Rockwall County 4-H News

Rockwall County 4-H Weekly Update 042120

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Tue, 21 Apr 2020 16:05:00 +0000

VFD Lessons and Next Steps By John Maday, Editor, Bovine Veterinarian December 08, 2016 | 10:22 am EST reprint from Drovers

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 16:36:00 +0000

While we stare at the January 1 implementation of the FDA’s new veterinary feed directive (VFD) rules, it is important to note that the VFD itself is not new. The FDA has required VFDs for certain medicated feeds for years. Most of those have applied to other livestock species, but for cattle, Elanco’s Pulmotil (tilmicosin) product for BRD control has required a VFD since it was introduced in 1996.
During the recent Academy of Veterinary Consultants (AVC) conference, Elanco Animal Health technical services specialist Guy Hufstedler, PhD, outlined some of his company’s experiences and lessons learned through marketing a VFD drug.
First, he says, teamwork is critical for animal-health management and for ensuring compliance with the VFD rules. Producers need to work closely with their veterinarians, nutritionists and feed suppliers, and also look to the companies that market VFD products for information and advice. All parties involved need to make their best efforts to comply with the law, and not look for loopholes or “work-arounds.” For more on action steps for VFD compliance, read VFD plan from BovineVetOnline.com.
FDA will conduct VFD-related inspections at feed distributors, veterinary clinics and cattle operations. At that point, each party must demonstrate they have the required VFD forms on file and the forms contain all the required information. When a producer can quickly access and provide the requested records, it inspires confidence on the part of the FDA inspector and probably results in a positive outcome. In contrast, Hufstedler says if a producer cannot find the requested VFD records, the inspection is off to a bad start.
As for the VFD forms, veterinarians and producers need to work together to ensure the proper information is included, and that all the information about the drug, dosage, intended use, duration of use and withdrawal times conform with the product label. Note that VFD forms specifically state that “Use of feed containing this Veterinary Feed Directive drug in a manner other than directed on the label (extra-label use) is not permitted.”
Animal-health companies provide VFD forms specifically for their products, which can help simplify the process. The form for tilmicosin, for example, states the indication for use as “Control of BRD,” which is the only indication on the product label for cattle. For duration of use, the form specifies 14 days, which is the approved duration listed on the label.
Another of Elanco’s popular products, Tylan (tylosin) Premix, will require a VFD beginning on January 1. Tylosin is approved for continuous use for reducing the incidence and severity of liver abscesses in cattle. Hufstedler notes the “continuous use” application remains valid. Cattle feeders have expressed some concern that as cattle feed intakes change over the feeding period, intake of tylosin could vary from the grams per ton entered on the VFD form. Hufstedler says the FDA understands the variation inherent to biological systems, and he suggests entering a dosage range of eight to 10 grams per ton (on a 90% dry-matter basis), as specified on the product label.

Next steps?

The upcoming changes to antibiotic regulations in animal agriculture do not represent the end of the process. Veterinarians believe the FDA will continue to assess management practices, monitor antibiotic-resistance trends and make additional changes toward a goal of improving stewardship.
During a panel discussion at the AVC conference, Kansas State University veterinarian Mike Apley, DVM, PhD, outlined some issues FDA is likely to evaluate in the coming months and years. These include:
·         Continuous feeding of a medically important antimicrobial with no defined duration. FDA recently issued a Federal Register notice outlining it plans to reexamine indications for VFD drugs that currently have undefined durations of use. For more on this issue, read “Antibiotic Rules: Knowledge Gap Remains” from BovineVetOnline.com.
·         “Pulsing” in the use of medicated feeds.
·         Action on the remaining OTC antimicrobials.
·         Distribution of Type A medicated articles. Type A medicated articles are the most concentrated form of feed-grade antibiotics, which are mixed with other ingredients to create Type B or C medicated feeds
For more information on the VFD rule and related regulations, visit the FDA’s Veterinary Feed Directive website.
For more information on AVC, and access to recordings of entire presentations at AVC conferences, visit AVC-beef.org.

State Fair of Texas Week One

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 20:53:00 +0000

State Fair of Texas Week One

September/October 4-H Newsletter

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 17:03:00 +0000

2016 Rockwall Youth Fair

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Mon, 07 Mar 2016 15:02:00 +0000

Rockwall County 4-H Newsletter March April 2016

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Mon, 07 Mar 2016 14:52:00 +0000

Rockwall County 4-H Newsletter Jan Feb 2016

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 14:07:00 +0000

2015 County Wide Photography Contest

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Wed, 20 May 2015 16:54:00 +0000

2015 May June 4-H Newsletter

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Wed, 20 May 2015 16:51:00 +0000

2014 Awards Event

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Wed, 03 Sep 2014 20:48:00 +0000

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Fri, 25 Jul 2014 21:02:00 +0000

Congratulations Photography Project Members!

State Photography Contest at Texas 4-H Roundup

Senior 4-H members Olivia Britt and Will Morris qualified for the State Photography Contest.

Photos are scored in point values by the judges and then awarded a blue, red or white ribbon based on the score.

Results are as follows:

Olivia Britt

Animals – Wildlife - Red

Catch-All – Red

Food – Red

William Morris

Animals – Domestic - Blue

Nature & Landscape – Blue

Will scored the highest in the Nature & Landscape category and was awarded Best of Show.

His photo will be displayed in the Texas 4-H Office for the year!

Great shot Will!

All of the Best of Show pictures are posted here:

http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/photography_contest/bos14

District 4 TAE4-HA Photography Contest

Also judged this summer was the District 4 4-H Agents contest. 4-H members Mikey & McKenna Mershawn and Ethan & Ellee Spearman entered this contest. Results are as follows:

McKenna Mershawn Mikey Mershawn

Animals – Domestic – White Animals – Wildlife – Blue

Animals – Wildlife – Red Catch all – Blue

Catch all – Red Details & Macro – White

Details & Macro – Blue Dominant Color – Blue – Class Winner

Dominant Color – Blue – Class Winner Elements of Design – Red

Elements of Design – Blue Nature & Landscape – Blue

Food – Blue Marine Aquatic – Blue – Class Winner

Nature & Landscape – Blue Plant Flora – Red

Marine Aquatic – Red Theme – White

Plant Flora – Red People – Blue

Theme – Blue

Ellee Spearman Ethan Spearman

Details & Macro – Blue Details & Macro – Blue - Class Winner

Theme – Blue – Class Winner Nature & Landscape – Red

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 15:25:00 +0000

July/ August 4-H Newsletter

Educational programs of the Texas AgriLife Extension Service are open to all people without regard to race, color, sex, disability, religion, age, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating

Todd K. Williams

CEA-Agriculture/Natural Resources

Adult & Youth

Important dates at a glance!

July 20-27 Texas 4-H Horse Show

August 12 Club Manager Training

August 14 Rockwall County 4-H Awards Event

August 16 Multi County Club Officer Training

August 19 East Texas State Fair & State Fair of Texas

entries due in the Extension Office

Lamb and Goat tag orders for 2013 Winter Major

Stock Shows due in the Extension Office

August 25 Rockwall & Royse City ISD 1^st day of School

Sept 1 Heart of Texas entries due in office

Sept 9 County-wide 4-H Kick-off (County Council & PAL immediately following)

Congratulations!

Bobbie Carr - RHHS Class of 2014

We wish you all the best! Remember character is that attribute or feature that makes up and distinguishes an individual.

Integrity is what you do when no one is watching. Practice good character and keep your integrity.

County 4-H Achievement Awards and Recognition Event is Thursday August 14!

This is our opportunity to recognize 4-H’ers and leaders for their participation and accomplishments at District and State activities during the 2013-2014 4-H year. The annual event will be held on August 14, 2014 and will begin at 6:30 p.m. The location will be the Rockwall County Library.

If you completed a record book or participated in a district or state contest, please RSVP by August 8, 2014 to receive a certificate or honor at the ceremony.

4-H Club Manager Training

The annual Club Manager training is scheduled for August 12, 2014 from 6:30-8:00 pm. This will be held at the County Extension Office.

This is mandatory if you plan to have a club for 2014-2015. Each club must have at least 1 manager present and preferably all managers will attend!

We will cover updates on the revised enrollment process, club and project meeting reports.

Youth Protection Standards for Volunteers, club budgets, financial reports & club charters will also be addressed.

This fast paced meeting should last no longer than an hour and a half.

Club Managers please RSVP by calling Shelly @ 972-204-7660.

Multi-County 4-H Club Officer Training

Attention 2014-2015 Club Officers! This year we will once again be holding a multi county training with Rockwall, Kaufman, Dallas, and Cooke counties in Liberty Hall inside the new Rockwall County Courthouse . If you have been elected an officer in your 4-H club for the upcoming year, you will not want to miss the Club Officer Training on Saturday, August 16! Registration deadline is 8th

This leadership development opportunity will last all day and include training in the morning and group dynamics activities in the afternoon.

Officers from all clubs are encouraged to attend. This training promises to be educational and fun!

Registration will begin at 8:30 am, program will last until 3:00 p.m. details are attached!

Welcome to 4-H Kick-Off!

Do you love 4-H and know someone you think would love it also??? Then invite them to the annual Kick Off Event will be held on September 9, at the new Extension Office – 915 Whitmore, Rockwall, from 6:00 to 7:00 pm.

NOTE: This is an earlier date than previous years’ as requested by Club Managers to get new families involved sooner.

This activity is aimed at new and potential members.

Each club is to have a promotion table showing what your club offers in regards to projects and activities. Club officers or appointed representatives should be present to help answer questions about your club.

Texas 4-H Roundup

Congratulations Senior Consumer Decision Making Team! 4-H members Naomi Romero, Trevor Rowe & Bradley Simpson represented Rockwall County at Texas 4-H Roundup on the campus of Texas A&M University on June 11. The team placed 8^th and Bradley was 10^th High Individual. Margaret Romero and Dee Dee Simpson were team coaches.

Texas 4-H Roundup began in 1946. It includes 40 different contests that members can exhibit the lifeskills they have learned through

4-H, such as, decision making, public speaking, public performing, organization and working with others. Most of these contests are senior only contests for which youth must qualify at District Roundup to advance to State. However, some contests such as Quilt Challenge have emerged in the last few years to increase our youth’s opportunities to participate in State Roundup. For more information visit: http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/roundup

East Region 4-H Horse Show

Congratulations Rockin Riders members Grace & Katie Marcantel, Layne Miller, Courtney Murphey and Shelby & Trevor Rowe on their success at the East Region 4H Horse Show!!

Highlights include: Grace competed in Halter Mares (11th place) and Halter Showmanship (16th place).

Katie competed in Poles, Halter Geldings (11th place) and Halter Showmanship (15th place).

Layne competed in Barrels, Poles, Team Sorting and Halter Mares. Placed 10th in Halter Mares

Courtney competed in Barrels, Halter Showmanship and Team Sorting

Trevor competed with a mixed county team that won 2nd place in the Ranch Sorting and placed 13th in barrels. Trevor and Shelby's team penning team finished 4th. Shelby placed 11th in poles, 2nd in barrels and 1st in the stakes race and won a belt buckle for being Senior High Point Timed Event Champion!

Congratulations and Good Luck Shelby & Trevor at State Horse Show!!

Texas 4-H Dog Show

Congratulations to Rockwall County 4-H member Sarah Stinson!

She competed this past weekend at the Texas 4-H Dog Show in Belton

and brought home 1^st lace in the Dog Obedience category.

Shooting Sports Project News

Good Luck to Brock Green at The State Shooting Sports Games later this month!

Record Book Info.

Cade, Kami, and Kylee Adams, Hannah, Jordan and Megan Huff, Sam Kazlow, Dalene Mautner, Cade, Cody & Kirsten Miller, Will Morris, Chase Peters, Naomi Romero, Cat Sabella, Anna and Cole Schieberle, and Ethan and Ellee Spearman completed 4-H records for the 2013-2014 4-H year. Extensive work was put into these books and it really showed!

The following books advanced to District 4 Recordbook judging which was held July10:

Kamryn Adams – Jr Swine – 3^rd

Kylee Adams – Sr Swine – 2^nd

Dalene Mautner – Jr Rabbits – 3^rd

Cody Miller – Int Beef – 5^th

Kirsten Miller – Sr Beef – 5^th

Will Morris – Sr Photography – 4^th

Naomi Romero - Sr Consumer - 2^nd

Cat Sabella – Sr Swine - 2^nd

Anna Schieberle – Int Goats – 5^th

Cole Schieberle – Jr Goats – 3rd

Ellee Spearman – Jr Photography - 2nd

Ethan Spearman – Jr Beef - 1^st

2014-2015 Re-enrollment Time!

We hope everyone is having a wonderful summer! It is hard to believe that the new 4-H year is right around the corner.

When your 4-H clubs resume meeting in September, everyone must re-enroll on 4-H Connect for the new 4-H year.

If you have any problems with registering a new member, re-registering for the new year or passwords, please contact Shelly at the Extension Office.

As you register, be sure to fill out the vital information such as your address, phone number, age, grade, signature, project interest(s) and the date.

Cost is $20 per member. After October 31, the cost will increase from $20 to $25/ per child and all non-renewals will be dropped from our mailing list.

You must attend a 4-H meeting for your online registration to be certified by this office. Clubs attendance policies will still be in effect. It is important for you to attend every meeting if possible so you do not miss out on important information or club activities! It is also important for at least one parent to attend the meetings too.

STATE FAIR OF TEXAS

The 2014 State Fair of Texas is September 24 – October 19. The State Fair of Texas has many opportunities for young people as well as adults. For a complete listing of the things you can enter or see, visit: www.bigtex.com

Creative Arts Department

Information is available online at http://www.bigtex.com/sft/CreativeArts/CompetitionHandbook.asp. There are hundreds of opportunities for 4-H members and adults including: Art, Canning, Photography, and Needlework & Sewing, Be sure and see the contest displays while you are visiting the fair. Entry forms and fees must be sent by mail and received by the State Fair on or before July 27.

Junior Livestock Show

There are many livestock and horse events to enter or see at the State Fair. Many horse events take place before the fair officially opens, as do some of the junior livestock activities, so plan in advance before you go! .

Livestock Contests

There are several Agriculture based contests that will be held during the Fair in addition to the livestock exhibition contests. These include Livestock Judging, Public Speaking, Quality Counts Photography and more! Visit http://www.bigtex.com/sft/LiveStock/Contests.asp for more info.

Junior Livestock Show and most Contest entries must be received in our County Extension Office by August 19th so they can be processed and sent to the fair by their due date. All of the rules and entry forms for these contests are available at: http://www.bigtex.com.

Ranch Sorting & Team Penning

The Youth Ranch Sorting & Team Penning contests will be held Sept 24-26. All of the rules and entry forms for these contests are available at: http://www.bigtex.com

Other Fair Deadlines: You must have a Quality Counts # prior to entering State Fair and Heart O Texas Fair. See below.

East Texas State Fair entries are also due on August 19. Visit etstatefair.com for more information on this show.

Heart O’ Texas entries are due September 1. Visit hotfair.com for more information on this show.

Quality Counts verification is required for all youth exhibiting livestock (market and/or breeding) at major livestock shows in Texas (including the Ft. Worth Livestock Show, San Antonio Stock Show, Houston Livestock Show, Star of Texas Fair, San Angelo Livestock Show, State Fair of Texas, and Heart O’ Texas Fair). This is also required for Rockwall Youth Fair.

The verification process will require junior exhibitors to pass an online test that measures their knowledge on quality assurance and character education content items. Youth are able to go online to take the test and become verified. A verification number will need to be provided at the time of making an official entry into a Texas major livestock show. Thus, youth will need to have completed and passed the test before the major livestock show’s entry deadline. A passing score has been determined to be 80%.

Youth educators and the major livestock shows in Texas believe strongly in Quality Counts. For more information, please contact your County Extension Agent or Agriculture Science Teacher. To learn more about Quality Counts including the verification process, please visit: http://qualitycounts.tamu.edu/.

If you turned 14 this year, your number is no longer valid and you must take the Senior test.

Winter Major Stock Show Tag Orders

Anyone wishing to exhibit lambs, goats or hogs at 2013 Winter Major Stock Shows must order tags by the date below.

Cost for the major stock show validation tags will be $12. Tags will only be ordered for those that have paid by the deadline. Any orders after that date will be subject to late fees set by the state office. If you have any questions call the office.

FYI - Steers for majors have already been validated.

Steers for Rockwall Youth Fair will be validated in September.

Lamb or goat— August 19.

Hog — September 15.

Calf Scramble Updates

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, San Antonio Livestock Show and the Fort Worth Stock Show offer opportunities for youth to receive animal purchase certificates for catching calves in their calf scrambles. San Antonio participants need to be at least 12 years old by January 1, 2014, but not yet 18 nor enrolled beyond the junior year of high school. Fort Worth & Houston participants must be at least 14 years of age. Certificates from Fort Worth can be used for a breeding beef or dairy heifer. A certificate from San Antonio can be used for breeding sheep, goats, beef, swine or dairy. Houston certificates can includes beef heifers or steers. Contact the office by August 31 if you are interested in any of these.

Rockwall County 4-H Clubs & Information

Note: Most clubs take the summer off!

Please watch for info. from your Club Manager of when and where your 1^st meeting of the new year will be.

Rockwall County Beef Club – NEW!

1^st meeting will be August 3^rd at the Miller Residence

(Same location as Jones Park) – 3pm

All beef project members current and new are invited to attend.

Busy Bee’s 4-H Club

Junior

Ages:

8 and in the 3rd grade, 9 & 10

Birth dates between:

Sept 1, 2003 – Aug 31, 2006

Intermediate

Ages:

11 to 13

Birth dates between:

Sept 1, 2000 – Aug 31, 2003

Senior

Ages:

14 to 18

Birth dates between:

Sept 1, 1995 – Aug 31, 2000

EFFECTIVE FOR THE 2015-2016 TEXAS 4-H YEAR 4-H PARTICIPATION WILL BE BASED ON GRADE LEVEL. A YOUTH CAN BE A 4-H MEMBER STARTING IN 3RD GRADE AND ENDING IN 12TH GRADE

3rd Monday of every month

6:30 p.m. Toyota of Rockwall

Rockin’ Riders

Horse Club

1st Monday of every month

Time & location TBA

Rockwall Clovers 4-H Club

Time & location TBA

Texas Tumbleweeds 4-H Club

2nd Friday of every month

Bevans Arabians

Are you subscribing to our blog yet?

http://rockwallco4h.blogspot.com/

Subscribing to the blog is the best way to get 4-H information as it happens!

Rockwall County 4-H Gazette

With the advancement of technology, budget crunches, and information on demand concerns, the "Gazette" has moved to a computer based e-letter format. We will still send it out at the beginning of odd months. It will be posted on the County 4-H News Blog and club managers will still have some hard copies available at the club meetings if needed. This will allow more time for you as a family to have discussions on needed items, and make informed decisions with more lead time. We are excited about this format and trust you will be as well. We will try to be sensitive to those families who still may have dial up. So the pictures may be minimal.

See the Rockwall County Extension Mid Year Update at this Site

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Thu, 17 Jul 2014 18:36:00 +0000

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86YTFLr_1q8

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Wed, 21 May 2014 18:35:00 +0000

Rockwall County 4-H Weekly update for approaching events 05/21/14

Educational programs of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service are open to all people without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or veteran status.

The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating

Todd K. Williams

CEA-Agriculture/Natural Resources

Adult & Youth

Important dates at a glance!

May 30 – Deadline to register for Ultra Leadership Camp

June 1 – RSVP deadline for County RoundUp

June 6 – County Roundup

June 14 – Record Book Deadline

June 16-18 – East Region Horse Show

Countywide RoundUp

June 6 – Jones Park, 1107 Laurence Drive, Heath, Texas. The Rockwall County 4-H Council and the Parent/Adult Leaders are hosting a Rockwall County 4-H Roundup at the conclusion of the 2013-2014 school year. It will be held at Jones Park, 1107Laurence Drive, Heath, Texas. This is behind the home of Mr. and Mrs. Miller’s home. It is a private park. They are allowing us to use the 15 acre park for fun and games. The gathering will officially start on Friday, June 6^that 6:00 p.m. It will conclude at 8:00 p.m. There will be volleyball, horseshoes, washers, fishing (if you bring your own pole and bait, and karaoke – for those brave souls (bring your own music – we’ll have the microphone and amplifier. The county 4-H program will provide hotdogs and buns. Everyone will need to bring your favorite condiments, mayo, mustard, onions, etc. and your chips and drinks.

We nice a count of all who plan on attending so we can have enough hotdogs. Please call and RSVP no later than, June 1 so we can have a count.

That is the number we will use to purchase dogs and buns.

Rain Plans – If it rains, we will move the party in doors, inside the warehouse at the Extension Office, 915 Whitmore, Rockwall. We will still eat and watch a movie. So call and make your reservations today!

Record Book Info & Deadline

Recordkeeping is a very valuable skill taught to members of the Texas 4-H program.

Members are encouraged to keep project records and have these records reviewed annually by submitting a Texas 4-H Recordbook.

The primary purposes of completing a recordbook are for a young person to develop the skills necessary to set goals, work toward achieving those goals, reflect on his/her experiences, and set new and higher goals for themselves. A secondary benefit is to prepare young people for the process of completing quality academic scholarship applications.

The County Record Book deadline is June 14. You must turn in completed records to receive recognition of project completion at the County 4-H Achievement in August.

County 4-H Awards applications will be due in the office along with record books on June 14. This is a heads up so you can get an early start on completing your forms. Gold Star, Silver Star and I Dare You applications are available in the office or on the county website. You must submit a record Book to be eligible to apply for a County Awards. Awards applications can be found at http://rockwall-tx.tamu.edu.

You can find out more about the process and how to get started by logging on to 4hreports.com.

There are instructional videos that will walk you through the process.

The District Record Book Judging will be held July 10 at the District Office. More information on this contest will be sent out as it becomes available.

If you have any questions call 972-204-7660 or come by the office.

Shooting Sports Coaches Training for Archery, Rifle, and Shotgun in Crockett on June 28-29, 2014.

This training is open to potential coaches across the state.

Registration will be conducted through 4-H Connect.
Look for 2014 D5 Shooting Sports Coaches Training.
Registration opens May 19, 2014 and closes June 16, 2014.
Please pay close attention to the deadline!
Cost is $120

The training is scheduled to be held at the Houston County Extension Office, 716 Wells Street, Crockett, Texas 75835. The phone number if needed is

936-544-7502.

Participants MUST have completed and passed the Background Check PRIOR to registering for the event, so if they have not completed this, they should do so IMMEDIATELY! NO EXCEPTIONS!!!

Additional details:

Registration will cover meals and course materials.
Only one discipline certification (archery, rifle, or shotgun) is obtainable per participant per training.
Lodging will not be provided for registrants.
Event will begin at 8:00am on Saturday, June 28 and tentatively end at noon on Sunday, June 29, 2014.
Tentative schedule, what to bring list, and release forms are attached. Additional details will be sent to those that register.

The District 5 website will be updated with information as it becomes available.

Summer Camps!

2014 ULTra Leadership Camp

June 24-26, 2014

Stone Fort Camp; 14196 Texas 110; Tyler, TX 75791

Register on 4-H Connect and pay the $127 registration fee. Registration on 4-H Connect will open on May 9 and close on midnight May 30. Agents who have been assigned are expected to attend and pay for their own registration. Chaperones are required.

Participants must be active 4-H members enrolled in a Texas 4-H and Youth Development county program in District IV.

4-H Members who are at least 13 as of the June 30, 2014 may register for this camp.

Entries per county. Each county may send as many individuals as camp space permits.

This fun leadership camp is also the location of District Officer elections. Contact the officer for more information.

Multi-County Camp

The Great Outdoors. It will be held at Lakeview Baptist Encampment in Lone Star Texas on July 7-9, 2014.

It is open to 4-Hers of all ages.

A $115.00 (non-refundable) registration fee per person and your camp forms are due to the Extension Office by May 27.

Chaperones are required. 1 per 8 campers of the same gender.

2014 Camp Workshops

Session coordinators need to have a PLAN B in place in case of inclement weather

Sewing - Outdoor First Aid

Shooting Sports - Biologist Skills - Canoeing/Kayaking

Junior Master Gardener – Edible Plants – area Master Gardner groups

ROPES Course – stations to be determined – trained camp employees

Camps at the Texas 4-H Center in Brownwood

visit: http://texas4hcenter.tamu.edu

Rockwall County 4-H Photography Contest

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Thu, 10 Apr 2014 13:26:00 +0000

Congratulations to all of the Rockwall County 4-Hers who competed in the online digital photography contest. Below are the pictures and their ribbon colors. A county agent colleague who has received numerous awards in photography and judged on the state level many times evaluated the photos. Here are some general remarks the judge made.

Be sure to read the rules and guidelines for what fits a category.
Cropping of the photo is allowed. Many images could have been made much better with cropping.
Frame your shot. Avoid items, scenes, etc., that are not critical to the subject.
Be more careful with the use of lighting, shadows and reflections.
Be on the level of your subject when appropriate.

Other remarks by your agent, Mr. Williams.

Make sure your subject is in focus. Many cameras have automatic focus; however, a slight movement of your hand can make it focus on something unintended.
Try to make sure the photo entered is in the best/most appropriate category.
Some of you were very creative and clever in your angles, the color development, and the subject matter of photos.
Keep up the good work!! Realize that photographs are subjective. They can tug on your heart strings and provoke emotions. They should always tell a story.
Thanks for sharing your talent.

Junior Division

McKenna Mershawn Animal-Wildlife Red Award - Class Winner

McKenna Mershawn - Catch All Blue Award - Class Winner

Ellee Spearman - Catch All Red Award

Ethan Spearman - Details & Macro Blue Award - Class Winner

Grace Marcantel - Details & Macro White Award

McKenna Mershawn - Details & Macro Red Award

Ellee Spearman - Details & Macro Blue Award

Grace Marcantel - Animals - Domestic Red Award

Ethan Spearman - Animals - Domestic Red Award

McKenna Mershawn Animals - Domestic Blue Award Class Winner

Ellee Spearman Animals - Domestic Blue Award

MeKenna Mershawn - Dominant Color Blue Award Class Winner

Ethan Spearman - Dominant Color Blue Award

McKenna Mershawn Elements of Design Red Award Class Winner

McKenna Mershawn - Marine/Aquatic Red Award Class Winner

Grace Marcantel - Nature Landscape Blue Award

Ethan Spearman - Nature Landscape Blue Award

McKenna Mershawn - Nature Landscape Blue Award Class Winner

Ellee Spearman - Nature Landscape Red Award

Grace Marcantel - People Blue Award

McKenna Mershawn - People Blue Award

Ethan Spearman - People Blue Award Class Winner

Grace Marcantel - Plant/Flora Blue Award Class Winner

Ellee Spearman - Plant/Flora Red Award

Grace Marcantel Storyboard - Red Award Class Winner

Ellee Spearman - What is your why - Blue Award Class Winner

Intermediate Division

Katilin Rothbaur Animals - Domestic Red Award Class Winner

Katie Marcantel Animals - Domestic Red Award

Mikey Mershawn - Animals - Domestic Red Award

Mikey Mershawn - Animals - Wildlife Blue Award Class Winner

Katie Marcantel Catch-All Red Award

Mikey Mershawn Catch-All Red Award Class Winner

Mikey Mershawn Details & Macro Red Award Class Winner

Mikey Mershawn Elements of Design Red Award Class Winner

Mikey Mershawn Marine/Aquatic Red Award Class Winner

Katie Marcantel Nature Landscape Red Award

Mikey Mershawn nature Landscape Red Award Class Winner

Katie Marcantel Plant/Flora Blue Award Class Winner

Senior Divison

Will Morris Animals - Domestic Blue Award Class Winner

Olivia Britt Animals - Domestic Blue Award

Olivia Britt Animals - Wildlife Blue Award Class Winner

Olivia Britt Catch All Blue Award Class Winner

Will Morris Details & Macro Red Award Class Winner

Olivia Britt Dominant Color Red Award

Will Morris Dominant Color Red Award Class Winner

Olivia Britt Elements of Design Red Award Class Winner


Olivia Britt Food Blue Award Class Winner Overall Contest Winner

Olivia Britt nature Landscape Red Award

Will Morris Nature Landscape Blue Award Class Winner

Will Morris Plant/Flora Blue Award Class Winner

2014 Photo Contest Rules

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Tue, 28 Jan 2014 15:54:00 +0000

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Tue, 28 Jan 2014 15:50:00 +0000

Rockwall County 4-H Gazette

Important dates at a glance!

January 1 – Ownership date for those planning to enter breeding animals at Rockwall Youth Fair

January 10 – Certification deadline for State Dog Show on 4-H Connect

January 17 – Deadline to enter District 4 Food Show & Food Challenge on 4-H Connect

February 4 – County Council & PAL

February 8 – District 4 Food Show and Food Challenge at TAMU-Commerce

February 19 – Rockwall Youth Fair entry deadline

February 25 – Rockwall Youth Fair Rabbit Validation – 6:00

Congratulations Rockwall County 4-H Consumer Decision Making members on a big showing at the D4 Contest!

Seniors – Sharon Maguire, Trevor Rowe & Emily Ullom brought home 1^st place and Naomi Romero, Bradley Simpson & Rachel Simpson brought home 2^nd! This qualified both teams for Texas 4-H Roundup this summer at Texas A&M University. Congratulations! Individually, Sharon won 2^nd place overall, 4^th place judging and 1^st place reasons, Trevor was 9^th place reasons and Emily won 6^th place overall, 7^th place judging and 6^th place reasons. Naomi won 3^rd place overall and 3^rd place judging, Bradley placed 4^th overall in reasons and Rachel won 5^th place overall and 5^th place judging.

Intermediate - Rockwall County was represented by Jordan Huff and Reece Simpson and together placed 4^th overall. Jordan placed 10^th high individual and 6^th place reasons. Reese placed 2^nd overall and 1^st place in reasons.

Juniors - Megan and Hannah Huff competed placing 2^nd overall. Megan placed 4^th overall and Hannah placed 6^th.
Join us in wishing these youth good luck at the San Antonio Stock Show in February!

Shooting Sports Updates

Project Updates – Archery practice is supposed to begin January 25^th in Blue Ridge with the Collin County Field & Stream Club. As we receive more details we will include them in the weekly update.

As interest in the Shooting Sports project grows, so does the need for certified leaders. Please see the upcoming training events and locations.

For more information about rules and requirements of coaches and information about coach training, please see the “Coach & Assistant Coach Training and Certification Information” document on the Shooting Sports website: http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/shootingsports

Winter Major Stock Shows The 2014 Winter Major Stock Show season kicks off January 23 with the Fort Worth Stock Show. From then it will continue for the next two months with Rockwall County-Hers also traveling to shows in San Angelo, San Antonio, Austin & Houston! Joshua & Olivia Born, Carson Glasscock, Tanner Howey, Hannah & Jordan Huff, Devin Jones, Sam & Sarah Kazlow, Madisson & Makenzie Laughery, Cade, Cody & Kirsten Miller, Kaitlin Rothbauer, Trevor Rowe, Cat Sabella, Ellee & Ethan Spearman, and Ashlyn Stembridge will be exhibiting their livestock projects at one or more of these major Stock Shows. Look for highlights on the blog after each show!

District Food Contests

The District Food Show and Food Challenge will be held February 8 at Texas A&M Commerce. Project meetings and locations should be announced soon! Entries will be due on for 4-H Connect no later than January 17.

Food Show rules are online http://d44-h.tamu.edu/district-events/food-show/ and

Food Challenge rules are http://d44-h.tamu.edu/district-events/food-challenge/

Rockwall County 4-H Council & PAL

Rockwall County 4-H Council will meet February 4 at 7:00 pm at the Extension Office.

If you are the President or Council Delegate for your club, it is important you are present.

Coinciding with County Council, a Parent & Leader (PAL) meeting will be held. All adults are encouraged to attend!

Photography Updates

Rockwall County 4-H members Michael Mershawn, Katie Marcantel, Ellee & Ethan Spearman recently competed in the District 4 4-H Digital Photography contest. Congratulations to Michael on his class winning entry in the Intermediate Farm & Ranch category!

Other results included:

Michael Mershawn – white ribbon – water

Katie Marcantel – white ribbon – farm and ranch

Ethan Spearman – white ribbon – farm and ranch

red ribbon – leading line
blue ribbon – water

Ellee Spearman – red ribbon – 4-H projects

white ribbon – farm and ranch
red ribbon – leading line
white ribbon – shadow white ribbon – silhouette

Horse Project Updates

Horse O’ Rama – March 7-9, 2014

Horse-O-Rama is the largest annual education equine event in Texas. Implemented by the Tarrant County Extension Horse Committee, horse enthusiasts of all levels come together for three incredible days of fun, education, competition and entertainment. The goal of Horse-O-Rama is to enhance the quality of life by developing life skills through the networking of various breeds, organizations, associations and interest groups. Horse-O-Rama encourages and teaches people to apply educational information using the horse as the foundation http://agrilife.org/urbantarrantag/events/agriculture-in-tarrant-county/

State Horse Show – The State Horse Show schedule and rule changes are attached. We will forward the new rulebook as it becomes available.

Rockwall Youth Fair

Rockwall Youth Fair is scheduled for March 26-29, 2014. Note: Livestock and clothing entries are due February 19, 2014.

For those who plan to exhibit a pen of market rabbits at the 2014 Rockwall Youth Fair,

you must have possession of your rabbits at least 30 days prior to show date. Validation will be February 25 at 6pm.
For those who plan to exhibit breeding animals of any species, you must have ownership on or before January 1.
A complete copy of the rule book is attached. An entry form is on the last page and may be replicated as many times as needed.
For those housing project animals at the RISD Ag. Science Center:
Remember, barn fees must be paid prior to bringing animals into the project barn. If you have animals currently housed at the project barn that will be staying on for the fall/ winter show season, remember new fees are due November 1.
NEW this year! All Rockwall Youth Fair exhibitors must complete the Quality Counts training and obtain the certification number prior to entering Rockwall Youth Fair.

Visit this website to complete the training and testing. http://agrilife.org/qualitycounts/

Have you registered on 4-H Connect yet? Hopefully by now you have attended at least one club meeting and registered on 4-H Connect. These are the steps you take to become a member of Rockwall County 4-H for the 2013-2014 4-H year. If you are having trouble with any of the above, please call the Extension Office at 972-204-7660 for help!

REMINDER! Rules for event registration: A late entry extension will ensue for a two-day time period starting at 12:01 AM immediately following the standard district deadline. This extension will only apply to district-level contests. Example: if the normal deadline is on Friday at midnight, late entry would open at 12:01 AM on Saturday morning and close at midnight on Sunday. For entries placed during this late time period, there will be an added late fee of $20 (in addition to the standard contest fee). No registration extensions will be granted beyond the late registration time period.

Volunteers Make the Difference

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Tue, 15 Oct 2013 17:58:00 +0000

Dear 4-H families,

We have started off the 4-H year with a super surge of families excited about what 4-H has to offer and the many opportunities that lie ahead. This means many people are interested in some of our strength programs and others are interested in starting new projects.

Please know that 4-H programming is successful because of volunteers. Volunteers like YOU. Yes you. This program is the success it is because of planning by volunteer adults and youth, because of leadership of adults and youth, because of interests of adults and youth.

If you are new to the program or have been involved for several years, but have not stepped up with the commitment to help or lead, please see this as your invitation to help. 4-H is only as successful as volunteers make it to be.

Volunteers take on different roles. Some of these are organizational leaders - club managers. Club managers oversee the club coordination and club work with other team members of volunteers and club officers. Club managers meet with the supervising Extension Agent for training, and receiving updates during the year. Club managers work together so the work load can be shared. Other volunteers include Project leaders

Project leaders are adult volunteers who have an interested in a certain area or have a child with a certain interest. The purpose of the 4-H Project Leader:

Provide structured learning experiences, guidance for 4-H members enrolled in the project.

Benefits of serving as a 4-H Project Leader:

•Gain and/or enhance knowledge and skills in the subject matter area.

•Be a significant part of the educational and developmental process for youth.

•Foster the development and growth of successful youth-adult partnerships.

•See the impact the 4-H and Youth Development Program has in the county.

•Experience personal growth from serving as a project leader.

Qualifications and Special Skills:

•Reside in the county.

•Registered as a direct volunteer for the county 4-H program, by completing a Texas 4-H Volunteer Application for the

current 4-H year.

•Passed a criminal background check through the Youth Protection Standards Program within the past three years.

•Participate in Volunteer Orientation.

•Value the development of positive life skills in youth.

•Value diversity among youth and other adults involved in the 4-H program, creating and maintaining a 4-H project

experience where all children feel welcome and opportunities are made available

I know we all want to help our young people develop into productive members of our society. And that is what 4-H does through the project work. 4-H is very family focused. This is one major area that we differ from most other programs. There may be times when the project leader works with the young people and allows the parent or guardian to watch as in vet science, but a main focus is the family learning together. Things discussed and taught during a subject matter training or clinic should be reinforced at home by parents when the young person is working on the project. For expample in the photography project a discussion of lighting may make a huge difference in the 4-Hers ability to take better pictures. As a parent you can help at home when pictures are being taken to think about the lighting and help you young person through the process.

Being a leader, is being one step ahead of the project group. You do not have to know all of the answers. We do have resources at the Extension office for many projects. On others there may be a cost factor.

Consider strongly being a volunteer leader in your club if you are not already. It is true that you only get out of the project and 4-H what you put into it. Don't sit on the sidelines and then wonder at the end of the year how you could have made a positive difference.

If you have questions, please do not hesitate to call. I realize that we have busy schedules. Help your child choose and make priorities in their life. I hope you choose to make your family a priority as you grow together.

District 4 4-H Calendar

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Tue, 08 Oct 2013 20:24:00 +0000

Reality in a Virtual World

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Tue, 08 Oct 2013 20:17:00 +0000

2014 Rockwall Youth Fair Rules

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Tue, 08 Oct 2013 18:45:00 +0000

Virtual Volunteer Workshops - All 4-H Parents, This is for You

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Tue, 08 Oct 2013 18:17:00 +0000

State Fair of Texas is Underway and Rockwall County 4-Hers are Showcasing Skills and Knowlege

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Mon, 07 Oct 2013 19:34:00 +0000

The State Fair of Texas is underway and several Rockwall County 4-Hers have already competed or are preparing to compete. Thus far the following have competed:
Cade Miller - Polled Hereford Progress Steer
Cody Miller - Shorthorn Progress Steer
Kirsten Miller - Simmental Progress Steer
Madisson Laughery - Shorthorn Progress Steer, and Breeding Shorthorn Heifer
Mackelvey Thorton - Shorthorn Progress Steer
McKenzie Laughery - Hereford Market Steer and Breeding Shorthorn Heifer
Ashlyn Stembridge - Market Goat and Market Lamb
Carson Glasscock - Market Lamb
Ellee Spearman - Breeding Shorthorn Heifer
Ethan Spearman - Breeding Shorthorn Heifer
Sam Kazlow - Market Broilers
Sarah Kazlow - Market Broilers

Still to compete are:
Olivia Born - Hereford and Polled Hereford Heifers
Josh Born - Hereford Heifers
Tanner Howey - Angus and Simmental Heifers
Kaitlin Rothbauer - Simmental Heifer

These young people also spend many weekends each month enhancing their skills at "Jackpot Shows" - one day events across the state. Congratulations to each one for using their time and talents in a productive way that will help them now and in the future as they make critical decisions, work with others in stressful situations, and for those market participants - provide a quality product for many consumers.

Fluffly cows cast light on beef Terri Queck-Matzie | Updated: 08/15/2013

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Thu, 22 Aug 2013 14:51:00 +0000

Matt Lautner
When photos of Matt Lautner’s prize show bull Texas Tornado appeared on a popular online forum Reddit, he had no idea it would create an Internet sensation. Nor did he have any indication an opportunity to open a window to the beef industry was coming his way.
Then someone commented on the “fluffy cows” — a term coined online — and the cyber world had a new mascot.
ABC News, the Associated Press, the Today show and CNN all took note and ran stories on the phenomenon. Texas Tornado went viral. A Facebook page, Fluffy Cows R Us, created by Lautner, compiled 37,000 “likes” in just weeks.
And Lautner seized the opportunity. “Now that we’ve got their attention, I think it’s a great opportunity to teach them about our industry,” says Lautner, who breeds show cattle near Adel, Iowa. “Every year, millions of Americans walk through the cattle barns at fairs and expos, and now, more than ever, I think they are going to stop and really take a look at the fluffy cows in the aisles. This is the perfect opportunity to talk about not just fluffy show cattle, but also beef and beef by-products.”
Lautner is by nature and by trade a cattle breeder and promoter. Lautner genetics are a common sight in show rings across the country, frequently winning top honors. And Lautner makes expert use of today’s communication tools to highlight their success. With sites like Reddit, Facebook, Twitter and a daily blog on his own website at his disposal, he utilizes digital communication to its full potential. “Promotion is key, in my business and the beef business in general.”
Lautner has been around beef since he was a kid. His dad started raising show cattle in the 1970s, and Matt started Matt Lautner Cattle in 2006. Three sales each year feature offspring from his 60 bulls, and he puts an emphasis on 4-H and FFA calves, selling around 75 per year. Last year Matt Lautner Cattle sold semen in 44 states.
He and his fiancé live in Adel, with 8-month-old Matilyn awaiting her turn in the show ring. “She may be the youngest one in there,” Lautner laughs, “but I can’t wait to get her started.”
Lautner is pleased to see not only the beef industry receive the worldwide web’s attention, but the show end of the industry as well. “It’s a long-held tradition in the beef business, and there are kids across the country who spend a lot of time working with these animals. It’s nice that these kids are finally getting some recognition for their hard work.”
Daily, the show-cattle photos appear on the Facebook page: fluffy cows and their handlers from all over the world. There are photos from show rings and show barns; photos of kids and adults caring for their animals and bonding with their animals. Facebook friends hail from Australia, Italy, Northern Ireland, England, Argentina, South Africa, as well as across the United States.
“The response has really been overwhelming,” Lautner says. “Really, I think people are falling in love with these fluffy cows. Many spend hours scrolling through the photos.”
But the image of cattle as pets (one news source called them large kittens) is not one everyone thinks is best for an industry that produces a major foodstuff. Lautner disagrees, using the forum as a food-production educational tool. He’s created graphics that show Texas Tornado with the cuts of meat and beef by-products, showing fluffy cow followers this is ultimately about food.
“The naysayers worry that people will somehow liken a fluffy cow to a teddy bear or a pet, and that’s why I’ve developed the graphics to visually remind them that these are livestock animals that nourish people,” he says. “It’s great for our kids to be reminded of this lesson, as well. Overall, I think the positives have far outweighed the negatives.”
This year’s fair and livestock show attire will likely feature Fluffy Cows R Us t-shirts, and the crowds may just be larger than normal, the stands packed with the curious as well as show ring regulars. Both the old faithful and newcomers may stop for a burger or steak on the way home. That’s what Lautner is hoping for, that the attention will lead to a positive beef image and industry growth.
Matt Lautner
“The Fluffy Cow page will hopefully keep fueling the love folks have for these cattle,” Lautner says. “I will keep posting photos, as well as educational beef factoids, to keep folks engaged while they are educated about our business. Hopefully, they think about us the next time there is something negative about beef in the news. We are trying to show the great side of the industry, and I hope the fluffy cow trend reflects that.”

Terri Queck-MatzieMatt Lautner seized the opportunity to make Fluffy Cows work for personal good as well as giving consumers an education by promoting a benefit auction at the height of the phenomenon’s popularity. Fluffy Cows jumped on board to support young Drew Shryock’s fight with cancer and Cowboy Up for a CURE. This Meat Cuts drawing by Hayes Martens (pictured) sold to a group of 56 donors for $14,000 and has been donated to the National Western Livestock Show in Denver. Lautner also uses the graphic to demonstrate the practical end of beef production. What a great opportunity for the agriculture industry and the ag youth programs as well. Don't let this opportunity pass you by. As many of you are preparing for the State Fair of Texas, the East Texas State Fair and other shows, be prepared to discuss all of the positive things you are learning from the project and also have talking points ready. Talking Points - Have three points that you want to share with visitors. Why do you do what you do? ( Different for everyone)Why is your product something a consumer would want? ( raised in healthy environment, fed quality feed, cared for with integrity to produce a quality product for the consumer)How do you apply what you learn through the project to everyday life. ( The people you compete against are also friends, potential friends. Judges are potential employers, or references for job applications. Judges can also give advice on career opportunities. People who learn from can provide more insight to career exploration in the ag industry, etc.

Preparation Information for Rockwall Youth Fair

noreply@blogger.com (Rockwall County 4-H News) — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 21:47:00 +0000

Dear membership with large 4-H livestock projects, (cattle, sheep, hogs, goats)

As you prepare for the Rockwall Youth Fair, there are a couple of things you will want to keep in mind.

· You will want to make sure that you and your animal feel secure in the surroundings. One method of doing this is to get your animal to other livestock shows so the nervousness wears off. There are a couple coming up in which you may want to participate.

· Feeding - Be prepared to feed through the show, not just to the show. You want your animals looking their best. Have enough feed that you can adjust the last few days leading up to the show. Plan ahead to have more than enough. It could make a big difference in the pay off at the end.

· Clipping in preparation for the Show. The Extension Office has a couple of small dual speed andis clippers available for checkout. (Clippers will be 5$ to checkout. Funds will be used to replace blades and oil) To do so you will need to call the office and get on the calendar. We have many 4-H projects and scheduling may become tight. They may be checked out for two days at a time. When finished they need to return to the office for the next pickup. Do not pass them along to another person. Todd will try to check the clippers each time to make sure they are in working order prior to being checked out. Clippers need to be cleaned and oiled properly before checking them back in to the office. If you have your own blades, feel free to use them as you are more comfortable with your own equipment.

· Clipping with Todd's assistance. If you need Todd to assist you in clipping he has set up spring break to begin prepping animals for the show. He has scheduling available until March 28th. Call as soon as possible to make arrangements to get on his calendar. Location may be flexible. One parent and the 4-Her will need to be on hand to learn the process. Everyone will do some part of the animal. Block out 2 hours per animal. Weekday afternoons may be preferable to Saturdays. No Sunday scheduling available. (Animals need to be clean and dried prior to Todd showing up to clip)

· Scheduling gets tight the week of the show. Todd's availability is very limited with no big pockets of time to clip. Clippers may or may not still be available.

· Know the show rules. Each show is different. You can locate the show rules at: http://www.orgsites.com/tx/rockwallyouthfair/ under Rules for Competition. Download them to your smart phone.

· Time of Show is only good for the first specie showing. Everything else hinges off of that. So you need to be prepared.

It is going to be AWESOME! We have great families participating. I hope that you can look back and say with an enthusiastic YES when I ask you if the family has grown together because of this experience. If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to call. Some we can answer at the Extension Office. Some may need to be directed to the Youth Fair Board. Please remember the Youth Fair Board is made up of volunteers who want to showcase Agriculture and youth. They are working their hardest to help you showcase your efforts. Thank them for that when you get the chance.