Don't forget to make your cookies this weekend!!!

HOLIDAY COOKIES FOR SOLDIERS – 2011 - HCE

The 2011 Holiday Cookies for the Soldiers cookie packing day will be Tuesday, November 29, 2011, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 or when all cookies are packed in boxes to be shipped. We need just as many cookies as last year. (We collected over 1400 DOZEN cookies!!) and lots of people to help pack the boxes. Please help us by baking some great holiday cookies. The soldiers really, really appreciate them. Cookies can be brought to the Extension Office on Monday, November 28, 2011, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm.

Illinois 4-H Favorite Recipes though the Years

Before we know it, the holidays will be upon us! The holidays are a great time to bring food and family together, why not let 4-H inspire some of the tasty dishes? Consider purchasing a copy of Favorite Recipes of Illinois 4-H Through the Years for a friend or family member. With your purchase of the cookbook, you are supporting the 4-H Foods project area and volunteer training. Quantities are running out,so act fast! If you are interested in purchasing a cookbook, click here.

New! December Extension Newsletter Online

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/41021.pdf

New! 4-H Learn & Fun Day Update

Watch for 4-H Learn & Fun Day, SIT Conference (Students Involved with Technology) and 4-H Technology Academy information coming in early December! 4-H Learn & Fun Day registration deadline is January 11, 2012.

Clover Challenge Learning Grants

Learning how soybeans are genetically modified; utilizing gluten free grain products in home baking; organic corn production; developing gluten free pasta; testing ration formulations in finishing dairy steers and using whole grains in a healthy diet are some of the topics 4-H members accepted in the Clover Challenge Grant (CCG)program are planning to study in the coming months. Our program sponsors, the Illinois Soybean Association and Pioneer Hi-Bred view this as an opportunity to encourage older members to explore fields of interest that may lead to a career opportunity beyond their 4-H career. The CCG program is focused on topics related to production and/or varied uses of corn, soybeans, or small grains. Note: there are a few grants remaining for members between the ages of 14-18 interested in studying a topic beyond our existing 4-H curriculum. As you can see from the above list the interests vary from production, use by consumers, and livestock production. Individuals interested in soybeans are encouraged to visit the Illinois Soybean Association website: www.ilsoy.org. This site has information related to the varied uses of soybeans which may generate an idea or a question to study. Additional information about the program and applications are available at the Illinois 4-H Foundation website: http://4hfoundation.illinois.edu/financial_support. Even though the initial application deadline has passed we are still accepting applications. Final notification will be made by December 1 or until such time all grants have been awarded.

America's Farmers Grow Communities --- Farmers can help 4-H win $2,500!

The Monsanto Fund is launching their 2nd America's Farmers Grow Communities program in which farmers may select their favorite non-profit organization to receive $2,500 within their county. The grants are randomly selected per county and the program will run from August 1 through November 30, 2011. The process is very simple where farmers spend 2-3 minutes on www.growcommunities.com website and enter their name and preferred organization. No purchase is required and it's simply a way for them to give back to local communities.A random drawing of one registered farmer from each county will result in $2,500 going to that farmer's designated organization. Go to www.growcommunities.com for more information.

New! Attn: Aerospace 4-Hers! Top Gun Days Book Signing, Saturday - December 3, Prairie Aviation Museum

Join real-life TOPGUN Instructor Dave "BIO" Baranek as he flies F-14 Tomcats and helps Tom Cruise make the Blockbuster Movie TOP GUN!!! Topgun Days not only explains what it's like to be a Naval Flight Officer in the mighty Tomcat, it also offers the behind-the-scenes story of one of America's favorite movies. Strap yourself into a Navy fighter jet and feel the rush caused by roaring afterburners, supersonic shockwaves, and more.

Please plan to visit the museum on Saturday, December 3, for a unique opportunity to listen to and visit with Dave. Dave's book will make a great birthday or Christmas gift for your aviator and a collector's item because of your special dedication written and signed by Dave.

10:00 am - 10:30 am Talk and Q&A session

10:30 am - 12:00 pm Book signing

1:30 pm - 2:00 pm Talk and Q&A session

2:00 pm - 3:30 pm Book signing

Click here for flier and order form: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/40947.pdf

2011 4-H Day with the Rams

4-H families, alumni, and friends are invited to cheer on the St. Louis Rams at the 2011 4-H Day with the Rams event on Sunday, December 18, 2011, at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, Missouri. The Rams are playing the Cincinnati Bengals in a noon game, and tickets are $40 each (a $15 discount from regular ticket prices.) With each ticket ordered, participants are to receive a $10 voucher for food and drinks at the Dome as well as a 4-H Day with the Rams souvenir t-shirt. For orders of 10 or more tickets (placed on one order form,) each person receives an additional $10 food and drink voucher! There are a limited number of seats available so order soon. Ticket orders can be mailed, or you can call or e-mail the order. All the information for ordering is available at http://extension.illinois.edu/go/4-HRams. T-shirts are to be picked up at the Dome on game day. For additional information, please call University of Missouri Extension staff member Dave Hileman at (636) 583-5141.

Support Queen Lindsay – Recycle Electronics – Collection extended!!

Gold Star Clovers 4-H club is conducting a recycling fundraiser. There's nothing to buy. We are simply asking you to protect the environment by donating your used consumer electronics. Your used item(s) may be tax deductible and will be recycled in accordance with EPA regulations. 100% of the proceeds will help fund McLean County Fair Queen Lindsay Brightwell's participation in the state pageant in January.

We are currently collecting the following items:

Cell Phones, Laptop Computers, Inkjet Cartridges, MP3 Players, Digital Cameras, Digital Video Cameras, Handheld Game Systems, Radar Detectors , Electronic Book Readers, GPS Devices

Please drop off any items you would like to recycle to: U of I Extension office at 402 N. Hershey Rd., Bloomington.

The collection has been extended through the end of December. We greatly appreciate your support!

For flier & tax information click here: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/40657.pdf

Citizenship Washington Focus, July 7-14, 2012

Citizenship Washington Focus is a weeklong program that will provide you with many insights into the workings of our federal government. Through small group sessions at the National 4-H Center you'll learn about federal legislation, the political parties, the Bill of Rights, and how to make a positive impact in your community. You'll have appointments to meet with some of our Illinois Congressmen and share information with them about 4-H and University of Illinois Extension. Youth must be 14-18 years old. Minimum cost is $1120 per person. Brochure with more information: http://tiny.cc/uiepw Register online by December 15. Registration: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/default.cfm?RegistrationID=5996

Coloring Contest

ALL-WEATHER® is calling on all kids to participate in the ALL-WEATHER® Decorating Contest for 2011. This

year's contest again allows you to bring your artistic air anywhere! Using ALL-WEATHER® Paintstik®,

TWIST-STIK®, and QUIK SHOT®, decorate any animal, object, or painting. Entrants must submit a photo of the artwork, along with supporting photos showing the actual use of the ALL-WEATHER® product on the piece. Remember, only ALL-WEATHER® Paintstik®, TWIST-STIK®, and QUIK SHOT® may be used on eligible work. Entries must be submitted by December 31st, 2011, so submit your entries soon! Entries can be emailed to: allweather@laco.com or mailed to: Tom Rynberg, LA-CO® Industries, Inc, 1201 Pratt Blvd, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007. Winners will be selected by January 15th, 2012. For details go to: www.allweathermarker.com

Illinois 4-H LCP Award

Open to 4-H members 17 and above by December 1. Applications must be submitted to the McLean Extension office by January 2 so that it can be at the State 4-H Office by January 4, 2012. Each county may submit two applications to the state level. The two-tier awards program includes plaques for the top ten scoring members and invitations to the 3-day intense Premier 20 Youth Leadership Conference in April. Application: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/launcher.cfm?ID=36326

New! 4-H Volunteer Training Topics Offered Via Toll-Free Teleconference System in January – March

Illinois 4-H is offering six different volunteer training sessions via the Extension toll-free teleconferencing system. All 4-H volunteers are welcome to register and attend. Join with other volunteers from across the state for an evening of learning, idea sharing, and fun!

Positive Youth Development/BIGM – January 24

Communications within a 4-H Club – February 2

Behavior Management – February 8

Risk Management – February 13

Parental Involvement – February 28

Community Service – March 6

Sessions will begin at 7:00 p.m. and will last one hour. Participants may listen toll-free from their own home phones. Registration information will be available from your local Extension office in early December. Print materials for the sessions will be mailed directly to volunteers once they have registered for a specific topic and date. There will be no fee to register. Please contact Sheri Seibold at sseibold@illinois.edu or 217-333-0910 if you have additional questions. In addition, there are four online volunteer training courses that are available for

4-H leaders which can be accessed 24/7 on their own computer. These include Volunteer Orientation, Parliamentary Procedure, Program Planning, Public Presentations, and Working with Committees.

McLean County 4-H Steer Weigh, February 4, 10 am

The date for steer weigh in has been set for February 4, at 10 am at Reel's Livestock Center in Goodfield.

New! McLean County 4-H Volunteer Orientation & Screening, 2/20/11

This 4-H Volunteer Orientation and Screening program registration is for parents, leaders, fair superintendents, 4-H leaders - any and all 4-H volunteers. Date: Monday, February 20, 2012 Time: 6:30-8:30 pm Location: Extension Office - 402 N. Hershey Rd., Bloomington, Il

Why should a volunteer attend?

• To explore the many varied opportunities available to 4-H Youth through county and state 4-H programs
• To learn of how to lend your essential and invaluable support
• To meet with other new volunteers who are willing to lend their time and effort to one of the largest youth development programs in McLean County
• To secure and submit the required paperwork for volunteer screening

The U of I Extension State 4-H Office requires youth to be with screened volunteers at ALL times at 4-H events. Please help us ensure that all 4-H youth in McLean County are with caring adults who are concerned about their safety, and have been screened. The screening process involves a CANTS check (child abuse and neglect), a criminal background check, and personal references; the screening process is effective for five years (at the end of which the volunteer is assisted in submitting another set of papers for another five years).

Sign up online here: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6050 Bottom of Form

New! Registration OPEN for 2012 Jr. Leadership Conference!

The 2012 Jr. Leadership Conference registration is up and running. The State 4-H Youth Leadership Team has a great program planned for 7th and 8th graders! Find the Clue to the Leader in U is the theme. Participants will search for the aspects of becoming a great teen leader, explore skills in forensic and food

sciences, and find the actor in themselves. JLC is scheduled for February 25-26 at the Holiday Inn in Urbana. And they can bring a non-4-H friend along if they wish (in an effort to recruit them as members, of course)! Delegates will come away with new skills that they can use immediately in their 4-H projects and your club programming. Mixers, team-building, and just plain fun is being built in so they can meet new friends from across the state.

Registration deadline is January 30, 2012. Promotional information, scholarship application, and registration info can be found on the Illinois 4-H website http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/events/juniorleadership.cfm. Payment and final paperwork must be postmarked by February 1. Cost of the weekend is $125 – that includes hotel, 3 meals, insurance, and all programming. A limited number of 4-H scholarships are available for 1st time 4-H attendees.

University of Illinois Extension 4-H Key Award

This state recognition is for older 4-H members and rewards those who exhibit outstanding 4-H leadership, community service, and service as a mentor. A member may receive this recognition once during their 4-H career.

Applicants must be 4-H members, 16 to 18 years of age by September 1 of the 4-H year in which they are applying. (Members must be 16-18 years of age by the previous September 1). Each Extension unit may submit a maximum of three applications for award consideration each year. A maximum of 30 4-H members will receive the Illinois 4-H Key Award annually. Awards are presented at the Illini Summer Academies in June. The McLean County deadline for this application is February 15 – not March 1!!! Application: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/launcher.cfm?ID=18255

New! Speaking Out for Illinois 4-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!

New! 2012 "Women Changing the Face of Agriculture" career fair event, sponsored by the Illinois Agri-Women!

The career fair is open to high school and college age female students with an interest in a career in Agriculture, as well as their teachers, school counselors, or group leaders/advisors. The event will be held March 9th, 2012, at the Hilton Garden-Inn Conference Center in Champaign, IL. We expect around 400 attendees, and over 100 female representatives from numerous agricultural-related businesses and groups to share information, network, and interact with students. Several community colleges and universities will also have representation at the event.

For more information and to register, please see our website at www.womenchangingthefaceofagriculture.com

New! The Great American NO BULL Challenge

The Great American NO BULL Challenge is the first campaign to empower teens to take a stand against cyberbullying. Paige Logan, an Effingham County 4-H member is one of the National Campaign spokespeople. Paige credits the leadership skills she gained in 4-H with helping her deal with her own encounter with cyberbullying. Other Illinois 4-H teens can join this effort as they combine creativity with their technology skills to create a 3-5 minute video that lends their voice to ending cyberbullying! For more information, go to www.nobullchallenge.org for directions on how to get involved. Video's can be uploaded from January 15 – March 15, 2012. The public will have the opportunity to view and vote on the video that conveys the message best. Check out the website for contest rules, tips on making a video, and other ways to get involved in the Great American NO BULL Challenge. National 4-H is one of the official partners of the Great American NO BULL Challenge.

New! 4-H Find Out Party/New Member Meeting, March 31, 10-11:30 am

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

Dog Obedience/Agility Dates Set for 2012

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

Location: Interstate Center

Exact training times for beginner/advanced/agility: To Be Determined

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

New! 4th Annual State 4-H Robotics Competition

Please remind 4-H members interested in robotics that the 4th Annual State 4-H Robotics Competition that will be held April 21, 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 Feb. 1, 2012. 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 will 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.

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.

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.

New! 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.

Looking for a speaker for your 4-H Club Meeting?

My name is Gracie Weinzierl and I recently finished my 11th year with the Olympia Pacesetters 4-H club. I am currently studying Agriculture Education and Agronomy at Illinois State University. This year, I am a National Collegiate Agriculture Ambassador representing Illinois and am looking for agriculture presentations to do for groups of any age. I have done many ag-related activities to 4-H clubs in the past. I have several topics for leaders to choose from and am willing to create different activities upon request. I am looking to do presentations to 4-H clubs, but if anyone is a member of a Kiwanis club, Rotary club or any organization that would like to have an agriculture presentation, please contact me. I am available most evenings for presentations. Please find my contact information below. Gracie Weinzierl, 2011-2012 National Collegiate Agriculture Ambassador, biscuitsngracie14@gmail.com; gmweinz@ilstu.edu; (309)660-3442

New! 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/

Community Service Showcase

Care Packages for Soldiers – HCE needs items!

Leatha Poshard HCE Member sends care packages month to troops overseas. Her supply of items is nearly gone. Please ask your 4-Hers to collect these items: Peanut Butter, Crackers, Pop Tarts, Power Bars, Nuts/raisins, Dried fruits and canned fruit, Jello snack packs/ Puddings, Ramen Noodles, Snack cakes. Instant oatmeal/Individual cereals, Tuna in a pouch/ Chicken in a can, Jerky, Hard candy (no chocolate for summer), Powdered individual drinks, (coffee tea, fruit drinks), Batteries, Phone cards (AT&T is a good one), Disposable Cameras, Flip flops, Socks Black, Writing paper, envelopes & pens, Playing cards, Frisbees, Squirt Guns, Travel size Kleenex, shampoo, shower soap, Sanitizers, lotion, Mouthwash, Sunscreen, Tooth Brush, Paste, Dental floss, Eye drops, Chapstick, Aspirin/Tylenol, Small packages Clorox wipes, Glade stick ups. Please take them to the Extension Office 402 N. Hershey, Bloomington. If you need more information please call Leatha 309-452-9164. Thanks to everyone who has participated in this project.

Help a Teacher & Practice your Sewing

Did you know that teachers have wish lists? There are many classroom items that are not brought by the students or provided through the district. http://www.teacherwishlist.com/ is a website that displays the lists for teachers in your area based on district or zip code. One such teacher who uses the site is Mrs. Estabrook an Art Teacher from Stevenson Elementary in Bloomington. She has an extensive list, but one thing that 4-Hers could really help her get are Art Smocks. Here is the pattern that is suggested: http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m3253-products-6966.php?page_id=908 The size should be Medium or Large so that it can be worn by 5^th graders as well as younger students. The simple pattern is a GREAT way for new or beginning sewing project members to practice making a pattern AND it's also a great Community Service activity for your club or family to partake in! If you like to sew, I encourage all of our 4-H sewing members to make an art smock and you can take get it to Mrs. Estabrook at Stevenson. Or, even better, ask your local teacher if they have a wish list and share this website and then help them get their wishes fulfilled!!

Club Tour Ideas

4-H Clubs are always looking for new ideas for club tours. Often we hear of opportunities by word of mouth or perhaps an idea sparks from an article in the paper. Let's start a tourist bureau! Here's the first suggestion and please submit more ideas to the Extension office to lengthen the list. We are looking for a 4–Her or two to start a web page so that we can keep this information available and updated. Email techamb@illinois.edu if interested.

Der Bauernhoff Farms

Stan and Janetta live on Highway 9 (East of Bloomington) and are alpaca farmers. They not only will show you the alpacas, but also show you how they spin the fiber in to yarn. They have given many tours to schools, civic groups, home economic clubs and other interested people. They are both wonderful with children and provide and entertaining and educational opportunity for the observer. Learn more about them at

http://derbauernhoffarms.com/.

Tour Twin Groves

Tour the turbines at Twin Groves (east of Bloomington). Randy Lloyd former Extension staff member is willing to give tours to 4-H clubs for $40 for 2 hours. This is a great price for the knowledge shared. If you are interested in a tour by Randy, please email him at ramdl120@frontier.com.

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

Volunteer Training

This 4-H new volunteer course provides 4-H leaders with basic information about committees, advantages to utilizing committees within the 4-H club, types of committees, how to select and orient committees, committee reporting procedures and club action steps.Finally the course shares two videos that highlight examples of standing and special committees used by clubs. Ten tools to assist clubs in the effective use of committees are included in the related resources section of the course and on the Illinois 4-H web page. These can be downloaded and distributed by leaders. http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/4hc/

Save the dates:

January 28 – 4-H Learn & Fun Day @ HCC

February 18 – SIT – Students Involved in Technology Conference @ HCC

March 3 – 4-H Technology Academy @ HCC

March 26 – Oh, the Places You'll Go...in 4-H! 1^st Stop (Project Records)
April 26 – Oh, the Places You'll Go...in 4-H! 2^nd Stop (County/State Records)

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

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

New! 4-H Recognition of Excellence Videos

Special thanks to Kara Froidcoeur 4-Her in Hudson Ag, who along with her dad's support created four videos for our 4-H Recognition Awards ceremony on November 6. The videos are used during the ceremony to showcase the past year in 4-H though pictures, to educate the audience about the awards given and to allow time for lining up award winners. Great job Kara!!

• Welcome Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Om_E0VitPrk
• First Year Outstanding Intro: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpWswzE6_D4
• 5 Year Pledge Intro: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAs706AXhYk
• County Curriculum Awards: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APHJYDwJoqM
• Read the 4-H Recognition Tabloid here: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/40946.pdf

The tabloid lists all of this year's award winners!

New! November Extension Newsletter Online

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/40883.pdf

2011 North Central Region Volunteer e-Forums –

Join other 4-H Volunteers from the Livingston, McLean, Woodford Unit to learn cutting edge information from experts across the North Central Region. Gain new knowledge you can share with your 4-H members throughout the year! The e-forum will be held for the first time ever on November 7, 17, and 22, 2011. Each evening there will be a two hour session from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. CST.These sessions are for parents and leaders!! Registration is available online at www.mcleanextension.org. A light meal will be offered at 6:00 PM. (And, at the conclusion of all three forums, a "takeaway", for all 4-H members in your club, will be given to those 4-H Leaders attending all three sessions!) For those who carpool, the driver will be reimbursed mileage contact the office for more information.

Thursday, November 17–hosted at the Livingston County Extension Office

Register by November 14

4-H Program Management

• Keeping Your Cool While Working with Youth–Pat McGlaughlin, Sheri Seibold, University of Illinois
• Reducing the Risks of 4-H Club Meetings–Vicki Schwartz, Brenda Young, Ohio State University
• Sign up online: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=5945

Tuesday, November 22–hosted at the Woodford County Extension Office

Register by November 18

New & Emerging Curriculum

• Get Connected in Your 4-H World–Rachelle Vettern, North Dakota State University
• 4-H Science–Dixie Sandborn, Michigan State University
• Community Service Learning–Steve McKinley, Purdue University
• Sign up online: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=5946

New! Clover Challenge Learning Grants

Learning how soybeans are genetically modified; utilizing gluten free grain products in home baking; organic corn production; developing gluten free pasta; testing ration formulations in finishing dairy steers and using whole grains in a healthy diet are some of the topics 4-H members accepted in the Clover Challenge Grant (CCG)program are planning to study in the coming months. Our program sponsors, the Illinois Soybean Association and Pioneer Hi-Bred view this as an opportunity to encourage older members to explore fields of interest that may lead to a career opportunity beyond their 4-H career. The CCG program is focused on topics related to production and/or varied uses of corn, soybeans, or small grains. Note: there are a few grants remaining for members between the ages of 14-18 interested in studying a topic beyond our existing 4-H curriculum. Staff who know older 4-H members wanting to try something new in their 4-H project are encouraged to ask the member to apply. As you can see from the above list the interests vary from production, use by consumers, and livestock production. Individuals interested in soybeans are encouraged to visit the Illinois Soybean Association website: www.ilsoy.org. This site has information related to the varied uses of soybeans which may generate an idea or a question to study. Additional information about the program and applications are available at the Illinois 4-H Foundation website: http://4hfoundation.illinois.edu/financial_support. Even though the initial application deadline has passed we are still accepting applications. Final notification will be made by December 1 or until such time all grants have been awarded.

Fall Equine Seminars @ Blackhawk College

U of I Extension units and County Farm Bureaus are again working with Black Hawk East in Kewanee IL, to provide horse enthusiasts with the 2011 Fall Equine Seminar Series scheduled for the first three Thursday evenings in November from 6:30-8:30.

The final seminar will be held November 17. Harmony Horsemanship will be on site to demonstrate Equi-soccer. Yes, playing soccer with your horse. Attendees will learn the basic information about this sport. Come to learn the rules and how to start your horse on this fast growing new interest in equine sports.

All sessions run from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Ag Arena at Black Hawk East with check in starting at 6:15. Scheduled speakers are subject to change without notice. The sessions are free for 4-H members, FFA members and BHE students. The cost for all other persons is $5/person per session. Please call the Bureau County Farm Bureau (815) 875-6468 by October 27th to register for the first session on November 3.

America's Farmers Grow Communities --- Farmers can help 4-H win $2,500!

The Monsanto Fund is launching their 2nd America's Farmers Grow Communities program in which farmers may select their favorite non-profit organization to receive $2,500 within their county. The grants are randomly selected per county and the program will run from August 1 through November 30, 2011. The process is very simple where farmers spend 2-3 minutes on www.growcommunities.com website and enter their name and preferred organization. No purchase is required and it's simply a way for them to give back to local communities.A random drawing of one registered farmer from each county will result in $2,500 going to that farmer's designated organization. Go to www.growcommunities.com for more information.

New! Attn: Aerospace 4-Hers! Top Gun Days Book Signing, Saturday - December 3, Prairie Aviation Museum

Join real-life TOPGUN Instructor Dave "BIO" Baranek as he flies F-14 Tomcats and helps Tom Cruise make the Blockbuster Movie TOP GUN!!! Topgun Days not only explains what it's like to be a Naval Flight Officer in the mighty Tomcat, it also offers the behind-the-scenes story of one of America's favorite movies. Strap yourself into a Navy fighter jet and feel the rush caused by roaring afterburners, supersonic shockwaves, and more.

Please plan to visit the museum on Saturday, December 3, for a unique opportunity to listen to and visit with Dave. Dave's book will make a great birthday or Christmas gift for your aviator and a collector's item because of your special dedication written and signed by Dave.

• 10:00 am - 10:30 am Talk and Q&A session
• 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Book signing
• 1:30 pm - 2:00 pm Talk and Q&A session
• 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm Book signing

Click here for flier and order form: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/40947.pdf

2011 4-H Day with the Rams

4-H families, alumni, and friends are invited to cheer on the St. Louis Rams at the 2011 4-H Day with the Rams event on Sunday, December 18, 2011, at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, Missouri. The Rams are playing the Cincinnati Bengals in a noon game, and tickets are $40 each (a $15 discount from regular ticket prices.) With each ticket ordered, participants are to receive a $10 voucher for food and drinks at the Dome as well as a 4-H Day with the Rams souvenir t-shirt. For orders of 10 or more tickets (placed on one order form,) each person receives an additional $10 food and drink voucher! There are a limited number of seats available so order soon. Ticket orders can be mailed, or you can call or e-mail the order. All the information for ordering is available at http://extension.illinois.edu/go/4-HRams. T-shirts are to be picked up at the Dome on game day. For additional information, please call University of Missouri Extension staff member Dave Hileman at (636) 583-5141.

Support Queen Lindsay – Recycle Electronics – Collection extended!!

Gold Star Clovers 4-H club is conducting a recycling fundraiser. There's nothing to buy. We are simply asking you to protect the environment by donating your used consumer electronics. Your used item(s) may be tax deductible and will be recycled in accordance with EPA regulations. 100% of the proceeds will help fund McLean County Fair Queen Lindsay Brightwell's participation in the state pageant in January.

We are currently collecting the following items:

• Cell Phones, Laptop Computers, Inkjet Cartridges, MP3 Players, Digital Cameras, Digital Video Cameras, Handheld Game Systems, Radar Detectors , Electronic Book Readers, GPS Devices

Please drop off any items you would like to recycle to: U of I Extension office at 402 N. Hershey Rd., Bloomington. The collection has been extended through the end of December. We greatly appreciate your support! For flier & tax information click here: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/downloads/40657.pdf

Citizenship Washington Focus, July 7-14, 2012

Citizenship Washington Focus is a weeklong program that will provide you with many insights into the workings of our federal government. Through small group sessions at the National 4-H Center you'll learn about federal legislation, the political parties, the Bill of Rights, and how to make a positive impact in your community. You'll have appointments to meet with some of our Illinois Congressmen and share information with them about 4-H and University of Illinois Extension. Youth must be 14-18 years old. Minimum cost is $1120 per person. Brochure with more information: http://tiny.cc/uiepw Register online by December 15. Registration: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/default.cfm?RegistrationID=5996

Illinois 4-H LCP Award

Open to 4-H members 17 and above by December 1. Applications must be submitted to the McLean Extension office by January 2 so that it can be at the State 4-H Office by January 4, 2012. Each county may submit two applications to the state level. The two-tier awards program includes plaques for the top ten scoring members and invitations to the 3-day intense Premier 20 Youth Leadership Conference in April. Application: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/launcher.cfm?ID=36326

Coloring Contest

ALL-WEATHER® is calling on all kids to participate in the ALL-WEATHER® Decorating Contest for 2011. This

year's contest again allows you to bring your artistic air anywhere! Using ALL-WEATHER® Paintstik®,

TWIST-STIK®, and QUIK SHOT®, decorate any animal, object, or painting. Entrants must submit a photo of the artwork, along with supporting photos showing the actual use of the ALL-WEATHER® product on the piece. Remember, only ALL-WEATHER® Paintstik®, TWIST-STIK®, and QUIK SHOT® may be used on eligible work. Entries must be submitted by December 31st, 2011, so submit your entries soon! Entries can be emailed to: allweather@laco.com or mailed to: Tom Rynberg, LA-CO® Industries, Inc, 1201 Pratt Blvd, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007. Winners will be selected by January 15th, 2012. For details go to: www.allweathermarker.com

McLean County 4-H Steer Weigh, February 4, 10 am

The date for steer weigh in has been set for February 4, at 10 am at Reel's Livestock Center in Goodfield.

2012 Illinois 4-H Jr. Leadership Conference

Registration will open in early November, slated for Saturday/Sunday, February 25-26 at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Conference Center in Urbana, IL. Open to 7th and 8th grade members to check us out and get started on a 4-H leadership journey! The Illinois State 4-H Youth Leadership Team will be posting information and the registration link for this fun and educational event on the 4-H website: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/events/juniorleadership.cfm.

University of Illinois Extension 4-H Key Award

This state recognition is for older 4-H members and rewards those who exhibit outstanding 4-H leadership, community service, and service as a mentor. A member may receive this recognition once during their 4-H career.

Applicants must be 4-H members, 16 to 18 years of age by September 1 of the 4-H year in which they are applying. (Members must be 16-18 years of age by the previous September 1). Each Extension unit may submit a maximum of three applications for award consideration each year. A maximum of 30 4-H members will receive the Illinois 4-H Key Award annually. Awards are presented at the Illini Summer Academies in June. The McLean County deadline for this application is February 15 – not March 1!!! Application: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/launcher.cfm?ID=18255

New! Dog Obedience/Agility Dates Set for 2012

• Dog Check-In & Papers– April 2, 6-7 pm
• Location: Interstate Center
• Exact training times for beginner/advanced/agility: To Be Determined
• 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

New! 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.

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.

Are you a child or teenager under the age of 18?
Enter an essay contest that rewards your Good Deeds! http://financialadvisornormalil.com/index.php/gdcenroll/

If you are under the age of 18 and wish to take part in this contest, Simply do a good deed and fill out the enrollment form below. Anything goes – a small action or being involved in a big project. Winners will be notified by e-mail, mail, or telephone.

Read the October/November Illinois Leader

Looking for a speaker for your 4-H Club Meeting?

My name is Gracie Weinzierl and I recently finished my 11th year with the Olympia Pacesetters 4-H club. I am currently studying Agriculture Education and Agronomy at Illinois State University. This year, I am a National Collegiate Agriculture Ambassador representing Illinois and am looking for agriculture presentations to do for groups of any age. I have done many ag-related activities to 4-H clubs in the past. I have several topics for leaders to choose from and am willing to create different activities upon request. I am looking to do presentations to 4-H clubs, but if anyone is a member of a Kiwanis club, Rotary club or any organization that would like to have an agriculture presentation, please contact me. I am available most evenings for presentations. Please find my contact information below. Gracie Weinzierl, 2011-2012 National Collegiate Agriculture Ambassador, biscuitsngracie14@gmail.com; gmweinz@ilstu.edu; (309)660-3442

Community Service Showcase

Care Packages for Soldiers – HCE needs items!

Leatha Poshard HCE Member sends care packages month to troops overseas. Her supply of items is nearly gone. Please ask your 4-Hers to collect these items: Peanut Butter, Crackers, Pop Tarts, Power Bars, Nuts/raisins, Dried fruits and canned fruit, Jello snack packs/ Puddings, Ramen Noodles, Snack cakes. Instant oatmeal/Individual cereals, Tuna in a pouch/ Chicken in a can, Jerky, Hard candy (no chocolate for summer), Powdered individual drinks, (coffee tea, fruit drinks), Batteries, Phone cards (AT&T is a good one), Disposable Cameras, Flip flops, Socks Black, Writing paper, envelopes & pens, Playing cards, Frisbees, Squirt Guns, Travel size Kleenex, shampoo, shower soap, Sanitizers, lotion, Mouthwash, Sunscreen, Tooth Brush, Paste, Dental floss, Eye drops, Chapstick, Aspirin/Tylenol, Small packages Clorox wipes, Glade stick ups. Please take them to the Extension Office 402 N. Hershey, Bloomington. If you need more information please call Leatha 309-452-9164. Thanks to everyone who has participated in this project.

HOLIDAY COOKIES FOR SOLDIERS – 2011 - HCE

The 2011 Holiday Cookies for the Soldiers cookie packing day will be Tuesday, November 29, 2011, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 or when all cookies are packed in boxes to be shipped. We need just as many cookies as last year. (We collected over 1400 DOZEN cookies!!) and lots of people to help pack the boxes. Please help us by baking some great holiday cookies. The soldiers really, really appreciate them. Cookies can be brought to the Extension Office on Monday, November 28, 2011, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm.

New! Help a Teacher & Practice your Sewing

Did you know that teachers have wish lists? There are many classroom items that are not brought by the students or provided through the district. http://www.teacherwishlist.com/ is a website that displays the lists for teachers in your area based on district or zip code. One such teacher who uses the site is Mrs. Estabrook an Art Teacher from Stevenson Elementary in Bloomington. She has an extensive list, but one thing that 4-Hers could really help her get are Art Smocks. Here is the pattern that is suggested: http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m3253-products-6966.php?page_id=908 The size should be Medium or Large so that it can be worn by 5^th graders as well as younger students. The simple pattern is a GREAT way for new or beginning sewing project members to practice making a pattern AND it's also a great Community Service activity for your club or family to partake in! If you like to sew, I encourage all of our 4-H sewing members to make an art smock and you can take get it to Mrs. Estabrook at Stevenson. Or, even better, ask your local teacher if they have a wish list and share this website and then help them get their wishes fulfilled!!

Club Tour Ideas

4-H Clubs are always looking for new ideas for club tours. Often we hear of opportunities by word of mouth or perhaps an idea sparks from an article in the paper. Let's start a tourist bureau! Here's the first suggestion and please submit more ideas to the Extension office to lengthen the list. We are looking for a 4–Her or two to start a web page so that we can keep this information available and updated. Email techamb@illinois.edu if interested.

Der Bauernhoff Farms

Stan and Janetta live on Highway 9 (East of Bloomington) and are alpaca farmers. They not only will show you the alpacas, but also show you how they spin the fiber in to yarn. They have given many tours to schools, civic groups, home economic clubs and other interested people. They are both wonderful with children and provide and entertaining and educational opportunity for the observer. Learn more about them at

http://derbauernhoffarms.com/.

Tour Twin Groves

Tour the turbines at Twin Groves (east of Bloomington). Randy Lloyd former Extension staff member is willing to give tours to 4-H clubs for $40 for 2 hours. This is a great price for the knowledge shared. If you are interested in a tour by Randy, please email him at ramdl120@frontier.com.

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

Volunteer Training

This 4-H new volunteer course provides 4-H leaders with basic information about committees, advantages to utilizing committees within the 4-H club, types of committees, how to select and orient committees, committee reporting procedures and club action steps Finally, the course shares two videos that highlight examples of standing and special committees used by clubs. Ten tools to assist clubs in the effective use of committees are included in the related resources section of the course and on the Illinois 4-H web page. These can be downloaded and distributed by leaders. http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/4hc/

Rabbit in Need of a good Home

A woman received a rabbit as a gift. Unfortunately she is allergic to the rabbit and must give it away to a good home. She was referred to 4-H as a possibility. If you are looking for a "pet rabbit" possibly for a small animal project, please call Valerie DigGilia 309-825-2258. The rabbit is less than a year old.

Illinois 4-H Favorite Recipes though the Years

Before we know it, the holidays will be upon us! The holidays are a great time to bring food and family together, why not let 4-H inspire some of the tasty dishes? Consider purchasing a copy of Favorite Recipes of Illinois 4-H Through the Years for a friend or family member. With your purchase of the cookbook, you are supporting the 4-H Foods project area and volunteer training. Quantities are running out,so act fast! If you are interested in purchasing a cookbook, click here.

Save the dates:

• January 28 – 4-H Learn & Fun Day @ HCC
• February 18 – SIT – Students Involved in Technology Conference @ HCC
• March 3 – 4-H Technology Academy @ HCC
• New! March 26 – Oh, the Places You'll Go...in 4-H! 1^st Stop (Project Records)
  New! April 26 – Oh, the Places You'll Go...in 4-H! 2^nd Stop (County/State Records)
• New! June 10-14 – McLean County Week @ 4-H Memorial Camp
• August 1-5 – McLean County Fair & 4-H Show