4-H Family News header 

  April 2017     
Macomb County 4-H News & Events

Counselor in Training Program & Spring Day Camp
Counselor in Training Program : MSU Extension is recruiting high school teens in grades 9-12 to volunteer to facilitate day camps and other youth events at the Max Thompson Family Resource Center, 11370 Hupp Street, Warren. In exchange, teens will be given certificates of community service, a letter of reference based on their performance, many professional development workshops, and opportunities to attend statewide and national events.
 
Spring Day Camp is April 3-7, 2017 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. The camp, for youth ages 5-12, is fun and educational! The cost is $50 per youth. Breakfast, lunch and a healthy snack are included.  

After-hours care is available. Register online at https://events.anr.msu.edu/springcamp .

If any clubs or members would like to come and share their favorite project with the campers, please contact Lizz Duran at [email protected] .


Start planning for Fair now
It's time to start planning Fair 2017! Some important dates to get on your calendar are:
  • June 7th, 6 p.m. - There will be a Craft Superintendent meeting at the Fair office.
  • June 14th, 7 p.m. - There will be a Livestock Superintendent meeting at the Fair office.
  • July 30th, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. - Fair set up.

Changes made to the Armada Fair Book for Rabbits
The Market Rabbit section in our (Armada) fairbook has been changed for 2017. The changes come from suggestions given by judges over the last two years. Terminology and weights to the current ARBA Standard of Perfection have been updated. There is also a new Stewer class added, see details below. The class for Fryers is changed from a pen of 3 to a single fryer. The pens of 3 are extremely difficult to keep clean since they continually kick out the shavings and spill the water crocks.

The classes will be listed as follows:
  • Single Fryer
  • Tag 3 and bring your best 1 to fair.
  • Cannot be over 10 weeks of age with a minimum weight of  3-1/2 pounds and maximum weight of 5-1/2 pounds.
  • Roaster (previously Baker )
  • Tag 2 bring your best 1 to fair.
  • Under 6 months of age with a minimum weight of 5-1/2 pounds maximum weight 9 pounds.
  • Stewer
  • Tag 2 bring your best 1 to fair.
  • 6 months of age or older with a minimum weight of 8 pounds.
Submitted by Donna Schramm, 4-H Volunteer & Rabbit Superintendent
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

Computer Maintenance Clerk

Email:

Web Site:

Locations:

MSU Extension
VerKuilen Building
21885 Dunham Road, Ste. 12
Clinton Township, MI 48036
Phone: (586) 469-6431

MSU Extension
Max Thompson
Family Resource Center
11370 Hupp
Warren, MI 48089
Phone: (586) 469-7614
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4-H Spring Leader Meet notes
On March 14 , 2017, Macomb County 4-H held its annual 4-H Spring Leader Meet. The meeting was a time for 4-H leaders and representatives to get together and learn more about what is going on at the County level. It was also a time to list any requirements or concerns about fair.  The meeting included a lot of information, but some of the specific topics spoken about were upcoming 4-H events, the workshops clubs want to see come to Macomb County, nationwide 4-H events, Exploration Days, fair and the teen counselor program. 

If you would like to know more about the topics discussed during the 4-H Spring Leader Meet, please feel free to read the meeting notes . Any questions or concerns about the notes can be directed toward 4-H staff members.


New 4-H donation receipt, updated financial manuals
MSU Extension has a new donation receipt form that clubs should use when receiving a donation of cash, goods or services. The receipt can be found in the Financial Manual for 4-H Volunteers: Leading the Way to Financial AccountabilityFor the convenience of 4-H volunteers, the following forms contained within the manual are available as a fillable PDF form:
Club and committee treasurers can also find helpful information in the Financial Manual for 4-H Treasurers: Managing Money Wisely. Both publications have recently been updated. See the Michigan 4-H Financial Manual Corrections article in the Statewide 4-H News & Events section of this newsletter for clarification/corrections to the financial manuals.


Top 4-H'er change
To encourage participation and honor requests made by youth members to wear formal attire and return to the titles of King and Queen, the youth who obtains the highest score in the Top 4-H'er competition can be entitled either "King" or "Queen". The program will still be called Top 4-H'er.

Because selecting winners based on gender is in violation of Title IX, the 4-H King and Queen competition previously held was replaced by the Top 4-H'er Program in 2012.  The reason for the change was never what the candidates wore or were called, but rather because the winners were selected by gender.

A Top 4-H'er is a self-motivated, enthusiastic leader who promotes 4-H using the skill, knowledge and leadership abilities acquired in 4-H with fellow members, area residents, community leaders, elected officials and non 4-H youth. A Top 4-H'er serves to strengthen the 4-H program through public relations. They are knowledgeable of 4-H, passionate and active in 4-H. There are several benefits to being a Top 4-H'er! Application forms are online and are due to Macomb County MSU Extension by July 1st.


Member year pins available
Unused member year pins were returned to the 4-H office, so there are some additional (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: 1st year (15), 2nd year (1), 3rd year (5), 4th year (1), 5th year (3), 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 .


Mark of Excellence Essay accepted for State-level competition

Teagan Lake, from Macomb County 4-H horse club, Just for Fun, has had her Mark of Excellence essay accepted for state-level competition. Teagan and her Clydesdale Ace have been involved in The 4-H Draft Horse program for three years. Teagan is a 6th grader at Krause Elementary School in Armada and, in addition to training and showing her draft horse, she enjoys arts and crafts and community service to help teach others about her Massive horse! In her 3 short years of showing, Teagan has won many ribbons and awards and is looking forward to showing her horse with her friends at Camp Rotary and at state and National Clydesdale shows this summer. Good job Teagan!!

Submitted by Sandra Pallas, 4-H Volunteer

Macomb-St. Clair team participates in 4-H/MQHA Horse Judging Contest
On February 3rd and 4th, twelve Macomb and St. Clair County 4-Hers participated in the 4-H/MQHA Horse Judging Workshop and Contest at Michigan State University. Friday night was spent learning how to judge western pleasure and western horsemanship classes. On Saturday, contestants judged both of these classes along with one halter (conformation) class, answered questions, and gave a set of oral reasons, where they explained to a judge why they placed a particular class they way they did. 
 
St. Clair County's Sara Scott walked away with the win in the senior novice division. Just ten points behind her, in a three-way tie for second place was Macomb County's Audrey Beaudin. Erin Carbary and Marlie Buckley of St. Clair County who had very recently joined the team also finished 6th and 8th, respectively, in the Senior Novice division. 
 
In the senior regular division, St. Clair County's Felishia Block came in second. Also from St. Clair County, Shauna McIntosh, Hailey Moses, Jaelyn Sutphin, and Breanna Ngow finished in the top ten, with team mates Sam Enright, Carrie Brown, Sharon Torello, and Madilyn Morris just behind them in the top fifteen. 
 
What's next for these talented 4-Hers? Aside from lots of practice, several of them recently traveled back to MSU on Sunday, March 26th to compete in the State 4-H & FFA Horse Judging Contest. At this contest, scholarship money is offered to the top two individuals in the senior regular division in memory of Macomb County's long time horse judging coach Norma Agnew. Also, the top three senior regular teams qualify for national competition. 
 
Sound interesting? We'd love to have new members on next year's team! Contact coach Lucy Brown at (586) 855-3215 or [email protected] with questions or to be placed on the contact list.

Submitted by Lucy Brown, 4-H Volunteer


4-H Horse Program Committee meeting, show dates and ad book information
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
Macomb County 4-H Horse Program Committee meetings are held from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Camp Rotary Activities Building, 20505 29 Mile Road, Ray Township.

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

2017 Macomb County 4-H horse show dates
Macomb County 4-H Horse Show information will be announced as it becomes available.

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


2017 Macomb County 4-H horse show bills and registration forms
Macomb County 4-H Horse  Show bills and  registration forms have been updated for 2017
and can be found online at  http://msue.macombgov.org/MSUE-4H-Programs-Animals-Horses .
Registration forms should be returned to your club leader for review 
so  that  they  may be turned in to the Recording Secretary by May 1st.



Mad City Money
Want a taste of the "real world" before you get a salary, spouse, kids, and credit card debt? Practice managing money as an adult in the Mad City Money simulation with Michigan State University Extension 4-H in Macomb County. Participants will l earn how to:
  • Make a monthly budget or spending plan
  • Juggle house, car and utility payments
  • Balance family needs with personal wants
The program is May 6, 2017 from 1-3 p.m. at MSU Extension, 11370 Hupp Avenue, Warren. It's open to high school students, and it's free. R.S.V.P. to 586-469-7614 or [email protected]


Voyageur Canoe Trip - May 20th

Paddle along in a Voyageur canoe at Lake St. Clair Metropark in Harrison Township from 9-10:30 a.m. on May 20, 2017. All ages are welcome.

Learn about the history of French Voyageurs in
North America and their importance in Michigan,
and learn about the marsh inhabitants that the voyageurs were seeking. 

This program is free after entrance to the park.
Pre-registration is required. Contact Seth at
586-783-8163 for more information or to register.



4-H Days at Max Thompson Family Resource Center

At 4-H Days at Max Thompson Family Resource Center, 11370 Hupp, Warren, youth will be able to explore a variety of program areas, from gardens to food science to cooperative games and more. 

April 23-Butterflies

May 7-Authors, Comic Books & More

June 11-To be determined. 

More than just play time, 4-H Days values  the experiential model of "Do, Reflect, Apply", and all materials are research-based. Youth are empowered to be in charge of their own learning, instilling a passion for self-directed, life-long exploration. 

4-H Days are open to all youth ages 5-19. 
The cost is $10 for non 4-H members. Call 
586-469-7614 or just show up. 

4-H Exploration Days
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 that 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 choose 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. An $80 deposit is required to register. The balance may be paid on or before the orientation date. Macomb County has two orientation dates: June 5th at MSU Extension in Clinton Township and June 6th at the Max Thompson Family Resource Center in Warren.

A limited number of partial scholarships are available. Find registration booklets , forms and information online at http://msue.anr.msu.edu/program/info/4_h_exploration_days , or contact Macomb County MSU Extension at 586-469-6431 or [email protected] .

Chaperones and County Conference Assistants needed : Macomb County 4-H is looking for screened adult chaperones and County Conference Assistants (CCAs) for 4-H Exploration Days. A list of adult role responsibilities is online at http://msue.anr.msu.edu/program/4_h_exploration_days/responsibilities_procedures  under "Adult Responsibilities."   Volunteer session instructors  ,   session helpers and CCAs attend free . If you or someone you know is interested in taking on one of these roles for this event, please contact Seth Martin, 4-H Program Coordinator, at 586-783-8163 or [email protected] , or call 586-469-6431.


Tractor Supply Company 4-H Paper Clover Fundraiser
Please mark your calendar for the  2017 TSC 4-H Paper Clover Fundraisers:

April 26 - May 7, 2017   &    October 4-15, 2017

New Haven Tractor Supply            Romeo Tractor Supply
57155 Gratiot                                66143 Van Dyke
New Haven, MI 48048                   Romeo, MI 48065

Promote 4-H in-store, or purchase a 4-H clover at check-out to support 4-H!


Family, Fun and Fitness Day - May 13
Join MSU Extension and Macomb County 4-H Healthy Living from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on May 13, 2017 for Family, Fun and Fitness Day at the Thompson Family Resource Center, 11370 Hupp Avenue, Warren. Participate in fun outdoor events like archery, disc golf, basketball and volleyball. Take a tour of the Thompson Family Resource Center to learn about the services offered. This event is free and open to the public. Healthy food will be provided to those who participate in the activities and tour. Call 586-469-7614 for more information or to R.S.V.P.


2017 State Youth Leadership members announced
Thirteen youth leaders throughout  Michigan were selected to help lead Michigan 4-H.  Michigan 4-H Youth Development believes youth programs are the strongest when youth join the decision-making table as participants in program planning rather than as recipients in program offerings. Michigan 4-H has created a place for youth leadership and voice at the state level through the creation of the  State Youth Leadership Council . Read more about the youth here

Like our State Leadership Macomb County 4-H believes in youth leadership and established its own Youth Council in 2012. The Macomb County 4-H Youth Council strives to serve and include every club and member throughout Macomb County. It is our vision that someday there will be representation and participation from every club.
Other Local News & Events
Let's Get This Garden Party Started!
The best way to get your school garden off to a great start and keep it on track is to be well prepared. The best way to get prepared and pumped up for the upcoming season is to attend the annual  Starting and Sustaining a School Garden Conference on April 13, 2017.  This year we will be at Bloomfield Hills Bowers School Farm. 

Dr. Norm Lownds, Director of the 4-H Children's Garden at MSU, will present workshops on How to Connect Your Students to the Garden. There will also be hands-on sessions on Seasonal Gardening Instead of Summer Maintenance, All About Pollinators, Working with Diverse Students, and much more. 

On or before April 5 - $85
After April 5 - $95

A limited number of partial scholarships are available. For more information, to download a flyer, and to register, visit:

MSUE and the staff of the Community Food Systems Workgroup support Farm-to-School activities including school gardens. For more information, visit  http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit  http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters.To contact an expert in your area, visit  http://expert.msue.msu.edu
 or call 888-MSUE4MI  (888-678-3464).


Annual Macomb Demo Garden Plant Exchange - June 3
The Annual Plant Exchange will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2017, from 9 a.m.-Noon in the parking lot of the MSU Extension office at 21885 Dunham Road, Clinton Township. Please know something about the plants you may wish to exchange. No invasive species please! Don't have plants to exchange? Come anyway! There will be Demo Garden plants available for a donation and an orphan table for plants that are free for the taking. Master Gardeners and Master Composters will be available to answer your gardening questions.


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] .

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  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.


The Spring Garden - April 4, 2017 
Take this opportunity to learn what plants will grow in the cooler weather of spring and fall. There are 
a variety of vegetables and flowering bulbs as well as trees and shrubs that bring life to the garden even before the snow 15 melts! Join as from 1-2:30 p.m. at the Thompson Family Resource Center, 11370 Hupp Avenue, Warren. Class is free, but please register in advance by calling Macomb County MSU Extension at 586-469-6440. 


Lawns - April 4, 2017 
Kevin Frank, MSU Educator on Turf, will be joining us from 6:30-7:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 4, 2017, to talk about the proper care and maintenance of our lawns. Join us for this interesting and informative program to be held at MSU Extension, 21885 Dunham Road, Clinton Township. Use Entrance E at the rear of the building. Class is free, but please register in advance by calling 586-469-6440.


Spring 2017 Tree, Shrub and Plant Sale: Order by April 6th
The Spring 2017 Tree, Shrub and Plant Sale, a new collaboration between Green Macomb and the Sanilac/St. Clair Conservation District, is going on now! The spring sale provides an opportunity for the public to purchase young trees, fruit trees, flowering shrubs, wildflower seed and other fruits and vegetables at the most reasonable prices you can find. Orders must be placed with the St. Clair Conservation District office by April 6, 2017. Pick up orders at Freedom Hill County Park on Friday, April 28th from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. or Saturday, April 29th from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Orders will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Remaining unsold stock will be available for in-person purchase at Freedom Hill on April 28th and April 29th. Go to http://green.macombgov.org/Green-plantsale for more information or contact the St. Clair Conservation District at (810) 984-3865 ext. 5 or [email protected] .




Save the date! People, Pets & Vets is November 4, 2017 
from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Macomb Community College 
in Clinton Township. More information will be announced 
as it becomes available.

Statewide 4-H News & Events
Teens as Teachers, A Unique Michigan 4-H Workshop
This workshop for  Michigan 4-H'ers, who are 13 to 19 years old,as of January 1, 2017.provides opportunities to:
  • Learn skills such as communication, critical thinking, evaluation, facilitation, leadership, organization, responsibility, self-motivation and teamwork;
  • Use the 4-H Experiential Learning Model to engage youth in rich learning experiences;
  • Make learning fun and relatable to the young people they teach;
  • Serve as positive role models for other youth;
  • Bring new programming and ideas back to their 4-H clubs, county programs and local communities;
  • Find out about career opportunities.
Participants will select one of the following workshop tracks:
To meet the challenges of feeding a growing world population, we need more young people entering the science and agriculture workforce. This track features the  Healthy Soils CSI Challenge. While teaching life skills, the challenge promotes career exploration in science, technology, engineering, math (STEM) and agriculture. In Michigan, it will reach a minimum of 1,000 youth in classrooms, afterschool, camps or 4-H groups.
 
Leadership Through Parliamentary Procedure
In this track, teens will learn multiple activities to assist other young people to use parliamentary procedure to improve meeting productivity and become better leaders! This is one of Michigan 4-H's most requested trainings.
 
Money Skills Education
If you are interested in (1) helping younger youth, (2) making a positive impact in your community or (3) teaching children, this track will give you the skills to do so! Track participants will teach basic financial concepts - using children's books and hands-on activities - to 200 elementary-school students in classrooms, afterschool programs, camps or 4-H groups.
 
Share Your Love of Science
The  True 4-H Science Leaders program is designed to help teens develop skills, implement plans and voice their love of science with others in their community. In addition, participants will engage in a variety of hand-on science investigations to learn ways to help others experience the excitement of science exploration!
 
When and Where Is the Workshop?
May 20-21, 2017 at  Kettunen Center
 
What Is the Workshop Cost?
$45 - This covers meals, lodging and program materials.
 
How Can Someone Register?
Registration for the conference is available on the Michigan 4-H web site. If a registrant's county is offering scholarships, it is important to  check with the county before registering.
 
More information is available from:

Starting and Sustaining a School Garden Conference - April 13
The best way to get prepared and pumped up for the school garden is to attend the Starting and Sustaining a School Garden Conference on April 13, 2017 at the Bloomfield Hills School Bowers Farm, 1219 East Square Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills.  A great day planned for school gardeners. Several great educators are scheduled to speak on topics that will help you and your students make 2017 the best school garden year EVER! Register at https://events.anr.msu.edu/S3G041317Bowers/ .

Dr. Norm Lownds, Director of the 4-H Children's Garden at Michigan State University will be back to present update workshops, "How to Connect Your Students to the Garden" and the latest and greatest developments on how to participate in the "MSU Collaborating Classrooms" program.  There will also be hands-on sessions: "Seasonal Gardening Instead of Summer Maintenance", "All About Pollinators", "Working with Diverse Students" and much more. Check out all the break-out sessions at the online link for the flyer and agenda

There will be opportunities to ask questions and to network with the workshop educators and other teachers and school garden staff and volunteers.  Feel free to download this flyer and agenda to share with any other interested school garden people such as, parents, administrators and fellow educators.
A limited number of partial scholarships are available. Contact Kristine Hahn at 248-802-4590 or [email protected] for a scholarship application, with any questions about Starting and Sustaining a School Garden Conference, to schedule your own school garden site visit, or a professional development session at your school. Kea Norrell-Aitch, 586-469-6264 or [email protected], has additional scholarships available to 4-H volunteers who are very serious about starting a school garden and have a current connection to a school.


Oakland County 4-H K9 Fun Match                                    
The Oakland County 4-H K9 Fun Match is May 13, 2017 at Springfield Oaks County Park, 12451 Andersonville Road, Davisburg. Registration is 8:30-9:15 a.m. Rally and Agility will run first, promptly at 9:30 a.m. 

All events will take place indoors, with the exception of agility. Indoor crating is available. All competitors must show proof of DHPP and rabies -- no exceptions!                  

Day of match entry fees:  
$8 for first class and $6 for second class with the same dog. 
Adult class fee:  $6 per class 
Sorry - No Refunds                                                                                                

State 4-H dress code is recommended for all youth showing. Food will be available on premises for a minimal donation. There will be a Silent Auction.                                                                 

For questions or additional information, please contact Terry Harrison ( [email protected]).


4-H Livestock Workshops in Oakland County
Interested in learning about livestock?  Join Oakland County 4-H for some hands on learning with cattle, sheep, goats & swine. Workshops include basic terminology, care and nutrition, anatomy, fitting and showing. The cost is $10 per workshop for registered 4-H members and $20 for non-members.
  • Sheep - Thursday, 4/20, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Tollgate Farm & Education Center, 28115 Meadowbrook Road, Novi
  • Cattle - Thursday, 5/18, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Tollgate Farm & Education Center, 28115 Meadowbrook Road, Novi
  • Goats - Saturday, 5/27, 10 a.m.-Noon at Bowers School Farm, 1219 East Square Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills
  • Swine - Saturday, 5/27, 1 p.m.-3 p.m. at Bowers School Farm, 1219 East Square Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills
Please R.S.V.P. to Deb Morgan at 248-347-3860, ext. 279 or email [email protected].


S.E.M.I. 4-H Target Archery Tournament - May 21


Event Flyer               Event Rules


State 4-H Poultry Show - May 20th
The State 4-H Poultry Show will be held on May 20, 2017 at the Eaton County Fairgrounds and is open to 4-H'ers ages 9-19 as of January 1st.  Participants will gain experience in showing their 4-H bird and poultry projects. Youth will have an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, skills and be evaluated by a highly respected judge, competing against youth from across the state. Register by April 21, 2017 at https://events.anr.msu.edu/4HPoultryShow2017/ .


4-H Regional Shooting Sports Air Pistol Training - May 13-14
The 4-H Regional Shooting Sports Air Pistol Training will be held from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. May 13-14, 2017 at Demmer Center, in Lansing. The $65 cost includes curriculum, lunch and snacks both days. Participants must attend all parts of both days and must have 4-H rifle certification prior to registering. Contact Nick Baumgart at [email protected] or 906-774-0363 for more information or to request a registration application.


4-H Heartland Rabbit, Cavy & Poultry Show - June 10th
The Clare County 4-H Small Animal Association will be hosting the 4-H Heartland Rabbit, Cavy, 
and Poultry Show on   Saturday, June 10, 2017 . The show is held at the Clare County Fairgrounds 
and will be a sanctioned show. See attached flyer and rules for more information, or call Brenda Spivey at 231-429-4230.


4-H Shooting Sports Instructor Workshop - April 28-30
The 4-H Shooting Sports Adult and Teen Instructors' Certification Workshop scheduled for April 28-30, 2017, at Kettunen Center is now open for registration. Find out more and register online at https://events.anr.msu.edu/ShootSportWksp2017/ by April 16, 2017.


4-H Great Lakes and Natural Resources Camp - July 30-August 15
4-H Great Lakes and Natural Resources camp is now accepting applications! Camp will be held July 30-August 5, 2017 at Camp Chickagami in Presque Isle and is open to youth ages 13-15. Go charter fishing, snorkeling, or sailing, hike through forests, wade through wetlands, explore dunes and more! The camper fee is $375 for Michigan 4-H members and $385 for Michigan youth who are non-members. Apply online at http://msue.anr.msu.edu/program/4_h_great_lakes_natural_resources_camp/cost_and_how_to_apply .


Get Money Smart!
Check out MoneySmartWeek.org to search, by zip code, for thousands of FREE money management classes and activities taking place April 22-29, 2017.  Topics range from money skills for kids, wealth building tips for adults, budgeting to home buying, estate planning, and more!  Created by the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, Money Smart Week brings together financial institutions, non-profits, libraries, universities, and government agencies to offer thousands of free financial education classes across the country. Michigan State University Extension partners to provide some of these local workshops and classes.


FinancialManualCorrectionMichigan 4-H Financial Manual Corrections

February 3, 2017

TO: Michigan 4-H staff members, volunteers and club treasurers

FROM: Laurie Rivetto and Sienna Suszek, Michigan 4-H educators

RE: Michigan 4-H Financial Manuals

Dear Michigan 4-H staff member, volunteer, or treasurer:

Thank you for downloading or purchasing a copy of the Michigan 4-H FinancialManual. We hope you will find they are a useful resource for you in your 4-H role. After the manuals were printed and complete, there were two clarifications put forth regarding content contained in the documents. As a result, there are two necessary corrections to the 4-H Financial Manuals for Staff, Volunteers and Treasurers:

1. Sales tax is not collected on unprepared foods.

Prepared food is considered taxable. Vegetables, eggs, milk, meat and poultry that
is only cut, repackaged or pasteurized by the seller is not considered prepared food
and therefore is not taxable. Sales of food considered grocery items for home
consumption (such as pies or pasties created in a licensed kitchen) are considered
tax-exempt.

This information is found on the following pages/sections:
 Page 29 in the 4-H Financial Manual for Volunteers
 Page 30 in the 4-H Financial Manual for Treasurers

In the instructions chart, under the report line "Taxable sales income", the third
bullet says "When a 4-H group auctions (in both live and silent auctions) items
other than animals (such as gift baskets, pies, a gallon of milk, eggs, flowers, maple
syrup, a fishing trip, etc.), the income the group earns is taxable." Instead, it should
read "When a 4-H group auctions (in both live and silent auctions) items other than
animals (such as gift baskets, flowers, a fishing trip, etc.), the income the group
earns is taxable."

Please cross out the food items in the list (pies, a gallon of milk, eggs and maple
syrup) in your manuals.

2. 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.

Thank you for taking time to make these corrections. It is important to provide the
most accurate information possible as you serve in your very crucial roles.

Please also print out this letter and place it in your copy of the manuals so you have
the accurate information in an easy to find location.

Sincerely,

Laurie Rivetto                                          Sienna Suszek
Educator, 4-H Youth Development             Educator, 4-H Youth Development
Michigan State University Extension         Michigan State University Extension
 

Michigan 4-H Renewable Energy Camp - July 24-28

Explore how Michigan's abundant natural resources and growing agriculture industry are changing the face of energy and what it means to your family, Michigan and the world!

Michigan 4-H Renewable Energy Camp, July 24-28, 2017, is a five-day exploration camp held at Michigan State University for youth ages 13-19. Campers will explore ideas, research and opportunities in the field of energy as it relates to natural resources and agriculture.
4-H Renewable Energy campers will stay in a campus dorm and experience campus life, enjoying a mix of recreational opportunities and learning experiences that may include:
  • Tours of on-campus labs - See cutting-edge research centered on turning biomass into biofuel. Learn about brand new ideas and technologies that will play a significant role in our energy future.
  • Kellogg Biological Station - Participate in hands-on research of a new biofuel crop and discuss water quality/quantity needs, greenhouse gas emissions and sustainable production practices.
  • Farm and Home Visits - Visit farms and homes that have gone off the grid and explore renewable energy in action.
  • Carbon Green Bioenergy - Watch this facility turn 50,000 bushels of corn into 135,000 gallons of ethanol - every day. Participants will not only see how it's done, but help them do it!
  • Wind Farm - See an operating wind farm and learn how much energy they can generate and how wind can impact our future.
  • Fun around campus - Visit the Michigan State University Breslin Center, Dairy Store and much more!
4-H Renewable Energy campers will also conduct their own experiments and create their own biofuel!

The cost to attend this five-day camp is just $190 ($200 for youth who are not 4-H members) 
and includes all meals, transportation to field trips, lodging and materials.Applications should be submitted online by May 19, 2017. Questions? Please contact Insa Raymond at [email protected] or at 517-439-9301.







Registration is open for the State 4-H Youth Conservation Council
Registration for the Michigan 4-H Youth Conservation Council is open!  The Michigan 4-H Youth Conservation Council (M4-HYCC) is an MSU pre-college program and leadership opportunity for youth ages 13-19 that takes place from April to June. 

Do you want to influence the laws of the state of Michigan and make a difference for the natural resources of our state? Join the Michigan 4-H Youth Conservation Council!  This is open to high-school aged students.  The group will meet a total of four times to select and research a natural resource related topic, develop a paper and presentation, and present that information to members of the Michigan Senate.
 
Dates and locations for meetings are:
  1. April 15th - 10 a.m.-5 p.m. - Veteran's Memorial Library in Mount Pleasant - Select a natural resource topic
  2. May 20th - 10 a.m.-5 p.m. - Veteran's Memorial Library in Mount Pleasant - Learn more about your selected natural resource topic and further research
  3. June 3 - 10 a.m.-5 p.m. - Veteran's Memorial Library in Mount Pleasant - Develop your presentation and paper
  4. Early June TBD - overnight in Lansing to present your paper to legislators.
The fee to participate in M4-HYCC is $60.00 for 4-H members who have enrolled in 4-H online as of Sept. 1, 2016, and $70.00 for those not enrolled in 4-H online. The fee covers meeting costs, lodging, and some meals. Applicants may be asked to participate in a telephone interview before 2017 council members are announced. You will be contacted by the YCC coordinator via e-mail to schedule your phone interview.

Register online at https://events.anr.msu.edu/M4HYCC17/ by April 8, 2017.  For information contact Michigan 4-H YCC Coordinator, Darren Bagley, at [email protected].


Michigan Adventure 4-H Day
Michigan's Adventure is again partnering with Muskegon County 4-H to host a 4-H Day. Michigan 4-H members, volunteers, staff and their families are invited! The cost is $25 with an optional lunch for $6.  Reservations are not mandatory, but are highly encouraged. R.S.V.P. by May 31, 2017 if requesting lunch with admission. Please also register for the lunch. Everyone will pay for their tickets on the day of the event. To get the discount on the day of the event, wear a 4-H shirt or bring something showing that you are with Michigan 4-H. 

Reservations are required for admission and meal tickets by May 31, 2017. Contact the Group Sales Office directly at 231-766-9959 or by email at  [email protected]. Questions? Contact Katie Courtade, Muskegon County 4-H Program Coordinator, at 231-724-4739 or [email protected].


Volunteer for CWF Michigan Beach Clean-Up - April 22
At Citizenship Washington Focus in 2016 - the youth participants put forward an idea for a service project of beach cleanup in Michigan. The youth's idea won a grant for their project, and they are conducting a beach cleanup in opposite corners of the lower peninsula. Youth have driven this project and are looking for your help.
 
The 2016 Michigan 4-H Delegation of the Citizen Washington Focus is hosting a beach
Clean-up event with the help of Sterling State Park and Traverse City State Park. This
event is open to the public and we would love your help. The event will be held on April
22nd from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
 
Lake Erie Sterling State Park
2800 State Park Rd,
Monroe, MI 48162
 
Sterling State Park 4-H Contact:
Claudia Paddy
 
 
Traverse City State Park Beach
1132 US-31
Traverse City, MI 49686
 
Traverse City State Park 4-H Contact:
Ruth Svec
  

New Healthy Living resources for 4-H volunteers
Health is the fourth "H" in 4-H and an important part of every 4-H members' life! By incorporating simple activities related to healthy eating and healthy activities, parents and club members can help make healthy living a priority in the lives of their youth.

Healthy Youth Activity Series
These healthy living activity sheets can be used at club meetings or in other youth settings. Look for more to be added throughout the year.



Other Statewide News & Events

Institute of Agricultural Technology offers certification programs
The  Institute of Agricultural Technology (IAT)  delivers innovative, two-year educational certificate programs that are designed to address industry needs in Michigan and beyond. Students learn "best by doing," so IAT programs are built on the concept of hands-on-learning. IAT programs develop career-ready graduates through intensive, practical learning and skill enhancement in agricultural, environmental, and applied technologies. Certificate programs are offered on the campus of Michigan State University in East Lansing and in partnership with several Michigan community colleges.
 
2-Year Certificate Programs:
* Agricultural Industries
* Agricultural Operations
* Dairy Management
* Electrical Technology
* Horse Management
* Landscape and Nursery Management
* Landscape Management

* Livestock Industries
* Fruit and Vegetable Crop Management
* Fruit, Vegetable, Organic Horticulture Management
* Sports and Commercial Turf Management
* Turfgrass Management - golf course emphasis
* Viticulture

For more information about the certificate programs and locations visit www.iat.msu.edu 
or call 517-355-0190 .

National 4-H News & Events

4-H Alumni: Raise Your Hand & Pay It Forward
4-H alumni across the nation are asked to Raise Your Hand and Pay It Forward to empower the next generation of True Leaders. The states with the most alumni hands raised will win $5,000, $10,000 or $20,000! Raising your hand is easy:

1. Raise Your Hand - Complete a form online to show your pride as a 4-H alum.

2. Compete for your state - Raising your hand is a vote towards a $20,000, $10,000 or $5,000 award for the states with the most alumni hands raised.

3. Pay it Forward - Tweet, post and share your #4HGrown experience or support and tag fellow alumni asking them to raise their hands for their state at http://4-h.org/raise-your-hand/ .


True Leaders in Service: Sign Up
Every day, 4-H'ers across the nation pledge their hands to larger service.  Every day, 4-H'ers are rolling up their sleeves and putting their pledge into action - leading positive change that empowers their peers and their communities.

This April, 4-H is launching an annual True Leaders in Service initiative in honor of National Volunteer Appreciation Month. True Leaders in Service, a month-long community service activation, will officially kick-off the first day of April and culminate with the National 4-H Day of Service on Saturday, April 29. Thousands of 4-H'ers will venture out into their communities to do what 4-H'ers do best. They will lead in service to tackle community challenges and help meet the needs of others.

Join the movement. Sign up today to take part in True Leaders in Service.

Other National News & Events

Essay Scholarship Opportunity
AddictionResource.com has a new scholarship essay contest available. The application is free. The winner receives a one-time payment to cover their educational expenses (Grand Prize = $2000, Second Prize = $700, and Third Prize = $300). AddictionResource.com is working to raise awareness of substance abuse problems. The organization is hoping to help as many people as possible.
 
Share your vision for an addiction-free world and you could be a scholarship winner. The next application period starts on April 21, 2017. More information can be found online at  https://addictionresource.com/scholarship/

4-H Calendars of Events

Macomb County 4-H Calendar of Events

April 1
Macomb County 4-H enrollment deadline for new members 
who are planning to show projects at the 2017 Armada Fair

April 3-7
MSU Extension, Thompson Family Resource Center, Warren

April 23
4-H Days (Butterflies)
1-3 p.m., MSU Extension, Thompson Family Resource Center, Warren

April 24
Macomb County Horse Program Committee Meeting
6:30-8:30 p.m.,  Camp Rotary, Ray Township

April 26-May 7
TSC 4-H Paper Clover Fundraiser
Tractor Supply Company stores, New Haven and Romeo

May 6
1-3 p.m.
MSU Extension, Thompson Family Resource Center, Warren

May 7
  4-H Days (Authors, Comic Books & More)
1-3 p.m., MSU Extension, Thompson Family Resource Center, Warren

May 13
11 a.m.-3 p.m., Max Thompson Family Resource Center, Warren

May 20
9-10:30 a.m.,  Lake St. Clair Metropark, Harrison Township

May 22
Macomb County 4-H Horse Program Committee Meeting
6:30-8:30 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 5
4-H Exploration Days Orientation
6:30 p.m., MSU Extension, VerKuilen Building, Clinton Township

June 6
4-H Exploration Days Orientation
6:30 p.m., MSU Extension, Thompson Family Resource Center, Warren

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

June 11
4-H Days (Topic TBD)
1-3 p.m., MSU Extension, Thompson Family Resource Center, Warren

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

July 1
Top 4-H'er applications due
MSU Extension, VerKuilen Building, Clinton Township

July 8
Macomb County 4-H Mini/Draft Horse Show
Camp Rotary, Ray Township

August 5
Warm & Sunny (Horse) Show
Camp Rotary


Other Local Calendar of Events

April 4
The Spring Garden
1-2:30 p.m., Thompson Family Resource Center, Warren

April 4
Lawns
6:30-7:30 p.m., MSU Extension, VerKuilen Building, Clinton Township

April 6
Spring 2017 Tree, Shrub & Plant Sale order deadline
(Pick-up orders at Freedom Hill April 28th & 29th)

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 7
Armada Fair Craft Superintendent Meeting
6:30 p.m., Armada Fair Office, Armada

June 14
Armada Fair Livestock Superintendent Meeting
6:30 p.m., Armada Fair Office, Armada

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

July 30
Armada Fair set-up
10 a.m.-2 p.m., Armada Fairgrounds, Armada

November 4
People, Pets & Vets
11 a.m.-3 p.m., Macomb Community College, Clinton Township


State 4-H Calendar of Events   

MSU Pavilion, Lansing

Wexford County MSU Extension Office, Cadillac

April 13
Starting and Sustaining a School Garden Conference
Bowers School Farm, Farmington Hills

Anthony Hall, MSU, East Lansing

April 20
4-H Sheep Workshop
6:30-8:30 p.m., Tollgate Farm & Education Center, Novi

Anthony Hall, MSU, East Lansing
 
Kettunen Center, Tustin

MSU, East Lansing

May 13
Oakland County 4-H K9 Fun Match
8:30 a.m., Springfield Oaks County Park, Davisburg
 
Demmer Center, Lansing

M ay 18
4-H Cattle Workshop
6:30-8:30 p.m., Tollgate Farm & Education Center, Novi

Eaton County Fairgrounds, Charlotte

May 21
Springfield Oaks Activity Center, Davisburg

Kettunen Center, Tustin

May 27
4-H Goat Workshop
10 a.m.-12 p.m., Tollgate Farm & Education Center, Novi

May 27
4-H Swine Workshop
1-3 p.m., Tollgate Farm & Education Center, Novi
 
Camp Tuhsmeheta, Greenville
 
 
June 10
4-H Heartland Rabbit, Cavy & Poultry Show
Clare County Fairgrounds

MSU, East Lansing

July 30-August 15
Camp Chickagami, Presque Isle

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