McLean County 4-H Family Update
September 13, 2012

Opportunities for 4-H Members

Salute to Agriculture

Plan on bringing your 4-H members to the University of Illinois on Saturday, September 15 and help the College of ACES celebrate agriculture! This year's Salute to Agriculture event will include lunch and a football ticket for $15!

Come cheer on the Illini against Charleston Southern! Registration will open mid-summer once kick-off time has been determined. Once open, a link to registration will be found at www.academics.aces.illinois.edu/future-students

McLean County 4-H Ambassadors

This is a new program to McLean County to serve as a source for 4-Hers ages 14-18 to gain leadership skills and participate in County wide programs and events to promote 4-H. Members will learn to develop ideas that encourage recruiting, fund raising, socializing, promotions, and community service.4-H Ambassadors will plan their own activities and meet as often as they plan. The first gathering will be Monday, September 24^th at 6:30pm at the Extension Office. This evening will be fun-filled to get acquainted and plan for upcoming events. If you can't make it in September, then stay tuned for the next time 4-H Ambassadors will be getting together! If you are planning to attend on September 24^th please register online at: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=7217 For questions, please call or email Amy Schlappi at 309-663-8306 or aschlapp@illinois.edu.

Livestock Judging Informational Meeting-September 26

McLean County has two new volunteers that would like to develop a livestock judging team and offer coaching for our youth. We will be having an informational meeting on Wednesday, September 26 at 5:30 p.m. at the Extension Office. This opportunity is open to all 4-Hers ages 8-18. We will be discussing our plan for developing the team as well as get input from 4-Hers who are interested in participating.

If you are planning to attend the meeting please register at: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=7221

Speaking for Illinois 4-H – September 29

Speaking for Illinois 4-H offers older 4-H members an opportunity to give back to the 4-H program by assisting local Extension staff with reporting to elected officials and stakeholders, recruiting volunteers, and identifying and speaking to potential funders. The next training will be held in Winchester (Scott County) on September 29. More information can be found at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/leadership_sfi4h.cfm The deadline to register is September 19.

Hippology Team

Once again McLean County will be offering Hippology Team instruction for any 4-Hers interested in learning more about horses and participating in Horse Quiz Bowl at the end of March. The Hippology Team meets twice a month on the 2^nd and 4^th Thursday of the month. If you are interested in participating please register at: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=7224

4-H Clover Challenge Grants

Attention 4-Hers, 15 to 18 years* of age - you've put a lot into your 4-H project...now let it pay you back. The 4-H Clover Challenge Grant is an opportunity open to members who have completed all levels of the corn, soybeans, or small grains project OR all levels of a foods, nutrition or animal science project that is tied to the use of corn, soybeans, or small grains. Members will work with a mentor to create two communication presentations using computer presentations, videos, GPS maps, posters, etc. These grants are sponsored by the Illinois Soybean Association and Pioneer Hi-Bred International. Check with the local Extension office for additional information.

(* age as of 9/1/12)

4-H Science Sleepover – October 12-13

Livingston, McLean and Woodford County 4-H girls in fourth through sixth grades are invited to Science Sleepover at Prairie Aviation Museum in Bloomington. Science Sleepover is a FUN pajama party where you can learn about a few careers in science, engineering and technology.

Drop off on Friday, October 12 will be at 5:30 pm and pick up will be Saturday, October 13 at 9:00 am.

A few highlights include:

·Meeting people in various aviation related careers,

·Touring the museum airpark including sitting in a retired military jet fighter and getting a firsthand look at what a pilot sees and feels,

·Trying your hand at flying an aircraft on one of the flight simulators,

·Spending the night in the old airport terminal.

Registration fee is $15, which includes museum entrance, dinner, snacks, breakfast, and a T-shirt. Be sure to sign up soon. Space is limited! Registration materials were sent by mail and are due no later than Monday, October 1.

4-H National Youth Science Day Experiment at Children's Discovery Museum – Oct. 13

The 2012 experiment for 4-H National Youth Science Day will be the 4-H Eco-Bot Challenge! The Eco-Bot Challenge will introduce youth to engineering concepts as they program a self-directed robot to clean up a simulated environmental spill. This unique experiment will engage young people in finding a solution to an environmental challenge, using engineering skills. Join us at the Children's Discovery Museum from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm to participate in this activity. Older 4-H members are invited to help teach the NYSD experiment. If you are interested, please call the Extension Office.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – Help Build a new 4-H Club

We are pleased to announce we have the possibility to expand our Metro 4-H Program by working with the Boys & Girls 4-H Club of Bloomington and three sites in Bloomington – Normal with after-school programs organized by the Center for Youth & Family Solutions. We are also hoping to build at second club at Wood Hill Terrace.

Clubs interested in "adopting" a new club can contact Carolyn Hansen, at 862-4041 (UNITY) or 261-1705 (Cell) or email her at cshansen@illinois.edu. If individuals are also interested, please visit with Carolyn.

NEW SPIN Clubs – SPIN Clubs are a group of 5 people, ages 8 – 18 who meet a minimum of six times during the year.

Alpacas are loving, wonderful animals that produce a high quality wool fiber that is used in many ways. As a result of judging at the County Fair, two volunteers have come forward wanting to work with 4-H'er who might be interested in learning about the care of alpacas, working with the owners for shearing the wool, carding, and spinning it. You will also work with them to create some small alpaca products. If you are interested, please Contact Carolyn Hansen at 309-862-4041 or email her at cshansen@illinois.edu.

Robotics is growing in interest around the state and country and we want you to grow with us. We need to know if there is a group of 4-H'ers interested in forming a robotics SPIN Club. You don't need to have a robotics kit of your own to participate. Please call Carolyn Hansen at 309-862-4041 or email her at cshansen@illinois.edu if you are interested in leading or joining a group like this. We would like to have older 4-H'ers serve as teen leaders!

STEMfest – October 20 at NIU

Join 4-H Families from Livingston, McLean and Woodford Counties for STEMfest!

STEMfest celebrates innovations inscience, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). NIU STEM departments, student groups, regional corporations, museums, educators, and national labs are joining forces to present hundreds of activities that range in complexity to entertain people of all ages. We hope to increase awareness of the critical role science and other STEM fields play in our world every day.

• Hands-on activities such as navigating a laser maze
• Exhibitors such as NIU's Davis Hall Observatory
• Demonstrations of technologies and intriguing science phenomena including our popular Creepy Chemistry and Haunted Physics Labs
• Fun for people of all ages!

4-H members, parents and siblings are invited to travel by charter coach to Northern Illinois University for STEMfest. 4-H members may attend with a chaperone other than their parent. Chaperones must be at least 21 years of age and chaperone no more than five youth at the event.

Registration fee of $10 per person includes travel to STEMfest and a T-shirt. Participants will be responsible for their own meals and snacks. Pick up locations include: Normal, El Paso and Minonk. Fees and registration materials are due no later than Friday, October 5.

For registration materials: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/cat79_3551.html

For more information about STEMfest check out: http://stemfest.niu.edu/stemfest/index.shtml

Camp Whitetail – October 27-28 at 4-H Memorial Camp, Monticello

Camp Whitetail is a weekend camp program designed to develop and practice skills useful to outdoor sportsman of Illinois. The program scheduled for October 27-28, 2012 is set up to accommodate families, or adult/child "teams". Participants will learn safe firearm handling, archery, tree stand safety, wildlife identification, first aid, and game care. The fee is $49 per person which covers all expenses including lodging and meals. To register or obtain further information about Camp Whitetail, call 4-H Memorial Camp at 217/762-2741 or email Curt Sinclair at sinclair@illinois.edu. Click here for the registration form and informational flyer: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/4hmemorialcamp/specialtycamps.cfm

Prudential Spirit of Community Awards

Last year, 167 county 4-H programs selected honorees in this prestigious youth recognition program, and 20 4-H'ers were among the 102 State Honorees for 2012. This recognition is extremely beneficial to individual 4-H'ers who have performed exemplary acts of service in their communities and to 4-H as a whole.

4-H'ers can apply online at spirit.prudential.com or www.nassp.org/spirit. Applications must be submitted to the Extension Office by November 6, 2012. The county 4-H program can then select one middle level Local Honoree in grades 5-8 and one high school Local Honoree in grades 9-12.

A state-level judging committee will pick the top youth volunteers in each state and the District of Columbia, who will receive silver medallions, $1,000 awards, and a fabulous trip to Washington, D.C., for national recognition events. In Washington, a national selection committee will name America's top 10 youth volunteers for 2013. They win additional $5,000 awards, gold medallions, crystal trophies, and $5,000 grants from The Prudential Foundation for charitable nonprofit organizations of their choice.

Air Rifle Team

Steve Dolniak, McLean County's shooting sports coordinator, would like to put together a 4-H Air Rifle Team to compete against other counties throughout the state. To be a part of the team would require a higher level of commitment than just attending the Air Rifle Workshops.Participants would need to be willing to attend practices each week. If this is something you would be interested in and would like more information please contact Amy Schlappi at aschlapp@illinois.edu or 663-8306.

Livestock Judging

We have a potential volunteer that would like to assist youth with livestock judging and possibly form a county livestock judging team. If you might be interested, please email Amy Schlappi as aschlapp@illinois.edu. We would just like to gauge interest at this time.

4-H Day at the Edward Jones Dome

You are invited to join other Illinois and Missouri 4-H members, volunteers, family, and friends for 4?H Day at the Edward Jones Dome at noon on Sunday, December 2, 2012, to watch the St. Louis Rams take on the San Francisco 49'ers. Tickets for the game can be purchased over the phone at (314) 425-0528, by mail, or by fax using the 4-H Ticket Order Form on the event flier at https://my-s.extension.uiuc.edu/documents/1722120509120912/4-H.pdf. You can also order tickets online at www.stlouisrams.com/4h using the promo code "4h." Credit card orders are accepted.

This year you have two seating options. You can purchase a $45 upper terrace level seat or a $90 field level seat. With each ticket purchased, you are to receive a $10 food and drink voucher and a special t-shirt featuring the 4-H and Rams emblems (Four sizes are available!). If your ticket order is for 10 or more tickets, you are to receive an additional $10 food and drink voucher for each ticket! Orders of 10 or more tickets can include some $45 tickets and some $90 tickets, or all the ticket values can be the same. As an additional benefit to 4-H, $5 of each ticket order is to be used to support Illinois and Missouri 4-H and Extension program initiatives.

There are a limited number of tickets available so order soon! Questions can be addressed at the phone number and e-mail address on the 4-H Day at the Edward Jones Dome flier or by contacting Dave Hileman with University of Missouri Extension at hilemand@missouri.edu.

Opportunities for 4-H Leaders

Cloverbud Training – September 17 at 6:30

On Monday, September 17^th from 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. we will be offering a Cloverbud Leader Training at the Extension Office. This is open to all current Cloverbud leaders and any club thinking about starting a Cloverbud group. We will be covering topics such as how to organize meetings for that age group, programming ideas and resources, and why Cloverbuds are important to the 4-H program. It will be a fun evening with hands on activities. If you plan to attend please register online at: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=7223

2012 North Central Region Volunteer Forum

Register Now! 2012 North Central Region Volunteer Forum will be held Oct. 11-14, in Wichita, KS. For more information go to: http://www.kansas4-h.org/p.aspx?tabid=314. All 4-H volunteers in the 12 North Central states are welcome to attend. You may register until September 21. If you do plan to attend, please email Tammy Stewart at breadladie2@aol.com

Leader Update – October 2 at 6:30

Leaders will want to attend the next Leader Update to hear the latest in 4-H policy changes and get information on upcoming events.

Shooting Sports Instructor Training

The next scheduled adult Illinois certified training workshop will be held September 28-30 at 4-H memorial Camp in Monticello, IL. If interested in becoming involved please Amy Schlappi at 663-8306 or aschlapp@illinois.edu Volunteers must be age 21 or older and complete the 4-H volunteer application and screening process. The registration deadline for the September 28-30 volunteer training is September 20. The next scheduled training will be May 3-5, 2013.

New Working with Committees Online Course

Much of what a 4-H Club needs to accomplish can be done by committees. A new online course –Working with Committees – helps volunteer leaders understand all types of committees, how to select and orient committee members, and the importance of committee reports.

This online volunteer training was developed by Sheri Seibold, Extension Specialist, Volunteerism and Leadership. It can be found athttp://web.extension.illinois.edu/4hc/

Please Help

4-H Photos

We are looking specifically for photos taken including the Royalty throughout the week of fair. Also, we would like photos of anything 4-H related for our Recognition program. Please send the photos to Amy Schlappi at aschlapp@illinois.edu.

Air Rifle Instructor

We are in need of additional air rifle instructors, so we are looking for someone to help or become certified. The training to become certified is September 28-30 at Memorial 4-H Camp. Please contact Amy at aschlapp@illinois.edu for more details.

Help 4-H!

Help grow your local 4-H through third annual America's Farmers Grow Communities^SM

Thanks to America's Farmers Grow Communities, rural community members and farmers can help give back to local 4-H organizations, $2,500 at a time.

Now through Nov. 30, 2012, eligible farmers in McLean County can enter for a chance to win the right to direct a $2,500 contribution to their local 4-H program. New this year, "Plant Your Idea" provides rural community members the opportunity to suggest an idea or initiative that needs funding for their local 4-H, such as a community garden or camp scholarships. Farmers may review the ideas and consider them in their application.

Last year, winning farmers directed $380,000 to 152 4-H organizations across the country.

Farmers can apply online and find the official rules at GrowCommunities.com or call 1.877.267.3332 to apply by phone. The Monsanto Fund will select one winner at random from each county and announce winning farmers and recipient nonprofits in January 2013.

In the past, both Livingston County 4-H and Woodford County 4-H have been fortunate enough to receive these dollars.

TSC Paper Clover Campaign

The fall TSC Support 4-H Clubs Campaign will take place September 19-30. Please stop by Tractor Supply Company and buy a paper clover. Portions of the proceeds will come back to McLean County 4-H!

4-H Find Out

Do you know of anyone considering joining a 4-H club? Please invite them to attend the 4-H Find Out event on Saturday, October 6 from 9-11 am. They may sign up by calling the Extension Office at 663-8306.

Other Items of Interest

Ag Presentations

Past 4-Her and summer 4-H intern Gracie Weinzierl is offering agriculture presentations to 4-H and Cloverbud clubs. Gracie is a National Collegiate Agriculture Ambassador, which is a program run through the National FFA Organization. Presentations can be designed to tailor to a specific 4-H program area and generally last anywhere from 15-60 minutes, depending on the group and the topic. Feel free to contact Gracie with any questions or requests at gmweinz@ilstu.edu or (309)660-3442.

4-H Alumni Bakeoff and Auction 2012

If you missed the 4H Alumni Bakeoff/Auction at the 2012 McLean County Fair sponsored by the Timeless Clovers, you missed a wonderful opportunity to bid on an assorted amount of melt in your mouth homemade deliciousness! Those individuals who donated baked goods for judging included: Karen Wyant, Mary Kerber, Rosemary Martin, Tricia Lambert, Laura Lindsey, Mollie Thomas, Joyce Yoder, Dawn Zimmerman, Rosemary Toohill, Kathy Roesch, June Jacobs, Jean Hiddalgo, Kim Crutcher, Barbara Tracy & Debbie Phillips. It takes a significant amount of time and money to create homemade baked goods anymore and all of these ladies are truly Champions in our book!

The Grand Champion ribbon was awarded to Debbie Phillips with her Coconut Pineapple Layer Cake. Additional 1^st place winners and their entry were: Joyce Yoder-Cherry Cherry Berry Pie, Mary Kerber-Pecan Praline Candy, Mollie Thomas-Texas Sheetcake Cupcakes, Joyce Yoder-French Bread, Joyce Yoder-Crescent Rolls, Dawn Zimmerman-Peach Pie, Karen Wyant-Mixed Fruit Pie, Mary Kerber-Apple Pie, Jean Hiddalgo-Peach Crisp, Rosemary Toohill-Chocolate Raspberry Muffins, Kim Crutcher-Scones, Roemary Martin-Maple Crumb Coffee Cake, Tricia Lambert, Blackberry Pie Bars, Kim Crutcher-Banana Bread, Joyce Yoder-Lemon Crinkle Cookies.

These award winning bakeoff items were auctioned off between the Junior and Senior Style Shows on Saturday afternoon. We are pleased to announce that $1825.00 was raised through the auction fun of which Gordon Ropp led the charge with his auctioneer skills. Proceeds from this event are used in Timeless Clovers programming and promotion of McLean County 4H.

Not involved with Timeless Clovers? There's no time like the present to be part of a dedicated group of people who remain passionate about the McLean County 4H program. So dust off those recipes and pull out those measuring cups. We'd love to see YOU be part of the 2013 Alumni Bakeoff/Auction!

Introducing New Website – Teens and Diabetes

Today nearly 1 in 4 youth have diabetes or prediabetes. According to a recent study by the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, between 1999 and 2008, the percentage of adolescents ages 12-19 with diabetes or prediabetes increased from 9 to 23 percent.

To address this concern, Karen Chapman Novakofski, Professor and Extension Specialist in Nutrition and Leia Weston, Extension Educator, Nutrition have authored a new website -Diabetes in Teens. It addresses symptoms, risk factors, monitoring glucose levels, making wise food choices, exercise, and resources for parents, teachers, child care providers, and health professionals. Do take time to visit the site at http://urbanext.illinois.edu/diabetesinteens/

Upcoming Events

September 17 – Cloverbud Leader Training

October 2 – Leader Update

October 6 – 4-H Find Out Party

October 7-13 – National 4-H Week

October 12-13 – Science Sleepover

October 13 – NYSD Experiment at Children's Discovery Museum

October 20 – 4-H Trip to STEMfest

November 5 – Volunteer Screening & Orientation

August 31, 2012 4-H Family Update

Congratulations!

Leader of the Year

Congratulations to Chris Milliman from Linden Lead'em 4-H Club. She is our 2012 McLean County Leader of the Year Award Winner!

National 4-H Engineering Challenge

Congratulations to Brady Boitnott for being selected to represent Illinois 4-H at the National 4-H Engineering Challenge scheduled for September 23-25 at Purdue University.

Legacy of Leadership Scholars

Congratulations to Alison Korty for being one of six Illinois 4-H members recognized as 4-H Legacy of Leadership scholars during the annual 4-H Family Event at the Illinois State Fair. She will receive a $1000 scholarship.

Opportunities for 4-H Members

Salute to Agriculture

Plan on bringing your 4-H members to the University of Illinois on Saturday, September 15 and help the College of ACES celebrate agriculture! This year's Salute to Agriculture event will include lunch and a football ticket for $15!

Come cheer on the Illini against Charleston Southern! Registration will open mid-summer once kick-off time has been determined. Once open, a link to registration will be found at www.academics.aces.illinois.edu/future-students

McLean County 4-H Ambassadors

This is a new program to McLean County to serve as a source for 4-Hers ages 14-18 to gain leadership skills and participate in County wide programs and events to promote 4-H. Members will learn to develop ideas that encourage recruiting, fund raising, socializing, promotions, and community service.4-H Ambassadors will plan their own activities and meet as often as they plan. The first gathering will be Monday, September 24^th at 6:30pm at the Extension Office. This evening will be fun-filled to get acquainted and plan for upcoming events. If you can't make it in September, then stay tuned for the next time 4-H Ambassadors will be getting together! For questions, please call or email Amy Schlappi at 309-663-8306 or aschlapp@illinois.edu.

4-H Clover Challenge Grants

Attention 4-Hers, 15 to 18 years* of age - you've put a lot into your 4-H project...now let it pay you back. The 4-H Clover Challenge Grant is an opportunity open to members who have completed all levels of the corn, soybeans, or small grains project OR all levels of a foods, nutrition or animal science project that is tied to the use of corn, soybeans, or small grains. Members will work with a mentor to create two communication presentations using computer presentations, videos, GPS maps, posters, etc. These grants are sponsored by the Illinois Soybean Association and Pioneer Hi-Bred International. Check with the local Extension office for additional information.

(* age as of 9/1/12)

4-H National Youth Science Day – October 10

The 2012 experiment for 4-H National Youth Science Day will be the 4-H Eco-Bot Challenge! The Eco-Bot Challenge will introduce youth to engineering concepts as they program a self-directed robot to clean up a simulated environmental spill. This unique experiment will engage young people in finding a solution to an environmental challenge, using engineering skills. Stay tuned for more information on how you can get involved!

STEMfest – October 20 at NIU

STEMfest celebrates innovations inscience, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). NIU STEM departments, student groups, regional corporations, museums, educators, and national labs are joining forces to present hundreds of activities that range in complexity to entertain people of all ages. We hope to increase awareness of the critical role science and other STEM fields play in our world every day.

• Hands-on activities such as navigating a laser maze
• Exhibitors such as NIU's Davis Hall Observatory
• Demonstrations of technologies and intriguing science phenomena including our popular Creepy Chemistry and Haunted Physics Labs
• Fun for people of all ages!

We are working on providing a fun bus trip for 4-H members from Livingston, McLean and Woodford counties. Watch for more details to come. In the meantime, mark your calendar and check out the website at http://stemfest.niu.edu/stemfest/index.shtml

Camp Whitetail – October 27-28 at 4-H Memorial Camp, Monticello

Camp Whitetail is a weekend camp program designed to develop and practice skills useful to outdoor sportsman of Illinois. The program scheduled for October 27-28, 2012 is set up to accommodate families, or adult/child "teams". Participants will learn safe firearm handling, archery, tree stand safety, wildlife identification, first aid, and game care. The fee is $49 per person which covers all expenses including lodging and meals. To register or obtain further information about Camp Whitetail, call 4-H Memorial Camp at 217/762-2741 or email Curt Sinclair at sinclair@illinois.edu. Click here for the registration form and informational flyer: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/4hmemorialcamp/specialtycamps.cfm

Prudential Spirit of Community Awards

Last year, 167 county 4-H programs selected honorees in this prestigious youth recognition program, and 20 4-H'ers were among the 102 State Honorees for 2012. This recognition is extremely beneficial to individual 4-H'ers who have performed exemplary acts of service in their communities and to 4-H as a whole.

4-H'ers can apply online at spirit.prudential.com or www.nassp.org/spirit. Applications must be submitted to the Extension Office by November 6, 2012. The county 4-H program can then select one middle level Local Honoree in grades 5-8 and one high school Local Honoree in grades 9-12.

A state-level judging committee will pick the top youth volunteers in each state and the District of Columbia, who will receive silver medallions, $1,000 awards, and a fabulous trip to Washington, D.C., for national recognition events. In Washington, a national selection committee will name America's top 10 youth volunteers for 2013. They win additional $5,000 awards, gold medallions, crystal trophies, and $5,000 grants from The Prudential Foundation for charitable nonprofit organizations of their choice.

Air Rifle Team

Steve Dolniak, McLean County's shooting sports coordinator, would like to put together a 4-H Air Rifle Team to compete against other counties throughout the state. To be a part of the team would require a higher level of commitment than just attending the Air Rifle Workshops.Participants would need to be willing to attend practices each week. If this is something you would be interested in and would like more information please contact Amy Schlappi at aschlapp@illinois.edu or 663-8306.

Livestock Judging

We have a potential volunteer that would like to assist youth with livestock judging and possibly form a county livestock judging team. If you might be interested, please email Amy Schlappi as aschlapp@illinois.edu. We would just like to gauge interest at this time.

Opportunities for 4-H Leaders

2012 North Central Region Volunteer Forum

Register Now! 2012 North Central Region Volunteer Forum will be held Oct. 11-14, in Wichita, KS. For more information go to: http://www.kansas4-h.org/p.aspx?tabid=314. All 4-H volunteers in the 12 North Central states are welcome to attend. Early bird registration is $200 and has been extended through August 20. You may register until September 21. If you do plan to attend, please email Tammy Stewart at breadladie2@aol.com

Leader Update – October 2 at 6:30

Leaders will want to attend the next Leader Update to hear the latest in 4-H policy changes and get information on upcoming events.

Shooting Sports Instructor Training

The next scheduled adult Illinois certified training workshop will be held September 28-30 at 4-H memorial Camp in Monticello, IL. If interested in becoming involved please Amy Schlappi at 663-8306 or aschlapp@illinois.edu Volunteers must be age 21 or older and complete the 4-H volunteer application and screening process. The registration deadline for the September 28-30 volunteer training is September 20. The next scheduled training will be May 3-5, 2013.

Please Help

HELP NEEDED!!! 4-H Records Judging – September 10

We are in need of at least 15-20 adults to assist with records judging. It is important that you judge areas that you have not helped 4-H members with their records. Times for judging are Monday, September 10 from 9:00 am until Noon and again from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm. If you are interested in volunteering please register online and let us know what areas you CAN judge and what areas you CANNOT or have no interest in judging. No experience is necessary, but you will learn a lot about the records process to help your 4-H members! Let us know by signing up online, or calling 663-8306.

Your assistance is greatly appreciated!! Register online here:

https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=7129

4-H Photos

We are looking specifically for photos taken including the Royalty throughout the week of fair. Also, we would like photos of anything 4-H related for our Recognition program. Please send the photos to Amy Schlappi at aschlapp@illinois.edu.

Air Rifle Instructor

We are in need of additional air rifle instructors, so we are looking for someone to help or become certified. The training to become certified is September 28-30 at Memorial 4-H Camp. Please contact Amy at aschlapp@illinois.edu for more details.

End of the Year Records/Award Applications

My 4-H Project Records & Standards of Excellence & Achievement Forms

All 4-H members are asked to achieve the Standards of Excellence for their age group. One of those standards includes completing a 4-H record. Forms are available for download here: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/4hexcellence/719.html

4-H Club Leaders may ask for these forms to be turned in to them before August 31. The above forms do NOT come to the Extension office. They have a form that must be completed by August 31 to turn into the office stating if 4-Hers have achieved their Standards of Excellence.

Illinois 4-H Award Application – Due August 31

4-Hers who are ages 12+ are recommended to complete this application in addition to the My 4-H Project Records and Standards of Excellence & Achievement forms. This form can be downloaded here: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/15017.pdf Remember: It must be signed by a 4-H Leader, Parent and 4-Her before turning in to the Extension Office on or before August 31.

Scholarships

Mosbacher 4-H Educational Scholarship Due August 31, 2012

The Mosbacher Scholarship provides approximately $1,000 to $1,500 selected current 4-Hers who have completed high school and will attend an accredited college/university or technical school this fall. The award recognizes 4-H activities, citizenship, leadership, and community involvement. The scholarship was created in 1971 to recognize Eugene Mosbacher's twenty-fifth anniversary as McLean County Agricultural Extension Adviser. The Mosbacher 4-H Educational Fund provides the scholarship which has been awarded to over 100 4-H'ers in 40 years. Application can be downloaded here: http://tiny.cc/mosbacher

Holder Scholarship Due August 31, 2012

The George E. Holder Scholarship is available to past and present 4-H members from McLean County who are entering their second year in the College of ACES at the University of Illinois. Mr. Holder (Class of 1927), a McLean County native and farmer, began his family farming business in the late 1930s and remained active in the operation until his death in 2000 at the age of 95. To date, seven $1,200 scholarships have been awarded by the Elizabeth Davis Holder Foundation held at the University of Illinois Foundation. Application can be downloaded here: http://tiny.cc/holder

Help 4-H!

Help grow your local 4-H through third annual America's Farmers Grow Communities^SM

Thanks to America's Farmers Grow Communities, rural community members and farmers can help give back to local 4-H organizations, $2,500 at a time.

Now through Nov. 30, 2012, eligible farmers in McLean County can enter for a chance to win the right to direct a $2,500 contribution to their local 4-H program. New this year, "Plant Your Idea" provides rural community members the opportunity to suggest an idea or initiative that needs funding for their local 4-H, such as a community garden or camp scholarships. Farmers may review the ideas and consider them in their application.

Last year, winning farmers directed $380,000 to 152 4-H organizations across the country.

Farmers can apply online and find the official rules at GrowCommunities.com or call 1.877.267.3332 to apply by phone. The Monsanto Fund will select one winner at random from each county and announce winning farmers and recipient nonprofits in January 2013.

In the past, both Livingston County 4-H and Woodford County 4-H have been fortunate enough to receive these dollars.

TSC Paper Clover Campaign

The fall TSC Support 4-H Clubs Campaign will take place September 19-30. Please stop by Tractor Supply Company and buy a paper clover. Portions of the proceeds will come back to McLean County 4-H!

4-H Find Out

Do you know of anyone considering joining a 4-H club? Please invite them to attend the 4-H Find Out event on Saturday, October 6 from 9-11 am. They may sign up by calling the Extension Office at 663-8306.

Upcoming Events

August 31 – Deadline for 4-H Records, Leader forms, 4-H Award Applications, Mosbacher & Holder Scholarship Applications

September 3 – Office Closed for Labor Day

September 10 – 4-H Records Judging

October 2 – Leader Update

October 6 – 4-H Find Out Party

October 7-13 – National 4-H Week

November 5 – Volunteer Screening & Orientation

August 17, 2012

4-H Family Update

Thank You! Thank you to all of the volunteers who helped make it a great Fair for our 4-H members. Whether you served as a show director, superintendent, judge, assistant, office help or in any other way...we appreciate your help! It is a huge undertaking and we couldn't do it without all of you!

Opportunities for 4-H Members

Salute to Agriculture

Plan on bringing your 4-H members to the University of Illinois on Saturday, September 15 and help the College of ACES celebrate agriculture! This year's Salute to Agriculture event will include lunch and a football ticket for $15!

Come cheer on the Illini against Charleston Southern! Registration will open mid-summer once kick-off time has been determined. Once open, a link to registration will be found at www.academics.aces.illinois.edu/future-students.

4-H Clover Challenge Grants

Attention 4-Hers, 15 to 18 years* of age - you've put a lot into your 4-H project...now let it pay you back. The 4-H Clover Challenge Grant is an opportunity open to members who have completed all levels of the corn, soybeans, or small grains project OR all levels of a foods, nutrition or animal science project that is tied to the use of corn, soybeans, or small grains. Members will work with a mentor to create two communication presentations using computer presentations, videos, GPS maps, posters, etc. These grants are sponsored by the Illinois Soybean Association and Pioneer Hi-Bred International. Check with the local Extension office for additional information.

(* age as of 9/1/12)

4-H National Youth Science Day – October 10

The 2012 experiment for 4-H National Youth Science Day will be the 4-H Eco-Bot Challenge! The Eco-Bot Challenge will introduce youth to engineering concepts as they program a self-directed robot to clean up a simulated environmental spill. This unique experiment will engage young people in finding a solution to an environmental challenge, using engineering skills. Stay tuned for more information on how you can get involved!

Camp Whitetail – October 27-28 at 4-H Memorial Camp, Monticello

Camp Whitetail is a weekend camp program designed to develop and practice skills useful to outdoor sportsman of Illinois. The program scheduled for October 27-28, 2012 is set up to accommodate families, or adult/child "teams". Participants will learn safe firearm handling, archery, tree stand safety, wildlife identification, first aid, and game care. The fee is $49 per person which covers all expenses including lodging and meals. To register or obtain further information about Camp Whitetail, call 4-H Memorial Camp at 217/762-2741 or email Curt Sinclair at sinclair@illinois.edu. Click here for the registration form and informational flyer: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/4hmemorialcamp/specialtycamps.cfm

Prudential Spirit of Community Awards

Last year, 167 county 4-H programs selected honorees in this prestigious youth recognition program, and 20 4-H'ers were among the 102 State Honorees for 2012. This recognition is extremely beneficial to individual 4-H'ers who have performed exemplary acts of service in their communities and to 4-H as a whole.

4-H'ers can apply online at spirit.prudential.com or www.nassp.org/spirit. Applications must be submitted to the Extension Office by November 6, 2012. The county 4-H program can then select one middle level Local Honoree in grades 5-8 and one high school Local Honoree in grades 9-12.

A state-level judging committee will pick the top youth volunteers in each state and the District of Columbia, who will receive silver medallions, $1,000 awards, and a fabulous trip to Washington, D.C., for national recognition events. In Washington, a national selection committee will name America's top 10 youth volunteers for 2013. They win additional $5,000 awards, gold medallions, crystal trophies, and $5,000 grants from The Prudential Foundation for charitable nonprofit organizations of their choice.

Air Rifle Team

Steve Dolniak, McLean County's shooting sports coordinator, would like to put together a 4-H Air Rifle Team to compete against other counties throughout the state. To be a part of the team would require a higher level of commitment than just attending the Air Rifle Workshops.Participants would need to be willing to attend practices each week. If this is something you would be interested in and would like more information please contact Amy Schlappi at aschlapp@illinois.edu or 663-8306.

Livestock Judging

We have a potential volunteer that would like to assist youth with livestock judging and possibly form a county livestock judging team. If you might be interested, please email Amy Schlappi as aschlapp@illinois.edu. We would just like to gauge interest at this time.

Opportunities for 4-H Leaders

2012 North Central Region Volunteer Forum

Register Now! 2012 North Central Region Volunteer Forum will be held Oct. 11-14, in Wichita, KS. For more information go to: http://www.kansas4-h.org/p.aspx?tabid=314. All 4-H volunteers in the 12 North Central states are welcome to attend. Early bird registration is $200 and has been extended through August 20. You may register until September 21. If you do plan to attend, please email Tammy Stewart at breadladie2@aol.com

Leader Celebration – August 28 at 6:00 pm

Leaders, please join us to celebrate a successful 4-H year on Tuesday, August 28 at the Extension Office. Dinner will be provided, and we will be recognizing 4-H leaders for their years of service. Please RSVP by email to aschlapp@illinois.edu or by calling the office at 663-8306.

Volunteers Needed

HELP NEEDED!!! 10 4-H Bakers Needed – August 28, 4-H Leader Celebration

We are in need of about 10 4-Hers who are willing to bake a dozen cookies or make a pan of brownies. Simple desserts will do, as long as they are HOMEMADE. Join in this fun way to thank our 4-H leaders by serving them one of your hand made desserts on August 28 for the 4-H Leader Celebration. Please let me know by August 24 if you are interested. aschlapp@illinois.edu

HELP NEEDED!!! 4-H New Year Packet Assembly

We are in need of a few good 4-Hers, parents or leaders to assist with New 4-H Year Packet assembly. The dates for assembly are flexible between 3-5 pm August 22-24. We need people to count out Clovers and Folders and stuff them in to bags for 4-H Club leaders to pick up at the 4-H Leader Celebration. Email aschlapp@illinois.edu if you are interested to set up a time to help.

HELP NEEDED!!! 4-H Records Judging – September 10

We are in need of at least 15-20 adults to assist with records judging. It is important that you judge areas that you have not helped 4-H members with their records. Times for judging are Monday, September 10 from 9:00 am until Noon and again from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm. If you are interested in volunteering please register online and let us know what areas you CAN judge and what areas you CANNOT or have no interest in judging. Your assistance is greatly appreciated!! Register online here:

https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=7129

End of the Year Records/Award Applications

My 4-H Project Records & Standards of Excellence & Achievement Forms

All 4-H members are asked to achieve the Standards of Excellence for their age group. One of those standards includes completing a 4-H record. Forms are available for download here: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/4hexcellence/719.html

4-H Club Leaders may ask for these forms to be turned in to them before August 31. The above forms do NOT come to the Extension office. They have a form that must be completed by August 31 to turn into the office stating if 4-Hers have achieved their Standards of Excellence.

Illinois 4-H Award Application – Due August 31

4-Hers who are ages 12+ are recommended to complete this application in addition to the My 4-H Project Records and Standards of Excellence & Achievement forms. This form can be downloaded here: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/15017.pdf Remember: It must be signed by a 4-H Leader, Parent and 4-Her before turning in to the Extension Office on or before August 31.

Scholarships

Mosbacher 4-H Educational Scholarship Due August 31, 2012

The Mosbacher Scholarship provides approximately $1,000 to $1,500 selected current 4-Hers who have completed high school and will attend an accredited college/university or technical school this fall. The award recognizes 4-H activities, citizenship, leadership, and community involvement. The scholarship was created in 1971 to recognize Eugene Mosbacher's twenty-fifth anniversary as McLean County Agricultural Extension Adviser. The Mosbacher 4-H Educational Fund provides the scholarship which has been awarded to over 100 4-H'ers in 40 years. Application can be downloaded here: http://tiny.cc/mosbacher

Holder Scholarship Due August 31, 2012

The George E. Holder Scholarship is available to past and present 4-H members from McLean County who are entering their second year in the College of ACES at the University of Illinois. Mr. Holder (Class of 1927), a McLean County native and farmer, began his family farming business in the late 1930s and remained active in the operation until his death in 2000 at the age of 95. To date, seven $1,200 scholarships have been awarded by the Elizabeth Davis Holder Foundation held at the University of Illinois Foundation. Application can be downloaded here: http://tiny.cc/holder

Help 4-H!

Help grow your local 4-H through third annual America's Farmers Grow Communities^SM

Thanks to America's Farmers Grow Communities, rural community members and farmers can help give back to local 4-H organizations, $2,500 at a time.

Now through Nov. 30, 2012, eligible farmers in McLean County can enter for a chance to win the right to direct a $2,500 contribution to their local 4-H program. New this year, "Plant Your Idea" provides rural community members the opportunity to suggest an idea or initiative that needs funding for their local 4-H, such as a community garden or camp scholarships. Farmers may review the ideas and consider them in their application.

Last year, winning farmers directed $380,000 to 152 4-H organizations across the country.

Farmers can apply online and find the official rules at GrowCommunities.com or call 1.877.267.3332 to apply by phone. The Monsanto Fund will select one winner at random from each county and announce winning farmers and recipient nonprofits in January 2013.

In the past, both Livingston County 4-H and Woodford County 4-H have been fortunate enough to receive these dollars.

Upcoming Events

August 28 – 4-H Leader Celebration

August 31 – Deadline for 4-H Records, Leader forms, 4-H Award Applications, Mosbacher & Holder Scholarship Applications

September 3 – Office Closed for Labor Day

September 10 – 4-H Records Judging

October 2 – Leader Update

October 7-13 – National 4-H Week

October 13 – 4-H Find Out Party

November 5 – Volunteer Screening & Orientation

Thanks,

Cathy Blunier

Unit Educator, 4-H Youth Development

University of Illinois Extension – Serving Livingston, McLean & Woodford Counties
402 N Hershey Rd
Bloomington IL 61704

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/

cblunier@illinois.edu

phone 309.663.8306 fax 309.663.8270

Happy Tuesday 4-H Families! Wishing all of you a wonderful 4^th of July holiday!

These email updates will come to you approximately every 2 weeks. You can always get these updates on the web at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/

New! Free Horse DVD

Passing along this info for a free horse safety DVD produced by Nutrena Feeds for those interested in acquiring one....Ranging from Horse Psychology to Rules for the Trail and Arena, this FREE 50-minuteDVD on horse safety will help you learn the basics of being safe around your horse. Horse safety is an essential part of the equine experience - and a passionate part of the Nutrena brand culture. For all of us at Nutrena, that includes safety in riding and handling, as well as nutrition. With 11 chapters ranging from Horse Psychology to Rules for the Trail and Arena, this 50-minuteDVD will help you learn the basics of being safe around your horse. Chapters include: Safety equipment, horse psychology, catching & building trust, leading, tying, grooming, tacking & untacking, riding (arena & trail), trailering, feeding, compatibility. Request a dvd at http://www.nutrenainfo.com/horsesafetydvd

Volunteers Needed for Fair

Looking for a way to get involved in the McLean County Fair? Volunteer with 4-H!!! Here is the electronic version of the Volunteer Form--applications are due July 2nd.
http://web.extension.illinois.edu/units/survey.cfm?sID=88&UnitID=477

State Fair Update

Tentatively 4-H judging will be held in 4 major locations on the fairgrounds. Judging schedules will be divided between morning and afternoon to accommodate project areas. Final locations will be identified in mid-July.

Horticulture & Floriculture – Emerson Building East Wing

Fashion Revue (4 days) and Public Presentations (2 days) – IL Bldg Theater

Natural Resources, Woodworking, Welding (1 day only), Forestry, Small Engines, Wildlife, & Tractor – 4-H Tents (MOVED to old Happy Hollow area)

All Other Exhibits (inc. 2 days of Public Presentations) – Expo Bldg Mezzanine

Due to the space changes, Foods Demonstration and Club/Group Action Presentation classes will NOT be offered at the 2012 State Fair.

Exhibitors are encouraged to park in General/Public Parking (Gate 6) vs. our usual 4-H Lot (Gate 8) because it is closer to the Exposition Building.

This year, only exhibits receiving a Superior ribbon will be paid a premium from the State Fair.

Save the Date for State Fair 4-H Family Event

The Illinois 4-H Foundation Board of Directors hopes that each of you, your families, and your local 4-H families will join us on Saturday, August 11 from 4 -6 PM on the Director of Agriculture's lawn at the Illinois State Fair for the annual State Fair 4-H Family Event.

This event marks the 7^th year of 4-H celebration at the state fair! Come and meet the new class of Illinois Hall of Fame, the 2012 Family Spirit Award Winners, our Legacy of Leadership Scholars, and our State Fair Online winners!

Online registration is available at https://ecommerce.aces.illinois.edu/4Hfamilyevent/

THANK YOU to all of McLean County's TEN YEAR 4-H Members!

This isHUGE Milestone and we want to recognize your accomplishments at the McLean County Fair, on the "TEN YEAR MILESTONE WALL OF HONOR", to be located just inside the front south entrance to Cloverleaf Hall! Please take a few minutes tell us a little bit about yourself on the Ten Year 4-H Member form, and send it and a digital photo to: aschlapp@illinois.eduor you may bring them into the office.Milestone biographies are due July 26. The form is available on our website at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/43358.pdf

4-H members who have completed 10 or more years of 4-H will be recognized at the Flag Raising Ceremony on Tuesday evening, July 31 at 8:00 PM (All ten year members are encouraged to attend.)

Oh the Places You'll Go...in 4-H!

Bring a flash drive and all your records to get one-on-one assistance from state winners and volunteers with the Illinois 4-H Award Application. You'll be working in a computer lab at Heartland Community College Instructional Commons North Building. A workshop will be held on Thursday, August 9 6:30-8pm. Register online http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/ . Parents are welcome to attend with 4-Hers. Call the Extension office with any additional questions.

McLean County 4-H Horse Competition Preparation Clinics

CLICK HERE to view photos from last year's "Showmanship Clinic".

CLICK HERE to view photos of "Balanced and Controlled Riding 2011".

Get you and your horse ready for the 2012 Show Season!! Participate in ARENA ACTIVITIES or BARN ACTIVITIES. Both available each week!

Please read flier for more details!

Location: Interstate Center, Bloomington

Cost to participate with your horse in the Arena is $10.00* per week, payable at the door. There is a limit of 30 horses for most weeks' arena activities.

Fairgrounds Open 5:00-9:00 Clinics from 6:00-8:00pm

Arena Activities are limited to 30 horses*, so register EARLY!

AUDITING IS FREE! All are Welcome!! Open to all experience levels; pick and choose any or all six weeks.

Please click here to download a copy of the RULES for all participants in these clinics.

It is MANDATORY that All Manure and Trash must be hauled out with your horse.

***All 4-Hers MUST be ACCOMPAINED by a PARENT/ GUARDIAN/ TRAINER at ALL TIMES***
**Liability waivers must be signed upon entering the barn by a parent/guardian. You may download here..***

Proper barn attire required at ALL TIMES.

For Questions please contact Lisa Riddle jpines2388@speednet.com (309)530-7800 or Kate Rodriguez at k_rodrigo@comcast.net (309.261.0786).

Superior Young Livestock Producer

Youth do not have to show a live animal at the state fair in order to participate in the Superior Young Livestock Producer Contests for horses, swine, beef, dairy, or sheep. Twenty-five $1,000.00 scholarships will be awarded to the top five individuals in each specie contest. 2012 dates and locations are:

Horse – 6:00 p.m., Thursday, July 26th, lower level of Livestock Center

Swine – 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 8th, Livestock Center

Beef – 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 8th, Livestock Center

Sheep – 4:00 p.m., Friday, August 10th, Open Sheep Barn show arena

Dairy – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, August 18th, Livestock Center

For more specific details including registrations and rules visit the Illinois State Fair Premium Book website. www.agr.state.il.us/isf/

2nd Annual Illinois 4-H State Fair Online

It's not too early to remind members about the additional state judging opportunity that is made available through the 2nd Annual Illinois 4-H State Fair Online event. Members in all project areas are invited to make a video or map to share with a larger public to teach something they've learned in their 4-H project area. Entries are submitted online during the summer. Details on last year's event and entry examples can be viewed at https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/4hstatefaironline/

Club/Group Award Application

State 4-H Club/Group Report Forms, are due to the McLean County Extension Office no later than Friday, August 10. The form is posted at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/volunteers/support_recognition.cfm.

State award-winning clubs will receive state recognition, a state award patch, and $75 if they place in the Top Ten of any of the seven eligible curriculum areas. Applications must be submitted from a club member and a volunteer and must demonstrate youth leadership, project area development, and more.

Salute to Agriculture

Plan on bringing your 4-H members to the University of Illinois on Saturday, September 15 and help the College of ACES celebrate agriculture! This year's Salute to Agriculture event will include lunch and a football ticket for $15!

Come cheer on the Illini against Charleston Southern! Registration will open mid-summer once kick-off time has been determined. Once open, a link to registration will be found at www.academics.aces.illinois.edu/future-students.

4-H Clover Challenge Grants

Attention 4-Hers, 15 to 18 years* of age - you've put a lot into your 4-H project...now let it pay you back. The 4-H Clover Challenge Grant is an opportunity open to members who have completed all levels of the corn, soybeans, or small grains project OR all levels of a foods, nutrition or animal science project that is tied to the use of corn, soybeans, or small grains. Members will work with a mentor to create two communication presentations using computer presentations, videos, GPS maps, posters, etc. These grants are sponsored by the Illinois Soybean Association and Pioneer Hi-Bred International. Check with the local Extension office for additional information.

(* age as of 9/1/12)

2012 North Central Region Volunteer Forum

Register Now! 2012 North Central Region Volunteer Forum will be held Oct. 11-14, in Wichita, KS. For more information go to: http://www.kansas4-h.org/p.aspx?tabid=314. All 4-H volunteers in the 12 North Central states are welcome to attend. Early bird registration is $200 through July 31.

Volunteers needed for the Barn Quilt Heritage Trail Project

Volunteers are needed to paint quilt blocks on 2 by 2 plywood pieces. The blocks will be put in business windows throughout McLean County to stimulate interest in the "Barn Quilt Heritage Trail – McLean County" project.

Many community organizations are supporting the project already, The Bloomington Downtown Association, The
Museum of History, The Town of Normal, the Hands All Around Quilt Guild, and many farm owners, to name just a few.

Volunteers will be supplied with paint, primedplywood boards cut to size, quilt patterns and paint supplies (and basic instructions only if you need them). Volunteers can choose the quilt pattern and paint colors they want to use.

Please call Karen Gottlieb, 663-4259 or GnWscout@aol.com for more information.

State 4-H Poultry Judging Contest – August 9

The Illinois State 4-H Poultry Judging Contest will be held Thursday August 9th in conjunction with the Illinois State Fair Junior Poultry show. The contest will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Orr building on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield Illinois.

A county may enter any number of 4-H participants. A county team may be made up of three or four individuals with no limit on the number or teams or individual contestants. The four highest senior 4-H'ers will be selected to participate on the Illinois State 4-H Poultry Judging Team which will represent Illinois in the National 4-H Poultry and Egg Judging Conference during the third week of November in Louisville. KY.

Click here for more detailed information on the contest classes and format.
Click here for registration information.

State 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest – August 18

The 2012 State 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest will be held Saturday August 18th, 2012 in conjunction with the Illinois State Fair. The contest will take place in the Livestock Center at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield Illinois.

Registration is to be made on the day of the contest at the site of the contest. Registration will be from 8:30 am to 9:30 am with the contest starting at 10:00 am. To be eligible for selection, members must have been 14 years of age and not older than 18 years of age as of January 1, 2012. There is no limit on the number of participants per county.

The state 4-H dairy cattle judging team will be selected from participants in this contest. The selected State 4-H Dairy Team will participate at the National Dairy Judging Contest in Madison, Wisconsin. Click here for more contest information and rules.

4-H Program Fee/Club Challenge Update

There is a statewide $20 Program Fee assessed for each 4-Her and Cloverbud. In McLean County, the McLean County Extension Foundation offers support to cover $10 of that fee. 4-H members are responsible for the remaining $10. Many of our clubs work together by doing fundraisers to collect these funds. Check with your club leader to see how your club will be handling the Program Fee.In June, 4-H clubs will be assessed fees for the number of club members they have for the year. Funds raised through the program fee pay for things like project manuals, accident insurance, training for leaders, and state and regional programs and initiatives. If you have more questions about the fee please contact Cathy Blunier at cblunier@illinois.edu.

Quality Assurance & Ethics Certification

This program is no longer mandatory for State Fair exhibition. However, the website is available and all State Fair beef, sheep, swine, horse, dairy, meat goat and poultry exhibitors are encouraged but not required to complete QA&E Certification via this site.

Fair Book is online

If you can't wait to get a printed copy of the McLean County Fair Book, it is available online at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/mclean4hfair/115.html

Save the dates:

August 1-5 – McLean County Fair & 4-H Show

August 9-19 – Illinois State Fair

August 10 – McLean County Exhibit Day at State Fair

August 25 – State Fair Dog Show

Thanks,

Cathy Blunier

Unit Educator, 4-H Youth Development

University of Illinois Extension – Serving Livingston, McLean & Woodford Counties
402 N Hershey Rd
Bloomington IL 61704

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/

cblunier@illinois.edu

phone 309.663.8306 fax 309.663.8270

Happy Friday 4-H Families!

These email updates will come to you every 2 weeks. You can always get these updates on the web at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/

New! Please consider sending a card

Ashley Kaiser, 4-H member from Saybrook Willing Workers was in a tragic accident this week. Her mom and younger sister were killed in the accident and Ashley is in the hospital. It would be nice to send cards from other 4-H clubs to help Ashley heal. Her address is

Carle Foundation Hospital

7^th Floor – ICU Ward

Attn: Ashley Kaiser

611 West Park Street

Urbana, IL 61802

New! Volunteers Needed for Fair

Looking for a way to get involved in the McLean County Fair? Volunteer with 4-H!!! Here is the electronic version of the Volunteer Form--applications are due July 2nd.
http://web.extension.illinois.edu/units/survey.cfm?sID=88&UnitID=477

New! 4-H Shotgun Training Workshop - Level 1 and Level 2

Register now for the McLean County 4-H Shotgun Training event Saturday, June 16. Level 1 at 9:00 - 10:30 AM or Level 2 at 11:00 - 12:30 PM. (4-Hers must have participated in a Level 1 workshop before they may participate in a Level 2 workshop) This training will be offered by state certified McLean County 4-H Shooting Sports Instructors. Participants should be 12-18 years old, and will be accepted on a "first registered - first served" basis.

The classes will be held at Darnall's Shooting Range, 7.7 miles southwest of the Interstate Center on IL Rte. 9. Street address is 6125 East 1175 North Rd. Bloomington, IL 61705-9012. http://darnalls.com/

Register online at: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6799

New! Ducks available!

Two baby ducks with their wings clipped are available by calling Sue Ann Foster at 630-561-8190.

New! Fund raising opportunity for a club with older 4-Hers

A woman who lives in Bloomington is interested in hiring a 4-H club to clean up her yard including weeding and trimming. She is a former 4-H member herself and so thought of the 4-H program as a source for this opportunity. If you would like to earn some extra funds soon, please contact Kathy Weinzierl at the Extension office for more information.

New! State Fair Update

Tentatively 4-H judging will be held in 4 major locations on the fairgrounds. Judging schedules will be divided between morning and afternoon to accommodate project areas. Final locations will be identified in mid-July.

Horticulture & Floriculture – Emerson Building East Wing

Fashion Revue (4 days) and Public Presentations (2 days) – IL Bldg Theater

Natural Resources, Woodworking, Welding (1 day only), Forestry, Small Engines, Wildlife, & Tractor – 4-H Tents (MOVED to old Happy Hollow area)

All Other Exhibits (inc. 2 days of Public Presentations) – Expo Bldg Mezzanine

Due to the space changes, Foods Demonstration and Club/Group Action Presentation classes will NOT be offered at the 2012 State Fair.

Exhibitors are encouraged to park in General/Public Parking (Gate 6) vs. our usual 4-H Lot (Gate 8) because it is closer to the Exposition Building.

This year, only exhibits receiving a Superior ribbon will be paid a premium from the State Fair.

New! Save the Date for State Fair 4-H Family Event

The Illinois 4-H Foundation Board of Directors hopes that each of you, your families, and your local 4-H families will join us on Saturday, August 11 from 4 -6 PM on the Director of Agriculture's lawn at the Illinois State Fair for the annual State Fair 4-H Family Event.

This event marks the 7^th year of 4-H celebration at the state fair! Come and meet the new class of Illinois Hall of Fame, the 2012 Family Spirit Award Winners, our Legacy of Leadership Scholars, and our State Fair Online winners!

Invitations will go out and the online registration site will open on July 1^st.

McLean County 4-H TILT (Teen Interactive Leadership Team)

McLean County TILT is a countywide 4-H leadership program offering teen youth, ages 14-18, opportunities to network with other county 4-H Teens. Youth work together and have fun building leadership skills, planning county wide 4-H events, community service activities, and learn more about 4-H at the county, regional, state and national levels.

A TILT application is available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/39765.pdf. To join TILT fill out the application and return it to the Extension Office by July 2^nd.

4-Hers, 16 and older, are invited to participate in the 2012 4-H ROYALTY CONTEST.

Candidate nominations are due by your club/leader July 2^nd. Let your leader/club know of your interest today! Nomination forms are available at must be completed and turned in by your 4-H leader. Candidates need to be 16 years and older and agree to participate in the activities of the court. As per 4-H Show Royalty Director Connie Moore, and Royalty Superintendents Brian Basting, Brian Dirks and Linda Dirks: "We hope you will get involved and share your enthusiasm about 4-H, by being part of the 4-H Royalty Contest."

Preliminary contest is July 17^th at 7pm at the Extension Office Auditorium- you will meet other 4-H teens, talk one on one to judges in an informal setting and enjoy some snacks.

Candidate dinner Tuesday, July 24^th at 7 pm,. The court members chat in small groups with judges about what is going on in their lives.

The final contest is during 4-H Night, Wednesday, Aug 1^st at the Fair. Dress up, talk about what 4-H means to you for 1 ½ minutes, and answer a couple of questions on your ideas about 4-H and life. Plus, friends and family are there to cheer you on!

Court responsibilities include presenting ribbons to 4-H members, welcoming visitors to the fair, thanking exhibitors, and attending all fair entertainment and shows, while representing 4-H. And a primary goal is to have fun!

THANK YOU to all of McLean County's TEN YEAR 4-H Members!

This isHUGE Milestone and we want to recognize your accomplishments at the McLean County Fair, on the "TEN YEAR MILESTONE WALL OF HONOR", to be located just inside the front south entrance to Cloverleaf Hall! Please take a few minutes tell us a little bit about yourself on the Ten Year 4-H Member form, and send it and a digital photo to: aschlapp@illinois.eduor you may bring them into the office.Milestone biographies are due July 26. The form is available on our website at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/43358.pdf

4-H members who have completed 10 or more years of 4-H will be recognized at the Flag Raising Ceremony on Tuesday evening, July 31 at 8:00 PM (All ten year members are encouraged to attend.)

Oh the Places You Go...in 4-H!

Bring a flash drive and all your records to get one-on-one assistance from state winners and volunteers with the Illinois 4-H Award Application. You'll be working in a computer lab at Heartland Community College Instructional Commons North Building. Workshops held on Thursday, June 14 6:30-8pm and Thursday, August 9 6:30-8pm. Register online http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/ . Parents are welcome to attend with 4-Hers. Call the Extension office with any additional questions.

McLean County 4-H Horse Competition Preparation Clinics

CLICK HERE to view photos from last year's "Showmanship Clinic".

CLICK HERE to view photos of "Balanced and Controlled Riding 2011".

Get you and your horse ready for the 2012 Show Season!! Participate in ARENA ACTIVITIES or BARN ACTIVITIES. Both available each week!

Please read flier for more details!

Location: Interstate Center, Bloomington

Cost to participate with your horse in the Arena is $10.00* per week, payable at the door. There is a limit of 30 horses for most weeks' arena activities.

Fairgrounds Open 5:00-9:00 Clinics from 6:00-8:00pm

Arena Activities are limited to 30 horses*, so register EARLY!

AUDITING IS FREE! All are Welcome!! Open to all experience levels; pick and choose any or all six weeks.

Please click here to download a copy of the RULES for all participants in these clinics.

It is MANDATORY that All Manure and Trash must be hauled out with your horse.

***All 4-Hers MUST be ACCOMPAINED by a PARENT/ GUARDIAN/ TRAINER at ALL TIMES***
**Liability waivers must be signed upon entering the barn by a parent/guardian. You may download here..***

Proper barn attire required at ALL TIMES.

For Questions please contact Lisa Riddle jpines2388@speednet.com (309)530-7800 or Kate Rodriguez at k_rodrigo@comcast.net (309.261.0786).

3^rd Annual McLean County Fair Golf Outing – June 18

The McLean County Fair and 4-H Show has been a traditions for many years! Enjoy fun, friends and a round of golf to help support the tradition of excellence. For more information: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/43167.pdf

If 4-H members have items (possibly related to a project they have taken) to donate to the raffle, please contact Shawn Hoeft at 309-242-2635 or shawn.hoeft@gmail.com

McLean County Pork Producers Scholarship

Any McLean County High School senior who has raised or shown hogs for at least 5 years and/or is a member of a family who are active members of the McLean County Pork Producers may apply for a scholarship. More information is available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42915.pdf Applications are available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42914.pdf and are due June 15.

Calling Illinois 4-H Teens!! Leadership Opportunities Available

Applications for three state level youth leadership opportunities are available on the 4-H website.

Illinois Farm Bureau Youth Education Committee 4-H Representatives

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/leadership_ifbye.cfm.

Application deadline is June 15.

Illinois State 4-H Youth Leadership Team

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/leadership_sylt.cfm.

Applications will be due June 15 for interviews at the Illini Summer Academies or August 1 for interviews at State Fair.

2013 Illini Summer Academies Planning Committee - Due July 15.

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/leadership_isapc.cfm.

Food Demonstration Clinic – June 26 Register online for the Mclean County Food Demonstration Clinic on June 26 at 6:00 p.m. at the Extension Office. If you are a 4-Her planning to do a food demonstration for the 4-H show it is strongly recommended that you attend the clinic. Bring questions pertaining to your food demonstration. An example demonstration will be presented along with a hands-on workshop and many tips to prepare you for giving a proper food demonstration. Register online at: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6795

State Fair Premium Book Available

The Illinois State Fair as posted Premium Books on their website for the 2012 Illinois State Fair: http://www.agr.state.il.us/isf/competition.html.

Junior Department Livestock and Horse classes are open to 4-H and FFA members. The Dog Show and General 4-H Exhibit classes are open to 4-H members only and delegates are selected at the county 4-H show.

Entries for Horse are due June 9. All other livestock entries are due July 1.

Superior Young Livestock Producer

Youth do not have to show a live animal at the state fair in order to participate in the Superior Young Livestock Producer Contests for horses, swine, beef, dairy, or sheep. Twenty-five $1,000.00 scholarships will be awarded to the top five individuals in each specie contest. 2012 dates and locations are:

Horse – 6:00 p.m., Thursday, July 26th, lower level of Livestock Center

Swine – 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 8th, Livestock Center

Beef – 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 8th, Livestock Center

Sheep – 4:00 p.m., Friday, August 10th, Open Sheep Barn show arena

Dairy – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, August 18th, Livestock Center

For more specific details including registrations and rules visit the Illinois State Fair Premium Book website. www.agr.state.il.us/isf/

State Fair Employment Opportunities

The State Fair Jr. Department Job Application and Job Listings is posted on the Illinois 4-H website Fair & Exhibits page: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/fairsandexhibits.cfm. There are openings for youth ages 14-15 (limited); 16 and over (LOTS) and adults as judges, project assistants, livestock crew, superintendents, and set-up crew. If you are interested, check out the website.

2nd Annual Illinois 4-H State Fair Online

It's not too early to remind members about the additional state judging opportunity that is made available through the 2nd Annual Illinois 4-H State Fair Online event. Members in all project areas are invited to make a video or map to share with a larger public to teach something they've learned in their 4-H project area. Entries are submitted online during the summer. Details on last year's event and entry examples can be viewed at https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/4hstatefaironline/

Club/Group Award Application

State 4-H Club/Group Report Forms, are due to the McLean County Extension Office no later than Friday, August 10. The form is posted at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/volunteers/support_recognition.cfm.

State award-winning clubs will receive state recognition, a state award patch, and $75 if they place in the Top Ten of any of the seven eligible curriculum areas. Applications must be submitted from a club member and a volunteer and must demonstrate youth leadership, project area development, and more.

Service Project Needs Assistance

Hello from the Space Age Pioneers 4H Club. We are planting trees along historic Route 66 in Chenoa, Illinois. Our goal is to plant 66 trees. We are so close to finishing this project. If each club in McLean County donated$5, $10, or even $20we would be one tree closer to our goal and would honor your club for getting us there.Any amount of support is greatly appreciated. If you have any questions feel free to call 815-945-4555 or email spaceagepioneers@gmail.com. Our club address is 227 N First Ave, Chenoa, IL 61726.

Social Media Guide for 4-H

Facebook Terms of Service do not allow for children under age 13 to have accounts. So, while Facebook may be a great way to stay in touch with teens and parents, it's not a good choice for communicating with our youngest program participant's. For guidance on using Facebook and other social media with youth audiences, check out http://ow.ly/8IC8S

Salute to Agriculture

Plan on bringing your 4-H members to the University of Illinois on Saturday, September 15 and help the College of ACES celebrate agriculture! This year's Salute to Agriculture event will include lunch and a football ticket for $15!

Come cheer on the Illini against Charleston Southern! Registration will open mid-summer once kick-off time has been determined. Once open, a link to registration will be found at www.academics.aces.illinois.edu/future-students.

4-H Clover Challenge Grants

Attention 4-Hers, 15 to 18 years* of age - you've put a lot into your 4-H project...now let it pay you back. The 4-H Clover Challenge Grant is an opportunity open to members who have completed all levels of the corn, soybeans, or small grains project OR all levels of a foods, nutrition or animal science project that is tied to the use of corn, soybeans, or small grains. Members will work with a mentor to create two communication presentations using computer presentations, videos, GPS maps, posters, etc. These grants are sponsored by the Illinois Soybean Association and Pioneer Hi-Bred International. Check with the local Extension office for additional information.

(* age as of 9/1/12)

2012 North Central Region Volunteer Forum

Register Now! 2012 North Central Region Volunteer Forum will be held Oct. 11-14, in Wichita, KS. For more information go to: http://www.kansas4-h.org/p.aspx?tabid=314. All 4-H volunteers in the 12 North Central states are welcome to attend. Early bird registration is $200 through July 31.

Statewide 4-H Surveys

This spring, we will be collecting data statewide to answer 3 critical questions:

(1) Are we incorporating the essential elements of positive youth development programming into our 4-H club experiences? We will be asking about 1/3 of our clubs to complete a survey and will analyze the data statewide.

(2) Have we positively influenced youth's aspirations and interest in 4-H Science? Youth attending science rich events for 4-H members are non-members will be asked to participate in the evaluation.

(3) As 4-H members graduate, we want to know how 4-H has influenced their career decisions. 4-H members 17 and 18 years of age will be asked to complete an online survey.

As a statewide team, we are very excited to have information we can share with our stakeholders. If you have any questions regarding the surveys, please contact me.

Volunteers needed for the Barn Quilt Heritage Trail Project

Volunteers are needed to paint quilt blocks on 2 by 2 plywood pieces. The blocks will be put in business windows throughout McLean County to stimulate interest in the "Barn Quilt Heritage Trail – McLean County" project.

Many community organizations are supporting the project already, The Bloomington Downtown Association, The
Museum of History, The Town of Normal, the Hands All Around Quilt Guild, and many farm owners, to name just a few.

Volunteers will be supplied with paint, primedplywood boards cut to size, quilt patterns and paint supplies (and basic instructions only if you need them). Volunteers can choose the quilt pattern and paint colors they want to use.

Please call Karen Gottlieb, 663-4259 or GnWscout@aol.com for more information.

State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest – June 18

The 2012 Illinois State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest will be held Monday June 18th at the University of Illinois Stock Pavilion 1402 West Pennsylvania Avenue, Urbana, IL. Participants must be checked in and registered between 8:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. The contest will start at 10:00 a.m. There will be a $5.00 registration fee for each senior participant to cover his or her lunch.

All participants will evaluate 8 classes of livestock and answer questions on three sets of questions. Senior contestants will give 3 sets of oral reasons after lunch while the junior contestants are released. Each county may enter a total of three four-member teams plus three extra individuals. Those teams can be either two senior teams and one junior team or two junior teams and one senior team. This contest will decide the high county team which will represent Illinois 4-H at the American Royal Livestock Contest in Kansas City, MO. In addition, the top 20 overall seniors will be invited back to a special work out to select the State 4-H Livestock Judging Team. This team will represent Illinois 4-H in November by participating in the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest in Louisville, KY.

Click here for more detailed information on rules, eligibility, resources, and classes.
Click here for registration form.

State 4-H Poultry Judging Contest – August 9

The Illinois State 4-H Poultry Judging Contest will be held Thursday August 9th in conjunction with the Illinois State Fair Junior Poultry show. The contest will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Orr building on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield Illinois.

A county may enter any number of 4-H participants. A county team may be made up of three or four individuals with no limit on the number or teams or individual contestants. The four highest senior 4-H'ers will be selected to participate on the Illinois State 4-H Poultry Judging Team which will represent Illinois in the National 4-H Poultry and Egg Judging Conference during the third week of November in Louisville. KY.

Click here for more detailed information on the contest classes and format.
Click here for registration information.

State 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest – August 18

The 2012 State 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest will be held Saturday August 18th, 2012 in conjunction with the Illinois State Fair. The contest will take place in the Livestock Center at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield Illinois.

Registration is to be made on the day of the contest at the site of the contest. Registration will be from 8:30 am to 9:30 am with the contest starting at 10:00 am. To be eligible for selection, members must have been 14 years of age and not older than 18 years of age as of January 1, 2012. There is no limit on the number of participants per county.

The state 4-H dairy cattle judging team will be selected from participants in this contest. The selected State 4-H Dairy Team will participate at the National Dairy Judging Contest in Madison, Wisconsin. Click here for more contest information and rules.

4-H Program Fee/Club Challenge Update

There is a statewide $20 Program Fee assessed for each 4-Her and Cloverbud. In McLean County, the McLean County Extension Foundation offers support to cover $10 of that fee. 4-H members are responsible for the remaining $10. Many of our clubs work together by doing fundraisers to collect these funds. Check with your club leader to see how your club will be handling the Program Fee.In June, 4-H clubs will be assessed fees for the number of club members they have for the year. Funds raised through the program fee pay for things like project manuals, accident insurance, training for leaders, and state and regional programs and initiatives. If you have more questions about the fee please contact Cathy Blunier at cblunier@illinois.edu.

Quality Assurance & Ethics Certification

This program is no longer mandatory for State Fair exhibition. However, the website is available and all State Fair beef, sheep, swine, horse, dairy, meat goat and poultry exhibitors are encouraged but not required to complete QA&E Certification via this site.

Fair Book is online

If you can't wait to get a printed copy of the McLean County Fair Book, it is available online at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/mclean4hfair/115.html

Save the dates:

June 10-14 – McLean County Week @ 4-H Memorial Camp

August 1-5 – McLean County Fair & 4-H Show

August 9-19 – Illinois State Fair

August 10 – McLean County Exhibit Day at State Fair

August 25 – State Fair Dog Show

Thanks,

Cathy Blunier

Unit Educator, 4-H Youth Development

University of Illinois Extension – Serving Livingston, McLean & Woodford Counties
402 N Hershey Rd
Bloomington IL 61704

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/

cblunier@illinois.edu

phone 309.663.8306 fax 309.663.8270

Happy Friday 4-H Families!

These email updates will come to you every 2 weeks. You can always get these updates on the web at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/

New! Come join us - McLean County 4-H TILT (Teen Interactive Leadership Team); we enjoy working together to explore and develop our leadership abilities.

McLean County TILT is a countywide 4-H leadership program offering teen youth, ages 14-18, opportunities to network with other county 4-H Teens. Youth work together and have fun building leadership skills, planning county wide 4-H events, community service activities, and learn more about 4-H at the county, regional, state and national levels.

A TILT application is available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/39765.pdf. To join TILT fill out the application and return it to the Extension Office by July 2^nd.

New! 4-Hers, 16 and older, are invited to participate in the 2012 4-H ROYALTY CONTEST.

Candidate nominations are due by your club/leader July 2^nd. Let your leader/club know of your interest today! Nomination forms are available at must be completed and turned in by your 4-H leader. Candidates need to be 16 years and older and agree to participate in the activities of the court. As per 4-H Show Royalty Director Connie Moore, and Royalty Superintendents Brian Basting, Brian Dirks and Linda Dirks: "We hope you will get involved and share your enthusiasm about 4-H, by being part of the 4-H Royalty Contest."

Preliminary contest is July 17^th at 7pm at the Extension Office Auditorium- you will meet other 4-H teens, talk one on one to judges in an informal setting and enjoy some snacks.

Candidate dinner Tuesday, July 24^th at 7 pm,. The court members chat in small groups with judges about what is going on in their lives.

The final contest is during 4-H Night, Wednesday, Aug 1^st at the Fair. Dress up, talk about what 4-H means to you for 1 ½ minutes, and answer a couple of questions on your ideas about 4-H and life. Plus, friends and family are there to cheer you on!

Court responsibilities include presenting ribbons to 4-H members, welcoming visitors to the fair, thanking exhibitors, and attending all fair entertainment and shows, while representing 4-H. And a primary goal is to have fun!

New! THANK YOU to all of McLean County's TEN YEAR 4-H Members!

This isHUGE Milestone and we want to recognize your accomplishments at the McLean County Fair, on the "TEN YEAR MILESTONE WALL OF HONOR", to be located just inside the front south entrance to Cloverleaf Hall! Please take a few minutes tell us a little bit about yourself on the Ten Year 4-H Member form, and send it and a digital photo to: aschlapp@illinois.eduor you may bring them into the office.Milestone biographies are due July 26. The form is available on our website at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/43358.pdf

4-H members who have completed 10 or more years of 4-H will be recognized at the Flag Raising Ceremony on Tuesday evening, July 31 at 8:00 PM (All ten year members are encouraged to attend.)

New! Oh the Places You Go...in 4-H!

Bring a flash drive and all your records to get one-on-one assistance from state winners and volunteers with the Illinois 4-H Award Application. You'll be working in a computer lab at Heartland Community College Instructional Commons North Building. Workshops held on Thursday, June 14 6:30-8pm and Thursday, August 9 6:30-8pm. Register online http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/ . Parents are welcome to attend with 4-Hers. Call the Extension office with any additional questions.

New! Warren County Livestock Judging Contest – Saturday, June 2

Warren County Fairgrounds, Roseville. Registration at 8:00 a.m. with contest to begin at 9:00. Junior and Senior Divisions. $5 per person, which includes lunch. For more information, contact Lynn Shimmin at 309-221-1469 or Cassie Link at 309-734-5161.

New! 4-H Members attend Leadership Conference

Aleska Barkoviak and Megan Schwenk recently completed the 2012 Illinois Farm Bureau & Affiliates Premier 20 Leadership Conference, in Bloomington, Ill.

Aleska and Megan, along with other outstanding 4-H and FFA members participated in various leadership and personal development sessions provided by Illinois Farm Bureau & Affiliated Companies. Courses included leadership management, college to career success, working with the media, understanding and dealing with diversity, as well as knowing one's values and discovering passion.

While at the conference, participants also attended a half day communication and team building session at the Challenger Learning Center at Heartland Community College and volunteered at the Midwest Food Bank.

Aleska and Megan were invited to participate in the conference through the 4-H Premier LCP award program. The purpose of the award is to reward members exhibiting outstanding leadership, citizenship, cooperation, and professionalism during the past 4-H program year.

Both the award and the conference are sponsored by the Illinois Farm Bureau, GROWMARK, Inc., COUNTRY Financial, Prairie Farms Dairy, and the IAA Credit Union.

Register now for the McLean County 4-H Shotgun Training Workshop on Saturday, May 26.

Level 1 will from 9:00 - 10:30 AM and Level 2 will be from 11:00 - 12:30 PM. (Participants must have completed a Level 1 Workshop before they may participate in a Level 2 Workshop.) This training will be offered by state certified McLean County 4-H Shooting Sports Instructors. Participants should be 12-18 years old, and will be accepted on a "first registered - first served" basis.

The classes will be held at Darnall's Shooting Range, 7.7 miles southwest of the Interstate Center on IL Rte. 9. Street address is 6125 East 1175 Nort= h Rd. Bloomington, IL 61705-9012. http://darnalls.com/

All equipment will be supplied; a $5.00 FEE for supplies will be collected at the door. This training is held outside, so dress accordingly.

Register online: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6799

Register for Air Rifle Workshops – June 2 – Level 1 at 9 am and Level 2 at 11:00 am

4-H members must attend Level 1 before they can attend Level 2. 4-H members typically attend Level 1 just once, but they are always welcome to attend a second time if they feel that would be helpful. 4-H members are encouraged to attend Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshops) as often as possible to improve their skills. Level 3 will be offered later in the year. Register for the June 2 workshops at: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6616

Additional Air Rifle workshops will be offered on the following dates:

July 7 - Introduction to Air Rifle (Level 1 workshop) at 9:00 am, Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshop) at 11:00 am

September 1 - Introduction to Air Rifle (Level 1 workshop) at 9:00 am, Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshop) at 11:00 am

October 6 - Introduction to Air Rifle (Level 1 workshop) at 9:00 am, Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshop) at 11:00 am

November 3 - Introduction to Air Rifle (Level 1 workshop) at 9:00 am, Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshop) at 11:00 am

Memorial Day Parade

McLean County 4-H clubs can sign up to march in the McLean Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 28. The parade will be held in Bloomington and groups should plan to meet at 8:00 a.m. If your club is interested in being a part of this event contact June Jacobs at daju04@aol.com.

Volunteer Opportunity at UNITY Community Center

If you are a 4-H member between the ages of 16 and 19, a new, volunteer, leadership opportunity is available to you this summer. The UNITY Community Center, which is a University of Illinois-Extension program will hold 3 five day "camps" and one four day camp for the underserved youth of McLean County. If you have experience in photography, robotics, engineering and science, your expertise will help us conduct our program.

Please check out the information and application.

Information: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/43090.pdf

Volunteer Roles and Responsibilities: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/43092.pdf

Volunteer Application: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/43092.pdf

Should you have questions, please contact Carolyn Hansen at 663-8306.

4-H Livestock Judging Contest

University of Illinois Extension - McLean County and the Agriculture Department at Illinois State University will host a Regional 4-H Livestock Judging Contest at the ISU Laboratory Farm located just north and west of Lexington, IL. The contest will be held on Friday, June 8^th starting at 8:45 a.m. For more information: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42916.pdf

McLean County 4-H Horse Competition Preparation Clinics

CLICK HERE to view photos from last year's "Showmanship Clinic".

CLICK HERE to view photos of "Balanced and Controlled Riding 2011".

Get you and your horse ready for the 2012 Show Season!! Participate in ARENA ACTIVITIES or BARN ACTIVITIES. Both available each week!

Please read flier for more details!

Location: Interstate Center, Bloomington

Cost to participate with your horse in the Arena is $10.00* per week, payable at the door. There is a limit of 30 horses for most weeks' arena activities.

Fairgrounds Open 5:00-9:00 Clinics from 6:00-8:00pm

Arena Activities are limited to 30 horses*, so register EARLY!

AUDITING IS FREE! All are Welcome!! Open to all experience levels; pick and choose any or all six weeks.

Please click here to download a copy of the RULES for all participants in these clinics.

It is MANDATORY that All Manure and Trash must be hauled out with your horse.

***All 4-Hers MUST be ACCOMPAINED by a PARENT/ GUARDIAN/ TRAINER at ALL TIMES***
**Liability waivers must be signed upon entering the barn by a parent/guardian. You may download here..***

Proper barn attire required at ALL TIMES.

For Questions please contact Lisa Riddle jpines2388@speednet.com (309)530-7800 or Kate Rodriguez at k_rodrigo@comcast.net (309.261.0786).

3^rd Annual McLean County Fair Golf Outing – June 18

The McLean County Fair and 4-H Show has been a traditions for many years! Enjoy fun, friends and a round of golf to help support the tradition of excellence. For more information: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/43167.pdf

If 4-H members have items (possibly related to a project they have taken) to donate to the raffle, please contact Shawn Hoeft at 309-242-2635 or shawn.hoeft@gmail.com

Volunteers needed for "Meet a Farmer Day" at the Children's Discovery Museum

4-H members and their families are invited to "Meet a Farmer Day" at the Children's Discovery Museum in Normal on Saturday, June 16. This special day is part of an Illinois Farm Families® activity that will bring area farmers and 4-H youth in to the museum to interact with visiting families. Youth (ages 12 and up) are needed to help with hands-on children's activities in the agriculture exhibit area on the second floor. If you enjoy helping young children with games and telling your farm story, please join us! Volunteers are needed for shifts from 10 – 11 a.m., 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., and 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. Contact event coordinator, Trista Gropp at tgropp@morganmyers.com by May 23 if you are interested in volunteering. We'll need to know: volunteer names and ages, your email address, and shift(s) you'd like to work. We'll get in touch with you as the event gets closer with all the final details. Thanks in advance for being a part of this special event.

McLean County Pork Producers Scholarship

Any McLean County High School senior who has raised or shown hogs for at least 5 years and/or is a member of a family who are active members of the McLean County Pork Producers may apply for a scholarship. More information is available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42915.pdf Applications are available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42914.pdf and are due June 15.

Calling Illinois 4-H Teens!! Leadership Opportunities Available

Applications for three state level youth leadership opportunities are available on the 4-H website.

Illinois Farm Bureau Youth Education Committee 4-H Representatives

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/leadership_ifbye.cfm.

Application deadline is June 15.

Illinois State 4-H Youth Leadership Team

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/leadership_sylt.cfm.

Applications will be due June 15 for interviews at the Illini Summer Academies or August 1 for interviews at State Fair.

2013 Illini Summer Academies Planning Committee - Due July 15.

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/leadership_isapc.cfm.

Food Demonstration Clinic – June 26 Register online for the Mclean County Food Demonstration Clinic on June 26 at 6:00 p.m. at the Extension Office. If you are a 4-Her planning to do a food demonstration for the 4-H show it is strongly recommended that you attend the clinic. Bring questions pertaining to your food demonstration. An example demonstration will be presented along with a hands-on workshop and many tips to prepare you for giving a proper food demonstration. Register online at: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6795

State Fair Premium Book Available

The Illinois State Fair as posted Premium Books on their website for the 2012 Illinois State Fair: http://www.agr.state.il.us/isf/competition.html.

Junior Department Livestock and Horse classes are open to 4-H and FFA members. The Dog Show and General 4-H Exhibit classes are open to 4-H members only and delegates are selected at the county 4-H show.

Entries for Horse are due June 9. All other livestock entries are due July 1.

Superior Young Livestock Producer

Youth do not have to show a live animal at the state fair in order to participate in the Superior Young Livestock Producer Contests for horses, swine, beef, dairy, or sheep. Twenty-five $1,000.00 scholarships will be awarded to the top five individuals in each specie contest. 2012 dates and locations are:

Horse – 6:00 p.m., Thursday, July 26th, lower level of Livestock Center

Swine – 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 8th, Livestock Center

Beef – 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 8th, Livestock Center

Sheep – 4:00 p.m., Friday, August 10th, Open Sheep Barn show arena

Dairy – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, August 18th, Livestock Center

For more specific details including registrations and rules visit the Illinois State Fair Premium Book website. www.agr.state.il.us/isf/

2012 State Fair Alerts!

Tentatively 4-H judging will be held in 4 major locations on the fairgrounds. Judging schedules will be divided between morning and afternoon to accommodate project areas. Final locations will be identified in mid-July.

Horticulture & Floriculture – Emerson Building East Wing

Fashion Revue (4 days) and Public Presentations (2 days) – IL Bldg Theater

Natural Resources, Woodworking, Welding (1 day only), Forestry, Small

Engines, Wildlife, & Tractor – 4-H Tents (MOVED to old Happy Hollow area)

All Other Exhibits (inc. 2 days of Public Presentations) – Expo Bldg Mezzanine

Due to the space changes, Foods Demonstration and Club/Group Action Presentation classes will NOT be offered at the 2012 State Fair. Exhibitors are encouraged to park in General/Public Parking (Gate 6) vs. our usual 4-H Lot (Gate 8) because it is closer to the Exposition Building. More details later.

State Fair Employment Opportunities

The State Fair Jr. Department Job Application and Job Listings is posted on the Illinois 4-H website Fair & Exhibits page: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/fairsandexhibits.cfm. There are openings for youth ages 14-15 (limited); 16 and over (LOTS) and adults as judges, project assistants, livestock crew, superintendents, and set-up crew. If you are interested, check out the website.

2nd Annual Illinois 4-H State Fair Online

It's not too early to remind members about the additional state judging opportunity that is made available through the 2nd Annual Illinois 4-H State Fair Online event. Members in all project areas are invited to make a video or map to share with a larger public to teach something they've learned in their 4-H project area. Entries are submitted online during the summer. Details on last year's event and entry examples can be viewed at https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/4hstatefaironline/

Club/Group Award Application

State 4-H Club/Group Report Forms, are due to the McLean County Extension Office no later than Friday, August 10. The form is posted at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/volunteers/support_recognition.cfm.

State award-winning clubs will receive state recognition, a state award patch, and $75 if they place in the Top Ten of any of the seven eligible curriculum areas. Applications must be submitted from a club member and a volunteer and must demonstrate youth leadership, project area development, and more.

Service Project Needs Assistance

Hello from the Space Age Pioneers 4H Club. We are planting trees along historic Route 66 in Chenoa, Illinois. Our goal is to plant 66 trees. We are so close to finishing this project. If each club in McLean County donated$5, $10, or even $20we would be one tree closer to our goal and would honor your club for getting us there.Any amount of support is greatly appreciated. If you have any questions feel free to call 815-945-4555 or email spaceagepioneers@gmail.com. Our club address is 227 N First Ave, Chenoa, IL 61726.

Social Media Guide for 4-H

Facebook Terms of Service do not allow for children under age 13 to have accounts. So, while Facebook may be a great way to stay in touch with teens and parents, it's not a good choice for communicating with our youngest program participant's. For guidance on using Facebook and other social media with youth audiences, check out http://ow.ly/8IC8S

Salute to Agriculture

Plan on bringing your 4-H members to the University of Illinois on Saturday, September 15 and help the College of ACES celebrate agriculture! This year's Salute to Agriculture event will include lunch and a football ticket for $15!

Come cheer on the Illini against Charleston Southern! Registration will open mid-summer once kick-off time has been determined. Once open, a link to registration will be found at www.academics.aces.illinois.edu/future-students.

4-H Clover Challenge Grants

Attention 4-Hers, 15 to 18 years* of age - you've put a lot into your 4-H project...now let it pay you back. The 4-H Clover Challenge Grant is an opportunity open to members who have completed all levels of the corn, soybeans, or small grains project OR all levels of a foods, nutrition or animal science project that is tied to the use of corn, soybeans, or small grains. Members will work with a mentor to create two communication presentations using computer presentations, videos, GPS maps, posters, etc. These grants are sponsored by the Illinois Soybean Association and Pioneer Hi-Bred International. Check with the local Extension office for additional information.

(* age as of 9/1/12)

2012 North Central Region Volunteer Forum

Register Now! 2012 North Central Region Volunteer Forum will be held Oct. 11-14, in Wichita, KS. For more information go to: http://www.kansas4-h.org/p.aspx?tabid=314. All 4-H volunteers in the 12 North Central states are welcome to attend. Early bird registration is $200 through July 31.

Statewide 4-H Surveys

This spring, we will be collecting data statewide to answer 3 critical questions:

(1) Are we incorporating the essential elements of positive youth development programming into our 4-H club experiences? We will be asking about 1/3 of our clubs to complete a survey and will analyze the data statewide.

(2) Have we positively influenced youth's aspirations and interest in 4-H Science? Youth attending science rich events for 4-H members are non-members will be asked to participate in the evaluation.

(3) As 4-H members graduate, we want to know how 4-H has influenced their career decisions. 4-H members 17 and 18 years of age will be asked to complete an online survey.

As a statewide team, we are very excited to have information we can share with our stakeholders. If you have any questions regarding the surveys, please contact me.

Volunteers needed for the Barn Quilt Heritage Trail Project

Volunteers are needed to paint quilt blocks on 2 by 2 plywood pieces. The blocks will be put in business windows throughout McLean County to stimulate interest in the "Barn Quilt Heritage Trail – McLean County" project.

Many community organizations are supporting the project already, The Bloomington Downtown Association, The
Museum of History, The Town of Normal, the Hands All Around Quilt Guild, and many farm owners, to name just a few.

Volunteers will be supplied with paint, primedplywood boards cut to size, quilt patterns and paint supplies (and basic instructions only if you need them). Volunteers can choose the quilt pattern and paint colors they want to use.

Please call Karen Gottlieb, 663-4259 or GnWscout@aol.com for more information.

State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest – June 18

The 2012 Illinois State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest will be held Monday June 18th at the University of Illinois Stock Pavilion 1402 West Pennsylvania Avenue, Urbana, IL. Participants must be checked in and registered between 8:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. The contest will start at 10:00 a.m. There will be a $5.00 registration fee for each senior participant to cover his or her lunch.

All participants will evaluate 8 classes of livestock and answer questions on three sets of questions. Senior contestants will give 3 sets of oral reasons after lunch while the junior contestants are released. Each county may enter a total of three four-member teams plus three extra individuals. Those teams can be either two senior teams and one junior team or two junior teams and one senior team. This contest will decide the high county team which will represent Illinois 4-H at the American Royal Livestock Contest in Kansas City, MO. In addition, the top 20 overall seniors will be invited back to a special work out to select the State 4-H Livestock Judging Team. This team will represent Illinois 4-H in November by participating in the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest in Louisville, KY.

Click here for more detailed information on rules, eligibility, resources, and classes.
Click here for registration form.

State 4-H Poultry Judging Contest – August 9

The Illinois State 4-H Poultry Judging Contest will be held Thursday August 9th in conjunction with the Illinois State Fair Junior Poultry show. The contest will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Orr building on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield Illinois.

A county may enter any number of 4-H participants. A county team may be made up of three or four individuals with no limit on the number or teams or individual contestants. The four highest senior 4-H'ers will be selected to participate on the Illinois State 4-H Poultry Judging Team which will represent Illinois in the National 4-H Poultry and Egg Judging Conference during the third week of November in Louisville. KY.

Click here for more detailed information on the contest classes and format.
Click here for registration information.

State 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest – August 18

The 2012 State 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest will be held Saturday August 18th, 2012 in conjunction with the Illinois State Fair. The contest will take place in the Livestock Center at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield Illinois.

Registration is to be made on the day of the contest at the site of the contest. Registration will be from 8:30 am to 9:30 am with the contest starting at 10:00 am. To be eligible for selection, members must have been 14 years of age and not older than 18 years of age as of January 1, 2012. There is no limit on the number of participants per county.

The state 4-H dairy cattle judging team will be selected from participants in this contest. The selected State 4-H Dairy Team will participate at the National Dairy Judging Contest in Madison, Wisconsin. Click here for more contest information and rules.

State 4-H Horse Judging Contest

The State 4-H Horse Judging Contest will be held at Black Hawk College – East Campus Horse Arena on Saturday, May 5. Registration and contest start time are still TBA. Mark your calendar and watch for more information to come.

4-H Program Fee/Club Challenge Update

There is a statewide $20 Program Fee assessed for each 4-Her and Cloverbud. In McLean County, the McLean County Extension Foundation offers support to cover $10 of that fee. 4-H members are responsible for the remaining $10. Many of our clubs work together by doing fundraisers to collect these funds. Check with your club leader to see how your club will be handling the Program Fee.In June, 4-H clubs will be assessed fees for the number of club members they have for the year. Funds raised through the program fee pay for things like project manuals, accident insurance, training for leaders, and state and regional programs and initiatives. If you have more questions about the fee please contact Cathy Blunier at cblunier@illinois.edu.

Quality Assurance & Ethics Certification

This program is no longer mandatory for State Fair exhibition. However, the website should be available February 1, 2012. All State Fair beef, sheep, swine, horse, dairy, meat goat and poultry exhibitors are encouraged but not required to complete QA&E Certification via this site.

Fair Book is online

If you can't wait to get a printed copy of the McLean County Fair Book, it is available online at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/mclean4hfair/115.html

Save the dates:

June 10-14 – McLean County Week @ 4-H Memorial Camp

August 1-5 – McLean County Fair & 4-H Show

August 9-19 – Illinois State Fair

August 10 – McLean County Exhibit Day at State Fair

August 25 – State Fair Dog Show

Thanks,

Cathy Blunier

Unit Educator, 4-H Youth Development

University of Illinois Extension – Serving Livingston, McLean & Woodford Counties
402 N Hershey Rd
Bloomington IL 61704

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/

cblunier@illinois.edu

phone 309.663.8306 fax 309.663.8270

Happy Friday 4-H Families!

These email updates will come to you every 2 weeks. You can always get these updates on the web at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/

2^nd Annual Go & Grow 5K Race and Family Fun Event – May 12

The IAA Foundation 5K Race and family fun event supports Illinois Ag in the Classroom, a program providing free resources to teachers in an effort to help students make the connection between food, fiber, fuel and farming. It would be great to see our 4-H clubs support this event! For more information: http://www.iaafoundation.org/iaaf/Events/growandgo.htm

To register: http://www.iaafoundation.org/iaafoundation/foundationforms/5k_form.asp

Oh, the Places You'll Go in 4-H! First Stop – Rescheduled for May 24 - 6:30-8:00 pm

Originally planned for April 26, the Second Stop is rescheduled for Thursday, May 24. Please register online.

Take the next step with 4-H records and see how the 4-H Project Report forms and My 4-H Activities forms can transition to the Illinois 4-H Award Application that is used to compete for County and State awards. Learn the difference between participation, leadership and community service. Get started on filling out the Illinois 4-H Award Application. This workshop is designed for 4-H members 12 years and older, parents and leaders. Program will be held at the Extension Office.

New! Register now for the McLean County 4-H Shotgun Training Workshop on Saturday, May 26.

Level 1 will from 9:00 - 10:30 AM and Level 2 will be from 11:00 - 12:30 PM. (Participants must have completed a Level 1 Workshop before they may participate in a Level 2 Workshop.) This training will be offered by state certified McLean County 4-H Shooting Sports Instructors. Participants should be 12-18 years old, and will be accepted on a "first registered - first served" basis.

The classes will be held at Darnall's Shooting Range, 7.7 miles southwest of the Interstate Center on IL Rte. 9. Street address is 6125 East 1175 Nort= h Rd. Bloomington, IL 61705-9012. http://darnalls.com/

All equipment will be supplied; a $5.00 FEE for supplies will be collected at the door. This training is held outside, so dress accordingly.

Register online: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6799

New! Register for Air Rifle Workshops – June 2 – Level 1 at 9 am and Level 2 at 11:00 am

4-H members must attend Level 1 before they can attend Level 2. 4-H members typically attend Level 1 just once, but they are always welcome to attend a second time if they feel that would be helpful. 4-H members are encouraged to attend Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshops) as often as possible to improve their skills. Level 3 will be offered later in the year. Register for the June 2 workshops at: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6616

Additional Air Rifle workshops will be offered on the following dates:

July 7 - Introduction to Air Rifle (Level 1 workshop) at 9:00 am, Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshop) at 11:00 am

September 1 - Introduction to Air Rifle (Level 1 workshop) at 9:00 am, Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshop) at 11:00 am

October 6 - Introduction to Air Rifle (Level 1 workshop) at 9:00 am, Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshop) at 11:00 am

November 3 - Introduction to Air Rifle (Level 1 workshop) at 9:00 am, Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshop) at 11:00 am

New! Memorial Day Parade

McLean County 4-H clubs can sign up to march in the McLean Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 28. The parade will be held in Bloomington and groups should plan to meet at 8:00 a.m. If your club is interested in being a part of this event contact June Jacobs at daju04@aol.com.

New! Volunteer Opportunity at UNITY Community Center

If you are a 4-H member between the ages of 16 and 19, a new, volunteer, leadership opportunity is available to you this summer. The UNITY Community Center, which is a University of Illinois-Extension program will hold 3 five day "camps" and one four day camp for the underserved youth of McLean County. If you have experience in photography, robotics, engineering and science, your expertise will help us conduct our program.

Please check out the information and application.

Information: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/43090.pdf

Volunteer Roles and Responsibilities: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/43092.pdf

Volunteer Application: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/43092.pdf

Should you have questions, please contact Carolyn Hansen at 663-8306.

4-H Livestock Judging Contest

University of Illinois Extension - McLean County and the Agriculture Department at Illinois State University will host a Regional 4-H Livestock Judging Contest at the ISU Laboratory Farm located just north and west of Lexington, IL. The contest will be held on Friday, June 8^th starting at 8:45 a.m. For more information: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42916.pdf

McLean County 4-H Horse Competition Preparation Clinics

CLICK HERE to view photos from last year's "Showmanship Clinic".

CLICK HERE to view photos of "Balanced and Controlled Riding 2011".

Get you and your horse ready for the 2012 Show Season!! Participate in ARENA ACTIVITIES or BARN ACTIVITIES. Both available each week!

Please read flier for more details!

Location: Interstate Center, Bloomington

Cost to participate with your horse in the Arena is $10.00* per week, payable at the door. There is a limit of 30 horses for most weeks' arena activities.

Fairgrounds Open 5:00-9:00 Clinics from 6:00-8:00pm

Arena Activities are limited to 30 horses*, so register EARLY!

AUDITING IS FREE! All are Welcome!! Open to all experience levels; pick and choose any or all six weeks.

Please click here to download a copy of the RULES for all participants in these clinics.

It is MANDATORY that All Manure and Trash must be hauled out with your horse.

***All 4-Hers MUST be ACCOMPAINED by a PARENT/ GUARDIAN/ TRAINER at ALL TIMES***
**Liability waivers must be signed upon entering the barn by a parent/guardian. You may download here..***

Proper barn attire required at ALL TIMES.

For Questions please contact Lisa Riddle jpines2388@speednet.com (309)530-7800 or Kate Rodriguez at k_rodrigo@comcast.net (309.261.0786).

4-H Night with the Normal CornBelters – June 15

Mark Friday, June 15 on your calendar for 4-H Night with the CornBelters. Download a ticket order form at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/41837.pdf

Conservation Youth Day hosted by Prairielands Preservation Foundation

On Saturday, June 16 (1-4 pm), 4-H members are invited to a youth conservation day to be held in the Picnic Area at Comlara Park, Evergreen Lake, which is located west of Exit 8 from I-39. All youth ages 8-21 are invited, so bring a friend.

This fun day of conservation activities will include Sport Fishing, Wildlife Habitats, Forestry, Natural Resources, Plants and Soils. Contact Prairielands Preservation Foundation at 309-452-9124 with questions or to volunteer to help. www.prairielandspreservationfoundation.org

New! 3^rd Annual McLean County Fair Golf Outing – June 18

The McLean County Fair and 4-H Show has been a traditions for many years! Enjoy fun, friends and a round of golf to help support the tradition of excellence. For more information: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/43167.pdf

If 4-H members have items (possibly related to a project they have taken) to donate to the raffle, please contact Shawn Hoeft at 309-242-2635 or shawn.hoeft@gmail.com

New! Volunteers needed for "Meet a Farmer Day" at the Children's Discovery Museum

4-H members and their families are invited to "Meet a Farmer Day" at the Children's Discovery Museum in Normal on Saturday, June 16. This special day is part of an Illinois Farm Families® activity that will bring area farmers and 4-H youth in to the museum to interact with visiting families. Youth (ages 12 and up) are needed to help with hands-on children's activities in the agriculture exhibit area on the second floor. If you enjoy helping young children with games and telling your farm story, please join us! Volunteers are needed for shifts from 10 – 11 a.m., 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., and 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. Contact event coordinator, Trista Gropp at tgropp@morganmyers.com by May 23 if you are interested in volunteering. We'll need to know: volunteer names and ages, your email address, and shift(s) you'd like to work. We'll get in touch with you as the event gets closer with all the final details. Thanks in advance for being a part of this special event.

New! McLean County Pork Producers Scholarship

Any McLean County High School senior who has raised or shown hogs for at least 5 years and/or is a member of a family who are active members of the McLean County Pork Producers may apply for a scholarship. More information is available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42915.pdf Applications are available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42914.pdf and are due June 15.

New! Calling Illinois 4-H Teens!! Leadership Opportunities Available

Applications for three state level youth leadership opportunities are available on the 4-H website.

Illinois Farm Bureau Youth Education Committee 4-H Representatives

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/leadership_ifbye.cfm.

Application deadline is June 15.

Illinois State 4-H Youth Leadership Team

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/leadership_sylt.cfm.

Applications will be due June 15 for interviews at the Illini Summer Academies or August 1 for interviews at State Fair.

2013 Illini Summer Academies Planning Committee - Due July 15.

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/leadership_isapc.cfm.

New! Food Demonstration Clinic – June 26 Register online for the Mclean County Food Demonstration Clinic on June 26 at 6:00 p.m. at the Extension Office. If you are a 4-Her planning to do a food demonstration for the 4-H show it is strongly recommended that you attend the clinic. Bring questions pertaining to your food demonstration. An example demonstration will be presented along with a hands-on workshop and many tips to prepare you for giving a proper food demonstration. Register online at: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6795

New! State Fair Premium Book Available

The Illinois State Fair as posted Premium Books on their website for the 2012 Illinois State Fair: http://www.agr.state.il.us/isf/competition.html.

Junior Department Livestock and Horse classes are open to 4-H and FFA members. The Dog Show and General 4-H Exhibit classes are open to 4-H members only and delegates are selected at the county 4-H show.

Entries for Horse are due June 9. All other livestock entries are due July 1.

New! Superior Young Livestock Producer

Youth do not have to show a live animal at the state fair in order to participate in the Superior Young Livestock Producer Contests for horses, swine, beef, dairy, or sheep. Twenty-five $1,000.00 scholarships will be awarded to the top five individuals in each specie contest. 2012 dates and locations are:

Horse – 6:00 p.m., Thursday, July 26th, lower level of Livestock Center

Swine – 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 8th, Livestock Center

Beef – 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 8th, Livestock Center

Sheep – 4:00 p.m., Friday, August 10th, Open Sheep Barn show arena

Dairy – 2:30 p.m., Saturday, August 18th, Livestock Center

For more specific details including registrations and rules visit the Illinois State Fair Premium Book website. www.agr.state.il.us/isf/

New! 2012 State Fair Alerts!

Tentatively 4-H judging will be held in 4 major locations on the fairgrounds. Judging schedules will be divided between morning and afternoon to accommodate project areas. Final locations will be identified in mid-July.

Horticulture & Floriculture – Emerson Building East Wing

Fashion Revue (4 days) and Public Presentations (2 days) – IL Bldg Theater

Natural Resources, Woodworking, Welding (1 day only), Forestry, Small

Engines, Wildlife, & Tractor – 4-H Tents (MOVED to old Happy Hollow area)

All Other Exhibits (inc. 2 days of Public Presentations) – Expo Bldg Mezzanine

Due to the space changes, Foods Demonstration and Club/Group Action Presentation classes will NOT be offered at the 2012 State Fair. Exhibitors are encouraged to park in General/Public Parking (Gate 6) vs. our usual 4-H Lot (Gate 8) because it is closer to the Exposition Building. More details later.

State Fair Employment Opportunities

The State Fair Jr. Department Job Application and Job Listings is posted on the Illinois 4-H website Fair & Exhibits page: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/fairsandexhibits.cfm. There are openings for youth ages 14-15 (limited); 16 and over (LOTS) and adults as judges, project assistants, livestock crew, superintendents, and set-up crew. If you are interested, check out the website.

2nd Annual Illinois 4-H State Fair Online

It's not too early to remind members about the additional state judging opportunity that is made available through the 2nd Annual Illinois 4-H State Fair Online event. Members in all project areas are invited to make a video or map to share with a larger public to teach something they've learned in their 4-H project area. Entries are submitted online during the summer. Details on last year's event and entry examples can be viewed at https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/4hstatefaironline/

New! Club/Group Award Application

State 4-H Club/Group Report Forms, are due to the McLean County Extension Office no later than Friday, August 10. The form is posted at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/volunteers/support_recognition.cfm.

State award-winning clubs will receive state recognition, a state award patch, and $75 if they place in the Top Ten of any of the seven eligible curriculum areas. Applications must be submitted from a club member and a volunteer and must demonstrate youth leadership, project area development, and more.

New! Salute to Agriculture

Plan on bringing your 4-H members to the University of Illinois on Saturday, September 15 and help the College of ACES celebrate agriculture! This year's Salute to Agriculture event will include lunch and a football ticket for $15!

Come cheer on the Illini against Charleston Southern! Registration will open mid-summer once kick-off time has been determined. Once open, a link to registration will be found at www.academics.aces.illinois.edu/future-students.

New! Social Media Guide for 4-H

Facebook Terms of Service do not allow for children under age 13 to have accounts. So, while Facebook may be a great way to stay in touch with teens and parents, it's not a good choice for communicating with our youngest program participant's. For guidance on using Facebook and other social media with youth audiences, check out http://ow.ly/8IC8S

New! Service Project Needs Assistance

Hello from the Space Age Pioneers 4H Club. We are planting trees along historic Route 66 in Chenoa, Illinois. Our goal is to plant 66 trees. We are so close to finishing this project. If each club in McLean County donated$5, $10, or even $20we would be one tree closer to our goal and would honor your club for getting us there.Any amount of support is greatly appreciated. If you have any questions feel free to call 815-945-4555 or email spaceagepioneers@gmail.com. Our club address is 227 N First Ave, Chenoa, IL 61726.

New! 4-H Clover Challenge Grants

Attention 4-Hers, 15 to 18 years* of age - you've put a lot into your 4-H project...now let it pay you back. The 4-H Clover Challenge Grant is an opportunity open to members who have completed all levels of the corn, soybeans, or small grains project OR all levels of a foods, nutrition or animal science project that is tied to the use of corn, soybeans, or small grains. Members will work with a mentor to create two communication presentations using computer presentations, videos, GPS maps, posters, etc. These grants are sponsored by the Illinois Soybean Association and Pioneer Hi-Bred International. Check with the local Extension office for additional information.

(* age as of 9/1/12)

New! 2012 North Central Region Volunteer Forum

Register Now! 2012 North Central Region Volunteer Forum will be held Oct. 11-14, in Wichita, KS. For more information go to: http://www.kansas4-h.org/p.aspx?tabid=314. All 4-H volunteers in the 12 North Central states are welcome to attend. Early bird registration is $200 through July 31.

New! Statewide 4-H Surveys

This spring, we will be collecting data statewide to answer 3 critical questions:

(1) Are we incorporating the essential elements of positive youth development programming into our 4-H club experiences? We will be asking about 1/3 of our clubs to complete a survey and will analyze the data statewide.

(2) Have we positively influenced youth's aspirations and interest in 4-H Science? Youth attending science rich events for 4-H members are non-members will be asked to participate in the evaluation.

(3) As 4-H members graduate, we want to know how 4-H has influenced their career decisions. 4-H members 17 and 18 years of age will be asked to complete an online survey.

As a statewide team, we are very excited to have information we can share with our stakeholders. If you have any questions regarding the surveys, please contact me.

Volunteers needed for the Barn Quilt Heritage Trail Project

Volunteers are needed to paint quilt blocks on 2 by 2 plywood pieces. The blocks will be put in business windows throughout McLean County to stimulate interest in the "Barn Quilt Heritage Trail – McLean County" project.

Many community organizations are supporting the project already, The Bloomington Downtown Association, The
Museum of History, The Town of Normal, the Hands All Around Quilt Guild, and many farm owners, to name just a few.

Volunteers will be supplied with paint, primedplywood boards cut to size, quilt patterns and paint supplies (and basic instructions only if you need them). Volunteers can choose the quilt pattern and paint colors they want to use.

Please call Karen Gottlieb, 663-4259 or GnWscout@aol.com for more information.

State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest – June 18

The 2012 Illinois State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest will be held Monday June 18th at the University of Illinois Stock Pavilion 1402 West Pennsylvania Avenue, Urbana, IL. Participants must be checked in and registered between 8:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. The contest will start at 10:00 a.m. There will be a $5.00 registration fee for each senior participant to cover his or her lunch.

All participants will evaluate 8 classes of livestock and answer questions on three sets of questions. Senior contestants will give 3 sets of oral reasons after lunch while the junior contestants are released. Each county may enter a total of three four-member teams plus three extra individuals. Those teams can be either two senior teams and one junior team or two junior teams and one senior team. This contest will decide the high county team which will represent Illinois 4-H at the American Royal Livestock Contest in Kansas City, MO. In addition, the top 20 overall seniors will be invited back to a special work out to select the State 4-H Livestock Judging Team. This team will represent Illinois 4-H in November by participating in the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest in Louisville, KY.

Click here for more detailed information on rules, eligibility, resources, and classes.
Click here for registration form.

State 4-H Poultry Judging Contest – August 9

The Illinois State 4-H Poultry Judging Contest will be held Thursday August 9th in conjunction with the Illinois State Fair Junior Poultry show. The contest will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Orr building on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield Illinois.

A county may enter any number of 4-H participants. A county team may be made up of three or four individuals with no limit on the number or teams or individual contestants. The four highest senior 4-H'ers will be selected to participate on the Illinois State 4-H Poultry Judging Team which will represent Illinois in the National 4-H Poultry and Egg Judging Conference during the third week of November in Louisville. KY.

Click here for more detailed information on the contest classes and format.
Click here for registration information.

State 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest – August 18

The 2012 State 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest will be held Saturday August 18th, 2012 in conjunction with the Illinois State Fair. The contest will take place in the Livestock Center at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield Illinois.

Registration is to be made on the day of the contest at the site of the contest. Registration will be from 8:30 am to 9:30 am with the contest starting at 10:00 am. To be eligible for selection, members must have been 14 years of age and not older than 18 years of age as of January 1, 2012. There is no limit on the number of participants per county.

The state 4-H dairy cattle judging team will be selected from participants in this contest. The selected State 4-H Dairy Team will participate at the National Dairy Judging Contest in Madison, Wisconsin. Click here for more contest information and rules.

State 4-H Horse Judging Contest

The State 4-H Horse Judging Contest will be held at Black Hawk College – East Campus Horse Arena on Saturday, May 5. Registration and contest start time are still TBA. Mark your calendar and watch for more information to come.

Youth LEADS

Youth LEADS is a leadership and community development program for High School Classes of 2013 and 2014 in McLean County. This program is brought to you by the McLean County Community Compact and University of Illinois Extension.

Youth LEADS is a 4-H Leadership SPIN Club that focuses on developing future leaders and fostering an awareness and understanding of important issues within the community. The program provides a forum in which future leaders have the opportunity to interact with local community, business, and government leaders and develop important life skills outside of the classroom.

All sessions will be held from 9:00 to 12:00 in June, 2012. More details and a registration form are available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/mclean4h/3434.html

State 4-H Youth Leadership Team Looking for New Members

The Illinois State 4-H Youth Leadership Team is starting to recruit older Illinois 4-H members and recent 4-H alumni to apply and interview for the 2012-2014 term. They are looking for 4-H teens that have demonstrated leadership abilities and are willing to step forward and assist with programming on the statewide level.

Information regarding the Youth Leadership Team and their activities, along with the YLT application, is available on the Youth Leadership Team page of the 4-H website: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/leadership_sylt.cfm. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age by September 1, 2012 (and no older than 19 by that date) in order to apply. They will be interviewing to fill 3-8 positions on the team from teens from across the state.

Applications are due at two times during the summer, depending on when the member wants to interview. Interviews at the Illini Summer Academies require applications be sent to the State 4-H Office no later than June 15. For interviews during State Fair (August 10-14), applications are due by August 1.

State Fair Lamb and Goat Tattoo and Weigh-in Locations

These are the only locations that 4-H members can weigh sheep and goats that will possibly be shown at this year's state fair. http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42295.pdf Tattooing was held at the McLean County Fairgrounds on May 5.

Dog Obedience/Agility Dates Set for 2012

For more information: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42352.pdf

Location: Interstate Center

Training Dates: 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14, 5/21, 6/4, 6/11, 6/18

Fee: $10 for 12 week class session

Must bring: Copy of current rabies vaccination for 4-H staff to keep.

Instructors: McLean County Fair Dog Superintendents

Illini Summer Academy Registration is Open!

We are extremely excited to announce plans for the upcoming 2012 Illini Summer Academies (ISA). There will be 11 Academies this year - up 3 from last year and introducing 4 NEW Academies.

ISA is our summer teen "conference" that takes place on the University of Illinois Champaign/Urbana campus. It is open to ALL Illinois high school teens - it is not limited to 4-H members. It will start on Sunday afternoon, June 24 and continue through Wednesday afternoon, June 27. High school teens from across the state will participate in 15-hours of college department Academies, exploring a college major and potential careers with hands-on work in labs, classrooms, and field trips. The Leadership Academy will focus on Youth and Adult Partnerships this year and encourage adult participation for one day of the 3-day Academy.

2012 ISA Academy Options include:
* Aerospace Engineering
* Agricultural & Biological Engineering
* Art & Design
* Bioengineering
* Crop Sciences
* Electrical & Computer Engineering
* Landscape Architecture & Urban Planning
* Leadership
* Molecular & Cellular Biology
* Physics
* Veterinary Medicine

Registration is open via the ISA website page: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/events/summeracademies.cfm. Registration MUST be completed on-line. Academies fill on a first-come, first-served basis. Some Academies do have grade restrictions because of needed high school class requirements and the nature of their Academy topics, however most are open to teens ages 14-18, as of 9/1/2012. Some Academies do not allow repeat attendees. Final registration will close May 23.

4-H Program Fee/Club Challenge Update

There is a statewide $20 Program Fee assessed for each 4-Her and Cloverbud. In McLean County, the McLean County Extension Foundation offers support to cover $10 of that fee. 4-H members are responsible for the remaining $10. Many of our clubs work together by doing fundraisers to collect these funds. Check with your club leader to see how your club will be handling the Program Fee.In June, 4-H clubs will be assessed fees for the number of club members they have for the year. Funds raised through the program fee pay for things like project manuals, accident insurance, training for leaders, and state and regional programs and initiatives. If you have more questions about the fee please contact Cathy Blunier at cblunier@illinois.edu.

Quality Assurance & Ethics Certification

This program is no longer mandatory for State Fair exhibition. However, the website should be available February 1, 2012. All State Fair beef, sheep, swine, horse, dairy, meat goat and poultry exhibitors are encouraged but not required to complete QA&E Certification via this site.

Fair Book is online

If you can't wait to get a printed copy of the McLean County Fair Book, it is available online at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/mclean4hfair/115.html

Save the dates:

June 10-14 – McLean County Week @ 4-H Memorial Camp

August 1-5 – McLean County Fair & 4-H Show

August 9-19 – Illinois State Fair

August 10 – McLean County Exhibit Day at State Fair

August 25 – State Fair Dog Show

Thanks,

Cathy Blunier

Unit Educator, 4-H Youth Development

University of Illinois Extension – Serving Livingston, McLean & Woodford Counties
402 N Hershey Rd
Bloomington IL 61704

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/

cblunier@illinois.edu

phone 309.663.8306 fax 309.663.8270

Happy Friday 4-H Families!

These email updates will come to you every 2 weeks. You can always get these updates on the web at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/

New! 4-H Enrollment Forms due May 1
Youth may join 4-H at any time; however, in order to exhibit at the McLean County Fair, 4-H enrollment forms must be turned in to the Extension Office or postmarked by May 1.

4-H Memorial Camp
Register by May 1 – only about 10 spaces still available!
June 10-14 will be McLean County's week at 4-H Memorial Camp in Monticello. Registration forms are available at the Extension Office and online at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/mclean4h/2120.html McLean County is allocated 80 registrations on a first come, first serve basis. If you are unable to attend during McLean County's week, you may register for another week by calling the camp office at 217-762-2741.

The full fee for 4-H Summer Camp for 2012 will be $175/camper. However, the fee for current year 4-Her's that register through their local Extension Office for their designated week will be discounted to $160/camper. 4-Her's that choose to attend camp outside their scheduled week (those that register directly with the 4-H Camp office) will be charged the full fee of $175. Any non-4-Her's that register either through the local Extension Office or register directly with the 4-H Camp office will be charged the full fee of $175. Fifteen dollar sibling discounts will again be continued for 2012.

New! Fair Book is online
If you can't wait to get a printed copy of the Fair Book, it is available online at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/mclean4hfair/115.html

Oh, the Places You'll Go in 4-H! First Stop – Rescheduled for May 24 - 6:30-8:00 pm
Originally planned for April 26, the Second Stop is rescheduled for Thursday, May 24. Please register online.

Take the next step with 4-H records and see how the 4-H Project Report forms and My 4-H Activities forms can transition to the Illinois 4-H Award Application that is used to compete for County and State awards. Learn the difference between participation, leadership and community service. Get started on filling out the Illinois 4-H Award Application. Program will be held at the Extension Office.

New! Paper Clover Campaign
Again this year, Tractor Supply Company and 4-H will team up for the Paper Clover Campaign. The campaign will run from May 2 through May 13. Store customers will have an opportunity to purchase a paper clover with proceeds supporting 4-H at the national, state and county level. Funds coming back to McLean County will be used to help cover some of the expenses related to the fair. We are looking for clubs to host a table with some simple activities to promote 4-H during store hours on Saturday May 5, Sunday May 6, Saturday May 12 and Sunday May 13. We have plenty of 4-H promotional items (brochures, stickers) for your club to pass out. We know that more people are willing to make a donation if they see 4-H Club members at the store promoting the Paper Clover Campaign. Please help out! Two-hour shifts will be offered from 8 am-6 pm on Saturdays and 10 am-6 pm on Sundays. If your club is interested in taking a shift, please call the office or register your club online https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6757

New! Register for Air Rifle Workshops – May 5 – Level 1 at 9 am and Level 2 at 11:00 am
4-H members must attend Level 1 before they can attend Level 2. 4-H members typically attend Level 1 just once, but they are always welcome to attend a second time if they feel that would be helpful. 4-H members are encouraged to attend Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshops) as often as possible to improve their skills. Level 3 will be offered later in the year. Register for the Mary 5 workshops at: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6564

Additional Air Rifle workshops will be offered on the following dates:
June 2 - Introduction to Air Rifle (Level 1 workshop) at 9:00 am, Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshop) at 11:00 am
July 7 - Introduction to Air Rifle (Level 1 workshop) at 9:00 am, Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshop) at 11:00 am
September 1 - Introduction to Air Rifle (Level 1 workshop) at 9:00 am, Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshop) at 11:00 am
October 6 - Introduction to Air Rifle (Level 1 workshop) at 9:00 am, Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshop) at 11:00 am
November 3 - Introduction to Air Rifle (Level 1 workshop) at 9:00 am, Beginner Air Rifle (Level 2 workshop) at 11:00 am

New! Statewide 4-H Surveys
This spring, we will be collecting data statewide to answer 3 critical questions:

(1) Are we incorporating the essential elements of positive youth development programming into our 4-H club experiences? We will be asking about 1/3 of our clubs to complete a survey and will analyze the data statewide.

(2) Have we positively influenced youth's aspirations and interest in 4-H Science? Youth attending science rich events for 4-H members are non-members will be asked to participate in the evaluation.

(3) As 4-H members graduate, we want to know how 4-H has influenced their career decisions. 4-H members 17 and 18 years of age will be asked to complete an online survey.

As a statewide team, we are very excited to have information we can share with our stakeholders. If you have any questions regarding the surveys, please contact me.

New! McLean County Pork Producers Scholarship
Any McLean County High School senior who has raised or shown hogs for at least 5 years and/or is a member of a family who are active members of the McLean County Pork Producers may apply for a scholarship. More information is available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42915.pdf Applications are available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42914.pdf and are due June 15.

New! 4-H Livestock Judging Contest
University of Illinois Extension - McLean County and the Agriculture Department at Illinois State University will host a Regional 4-H Livestock Judging Contest at the ISU Laboratory Farm located just north and west of Lexington, IL. The contest will be held on Friday, June 8^th starting at 8:45 a.m. For more information: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42916.pdf

New! 2^nd Annual Go & Grow 5K Race and Family Fun Event
The IAA Foundation 5K Race and family fun event supports Illinois Ag in the Classroom, a program providing free resources to teachers in an effort to help students make the connection between food, fiber, fuel and farming. It would be great to see our 4-H clubs support this event! For more information: http://www.iaafoundation.org/iaaf/Events/growandgo.htm

To register: http://www.iaafoundation.org/iaafoundation/foundationforms/5k_form.asp

McLean County 4-H Horse Competition Preparation Clinics

CLICK HERE to view photos from last year's "Showmanship Clinic".

CLICK HERE to view photos of "Balanced and Controlled Riding 2011".

Get you and your horse ready for the 2012 Show Season!! Participate in ARENA ACTIVITIES or BARN ACTIVITIES. Both available each week!

Please read flier for more details!

Location: Interstate Center, Bloomington

Cost to participate with your horse in the Arena is $10.00* per week, payable at the door. There is a limit of 30 horses for most weeks' arena activities.

Fairgrounds Open 5:00-9:00 Clinics from 6:00-8:00pm

Arena Activities are limited to 30 horses*, so register EARLY!

AUDITING IS FREE! All are Welcome!! Open to all experience levels; pick and choose any or all six weeks.

Please click here to download a copy of the RULES for all participants in these clinics.

It is MANDATORY that All Manure and Trash must be hauled out with your horse.

***All 4-Hers MUST be ACCOMPAINED by a PARENT/ GUARDIAN/ TRAINER at ALL TIMES***
**Liability waivers must be signed upon entering the barn by a parent/guardian. You may download here..***

Proper barn attire required at ALL TIMES.

For Questions please contact Lisa Riddle jpines2388@speednet.com (309)530-7800 or Kate Rodriguez at k_rodrigo@comcast.net (309.261.0786).

Volunteers needed for the Barn Quilt Heritage Trail Project
Volunteers are needed to paint quilt blocks on 2 by 2 plywood pieces. The blocks will be put in business windows throughout McLean County to stimulate interest in the "Barn Quilt Heritage Trail – McLean County" project.

Many community organizations are supporting the project already, The Bloomington Downtown Association, The
Museum of History, The Town of Normal, the Hands All Around Quilt Guild, and many farm owners, to name just a few.

Volunteers will be supplied with paint, primedplywood boards cut to size, quilt patterns and paint supplies (and basic instructions only if you need them). Volunteers can choose the quilt pattern and paint colors they want to use.

Please call Karen Gottlieb, 663-4259 or GnWscout@aol.com for more information.

State Fair Employment Opportunities
The State Fair Jr. Department Job Application and Job Listings is posted on the Illinois 4-H website Fair & Exhibits page: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/fairsandexhibits.cfm. There are openings for youth ages 14-15 (limited); 16 and over (LOTS) and adults as judges, project assistants, livestock crew, superintendents, and set-up crew. If you are interested, check out the website.

State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest – June 18
The 2012 Illinois State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest will be held Monday June 18th at the University of Illinois Stock Pavilion 1402 West Pennsylvania Avenue, Urbana, IL. Participants must be checked in and registered between 8:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. The contest will start at 10:00 a.m. There will be a $5.00 registration fee for each senior participant to cover his or her lunch.

All participants will evaluate 8 classes of livestock and answer questions on three sets of questions. Senior contestants will give 3 sets of oral reasons after lunch while the junior contestants are released. Each county may enter a total of three four-member teams plus three extra individuals. Those teams can be either two senior teams and one junior team or two junior teams and one senior team. This contest will decide the high county team which will represent Illinois 4-H at the American Royal Livestock Contest in Kansas City, MO. In addition, the top 20 overall seniors will be invited back to a special work out to select the State 4-H Livestock Judging Team. This team will represent Illinois 4-H in November by participating in the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest in Louisville, KY.

Click here for more detailed information on rules, eligibility, resources, and classes.
Click here for registration form.

State 4-H Poultry Judging Contest – August 9
The Illinois State 4-H Poultry Judging Contest will be held Thursday August 9th in conjunction with the Illinois State Fair Junior Poultry show. The contest will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Orr building on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield Illinois.

A county may enter any number of 4-H participants. A county team may be made up of three or four individuals with no limit on the number or teams or individual contestants. The four highest senior 4-H'ers will be selected to participate on the Illinois State 4-H Poultry Judging Team which will represent Illinois in the National 4-H Poultry and Egg Judging Conference during the third week of November in Louisville. KY.

Click here for more detailed information on the contest classes and format.
Click here for registration information.

State 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest – August 18
The 2012 State 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest will be held Saturday August 18th, 2012 in conjunction with the
Illinois State Fair. The contest will take place in the Livestock Center at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield Illinois.

Registration is to be made on the day of the contest at the site of the contest. Registration will be from 8:30 am to 9:30 am with the contest starting at 10:00 am. To be eligible for selection, members must have been 14 years of age and not older than 18 years of age as of January 1, 2012. There is no limit on the number of participants per county.

The state 4-H dairy cattle judging team will be selected from participants in this contest. The selected State 4-H Dairy Team will participate at the National Dairy Judging Contest in Madison, Wisconsin. Click here for more contest information and rules.

State 4-H Horse Judging Contest
The State 4-H Horse Judging Contest will be held at Black Hawk College – East Campus Horse Arena on Saturday, May 5. Registration and contest start time are still TBA. Mark your calendar and watch for more information to come.

Youth LEADS
Youth LEADS is a leadership and community development program for High School Classes of 2013 and 2014 in McLean County. This program is brought to you by the McLean County Community Compact and University of Illinois Extension.

Youth LEADS is a 4-H Leadership SPIN Club that focuses on developing future leaders and fostering an awareness and understanding of important issues within the community. The program provides a forum in which future leaders have the opportunity to interact with local community, business, and government leaders and develop important life skills outside of the classroom.

All sessions will be held from 9:00 to 12:00 in June, 2012. More details and a registration form are available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/mclean4h/3434.html

State 4-H Youth Leadership Team Looking for New Members
The Illinois State 4-H Youth Leadership Team is starting to recruit older Illinois 4-H members and recent 4-H alumni to apply and interview for the 2012-2014 term. They are looking for 4-H teens that have demonstrated leadership abilities and are willing to step forward and assist with programming on the statewide level.

Information regarding the Youth Leadership Team and their activities, along with the YLT application, is available on the Youth Leadership Team page of the 4-H website: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/leadership_sylt.cfm. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age by September 1, 2012 (and no older than 19 by that date) in order to apply. They will be interviewing to fill 3-8 positions on the team from teens from across the state.

Applications are due at two times during the summer, depending on when the member wants to interview. Interviews at the Illini Summer Academies require applications be sent to the State 4-H Office no later than June 15. For interviews during State Fair (August 10-14), applications are due by August 1.

State Fair Lamb and Goat Tattoo and Weigh-in Locations
These are the only locations that 4-H members can weigh sheep and goats that will possibly be shown at this year's state fair. http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42295.pdf Tattooing will be held at the McLean County Fairgrounds on May 5.

Dog Obedience/Agility Dates Set for 2012
For more information: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42352.pdf
Location: Interstate Center
Training Dates: 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14, 5/21, 6/4, 6/11, 6/18
Fee: $10 for 12 week class session
Must bring: Copy of current rabies vaccination for 4-H staff to keep.
Instructors: McLean County Fair Dog Superintendents

Shooting Sports Training Opportunity for Volunteers
The Illinois 4-H Shooting Sports program will be holding its first adult certification training for the 2012 calendar year, May 18-20 at the 4-H Memorial Camp, Monticello, Il. All 4-H Shooting Sports shooting activities must be directly supervised by an Illinois Certified 4-H Shooting Sports Instructor. Certified Instructors must be a minimum age of 21 as of January 1 of the current year and must successfully complete an instructor training session administered by the State 4-H Shooting Sports Committee and demonstrate competency to instruct as determined through a written test, trainer observation and other screening used during the activity.

Instructors must have been approved as a current Illinois 4-H Leader through the local County Extension Office. If you are interested in becoming a Certified 4-H Shooting Sports Instructor, you may download the agenda for the training here: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42045.pdf

And the registration here: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42044.pdf

Before sending the registration to the State 4-H Office, you must contact the McLean County Extension office for approval.

GPS Spin Club
The GPS club meets on the 2^nd Monday from now through May.They are also planning some summer activities and a trip to the Illinois Surveyor's Museum in Springfield.The club is collaborating with the McLean County Farm Bureau to conduct a club project featuring numerous Historical Agricultural sites.The students research the site and then place the cache.The club is open to all 4-H'ers and non-4-H'ers in Livingston, McLean and Woodford Counties. For more information contact Carolyn Hansen by sending her an email at cshansen@illinois.edu or calling the Extension Office.

Illini Summer Academy Registration is Open!
We are extremely excited to announce plans for the upcoming 2012 Illini Summer Academies (ISA). There will be 11 Academies this year - up 3 from last year and introducing 4 NEW Academies.

ISA is our summer teen "conference" that takes place on the University of Illinois Champaign/Urbana campus. It is open to ALL Illinois high school teens - it is not limited to 4-H members. It will start on Sunday afternoon, June 24 and continue through Wednesday afternoon, June 27. High school teens from across the state will participate in 15-hours of college department Academies, exploring a college major and potential careers with hands-on work in labs, classrooms, and field trips. The Leadership Academy will focus on Youth and Adult Partnerships this year and encourage adult participation for one day of the 3-day Academy.

2012 ISA Academy Options include:
* Aerospace Engineering
* Agricultural & Biological Engineering
* Art & Design
* Bioengineering
* Crop Sciences
* Electrical & Computer Engineering
* Landscape Architecture & Urban Planning
* Leadership
* Molecular & Cellular Biology
* Physics
* Veterinary Medicine

Registration is open via the ISA website page: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/events/summeracademies.cfm. Registration MUST be completed on-line. Academies fill on a first-come, first-served basis. Some Academies do have grade restrictions because of needed high school class requirements and the nature of their Academy topics, however most are open to teens ages 14-18, as of 9/1/2012. Some Academies do not allow repeat attendees. Final registration will close May 23.

Free Chicks Available
The McLean County Ag in the Classroom will have lots of baby chicks looking for a good home on Friday, May 4. They will be WhiteLeghorn chicks.These chickens will be very good white egg layers and eat the smallest amount of feed per egg (feed conversion rate). They will have some black spots as they are a crossbreed. There will be about ½ males and ½ females. If you are interested in receiving some of the chicks, please contact Ag in the Classroom Coordinator, Terra Bertolini at tlberto@illinois.edu or call the Extension office.

Fish Camp - May 12-13
Fishing at its best. This fun filled weekend event, for adults and children, is packed with fishing action and instructional workshops for the beginning or intermediate fishing enthusiast. Learn to catch fish in the camp's 16-acre fishing paradise. Campers will be given lessons on fishing tips, bait, knots, gear, boating, fish behavior, fisheries management, and caring for your catch. The cost is $49 per person. Pre-registration and payment is required and camp does fill up fast! To register, contact 4-H Memorial Camp at 217-762-2741 or send an email to Curt Sinclair at sinclair@illinois.edu.

4-H Night with the Normal CornBelters – June 15
Mark Friday, June 15 on your calendar for 4-H Night with the CornBelters. Download a ticket order form at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/41837.pdf

Exhibit Opportunities for Shooting Sports
4-H Shooting Sports is a GROUP project, and therefore, members enrolled in one of the Shooting Sports projects (Archery, Air Rifle, Shotgun) must participate in at least one county workshop in order to exhibit at the fair. There are no project manuals for Shooting Sports. Members gain knowledge and skills by participating in the workshops conducted by certified instructors. Exhibit opportunities being planned include Rifle Exhibit (poster), Shotgun Exhibit (poster), Archery Exhibit (poster), Rifle Match, Shotgun Match, and Archery Match. The Rifle, Shotgun and Archery Matches will be held prior to the Fair and exhibitors will be awarded placings based on performance. For the discipline they are enrolled in, exhibitors will be able to choose to enter in either the Exhibit or Match, or may choose to enter in both classes. BE SURE TO INCLUDE SHOOTING SPORTS ON YOUR 4-H ENROLLMENT FORM DUE MAY 1.

GREEN Bloodlines in Your Family?
The Illinois 4-H Foundation welcomes nominations for the 2012 4-H Family Spirit Award which will be presented at the 4-H Family Picnic at the Illinois State Fair on August 11.

The Illinois 4-H Family Spirit Award recognizes a family with at least three generations and at least 15 different family members (including in-laws) that have either been 4-H members, leaders, or volunteers with at least 100 cumulative years of 4-H membership or volunteerism represented within the family. Selection is based on the total number of family members with 4-H connections, the total number of years of 4-H involvement, the diversity of experiences and recognitions earned by the 4-H members, and the collective impact that family members have made as advocates of their county and state 4-H programs. On-line applications are available at: http://4hfoundation.illinois.edu/awards/illinois_4h_family_spirit_award Nominations are due by May 1.

4-H Program Fee/Club Challenge Update
There is a statewide $20 Program Fee assessed for each 4-Her and Cloverbud. In McLean County, the McLean County Extension Foundation offers support to cover $10 of that fee. 4-H members are responsible for the remaining $10. Many of our clubs work together by doing fundraisers to collect these funds. Check with your club leader to see how your club will be handling the Program Fee.In June, 4-H clubs will be assessed fees for the number of club members they have for the year. Funds raised through the program fee pay for things like project manuals, accident insurance, training for leaders, and state and regional programs and initiatives. If you have more questions about the fee please contact Cathy Blunier at cblunier@illinois.edu.

Quality Assurance & Ethics Certification
This program is no longer mandatory for State Fair exhibition. However, the website should be available February 1, 2012. All State Fair beef, sheep, swine, horse, dairy, meat goat and poultry exhibitors are encouraged but not required to complete QA&E Certification via this site.

2nd Annual Illinois 4-H State Fair Online
It's not too early to remind members about the additional state judging opportunity that is made available through the 2nd Annual Illinois 4-H State Fair Online event. Members in all project areas are invited to make a video or map to share with a larger public to teach something they've learned in their 4-H project area. Entries are submitted online during the summer. Details on last year's event and entry examples can be viewed at https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/4hstatefaironline/

Summer 2012 International Exchange Programs
While the State 4-H Office is no longer coordinating international 4-H youth exchanges, we still offer inbound and outbound opportunities through the States 4-H Exchange consortium (states4Hexchange.org).

So if you have 4-H'ers who may be interested in spending part of the summer in Japan, Australia or Norway, please point them to the information at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/international.cfm That's where they'll find application forms and the 2012 brochure with further details about the available programs.

Important! Enrollment Reminders
Please keep in mind that the 4-H Member/Leader Enrollment Form (aka WHITE SHEET) must be signed by the 4-Her, Parent and 4-H Leader. Also we MUST have a Project Enrollment Form (aka GREEN SHEET) turned in with the 4-H Member/Leader Enrollment Form for a 4-Her to be re-enrolled in the program. Remember, 4-Hers can add/drop projects ANYTIME between now and May 1. After May 1 they can no longer add projects for fair exhibition.

Here are links to the forms online:
White Sheet: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/40629.pdf
Green Sheet: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/40628.pdf

Save the dates:

June 10-14 – McLean County Week @ 4-H Memorial Camp

August 1-5 – McLean County Fair & 4-H Show

August 9-19 – Illinois State Fair

August 10 – McLean County Exhibit Day at State Fair

August 25 – State Fair Dog Show

Happy Thursday 4-H Families!

These email updates will come to you every 2 weeks. You can always get these updates on the web at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/

New! Oh, the Places You'll Go in 4-H! First Stop – Rescheduled for April 17, 6:30-8:00 pm
Originally planned for March 26, the First Stop is rescheduled for Tuesday, April 17. Please register online at https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6547

Hear testimonials from real McLean County 4-H members who have soared to new heights! Learn about the process to achieve more in 4-H & leave with the tools necessary to complete 4-H records.

See how the Standards of Excellence for members guides 4-Hers through their project work. Learn how to fill out the My 4-H Project Record & Standards of Excellence & Achievement Forms. Learn the difference between participation, leadership and community service.

Location Change: Program will be held at the Extension Office.

New! Archery Workshop Dates
The Archery workshop scheduled for Saturday, March 31 is full, but another will be offered on April 7. Be sure to register if you plan to participate! The workshops will be at Grace Church. The Level 1 Clinic will be from 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. and Level 2 will be from 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.Youth must participate in a Level 1Archery Clinic before they may attend a Level 2 Clinic.Register at: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6650. In order to participate in the Archery Clinics, 4-Hers must be enrolled in Archery as a project.Any 4-Her enrolled in Archery must also attend at least one McLean County 4-H Archery Clinic in order to show at the fair. There is a $2 fee at each clinic to help cover the cost of supplies. If you have any questions please contact Amy Schlappi at 309-663-8270 or aschlapp@illinois.edu.

Future workshops are scheduled for:

Sat 4/21 Grace Church

Fri 4/27 Mini Expo building

Fri 5/11 Mini Expo building

Sat 5/12 Mini Expo building

New!/Corrected! PQA Testing/Training Dates Set
Youth Pork Quality Assurance Certification is required for any exhibitor showing junior barrows, open barrows, or Premiere barrows at the Illinois State Fair. Youth 8-19 years of age must be certified. Youth showing at the McLean County Fair are encouraged, but not required to complete the training.

Youth 12-14 years of age (Intermediate) and 15-18 years of age (Advanced) can certify/recertify by completing and passing an exam at the appropriate age level. To certify by exam, a minimum of 70 percent of the questions must be correctly answered. Once certified by exam, youth are not required to recertify in Youth PQA Plus until the next age level is reached. The youth producer's age is determined by the individual's age on January 1 of that year. A PQA exam session will be held on April 16 from 6:00-7:30 pm at the Extension Office.

A training class will be offered on April 19 from 6:00-7:30 pm at the Extension Office for youth ages 8-11 and any youth that does not certify by exam. Youth that attend the training class are certified for one year and then must recertify.

Online registration is available at: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6600

If you are unable to attend on April 16 or 19, you may attend a training class in Livingston County on April 21. Please call the Livingston (815-842-1776) office to let them know you are planning to attend.

Online training is not available; training/testing must be done in person.

New! State 4-H Horse Judging Contest
The State 4-H Horse Judging Contest will be held at Black Hawk College – East Campus Horse Arena on Saturday, May 5. Registration and contest start time are still TBA. Mark your calendar and watch for more information to come.

New! Illinois Central College Livestock Judging Contest
ICC will be hosting a livestock judging contest on Saturday, April 21 at the Marshall-Putnam Fairgrounds in Henry. For more information: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42460.pdf

New! Youth LEADS
Youth LEADS is a leadership and community development program for High School Classes of 2013 and 2014 in McLean County. This program is brought to you by the McLean County Community Compact and University of Illinois Extension.

Youth LEADS is a 4-H Leadership SPIN Club that focuses on developing future leaders and fostering an awareness and understanding of important issues within the community. The program provides a forum in which future leaders have the opportunity to interact with local community, business, and government leaders and develop important life skills outside of the classroom.

All sessions will be held from 9:00 to 12:00 in June, 2012. More details and a registration form are available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/mclean4h/3434.html

New! Congratulations Key Award Winners
Congratulations to Tyler Pascavis, Blair Phillips and Megan Schwenk for being selected as a 2012 Illinois State 4-H Key Club Award Winner. Special recognition for eleven state winners will be held during the 4-H Celebration Banquet at the Illini Summer Academies on June 26. Way to go!!

New! State 4-H Youth Leadership Team Looking for New Members
The Illinois State 4-H Youth Leadership Team is starting to recruit older Illinois 4-H members and recent 4-H alumni to apply and interview for the 2012-2014 term. They are looking for 4-H teens that have demonstrated leadership abilities and are willing to step forward and assist with programming on the statewide level.

Information regarding the Youth Leadership Team and their activities, along with the YLT application, is available on the Youth Leadership Team page of the 4-H website: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/leadership_sylt.cfm. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age by September 1, 2012 (and no older than 19 by that date) in order to apply. They will be interviewing to fill 3-8 positions on the team from teens from across the state.

Applications are due at two times during the summer, depending on when the member wants to interview. Interviews at the Illini Summer Academies require applications be sent to the State 4-H Office no later than June 15. For interviews during State Fair (August 10-14), applications are due by August 1.

New! Team MetalCow Wins the Rookie Inspiration Award
March 22 – 24, the McLean County 4-H Robotics Spin Club, Team MetalCow won the Rookie Inspiration trophy at the FIRST Midwestern Regional Competition. The judges selected the team based on their overall teamwork, "gracious professionalism," "cooperation," and robotic design and performance. The twelve-person team (with one 4-H'er from Woodford County) represented 4-H and McLean County very well! They are taking a couple of weeks off and then it's time to plan for year two. For information about this very cool opportunity, please contact the McLean County Extension Office.

4th Annual State 4-H Robotics Competition – April 14
Registration Deadline is April 1. The 4th Annual State 4-H Robotics Competition will be held April 14, 2012 at the University of Illinois campus in Champaign-Urbana. Free to all 4-H members, ages 9-14 for teams of at least three members. More information can be found at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/events/4hroboticschallenge.cfm

FYI – McLean County has 4 robotics kits that may be available for check-out by teams that sign up through the office. If you have a team and will need a kit to borrow please check with Kathy Weinzierl kweinzie@illinois.edu for more information.

2012 4-H Day with the Cardinals – Order Tickets by April 2
Illinois and Missouri 4-H members, parents, volunteers and alumni are gathering at Busch Stadium in St. Louis on Saturday, May 12 for the 11^th annual 4-H Day with the Cardinals. The Cardinals are playing the Atlanta Braves in a 6:15 p.m. game. Tickets are $24 each which includes a t-shirt featuring the 4-H Clover on the back and Cardinals emblem on the front. Ticket orders are due April 2. More information and ticket order form is available at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/events/cardinals.cfm

Quilt Workshop – April 28
We are so fortunate that members of The Hands All Around Quilt Guild (HAAQG) are willing to share their talents with 4-H members. They will be holding a workshop for 4-Hers who are doing Visual Arts - Quilting 1 projects this year. It will be on Saturday, April 28 at the Extension Office from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Assistance will be provided and questions will be answered as you hand piece a 9-Patch or 9-Patch variation, hand quilt and finish the item.

Even if you are not currently enrolled in Visual Arts-Quilting, you might check out this workshop and see if you like quilting. You will have until May 1 to enroll in the project!

A minimum of 4 participants will be required for this event. A supply list will be provided following registration. Please register by April 6. Register online at https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6611

Paper Clover Campaign
Again this year, TSC (Tractor Supply Company) will team up with 4-H for the Paper Clover fundraiser event. The fundraiser will run May 2-13. Mark the dates on your calendar, and watch for more information on how your club can get involved!

4-H Livestock Judging Contest
University of Illinois Extension McDonough County and WIU Intercollegiate Livestock Judging Team will sponsor a 4-H Livestock Judging Contest on Saturday, April 14 at the WIU Livestock Pavilion in Macomb. Download a flyer at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42293.pdf

State Fair Lamb and Goat Tattoo and Weigh-in Locations
These are the only locations that 4-H members can weigh sheep and goats that will possibly be shown at this year's state fair. http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42295.pdf

Dog Obedience/Agility Dates Set for 2012
For more information: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42352.pdf

Dog Check-In & Papers– April 2, 6-7 pm

Location: Interstate Center

Training Dates: 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14, 5/21, 6/4, 6/11, 6/18

Fee: $10 for 12 week class session

Must bring: Copy of current rabies vaccination for 4-H staff to keep.

Instructors: McLean County Fair Dog Superintendents

4-H Leader Update Scheduled for April 30
4-H Leaders, please note that there is a 4-H Leader Update scheduled for April 30 at 7:00 pm. The McLean County 4-H Calendar has the wrong time listed. The meeting will be at 7:00 pm, not 10:00 am as listed on the calendar. Registration will be coming soon.

Shooting Sports Training Opportunity for Volunteers
The Illinois 4-H Shooting Sports program will be holding its first adult certification training for the 2012 calendar year, May 18-20 at the 4-H Memorial Camp, Monticello, Il. All 4-H Shooting Sports shooting activities must be directly supervised by an Illinois Certified 4-H Shooting Sports Instructor. Certified Instructors must be a minimum age of 21 as of January 1 of the current year and must successfully complete an instructor training session administered by the State 4-H Shooting Sports Committee and demonstrate competency to instruct as determined through a written test, trainer observation and other screening used during the activity.

Instructors must have been approved as a current Illinois 4-H Leader through the local County Extension Office. If you are interested in becoming a Certified 4-H Shooting Sports Instructor, you may download the agenda for the training here: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42045.pdf

And the registration here: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42044.pdf

Before sending the registration to the State 4-H Office, you must contact the McLean County Extension office for approval.

GPS Spin Club
The GPS club meets on the 2^nd Monday from now through May.They are also planning some summer activities and a trip to the Illinois Surveyor's Museum in Springfield.The club is collaborating with the McLean County Farm Bureau to conduct a club project featuring numerous Historical Agricultural sites.The students research the site and then place the cache.The club is open to all 4-H'ers and non-4-H'ers in Livingston, McLean and Woodford Counties. For more information contact Carolyn Hansen by sending her an email at cshansen@illinois.edu or calling the Extension Office.

Illini Summer Academy Registration is Open!
We are extremely excited to announce plans for the upcoming 2012 Illini Summer Academies (ISA). There will be 11 Academies this year - up 3 from last year and introducing 4 NEW Academies.

ISA is our summer teen "conference" that takes place on the University of Illinois Champaign/Urbana campus. It is open to ALL Illinois high school teens - it is not limited to 4-H members. It will start on Sunday afternoon, June 24 and continue through Wednesday afternoon, June 27. High school teens from across the state will participate in 15-hours of college department Academies, exploring a college major and potential careers with hands-on work in labs, classrooms, and field trips. The Leadership Academy will focus on Youth and Adult Partnerships this year and encourage adult participation for one day of the 3-day Academy.

2012 ISA Academy Options include:
* Aerospace Engineering
* Agricultural & Biological Engineering
* Art & Design
* Bioengineering
* Crop Sciences
* Electrical & Computer Engineering
* Landscape Architecture & Urban Planning
* Leadership
* Molecular & Cellular Biology
* Physics
* Veterinary Medicine

Registration is open via the ISA website page: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/events/summeracademies.cfm. Registration MUST be completed on-line. Academies fill on a first-come, first-served basis. Some Academies do have grade restrictions because of needed high school class requirements and the nature of their Academy topics, however most are open to teens ages 14-18, as of 9/1/2012. Some Academies do not allow repeat attendees. Early-bird fee discounts are available through April 15. Final registration will close May 23.

Free Chicks Available
The McLean County Ag in the Classroom will have lots of baby chicks looking for a good home on Friday, May 4. They will be WhiteLeghorn chicks.These chickens will be very good white egg layers and eat the smallest amount of feed per egg (feed conversion rate). They will have some black spots as they are a crossbreed. There will be about ½ males and ½ females. If you are interested in receiving some of the chicks, please contact Ag in the Classroom Coordinator, Terra Bertolini at tlberto@illinois.edu or call the Extension office.

 Fish Camp - May 12-13
Fishing at its best. This fun filled weekend event, for adults and children, is packed with fishing action and instructional workshops for the beginning or intermediate fishing enthusiast. Learn to catch fish in the camp's 16-acre fishing paradise. Campers will be given lessons on fishing tips, bait, knots, gear, boating, fish behavior, fisheries management, and caring for your catch. The cost is $49 per person. Pre-registration and payment is required and camp does fill up fast! To register, contact 4-H Memorial Camp at 217-762-2741 or send an email to Curt Sinclair at sinclair@illinois.edu.

Horse Clinics Dates Set for 2012
Save the date for 4-H Horse Clinics - June 7,14,21,28 and July 12 and 19 all Thursdays 5-9pm. More details to come later in the spring.

4-H Memorial Camp
June 10-14 will be McLean County's week at 4-H Memorial Camp in Monticello. Registration forms are available at the Extension Office and online at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/mclean4h/2120.html McLean County is allocated 80 registrations on a first come, first serve basis. If you are unable to attend during McLean County's week, you may register for another week by calling the camp office at 217-762-2741.

The full fee for 4-H Summer Camp for 2012 will be $175/camper. However, the fee for current year 4-Her's that register through their local Extension Office for their designated week will be discounted to $160/camper. 4-Her's that choose to attend camp outside their scheduled week (those that register directly with the 4-H Camp office) will be charged the full fee of $175. Any non-4-Her's that register either through the local Extension Office or register directly with the 4-H Camp office will be charged the full fee of $175. Fifteen dollar sibling discounts will again be continued for 2012.

4-H Night with the Normal CornBelters – June 15
Mark Friday, June 15 on your calendar for 4-H Night with the CornBelters. Download a ticket order form at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/41837.pdf

Exhibit Opportunities for Shooting Sports
4-H Shooting Sports is a GROUP project, and therefore, members enrolled in one of the Shooting Sports projects (Archery, Air Rifle, Shotgun) must participate in at least one county workshop in order to exhibit at the fair. There are no project manuals for Shooting Sports. Members gain knowledge and skills by participating in the workshops conducted by certified instructors. Exhibit opportunities being planned include Rifle Exhibit (poster), Shotgun Exhibit (poster), Archery Exhibit (poster), Rifle Match, Shotgun Match, and Archery Match. The Rifle, Shotgun and Archery Matches will be held prior to the Fair and exhibitors will be awarded placings based on performance. For the discipline they are enrolled in, exhibitors will be able to choose to enter in either the Exhibit or Match, or may choose to enter in both classes. BE SURE TO INCLUDE SHOOTING SPORTS ON YOUR 4-H ENROLLMENT FORM DUE MAY 1.

Learn more about 4-H Shooting Sports
Meredith Martin, an eight-year 4-H member and a participant of 4-H Shooting Sports, is looking for ways to promote 4-H Shooting Sports in McLean county. She would like to visit your club meeting and give a 10 minute presentation about Shooting Sports and how to get involved. She will be contacting club leaders throughout the year to see if they are interested; but if you know you want her to come speak to your club, you can contact her at fnl85@Juno.com.

GREEN Bloodlines in Your Family?
The Illinois 4-H Foundation welcomes nominations for the 2012 4-H Family Spirit Award which will be presented at the 4-H Family Picnic at the Illinois State Fair on August 11.

The Illinois 4-H Family Spirit Award recognizes a family with at least three generations and at least 15 different family members (including in-laws) that have either been 4-H members, leaders, or volunteers with at least 100 cumulative years of 4-H membership or volunteerism represented within the family. Selection is based on the total number of family members with 4-H connections, the total number of years of 4-H involvement, the diversity of experiences and recognitions earned by the 4-H members, and the collective impact that family members have made as advocates of their county and state 4-H programs. On-line applications are available at: http://4hfoundation.illinois.edu/awards/illinois_4h_family_spirit_award Nominations are due by May 1.

Clover Challenge
Looking for a project that is more advanced than the current 4-H project book? Clover Challenge may be for you! Available to 15-18 year old members, Clover Challenge is an advanced study for state 4-H projects. This project unit is an option only after the 4-H member has successfully completed the other levels in a particular curriculum area. It is also strongly recommended that a mentor work with the member to assist in exploring the advanced subject matter. To enroll, a Clover Challenge Agreement must be completed and attached to your 4-H enrollment form due May 1. You can download the form at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/mclean4h/2113.html The Clover Challenge Agreement will be reviewed by Extension Staff and Show Committee Members prior to approval.

4-H Program Fee/Club Challenge Update
There is a statewide $20 Program Fee assessed for each 4-Her and Cloverbud. In McLean County, the McLean County Extension Foundation offers support to cover $10 of that fee. 4-H members are responsible for the remaining $10. Many of our clubs work together by doing fundraisers to collect these funds. Check with your club leader to see how your club will be handling the Program Fee.In June, 4-H clubs will be assessed fees for the number of club members they have for the year. Funds raised through the program fee pay for things like project manuals, accident insurance, training for leaders, and state and regional programs and initiatives. If you have more questions about the fee please contact Cathy Blunier at cblunier@illinois.edu.

Chicken Exhibitor Update
The McLean County 4-H Show Committee has approved that the young birds (such as pullets, and cockerels) may be hatched on December 1, 2011 or after. This also pertains to the waterfowl and miscellaneous poultry classes as well. This does not mean that birds have to be hatched in December, it is just an option. All exhibitors need to be aware of the maturity time of their specific breeds. Some birds take longer mature, so this will help those breeds. Other breeds will go through a molt near 1 year of age. This is something to consider when hatching birds for next year's show. Also, this rule change will only be for the McLean County Fair. Other shows may require the birds to be hatched during that year, so please read all of your rules for other shows, and do not expect them to be the same as McLean County's fair. Please contact the Extension Office if you have questions at 309-663-8306.

Speaking for Illinois 4-H (S4IL4-H)
Interested in giving back to the Illinois 4-H program? Do you have members who want to share their experiences and benefits of 4-H with county board members and state legislators? We are seeking older 4-H members age 14-19 to SPEAK OUT for the 4-H program. Speaking for Illinois 4-H (SFI4-H) is an opportunity for advance training in public presentations, with focus on volunteer recruitment; speaking to civic groups; soliciting donations from local groups, businesses, or individuals; and getting the word out about 4-H to elected officials on the local, state, and federal level. We are currently looking to schedule two dates for the first half of 2012 – one in southwestern Illinois (early 2012) and one in the northeastern part of the state (April/May). Please check for dates and registration information to be posted soon http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/leadership_sfi4h.cfm. The registration fee for training is $10 and includes lunch. Encourage your older 4-H members to join us!

Quality Assurance & Ethics Certification
This program is no longer mandatory for State Fair exhibition. However, the website should be available February 1, 2012. All State Fair beef, sheep, swine, horse, dairy, meat goat and poultry exhibitors are encouraged but not required to complete QA&E Certification via this site.

Illinois 4-H License Plates
The Illinois 4-H Foundation working with the Illinois Secretary of State's Office had legislation signed to create a new Illinois 4-H License Plate. Now they must secure 1,500 commitments before production can begin. Help the Illinois 4-H Foundation secure commitments by filling out the Specialty License Plate Registration form found at www.4hfoundation.illinois.edu or from your local Extension office. Include a check for $25.00 made out to the Secretary of State. This is non-refundable and will go to the Illinois 4-H Program. Once 1,500 commitments have been made, production will begin. More information is available through your local Extension office.

2nd Annual Illinois 4-H State Fair Online
It's not too early to remind members about the additional state judging opportunity that is made available through the 2nd Annual Illinois 4-H State Fair Online event. Members in all project areas are invited to make a video or map to share with a larger public to teach something they've learned in their 4-H project area. Entries are submitted online during the summer. Details on last year's event and entry examples can be viewed at https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/4hstatefaironline/

Summer 2012 International Exchange Programs
While the State 4-H Office is no longer coordinating international 4-H youth exchanges, we still offer inbound and outbound opportunities through the States 4-H Exchange consortium (states4Hexchange.org).

So if you have 4-H'ers who may be interested in spending part of the summer in Japan, Australia or Norway, please point them to the information at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/international.cfm That's where they'll find application forms and the 2012 brochure with further details about the available programs.

4-H House Cooperative Sorority
Are you a female member of 4-H, interested in attending the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign next year? If so, 4-H House Cooperative Sorority could be the perfect home-away-from-home for you while attending college! 4-H House provides an economical, fun, relaxed living environment with other girls who, like you, have been active in 4-H related activities. If 4-H House sounds like it would be a great fit for you, do not hesitate to contact our Interviewing Chair, Hannah Henkel, at (217)344-4784 or by email at henkel1@illinois.edu. Also, check us out at www.4hhouse.com! We look forward to hearing from you!

Important! Enrollment Reminders
Please keep in mind that the 4-H Member/Leader Enrollment Form (aka WHITE SHEET) must be signed by the 4-Her, Parent and 4-H Leader. Also we MUST have a Project Enrollment Form (aka GREEN SHEET) turned in with the 4-H Member/Leader Enrollment Form for a 4-Her to be re-enrolled in the program. Remember, 4-Hers can add/drop projects ANYTIME between now and May 1. After May 1 they can no longer add projects for fair exhibition.

Here are links to the forms online:

White Sheet: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/40629.pdf

Green Sheet: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/40628.pdf

Save the dates:
April 17 – Oh, the Places You'll Go...in 4-H! 1^st Stop (Project Records) – Location change to the Extension Office.
April 26 – Oh, the Places You'll Go...in 4-H! 2^nd Stop (County/State Records) – Location change to the Extension Office.

May 12 – 4-H Day with the Cardinals

June 10-14 – McLean County Week @ 4-H Memorial Camp

August 1-5 – McLean County Fair & 4-H Show

August 9-19 – Illinois State Fair

August 10 – McLean County Exhibit Day at State Fair

August 25 – State Fair Dog Show

Thanks,
Cathy Blunier
Unit Educator, 4-H Youth Development
University of Illinois Extension – Serving Livingston, McLean & Woodford Counties
402 N Hershey Rd
Bloomington IL 61704

http://www.mcleanextension.org
cblunier@illinois.eduphone 309.663.8306 fax 309.663.8270
4-H News Blog- Get the latest about McLean County 4-H! RSS Feed
Feature on 4-Hers - Mclean County 4-Hers doing extraordinary things! RSS Feed
4-H Leader Bulletin - Information for 4-H Leaders & Volunteers. RSS Feed
McLean County 4-H on Facebook & @McLeanCounty4H on Twitter - follow us.

Happy Friday 4-H Families!

These email updates will come to you every 2 weeks. You can always get these updates on the web at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/

New! Quilt Workshop – April 28
We are so fortunate that members of The Hands All Around Quilt Guild (HAAQG) are willing to share their talents with 4-H members. They will be holding a workshop for 4-Hers who are doing Visual Arts - Quilting 1 projects this year. It will be on Saturday, April 28 at the Extension Office from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Assistance will be provided and questions will be answered as you hand piece a 9-Patch or 9-Patch variation, hand quilt and finish the item.

Even if you are not currently enrolled in Visual Arts-Quilting, you might check out this workshop and see if you like quilting. You will have until May 1 to enroll in the project!

A minimum of 4 participants will be required for this event. A supply list will be provided following registration. Please register by April 6. Register online at https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6611

New! Paper Clover Campaign
Again this year, TSC (Tractor Supply Company) will team up with 4-H for the Paper Clover fundraiser event. The fundraiser will run May 2-13. Mark the dates on your calendar, and watch for more information on how your club can get involved!

New! Archery Workshop Dates
Archery workshops are scheduled for the following dates:

Fri 3/23 Mini Expo building 5 - 8 PM Leader
Sat 3/31 Grace Church AC 9 - 3 PM Youth
Sat 4/7 Grace Church AC 9 - 3 PM Youth
Sat 4/21 Grace Church AC 9 - 3 PM Youth
Fri 4/27 Mini Expo building 5 - 8 PM Youth
Fri 5/11 Mini Expo building 5 - 8 PM Youth
Sat 5/12 Mini Expo building 9 - 11 AM Youth

Please watch for more information and online registration to be posted to the website soon.

New! 4-H Livestock Judging Contest
University of Illinois Extension McDonough County and WIU Intercollegiate Livestock Judging Team will sponsor a 4-H Livestock Judging Contest on Saturday, April 14 at the WIU Livestock Pavilion in Macomb. Download a flyer at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42293.pdf

New! State Fair Lamb and Goat Tattoo and Weigh-in Locations
These are the only locations that 4-H members can weigh sheep and goats that will possibly be shown at this year's state fair. http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42295.pdf

Please remember to RSVP
Please remember to register for county 4-H activities/events/meetings so we can be prepared for your participation with the appropriate seating, handouts, supplies, refreshments. Occasionally, events are cancelled due to low registration, severe weather or an illness. If we don't know that you are planning to come, we will not be able to notify you of the cancellation. Most events have an online registration, but if you experience difficulty, you can always call the office or send an email.

Oh, the Places You'll Go in 4-H! First Stop – March 26, 6:30-8:00 pm
Register online at https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6547 Please register by March 20. We need to have a minimum of 5 participants or the workshop will be rescheduled.

Hear testimonials from real McLean County 4-H members who have soared to new heights! Learn about the process to achieve more in 4-H & leave with the tools necessary to complete 4-H records.

See how the Standards of Excellence for members guides 4-Hers through their project work. Learn how to fill out the My 4-H Project Record & Standards of Excellence & Achievement Forms. Learn the difference between participation, leadership and community service.

Location Change: Program will be held at the Extension Office.

Dog Obedience/Agility Dates Set for 2012
For more information: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42352.pdf
Dog Check-In & Papers– April 2, 6-7 pm
Location: Interstate Center
Training Dates: 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14, 5/21, 6/4, 6/11, 6/18
Fee: $10 for 12 week class session
Must bring: Copy of current rabies vaccination for 4-H staff to keep.
Instructors: McLean County Fair Dog Superintendents

Ecology Action Center invites you to participate in the Renewable Fashion Challenge
Each year, the Ecology Action Center and the Illinois Wesleyan University Wellness Department host the Illinois Sustainable Living and Wellness Expo. This year's event will take place at the Shirk Center on April 14. We invite you and your members to participate in this year's Renewable Fashion Challenge, which is described in the attached documents. Children and adults are challenged to create new garments, accessories or household décor items out of previously used items. Please read the rules carefully – we require before and after pictures, so don't start creating anything until before photos are taken! – and submit electronic applications by March 21.

Two ISU Fashion students are in charge of this year's event, and they would be happy to come to one of your meetings to tell your members about the event. They are Erica Bull (edbull@ilstu.edu) and Jessica Lottinville (jrlotti@ilstu.edu). Please feel free to contact them to set up a meeting.

For more information go to: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42151.pdf

For contest rules go to: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42138.pdf

PQA Testing/Training Dates Set

Youth Pork Quality Assurance Certification is required for any exhibitor showing swine (gilts, market barrows, premiere barrows) at the McLean County 4-H Show or showing junior barrows, open barrows, or Premiere barrows at the Illinois State Fair. Youth 8-19 years of age must be certified.

Youth 12-14 years of age (Intermediate) and 15-18 years of age (Advanced) can certify/recertify by completing and passing an exam at the appropriate age level. To certify by exam, a minimum of 70 percent of the questions must be correctly answered. Once certified by exam, youth are not required to recertify in Youth PQA Plus until the next age level is reached. The youth producer's age is determined by the individual's age on January 1 of that year. A PQA exam session will be held on April 16 from 6:00-7:30 pm at the Extension Office. Online registration will be coming soon.

A training class will be offered on April 19 from 6:00-7:30 pm at the Extension Office for youth ages 8-11 and any youth that does not certify by exam. Youth that attend the training class are certified for one year and then must recertify. Online registration will be coming soon.

If you are unable to attend on April 16 or 19, you may attend a training class in Woodford County on March 22 at or in Livingston County on April 21. Please call the Woodford (309-467-3789) or Livingston (815-842-1776) office to let them know you are planning to attend.

4-H Leader Update Scheduled for April 30
4-H Leaders, please note that there is a 4-H Leader Update scheduled for April 30 at 7:00 pm. The McLean County 4-H Calendar has the wrong time listed. The meeting will be at 7:00 pm, not 10:00 am as listed on the calendar. Registration will be coming soon.

Shooting Sports Training Opportunity for Volunteers
The Illinois 4-H Shooting Sports program will be holding its first adult certification training for the 2012 calendar year, May 18-20 at the 4-H Memorial Camp, Monticello, Il. All 4-H Shooting Sports shooting activities must be directly supervised by an Illinois Certified 4-H Shooting Sports Instructor. Certified Instructors must be a minimum age of 21 as of January 1 of the current year and must successfully complete an instructor training session administered by the State 4-H Shooting Sports Committee and demonstrate competency to instruct as determined through a written test, trainer observation and other screening used during the activity.

Instructors must have been approved as a current Illinois 4-H Leader through the local County Extension Office. If you are interested in becoming a Certified 4-H Shooting Sports Instructor, you may download the agenda for the training here: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42045.pdf

And the registration here: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/42044.pdf

Before sending the registration to the State 4-H Office, you must contact the McLean County Extension office for approval.

GPS Spin Club
The GPS club meets on the 2^nd Monday from now through May.They are also planning some summer activities and a trip to the Illinois Surveyor's Museum in Springfield.The club is collaborating with the McLean County Farm Bureau to conduct a club project featuring numerous Historical Agricultural sites.The students research the site and then place the cache.The club is open to all 4-H'ers and non-4-H'ers in Livingston, McLean and Woodford Counties. For more information contact Carolyn Hansen by sending her an email at cshansen@illinois.edu or calling the Extension Office.

Illini Summer Academy Registration is Open!
We are extremely excited to announce plans for the upcoming 2012 Illini Summer Academies (ISA). There will be 11 Academies this year - up 3 from last year and introducing 4 NEW Academies.

ISA is our summer teen "conference" that takes place on the University of Illinois Champaign/Urbana campus. It is open to ALL Illinois high school teens - it is not limited to 4-H members. It will start on Sunday afternoon, June 24 and continue through Wednesday afternoon, June 27. High school teens from across the state will participate in 15-hours of college department Academies, exploring a college major and potential careers with hands-on work in labs, classrooms, and field trips. The Leadership Academy will focus on Youth and Adult Partnerships this year and encourage adult participation for one day of the 3-day Academy.

2012 ISA Academy Options include:
* Aerospace Engineering
* Agricultural & Biological Engineering
* Art & Design
* Bioengineering
* Crop Sciences
* Electrical & Computer Engineering
* Landscape Architecture & Urban Planning
* Leadership
* Molecular & Cellular Biology
* Physics
* Veterinary Medicine

Registration is open via the ISA website page: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/events/summeracademies.cfm. Registration MUST be completed on-line. Academies fill on a first-come, first-served basis. Some Academies do have grade restrictions because of needed high school class requirements and the nature of their Academy topics, however most are open to teens ages 14-18, as of 9/1/2012. Some Academies do not allow repeat attendees. Early-bird fee discounts are available through April 15. Final registration will close May 23.

Free Chicks Available
The McLean County Ag in the Classroom will have lots of baby chicks looking for a good home on Friday, May 4. They will be WhiteLeghorn chicks.These chickens will be very good white egg layers and eat the smallest amount of feed per egg (feed conversion rate). They will have some black spots as they are a crossbreed. There will be about ½ males and ½ females. If you are interested in receiving some of the chicks, please contact Ag in the Classroom Coordinator, Terra Bertolini at tlberto@illinois.edu or call the Extension office.

3^rd Annual Horse Tack Auction – March 24
Let us help you get ready for the 2012 Show & Riding Season at the 4-H Horse Tack Auction on Saturday, March 24 at the McLean County Fairgrounds/Interstate Center. Doors Open at 9:00 a.m. Auction Begins at 10:00 a.m.

Donated and consigned items including tack and baked goods will also be auctioned off from area businesses and local supporters. Lunch will be available on the grounds. All Proceeds go to the McLean County 4-H Horse Program!

For more information: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/mclean4h/2116.html

4-H Find Out Party/New Member Meeting – March 31, 10-11:30 am
Please register by March 20. If we do not reach our minimum number of participants, we will reschedule this event.

Attention new 4-H families! We are excited about your first year in the McLean County 4-H Program.

Learn more about the 4-H program on March 31 from 10-11:30 am at the at the Extension Office, 402 N Hershey Rd. Bloomington. The program provide information to parents and youth regarding the 4-H project opportunities, the upcoming 4-H show/fair and what it takes to have a great 4-H experience! 4-Hers will complete several activities and learn more about 4-H! Register online so that enough volunteers and materials will be available:

https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6131

4th Annual State 4-H Robotics Competition – April 14
Please remind 4-H members interested in robotics that the 4th Annual State 4-H Robotics Competition that will be held April 14, 2012 at the University of Illinois campus in Champaign-Urbana. Free to all 4-H members, ages 9-14 for teams of at least three members. Details on the 2012 robotics team challenge will be released in February. Scholarships for winning teams! For information on last year's event, visit http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/events/4hroboticschallenge.cfm.

FYI – McLean County has 4 robotics kits that may be available for check-out by teams that sign up through the office. If you have a team and will need a kit to borrow please check with Kathy Weinzierl kweinzie@illinois.edu for more information.

Fish Camp - May 12-13
Fishing at its best. This fun filled weekend event, for adults and children, is packed with fishing action and instructional workshops for the beginning or intermediate fishing enthusiast. Learn to catch fish in the camp's 16-acre fishing paradise. Campers will be given lessons on fishing tips, bait, knots, gear, boating, fish behavior, fisheries management, and caring for your catch. The cost is $49 per person. Pre-registration and payment is required and camp does fill up fast! To register, contact 4-H Memorial Camp at 217-762-2741 or send an email to Curt Sinclair at sinclair@illinois.edu.

2012 4-H Day with the Cardinals – Save the date!!!
After negotiations with the St. Louis Cardinals Organization a date has been set for Saturday, May 12th, with a 6:15 p.m. start time for the game. The World Series Champion Cardinals are facing the Braves that evening, and with a 6:15 start time, 4-H families should plan to arrive at Busch Stadium by 4:00-4:45 p.m. for the pre-game celebration! This is Mother's Day weekend. 4-H families planning to attend the 4-H promotional event should make hotel reservations immediately and plan a special weekend outing with Mom in St. Louis, MO! As a special note, 2012 is to be the 11th year for the annual 4-H event, and thanks to your help in spreading the word, 24,103 people have attended the event since the 4-H Centennial in 2002. That's an average of 2,410 annual attendees, and Illinois has had 12,385 participating baseball 4-H enthusiasts! The event has raised $45,750 through its $1 raffle program over the years! Let's work together to keep the party going in 2012!

Horse Clinics Dates Set for 2012
Save the date for 4-H Horse Clinics - June 7,14,21,28 and July 12 and 19 all Thursdays 5-9pm. More details to come later in the spring.

4-H Memorial Camp
June 10-14 will be McLean County's week at 4-H Memorial Camp in Monticello. Registration forms are available at the Extension Office and online at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/mclean4h/2120.html McLean County is allocated 80 registrations on a first come, first serve basis. If you are unable to attend during McLean County's week, you may register for another week by calling the camp office at 217-762-2741.

The full fee for 4-H Summer Camp for 2012 will be $175/camper. However, the fee for current year 4-Her's that register through their local Extension Office for their designated week will be discounted to $160/camper. 4-Her's that choose to attend camp outside their scheduled week (those that register directly with the 4-H Camp office) will be charged the full fee of $175. Any non-4-Her's that register either through the local Extension Office or register directly with the 4-H Camp office will be charged the full fee of $175. Fifteen dollar sibling discounts will again be continued for 2012.

4-H Night with the Normal CornBelters – June 15
Mark Friday, June 15 on your calendar for 4-H Night with the CornBelters. Download a ticket order form at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/41837.pdf

Exhibit Opportunities for Shooting Sports
4-H Shooting Sports is a GROUP project, and therefore, members enrolled in one of the Shooting Sports projects (Archery, Air Rifle, Shotgun) must participate in at least one county workshop in order to exhibit at the fair. There are no project manuals for Shooting Sports. Members gain knowledge and skills by participating in the workshops conducted by certified instructors. Exhibit opportunities being planned include Rifle Exhibit (poster), Shotgun Exhibit (poster), Archery Exhibit (poster), Rifle Match, Shotgun Match, and Archery Match. The Rifle, Shotgun and Archery Matches will be held prior to the Fair and exhibitors will be awarded placings based on performance. For the discipline they are enrolled in, exhibitors will be able to choose to enter in either the Exhibit or Match, or may choose to enter in both classes. BE SURE TO INCLUDE SHOOTING SPORTS ON YOUR 4-H ENROLLMENT FORM DUE MAY 1.

Learn more about 4-H Shooting Sports
Meredith Martin, an eight-year 4-H member and a participant of 4-H Shooting Sports, is looking for ways to promote 4-H Shooting Sports in McLean county. She would like to visit your club meeting and give a 10 minute presentation about Shooting Sports and how to get involved. She will be contacting club leaders throughout the year to see if they are interested; but if you know you want her to come speak to your club, you can contact her at fnl85@Juno.com.

GREEN Bloodlines in Your Family?
The Illinois 4-H Foundation welcomes nominations for the 2012 4-H Family Spirit Award which will be presented at the 4-H Family Picnic at the Illinois State Fair on August 11.

The Illinois 4-H Family Spirit Award recognizes a family with at least three generations and at least 15 different family members (including in-laws) that have either been 4-H members, leaders, or volunteers with at least 100 cumulative years of 4-H membership or volunteerism represented within the family. Selection is based on the total number of family members with 4-H connections, the total number of years of 4-H involvement, the diversity of experiences and recognitions earned by the 4-H members, and the collective impact that family members have made as advocates of their county and state 4-H programs. On-line applications are available at: http://4hfoundation.illinois.edu/awards/illinois_4h_family_spirit_award Nominations are due by May 1.

Clover Challenge
Looking for a project that is more advanced than the current 4-H project book? Clover Challenge may be for you! Available to 15-18 year old members, Clover Challenge is an advanced study for state 4-H projects. This project unit is an option only after the 4-H member has successfully completed the other levels in a particular curriculum area. It is also strongly recommended that a mentor work with the member to assist in exploring the advanced subject matter. To enroll, a Clover Challenge Agreement must be completed and attached to your 4-H enrollment form due May 1. You can download the form at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/mclean4h/2113.html The Clover Challenge Agreement will be reviewed by Extension Staff and Show Committee Members prior to approval.

4-H Program Fee/Club Challenge Update
There is a statewide $20 Program Fee assessed for each 4-Her and Cloverbud. In McLean County, the McLean County Extension Foundation offers support to cover $10 of that fee. 4-H members are responsible for the remaining $10. Many of our clubs work together by doing fundraisers to collect these funds. Check with your club leader to see how your club will be handling the Program Fee.In June, 4-H clubs will be assessed fees for the number of club members they have for the year. Funds raised through the program fee pay for things like project manuals, accident insurance, training for leaders, and state and regional programs and initiatives. If you have more questions about the fee please contact Cathy Blunier at cblunier@illinois.edu.

Chicken Exhibitor Update
The McLean County 4-H Show Committee has approved that the young birds (such as pullets, and cockerels) may be hatched on December 1, 2011 or after. This also pertains to the waterfowl and miscellaneous poultry classes as well. This does not mean that birds have to be hatched in December, it is just an option. All exhibitors need to be aware of the maturity time of their specific breeds. Some birds take longer mature, so this will help those breeds. Other breeds will go through a molt near 1 year of age. This is something to consider when hatching birds for next year's show. Also, this rule change will only be for the McLean County Fair. Other shows may require the birds to be hatched during that year, so please read all of your rules for other shows, and do not expect them to be the same as McLean County's fair. Please contact the Extension Office if you have questions at 309-663-8306.

Speaking for Illinois 4-H (S4IL4-H)
Interested in giving back to the Illinois 4-H program? Do you have members who want to share their experiences and benefits of 4-H with county board members and state legislators? We are seeking older 4-H members age 14-19 to SPEAK OUT for the 4-H program. Speaking for Illinois 4-H (SFI4-H) is an opportunity for advance training in public presentations, with focus on volunteer recruitment; speaking to civic groups; soliciting donations from local groups, businesses, or individuals; and getting the word out about 4-H to elected officials on the local, state, and federal level. We are currently looking to schedule two dates for the first half of 2012 – one in southwestern Illinois (early 2012) and one in the northeastern part of the state (April/May). Please check for dates and registration information to be posted soon http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/leadership_sfi4h.cfm. The registration fee for training is $10 and includes lunch. Encourage your older 4-H members to join us!

Quality Assurance & Ethics Certification
This program is no longer mandatory for State Fair exhibition. However, the website should be available February 1, 2012. All State Fair beef, sheep, swine, horse, dairy, meat goat and poultry exhibitors are encouraged but not required to complete QA&E Certification via this site.

Livestock Ownership Dates for Illinois State Fair
Livestock ownership dates for the Illinois State fair will be mailed to all past and current 4-H members enrolled in livestock projects in January/February. The information will also include McLean County exhibition ownership dates and deadlines. Please watch for this mailing.

Illinois 4-H License Plates
The Illinois 4-H Foundation working with the Illinois Secretary of State's Office had legislation signed to create a new Illinois 4-H License Plate. Now they must secure 1,500 commitments before production can begin. Help the Illinois 4-H Foundation secure commitments by filling out the Specialty License Plate Registration form found at www.4hfoundation.illinois.edu or from your local Extension office. Include a check for $25.00 made out to the Secretary of State. This is non-refundable and will go to the Illinois 4-H Program. Once 1,500 commitments have been made, production will begin. More information is available through your local Extension office.

2nd Annual Illinois 4-H State Fair Online
It's not too early to remind members about the additional state judging opportunity that is made available through the 2nd Annual Illinois 4-H State Fair Online event. Members in all project areas are invited to make a video or map to share with a larger public to teach something they've learned in their 4-H project area. Entries are submitted online during the summer. Details on last year's event and entry examples can be viewed at https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/4hstatefaironline/

Summer 2012 International Exchange Programs
While the State 4-H Office is no longer coordinating international 4-H youth exchanges, we still offer inbound and outbound opportunities through the States 4-H Exchange consortium (states4Hexchange.org).

So if you have 4-H'ers who may be interested in spending part of the summer in Japan, Australia or Norway, please point them to the information at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/international.cfm That's where they'll find application forms and the 2012 brochure with further details about the available programs.

4-H House Cooperative Sorority
Are you a female member of 4-H, interested in attending the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign next year? If so, 4-H House Cooperative Sorority could be the perfect home-away-from-home for you while attending college! 4-H House provides an economical, fun, relaxed living environment with other girls who, like you, have been active in 4-H related activities. If 4-H House sounds like it would be a great fit for you, do not hesitate to contact our Interviewing Chair, Hannah Henkel, at (217)344-4784 or by email at henkel1@illinois.edu. Also, check us out at www.4hhouse.com! We look forward to hearing from you!

Important! Enrollment Reminders
Please keep in mind that the 4-H Member/Leader Enrollment Form (aka WHITE SHEET) must be signed by the 4-Her, Parent and 4-H Leader. Also we MUST have a Project Enrollment Form (aka GREEN SHEET) turned in with the 4-H Member/Leader Enrollment Form for a 4-Her to be re-enrolled in the program. Remember, 4-Hers can add/drop projects ANYTIME between now and May 1. After May 1 they can no longer add projects for fair exhibition.

Here are links to the forms online:
White Sheet: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/40629.pdf
Green Sheet: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/40628.pdf

Save the dates:
March 26 – Oh, the Places You'll Go...in 4-H! 1^st Stop (Project Records) – Location change to the Extension Office.
April 26 – Oh, the Places You'll Go...in 4-H! 2^nd Stop (County/State Records) – Location change to the Extension Office.
May 12 – 4-H Day with the Cardinals
June 10-14 – McLean County Week @ 4-H Memorial Camp
August 1-5 – McLean County Fair & 4-H Show
August 9-19 – Illinois State Fair
August 10 – McLean County Exhibit Day at State Fair
August 25 – State Fair Dog Show