4-H Family News header 

 February 2017     
Macomb County 4-H News
Macomb County 4-H member to help lead Michigan's  2017 4-H AgInnovators Experience
Congratulations! The following 4-H teen leaders were nominated in their counties and have been selected to help lead Michigan's 2017 4-H Ag Innovators Experience: 
 
· Elizabeth Bennett (Macomb)
· Nathan Laurenz (Midland/Gratiot)
· Bobby Steely (Sanilac) 
 
The teens will attend training at the National 4-H Center in Washington, D.C., and then return to Michigan to train their peers on this year's Ag Innovators Experience activity. The activity, Soil CSI Challenge, is presented by the trained teen leaders and will reach over 1,000 Michigan 4-H youth this spring and summer.

 
Youth Gardening Program starts February 9th
 
This youth gardening program by Macomb County MSU Extension
4-H, using Junior Master Gardener curriculum, will be held on Thursdays, February 9-April 13, 2017 from 3:45-5 p.m. at the Metropolitan Church of the Nazarene, 18945 Frazho Road, Roseville. The program is for all youth in grades 3-5. No garden is required!  

The cost for the series is $30 per person. Please make checks out to MSU Extension.  
For more information or to register, contact Maureen Prisbe at
586-469-6440 or
[email protected]. 
 
 
4-H Youth Council Make & Take Workshop

The Macomb County 4-H Youth Council is planning a  4-H Make and Take craft workshop . The event is  from 1-3 p.m. on March 11, 2017 at Macomb County MSU Extension, 21885 Dunham Road, Suite 12,  Clinton Township. The cost will vary by project.

Participants of all ages are welcome. Membership in 4-H is not required. Please R.S.V.P. to 
[email protected] .


4-H Horse Tack Sale - March 4th

Ray's Riding Rascals 4-H Club's 37th Annual  4-H Horse Tack Sale is on March 4, 2017 at the Berville Lions Field Hall, 13651 Hough Road, Allenton from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Buy or sell anything for horse or rider. The admission cost is $3 per person. Youth ages 12 and under are free. The event is open to the public. 

Consignment check in is Friday, March 3rd from 6-8 p.m. or Saturday, March 4th from 8-9 a.m. Consignment fees 
are $2 per page (15 items or less). Ray's Riding Rascals 4-H Club receives 15% commission on sold items only. There is a secured and lit area for horse trailers, buggies, carts, etc. Call Michelle at 248-425-3174 for more information.


4-H Horse Program Committee  meeting, show dates and ad book information
Meeting dates: The Macomb County 4-H Horse Program Committee announced its 2017 meeting and show dates. All meetings listed will be held from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. in the Activities Building at Camp Rotary, 20505 29 Mile Road, Ray Township. Show information will be announced as it becomes available.
 
Macomb County 4-H Horse Program Committee meetings are:
February 27, 2017 - Macomb County 4-H Horse Program Committee
March 27, 2017 - Macomb County 4-H Horse Program Committee
April 24, 2017 - Macomb County 4-H Horse Program Committee
May 22, 2017 - Macomb County 4-H Horse Program Committee
June 27, 2017 - Horse Program Michigan State Meeting
September 25, 2017 - Macomb County 4-H Horse Program Committee Meeting
October 23, 2017 - Macomb County 4-H Horse Program Committee Meeting
 
The Macomb County 4-H horse show dates for 2017 are :
May 27, 2017 - Light Horse at Camp Rotary
June 3, 2017 -  Mini/Draft at Camp Rotary
June 10, 2017 - Mini/Draft at Camp Rotary
June 17, 2017 -  Light Horse (Double Judge) at Camp Rotary
June 24, 2017 - Light Horse at Camp Rotary
July 8, 2017 - Mini/Draft at Camp Rotary
August 5, 2017 - Warm & Sunny Show
 
Ad Book materials are now online at http://msue.macombgov.org/MSUE-4H-Programs-Animals-Horses:

Submit fair theme ideas by February 10th
We want to hear from you! Submit your ideas for the 2017 4-H fair theme to [email protected]   by 4 p.m. on February 10, 2017. A voting link will be emailed to Macomb County 4-H families. Members and volunteers will have until February 24, 2017 to vote for their favorite theme suggestion. The winning theme will be announced after the poll closes.
Macomb County 4-H Staff

Richard Wooten
District 11 Coordinator
 
4-H Extension Educator
 
4-H Mentor Program  
Coordinator
  
4-H Program Coordinator
  
Program Coordinator 
4-H Tech Wizards
 
4-H Program Coordinator 

Kea Norrell-Aitch
 
4-H Extension Educator
 
Computer Maintenance Clerk  
 
Email:
 
Web Site:
 
Locations:
MSU Extension
21885 Dunham Road, Ste. 12
Clinton Township, MI 48036
Phone: (586) 469-6431
 
MSU Extension
11370 Hupp
Warren, MI 48089
Phone: (586) 469-7614
Join Our List
4-H Youth Council meeting schedule
The Macomb County 4-H Youth Council has scheduled the following meetings at Camp Rotary, 20505 29 Mile Road, Ray Township:
 
Thursday, May 11 at 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 13 at 6:30 p.m.
 
Macomb County 4-H Youth Council meetings are at 6:30 p.m. at Camp Rotary, 20505 29 Mile Road, Ray Township. Macomb County 4-H members, volunteers and families are encouraged to attend. Come and share your ideas and find out what the Council is planning for your club and community! 


Macomb County 4-H GoPro!
Macomb County 4-H has purchased a GoPro for our 4-H club members to use. The camera can be borrowed by any 4-H member to use during their projects. We hope to capture footage of all sorts, from dog agility to archery and everything in-between. Want to see a lamb's point of view in the barn? Or attach it to your saddle when riding a horse? Experiment with different points of view and capture fun footage of you and your 4-H project. For more information, contact Seth Martin at  (586) 783-8163.


Family Farm & Home 4-H/FFA Program
Did you know? Family Farm & Home has a 4-H/FFA program. Sign up and save on supplies for 
your  4-H projects! To sign up for the program, fill out the program enrollment form and return it to 
Family Farm & Home, Attn: Marketing, 900 Third Street, Suite 302, Muskegon, MI 49440. For 
more information, email [email protected] or contact your local Family Farm & Home store.


Club financial forms in fillable format
Some of the forms clubs commonly use are now in fillable format:
 
1) Michigan 4-H Treasurer's Report
  http://msue.anr.msu.edu/resources/4_h_treasurers_report 
 
2) Annual 4-H Financial Summary Report 
http://msue.anr.msu.edu/.../annual_4_h_financial_summary_report  
 
3) County 4-H Fundraiser Application 
  http://msue.anr.msu.edu/.../county_4_h_fund_raiser_application 
 


Financial accountability presentation
The following presentation contains helpful information about handling club finances:



Member year pins available
There are still some (free 4-H) member year pins available at Macomb County MSU Extension. Contact Macomb County MSU Extension at  [email protected]  or 586-469-6431 to request them before they're gone. Currently available are 9th year (4), 11th year (19), 12th year (8), 13th year (22), 14th year (6). Member year pins may also be purchased through  www.4-hmall.org .


Mentoring: Finding a perfect match
The 4-H youth mentoring program, in honor of national mentoring month, wanted to highlight a match that has formed a strong connection over the past year. Madison started as a volunteer with the 4-H Youth Mentor Program in February of 2016. After a detailed search for the right mentee, the program found Nikki. At the beginning the match started off a bit rocky but, with Madison's persistence and Nikki's ability to be open with her mentor, the match turned into a "perfect match".

When asked about the past year with Nikki, Madison stated, "Overall, I had a great experience. She definitely makes my life interesting. There have been a couple of times where she sees what she can get away with. But, I redirect her and remind her what my role as a mentor is. I know this will be a friendship I will keep forever. I look at her as my little sister. I have helped her step out of her confront zone within reason and guided her through situations so she could see the different side of things. I see so much potential in her and she is such a caring girl. Her home life is not ideal for her, but she makes it work. She is super supportive of me, and I am always super supportive of her. We have a strong bond of trust. Also, I love her family! They have taken me in as their own. I could write you a book on my experience with her. Thanks for allowing me to have this opportunity."

Thank you Madison for your time and dedication as a mentor. We wouldn't be able to have this program without strong volunteers like you.

If you are interested in finding out more information about the 4-H youth mentoring program please contact Jeran Culina, 4-H Mentoring Coordinator, at 586-469-5979 or  [email protected]

Show Me the Money Day - February 4
MSU Extension is hosting Show Me the Money Day on February 4, 2017 at the Max Thompson Family Resource Center, 11370 Hupp Ave., Warren. This event will offer financial workshops focused on college planning, homeowner preparedness, credit counseling and food budgeting. 4-H will be onsite with fun crafts for children. Attendees will also connect with free income tax assistance and be offered low-cost banking products. Fifth Third Bank, Department of Financial Services, Eatra Credit Union, Macomb Community Action and other vendors will be present.
 
Sign in at 9:30 a.m. The program runs from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Lunch will be provided, and there will be raffles and giveaways. The event is free to adults and children, but preregistration is required. The deadline to register is Feb.1.
 
To find out more information about Show Me the Money Day or to register for this event, visit  https://events.anr.msu.edu/MoneyM/  or www.ShowMeTheMoneyDay.org


Promotional materials require logos and disclaimer
Event flyers and other promotional materials for Macomb County 4-H club, committee and county-level events require MSU helmet, MSU Extension, 4-H, Macomb County and Make Macomb Your Home logos. While the "4-H Grows Here" campaign is active, the 4-H Grows Here logo may be used instead of the traditional 4-H logo. Don't forget that Macomb County MSU Extension can help 4-H clubs promote their events and fundraisers. Contact the Macomb County 4-H office  for details!







MSU   is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. The 4-H Name and Emblem are protected by code 18 USC 707.

Other Local News & Events
Armada Fair animal tagging and youth registration dates
Feburary 5: Beef Tagging
Beef tagging is scheduled for February 5, 2017 from noon-2 p.m. at the Armada Fairgrounds.
 
June
Armada Fair registration for Youth Organizations takes place in June. Details will be announced.
 
June 4: Swine, Lamb & Goat Tagging
Swine, Lamb and Goat Tagging is the 1st Sunday in June from 10 a.m.-Noon at the Armada Fairgrounds
 
July 16: Poultry & Rabbit Tagging
Poultry and Rabbit Tagging is the 3rd Sunday in July from 10 a.m.-Noon at the Armada Fairgrounds
 
For more information, go to http://armadafair.org or call the Armada Fair Office at (586) 784-5488. 


Macomb County Master Gardener Association offers classes
To register or for more information about the following programs, contact the Macomb County Master Gardener Association at  [email protected] .
 
Michigan Invasive Species - Wednesday, February 15, 2017 
Join us while Advanced Master Gardener, David Newlin tells us about the plants and critters that have hitched a ride on our imports over the decades and how they have affected natural resources and ultimately our lives. Class meets from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Mt. Clemens Library, 150 Cass Ave., Mt. Clemens. Free to MCMGA Members +1 guest. All others pay $5.
 
Flowering Vines to Love (and Avoid) - March 30, 2017
Advanced Master Gardener, Cheryl English will tell us about a generally overlooked group of plants, flowering vines - from demure species Clematis, to gigantic Wisteria - can provide an added dimension to your garden - a vertical dimension. Learn basics and specifics about plant selection, care and culture to succeed with this rewarding range of plants, as well as help in identifying and avoiding proven and potential thugs. 6:30-7:30 P.M. at the Mt. Clemens Library, 150 Cass Avenue, Mt. Clemens. Cheryl is also the owner of Black Cat Pottery, and will have a display of her wares for sale before and after the presentation. $5.00 to MCMGA Members +2 guests. $10.00 to all others.
 
Orchid Basics - Tuesday, April 11, 2017
Dale Garden, former President of the Michigan Orchid Society and an Orchid grower for over 35 years will share with us what it takes to grow and flower orchids such as temperatures, humidity and air flow, feeding, and much, much more. Tuesday, April 11, 6:30-7:30 P.M. at the Mt. Clemens Library, 150 Cass Ave., Mt. Clemens. Free to MCMGA Members +1 guest. $5.00 to all others. MCMGA QUARTERLY MEETING WILL FOLLOW THE CLASS.
 
Fun with Lavender - Monday, May 15, 2017 
Advanced Master Gardener Karen Burke is back to show us all of the wonderful things that we can do with our Lavender. So many things to use it with: cooking, beverage infusion, and many boutique and craft projects. You can learn them all. Monday, May 15, 6:30-7:30 P.M. at the Mt. Clemens Library, 150 Cass Avenue, Mt. Clemens. Free to MCMGA Members +1 guest. $5.00 to all others.
 
Bats of Michigan, Bat Conservation Organization - Wednesday, July 12, 2017
Learn about bats in your own back yard. Often misunderstood or overlooked, bats play a key role in Michigan's environment and economy. During this live animal program you will learn why bats are important to the state, where Michigan bat species are located, and how to identify them. Learn about threats and what we all need to do to protect bats. This is a learning opportunity for all ages. Class meets from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Mt. Clemens Library, 150 Cass Ave., Mt. Clemens. $5 each for MCMGA members + 2 guests. All others pay $10 each. An MCMGA quarterly meeting will follow.


Children's Gardens & Learning Activities - February 9
MSU Extension is offering the program "Children's Gardens & Learning Activities" on February 9,       from 6:30 - 9 p.m., at Macomb County MSU Extension, 21885 Dunham Rd., Clinton Township.         Mary Gerstenberger, Consumer Horticulture Coordinator, and Master Gardener Anne Crotser will     
share ideas on various types of children's gardens, working with children in the garden, and will     provide hands-on learning activities. Resource materials will be provided. This program is appropriate 
for elementary teachers, home schooling parents, youth workers and anyone working with children in 
the garden. The program cost is $5 per person and is payable at the door. Please register in advance 
by calling 586-469-6440.


Master Gardener Volunteer Training Program offered
A Master Gardener Volunteer Training Program will be held at the MSU Extension in Clinton Township beginning Monday, March 6, 2017, from 6-10 p.m. The cost is $300 per person. Some scholarships are available. Registration and scholarship information/ap are all done online at: www.mg.msue.msu.edu Choose the "Become and Extension Master Gardener Volunteer" selection for the information, location details, and registration/scholarship applications. Deadline to register when paying by check is February 20. Deadline to register when paying by credit card is February 27.


Load and Go Show Pig and Club Lamb Sale
The Load and Go Show Pig and Club Lamb Sale is April 8, 2017 from 12-6 p.m. at 10455 E. Coldwater Road, Davison.  The four producers that have put together this sale have been life-long 4-H members and supporters and livestock producers. Their goal is to provide 4-H and FFA members with quality animals that will do well in the show ring. The animals being sold will all have been born and raised on the producers' farms and be vaccinated and healthy. Everything will be pre-priced on the day of sale. Contact Jennifer Johnston at 810-922-5950 or any of the producers listed on the flyer for more information.


Farm offers discount on chicks and poults for show
Macomb County 4-H Poultry Project Members: Walnut Hill Farm in Shelby Township is offering a 25 percent discount until  March 31  on chicks and poults for the fair.  Breeds will include Serama, Silver Spangled Appenzeller Spitzhauben, Ayam Cemani, and Gold Wheaten Sulmtaler.  Turkeys include Narragansett, Standard Bronze, Oregon Gray, Dark Gray and our own "meat line" which will grow and finish comparably to commercial Bronze or White, just a little more slowly, with better vigor, and with a variety of colors. Very limited numbers of each breed are available and will vary by hatch, buyer selects from available stock.  Buyers will need to bring evidence of club and poultry project membership to receive discount. All chicks and poults will be incubated, hatched and brooded in isolation up to one week of age for biosecurity. No minimum order. Incubation and hatching services also available. Contact  [email protected]  for more information.  


Programs at MSU Tollgate
MSU has two upcoming programs at Tollgate Farm, 28115 Meadowbrook Road, Novi: 

Maple Tapping and Pancake Feast!
A Maple Tapping and Pancake Feasts will take place at Tollgate Farm in Novi on Saturday, March 11th and Sunday, March 12th. Attend 9 a.m.-Noon or Noon-3 p.m. All ages are welcome.
 
Join in for a fun, hands-on maple tapping program with a wagon ride, the history of sugaring, a tour of the sugar shack, and a robust pancake meal with real maple syrup.  Preregistration is required at

Spring Break Farm Camp 
Come and enjoy spring on the farm with a week of learning adventures on  160 acres of field and forest.  Make new friends and enjoy fun
farm-based learning together! Spring Break Farm Camp is April 3-7, 2017 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and is for children ages 6-11. The cost is $310 per person. Aftercare is offered from 4-6 for $10 per hour.

Participants will learn to care for baby goats, hatch chicks, help with morning animal chores, take afternoon hikes in the woods, harvest early produce for nutritious Garden Kitchen snacks, engage in a creative week-long STEM project, and experience lots of real science and hands-on fun!

Low child to adult ratios make this camp fill quickly, so register early,  online at https://events.anr.msu.edu/event.cfm?eventID=D56D6D54B56725D6.
Statewide 4-H News
Will You Put the "U" in the Challenge U 4-H FunFest? 
The 2017 Challenge U 4-H FunFest is another special workshop for younger (aged 9 to 13) Michigan 4-H'ers. At this event, participants will:
  • Spend two action-packed days - in sessions they choose, led by experts - learning the secrets of healthy living and food science. The hands-on sessions from which to choose will include:
    • What to eat and when to increase energy
    • Becoming a junior chef
    • Relaxation tips and tricks
    • Indoor and outdoor cooking
    • Healthy money habits
    • Food preservation
    • Dancing and more.
Through such 4-H projects, young people both enjoy hands-on activities and develop life skills. For example, by allowing4-H'ers to choose the sessions in which they want to participate, they learn decision-making skills and independence. At the 2017 Challenge U 4-H FunFest, youth will also learn communication, cooperation and teamwork. All in all, participants learn to make "the best (themselves) better."
  • Enjoy some fun in the great outdoors
  • Have an overnight workshop experience
  • Meet other 4-H'ers from around the state
Who
Youth 9 to 13 years old as of January 1, 2017 and chaperones
 
When
March 11 to 12, 2017 (begins 9:30 to 10:30 Saturday morning and ends at 11:30 Sunday morning,before lunch)

Where
Kettunen Center in Tustin
 
How
The Challenge U 4-H FunFest schedule and registration is available on the web. The registration fee ($70 for 4-Hmembers and volunteers or $119 for non4-H members and volunteers) includes overnight housing, meals and all session supplies.
 
If you need more details than are available on the registration site above, you can obtain additional information from:

Michigan 4-H Robotics Workshop - March 18-19
The Michigan 4-H Robotics Workshop is March 18-19, 2017 at Kettunen Center in Tustin. The workshop is for 4-H members age 13-19 (as of January 1) and volunteers interested in robotics. Sign up for a specific track: LEGO Mindstorms EV3, VEX Robotics, Underwater ROVs, Unmanned Aerial Systems, Younger 4-Hers: Robotics & STEAM, and Junk Drawer Robotics. The cost for 4-H members and volunteers is $75 per person. All others pay $130 each. The registration fee includes meals, lodging and resources. The registration deadline is February 24, 2017. For more information or to register, go to https://events.anr.msu.edu/4HRobotics2017/ . 


Beef, Sheep, Swine Teen and Adult Leaders Workshop
The 4-H Beef, Sheep & Swine Workshop is  February 18-19, 2017 at Kettunen Center in Tustin. The workshop is for youth who are ages  13 and older and adult leaders who are interested in learning more about beef, sheep and/or swine. 4-H members and volunteers pay $58 per person. Non-members pay $105 per person. The fee includes meals, lodging, and resources. Register online at  http://events.anr.msu.edu/4HBeefSheepSwineandVetScience/ by February 5th.

 
Veterinary Science Teen and Adult Leaders workshop
Dive into veterinary science with veterinarians and MSU veterinary students at the Veterinary Science Teen and Adult Leaders Workshop. The workshop is February 17-18, 2017 at Kettunen Center in Tustin. The workshop is for youth ages 13 and older and adult leaders interested in learning more about veterinary science. 4-H members and adult leaders pay $58 per person. All others pay $105 each. The registration fee covers meals, lodging and resources. Register online at  http://msue.anr.msu.edu/events/4-h_veterinary_science_teen_and_adult_leaders_workshop by February 5th.


Upcoming 4-H Horse & Pony Events
There are several exciting events coming up this spring for those in the 4-H Horse & Pony project areas. Contact Taylor Fabus at  [email protected]  or 517-353-1748 for more information about any of the following programs:
 
Teen & Adult 4-H Horse Leaders' Conference, February 25
MSU's campus, East Lansing, MI
Registration for this event is limited!
4-H members age 12-19 AND adult volunteers are welcomed. Topics include horse judging, equine first aid, dissection, veterinary care, equine nutrition, and information to assist leaders in youth development, leadership skills for youth, and much more. Interactive classroom sessions in Anthony Hall will be followed by hands-on activities at the MSU Horse Teaching & Research Center.
Full event details & registration forms:  http://www.ans.msu.edu/extension/horse_youth_programs
 
4-H & FFA State Horse Judging Contest, Sunday March 26th 
MSU Pavilion, East Lansing, MI
Full class list, rules, registration and event details available at:  http://www.ans.msu.edu/extension/horse_youth_programs  
 
Norma Agnew Memorial 4-H Hairy Horse Show/Clinic, April 8
MSU Pavilion, East Lansing, MI
Space will be limited for this event, only 100 stalls available. Judges will wear microphones and share critiques with exhibitors to help improve their performance.  Audience members (free) can hear feedback as well!
 
Event details and showbill available at  http://www.ans.msu.edu/extension/horse_youth_programs.
 
 
4-H Exploration Days - Save the Date
4-H Exploration Days is June 21-23, 2017 at Michigan State University in East Lansing. Registration begins March 14, 2017 at your local county Extension office. Forms received earlier will be entered in the order they are received.
 
Best described as a "mini-college experience" for youth who are 4-H ages 11-19, the event is an opportunity for youth to attend fun, educational sessions of their choosing, stay in campus housing (youth are housed by county), enjoy activities and entertainment and make new friends.
 
In Macomb County, youth can pick one roommate to join them on this experience, invite a friend and join the thousands of other youth from across the state in one of the year's most anticipated events.
 
The cost for this year's event is $165 per youth, plus any session fees that may apply. Non-members pay an additional $10 participation fee. A mandatory orientation will be held at the county Extension office before the event.
 
Additional information will be available online by March 1st.
 
 
4-H Archery SPIN Club
Participants in this six-week program will learn the fundamentals of target archery and range safety. Youth will also design their own archery game and learn about local archery venues, clubs, and competitions where they can showcase their skills. This program will be held from 6:30 - 8:30 Mondays, February 13 - March 20, 2017 at the Springfield Oaks Activity Center in Davisburg. The cost for this program is $20 for current 4-H Members and $30 for non 4-H members. Youth must be 12 by January 1, 2017. To register for the program visit: https://events.anr.msu.edu/archeryspin/
Youth must register as a 4-H member at https://mi.4honline.com prior to the program start date to participate. For more information, contact Mary Blumka at 248-858-0890 or [email protected].
 
 
4-H Backpack to Adventure: Youth Leaders in a Global World Curriculum Training
MSUE Staff, Youth Professionals, 4-H Volunteers and Teens (13+) are invited to participate in a 4-H Backpack to Adventure: Youth Leaders in a Global World workshop February 21, 2017 (9:30 a.m. Registration/10 a.m.-3 p.m. Program) at Kent County MSU Extension, 775 Ball Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.
 
4-H Backpack to Adventure: Youth Leaders in a Global World  is a  Michigan curriculum to help young people aged 9-19 understand what it means to be a leader in a globalized, interconnected and rapidly changing world. At this workshop, participants will have the opportunity to explore five competencies for youth leaders in a global world: character, citizenship, creativity, communication and culture. Experience the excitement of learning about many countries and cultures through food, fun and fellowship with other 4-H adult and teen volunteer leaders. MSUE Staff are already registered and individuals from Colorado will be joining in to learn and network with Michigan participants!  You'll have a great time and learn a lot!
 
The  $30.00 per person fee includes curriculum ($60.00 value!), door prizes and lunch. Register by February 14, 2017. To register or for more information, contact Jan Brin at 269-673-0370 ext. 2555 or [email protected].

 
Michigan 4-H Night with the Griffins
4-H families are invited to attend Michigan 4-H Night with the Grand Rapids Griffins on February 18, 2017 at 7.p.m. at the Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids. Come at 6 p.m. to visit 4-H activity booths and enter a drawing to win a Zamboni ride for the March 17th game. Go to griffinshockey.com/promocode and enter the promo code "MI4H" to purchase discounted tickets. Tickets are $14 (upper level), $18 (lower level) and $22 (center ice). For more information, call Tarin Minkel at 231-592-0795.


4-H/FFA Beef Blast - February 18th
Beef Blast is Saturday, February 18, 2017 at 10 a.m. at the Brown City Elevator 4185 Main Street in Brown City. Participants will gain  information regarding nutrition, feeding and ration formulation, learn  how the rumen animal's digestive system works, and find out what is new for 2017!  Lunch will be served to participants!  
This is part of the 4-H and FFA Thumb Jackpot Beef Education Program. For more information about the program,  contact Jenny McKay at (810) 694-0561 or  [email protected]  or Heather Middleton  at (989) 672-3870 or  [email protected] . Please R.S.V.P. to Heather Middleton, Extension Coordinator,  [email protected]   or (989) 672-3870, by Wednesday, February 15, 2017.


4-H Financial Manual Correction
Due to clarification related to sales tax and market animal auctions, a correction needs to be made to the 4-H Financial Manuals.
 
Commission from livestock auctions is NOT taxable.
When a 4-H group holds a livestock auction or animal sale, sales tax does not need to be collected and remitted if the purpose of the sale is for agricultural purposes (i.e. breeding, meat or milk production, etc.).  This would include any commission the 4-H group receives as a portion of the sale.  Any re-sale of the animal would be non-taxable as well as long as the agricultural purpose was established.
 
This information is found on the following pages/sections:
  • Page 26 of the 4-H Financial Manual for Staff, fourth row in the chart
  • Page 25 of the 4-H Financial Manual for Volunteers, third row in the chart
  • Page 29 of the 4-H Financial Manual for Volunteers, first bullet in Part Two "Taxable Sales Income"
  • Page 24,  of the 4-H Financial Manual for Treasurers, fourth row in the chart
  • Page 30 of the 4-H Financial Manual for Treasurers, first bullet in Part Two, "Taxable Sales Income"
Please cross off the lines that state that commission from a livestock or animal auction sale is taxable.  
 
Please also print out this message and place it in your copy of the manuals so you have the accurate information in an easy to find location.
 
Corrections will be placed as an electronic letter on the Michigan 4-H website where the 4-H Financial Manuals are available for PDF download.  MSU Extension is  also working on a process to include a copy of the corrections letter in versions of the manuals that have not been purchased yet at the MSU Extension bookstore.  Please note that the books may appear unavailable for purchase through the bookstore until the process is complete. 

 
Resources for animal exhibition
It is that time of the year to be planning ahead for 4-H animal projects! Below are resources that may be helpful in preparing for 2016 events.
  • The 2017 Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) Animal Industry Division Exhibition Requirements were released this past week at the Michigan Association of Fairs & Exhibitions Annual Convention.  The requirements are attached as well as can be found online at http://www.michigan.gov/mdard/0,4610,7-125-1571_7075---,00.html
  • As a reminder, according to Public Act 466 of the Animal Industry Act official identification for exhibition swine is required by state law. The purpose of official identification is to help the state track swine if a disease outbreak occurs. This includes all swine being shown at exhibitions, including county fairs, jackpot shows, birthing exhibits and other events. Official identification is imprinted with a nationally unique official animal identification number and bears the official U.S. shield. Helpful resources are available online MSUE swine exhibition page: http://msue.anr.msu.edu/program/info/exhibition_swine. If you did not get your tags already from MDARD, as a reminder, MDARD will again be providing NUES tags to fairs free of charge in 2017.
  • Recommendations for cleaning and disinfection should be tailored to the specific situation. All surfaces should be cleaned thoroughly to remove organic matter before disinfection. A 1:32 dilution of household bleach (1/2 cup of bleach for each gallon of water) is needed for basic disinfection. In regards to basic education efforts, you can teach youth about the importance of biosecurity through the Animal Science Anywhere lessons.
Statewide 4-H News
Youth for the Quality Care of Animals
The National Pork Board is excited to announce the transition of the Youth Pork Quality Assurance 
Plus (YPQA) to the new Youth for the Quality Care of Animals (YQCA).

Within the past few years, educators and livestock industry professionals have noticed NPB's success
 with the YPQA program and determined the need for a multi-specie (beef, dairy, goat, poultry, rabbit, 
sheep and swine), science-based educational program, offering access to every youth exhibitor ages 
8 to 21, nationally. Annually, youth food animal producers raise thousands of food animals that 
contribute to the U.S. food supply. This contribution measures in the millions of pounds of consumable 
food animal products. Understanding how to produce a safe wholesome food animal product can only 
come from a comprehensive educational program focused on proper care and welfare of food animals. 
So a group of educators and livestock industry professionals have been working on developing this 
program to meet the needs for a multi-species program.
 
YQCA will provide a common framework for youth food animal quality assurance programs that will 
enhance the educational experience of youth, improve the care of food animals and provide a higher 
level of food safety to consumers. This program will embrace the founding principles of food safety 
that all quality assurance programs cover, with added information addressing animal welfare, such
As daily health observations, proper use of medications, and establishing a valid Veterinary Client 
Patient Relationship (VCPR), to mention a few. Those principal topic areas are similar across the 
species covered in the YQCA curriculum.
 
The YQCA program is set up for any youth in the U.S. to have access to the online program and gain 
their certification. States can choose to implement YQCA on a statewide basis where additional 
requirements can be added and where an in-person training option can be offered. The national YQCA 
program will launch March 2017. Statewide implementations may also launch in March or at the time 
of the state's choosing. The first show to require YQCA certification will be World Pork Expo this 
coming June 2017. Livestock shows held on or after June 2017 can make completion of the YQCA 
program mandatory for their exhibitors.

The Goals of YQCA:
  1. Ensure safety and well-being of animals produced by youth for showing and for 4-H 
    and FFA 
    projects.
  2. Ensure safe food supply to consumers.
  3. Enhance the future of livestock industry by educating youth on these very important issues 
    so they can becomemore informed producers, consumers and/or employees in the agriculture 
    and food industry.
  4. Maximize the limited development time and budgets of state and national youth program leaders 
    to provide aneffective quality assurance program.
Offer livestock shows a valid, national quality assurance certification for youth livestock exhibitors.

Please note, YPQA will no longer be administering by the end of 2017. The National Pork Board will fully be utilizing the YQCA program as the youth quality assurance program. Those who are not expired are still certified and will not need to earn YQCA certification until their expiration.

If you have more questions, you can visit the YQCA website at  http://yqca.org 
or email sales@ yqca.org.


AgDiscovery 2017
Attention Ag Youth Leaders & Science Teachers: AgDiscovery is a two-week residential outreach program sponsored by different United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs for high school students in partnership with selected universities. AgDiscovery is a unique opportunity for students to gain a first-hand look at the many career paths open to them in agriculture. The program allows students to live on a college campus and learn about different agriculture careers from university professors, scientists, and other professionals who work for the U.S. Government in a variety of fields.
 
The AgDiscovery program in Iowa is a partnership with Iowa State University (ISU) and sponsored by the following Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) programs: the National Veterinary Services Laboratories, the Center for Veterinary Biologics, and the Center for Epidemiology and Animal Health of Veterinary Services, International Services, Wildlife Services, and Investigative and Enforcement Services.
 
The focus of the ISU-AgDiscovery program is to demonstrate the interconnection between Veterinary Medicine, Animal Science, Laboratory Technology and Diagnostics and Wildlife Biology and Conservation. The students gain knowledge and experience through lectures and demonstrations, hands-on activities, field trips, team building activities and diversity workshops. Students who have completed a general biology or animal science course will benefit the most from the program activities.
 
The 2017 ISU AgDiscovery (July 16 - 29, 2017) will host 16 students from multiple states, ages 15-17.  Students will perform a variety of laboratory activities such as bacterial culture, animal necropsies, egg candling, viral inoculations and diagnostic testing at the USDA National Centers for Animal Health.  They will be introduced to several veterinary disciplines such as hematology, parasitology, immunology, radiology, anatomy and pathology by performing hands-on activities at the ISU College of Veterinary Medicine. The students will visit a variety of private and university farms, zoological facilities, animal shelters, wildlife conservation areas and research facilities. They will also participate in a number of cultural awareness and team building activities. Every activity is being planned to enhance the student's learning experience and provide countless hands-on opportunities which will be crucial to the student's enjoyment of the program.
 
Students selected for the 2017 AgDiscovery summer session will pay only the cost of their transportation to get from their home to the college campus for the start of the session and back again at the end of the session.  The cost of tuition, room and board, and lab supplies for the two-week program will be covered by various programs within APHIS.
 
To apply for the ISU AgDiscovery the students must be at least 15 and no older than 17 as of May 31, 2017 or reach your 18th birthday before the start of the program or at any time during the program dates.  See the current AgDiscovery website for age requirements on the other programs. Students can only apply for one program this year.  Applicants will be notified on or before May 8, 2017 if they have been selected for one of the 22 AgDiscovery programs this summer. If you have questions about the AgDiscovery program, please call APHIS at 301-851-4199 or send an email to [email protected].


2017 Clean Tech Competition: Creating a Greener Future
The Clean Tech Competition is an international research and design challenge for 15-18 year old pre-university students. This is a prestigious educational opportunity for students across the world that challenges students to be innovative while encouraging their passion for the sciences.
 
Competition Information: Each year, the Clean Tech Competition encourages scientific understanding of real-world issues and the integration of environmentally responsible energy sources. This year focuses on buildings, materials, efficiency, and indoor environmental quality, among other available topics.
  • Teams consist of 1-3 students, are assisted by a Team Leader (i.e. parent, teacher, or mentor), to develop a written proposal.
  • There is no entry fee.
  • Registration is open!
  • First Round consists of written Paper Submissions
  • 10 Finalist Teams are selected, given a $200 stipend and matched with a Mentor to help them prepare aPrototype and presentation for the Finalist Event.
  • Finalists compete for the $10,000 grand prize and 'Continued Mentorship'
  • Official Competition website www.cleantechcompetition.org
2016 saw the largest competition ever and Clean Tech continues to grow! There were 392 teams from 19 different countries participated. Along with the 19 countries, the final round had four different nations represented and competing for first prize! And, we want students from Michigan 4-H in the Clean Tech Competition this year!
 
If you have any questions regarding the competition details, visit www.cleantechcompetition.org or contact Frank DiGiovanni, Competition Administrator, at 516-764-0045 or [email protected]


Better Brains for Babies Webinar
Better Brains for Babies invites you to participate in a spring webinar, Shifting the Paradigm: Preventing and Addressing Childhood Adversity at the Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Levels
Tuesday, May 3 from 1-2 p.m. EST.
 
Early life traumatic stress, such as childhood abuse, neglect, and serious dysfunction are common, interrelated exposures that are associated with multiple risk behaviors and adverse health outcomes starting in adolescence, going into adulthood. For over 20 years, data from the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study, an epidemiological study, has demonstrated the relationship between these childhood traumatic stressors with negative health sequelae throughout the lifespan.  The aim of this session is to provide an overview of the ACE Study findings and present a theoretical framework for the prevention of childhood traumatic stress at the primary, secondary and tertiary levels, as well as present current efforts that apply the framework.
 
In this session, you will learn about:
  • The occurrence of childhood toxic stress from epidemiologic data collected among adults.
  • The social, behavioral, and health outcomes associated with childhood toxic stress across the lifespan.
  • Research documenting the physiological and biological mechanism through which childhood toxic stress can disrupt early brain and neurodevelopment.
  • The intergenerational transmission of childhood toxic stress and the need for three-level prevention strategies.
Presenter:
Our presenter is Shanta R. Dube, PhD, MPH, Associate Professor, Georgia State University, School of Public Health.  Shanta has more than 18 years of experience researching the epidemiology of childhood toxic stressors, adolescent risk behaviors, and adult health outcomes, as well as integrative approaches to trauma survivorship, recovery, and healing.  Shanta served as one of the original investigators on the ACE Study at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and was recognized by CDC for scientific excellence for her groundbreaking scientific publications on the ACE Study. Shanta is currently Associate Editor for Child Abuse and Neglect and her current research interests focus on developing curriculum to promote recovery and healing.
 
Audience:
This 60-minute webinar is intended for professionals who work with or care for young children, as well as professionals who support families with young children.
 
Level:
This is an intermediate-level webinar. It is intended for professionals who already have a strong educational background in child development, and want to apply that knowledge to more complex concepts.
 
How to Attend the Web Conference:
The webinar will take place on the Blackboard Collaborate system. To join the session, go to   https://sas.elluminate.com/m.jnlp?sid=2013048&password=M.01C4113630BE346CB8429D6C744A31 . No registration is required.
  • Before the session begins, please run the system check on the computer you will be using to join the session.
  • If you have not participated in a Collaborate session before, and would like to know more about the system, you can view a participant orientation presentation.
  • A certificate of attendance will be emailed to interested participants who attend the entire webinar live and complete a request for a certificate within 24 hours of completing the webinar. Instructions for requesting certificates will be provided at the end of the webinar for those who have attended the entire session.
  • A recording of the web conference and copies of the presentation slides will be available at http://www.bbbgeorgia.org/BBBwebinars.php a few days after the session.  You will also be able to view the recording on the BBB channel on YouTube.
If you have questions about the webinar, please send them to  [email protected] . To learn more about Better Brains for Babies (BBB), please visit the  BBB website .
Calendars of Events

Macomb County 4-H Events

February 4
10 a.m.-2 p.m., Thompson Family Resource Center, Warren

February 9
3:45-5 p.m., Church of the Nazarene, Roseville

February 10
Last day to submit 4-H fair theme ideas 
to Macomb County MSU Extension

February 27
Macomb County 4-H Program Committee meeting
6:30 p.m., Camp Rotary, Ray Township

March 4
10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Berville Lions Field Hall, Allenton

March 14
4-H Exploration Days registration begins
9 a.m., Macomb County MSU Extension
(Forms turned in early will be entered in the order that they are received)

March 27
Macomb County 4-H Horse Program Committee Meeting
6:30 p.m., Camp Rotary, Ray Township

April 24
Macomb County 4-H Horse Program Committee Meeting
6:30 p.m., Camp Rotary, Ray Township

May 11
Macomb County 4-H Youth Council meeting
6:30 p.m., Camp Rotary, Ray Township

May 22
Macomb County 4-H Horse Program Committee Meeting
6:30 p.m., Camp Rotary, Ray Township

May 27
Macomb County 4-H Light Horse Show
Camp Rotary, Ray Township

June 3
Macomb County 4-H Mini/Draft Horse Show
Camp Rotary, Ray Township

June 10
Macomb County 4-H Mini/Draft Horse Show
Camp Rotary, Ray Township

June 17
Macomb County 4-H Light Horse (Double Judge) Show
Camp Rotary, Ray Township

June 24
Macomb County 4-H Light Horse Show
Camp Rotary, Ray Township

July 8
Macomb County Mini/Draft Horse Show
Camp Rotary, Ray Township

July 13
Macomb County 4-H Youth Council meeting
6:30 p.m., Camp Rotary, Ray Township

August 5
Warm & Sunny 4-H Horse Show
Camp Rotary, Ray Township



Other Local Events
February 5
Beef Tagging
12-2 p.m., Armada Fairgrounds

February 9
Children's Gardens & Learning Activities
6:30-9 p.m., MSU Extension, Clinton Township

February 15
Michigan Invasive Species
6:30-7:30 p.m., Mount Clemens Library, Mount Clemens

March 6
Master Gardener Volunteer Training begins
6-10 p.m., MSU Extension, Clinton Township

March 11
9 a.m.-Noon or Noon-3 p.m., Tollgate Farm, Novi

March 12
9 a.m.-Noon or Noon-3 p.m., Tollgate Farm, Novi

March 30
Flowering Vines to Love (and Avoid)
6:30-7:30 p.m., Mount Clemens Library, Mount Clemens

April 3-7
9 a.m.-4 p.m., Tollgate Farm, Novi

April 11
Orchid Basics
6:30-7:30 p.m., Mount Clemens Library, Mount Clemens

May 15
Fun with Lavender
6:30-7:30 p.m., Mount Clemens Library, Mount Clemens

June 4
Swine, Lamb and Goat Tagging
10 a.m.-Noon, Armada Fairgrounds

July 12
Bats of Michigan, Bat Conservation Organization
6:30-7:30 p.m., Mount Clemens Library, Mount Clemens

July 16
Poultry and Rabbit Tagging
10 a.m.-Noon, Armada Fairgrounds


Statewide 4-H Events

February 3-4
MSU Pavilion, Lansing

February 4-5 
Kettunen Center, Tustin

February 13-March 20
4-H Archery SPIN Club
6:30-8:30 p.m., Mondays, Springfield Oaks Activity Center, Davisburg
 
Kettunen Center, Tustin

February 18 
Van Andel Arena, Grand Rapids

February 18
10 a.m., Brown City Elevator, Brown City
 
Kettunen Center, Tustin

February 21
10 a.m.-3 p.m., Kent County MSU Extension, Grand Rapids
 
MSU Federal Credit Union, East Lansing
 
Anthony Hall, MSU, East Lansing
 
March 4 
Spring Galaxy 4-H Horse Program Committee
Contact  Taylor Fabus  
Anthony Hall, MSU, East Lansing
 
March 11-12
Kettunen Center, Tustin
 
March 17-19 
Michigan 4-H Dairy Conference
Contact  Melissa Elischer
Kettunen Center, Tustin

March 18-19
Kettunen Center, Tustin

March 19-22 
Okemos Conference Center, Okemos

March 26
MSU Pavilion, Lansing

April 8
MSU Pavilion, East Lansing

June 21-23
MSU, East Lansing


National 4-H Events
 
February 17-20 
National 4-H Conference Center, Chevy Chase, Maryland

May 3
Online

July 16-29
Iowa State University


For the most up-to-date events listing, go to http://4h.msue.msu.edu/events