January 23, 2015 Updates

4-H Equine Field Day

There will be a 4-H Equine Field Day February 28^th, 2015 at Fresno State Agriculture Pavilion from 9:00-4:00. The cost is $10. There will be adult and youth tracks.

Online -Registration: $10/$15 

Walk-ins are Welcome-$15/$20 

Register Online: 4-H Horse Field Day Registration

Time schedule:

9:00 – 9:30 a.m.                 Arrive at Fresno State, pick up schedules & maps, 

9:30 – 9:45 a.m.                 Welcome and introductions

10:00 – 10:45 a.m.            1^st session 

11:00 – 11:45 a.m.            2^nd session

12:00 – 12:45 p.m.            Lunch

1:00 – 1:45 p.m.               3^rd session 

2:00 – 2:45 p.m.               4^th session

3:00 – 3:45 p.m.               5^th session

4:00 p.m.                         Wrap up  

Confirmed trainers/tour/demos: 

• Trail Clinic
• Showmanship Clinic 
• Hippology Clinic
• How to Run/put on a Horse Show 

Waiting on confirmation:

• Equine Nutritionist
• How to Fit a Saddle
• Equine Dentist
• Equine Chiropractor 
• Clinic Over Fences
• Horsemanship 

We will have a youth and adult track.

The event is open to all youth. Youth don't have to be 4-H members.
Youth and Adults both need to register

4-H Shooting Sports Workshop - Rifle Discipline

Safety First Association - River Oaks Range

Winton, CA (Merced County)

Saturday, February 7, 2015 – 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Sunday, February 8, 2015 – 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

A 4-H shooting sports workshop for the rifle discipline will be held at Safety First Shooting Association – River Oaks Range, 11584 N. Shaffer Road in Winton (Merced County). Participants must attend both days of training to receive certification. Upon successful completion of the course, the participant will be certified as a rifle trainer and can lead a rifle project at the club level or serve as county trainer to certify other leaders. There is no cost for the course. To register for the course or receive more information, contact John Borba at: jaborba@ucanr.edu

For directions to the facility visit:

http://www.safetyfirstshooting.org/html/directions.html.

Participants will be required to fill out a facility waiver to participate. To view the language of the waiver or to download it and sign it prior to the meeting you can go to:

http://www.safetyfirstshooting.org/SFSA_Risk_Agreement_rev1a.pdf

31st Annual 4-H State Shooting Match

Sharpen up your shooting skills and participate in the 2015 State 4-H Shooting Sports Match, sponsored by Siskiyou County 4-H Leaders Council. 

Entries for the State 4-H Shooting Sports Match, must be postmarked by March 9, 2015.

2015 Shooting Match Registration
2015 Shooting Match Rules
2015 Cover Letter

3rd Annual State Archery Match

Calling all Archery Leaders, the 3rd annual State 4-H Shooting Sports Archery Match is now open. The deadline for entering is March 16, 2015 Each leader MUST have the entry form signed by a 4-H staff person, who double checks that each youth is currently enrolled and submit a council check for their entries. The deadline for returning the entries is June 16, 2015.

Rules: http://cemendocino.ucanr.edu/files/204379.pdf 
Forms: http://cemendocino.ucanr.edu/files/204380.pdf

*A reminder only a currently enrolled approved archery leader can sign and send in the entries and score the cards as the member shoots. 
Any questions contact Linda Edgington at lgedgington@ucanr.edu or 707-463-4495

Communications Day

Communications Day will be held March 14, 2015 at Ballico School. Registration is now open. You may register online at http://ucce.ucdavis.edu/survey/survey.cfm?surveynumber=3370 or by paper application. I have attached a copy of the application. Registration is due by Monday March 2nd. Presentation categories are as follows:

1.  Demonstrations  – A demonstration shows how to do something. Member must use a minimum of four posters (visual aids). Overhead transparencies, computer generated slides, or visual aids produced and other mediums are equally acceptable. Topic must be 4-H project or activity related. Team demonstrations are limited to two team members. Age divisions are determined by highest grade of the two members. Models or actual products are encouraged with brand names covered. Organization and visibility of the work area is important. Note cards are allowed at county and sectional levels as long as they do not detract from the presentation. Note cards are not allowed at the state level. Presentation should not exceed 15 minutes.

 2. Illustrated Talks – An illustrated talk tells about something. Topic are encouraged to be 4-H project or activity related. It also uses visual aids and should include a minimum of three posters, slides, or other visuals. The illustrated talk would have at least a title, process, and summary. Visual aids need to be readable from all parts of the room. A team of two members may present an illustrated talk. A talk should not exceed 15 minutes. Note cards are allowed at county and sectional levels, but not state level.

*A Scientific Presentation uses the steps used by scientists to answer questions and solve problems. The scientific process includes the following steps: 

1.    Ask a question. 

2.    Form a hypothesis of what you expect the answer to your question to be.

3.    Test the hypothesis by conducting an experiment.

4.    Analyze the results of the tests and information you have gathered.

5.    Draw conclusions regarding the hypothesis from the tests.

6.    Communicate the results.

The speaker will use posters or equivalent visual aids to enhance the teaching process. The visual aids will include a title, question, hypothesis, test, and an analysis card. This presentation style will have a minimum of 5 poster cards or equivalent multimedia presentation. Can be either Demonstration or Illustrated Talk style)

3. Prepared Speech – This presentation is written and delivered by the member. A speech is either informative or persuasive. There are no visual aids, costumes, or props. Note cards may be used at county and sectional levels, but not at state level. Limited to individuals, not teams. Length of speech should be 2 – 10 minutes.

 4. Interpretive Reading – Members may read any published, written work. It should be age appropriate. Possibilities include, but are not limited to, children's stories, poetry, essays, and excerpts from novels. The member will introduce themselves and their chosen piece. Include the title, author, characters, purpose and setting, and any other information that would enhance the audience's understanding of the piece. The characters and setting are created through voice and gestures. The member is presenting the reading as at a story hour, not acting it out. The member may sit or stand. The source material must be present and used during the reading. No props, costumes, or other materials may be used. The member completes the presentation with a short conclusion, which leaves the audience with a vivid memory. At the state level, the introduction and conclusion together are limited to no more than 5 minutes and the reading is limited to 5 minutes. This is limited to individual participants.

 5.Impromptu– This category is open to intermediate and senior division members.  In the Impromptu category at the county, sectional and state level general topics are announced ahead. Basic research is done prior to the event by the youth. For each topic, the youth is allowed to bring 1 5x7 card of their research on the topic. The member randomly draws one with three minutes to prepare.

2015 Impromptu Topics

Senior Topics 

Science, Engineering and Technology

• Aerospace Engineering: the research, design, development, construction, testing of aircraft and spacecraft. The ways in which the field has contributed to (or not) the health and safety of humanity and the environment.

Healthy Living

• Importance of sleep: effects on ability to learn, signs of sleepiness, sleepiness and decision making, consequences of lost sleep, how to get a good night sleep, sleep and managing stress.

Citizenship

Civic Engagement defined by the National 4-H Citizenship framework- Individual and collective actions designed to identify and address issues of public concern.

• Voice
• Decision Making
• Advocacy
• Activism

 Positive Youth Development

• Describe and discuss a Growth Mindset versus a Fixed Mindset.

 Intermediate Topics 

Science, Engineering and Technology

• Sustainable Energy – The production of energy from renewable forms (such as wind, sun, water, biofuel) and energy efficiency (using less energy).

Healthy Living

• Importance of sleep: signs of sleepiness, sleep and screen time, how to get a good night sleep, exercise and sleep.

Citizenship

• Civic Engagement – The importance of advocacy and activism; using youth voice for the betterment of others.

Positive Youth Development

• Sparks – Discuss what a spark is, why sparks are important to a healthy lifestyle and strategies for identifying and nurturing your spark.
• Science, Engineering and Technology (SET): Aerospace Engineering: Flying Into the Future! 
• Citizenship: Civic Engagement 
• Healthy Living: Sleep and Stress 
• Thrive: The Path to Thriving 

2015 Special Recognition: Awarded to 4-H members who relate their presentations (all categories are eligible) to one of the following four focus areas:

Please visit Recognition Opportunities for more information, including complete descriptions, resources, and eligibility requirements.

 6. Share the Fun – This is a skit category that focuses on health, safety, community pride, recreation, or citizenship. This is a group presentation. It should have an introduction which states its purpose. Costumes, props, decorations, and visual aids are encouraged. Audience participation is allowed. Judges may ask questions to clarify judging, but the members are not tested on their answers. At the state level judging is on the American System and the presentation is limited to 15 minutes.

 7. Cultural Arts – This is an individual or group performance presentation such as a dramatic reading, music, dance, or other performing arts. The introduction includes its purpose. Costumes, props, and visual aids are encouraged.

 8. Educational Display – This is a visual presentation either set up with a tri-fold board approximately 30x30” on a table top or a larger, up to 48x48” board, set on an easel. Either format will contain the title, member's name, 4-H club, and a visual depiction of the concept or program featured. It should be readable from at least four feet away. The member will give an oral introduction to the audience and answer judges' questions. Notes may be used at county but not at sectional or state level.

 9. Audio visual – This is an individual presentation consisting of slides, video or digital productions. The presentation takes advantage of the format. It is not just using PowerPoint slides in an illustrated talk. The length is appropriate to the subject and format. A slide presentation is supplemented with a verbal commentary, tape recording, or audio track. No costumes or props are used. The member will give an oral introduction to the audience and answer judges' questions. Notes may be used at county but not at sectional or state level. The member is responsible for the complete production process and for furnishing all equipment needed. Some equipment is available at the county level.

 
10. Problem Solving – This category is offered at the state level for senior division members. The member does not need to qualify at the county or sectional levels to enter. Notes are not allowed at sectional or state level. Member is judged on the overall effectiveness of the presentation and not the solution presented. Member can support presentation with posters, overhead slides, or computer generated slides. Presentation should be 5 – 10 minutes. A list of state topic “problems” is available at the 4-H office or on the state website.

CAL Focus

          A unique citizenship educational experience for youth 14-19.

June 19-23, 2015

Located at the Holiday Inn

Capital Plaza- Sacramento

Witness California's government in action by participating in the legislative, political, and judicial processes. 

As a conference delegate you will:

• Register to vote, conduct a primary election, and develop a political campaign through a two party system.
• Elect constitutional offices.
• Analyze the needs and issues of your district and enact legislation with the goal of securing the governor's signature to make your bill a law.
• Create a service plan of action for your community
• Meet California law makers
• Tour the State Capitol, Governor's office and 3rd Court of Appeal
• Participate in fun recreational activities, tours and cultural events
• Make new friends

California Focus can be the beginning of a life of public participation that leaves you with a strong determination to become involved in your community.  
California Focus registration is now open!

A marketing flyer is available to you under documents.

Some quick points of reference for you are:

• Registration is online at http://4h.ucanr.edu/4-H_Events/CF/
• Fees are $665 per person
• Registration deadline is March 31, 2015
• Non refundable deposit of $300- due at time of registration
• Final payment - due May 19, 2015
• Treatment authorization forms should be uploaded to the registration survey

Apply to be a 2015-2016 State Ambassador!

The California 4-H State Ambassador Program is a working honor that provides 4-H members expanded opportunities to serve the University of California 4-H Youth Development Program. Due February 16, 2015. State Ambassador App Reference Guidelines State Ambassador Application Instructions and Information 2015

Leadership Development.

Project Overview:

The Merced County 4-H Leadership Development Project consists of learning the concepts of iThrive 2 and leadership development for club officers and jr/ teen leaders.

Expectations and Goals:

Members will be expected to do the following to complete their project:

1. Attend a minimum of 80% of all project meetings.
2. Complete a 4-H Annual Project Report at the end of the project year.
3. Have necessary means of transportation to and from meetings.
4. Lead one session with a team.
5. Plan and complete a Community Service Project as a group.

Meetings: Dates may change due to scheduling and availability.

Meetings will be held in various locations throughout Merced County on the fourth Monday of each month.

Hosting Clubs: Provide location for meetings. Some activities will require movement and internet access. If internet is not available, please let me know and I will work around it. Water and snacks are not required but very welcomed.

and prepare thoroughly for their Citizenship Washington Focus program.  During their participation in the program, all county delegations develop and carry out a service-learning plan of action to address a current issue in their community.  A final report on their service project is due September 15 of the year they travel.

Contact Jenna Colburn, Program Coordinator at jcolburn@ucanr.edu

State Fashion Review Categories, Challenges, Service Projects

Entry Categories: Traditional, Consumer Science Purchased $40, Upcycled, Jacket Challenge, Costume Challenge

Service projects:

• Pillowcases for Ronald Mc Donald type housing, Children's Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Special Needs Camps, and other venues throughout California
• Hats for youth and adult cancer patients, newborns, homeless drop-in shelters or to till a need in your community. They can be made of fleece, soft fabric or knitted/crocheted of soft yarn.  

Cover Art Contest  The State Fashion Revue committee is seeking entries to design the program cover for the SFR Fashion Show. Your design should reflect the theme, "Through the Looking Glass".  Contest rules are:

• One design per member.
• Any 4-H youth member may participate, regardless of projects.
• The design can be digital or hand drawn.
• You may use any medium (colored pencil, marker, paint, digital).  
• The space allowed for the finished cover, including text, is 4.5” wide x 7.5” tall. This fits on a folded letter size page. 
• All art work must be original. No clipart allowed.
• Include the words "2015 State Fashion Revue" and the date "May 30, 2015".
• Use the 4-H clover appropriately in your design.  
• Please keep your original art work and go to this link to submit your entry http://ucanr.edu/sfrcovercontest
• Entries are due by 5:00 PM on December 15, 2014
• For more information email mvemails@yahoo.com

We look forward to receiving your cover designs! Have fun and good luck!

Categories:

1. Traditional – features garments the participant has constructed for him/herself, showcasing sewing skills and the ability to coordinate an outfit. The entry must be sewn by the member as part of his/her 4-H Clothing and Textiles project. The outfit must contain at least one constructed garment; participants are encouraged to construct additional garments to complete the outfit.

2. Consumer Science Purchased - $40.00 limit for the entire outfit, includes shoes but not sales tax. Receipts from the current 4-H year are required for any item that is visible. Gifts, prior purchases, and items without receipts are not eligible for this category. Receipts from yard sales, etc. may be hand written. There is no 4-H project requirement.

3. Upcycled – take one or more existing garments and turn them into a new, different, and wearable garment. Add a handmade accessory. The upcycled garment must be sewn by the member as part of his/her 4-H Clothing & Textiles project. Additional upcycled and/or sewn garments are encouraged to complete the outfit. A “before” photograph showing the original garment(s) is required. This is not an alteration such as a large dress altered to fit a smaller person. It is a complete change such as pants and a shirt made into a dress. Other fabrics and material may be added during the construction process.

4. Jacket Challenge – tiered requirements - Junior: construct a jacket using any pattern, any fabric.  Intermediate: construct a jacket and one other garment. Senior: construct a jacket and other pieces to complete an outfit. The entry must be sewn by the member as part of his/her 4-H Clothing & Textiles project. What is a jacket? For this category it covers the upper body, has sleeves of any length and opens in the front. Other construction details such as fasteners, collar, lapels, pockets, lining, etc. are optional, determined by sewing experience. 

5. Costume Challenge - use any technique, any materials, and any pattern to create a costume. It does not need to be sewn from fabric but it does need to be made by the participant, not purchased. There is no 4-H project requirement. The theme and costume must be 4-H appropriate.

State Field Day Plant Science Contest Location: Hart Hall (Lobby, room 1128, and room 1130) Time: 10:00am - 1:30pm The plant science contest engages youth in the scientific study of plant life and provides an opportunity for youth to increase their knowledge of horticultural plants, and horticultural/plant science techniques and knowledge, greatly expand their ability to identify various plants and allows for interaction with other youth interested in plant science. The plant science contest is organized into three parts: Judging, Plant Identification, and Written. All 4-H'ers are welcome to participate in the contest. No Pre-registration is necessary.

The four highest scoring senior-age youth (15-18) are eligible to be part of the California State 4-H Horticulture team. This team represents California in the National Junior Horticultural Association convention. Senior-age youth (in addition to team members) are also eligible to attend the convention and participate in demonstration, speech, and a number of other contests at the convention. See http://www.njha.org/projects_hortid.html for more information on the contest format and rules.

2015 National 4-H Beekeeping Essay Contest 2015 Essay Topic: “Planting for Bees from Backyards and Up” Participate in the 2015 National 4-H Beekeeping Essay Contest and submit a 750 to 1000 word essay with the listed criteria in this document. This contest is open to active 4-H club members and must adhere to the requirements and designated subject. Awards: 1st Prize - $750, 2nd Prize - $500, 3rd Prize - $250 Essays must be submitted electronically as a Word or .pdf attachment, to the State 4-H Office by February 6, 2015. Email to: ca4h@ucanr.edu. In the subject line write: 2015 National Honey Bee Contest. The National winners' essays will appear in an issue of the American Beekeeping Federation's newsletter.