Pinellas 4-H Youth Development

4-H District Events

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Wed, 09 May 2012 16:59:00 +0000

On May 5 the six counties of 4-H District Nine gathered in Pasco County for District Events. Nearly 100 4-H members were registered for this day of competitive events and District Council elections and meetings.
Congratulations to newly elected 2012/2013 District President Emily Vines!
Close to 30 Pinellas County 4-H'ers competed with demonstrations, public speaking, and Share the Fun. Many received blue ribbons and all represented their counties well.
High point winners are recognized with a medallion. Pinellas Junior and Intermediate winners are awarded with a camp scholarship and Senior winners receive a scholarship to Congress week.
Here are our Pinellas high point winners:
Matthew Galiano with Basics of GPS; Annelise Vieira with How to Organize a Binder for Success;
Michaela Polmann/Lexa Armstrong with Making a Good First Impression; Alexis Carter/Alexus Oehler with Duct Tape Art; Shannon Piquet with Whelping Puppies; Sarah Head with One Must Suffer to Be Beautiful; Amanda Benedict with If the Shoe Fits; Jared McNelis with Vermicompost; Stefan Mason with Scratch; Emily Vines with Intro to Herbal Medicine; Savannah Kutz/Samantha Richards with Animal Testing; Abby Vines with Soldier with a Tail; Elizabeth Briggs/Cheyenne Schoeppner with Who Says?; and Abby Lang/John Roe with Cha Cha/Mambo.
Once again Pinellas County had a great showing at a district-wide events. Congratulations to all who participated!

Area E 4-H Horse Show

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 16:36:00 +0000

The 4-H Horse Program is growing and thriving in Pinellas County. Last weekend 34 Pinellas riders and their horses joined 100 more from eight area counties for the Area E 4-H Horse Show at the State Fairgrounds in Tampa. What a full weekend it was! The excitement started on Friday when the competitors arrived with their families and friends for registration. At registration Coggins test results are checked, bits and helmets inspected, ponies are measured, and show packets handed out. Then it is time to move into the stalls or practice, practice, practice.
Saturday classes begin at 8:00 a.m. Last weekend the weather forecast was fairly threatening, so we all had our fingers crossed. Saturday is mainly English classes with the notable exception of the Speed Events and Trail which took place in the Charlie Lykes Arena. The weather held until the afternoon and the very competent grounds crew was able to moved the jump class course to the covered pavilion before the storm hit. In spite of the rain and wind, we were able to complete all the scheduled classes in good time.
Western classes are featured on Sunday with the recent additions of Ranch Riding and Ranch Trail. Sunday's exceptions were the very elegant Dressage and the demonstration classes for miniatures. All classes missed the Sunday morning shower.
Of the 134 entries, 60% qualify to advance to the State 4-H Horse Show, also taking place at the State Fairgrounds. Eighteen of the Pinellas competitors qualified for the state show on July 12-14. The show is free, parking is free, so please come out and watch the best of the Florida 4-H Horse Program compete.
Showing a horse involves a lot more than grooming and riding a horse. Members are enrolled in a 4-H horse project,learn how to take care of a horse, learn to be organized and how to focus on a goal.
In the words of Dr. Ed Johnson, the horse program is designed to" improve citizenship, sportsmanship, horsemanship, character, competitive spirit, discipline, and responsibility..." (Florida 4-H Area & State Horse Shows Official Rules 2012).

For more information on the Florida 4-H Horse Program, go to Florida 4-H Horse Program

Springing into 4-H Events

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 12:42:00 +0000

If it is spring, it means that all 4-H calendars are full to overflowing. Last Saturday we completed our 4-H County Events with Demonstration Day. Of the 39 entries presented March 24, 24 have qualified to advance to Districts Events May 5 in Dade City. At Night of the Arts on March 2, several 4-H members were won in their age categories and will advance with their Share the Fun acts. They are Juniors Katie Dempsey and Stefan Mason (also eligible with demonstration), Intermediates Elizabeth Briggs/ Cheyenne Schoeppner (team), and Taylor Mason, and Seniors Rebekah Briggs and dance duo Abby Lang/John Roe.
We also had 23 4-H'ers submit poster and photo entries with 17 judged at blue ribbon level, qualifying them to advance to State competition.
Look for the Thursday Clearwater Gazette for a piece on Demonstration Day.
Area E Horse show is coming up April 21. At this point I am processing 33 entries for the show. Pinellas County has one of the largest delegations in this ten county show. We have entries from nine different clubs.

One of the highlights of my recent trip to Gainesville was the location of my meeting. My group was assigned to meet in the UF Small Animal Hospital. This is a very impressive building with state of the art services. If you are interested or have a 4-H'er interested in the College of Vet Medicine, there will be an open house April 14 that includes a tour of both large and small animal hospitals. More information can be found at : http://www.vetmed.ufl.edu/about-the-college/administration/public-relations/cvm-open-house-2012/ .

If you have any questions about these events or about the Pinellas County 4-H program, please contact me at: jrogalsk@pinellascounty.org.

Help Support 4-H Community Service Project

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 19:47:00 +0000

Pinellas 4-H County Council is collecting canned goods as part of the District community service project CanRaiser. Four-H members are donating the goods to local food banks.
A second community service project is to collect items for the homeless. Along with the usual toiletry items like soap, toothpaste. or shampoo, homeless people also need socks, brushes, and wash cloths. These new items can be dropped off at the 4-H office or to any 4-H member.
If you are coming to Night of the Arts March 2, there will be a box to collect the canned goods and the items for the homeless. Show your 4-H spirit and support these worthy community serrvice projects.

Pinellas 4-H County Events

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 15:31:00 +0000

Springtime in 4-H means the competitive events are in full swing. One event common to all 4-H counties is called County Events. Pinellas County 4-H divides its County Events into two events - Night of the Arts and Demonstration Day.
Night of the Arts has three contests - Share the Fun, Poster Contest, and the Photo Exhibit. Share the Fun is the talent show with an emphasis on fun. This year's entries include piano, songs, a monologue, and dancers from ballroom to hula. Contestants are judged (except for Cloverbuds) and awarded ribbons. The top two winners in each age category advance to compete at District Events in Pasco County in May.
The Poster and Photo Exhibit Contest entries are turned in and displayed during Night of the Arts for everyone to enjoy. They are judged at a later date and the results are announced at Demonstration Day. Winning entries advance to the State competition in Gainesville.
Night of the Arts is a fun event, although it is important to remember that the entries are covered by the Communication and Expressive Arts project area. Theatre Arts, Photography, and Visual Arts are project book categories in 4-H. Some examples of these projects can be found at : http://www.florida4h.org/projects/Project_Enrollment_CAS.shtml.
Four-H members are not required to be enrolled in one of these projects to participate in any of the above contests.

The second half of County Events is Demonstration Day. Demonstration Day presentations are tied directly to the 4-H'ers project. The presentation, called a Demonstration or Illustrated Talk is an opportunity for the 4-H member to educate the audience on something interesting that was learned while working on the 4-H project. Last year the most popular project area for demonstrations was on horses.
Registration for Demonstration Day is open. All 4-H'ers who need an entry form should contact Jean Rogalsky at jrogalsk@pinellascounty.org.
All blue ribbon winners are eligible to compete at District Events. Junior and Intermediate winners from Pinellas County earn a scholarship to 4-H Camp Ocala. Senior winners are awarded a scholarship to attend 4-H State Congress.

Night of the Arts takes place March 2 at 7:00 p.m. and will be held at the Pinellas County Extension Office.
Demonstration Day takes place March 24 at 9:00 a.m. also at the Extension Office.
The public is invited to attend these events. Come and learn a little more about what the Pinellas County 4-H program is all about.

Save the Date - April 14 for District Congress

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:02:00 +0000

Coming … District 4-H Junior Congress April 14, 2012
Pinellas 4-H Juniors and Intermediates, this event is for you!

Sarasota County 4-H will host District 9 4-H Junior Congress this year. The event is scheduled for Saturday, April 14 (9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.; registration starts at 8:30 a.m.) at the Sarasota County 4-H Office, located at 6700 Clark Road (Twin Lakes Park) in Sarasota, FL 34241.

What is District Junior Congress? District Junior Congress is a fun-educational event for junior and intermediate 4-H’ers to participate in workshops and activities designed to develop leadership skills and learn about opportunities available in 4-H.

What Classes/Workshops are being offered? This year Senior 4-H’ers will be teaching sessions on Beekeeping, Dairy, Gardening, Mock Legislature, My Plate, Stop Bullying, Stow-it, Don’t Throw-it, and Waterworks. Everyone will get a chance to participate in most sessions.

What is the cost? The fee is $5.00 which includes materials. Please make your check payable to the Pinellas County 4-H Foundation. You must provide your own lunch.

How do I register? Copy the registration form below or request one from your 4-H leader, and return it to the Pinellas County 4-H Office by March 22nd. Your 4-H Agent will print your 4-H participation form (from 4-H online) and include it with your registration to the district.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
District 4-H Junior Congress
Saturday, April 14, 2012

Registration Form

Name:_________________________ Age:_______ County:______________________________

Address:______________________________________ Club:______________________________

Phone:______________________________________
e-mail:_______________________________

Please circle your top four (4) workshop choices:

Beekeeping
Gardening
Stow-it, Don’t Throw-it
Dairy
Stop Bullying
Waterworks

Please return the registration form and a $5.00 fee to the 4-H Office by March 22.

Start the Year with a 4-H Vegetable Garden

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 19:53:00 +0000

Registration is now open for the Ochs Garden 4-H Club. This program is open to youth ages 5-18. The garden is located at 14644 113th Avenue North, in Largo. The parking lot is located off of Hamlin. The garden is open on Wednesdays from 2-6 and Saturdays from 9-11. The 4-H club meetings are on Wednesdays at 4:00. For more information and a look at what we did during the fall garden season, go to: http://4-hochsgarden.weebly.com/index.html.

Each member is assigned a 10'x12' plot. All the starter plants and seeds are provided. Master Gardeners and knowledgeable volunteers teach techniques and assist the 4-H members to grow vegetables according to University of Florida guidelines. We use mainly organic methods, make our own compost, harvest rainwater, and learn to enjoy a variety of healthy foods. Best of all, the children have fun as they learn to garden, make sustainable choices, and spend time outdoors.

If you are interested in this program, please contact Jean Rogalsky at jrogalsk@pinellascounty.org or 727-582-2597 to register your child. You don't have to know anything about gardening to participate, but adults must be accompanied by at least one child. Registration deadline is January 16.

Holiday Lights and a Dog Parade - Perfect for 4-H Families

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 18:45:00 +0000

If you are looking for an inexpensive, relaxing way to spend an evening, make plans to come out to the Holiday Lights at the Florida Botanical Gardens (Extension Office address). The garden areas are filled with beautiful lighted decorations. Check out the pink flamingos!
An evening stroll is just what you need to ease away the stress of mall shopping.
You can avoid mall shopping by visiting the Gift and Plant Sale December 11 from 10a.m. until 4 p.m. A variety of items will be for sale, including jewelry, candies, outdoor items, and clothing. Plants for sale include bromeliads, orchids, native plants, and citrus.
Add a new family tradition to your holidays by entering the Dog Parade December 31. The parade will take place at 2 p.m. that Saturday. Registration is $5 per dog per category, with six categories: best costumed, sit and stay on command, best trick, best smile, most handsome boys and prettiest girls.
Registration for the parade will take place that day.
The lights, sale and parade are sponsored by the Florida Botanical Gardens Foundation. For more information go to:http://www.flbg.org/foundation.htm

Congratulations to 4-H Cook-Off Winners

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 18:53:00 +0000

On November 5, the Pinellas County Extension Office was filled with the delightful aroma of 20 plus apple and pecan dished prepared by 4-H members and volunteers. Awards were given to the highest scoring adult and youth as well as top winners in each category. Ribbons were awarded to all competitors. The winners are:

Top Adult
Heather Schoeppner – Caramel Pecan Crusted Apple Bake
Top Youth
Emily Vines – Fudge Brownies with Pecans
Category Winners
Youth Apple – Rebekah Briggs - Hare Raisin Homesteaders
Adult Apple – Cindy Peacock – Booker Creek Explorers
Youth Pecan -Amoni Green – JD Cooking Club
Adult Pecan- Heather Schoeppner –Hare Raisin Homesteaders
Family Pecan – Fahy Family – Ochs Garden

The recipes from all the entries will be available soon via e-mail and the 4-H web site.
The cook-off was part of the 4-H Open House and is open to the public as well as 4-H families.

4-H Open House This Saturday 10:00 - 2:00

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:59:00 +0000

This Saturday, November 5, is the 4-H Open House. The weather should be perfect for this annual event at the Pinellas County Extension Office. The purpose of this event is to highlight the achievements and opportunities of the local 4-H program.
Throughout the day four 4-H members will teach participants icebreakers, the difference between a visual aid and an exhibit, and how to use powerpoint in a presentation. The animal sciences will be represented in person by dairy goats and poultry courtesy of Conservatives 4-H and 4-H2O. The Hare Raisin' Homesteaders will also have information on horses and rabbits. Average Joe's 4-H will focus on technology in 4-H projects.
Along with the club exhibits led by 4-H members and leaders, partners and supporters of 4-H will also be there. The Pinellas County 4-H Foundation will be selling all the varieties of pecans at $10 a bag. The chocolate covered and glazed pecans make great gifts for the holidays. The Pinellas County Farm Bureau will have fun educational materials and information on the benefits of belonging to the Farm Bureau.
At approximately 1:00 p.m. the awards will be announced for the Apple/Pecan Cook-Off. After that, Open House attendees may sample the delicious entries. You don't want to miss this!
The final activity of the Open House is the launching of the "Rockets Away" rockets. Rocketeers bringing an empty 2-liter bottle will create a rocket and then take part in the air powered launching.
Come by the 4-H Open House and experience a little bit of everything the 4-H program has to offer.
The Pinellas County Extension Office is located at 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo.

Enter the 4-H Apple/Pecan Cook-Off Now!

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 15:11:00 +0000

The cook-off is open to all, so don't delay testing an old favorite recipe or trying something completely new. Think outside the apple pie box and share a unique (but tasty) way to use apples or pecans. There are categories for adults, youth, and families. By entering the Family category younger chefs are able to enter their creations with a little help from an adult.

Have a gluten free recipe? Try entering that recipe in the often neglected Healthy category.

4-H prizes will be awarded in each category.

The Apple/Pecan Cook-Off takes place November 5 as part of the 4-H Open House. The event takes place at the Pinellas County Extension Service at 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, 33774. All entries (the finished product) should be delivered by 10:00 a.m. Please include a copy of the recipe and a separate card with your name, phone number, recipe name, and category. Please see below for a link to the registration form:

http://pinellas.ifa.ufl.edu/blog_4H/halfsheetAppleCookOffPre-registration2011.pdf

Any questions? Contact cook-off coordinator Betty Lipe at blipe@tampabay.rr.com.

Good luck!

4-H Open House and Apple/Pecan Cook-Off November 5

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 19:21:00 +0000

Fall is officially here and 4-H'ers are beginning to think about their club booths for the 4-H Open House November 5. Every 4-H club is invited to set up a display to show off their club projects. Most clubs also have an activity to share or have items to sell to boost their club treasuries. So far we will have goats, chickens, Xtreme gingerhouse building, and the rocket creation and launch. The second half of the event is the Apple/Pecan Cook-Off. Bring in your finished product of a recipe that contains at least one apple or one cup of pecans. This event celebrates the success of the apple/pecan sale held each year by the Pinellas County 4-H Foundation.
Here is what you need to know:
To participate with a club display, leaders should contact Jean Rogalsky at jrogalsk@pinellascounty.org to register.
To hold a fundraiser, the club must submit a fundraising application. Sales need to be approved before the event.
To enter the cook-off, everyone must pre-register with Betty Lipe at blipe@tampabay.rr.com.
Forms and instructions will be e-mailed to club leaders or can be obtained from Betty Lipe.
The 4-H Open House and Apple/Pecan Cook-Off is open to the public. It takes place at the Pinellas County Extension Office at 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Come and see what 4-H has to offer. Doors open at 10:00 a.m.

Last Two Weeks to Order 4-H Apples and Pecans and Support 4-H

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 18:40:00 +0000

Time is running out to order your apples and pecans. This fund raiser of the Pinellas County 4-H Foundation is a win-win business arrangement. The buyers of the delicious apples receive a nutritious product fresh from the tree. The pecan buyers receive a versatile nutritious product guaranteed to be this year's crop. Did you know that store pecans are sometimes stored from the year before?
Benefiting from the purchase of the apples and pecans are the 4-H members. Each year $6,000.00 is allocated to assist 4-H members to attend Camp Ocala, 4-H Congress, weekend leadership workshops, compete at regional and national level, and other educational opportunities. As one 4-H member wrote, "At camp I made the best new friends and learned how important communication and respect is. Without the scholarship, my parents couldn't afford to send me and I wouldn't have had these great friends or learned so much!"

There are two kinds of apples offered in full or half bushels. A bushel of apples, in case you've forgotten, is approximately 40-42 pounds.
EMPIRE - This is a cross between a Red Delicious and McIntosh. They are medium sized fruit with dark red skin with a sweet tangy flavor that resembles McIntosh though with better color, flavor and keeping ability.
CRISPIN/MUTSU- This apple is a cross between Golden Delicious and Indo made in 1930 in Japan and introduced in 1948. It was renamed Crispin in England, a name that still persists in the US. The large to extra-large fruit has a yellow green skin with flesh similar to Golden Delicious though, slightly coarser in texture and tarter in flavor. Excellent all-purpose apple (baking, freezing, making apple jelly/apple butter, fresh eating) that keeps well.
A full bushel of apples sells for $34.00 and half bushel for $20.00.

The plain Georgia pecans are sold in 16 ounce bags in halves or pieces. They sell for $10.00 a bag.
The chocolate covered, cinnamon glazed, and cluster pecans come in a decorative 12 ounce bag. They also sell for $10.00.
What better way to start your holiday shopping than to order plain pecans for holiday recipes and beautiful bags of covered pecans for gifts?

For more information on the apples and pecans, and to order, go to: http://www.pc4hfoundation.org/applepecan.html

4-H Ends the Year and Begins the New (with Apples)

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 16:39:00 +0000

September 1 is the official start of the new 4-H year - 2011/12. Before anymore time passes, we must recognize the two Clubs of the Year. Why two clubs? 4-H clubs come in all shapes and sizes, so we recognize the large and small clubs that have excelled.
The Crazy 4 Canines 4-H Club is the large Club of the Year. With over 20 members, they do everything in a big way. Individual members have excelled with their individual project work. As a club, they complete many community service hours and are terrific 4-H ambassadors at public events. They also conduct our only county 4-H dog show. The Crazy 4 Canines 4-H Club is led by Organizational Leader Liz Piquet.
The Hare Raisin' Homesteaders have the distinction of being a first year club and of winning small Club of the Year. They have all jumped into the 4-H program by completing multiple projects, attending 4-H Camp Ocala, Congress, and 4-H Legislature. The members compete at county, district, and state levels and have a terrific time with everything they do. This club is led by Organizational Leader Betty McNelis.

If it is September, it must be apple time. Once again the Pinellas County 4-H Foundation is holding its apple and pecan sale.

There are two kinds of apples that are sold in full or half bushels. A bushel is approximately 40-42 pounds).

EMPIRE - This apple is a cross between a Red Delicious and McIntosh made in 1945 by the New York Agriculture Experiment Station and named and introduced in 1966. They are medium sized fruit with dark red skin with a sweet tangy flavor that resembles McIntosh though with better color, flavor and keeping ability.

CRISPIN/MUTSU- This apple is a cross between Golden Delicious and Indo made in 1930 in Japan and introduced in 1948. It was renamed Crispin in England, a name that still persists in the US. The large to extra-large fruit has a yellow green skin with flesh similar to Golden Delicious though, slightly coarser in texture and tarter in flavor. Excellent all-purpose apple (baking, freezing, making apple jelly/apple butter, fresh eating) that keeps well.

Full bushel of either kind of apples sells for $34.00 and half bushel of either kind sells for $20.00.
This sale is the major fundraiser of the year. Much of the money raised goes to 4-H trip scholarships, such as to 4-H Camp Ocala, Congress.
For more information on the apples and pecans, and to order, go to: http://www.pc4hfoundation.org/applepecan.html

It Is Not Too Hot to Sign Up for 4-H Gardening

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 21:03:00 +0000

Are you looking for a program for your child or children that is educational, teaches how to garden, promotes a healthy lifestyle and is fun? If you are, you need to sign them up for the Ochs 4-H Garden Club. This 4-H program is open to children 5 through 18 (as of September 1, 2011).

The garden is located at 14644 113th Avenue North in Largo, with the entrance on Hamlin Blvd.

While the garden is may seem quiet during the summer, it is filled with memories of the past gardening season and its bountiful harvest of beans, cucumbers, squash, peppers, and potatoes.

The cost to join 4-H is $15 per child per year and covers the cost of the 4-H project book and group accident insurance. There is an additional cost of $10 per garden plot. All vegetable plants, seeds, fertilizer, and supplies your child needs to grow a vegetable garden are provided.

This garden is a 4-H project club and club and project book work is expected of all members.
Gardening hours will be on Wednesdays from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Gardeners can pick one day or garden on both days.

You must pre-register your child or children by contacting Jean Rogalsky at jrogalsk@pinellascounty.org or 727-582-2597. Pre-registration is necessary as plots are limited and this program is very popular and is growing each year. Registration and orientation will be held August 25 at 6:30 p.m. Further details will be available upon pre-registration.

4-H and Extension programs are open to all persons without regard to race, color, sex, age,
disability, religion, or national origin.

State 4-H Horse Show Results

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 15:22:00 +0000

A few weeks ago, in the rainy summer weather, 4-H riders and their horses who had qualified at their Area Horse Shows, met in Tampa at the equestrian center to compete in the State 4-H Horse Show.
The results can be found at: http://animal.ufl.edu/youth/horse/Shows.shtml. Here you will find the Class Results and Overall Awards. Pinellas county did very well, so check out the Class Results. In the Overall Awards, Sara Poppleton came in 9th for Junior High Point and Kristen Venable (with We Gotta Star) received the High Point Paint Award.

Congratulations to Carol Nunez and Amanda Benedict for qualifying for the Regional 4-H Horse Show.

We are proud of all the riders and horses that competed this year.

4-H Camp Ocala - The Camp, the Myth, the Legend

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 18:55:00 +0000

This year the theme for 4-H camp was mythology, and this year proved to be a camp experience that was indeed legendary. Perhaps it was the full moon, or the shooting stars, but this week was one of the smoothest and most fun weeks ever. From the adult perspective, the camp week was a success because there were no major problems and no one had to be brought to the hospital.
Camp Counselor Keri said camp was the best experience of the summer because she was able to meet all new types of people and enjoyed the marshmallow paint war. Keri enjoyed the cell phone free week and thought it encouraged campers to be friendly and make new friends.
Camp Counselor Emily felt the week was a great way to practice leadership skills. The fifteen campers in her cabin proved a challenge, but she was able to meet the challenge and still have happy rested campers in the cabin.
Every year the adults and Sr. Counselors vote on which campers best represent the four H's of Head, Heart, Hands, Health, and Spirit. Here are the results:

Junior
Head Lacey Steele Pinellas
Heart Bowen Fisher Polk
Hands Jirah Whitehouse Polk
Health Sarah Moultrie Pinellas
Spirit Michael Mitchell Pinellas
Senior
Head Rebecca Whitehouse Polk
Heart Walter Whitehouse Polk
Hands David Squitieri Hillsborough
Health Savannah Prine Polk
Spirit Evan Julian Pinellas

This is the second year in a row Evan has won this reward.

Camping is one of the 4-H delivery methods. While on the surface it looks like all fun, children also learn to think for themselves, be more independent, and make new friends that will last a lifetime. For more information on the 4-H camping program, please contact Jean Rogalsky at jrogalsk@pinellascounty.org.

4-H County Council Election Results

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 15:44:00 +0000

On June 10, at the Summer Bash, Pinellas County 4-H Council Officers were elected for the 2011/2012 4-H year. The officers elect are:

President........................Emily Vines (4-H2O)

Vice President................Matthew Galiano (Average Joe's)

Secretary.......................J.D. Willett (Average Joe's)

Treasurer......................Keri Hannukainen (At Large)

Parliamentarian............Michaela Polmann (4-H2O)

Historian/Reporter.......Jamie Hannukainen (At Large)

Sargent at Arms .........Olivia Cook (Conservatives)

4-H County Council is a group of 4-H members from a variety of clubs who learn leadership skills while serving the county 4-H program. Ideally, every 4-H club in the county is represented on the County Council with a voting member. Members plan community service projects and assist with county activities such as the recent dinner for 4-H volunteers and partners. Other events that benefit from the county Council are the 4-H Open House, Night of the Arts, the apple/pecan fundraiser, and of course, the Summer Bash.

County Council members are encouraged to attend District Council meetings and promote 4-H activities originating from the District and State Councils. They have the opportunity to represent their district at statewide meetings and help plan State Events such as Congress and Legislature. By participating in the County Council, 4-H members have the opportunity to make a difference at the county, district, and state levels. At the same time they are learning life skills and developing friendships that will last a lifetime.

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Fri, 27 May 2011 17:22:00 +0000

Attention all Pinellas County 4-H’ers:
Help us celebrate the end of the school year with a summer bash at Walsingham Park. Burgers, hot dogs, chips, and veggie burgers will be served. We do, however, request that you bring a side dish.

At this event we will recognize the graduated seniors and wish them success as they move on in life.
Socialize with your fellow Pinellas County 4-H’ers and participate in the exciting process of electing the board of 4-H County Council. Nominate yourself or a 4-H'er you know to become a candidate for County Council.

With food, games, and your fellow 4-H’ers, there’s no better place to be.
When: June 10th from 6:00 – Dark
Where: Walsingham Park, Largo
Cost: Free

Please R.S.V.P to jrogalsk@pinellascounty.org
so that we know how much food to supply

plus we will tell you the shelter number!

May 4-H Updates

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Wed, 18 May 2011 14:40:00 +0000

Pinellas County 4-H had a spectacular day at District Events in Manatee County. Of the 34 4-H members competing, 24 came in first in their age/subject category. This is wonderful because we had so many Pinellas competitors and that so many came in first. The results are testament to the wide range of topics our 4-H'ers cover in their project work.
District Events is the advanced level for 4-H members who have already presented their demonstration at the county level. Youth from the six district counties compete for blue ribbons and District medallions. In Pinellas County Junior and Intermediate Medallion winners receive a scholarship to 4-H Camp Ocala. Senior winners receive a scholarship to 4-H State Congress. These scholarships are all funded by the Pinellas County 4-H Foundation.

Here is the breakdown by club of the Junior and Intermediate winners:

4-H2O - Anissa P., Annelise V. Michaela P. & Lexa A.

Clever Clovers - Stefan M.

Imagine That - Amanda P.

Crazy4Canines - Shannon P., Nicole S. & Katie H.

Seminole Riders - Elena D.

Hare Raisin' Homesteaders - Lacey S.

4-H Youth Frontiers - Brandon P.

Ochs Garden - Abby V.

BBB - Matthew I.

The same for the Senior winners:

Crazy4Canines - Danielle H., Allison S., Sarah H. & Savannah K.

Hare Raisin' Homesteaders - Colleen M.

All Things Equine - Amanda B.

The Conservatives - Olivia C., Beverly S. & Teressa S.

4-H2O - Emily V.

Congratulations to all who presented their demonstrations and talent acts at County and District Events!

Many of you know Chrissy Willett, leader of the 4-H Average Joe's. Chrissy has been one of the most generous and hardworking 4-H leaders, often volunteering to help with committees and special events. Chrissy is also battling esophageal cancer. Her friends (there are many) have organized the To Chrissy With Love benefit to help with medical costs. It will take place this Saturday in downtown Palm Harbor. For more information please visit http://tochrissywithlove.weebly.com.

There will be music, a bake sale, gift baskets, and games. The benefit starts at 12:00 noon. It sounds like a lot of fun with some really good people. What better way to spend the afternoon?

4-H Area E Horse Show - Not Just Horsin' Around

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Thu, 05 May 2011 13:51:00 +0000

The results this year at Area E were the best Pinellas County 4-H'ers have ever earned. Of the 30 exhibitors, 15 are advancing to the state show in July. It was not so long ago that Pinellas did not have 15 riders to send to the area show and now we are advancing 15! The top point earners were Jade Baranich, Sara Poppleton, and Amanda Benedict. Also advancing are Megan Jones, Emily Reiter, Olivia Toccalino, Kristen Venable, Eliza Cappello, Shelby Comerford, Jenna Kijowski, Carol Nunez, Lauren Tribiano, Deanna Van Riper, Morgan Wright, and Celine Frings.

These 4-H members represent 7 different clubs and show how strong the 4-H horse program is in Pinellas County. While these 4-H'ers worked hard for their success, they benefited from the strong support of their parents and 4-H leaders. 4-H horse leaders and volunteers spend an incredible amount of time and energy with their club members. They freely dispense their knowledge, wisdom, and expertise so a child can experience the benefits and joy of working with a horse.

Of course, there is more to the 4-H horse program than riding in a show.

According to Dr. Ed Johnson, "The purpose of the 4-H horse program is to provide young people an opportunity to participate in a series of activities designed to improve citizenship, sportsmanship, character, competitive spirit, discipline, and responsibility while creating an atmosphere for learning and awareness of the life about us."
(Taken from Florida 4-H Area & State Horse Shows Official Rules 2011).

As it is with any 4-H program, 4-H members learn citizenship, leadership, and life skills. Best of all, they learn these skills while learning about something they love.

If any Pinellas 4-H families have pictures to share from Area E, please send them or the link to jrogalsk@pinellascounty.org to be posted.

What will You be doing 10 years from Now?

noreply@blogger.com (Margaret Deller) — Sat, 23 Apr 2011 10:00:00 +0000

A planning process that will shape Extension programs in Florida for the next decade has begun.

This is a joint effort between the University of Florida (UF) and the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) that will allow us to have a clear path of action as an educational organization. Our goal is to create a strategic plan that will support Florida's economy, environment, and people. We want it to be relevant today and flexible enough to meet the needs of Florida's communities as they change.
Listening is at the core of Extension's long range planning effort. One way we can hear your ideas is by having you take a survey.

So please spend your next 10 minutes completing this survey. When you are done, take a minute more and share this blog with others who may be interested in contributing ideas about the future of Extension.

Mary Campbell
County Extension Director
UF/IFAS Pinellas County Extension

What Counts to You in Pinellas County's Budget?

noreply@blogger.com (Margaret Deller) — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 10:00:00 +0000

Join the eTownHall tonight and let the Commissioners know.

eTownHall will be held on Wednesday April 6, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. This on-line meeting will enable the public to send questions from their computers via a blog.

The blog opened at 9 a.m. Monday April 4, for citizens to send questions in advance of the meeting and will continue to be open until the end of the event, at 8 p.m. Today.

Tonight next to the blog, there will be a live broadcast of the eTownHall meeting showing the County Commissioners responding to the questions posed by citizens.

4-H County Events Are Here

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 17:14:00 +0000

In Pinellas County County Events are divided into two separate events. The first is Night of the Arts which can include Share the Fun (talent show), the poster and photo exhibits, and Fashion Review. The second event is Demonstration Day where 4-H members try out their public speaking skills with demonstrations, illustrated talks, and persuasive speeches. In both of these events, top scorers move on to District Events to compete with 4-H members from the five other counties in District 9.
On March 11, Night of the Arts took place with 15 4-H members competing in a variety of acts. Here are the top scorers who have the options to continue on to District Events in Manatee County May 7.

Junior:
Lana'e Hernandez with Grandma's House (Monologue)
Eleni Lambrianos with We Will Rock You (Tap)

Intermediate:
Allison Iacono with a Dance
Matthew Iacono with Hip Hop

Senior:
Evan & Adison Julian with an original song The Sun is Here to Stay
Sonali Wijesiriwardena with Jai Ho (Indian Cultural Dance)

Congratulations to all who competed and shared the fun!
See you all on Demonstration Day April 9 at the Pinellas County Extension Office.

4-H Results from the Florida State Fair

noreply@blogger.com (Jean Rogalsky) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 18:06:00 +0000

While most people know 4-H members can earn premiums and ribbons at the fair, many may not realize how much work goes into winning those ribbons.
Last month five of our 4-H members excelled in the State Fair and Champion Youth Program.

Savannah Kutz won Senior Champion Youth Dog and Katie Hendrix won Intermediate Champion Youth Dog.
Olivia Cook won second place in Senior Champion Youth Poultry.
Beverly Strautmann won Grand Champion with her goat "Southern Star" and Teressa Strautmann won Reserve Champion with her goat "Southern Gem.

These competitions involve not only preparing and showing the animal, but also keeping an accurate record book and possibly participating in a skill-a-thon, creating posters, answering questions at the Ask Me booth and speaking in front of a community group.

All this hard work and discipline results in not only blue ribbon animals, but also blue ribbon youth. Congratulations to all the 4-H'ers, parents, and volunteers who participated in and contributed to the successes at the Florida State Fair.