joy Williams have organized a food booth for Old Settlers Day on Saturday, August 13. There will be three, 1 hour shifts available to work: 11:00 a.m. – noon, noon – 1:00 p.m., and 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Please call the Extension Office to sign up for a shift. They also ask that each participant donate 2lbs of hamburger or $10.00, which will need to be brought to the Extension Office by Thursday, August 11.Premier Jewelry – Mariah Knight is chairing a Premier Designs Jewelry sales fundraiser. Sales will run from May 9 – June 4. It will end with an open house at the Horse Creek Inn on Saturday, June 4 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Sales packets will be available to be picked up at the Extension Office on Monday, May 9.

4-H Achievement CelebrationSunday, November 1, 2015

6:00 p.m. 4-H Building

please bring a salad or dessert to

50/50 Drawings - If anyone would like to be a chairperson for 50/50 drawing fundraisers during county fair events this year, please contact the Extension Office.

Tractor Supply 4-H FundraiserThank you to all 4-H members and clubs who volunteered and spent time at The Tractor Supply store during their Paper Clover promotion! A portion of the donations made during that time will be returned to the Red Willow County 4-H program.

BB Gun, Air Rifle & Air Pistol PracticesPractice sessions will be held from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. in the 4-H Building on the following Mondays: May 23, June 6, June 13, June 20 and June 27. Parents are encouraged to attend with your 4-H member. Youth MUST attend a practice to be eligible to compete at the County Fair contest.

Small Bore Rifle & Pistol Silhouette PracticesPractice sessions will be held from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the City Firing Range north of the McCook Gun Club on the following Tuesdays: June 7, June 14, June 21 and June 28. Parents are encouraged to attend with your 4-H member. Youth MUST attend a practice to be eligible to compete at the County Fair contest.

W-9’sAll Premium Showcase participants who received $600 or more will be reported per the IRS requirements.  Because of this, the Extension Office must have a current W-9 form on file for all of those participants.  If we do not have a W-9 for a participant, it was mailed to them with instructions to complete and return it to the Extension Office.  If you have not returned those, please do so as soon as possible.  Premium Showcase, Rate of Gain and Swine Carcass Contest checks will not be released to participants until their W-9 form is received.

Leadership OpportunityDonna is looking for teenaged youth to gain some leadership opportunities by teaching a workshop at the Clover Kids Day Camp that will be held on June 13 at the Community Building from 1:00 to 4:00 pm.  The camp theme for this year focuses on the food groups and where that food comes from.  Teenaged youth must to be 12 and older to team teach a workshop at the camp.  If you are interested in teaching, please contact Donna at the Extension Office. Tractor Safety CourseA tractor safety training will be held at the Fairgrounds in McCook on May 26 - 27. Any youth 14 or 15 years of age who works on a farm or ranch other than his/her parents’ is required to be certified through this course. Cost for the course is $60, which includes all course materials, lunch both days and breaks. Registration is due to the Extension Office by Thursday, May 19. If 10 people are not registered by May 19, the class will not be held. Contact the Extension Office with questions.2016 4-H Member Enrollment The 2016 4-H Enrollment period has officially begun. We will once again be using the 4HOnline web based system to collect 4-H enrollments. Please go to ne.4honline.com to complete the process between now and May 1st . If you were enrolled last year, simply follow the Returning 4-H Member instructions you will see on the Home Page. Once you are in your family profile, click on Edit next to each child’s name, go through each page updating the information as necessary, including the projects they want to take to fair. Do this until you reach Submit Enrollment. You are NOT enrolled until you click Submit Enrollment. If you were not enrolled last year, go to ne.4honline.com and follow the New 4-H Member instructions. New enrollments must also complete all required information including projects for fair and click Submit Enrollment. The Health Form information is optional and does not have to be completed in order to enroll. Please call the Extension Office with any questions.

2016 4-H Volunteer EnrollmentThis year our club and project volunteer leaders will be enrolling online using the 4HOnline computer system just like our 4-H members. 4HOnline is a web based system that will allow our volunteers to enroll on their personal computer or mobile device. They will be able to complete all the necessary information including the 4-H Volunteer Code of Conduct and screening forms. If you are a club or project leader, please go to ne.4honline.com to enroll between now and May 1st . If you were enrolled as a club or project leader last year or if you had children enrolled in 4-H last year, you have a 4HOnline profile and should follow the Returning

4-H Member instructions. If not, please follow the New 4-H Member instructions. If you do not know your password, select “I forgot my password” and a new one will be emailed to you. If you have any questions, please call the Extension Office.Experience Sprint Startup This workshop will be held at Mid-Plains Community College in McCook on Thursday, May 26th through Saturday, May 28th . This is a 48 hour workshop for 17 & 18 year old, motivated & determined students, to launch a business. They will learn business startup skills in a “Hands-on” environment with entrepreneurs their own age. Students will learn ideation, team formation, customer discovery, rapid prototyping and how to pitch their business concept. For more information, contact Ben Dutton, Nebraska Extension Educator at 308-345-3390 or email him at ben.dutton@unl.edu.

5 k Fun Run/Walk The Dirty Hands 4-H club will be sponsoring a 5k Fun Run/Walk on Saturday, June 4 during Bartley Days. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. with the run starting at 8:00 a.m. at the Community Building in Bartley. Entry fees are $10 for ages 11 and over, $5 for ages 5-10 years and age 4 and under are free. All proceeds will be donated to the Tehama Western Shrine Club Transportation Fund. They are the local chapter located in McCook and help kids from Red Willow, Frontier, Hayes, Hitchcock, Dundy and Chase counties with transportation to and from doctor appointments. For more information, please contact Mary Hammond at 308-367-6775.

Bit N Spur 4-H Horse ShowThe Bit N Spur 4-H club is once again holding their 4-H horse show on Saturday, June 11 at the Kiplinger Arena in McCook. Registration starts at 8:00 a.m. with show time at 8:30 a.m. Registration forms are available at the Extension Office and from Jo Teter. For more information please contact Jo at 308-364-2601.

Ak-Sar-Ben Pre Entries 4-H members who plan to show at Ak-Sar-Ben must have their entry forms to the Extension Office by August 8. Forms are available online at aksarbenrodeo.com or at the Extension Office.

State Fair ExhibitsIf you had an exhibit selected for the Nebraska State Fair, please notify the Extension Office as soon as possible if you plan to send your exhibit(s) if you haven’t already. Non-perishable exhibits are due to the Extension Office before 4:00 p.m. on Friday, August 19. Horticulture exhibitors must notify the Extension Office by noon on Monday, August 22 with what vegetables or flowers they are planning to exhibit along with the cultivar/variety name. Perishable exhibits such as vegetables, flowers, and baked goods may be brought to the Extension Office between 7:00 – 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 24. Exhibits, ribbons, and score sheets may be picked up after the State Fair at the Extension Office on Thursday, September 8.

In Person 4-H State Fair Entries All State Fair livestock entries (beef, sheep, swine, goats, rabbits, dog, companion animal, dairy, Premier Exhibitor, and Dog Skillathon contests) and all non-livestock contest entries, (fashion shows, contests, and presentations) must be made by the individual exhibitors through the ShoWorks online entry site. Follow this link for instructions and registration http://www.statefair.org/p/getinvolved/4h-ffa . All entries must be entered no later than 5:00 p.m. central time on Wednesday, August 10 . A credit or debit card is required to submit entries. Discount exhibitor passes, parking passes, blocking chute permits and State Fair exhibitor badges are ordered at the same time. Everything you order will be in your packets that you will pick up at the Livestock Trailer at check in.

State Fair Fashion ShowIn addition to entering online through the ShoWorks entry site by Wedne sday, August 10, contestants for both the constructed garment and Shopping in Style fashion shows must return their additional documentation forms to the Extension Office by Wednesday, August 3.

State Fair Tickets

Discount exhibitor tickets are again being offered to 4-H families attending the State Fair. The cost of the tickets is $5.00 each. These tickets must be ordered through the Extension Office by Friday, August 5. Outside gate admission will be $12.00, with $5.00 days on Monday, August 29 and Wednesday, August 31. Tuesday, August 30 will be $2.00 gate admission and Thursday, September 1 will be $3.00 gate admission. Children 6 to 12 will be $3.00 every day and children 5 and under will be free every day. Livestock, dog, and companion animal exhibitor families should order these tickets when you enter your State Fair entries online.

I If you cannot attend on this date, the same class will be offered in the following places: April 26 – Hayes Center Fairgrounds, 6:30 p.m. April 28 – Benkelman Fairgrounds, 6:00 p.m. MT May 24 – Culbertson Fairgrounds, 6:30 p.m.

Premium Showcase, Rate of Gain, and Swine Carcass Contest checks willere be mailed on or before August 2931. Please cash or deposit them promptly.

Kid Fun WorkshopsThe after school workshops have begun. Registrations are still being taken. Upcoming workshops are as follows:March 13 – Power of Wind, 2:00-5:30pm, 4-H Building Meeting RoomApril 10 – Wooden Door Mat, 2:00-5:30pm, 4-H Building Meeting Room (FULL)May 1 – Code Your World, 2:00-5:30pm, Extension Office Meeting Room

Sewing WorkshopsSewing workshops will begin in January. Registrations are being taken and the form for March and April is enclosed.Upcoming Workshops are as follows:March – Jelly Roll Rug, 4:00-6:00 pm or 6:30-8:30 pm in the 4-H RoomApril – Warmth of HospiceJune – Quilt of Valor

4-H CouncilThe next scheduled meeting for the 4-H Council will be held on Tuesday, May 24August 23March 7626, at 7:00pm at the Extension Office.

McCook Community CollegeStudents from MPCC campus in McCook have spent the fall semester learning about Senator Nelson and they have prepared an interactive tour of his house! They would like to invite any organizations to tour the house.All tours are set up by request, if you would like to set one up please contact:muehlenkampb@mpcc.edu or call 308-535-3731.

4-H CampsInformation about the 2019 4-H Summer Camps and Trips as well as the Big Red Academic Camps is available online at https://4h.unl.edu/camps. A single page 4-H Camps and Trips information sheet will be distributed through the schools. Registrations are completed at the same website. The early bird discount of 10% off the total camp cost will automatically be applied on all registrations made by April 15. This is the last year the early bird discount is going to be offered.

Feed the FlockThe organizers of the Feed the Flock McCook Community Supper are searching for people to provide food for the suppers and to serve. The suppers are held Thursdays 5:30-6:00pm at the United Methodist Church at 105 East E Street in

McCook. To volunteer to help with the suppers please call Bonnie Brown at 308-340-2112 or Marge Daniel at 308-340-0705.

2019 Photography ThemesUnit II Theme Print – Beautiful Nebraska:  Nebraska’s state song, Beautiful Nebraska, talks of peaceful prairieland, rivers, hills of sand, dark green valleys, and rainbows reaching to the ground.  However, beauty is in the eye of the beholder and everyone has their own idea of what makes Nebraska great.  Entries in the theme print class should capture and share what the exhibitor finds beautiful in or about Nebraska.  Exhibitors should explain how their photo fits the Beautiful Nebraska theme when answering question #1 of the Data Tag.

Unit III Theme Print – N150:  February 15, 2019 marked 150 years since the day the state of Nebraska chartered the University of Nebraska.  That’s 150 years of history to appreciate, impact to unpack and stories to tell.  Much has happened since 1869, all for the purpose of changing lives, advancing knowledge and fulfilling dreams.  How has the University of Nebraska impacted you, your family or you community?  How can you tell this story through photography?  Exhibitors should explain how their photo fits the N150 theme when answering question #1 of the Data Tag.

Special Garden ProjectThe Special Garden Project is a way to offer 4-H members the chance to grow unusual and fun projects in your gardens. This year the Special Garden Project is focused on the unique Carmine Splendor Okra. Carmine Splendor Okra is as unique as it is tasty. This plant is high yielding and produces uniform, red pods. The stout 5-pointed pods are deep red when small and at the best eating quality. The tropical-looking, pinkish flowers are also edible and have a sweet, mild flavor. The mature seed pods also give a fun twist for winter interest in a container. Youth should enroll for the Special Garden Project through 4-H Online. Once enrolled through 4-H Online, please call the Extension Office to let us know you are enrolled in the project so we can ensure you receive the seeds. By enrolling through 4-H Online, you will have access to the box folder with the educational materials including the growing newsletter & evaluation.

2019 District Horse ShowsThe 2019 District 4-H Horse Shows have been finalized. The following are the 2019 district dates and sites:Monday, June 10, 2019 - BloomfieldTuesday, June 11, 2019 - ElkhornWednesday, June 12, 2019 - OrdThursday, June 13, 2019 - OgallalaFriday, June 14, 2019 – McCook

4-H Livestock Exhibition at the State FairA step by step instruction guide is available at the following link: https://4h.unl.edu/state-fair/live-animal-exhibitor

4-H Horse ProgramThe Horse Advisory Group has approved several changes for the 2019 4-H horse program. The following changes can be viewed at the following link: https://youtu.be/tI07z1f4BMw

Calling All Do’ers! National 4-H Council is looking for 4-H youth of all ages who have ideas (original or adapted from other sources) for fun, educational and/or service-oriented hands-on activities to be featured in Council’s brand campaign later this fall. For example, do you have a step-by-step guide for growing a bean in a bottle to teach kids about agriculture? Or instructions for organizing a trash pickup day in your community? Or a favorite healthy recipe you make for friends and family? They’d love to hear them and have the opportunity to feature the great ideas, kids and 4-H clubs bringing them to life. Submit your ideas at https://4-h.org/30-days-of-doing-activity-submission/?utm_campaign=&utm_sourcenewsandnotes&utm_medium=email&4HCC=-20180710-newsandnotes-email---20180710- today!

4S Goat Expo Oct. 13-14 in North Platte Deadline for sale entries and pictures of goats selling are due postmarked by September 15 th ! Below is the information.The Expo will feature: Genetic Management Selection Criteria for a Breeding Goat Herd Health Genetic Selection for Seed Stock Custom Grazing Goats for Profit Management Suggestions from Experienced Goat Producers Goat Judging Contest(Youth)Featured Speakers:

Richard Browning, Professor Goat Genetics, Tennessee State University, Nashville TN Doug Smith, Division Chair Animal Science/Ag Education, Judging Coach, NCTQA, Curtis NE

Goat check-in is 3 – 9 p.m. Oct. 12 and before 8 a.m. on Oct. 13. The expo seminar will start at 10 a.m.  The Oct. 14 show will start at 8 a.m. with a sale-goat only show followed by a show-goat only show.  The sale will start at 1 p.m.  For more information, visit http://www.4sgoatexpo.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/4S-Goat-Expo-673122839426170/?fref=ts. A k-sar-ben Horse Show September 23-24 in Grand Island at Fonner Park/NE State Fair Grounds.

Ak-sar-ben Stock ShowSeptember 28-October 1 in Grand Island at Fonner Park/NE State Fair Grounds.

11TuesdayTuesday Please use this form in place of the online form included with the Career Portfolio.NDA Lifts Poultry BanAs of January 1, 2016, the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) has officially lifted the ban on poultry shows, fairs and exhibitions that was put in place to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic H5N2 Avian Influenza (HP AI) last year. This is very exciting news for many of you and we will all be happy to see the poultry back in the barns this year. 2015 was also a very good educational tool on learning more about biosecurity measures with poultry and other livestock.

2016 4-H Member Enrollment The 2016 4-H Enrollment period has officially begun. We will once again be using the 4HOnline web based system to collect 4-H enrollments. Please go to ne.4honline.com to complete the process between now and May 1st . If you were enrolled last year, simply follow the Returning 4-H Member instructions you will see on the Home Page. Once you are in your family profile, click on Edit next to each child’s name, go through each page updating the information as necessary, including the projects they want to take to fair. Do this until you reach Submit Enrollment. You are NOT enrolled until you click Submit Enrollment. If you were not enrolled last year, go to ne.4honline.com and follow the New 4-H Member instructions. New enrollments must also complete all required information including projects for fair and click Submit Enrollment. The Health Form information is optional and does not have to be completed in order to enroll. Please call the Extension Office with any questions.

2016 4-H Volunteer EnrollmentThis year our club and project volunteer leaders will be enrolling online using the 4HOnline computer system just like our 4-H members. 4HOnline is a web based system that will allow our volunteers to enroll on their personal computer or mobile device. They will be able to complete all the necessary information including the 4-H Volunteer Code of Conduct

and screening forms. If you are a club or project leader, please go to ne.4honline.com to enroll between now and May 1st . If you were enrolled as a club or project leader last year or if you had children enrolled in 4-H last year, you have a 4HOnline profile and should follow the Returning 4-H Member instructions. If not, please follow the New 4-H Member instructions. If you do not know your password, select “I forgot my password” and a new one will be emailed to you. If you have any questions, please call the Extension Office.

Nebraska 4-H Diamond Clover Program4-H members in Nebraska have an exciting opportunity to participate in a non-competitive recognition program called the Nebraska 4-H Diamond Clover Program. This self-paced, six level program recognizes the accomplishments of 4-H members from 8 to 19 years of age. It is not intended to replace the existing county awards program. This is an optional program, however we encourage all of our 4-H’ers, ages 8 and over, to apply. Application forms are available on the 4h.unl.edu website. They are due to the Extension Office with the Career Portfolios by Monday, October 1.

2018 Nebraska Youth Smallbore Silhouette InvitationalThis year’s annual Nebraska Youth Smallbore Silhoette Invitational will be held on Saturday, September 29, 2018, at the Pressey Wildlife Management Area. This is a free competition, open to all youth age 11 years old or older who have successfully completed Hunter Education and who have not yet graduated from high school. Shooters should bring either their Hunter Education card or certificate to show at registration. The range will open for practice at 7:30am, with registration continuing until 9:30am. Matches will begin at 10:00am. Individual and teams are encouraged to enter. Pre-registration will be online this year. The deadline for pre-registering online is noon on Thursday, September 27. Registrations can also be made the day of the event. Pre-registration by noon on Thursday, September 27 is strongly encouraged! The registration links for individuals and teams are below:Individual registration: https://goo.gl/forms/cU2q7ht9egvbR0sm1Team registration: https://goo.gl/forms/sxoRoGEWEEGXgkvR2

2018 Annual Youth Beef LeadershipNational 4-H Volunteer e-ForumThis fall we have a wonderful opportunity to provide training to adult and youth 4-H Volunteers across the state through the National 4-H Volunteer e-Forum series! Three different sessions will be offered on November 2 and December 7, from 6-7:30 p.m. (CT). During each session, virtual presenters will share content; host site facilitators (Extension staff and/or volunteers) will lead on-site, hands-on activities based on instructions provided; and adult and youth volunteers will interact with each other on-site and with volunteers from across the country via chat pods and poll questions. Resources will be provided for volunteers to use with the 4-H members in their clubs. You must notify the Extension Office if you plan to attend one of these workshops. The workshops will not be held if no one has pre-registered.November 2 – “STEM”ming into Animal Science, Growing True Leaders December 7 – Helping 4-H’ers Grow in Life & Work .2017 4-H Youth in Action AwardsThe National 4-H Council is now accepting applications for the 2017 4-H Youth in Action Awards to be presented at the eighth annual Legacy Awards in Washington, D.C. on March 21, 2017. As the highest honor National 4-H Council awards to 4-H youth, the 2017 awards will recognize one remarkable 4-H’er within each pillar area: Agriculture; Citizenship; Healthy Living; and STEM.Each of the four 4-H Youth in Action Awards pillar winners will receive:

Scholarship: $5,000 scholarship for higher education.

Public Recognition: An all-expenses paid trip to Washington, D.C. to be recognized at Council's Legacy Awards on March 21, 2017.

Spokesperson Opportunities: Serve as the National Youth Spokesperson for their recognized pillar area.In addition, one National 4-H Youth in Action Award winner will be selected from the four pillar winners and receive an additional $5,000 scholarship for higher education. All applications must be submitted by 5:00 PM ET on Monday, October 24. To apply, or see qualifications, application rules, and information on past honorees, please http://4-h.org/4-h-legacy-awards/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=blast1&utm_campaign=YIA17#!youth-in-actionNebraska 4-H Diamond Clover Program4-H members in Nebraska have an exciting opportunity to participate in a non-competitive recognition program called the Nebraska 4-H Diamond Clover Program. This self-paced, six level program recognized the accomplishments of 4-H members from 8 to 19 years of age. It is not intended to replace the existing county awards program. This is an optional program, however we encourage all of our 4-H’ers, ages 8 and over, to apply. Application forms are available on the 4h.unl.edu website. They are due to the Extension Office with the Career Portfolios by Monday, October 3.

CWF Meeting The CWF meeting scheduled for Sunday, September 11 has been cancelled. The next meeting will be held on Sunday, November 6 at 3:00 CT at the courthouse in Trenton. The next payment of $1,150 is due by that meeting date.

C WF Fundraiser Kristine Stritt is organizing honey sales to run from October 3 – 21. CWF participants wanting to sell honey must notify the Extension Office by Friday, September 30. Boxes of honey bears will be available for pick up at the Extension Office on Monday, October 3.

CWF ScholarshipThe Red Willow County 4-H Council has made money available to award scholarships to the youth who are participating in the 2017 CWF trip. To apply for a scholarship, submit your 2016 Career Portfolio and a one page essay titled “What the CWF Trip Will Mean to Me” to the Extension office by Friday, October 21. The number and amount of the scholarships will be determined by the number of Red Willow 2017 CWF participants who apply.

2 8 Nebraska 4-H Shooting Sports Leader Certification Workshop A Nebraska 4-H Shooting Sports Leader Certification Workshop will be held October 15-16 at the Custer County Fairgrounds in Broken Bow. The deadline to register for the session is October 5. Volunteers have the opportunity to become certified as an adult (21 years and older) or apprentice (14-20 years old) leader. Four project areas will be offered - rifle, shotgun, muzzleloading, and archery. Muzzleloading certification will be offered on Saturday only and will only be available to current certified instructors who have been certified in another discipline since January 1, 2014. There is a minimum number of participants needed to offer these disciplines at the workshop. Workshop participants will learn under expert instruction from members of the Nebraska State 4-H Shooting Sports Training Team. The registration fee is $100.00 per person for initial certification and $90.00 per person for those who are currently certified instructors and are adding an additional discipline. This fee includes meals, supplies and program materials. Participants must make their own lodging arrangements. Registration on Saturday runs from 8:00 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. For more workshop information and the registration link, go to the 4-H Shooting Sports web page at http://4h.unl.edu/shooting-sports/instructor/calendar, or contact Steve Pritchard at (402)395-2158 or (308)536-2691.Registration is available only online at the link provided in the brochure or you can register directly at - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdUr93tODaG7Kw0DYF9XuAZqfFbkikonHYgQKCqQzrxIJp27Q/viewform.

County Fair MattersIf you have any remarks in regard to county fair please feel free to come into the Extension Office to complete and sign a County Fair Matters Card.

ESI Camp The ESI Camp has been scheduled to be held on June 24 th . More information to follow. Serger Available for Check-OutDonna has purchased a serger through her 4-H programming efforts and is making it available for 4-H members to check out and use on 4-H sewing projects. It may be checked out for one week at a time. The 4-H member and the adult who assists them sew must go through a 30 minute training session with Donna prior to using it. If you would like to use the serger, please call the Extension Office to set up a time to meet with Donna. Extra Wood or Pallets?Charlie Bortner, owner of WFH (watering, feeding, housing) is in need of some wood and/or pallets to make his calf houses. He started his business about four months ago and is running low on supplies. If you have any wood or pallets that you would like to donate you can call Charlie at ( 308 ) -737-7370 or Layten Bor t ner at ( 308 ) -345-2818.

Community Service OpportunityThe hog panels used during the fair are in need of painting. This w ill need to be done by July 1 and the Fair Board will provide the paint and supplies. If there is a 4-H club or individual members interested in taking on this project, please contact Donna at the Extension Office. Recording Community Service Projects Club Leaders and 4-H youth, brag about your community service accomplishments by posting to the 4-H community map at http://4h.u.unl.edu/4hcommunityserviceprojectmapsubmission . Please m ake sure to fill everything completely out , including number of volunteers, total number of hours worked for all volunteers, dollar value of items donated, and a short description of the activity, with as much detail as possible. 2016 Red Willow County FairThis year’s fair will be held July 20 – 24, 2016.

Omaha Fashion Week 4-H CollectionNebraska 4-H is once again partnering with Omaha Fashion Week during their Spring Showcase. The OFW Student Night will take place on Tuesday, March 15, 2016 and will exclusively feature high school designers, including a 4-H collection. This collection will consist of 10 garments from across the state and will be modeled by the 4-H member who made it. Our own Red Willow County 4-H’er, Mackenzie Esch, has been selected to participate. Congratulations Mackenzie!

4-H CampThe 4-H Summer Camp & Trips brochure is available online at http://4h.unl.edu/2_OpenToAllYouth/d_Camp/SummerCamp/2016-4H-Camp-Brochure.pdf . If you are interested in attending a camp this summer and would like to apply for a scholarship from the Red Willow County 4-H Council, the application form is available at the Extension Office and on our website. Applications are due to the Extension Office by

Friday, March 18. Please keep in mind that registrations received on or before April 15, 2016 will receive a 10% early bird discount.

2016 Public Speaking ContestThe Red Willow County Speech & PSA Contests will be held on Tuesday, April 5 th in the 4-H Meeting Room at 6:00 PM. The theme for the 2016 Public Service Announcement is “4-H Grows Confidence” and should be

incorporated into the PSA. Registration is due to the Extension Office by Tuesday, March 29 th .

2016 Special Garden Project WorkshopThe Special Garden Project workshop with our own Master Gardners will be held Tuesday, April 12 th , at 5:00 PM at the Extension Office. This workshop is for youth of all ages. If you would like to attend, please contact the Extension Office by Friday, April 8 th . The Special Garden Project is a way to offer 4-H members the chance to grow unusual and fun projects in their gardens. This year it is focused on the colorful, jazzy Mix Zinnia. This cultivar comes in shades of burgundy-red, red, yellow and orange with cream, red or yellow tips. The 1-2”blooms are fully-double and semi-double. These zinnias are a great cut flower that can get 20-26” tall. On average, it will take about 75-85 days for the plants to bloom.Shooting Pr actices Pr actice sessions for Air BB Gun, Air Rifle & Air Pistol will be held on Monday, April 25 th , 6:00 PM. All practices will be held in the 4-H Building. Chris Schaben and Rob Hinze are the Certified Shooting Sports Leaders that will be conducting the practices. Parents are welcome to attend with your 4-H member. There will be more practices scheduled at a later time. Youth MUST attend a practice before compet ing at the County Fair C ontest s .

CWF Meeting The next meeting scheduled for CWF is March 20 th , 3:00 PM at the Hayes Center Fairgrounds . Please do your best to attend. If you have to miss, contact Extension Office for handouts and details.

4-H CouncilThe next scheduled meeting for the 4-H Council will be held on March 2 2 nd , 7:00 PM at the Extension Office.

Animal Science Youth Field DayWorkshop in Curtis, NE at the NCTA Campus on Thursday, May 26, 2016. This is open to youth ages 8-18. V ariety of workshops will expose youth to various animal care, production, Quality Assurance & other livestock teaching stations .

Experience Sprint Startup This workshop will be held at Mid-Plains Community College in McCook on Thursday, May 26 th through Saturday, May 28 th . This is a 48 hour workshop for 17 & 18 year old, motivated & determined students, to launch a business. They will learn business startup skills in a “Hands-on” environment with entrepreneurs their own age. Students will learn ideation, team formation, customer discovery, rapid prototyping and how to pitch their business concept. For more information, contact Ben Dutton, Nebraska Extension Educator at 308-345-3390 or email him at ben.dutton@unl.edu .

National Western Stock Show Catch-A-Calf Contest Applications for this contest must be postmarked by December 1 st and returned to Erin Post at Colorado State University- Adams County. You may contact Erin with questions at ( 303 ) -637-8109. Applications are available at the Extension Office.

State FairCongratulations to all Red Willow County 4-H members who exhibited at the Nebraska State Fair! It was a very successful fair for many. In addition to the many ribbons and Special Recognitions that were received in the 4-H building, two Red Willow County 4-H’ers received Grand Champion placings. Brendon Hauxwell showed the Grand

Champion Market Beef and Greg Gaston received Grand Champion in Dog Showmanship and Reserve Champion in Level 5 Agility. You should be proud of your accomplishments!

State Fair ExhibitsThere are still some e xhibits that need to be picked up at the Extension Office . Please do so as soon as possible.

Manuals & CD’sIf you checked out project manuals or CD’s from the Extension Office to us e to get ready for fair, please return those as soon as possible. State Fair TotalsWe received some State Fair statistics we thought might be interesting to our 4-H families. There were   11,526 total exhibits by 4,155 exhibitors in 4-H this year.   The breakdown by area is as follows:

Swine - 416 head, 170 exhibitorsSheep (market and breeding) - 627 head, 209 exhibitorsScience and Technology - 598 exhibits, 508 exhibitorsRabbit - 351 head, 94 exhibitorsPoultry - 291 head, 86 exhibitorsPlants - 1397 exhibits, 56 0 exhibitorsPersonal Development and Leadership (Contests) - 105 exhibits,   101 exhibitors Goat (market and breeding) - 319 head, 106 exhibitorsHealthy Lifestyle Education - 1723 exhibits, 1111 exhibitorsEnvironmental & Earth Sciences - 366 exhibits, 315 exhibitorsDog - 239 entries, 91 exhibitorsConsumer and Family Science - 3028 exhibits, 1853 exhibitorsCompanion Animal - 13 entries, 12 exhibitorsCommunication and Expressive Arts - 755 exhibits, 518 exhibitorsCitizenship and Civic Education - 394 exhibits, 318 exhibitorsBeef (Market and Breeding) - 632 head, 331 exhibitorsDairy - 166 head, 43 exhibitors

Introducing Robert TignerRobert has been an Extension Educator with UNL since March 2009. He served as the Southwest 4 Ag Educator until June 2014 when he moved to Red Willow County Extension. Robert’s specialty for ag education is farm management, farm bill, and farm economics. Tigner’s previous position was with Iowa State University as the northeast Iowa Farm Management Specialist for 10 years. He was a dairy farmer before starting his Extension career. Tigner has a BS in Dairy Science from Iowa State University and an MS in Agricultural Industries from the University of Wisconsin. Robert is married to Teresa, who works for Viaero, and has two step-daughters and two grandchildren. He likes to collect, shoot pistols and rifles, and reload.

Introducing Ben DuttonBen is the newest addition to the Red

There are still County & State Fair items at the Extension Office. Please make arrangements to pick

them up as soon as possible.

The Checks are in the Mail Premium Sale, Rate of Gain Champion, and Swine Carcass Contest Champion checks were mailed August 26. Please be responsible and cash or deposit them as soon as possible.

National 4-H WeekNow is the time to begin thinking of ways you or your club can celebrate 4-H with your family, club, or community during National 4-H Week, celebrated October 5-11, 2014. This is the perfect time to thank your volunteer leaders for their commitment to your club and use your creativity to promote 4-H in your school or community. Window displays and bank marquees are great ways to share your message about 4-H. This is your opportunity to share with friends what you like about 4-H and a chance to help recruit new 4-H members.

Nebraska 4-H Foundation AwardsThe Extension Office is once again seeking nominations for the following awards: Outstanding 4-H Members, Outstanding 4-H Alumni, and the Heart of 4-H Award. The nomination form was emailed to all of our 4-H members and parents who have provided an email address to us. The form is also enclosed for you to use. Please return the nomination form to the Extension Office by Wednesday, October 8. The awards will be given at the Achievement Celebration on Sunday, October 19.

Nebraska 4-H Club of Excellence/Volunteer of ExcellenceThe Club of Excellence and Volunteer of Excellence forms have been emailed to all 4-H club leaders. We encourage all clubs to document community service and volunteers to track their service to 4-H clubs on these forms. These forms are also posted on our website. Please return both forms to the Extension Office by Wednesday, October 8.

Career Portfolios (Record Books) & Award Applications4-H Club member and project lists were emailed to each of our club leaders. Please return those lists along with any award applications you receive to the Extension Office by Wednesday, October 8.

Achievement CelebrationAchievement Celebration will be held on Sunday, October 19 at 5:00 p.m. in the 4-H Building. This year there will be a meal with the meat and table service provided. Everyone attending is asked to bring a salad or dessert to share. 4-H leaders, Clover Kids, and 4-H members will be recognized as well as county award winners and state award nominees will be announced. 4-H members will also be able to pick up their 4-H ribbon premium money.

4-H Committee Volunteers NeededFour committees have been created to provide input, ideas, and suggestions for the success and growth of the 4-H program. They are Companion Animal, Livestock, Consumer Family Science, and Shooting Sports. These committees will forward recommendations and insight concerning policies, programming, and events to the 4-H Council through a 4- H Council representative. Donna is looking for youth and adults to volunteer to serve on the se committees. Youth members should currently be active in the committee’s focus area. Adults should have family members involved or be involved as a volunteer in the committee’s focus area. Each members’ term will be two years. Youth members must be 14 years of age or older. Each committee will meet two or three times a year. Please call Donna at the Extension Office if you are interested.

Saturday Morning Kids FunSaturday Morning Kids Fun Workshops will begin on November 1. These workshops are held once a month for any youth to experience hands on learning in a variety of 4-H curriculum areas. A small fee is charged for supplies and pre-registration is required. Please see the enclosed flyer for workshop s and details on sign-up. If you have questions, p lease call the Extension Office. Registrations for the first workshop are due by Monday, October 27 .

Saturday Morning Kids Fun Help Donna is in need of helpers for the Saturday Morning Kids Fun Workshops. This is great way to develop leadership skills. Helpers for Clover Kid Workshops must be age 12 or older. Helpers must be 14 or older to help with the workshops for traditional 4-H age kids. Please see the enclosed flyer for the workshop dates and let Donna know as soon as possible if you are able to help.

4-H CouncilThere will be no meeting of the Red Willow County 4-H Council in October. T he next meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 2 5 at 7:00 p.m. in the Extension Office meeting room.

C WF 2017 Youth interested in participating in the CWF (Citizenship Washington Focus) trip in 2017 are asked to contact Donna at the Extension Office or email her at donna.kircher@unl.edu. Youth must be 14 by June 1, 2017.4-H CouncilThe next meeting of the Red Willow County 4-H Council will be held on Tuesday, Octo ber 2 7 , at 7:00 p.m. in the Extension Office meeting room.

Career Portfolios (Record Books) Due October 5 In order to receive premium money for the ribbons received at County Fair, 4-H members must complete their Career Portfolios. There is also a simple one page Clover Kid Record Book. However, Clover Kids will receive their premium money regardless of whether they complete the form. There are links to both the Career Portfolio and the Clover Kid Record Book under the Red Willow County 4-H link on our website. All record books are due to the Extension Office, not to your leader, by Monday, October 5. If you need assistance in completing the Career Portfolio, please contact Donna at the Extension Office .

Leaders to Review Career Portfolios

Donna has arranged for all 4-H’ers to deliver their Career Portfolios to the Extension Office by Monday, October 5 . Her plan is to have all leaders come to the Extension Office to review and sign them. Each l eader will be asked to bring one or two additional volunteers from their club to assist in going through the books . Donna will contact all leaders to set up a time to come do that.

Nebraska 4-H Diamond Clover Program4-H members in Nebraska have an exciting opportunity to participate in a non-competitive recognition program called the Nebraska 4-H Diamond Clover Program. This self-paced, six level program recognized the accomplishments of 4-H members from 8 to 19 years of age. It is not intended to replace the existing county awards program. This is an optional program, however we encourage all of our 4-H’ers, ages 8 and over, to apply. Application forms are available on the 4h.unl.edu website. They are due to the Extension Office with the Career Portfolios on Monday, October 5.

National 4-H Week Resources Available Each year, the Nebraska Extension 4-H Youth Development Program observes two special timeframes that provide an opportunity to share 4-H pride and awareness with those in our communities. National 4-H Week is held during the first full week of October and Nebraska 4-H Month is held during the entire month of February. Celebrations of one or both of these time frames can be customized specifically to each county; this may include the planning of educational events, special celebrations, letters to the editor, newspaper articles or supplements, signing of a proclamation or resolution by local dignitaries, community services events, etc. The 2015 National 4-H Week, “4-H Grows Here,” will be held October 4-10. The promotional toolkit for this celebration is currently available online at the National 4-H Marketing Online Resource Center at http://www.4-h.org/morc. This promotional toolkit has been updated to contain the Nebraska

Extension 4-H identifiers; a link to these resources can be found at http://4h.unl.edu/4hpromotion . In addition to these materials, a Nebraska Social Media Content Library for Facebook and Twitter is also available at http://4h.unl.edu/4hpromotion. Numerous graphics sized just for social media, as well as some suggested messaging, can be found in these folders. More information about National 4-H Council’s vision for National 4-H Week and marketing initiatives beyond this time frame is available by watching the 4-H Grows Here Brand Webinar at https://youtu.be/5- 3AHRFPYvA .

National 4-H Week at Raising NebraskaCelebrate National 4-H Week by attending the free, fun for all ages “Science Saturday” at Raising Nebraska on Saturday, October 10 between 10:00 a . m . to noon. The feature program is the 2015 National 4-H Science Day Experiment – Motion Commotion. Get moving and conduct the experiments at your own pace, led by youth, and enjoyed by all. Let’s show how “4-H Grows Here” in Nebraska! Raising Nebraska is located in the Nebraska Building on the Nebraska State Fairgrounds at 501 E Fonner Park Rd, Grand Island, NE 68801. For more information on Raising Nebraska, visit www.raisingnebraska.net .

Purple Ribbon WinnersThe Hillcrest Foundation is offering an auction package during their fall fundraiser called the Purple Ribbon Winners. Each month a different 4-H’er will provide a baked item for the person who has the highest bid on the package. Tamra Neel is organizing this project. If you are interested in volunteering your baking abilities, please contact Tamra at 345-4600 by October 13.

Nebraska 4-H Foundation AwardsThe Extension Office is once again seeking nominations for the following awards: Outstanding 4-H Members, Outstanding 4-H Alumni, and the Heart of 4-H Award. The nomination form is enclosed. Please return the form to the Extension Office by Fri day, October 2 3 . The awards will be given at the Achievement Celebration on Sunday, November 1.

Achievement CelebrationOur end of the 4-H year celebration will be held on Sunday, November 1 at 6:00 p.m. in the 4-H Building. A meal will be held with the meat provided. Each family attending is asked to bring a salad or dessert to share. This celebration is where all of our 4-H Funding Opportunity for 4-H Clubs The Red Willow County 4-H Council has set aside funds to provide financial support to 4-H clubs. This is to support educational opportunities and/or service learning projects for club members. This financial support is beyond the ability of the club’s resources. Examples include supplies, equipment or travel expenses for field trips. Club leaders should submit a one page proposal stating: The proposed date or time frame of the event or project, goals, description, number of club members participating, amount of funding the club is willing to put toward the project/event and a budget for the funds being requested. Requests should be submitted to the Extension office by the third Friday of the month so the proposal can be put on the 4-H Council’s meeting agenda on the fourth Tuesday.

members, Clover Kids, and 4-H leaders are recognized. County award winners and state award nominees will be announced. 4-H ribbon premium money , for those who completed their Career Portfolios , will also be available. Ribbon Premium MoneyWe ask that youth and leaders who were unable to attend the 4-H Achievement Celebration, pick up their premium money, certificates, pins and awards from the Extension Office as soon as possible. All Clover Kid members who exhibited at County Fair have ribbon premium money available to be picked up.

Premium money must be picked up by 4:00 p.m. on December 18 th or it will be donated back to the Red Willow County F air Board. The following people have items here : Trey Barnhart Hannah Esch Laini Johnson Dave Ruppert Wyatt Benes Andersen & Tucker Gillespie Lance Kelley Chris Schaben Ashley & Ty Bennett Julie Gillespie Jody Kelly Abigail SchneiderBIT N SPUR Emily Gosch Cameron & Colton Lashley Abigail & Cort SchultzElizabeth & Hunter Blume Barb Hinz Gracie Lentz SHOOTING STARS Kyler & Riley Bortner Jennifer & Rob Hinze Julia & Nathan Lytle Todd Theisen Layten Bortner Stephen Hoffman Jaci & Wyatt Meyers Darla & Steve ThompsonJuliet t Critchfield Beth, Erica, Grace & Samuel Hoyt Ava Peterson Shannon Vrbaz Ella Cure Sarah Hoyt Rebecca Peterson Rachel Witt Erik Eiler Olivia Hughes Kathy Quaduor Pam Wolford Brenton, Kaitlynne & W. Tyler Ellis Brenley Johnson ROCKETEERS Miranda Wordekemper Camryn Yilk

County Fair MattersThank you for your questions & comments about the Fair. Enclosed are responses to the issues that were presented. If you have any questions, please contact Donna Kircher at the Extension Office , ( 308) 345-3390 .

Saturday Morning Kids Fun The next Saturday Morning Kids Fun Workshop s will begin on November 7 December 5 th , at 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM or 1:00 to 4:00 PM with a Clover Kid (ages 5-7) Bird Feeder session. These workshops are held once a month for any youth to experience hands on learning in a variety of 4-H curriculum areas. A small fee is charged for supplies and pre-registration is required. Other dates workshops will be held are : January 2 Cinch Bag (Morning limited & Afternoon Open) Dec ember 5 February 13 Robotics (Morning & Afternoon FULL) March 5 A Garden of Herbs (Morning Open)

Jan uary 2 Febru ary 13 March 5 A registration form will be distributed through the schools soon.

Sewing Together Quilt Class

Participants in this class will learn basic sewing skills by making a woven ribbon quilt. The class will meet November 9, 2015 thru January 25, 2016 on the scheduled dates and times. The goal is to complete a twin sized quilt by county fair clothing day judging in July 2016. Class begins Monday, November 9 in the 4-H Building.

Text, Talk, Act Program Addresses Mental Health of YouthWe are all committed to helping 4-H’ers and all young people across the nation to respond to challenges every day in their communities and world. A key component of this is ensuring healthy minds for our 4-H’ers. Given that 3/4 of all mental health issues present themselves before age 24, and that only 1 in 4 Americans seek treatment for mental health issues, this work is more important than ever. That’s why we are partnering with an innovative program that is proven effective in getting young people more comfortable talking about mental health. Text, Talk, Act uses text messaging to facilitate a face-to-face conversation on mental health. Participants gather in small groups (3-4 people) with one cell phone per group. They text START to the number 89800 to receive a series of text messages that guides their group through a conversation on mental health: why it is important, how to care for it, and how to help a friend in need. The text messages include videos, social media interactions, polling questions and discussion questions. On Tuesday, November 10, 4-H is teaming up to bring Text, Talk, Act to all of our 4-H programs, free of charge. Here are three things you can do to help out:

1. TRY IT — It’s easy! Simply text “START” to 89800 and follow the prompts. Text, Talk, Act is available for you to try right now.2. SHARE IT — Share this information with your local 4-H programs. Attached is an email for you to use to let them know about this important opportunity.3. HOST IT — Bring Text, Talk, Act to your 4-H program on November 10, or simply do it with friends and family. It takes less than an hour, and you can do it anytime that’s convenient for your group.

4H’ers that host Text, Talk, Act can win $1,000 for their program. For more information, visit . With your help, we will empower 4-H’ers to raise awareness on mental health and become more comfortable reaching out to peers in need. If you are interested in learning more about Text, Talk, Act, please contact Raquel Goodrich at . Sewing Together Quilt Class Participants in this class will learn basic sewing skills by making a woven ribbon quilt. The class will meet November 9, 2015 thru January 25, 2016 on the scheduled dates and times . The goal is to complete a twin sized quilt by county fair clothing day judging in July 2016. Cost of the class is $10.00. The registration form is enclosed and due to the Extension Office by Monday, November 2.

Sewing Together Clothing ClassA clothing construction class will be held beginning in December 2015 and meeting through May 2016. Participants may choose any pattern for any piece of clothing they would like to make. The goal will be to complete the item by county fair clothing day judging in July. Dates for Sewing Together Classes are : Thursday, December 10 / Measuring & organization / Ext. Office Monday, February 8 & 22 / 4-H Bldg. Big Room Monday, March 14 & 28 / 4-H Bldg. Meeting Room Monday, April 11 & 25 / 4-H Bldg. Meeting Room Monday, May 9 & 23 / 4-H Bldg. Meeting Room Times for Sewing Together Classes are : 5:00 to 6:30 PM & 7:00 to 8:30 PM. Limit 10 per each session.

Details will be included in the November Signal.

Saturday Morning Kids Fun Saturday Morning Kids Fun Workshops will begin on November 7 with a Clover Kid (ages 5-7) Bird Feeder session. These workshops are held once a month for any youth to experience hands on learning in a variety of 4-H curriculum areas. A small fee is charged for supplies and pre-registration is required. Other dates workshops will be held are: December 5 January 2

February 13 March 5 A registration form will be distributed through the schools soon.

Martha and Don Romeo ScholarshipThe Nebraska Association of Fair Managers will award a $500 scholarship to one qualifying 4-H male and a $500 scholarship to one qualifying female who are graduating senior s in the state of Nebraska and who plan to continue with post high school education. Local Extension Offices are allowed to forward an application from one male and one female to be considered. Applications were mailed to our 4-H members who are high school seniors. They must be returned to the Extension Office by Tuesday, November 24.

Sending Thank You’s It’s not too late for 4-H members who were involved with the 4-H Premium Showcase to write a thank you note to the buyer who purchased your premium. This is in addition to the personal thank you with the ribbon plaque that was given to the buyer at the showcase. B uyer’s address es w ere included with all of the Premium Showcase checks. Winners of tr ophies, plaques, buckles, and bags are also encouraged to send the sponsor a thank you note. Sponsor addresses were included with each award.

Funding for 4-H Clubs The Red Willow County 4-H Council has set aside funds to provide financial support to 4-H clubs. This is to support educational opportunities and/or se rvice learning projects for club members. This financial support is beyond the ability of the clu b’s resources. Examples include supplies, equipment or travel expenses for field trips. Club leaders should submit a one page proposal stating: The proposed date or time frame of th e event or project, goals, description, number of club members participating, amount of funding the club is willing to put toward the project/event and a budget for the funds being requested. Requests should be submitted to the Extension Office by the third Friday of the month so the proposal can be put on the 4-H Council’s meeting agenda on the fourth Tuesday.

ESI Camp The ESI Camp has been scheduled to be held on June 24 th . More information to follow.

2016 Red Willow County FairTh e dates have been set for next year ’s fair . It will be held July 20 – 24, 2016.

Opportunity for Photographers from Across NebraskaAn exciting statewide Photography Call sponsored by Hildegard Center for the Arts, in partnership with the Nebraska Tourism Commission and the Nebraska State Historical Society, is inviting communities to serve as a bridge, linking history, generations & cultures. The Photography Call is entitled, Bridges: Sharing Our Past to Enrich the Future and runs through January 4, 2016. This Call is inviting YOU & YOUR community to highlight historic places in your own county. To see full en t ry guidelines and to submit photos, go to www.hildegardcenter.org . Selected photographs will be exhibited statewide to help celebrate Nebraska ’s Sesquicentennial in 2017 .

2016 Fonner Park State 4-H Horse Show

The 2016 Fonner Park State 4-H Horse Show will take place on July 10-14, 2016.

2016 Red Willow County FairThe dates have been set for next year’s fair. It will be held July 20 – 24, 2016.

Funding for 4-H Clubs The Red Willow County 4-H Council has set aside funds to provide financial support to 4-H clubs. This is to support educational opportunities and/or service learning projects for club members. This financial support is beyond the ability of the club’s resources. Examples include supplies, equipment or travel expenses for field trips. Club leaders should submit a one page proposal stating: The proposed date or time frame of the event or project, goals, description, number of club members participating, amount of funding the club is willing to put toward the project/event and a budget for the funds being requested. Requests should be submitted to the Extension Office by the third Friday of the month so the proposal can be put on the 4-H Council’s meeting agenda on the fourth Tuesday. 2016 Nebraska Pork Youth Conference From Sunday afternoon, October 16 through approximately noon, Tuesday, October 18, the Nebraska Pork Producer’s Association, Nebraska Extension, and the UNL Department of Animal Science will sponsor a Nebraska Pork Youth Conference. Participants will evaluate market animals, grade carcasses into wholesale and retail cuts, and exercise basic culinary methods on a variety of different pork products. Hands-on activities will include a genetics lab, a food safety lab, and a biosecurity and animal health activity. Various life skills will also be intermixed throughout the program that focus on developing communication, leadership, and networking skills. Because of the extensive hands on activities, the program is limited to only 32 high school aged youth. Applications will be available online until August 15. Other than transportation to and from Lincoln, the conference is free, all lodging, meals, and conference materials will be covered.

URL: http://www.unk.edu/academics/crrd/business_idea_contest.php http://www.unk.edu/academics/crrd/ business_idea_contest.phphttp://www.unk.edu/academics/crrd/business_idea_contest.phphttp://www.unk.edu/academics/crrd/business_idea_contest.phpInnovative Youth Corn ChallengeDo you enjoy being outside? Learning new things about crops? Considering a career involving crops, insects, diseases, soils, water or more? Do you want to help figure out how to feed our world’s growing population in a sustainable way? Nebraska Extension and the Nebraska Corn Board are offering the 8th Innovative Youth Corn Challenge contest. This contest, open to 4-H members (age 10 & older as of Jan. 1st) or FFA members (in-school members), guides participants through all aspects of corn production, as well as agricultural careers related to corn production. As a team (2 or more participants), youth will be challenged to implement a production practice different than normal to determine if they increased their yield. Economics and sustainability of the practice will also be considered. Yields, cropping history, and production information will be collected in the Corn Yield Challenge management summary. Cash prizes and plaques are given. First place receives $1,000, second place receives $500, and third place receives $250. Sustainability, crop scouting and “extra mile” awards are also given as cash awards. To participate, youth must complete and return an entry form by March 15th to the Fillmore County Extension Office in Geneva, NE. Forms can be downloaded at cropwatch.unl.edu/youth/activities. For more information, contact Brandy VanDeWalle at brandy.vandewalle@unl.edu.

UNL Computer Science Summer WorkshopThe Jeffrey S. Raikes School of Computer Science and Management at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is pleased to announce a summer learning opportunity for high school students. Students who are interested in learning more about computer science and innovation are encouraged to apply to Innovate: The Raikes School Way and Girls Who Innovate: The Raikes School Way. High school students, primarily those graduating in 2020, will participate in a two-week, project based, on-campus workshop, where they will learn basic programming skills, receive instruction from Nebraska faculty

members, experience what classes can be like in the Raikes School, visit local businesses and research labs, and interact with Raikes School students and staff, all of whom play a key role in the competitive selection process to our program each year. This workshop will be held July 7-20. Cost is $525 with limited need-based scholarship opportunities available. No programming experience is needed. The application deadline is March 29. Interested participants are able to find more details and application materials at http://raikes.unl.edu/summerworkshops. A video found at https://youtu.be/ey6fPUMLlHw gives you a glimpse of what students can expect to experience. A promotional flyer is also linked here. If you have any questions about the workshop, please email Anna Pressler at anna.pressler@unl.edu.

Recording Community Service Projects Club Leaders and 4-H youth, brag about your community service accomplishments by posting to the 4-H community map at http://4h.u.unl.edu/4hcommunityserviceprojectmapsubmission. Please make sure to fill everything completely out, including number of volunteers, total number of hours worked for all volunteers, dollar value of items donated, and a short description of the activity, with as much detail as possible.

Aksarben Stock Show Transitions to Junior Livestock Show FormatThe Aksarben Stock Show will transition to junior livestock show format in 2019. Under the junior show model, youth from nine to 19 years of age are eligible for the competition with no prerequisite of youth organization affiliation. Greg Harder, stock show director, said the change will give the 92-year-old Aksarben Stock Show growth opportunities. “Today’s agricultural youth are involved in 4-H, FFA, breed associations or open class competitions, making them diverse in their affiliations,” he stated. “We want to make sure more junior exhibitors can show at Aksarben in 2019.” Harder said part of the expansion strategy meant opening doors to additional states. “We added four more,” he said. “Arkansas, Montana, Indiana and Wisconsin will join the existing 10 state family of eligibility.” Rules for the 2019 event will be written by Aksarben Stock Show management, versus the previous system of rules within each state operating independently. “It’s very difficult to run a fair and unified show when everyone plays by different rules,” Harder said. “We’ve brought those rules in-house to a sole playbook that everyone abides by.” The Aksarben Stock Show will be held Sept 26-29, 2019 in Grand Island. For more information visit http://AksarbenStockShow.com.

an21-18. 4:30Raising Nebraska also offers Science Saturday’s which are free and open to the public for anyone to attend.  No registration is needed and are always held 10:00 a.m. to noon. Here are the upcoming programs:

September 10 – The Incredible Edible Bean: In 2015, Nebraska ranked 1st in the nation in Great Northern bean production, 2nd in pinto bean production and 4th for all edible bean production.  Nebraska provides 1 billion servings of this superfood a year.  Sessions will explore the growing of beans in Nebraska, varieties and nutrition, cooking with beans and recipe tasting.

October 8 – Drone Discover: Complete the National 4-H Science Experiment with us!  If you have done it before or it is the first time, plan on attending!

November 12 – Insects!

December 10 – Nebraska Pulses Feed the World  For more information on Raising Nebraska you may visit raisingnebraska.net or contact Beth Janning at ejanning2@unl.edu.

Raising Nebraska Please save Saturday, October 8, for a day at Raising Nebraska as a part of your National 4-H Week. The morning will be filled with Science Saturday: Drone Discovery, the National 4-H Science Experiment, from 10:00 am to noon.   This program is free and open to the public and families to enjoy the experiment and Raising Nebraska. The Nebraska Mystery Foods Event will begin with an orientation at 12:30 pm for pre-registered teams.   Youth, in teams of 2 or 4, may compete in making a main dish on location. Complete details and registration forms will be coming out soon.

Quilts of Valor II Documentary Last year, Iowa Public Television came to York, Nebraska and the Nebraska State Fair to videotape Nebraska 4-Hers, who were working with Quilts of Valor. Several of our 4-Hers, leaders and Extension Staff were interviewed and showcased. The Quilts of Valor II Documentary will be broadcast on NET on Sunday, March 6th at 12:30 PM.

4-H Companion Animal ChallengeThe 2nd 4-H Companion Animal Challenge will be held on Saturday March 12th at the Animal Science Complex at UNL. Entries are due by February 19th . For more information & registration forms, go online to: http://animalscience.unl.edu/ansc-4-h-companion-animal-challenge.

Innovative Youth Corn ChallengeNebraska Extension and the Nebraska Corn Board are offering the Fifth Annual Innovative Youth Corn Challenge contest. This contest is open to 4-H members (age 10 or older as of Jan. 1st ) and FFA members (in-school members) and guides participants through all aspects of corn production, as well as agricultural careers related to corn production. As a team, youth will be challenged to implement a production practice different than normal to determine if they increased their yield. Cash prizes and plaques will be given to the 1st , 2nd and 3rd place teams, as well as cash prizes for sustainability, crop scouting and “extra mile” awards. To participate in 2016, youth must complete and return an entry form by March 15th to the Fillmore County Extension Office in Geneva, NE. Forms can be downloaded at cropwatch.unl.edu/youth/activities. For more information, contact Brandy VanDeWalle at brandy.vandewalle@unl.edu, Aaron Nygren at anygren2@unl.edu or Amy Timmerman at atimmerman2@unl.edu.

Paws on 4-H Dog WorkshopThis one day workshop will be held at the Greater Lincoln Obedience Club in Lincoln, NE on April 2nd , 9:00 AM-3:00 PM. The flyer/registration form can be found here:http://animalscience.unl.edu/Extension/Companion/PawsOn%20Day%20RegistrationFlyer2016.pdf.

NE 4-H Roping ClinicLilienthal Indoor Arena in Grand Island is hosting the NE 4-H Roping Clinic on April 2nd & 3rd. Main instructors, Justin & Garrett Nokes, will be there to teach young 4-Hers the techniques used to qualify for Nationals Rodeo. The registration form & payment is due March 26th and registration is limited. See enclosed flyer.

4-H Shooting Sports Leader Certification WorkshopA Nebraska 4-H Shooting Sports Leader Certification Workshop is scheduled for April 16-17 at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Arlington. Volunteers have the opportunity to become certified as an adult (21 years and older) or apprentice leader (14-20 years old). Four project area will be offered – rifle, shotgun, hunting skills & archery. Registration fee is $100.00 per person for initial certification and $90.00 per person to certified instructors who are adding an additional discipline. Fees include meals, supplies and program materials. Registration on Saturday runs from 8:00-8:45 AM. For more workshop information and registration link, go to the 4-H Shooting Sports web page at http://4h.unl.edu/shootingsportseventcalaendar.

Canine Companions for LifeThe Canine Companion for Life 4-H Dog Expo will be held at the Adams County Fairgrounds in Hastings, NE on Friday, April 22nd and Saturday, April 23rd . Friday night includes a Quiz Bowl and fun activities related to dogs, and Saturday youth will practice obedience, showmanship and agility in the show ring. Additional workshops will be offered throughout the day. For more information: http://animalscience.unl.edu/canine-companions-life-4-h-expo

Nebraska Mystery Foods Event / Save The Date!

2016 Nebraska Pork Youth Conference From Sunday afternoon, October 16 through approximately noon, Tuesday, October 18, the Nebraska Pork Producer’s Association, Nebraska Extension, and the UNL Department of Animal Science will sponsor a Nebraska Pork Youth Conference. Participants will evaluate market animals, grade carcasses into wholesale and retail cuts, and exercise basic culinary methods on a variety of different pork products. Hands-on activities will include a genetics lab, a food safety lab, and a biosecurity and animal health activity. Various life skills will also be intermixed throughout the program that focus on developing communication, leadership, and networking skills. Because of the extensive hands on activities, the program is limited to only 32 high school aged youth. Applications will be available online until August 15. Other than transportation to and from Lincoln, the conference is free, all lodging, meals, and conference materials will be covered.

CASNR Power of Red Visit Day High school and transfer students can learn about the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at the Experience the Power of Red Visit Day on October 3. The visit day, held on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s East Campus, gives students the chance to hear about the college’s 30 academic programs and two pre-professional programs. They can also meet current UNL faculty, staff and students. They get to explore career opportunities and just become familiar with UNL in general. The visit day will begin at 9:00 a.m. with refreshments and a browsing session, when students can get a brief introduction to each department in the college. Following a welcome at 10:00 a.m., students and parents will attend academic sessions that offer more in-depth information about each academic program. The event

finishes with lunch and a scholarship drawing at 12:45 p.m. Optional tours of both UNL campuses start at 2 p.m. Academic interest areas featured at the visit day include agribusiness/agricultural economics; agricultural education/agricultural and environmental sciences communication/hospitality, restaurant and tourism management; agronomy; animal science; applied science; biochemistry; food science and technology; food technology for companion animals; forensic science; grazing livestock systems; horticulture; insect science; mechanized systems management/agricultural engineering/biological systems engineering; microbiology; natural resources, including applied climate science, environmental restoration science, environmental studies, fisheries and wildlife, grassland ecology and management, natural resources and environmental economics and water science; PGA golf management; plant biology; turfgrass and landscape management; veterinary science; and the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship program. For more information or to register, visit http://casnr.unl.edu/visitday.

#4HGivesBig – Two Days to Make a DifferenceFrom Sidney to Falls City, Nebraska 4-H youth have been “giving big” to local communities. In 2014, communities benefitted from 726 youth/adult volunteers and 41 4-H clubs, giving 2,084 hours to local service projects with a value of $41,690. In 2015 and beyond, we want to grow Nebraska 4-H community service efforts and make them even bigger! You are invited to be a part of a new community vitality effort by Nebraska 4-H. #4HGivesBig is a statewide weekend of service provided for Nebraska communities by Nebraska youth. The event will cultivate youth leadership and engagement, and foster community partnerships. Join the mission on October 3 and 4 – two days to make a difference. Anyone can be involved – 4-H members, non 4-H members, 4-H alumni, friends, parents, volunteers, etc. #4HGivesBig provides two days for anyone in the community to work together to make a difference. You can work alone, with friends, as large groups, or collaborate with community organizations to serve your service mission. The project can be as small as cleaning up leaves in the park or as large as creating a service project that will last beyond the two days. Options are endless. Post to social media using #4HGivesBig to allow everyone to follow your project. Join the mission and report your project at 4h.unl.edu/4hcommunityserviceprojectmap by clicking on “New Project” at the bottom of the page on the right.

2015 4-H National Youth Science DayDo you love science and fun science activities? 4-H National Youth Science Day (NYSD) is the world’s largest youth-led science experiment. On October 7, millions of young people will take part in this year's NYSD experiment, Motion Commotion, to learn about physics, speed and safety! 4-H provides everything you need to make your 4-H NYSD event a success. It's easy to make learning science fun! By logging onto the 4-H National Youth science Day Web site at http://www.4-h.org/4-h-national-youth-science-day, you can:• Register your 4-H NYSD event• Download the experiment guides• Buy science kitsBe sure to tag your photos & videos with #4HNYSD and you could be featured on 4-H social media!

Nebraska 4-H Shooting Sports Leader Certification Workshops Offered this FallTwo Nebraska 4-H Shooting Sports Leader Certification Workshops are scheduled this fall. They will be held October 10-11 in Scottsbluff and October 31 and November 1 at Ponca State Park. Registration deadline for Scottsbluff is October 1 and the deadline to register for the Ponca session is October 20. Volunteers have the opportunity to become certified as an adult (21 years and older) or apprentice (14-20 years old) leader. Five project areas will be offered at the Scottsbluff Workshop - shotgun, rifle, pistol, hunting skills, and archery. Five project areas will be available at Ponca - hunting skills, shotgun, rifle, muzzleloading, and archery. There is a minimum number of participants needed to offer these disciplines at the workshops. Workshop participants will learn under expert instruction from members of the Nebraska State 4-H Shooting Sports Training Team. The registration fee is $100.00 per person for initial certification and $90.00 per person that are adding an additional discipline. This fee includes meals, supplies and program materials. Participants must make their own lodging arrangements. Registration on Saturday runs from 8:00 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. For more workshop information and registration link, go to the 4-H Shooting Sports web page at

http://4h.unl.edu/shootingsportseventcalendar, or contact Steve Pritchard at (402)395-2158 or (308)536-2691. Registration is available only online at the link provided.

Text, Talk, Act Program Addresses Mental Health of Youth We are all committed to helping 4-H’ers and all young people across the nation to respond to challenges every day in their communities and world. A key component of this is ensuring healthy minds for our 4-H’ers. Given that 3/4 of all mental health issues present themselves before age 24, and that only 1 in 4 Americans seek treatment for mental health issues, this work is more important than ever. That’s why we are partnering with an innovative program that is proven effective in getting young people more comfortable talking about mental health. Text, Talk, Act uses text messaging to facilitate a face-to-face conversation on mental health. Participants gather in small groups (3-4 people) with one cell phone per group. They text START to the number 89800 to receive a series of text messages that guides their group through a conversation on mental health: why it is important, how to care for it, and how to help a friend in need. The text messages include videos, social media interactions, polling questions and discussion questions. On Tuesday, November 10, 4-H is teaming up to bring Text, Talk, Act to all of our 4-H programs, free of charge. Here are three things you can do to help out:

1. TRY IT — It’s easy! Simply text “START” to 89800 and follow the prompts. Text, Talk, Act is available for you to try right now.2. SHARE IT — Share this information with your local 4-H programs. Attached is an email for you to use to let them know about this important opportunity.3. HOST IT — Bring Text, Talk, Act to your 4-H program on November 10, or simply do it with friends and family. It takes less than an hour, and you can do it anytime that’s convenient for your group.

4H’ers that host Text, Talk, Act can win $1,000 for their program. For more information, visit http://creatingcommunitysolutions.org/texttalkact. With your help, we will empower 4-H’ers to raise awareness on mental health and become more comfortable reaching out to peers in need. If you are interested in learning more about Text, Talk, Act, please contact Raquel Goodrich at rgoodrich@email.arizona.edu.4-H CouncilThe next meeting of the Red Willow County 4-H Council will be held on Tuesday, December 22, at 7:00 PM in the Extension Office meeting room. National Western Stock Show Catch-A-Calf Contest Applications for this contest must be postmarked by December 1 and returned to Erin Post at Colorado State University-Adams County. You may contact Erin with questions at 303-637-8109. Applications are available at the Extension Office.

Sending Thank You’sIt’s not too late for 4-H members who were involved with the 4-H Premium Sale to write a thank you note to the buyer who purchased their premium. This is in addition to the personal thank you with the ribbon plaque given to the purchaser at the sale. The buyer’s addresses will be included with all Premium Sale checks. Winners of trophies, plaques, and coats are also encouraged to send the sponsor a thank you note. Sponsor address were included on the bottom or back of each award.

Funding Opportunity for 4-H ClubsThe Red Willow County 4-H Council has set aside funds to provide financial support to 4-H clubs. This is to support educational opportunities and/or service learning projects for club members. This financial support is beyond the ability of the club’s resources. Examples include supplies, equipment or travel expenses for field trips. Club leaders should submit a one page proposal stating: The proposed date or time frame of the event or project, goals, description, number of club members participating, amount of funding the club is willing to put toward the project/event and a budget for the funds being requested. Requests should be submitted to the Extension office by the third Friday of the month so the proposal can be put on the 4-H Council’s meeting agenda on the fourth Tuesday.

4S Goat ExpoThe 12th annual 4S Goat Expo will be held on October 4th and 5th in North Platte. The event will be located at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds located at 5015 W Highway 30. The program will cover the topics: Marketing Your Goat, Meat Goat Management for Profit, What’s up with the American Boer Goat Association, Accelerated Kidding, Goat Herd Health, Goat Basics (Parasite Management, Feeding, Showing and Hoof Trimming), and a Goat Judging Contest for Youth. This program will help you with management decisions that could affect the future of your goat business. Preregistration is $25, at the door the day of the event $35. If you have any questions please contact Randy Saner at rsaner2@unl.edu or call him at 800-200-1381. You may also visit the website at: http://www.4sgoatexpo.org/.

Giving Your Best (4-H Play-by-Play Series)Make plans to join a free, live web-based program designed for 4-H volunteers, leaders, parents, and youth development professionals.  Five separate web-based programs are being offered to benefit 4-H volunteers and parents as they learn through 4-H projects to create a vibrant 4-H club meeting.  4-H projects provide endless learning opportunities and help to develop life skills for youth between the ages of 5 and 18.  Learn more about getting the most out of your 4-H projects.  If you are in need of new educational fair exhibits, ways to increase the effectiveness of club meetings, and how to take the project beyond the club meeting and into your community, this series is for you. Register online at:  http://4h.unl.edu/givingyourbestwebseminars.  Upon registering you will receive the webinar link and more information prior to each program.  Participate from your own home or anywhere you have access to the internet.  Each program will meet on-line for one hour to help connect parents and volunteers to pertinent youth development 4-H Project resources. Connect via Adobe Connect on your mobile device, laptop or desktop computer to participate in one or more of 6-different programs on the following dates from noon to 1:00 p.m. CST. 

October 7, 2014              Seeing i2i and Junk Drawer RoboticsOctober 21, 2014            On Your Own & OK and Six Easy BitesNovember 4, 2014          Photography and SwineNovember 18, 2014        The Worth of Wild Roots and STEAM Clothing 1December 2, 2014           Making Foods for Me and A Space for Me

All programs will be presented by area UNL 4-H Youth Development Extension Educators. For more information or to download a program flier go online to http://4h.unl.edu.

Nebraska 4-H Trail RideNebraska State 4-H Camp is hosting their annual 4-H Camp Trail Ride on October 10 – 12. Trail Riders are invited to bring family, friends, and their horses to ride the trails through the Nebraska National Forest.  Along with four trail rides, the AQHA will offer Trail Challenges throughout the weekend.  Prizes will be given out to the best in class and there will be other drawings.  All ages are encouraged to see how riders and their horses can work together. On Saturday, along with the Trail Rides & Trail Challenges there will be a craft you can make for your horse.  A steak supper will start at 5:30pm for the riders and those who would like to come and enjoy a great meal. Entertainment from the Old Rusty Minstrels, Bill Hord and Larry Porter, will start at 6:30pm.  There will be a silent and live auction following the meal.  All money will go toward camper scholarships and camp maintenance. For more information go to 4h.unl.edu or contact Connie Cox at ccox5@unl.edu, 308-533-2224, or 308-880-0121. 

Nebraska 4-H Shooting Sports Leader Certification Workshops Offered in OctoberTwo Nebraska 4-H Shooting Sports Leader Certification Workshops are scheduled in October. They will be held October 11-12 in Seward and October 25-26 at Auburn. Both workshops will be held at the fairgrounds in the respective locations.  Registration deadline for Seward is October 1 and the deadline to register for the Auburn session is October 15.

Volunteers have the opportunity to become certified as an adult (21 years and older) or apprentice (14-20 years old) leader. Four project areas will be offered at the Seward Workshop - shotgun, rifle, hunting skills, and archery. Three project areas will be available at Auburn – pistol, rifle, and archery.  Participants will learn under expert instruction from members of the Nebraska State 4-H Shooting Sports Training Team. The registration fee is $100.00 per person for initial certification and $90.00 per person that are adding an additional discipline.  This fee includes meals, supplies, and program materials. Participants must make their own lodging arrangements.  Registration on Saturday runs from 8:00 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. For more information and registration materials see the 4-H Shooting Sports web page at http://4h.unl.edu/shootingsportseventcalendar, or contact Steve Pritchard at (402)395-2158 or (308)536-2691.

Make It With Wool ContestThe object of the contest is to promote the beauty and versatility of wool fabric and yarn; to encourage personal creations in sewing, knitting, crocheting, spinning and weaving of wool fabric; and to recognize creative skills. The 2014 State Make It With Wool Contest will be November 22 at the Dawson County Extension Office in Lexington beginning at 9:00 a.m.  The public fashion show is at 1:00 p.m.            The divisions determined by age as of December 31, 2014, are as follows:

Preteen – age 12 and under Junior – age 13 to 16 Senior – age 17 to 24 Adult – age 25 and over Made For Others

Entry forms, fees, and wool samples are due October 15 to the entry coordinator, Andrea Nisley at P.O. Box 757, Lexington, NE 68850. You may also contact Andrea at 308-324-5501 or anisley1@unl.edu. The narration deadline is November 1. More information is available on the National Make It With Wool website, www.makeitwithwool.com.

CASNR Power of Red Open HouseHigh school and transfer students can learn about the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at the Experience the Power of Red Open House on Saturday, October 18. The open house, held on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s East Campus, gives students the chance to hear about the college’s 30 academic programs and two pre-professional programs. They can also meet current UNL faculty, staff and students. The open house will begin at 9 a.m. with refreshments and a browsing session, when students can get a brief introduction to each department in the college. Following a welcome at 10 a.m., students and parents will attend academic sessions that offer more in-depth information about each academic program. The event finishes with lunch and a scholarship drawing at 12:45 p.m. Optional tours of both UNL campuses start at 2 p.m.  Academic interest areas featured at the open house include agribusiness/agricultural economics; agricultural education/agricultural and environmental sciences communication/hospitality, restaurant and

tourism management; agronomy; animal science; applied science; biochemistry; food science and technology; food technology for companion animals; forensic science; grazing livestock systems; horticulture; insect science; mechanized systems management/agricultural engineering/biological systems engineering; microbiology; natural resources, including applied climate science, environmental restoration science, environmental studies, fisheries and wildlife, grassland ecology and management, natural resources and environmental economics and water science; PGA golf management; plant biology; turfgrass and landscape management; veterinary science; and the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship program. For more information or to register, visit http://casnr.unl.edu/openhouse. 

Getting Recognition for Service LearningThe state 4-H office is encouraging clubs and 4-H’ers to report their community service/service learning projects on the 4-H community service app at http://4h.unl.edu/4hcommunityserviceprojectmap. They would love to be able to report the tremendous things that Nebraska 4-H’ers are doing and get an idea of the value of their work.   It only takes about 5 minutes to report activities.

Sincerely,

Donna Kircher

Donna Kircher, 4-H Assistantdonna.kircher@unl.edudonna.kircher@unl.edu

Nebraska Extension is a Division of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln cooperating with the Counties and the United Sates Department of Agriculture.

Nebraska Extension educational programs abide with the nondiscrimination policies of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the United States Department of Agriculture.

©201665

4-H Aide

Extension is a Division of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska–LincolnCooperating with the Counties and the United States Department of Agriculture.

The 4-H Youth Development program abides with the nondiscrimination policiesoIf the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the United States Department of Agriculture