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Washington County 4-H Newsletter
June 13, 2024
Welcome to our County Newsletter! The most up-to-date information about events and activities going on in Washington County 4-H. Please pass along to friends and family that might be interested in attending a 4-H event. You will also receive the monthly Clover Update at the beginning of each month highlighting regional and state events.
Getting the most out of your newsletter?
Is your newsletter getting cut off? Washington County does have a lengthy newsletter and it often times will be cut off for gmail accounts and perhaps others. Meaning you have to hit a link to get the whole newsletter. The best way to view our newsletter is to open it in a new browser. Try using this link for the best newsletter experience. June 13, 2024 - Washington County 4-H Newsletter
Let's help Henry fight Cancer!
Summer break should mean more time to spend outside or meeting with our friends and enjoying the warm days doing what we love. However, for some their world consists of endless hospital stays, multiple treatments, medications, and that feeling of wanting to be anywhere else.
We understand that many families have experienced the challenges of an illness themselves or to family members but it is especially hard when it is a youth. Henry has been a 4-H member in Washington County for 9 years, belongs to the Soil Savers 4-H club and loves the outdoors. He was diagnosed with leukemia last fall and has been fighting hard to beat this disease. With some recent set backs some encouragement would be welcomed.
Washington County 4-H would like to support Henry through a card drive. We are asking youth, families, clubs to send an encouraging card, note, picture for Henry while he fights this disease. Perhaps you have firsthand experience and could write Henry about your experiences, advice and what got you through the process. Anything to put a smile on Henry’s face.
We will collect things at our office and then forward to the family. Thank you.
Please send to:
Washington County 4-H
Attn: Henry
14949 62nd Street North
Stillwater, MN 55082
Final Reminders
All Fees Due Now - Enrollment/Shooting Sports/Dog
If you have been getting monthly email reminders about enrollment fees, now is the time to pay. Washington County has a yearly enrollment fee of $25.00 per member (youth only) or $100 max per family for 4 or more children. We ask that you please send payment to our office address below. We do not have online payment for enrollment at this time. There is a drop box at the outside of the main entrance of the Stillwater Government Center (not courts entrance). Clearly mark an envelope addressed to Washington County 4-H and we will receive it, you can drop off at any time.
Washington County 4-H
14949 62nd Street North
Stillwater, MN 55082
**For those using online banking, please be sure to include Washington County 4-H as checks made out to just Washington County go directly to the property tax office**
We do not want anyone to miss out so if you need scholarship funds, please let us know by completing the scholarship form.
- Shooting Sports has an additional fee of $40 per member with an $80 max per family.
- Dog Training has an additional fee of $40 per member with an $80 max per family.
Please write in check memo what payment is for. Thank you!
Upcoming county events/activities
FEDERATION MEETING - JUNE 24
Mark your calendars for the June Federation Meeting! All 4-H members and volunteers are welcome to attend this meeting! At this meeting we will be voting on next year’s Exec Board Members! We need youth and adults to run for the positions (see article ‘Seeking Federation Officers’ for the application! The meeting will be held at Hooley Hall on Monday, June 24th beginning at 7:00 pm! We need at least half the club’s present to have a quorum! Questions? Contact Ann at; churc109@umn.edu
Ambassador Social - June 24
Youth enrolled in grades 7-13 who want to take their leadership skills to the next level are invited to join current Ambassadors on June 24 @ Washington County Fairgrounds for a Taco dinner and social. Becoming an Ambassador can include:
Planning and leading cloverbud workshops, service projects, and social events
Serving as a counselor at workshops and day camps
Running the Ambassador Booth at the County Fair
Serving as a spokesperson for the Washington County 4-H Program
Other outreach opportunities as assigned
Meeting new friends throughout the county and state!
If these opportunities interest you, fill out the Ambassador Application here! If you have questions, contact Megan Slater at slate187@umn.edu or Abbey Rademacher at abbeyrademacher25@gmail.com for more information.
2024 Summer Day Camps- July 8th-11th
Washington County 4-H is excited to share the 2024 July Day Camps! The day camps run from July 8th-11th from 9:00 am-4:00 pm. July 8th, 9th, and 11th will be at the Washington County Fairgrounds and July 10th will be a Field Trip to Como Zoo and Conservatory.
These day camps are open to anyone in grades K-6th. Camp registration
Grades 7-13th can participate as a counselor by filling our the counselor form.
Monday July 8th
Olympics
Campers will be learning about what the Olympics are and the traditions that occur at the Olympics while participating in Olympic like events such as a noodle javelin throw, creating their own gold metals and more!
Tuesday July 9th
Art, Music, and Dance
Campers will be learning a dance, making their instruments, creating tie-dye bookmarks and more!
Wednesday July 12th
Como Zoo and Conservatory Field Trip
Campers will be going on a Como Zoo and Conservatory field trip! They will be bussed to the location, experience all that they have to offer including a class!
***You must register by JULY 1ST to go to the Zoo.***
Thursday July 13th
Luau/Water Day
Campers will be having a luau to celebrate the end of camp! This day will include water games and ocean themed activities! Feel free to have your 4-Her wear a Hawaiian or luau-themed shirt.
Daily fees are $25.00 per day or $90.00 for all 4 days if we receive payment BEFORE July 1st. Cash or check only made out to Washington County 4-H. All payments should be sent to the following address;
Washington County 4-H
14949 62nd Street North
Stillwater, MN 55082
Fees after July 1st are $35.00 per day or $115.00 for all 4 days. Camp t-shirts will NOT be available for late registrations.
If you have any questions please contact Abbey Rademacher | radem181@umn.edu
Counselors Needed for 2024 Summer Day Camps- July 8-11
Washington County 4-H is excited to share the 2023 July Day Camps and we would love to have your help as a camp counselor!
The day camps run from July 8th-11th from 9:00 am-4:00 pm, counselors would need to arrive each day by 8:00 am and be released by 4:15 pm.
Camp dates: July 8th, 9th, and 11th will be at the Washington County Fairgrounds and July 10th will be a Field Trip to Como Zoo and Conservatory.
Training Date: June 30th 12pm- 4pm Counselors will have training. It will be 4 hours of learning camp materials and signing up for crafts/ activities.
Grades 7-13th can participate as a counselor by filling our the counselor form.
If you have any questions please contact Abbey Rademacher | radem181@umn.edu
Fashion Revue - July 18
The 4-H Fashion Revue will be held on Thursday, July 18th at the Oakdale Discovery Center. Judging will begin at noon, followed by a Fashion Show at 6:30pm.
Fashion revue is for 4-H members who wish to model a garment they have made or purchased. Participants may model any clothing they have constructed, purchased or upcycled as a part of their 4-H clothing and textiles project. The event is open to all grades.
Check out these resources to learn more:
Register here: z.umn.edu/2024FRwashingtonramsey
REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS JULY 1st!
Contact Ashton Kulesa with any questions at ashton@umn.edu
Animal Science
LIVESTOCK PDC (Project Development Committee) MEETING - June 19
The June Livestock PDC meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 19th, beginning at 6:30 pm at the fairgrounds (Hooley Hall). The meeting will be focused on fair planning! Youth and adults are welcome to come! Any questions, contact Ann @ churc109@umn.edu
LQA&E In-person Training - June 21
Register for the 2024 Livestock Quality Assurance and Ethics training (LQA&E). Training will be held on Friday, June 21 from 8:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at Dee Brothers LLC in Farmington, MN. Must register in 4hOnline through your family account.
LQA&E training is required for any youth 6th grade and above that would take a state fair trip. It is required for youth exhibiting dairy, beef, sheep, swine, goats, llama, rabbit and poultry to complete this course every three years.
Don't know if you are current? Check the following link,
LQA certifications completed and valid for 2024
If you are unable to attend the in-person training on June 21 you have the option of completing the YQCA online training, good for one year, or attending a training hosted by another county.
Chisago County is offering Level 2 LQA&E Training (In-Person and have completed level 1)
• Thursday, June 20
• 5:00 pm - 8:30 pm
• Chisago County Community Center (38790 6th Ave, North Branch, MN 55056)
• Cost: Free
• Registration: Register in 4-H Online
All LQA&E training needs to be completed before Washington County Fair to be eligible to accept a MN 4-H state fair livestock trip, if given the opportunity. Please register through your family account in 4hOnline.
RABBIT PROJECT MEMBERS
All Rabbit Project members (including Cloverbuds) are invited to participate in Rabbit Agility training! What is rabbit agility? It is a sport where rabbits are trained to navigate obstacles in a course. The obstacles can include ramps, tunnels, hoops, etc. similar to dog agility.
Practices will be on Sunday’s July 14th, 21st and 28th from 3 pm to 5 pm at the Washington County Fairgrounds outside the Rabbit Barn.
In addition, we will be setting up Rabbit Cages for the county fair on Sunday, July 28th from 3 pm to 5 pm. More hands light work! Come join the fun!
Horse Hippology
In this fun, friendly competition, 4-H'ers show their knowledge and understanding of equine science and husbandry. Any 4-H'er can join — you don't need to be in the horse project or own a horse.The competition is held every September at the Minnesota 4-H State Horse Show!. Winning teams go on to represent Minnesota in national competitions. Join on your own or form a team with 2–4 of your 4-H friends. Practices will start in late June/July. If interested, contact Lisa Kalka at; kalkax2@live.com
Horse Schooling Show - July 16
Horse Project Members can help prepare for the county fair shows be attending the Schooling Show scheduled for Tuesday, July 16 at the fairgrounds! Watch for more details to come!
IMPORTANT CLOVERBUD RULE CHANGE
The Minnesota 4-H Youth Development Cloverbud policy creates a uniform set of rules for participation to maintain developmental appropriateness and safety for our youngest 4-H members. A rule related to Cloverbuds and animals has been updated.
When Cloverbuds and animals are together at a 4-H program, families may now choose one of two acceptable ways to guide and monitor involvement in non-mounted activities:
1. The responsible person is in control of the animal with the Cloverbud at their side.
2. The Cloverbud is in control of the animal with the responsible person at their side to assist or take control of the animal when needed or as directed by staff, volunteers, or show managers.
In the horse project, the second option does not apply to mounted activities. When a Cloverbud is mounted on a horse, the horse must always have a lead line and be under the control of the responsible person.
Cloverbud families may choose either option. Either way, Cloverbud exhibitions will continue to be non-competitive. Complete Cloverbud rules are found in the Cloverbud information sheet.
Performing Arts
County Arts-In Registration - Registration due by July 1
It’s time to start thinking about summer, which means Arts-In will be here before we know it! County Arts-In is a performing arts and leadership experience for youth that have completed grades 7-13. Participants will work together with a team of talented Directors and Student Directors to put together a 30-minute musical that will be performed at the Washington County Fair and Minnesota State Fair. Participants will choose which major they would like to participate in: performing, band, or technical. Auditions will take place on July 7, with the encampment starting the following week, July 14-17. See registration form for specific dates and times of auditions, encampment, and performances.
Registration fee is $90. Deadline to register is July 1. Late fees of an additional $25.00 ($115 total) will apply after July 1!
*Participants will also need to purchase gate passes for the County Fair and State Fair general encampment.
Volunteer Requirement: 2+ hours of adult volunteer time is required for each child participating in Arts-In. A separate $100.00 check per family must be included with registration. This deposit will be shredded if volunteer commitment is completed.
You will need to complete all three forms:
Questions can be directed to Avis Peters at avisapeters@hotmail.com or 651-430-8163. Or
Washington County 4-H Office at 651-430-6800 or mnext-washington@umn.edu
Intro to Arts-In - July 15
If you are in 6th grade and wondering what Arts-In is like, then the 2nd Annual Intro to Arts-In program is for you! Come visit on Monday, July 15, from 5-8 PM during the Washington County 4-H Arts-In Encampment to see what it's all about! Participants will have the opportunity to participate in a theater workshop, visit the different majors (band, performing, and technical), have dinner with the cast, participate in group games, and help with the set!
Contact Megan at slate187@umn.edu with any questions.
STEM
Fishing & Pond Mucking with Wild Rivers Conservancy - June 25
Fishing & Pond Mucking with Wild Rivers Conservancy @ Square Lake Park (Stillwater)
Tuesday, June 25th
Pond Mucking: 10am - 12pm Fishing: 12:30pm - 2:30pm
Square Lake Park 15450 Square Lake Trail N, Stillwater, MN 55082
Grades K-8 - Please dress in clothing that can get wet and dirty.
A bag lunch is required for anyone attending both sessions!
$8 for both sessions, or $5 for one session Adult helpers welcome for free!
Pond Mucking Session: Join Wild Rivers Conservancy and 4-H to find out what is living in Square Lake! While you may be familiar with fish, turtles, and frogs, there is so much more aquatic life that we often don’t see. WRC will teach us how scientists collect and identify aquatic macroinvertebrates—small animals without a backbone that live in the water. We will also learn why they are important and what they tell us about the water quality of the river. This event is a partnership between Washington County 4-H and Wild Rivers Conservancy.
Fishing Session: Professionals from Wild Rivers Conservancy will teach youth learn fishing basics such as equipment use, fish species identification, fishing regulations & ethics. No experience necessary! All they need to bring is a positive attitude, weather-appropriate clothing and a water bottle! No fishing license? No problem! Program participants will be allowed to fish at this event without a license for CATCH and RELEASE, due to an educational fishing license waiver with MN DNR.
An additional waiver will be required after registration.
30 participant maximum.
If you’re interested in volunteering with STEM programming, please contact Ashton! kules010@umn.edu
STEM Field Trip - July 17
Join us on our summer STEM field trip to the Bell Museum and Gibbs Farm! Grades 3-12 are invited to hop on the bus at Hooley Hall and have a fun-packed day of learning! We will do some hands-on science, see a planetarium show, and travel back in time to learn about technology from past generations.
Adults- please consider attending as a chaperone!
Wednesday, July 17th
9am - 4pm
Cost: $20
Grades 3-12
*BYO bag lunch
Register: z.umn.edu/BellGibbsFieldTrip
Outdoor Skills & Stories Day Camps - Aug.12-16
Calling all Cloverbuds! Gain some outdoor skills, learn about nature, and read fun books! Grades K - 3 (maximum of 20 participants)
- August 12-16, 2024 10am - 4pm each day
- Sally Manzara Nature Center (Lake Elmo)
- $25/day or $100/week if paid by August 1st. (Read on for more details. Scholarships available.)
- Campers will bring their own lunch. Snacks will be provided.
- Register: z.umn.edu/OSScamp
About Camp:
The topics explored in this five day summer camp are Birding, Water, Hiking, Fishing, and Camping. We will work with local guest teachers on the beautiful grounds at Sunfish Lake Park to get hands-on experience in the outdoors! For examples of the curriculum we'll be using, visit the Outdoor Skills & Stories Day Camp Guide.
Monday: Birding Day
Campers will learn how to become more aware of the natural world around them, how to record observations, and fun facts about birds in our area.
Tuesday: Water Day
The book We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom will set the tone for a day focused on learning about our natural resources and how to care for them. Lessons from indigenous educators and guest speakers will help steer youth towards new skills and understandings.
Wednesday: Fishing Day (camp location will be offsite this day! More info to follow.)
Campers will learn about fishing skills, food chains, and (hopefully) do some real fishing at a local body of water! Through interactive games, videos, and the option of a fishing trip, youth gain a better understanding of fish and fishing!
Thursday: Hiking Day
After learning important preparation skills, campers will get outdoors and explore the trails at Sunfish Lake Park. Closed-toe shoes, water bottles, and backpacks are required this day.
Friday: Camping Day
This day of camp will give youth a chance to experience camping for a few hours. We will have tents, sleeping bags, packs, cooking supplies, and more to set up a fun and educational “campsite.” Everyone will have a chance to practice new skills, keep building on what they’ve learned throughout the week, and reflect on how camp has changed the way they interact with natural spaces!
Daily fees are $25 per day or $100 for all 5 days if we receive payment BEFORE August 1st. Cash or check only made out to Washington County 4-H. All payments should be sent to the following address:
Washington County 4-H
14949 62nd Street North
Stillwater, MN 55082
Fees after August 1st are $30 per day or $130 for all 5 days.
Email ashton@umn.edu to learn more!
Youth Leadership Opportunities
***New Deadline!!***
4-H post secondary scholarships! - Due July 1
It is that time of year that 4-H members going on to postsecondary education can apply for the Washington County 4-H Federation and/or Memorial Scholarship. Farm Bureau also offers a scholarship for youth whose parents are Farm Bureau members.
Please read the requirements before you apply! Scholarship winners will be announced at the County Fair Recognition event on Sunday, August 4 at 6:30 pm on the fairgrounds.
Farm Bureau Scholarship (Due July 1, 2024)
Washington County Federation Scholarship (Due July 1, 2024)
Washington County Memorial Scholarship (Due July 1, 2024)
Adele Clemens Memorial Scholarship (Due July 1, 2024)
Seeking Federation Officers - Due June 21
Would you like to take your leadership skills to the next level? We will be electing the 2024-2025 Washington County Executive Board on Monday, June 24 beginning at 7:00 pm at Hooley Hall on the fairgrounds. The Exec Board is a leadership team similar to club officers, but on the county level. The officer team is made up of a; President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Historian, and 6 District Reps. We also have 6 adults who serve 2 year year terms. If you are interested in serving as an adult on the Board, please let Ann know at; churc109@umn.edu and you will be put on the ballot. All 4-H members and volunteers are invited to attend this Federation Meeting. We need at least one half of all the clubs ‘present’ to vote!
If you are a 4-H member who has completed 7th grade or older and would like to apply, Federation Application
What is the Washington County 4-H Federation?
The Washington County 4-H Federation is the county-level program and policy decision-making body for the Washington County 4-H club program. The full Federation is composed of youth and adult leaders from all 4-H clubs. The Federation meets quarterly, in October, January, April, and June. The organization is guided by an Executive Board composed of eleven youth and six adult representatives. The Executive Board meets the months between Federation meetings; September, November, February, March, May.
Who is eligible to be on the Executive Board?
The Washington County 4-H Federation Constitution states that youth officers "shall be elected for a term of one year only, but any given 4-H youth leader can hold a different office or position in ensuing years, providing it is not the same office or position held in a previous year. At the June Annual Meeting, youth who have completed grades 7-12 are eligible to vote and run for office. Youth must be enrolled in the Youth Leadership project in the year in which you are a Federation officer."
What is the time commitment?
Officer candidates should consider their other time commitments when applying. Please make sure you are available to attend meetings on the fourth Monday of each month. We cannot run a meeting without officers
Please direct any questions to Ann Church at churc109@umn.edu
Washington County 4-H Calendar
Cloverbuds
- Cloverbuds Rule Change - Cloverbuds will be able to exhibit at the Washington County Fair. General rules can be found in the Cloverbud Information sheet.
Dog Project
- July 27-28 - County 4-H Dog Show
- Sept. 21-22 - State Dog Show
Horse
- July 16 - Practice Horse Show
- July 31 - County 4-H Horse Show
- Sept. 13-16 - State Horse Show
Livestock
- February 15 - Market Beef/Dairy Steer ID deadline
- May 15 - Animal ID deadline (Dog, Horse, Llama, Rabbit, Dairy, Breeding Beef, Sheep, Swine, Goat (market & dairy) and leased poultry). Start entering your animals now.
- June 21 - In person Livestock Quality Assurance Training - Dee Brothers LLC in Northfield, MN - 8:45AM-12:00PM (Registration through 4honline)
Performing Arts
County Arts-In registration due July 1
Arts-In is a 30-minute original musical performed daily at the Washington County Fair and twice at the Minnesota State Fair. The show is put together over the 4-day encampment held at the Washington County Fairgrounds in July. The cast consists of performers, band members, and the technical crew. The 2024 dates include: July 7 - auditions, July 14-17 - encampment and July 31-Aug. 4 - performances at the county fair. Additional performances and dates will be listed on the registration form.
July 15 - Intro to Arts-In. Open to 6th graders wanting to learn what Arts-In is all about. More information and registration above in the Performing Arts section.
STEM
June 25 - Pond Mucking with Wild Rivers Conservancy (Limited to 30, register early)
July 17 - Field Trip to the Bell Museum & Gibbs Farm (Limited to 30, register early)
Aug. 12-16 - Outdoor Skills & Stories Day Camps (Limited to 20, register early)
Summer Camps
- July 8-11 - 4-H Summer Day Camps will be held at the Washington County Fairgrounds, Day Camps are open to grades K-6. Registration in this newsletter.
Washington County Fair
- July 1 - County fair registration deadline. Final selection of projects and animals need to be entered in FairEntry by this date.
- July 27 - 4-H General project judging (Saturday)
- July 27-28 - County 4-H Dog Show
- July 31- Aug. 4 - Washington County Fair
Youth enrollment and animal ID deadline
- May 15, 2024
- Participation is limited after May 15 (Not eligible for champions, auction, premiums or state trips) Blue, red and white ribbons only.
Washington County Fair News
2024 County Fair Information Book - Premium Book
Summer is here, which means that the Washington County Fair will be here before we know it! Now is the time to not only identify your project animals, but to start making plans for general projects! The 2024 Washington County 4-H Information Book will give you many exhibit ideas on what to bring to the county fair! Check out the fair schedule, rules, project ideas, etc. Plan ahead, let’s make this the best fair ever! Remember that July 1 is the Fair Entry deadline to let us know what you plan to bring to the fair! To access, click on green button below.
FairEntry now Open! - Must be completed by July 1
Welcome to FairEntry for the 2024 Washington County Fair! This is where you will register the projects and animals you intend to bring to the fair.
Please sign in using your 4HOnline email and password. It will be helpful to have a link to the 2024 Washington County Fair 4-H Information Book for general fair rules and project details. This book can also be located on the Washington County Extension website. Please note classes are based on grade completed NOT grade going into.
DEADLINES!
- Online registration must be completed by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, July 1.
- Or a list of classes emailed to the Extension Office by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, July 1.
Food Stand Sign Up
The county fair is a couple months away and we are looking for volunteer helpers at the 4-H Food Stand! This is one of our biggest fundraisers of the year and all proceeds go to supporting 4-H youth programming in Washington County!
Adults and youth (grades 3+) are invited to help us make this fundraiser a success. Tasks include counter service, cooking, food prep, cleaning, stocking, and more.
Sign up early to get your choice shift!
We are also looking for water bottle donations! If your family, 4-H club, business, community group, etc. would like to donate bottles of water to the food stand, please let us know! This is a great way to help 4-H raise money and keep folks hydrated during the fair. (16oz. bottles preferred.)
New this year: Washington County 4-H clubs will receive a slice of the profits! Clubs will receive gifts based on the number of volunteer hours they serve in the food stand!
Community Impact Recognition
Have any of your projects made a positive difference in your community? Earn recognition at the county fair for your Community Impact by showing it in your exhibit and telling the judge about it.z.umn.edu/4HCommunityImpact
4-H Graduates at the Fair!
We are looking forward to acknowledging you at the County Fair!
There are a few tasks we need from you IF you choose to be recognized:
We would appreciate having a poster board of you displaying pics of your 4-H memories/experiences. These posters will be displayed in the 4-H building during the county fair. Please bring your poster with you to General Judging Day on Saturday, July 27 between 10-4.
Please complete and return your ‘grad application’ to Ann at: churc109@umn.edu no later than July 1 if you want to be recognized Sunday night at our Awards night! Applications will not be accepted at the County Fair!
Livestock & Horse Exhibitors are encouraged to fill out the attached ‘Livestock Graduation Questioner’ that will be read during your specific specie livestock/horse show. The completed Livestock Questionnaire needs to be emailed back to Ann at; churc109@umn.edu no later than Monday, July 22nd. Please do not wait until the last minute.
Friend of 4-H - seeking applications!
Every year we recognize a volunteer who has dedicated their time and energy to the 4-H program! Is there a 4-H adult who has influenced you, supported you along your 4-H journey, helped you learn about a project, etc? Typically this honor goes to an adult who has served our organization for many years! To nominate an individual, please write a few paragraphs on what this person has done, and how they have impacted you or other 4-H’ers. Please send nominations to Ann at; churc109@umn.edu by July 1. The Executive Board reviews the nominations and makes the final selection! This person will be honored at the County Fair Recognition event.
Champion Program
Adult Volunteer Opportunities
Looking for volunteers who can teach woodworking, metal work, mechanics, and more!
Washington County 4-H is looking for volunteers to help host an Industrial Technology project exploration day! If you enjoy working with youth and have experience in any of the following areas, please fill out our volunteer form or email ashton@umn.edu.
- Woodworking
- Metal work
- Shop
- Small engine repair
- Machinery
- Automotive
- Repair or maintenance of items
- or anything related to these areas!
Please pass on your knowledge and skills by becoming a 4-H volunteer!
Clover News
THANK YOU!
Special thanks to the Horse Camp Committee for coordinating such a great camp for our Horse Project Members! There are a LOT of details to work through with over 50 youth participating in an overnight camp along with their horses! Thank you to Lisa Kalka for leading the charge, along with dedicated committee members; Nicole Filler, Jill Leyde, Brittani Clymer, Kristin Leko, Linda Nehring, Meg Jungbluth, Pat Calkins, Lill Linder, Jeanie Strohfus, Jodi Collette, and Larry Moskiewicz. Our overnight chaperones; Nicole Filler, Jill Leyde, Makenzi Marier, Molly Rydeen, Jeanie Strohfus, and Lisa Kalka!
Horse Camp Particpants
We also need to give a shout out to the 4-H campers who participate in camp! We had a great group of kids! Thank you to the parent volunteers who filled their work shifts, whether that was in the kitchen helping Larry, or standing in the rain helping with the show, and everything in between, you were appreciated!
Club Corners
Woodbury 4-H Club
At our June meeting, Kennedy gave a presentation about her dog project. After that, guests from the Washington County Climate Impact Corps and Master Gardeners led youth through an activity in which they analyzed soil samples that members brought from home. It was a fun, messy time!
Calling all club reporters or secretaries!
Please send a short report about your club's activities. Email Kathy at eber0002@umn.edu after you have had your monthly meeting or an event! Include 1-3 photos if you can. Thank you!
Statewide Events
Virtual & In-Person Opportunities
Register now for State Arts-In!
Youth who have completed 9th grade - 1 year post high school—Come together in August with other teens from across the state. 22 days go by fast as we put together a show (build the set, make the costumes, play in the band, or be on stage)! Experience life at the Minnesota State Fair and discover more of what you are capable of! Register by June 30 for a special discount! Learn more and register.
Join the 4-H Plastic Sculpture Challenge this summer
Youth of any age are invited to create plastic sculptures from unwanted materials and learn about the harmful impacts of our overuse of single-use plastics. Individuals, teams, family groups and club teams can enter. Learn more about how to show at your county fair and the Minnesota State Fair where two sculptures from every county will be on display! Learn more and register.
Join the 2024 Engineering Design Challenge!
Engineering for a Changing Climate is the theme for the 2024 Minnesota 4-H Engineering Design Challenge (EDC). The Engineering Design Challenge helps youth in grades 3+ develop problem solving skills in a team-based atmosphere. Form a team and show your machine locally and at the state EDC showcase event! Explore this year's EDC and access resources available to support teams, like hands-on activities and a webinar on how to use artificial intelligence to help design solutions to this year's challenge. Learn more and register.
Summer 4-H video workshop: Become a filmmaker
Youth in grades 8+ are invited to join us Aug. 6-8 on the UMN St. Paul Campus and Minnesota State Fairgrounds for this exciting opportunity to work with other 4-H’ers who love filmmaking! The in person, overnight workshop will be preceded by three 1-hour virtual learning sessions. Whether this is your first video or you already have experience, this camp is for you! You’ll learn how to use video equipment, develop a storyboard, and practice skills using lighting, sound, and editing—all while creating a short narrative video. You’ll be filming with the Minnesota State Fairgrounds as a backdrop, and sleeping and eating in the 4-H Building. The program will culminate in a film festival with youth films taking center stage in the 4-H Building during the Minnesota State Fair. Instructors include University faculty who teach video production and professional filmmakers. The workshop will also include a field trip related to video. Generous donors to the 4-H video project allow the cost to be kept low for this program—cost is $100 (Scholarships may be available from your local county 4-H program). If an additional scholarship is needed due to financial constraints, please contact Anne Stevenson (steve020@umn.edu) to discuss. Registration deadline: July 9. Learn more and register.
Grow with the Minnesota 4-H plant sciences program!
The Minnesota 4-H plant sciences program is blooming like never before, and you definitely don’t want to miss out on all the exciting developments! By signing up for our listserv, you’ll receive quarterly updates packed with the latest highlights and successes from our statewide programming. Our next update is sprouting soon, so make sure you're on the list to stay in the know. With amazing events and activities happening all across Minnesota, there's so much to share and celebrate. Don’t keep this green goodness to yourself—spread the word and encourage others to sign up too! Stay connected, stay informed, and let's grow together! Sign up for the listserv.
University of Minnesota Extension
Families and youth
University of Minnesota Extension works across the lifespan. We create and support positive non-formal learning opportunities for youth. We foster resilient, healthy and secure futures for families and seniors. Extension works with Minnesotans to make informed decisions leading to better health and well-being. Learn more at: https://extension.umn.edu/families-and-youth
Food, health and nutrition
University of Minnesota Extension improves food literacy, physical activity, food safety and healthy food access for Minnesotans and the food service industry. Learn more at: https://extension.umn.edu/food-health-and-nutrition
Yard and garden
The best plants and gardening practices for Minnesota gardeners, homeowners and hobbyists to grow healthy lawns, landscapes and gardens. Learn more at: https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden
4-H Family Tips
Things to do to get off to a good start
Enroll/Re-enroll youth for the 2023-2024 4-H year through 4honline. (4-H year runs from Oct. 1 - Sept. 30) To participate fully in county fair and state events you must be enrolled by May 15.
- Enroll/Re-enroll as an adult volunteer. Complete the process now so you are ready to step in when you want to or are needed. Volunteer application.
- Pay County membership fee $25/youth or $100 max/family (youth only). Scholarships available. Fees are not prorated.
- Once your enrollment is complete you can start registering for events and activities. Save time and complete the enrollment process now. 4honline
- All links and information about enrollment/fees can be found at the end of this newsletter.
Still looking for a club to join?? Contact the club to confirm their meeting place and time. Feel free to attend multiple club meetings to find the right fit for your family. Once you have decided what club to join, please contact the club to make sure you are on their email list.
Feel like you missed something? All Family Newsletters are posted on our county website under 4-H family newsletter.
Enrollment Information
The 4-H year runs from October through September and you can join at any time of year however the $25 yearly fee is not prorated. Joining after May 15 means you can participate but will not be eligible for Champions, state trips or livestock auction or premiums at the County Fair. To be eligible for state trips you must have completed 6th grade ( 3rd grade for Dog Project) and be enrolled by May 15. Families are encouraged to enroll/re-enroll early to get the most out of 4-H. The most important part of re-enrolling is updating your information. Maybe you have a new email, new projects to add, changing to a different club, updating the grade you are in or any health updates. All of this and more can be done though your family account in 4honline. https://v2.4honline.com/
Remember you must re-enroll yearly to participate in 4-H! If you have any problems with registrations or need more information on enrollment please contact our office by email at mnext-washington@umn.edu or phone at 651-430-6800. While the 4-H year is a year-round organization, you must be enrolled BEFORE May 15th to avoid any penalties. This is also the deadline that all animals must be identified in your family account.
Enrollment fee
As you will notice, shortly (perhaps a day or two) after you enroll online you are approved. Monthly email reminders are sent to families to pay their membership fee. Membership fees help keep our programs affordable for all, please pay your membership fee or fill out a scholarship form below. We accept checks/cash at any time. Sorry no credit cards.
Washington County has a yearly enrollment fee of $25.00 per member (youth only) or $100 max per family for 4 or more children. We ask that you please send payment to our office or use the drop box at the main entrance of the Stillwater Government Center in a clearly marked envelope.
Checks should be made out to Washington County 4-H and sent to the following address:
Washington County 4-H
14949 62nd Street North
Stillwater, MN 55082
**For those using online banking, please be sure to include Washington County 4-H as checks made out to just Washington County go directly to the property tax office**
We don't want anyone to miss out so if you need help, please just let us know by completing a scholarship form.
Code of Conduct update
Consent to the code of conduct is part of enrollment. The code of conduct for youth, parents and volunteers has been updated to prohibit the possession or use of marijuana.
Summer Interns
Deidra Meyer
Hi! My name is Deidra Meyer. I am an incoming junior at the University of Minnesota- Twin Cities majoring in Agriculture Communication & Marketing. I will be one of your Washington County 4-H Interns this summer! I am from Amery Wisconsin which is a small town just across the St. Croix. I grew up on a hobby farm where we raised swine, goats, and sheep! We called ourselves three-month farmers because we raised animals solely for the fair. I showed animals at the fair for a total of 10 years in both 4-H and FFA. Fair time was always the best time of the year because it was a time to showcase the hard work we put into their animals the months prior. Throughout my time in both 4-H and FFA, I learned the immense value that these organizations provide to the community. I am so excited to be a part of the Washington County community! Deidra can be reached at meye3627@umn.edu
Abbey Rademacher
Hi, my name is Abbey Rademacher and I am so excited to be returning as one of the 2024 Summer Interns! I just finished my junior year studying Elementary Education and specializing in Early Childhood Education at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. I was in 4-H in Washington County for 14 years and an intern last year. I could not be more excited to continue serving the Washington County 4-H community yet again this year. I hope to get to see many old and new faces throughout the summer and can’t wait to continue making the best better!! Abbey can be reached at radem181@umn.edu
Roles of Local Youth Educators
Ann Church - Livestock (Beef, Dairy, Llama, Sheep, Swine, Poultry, Rabbit), Horse, Shooting Sports, Federation, Community Clubs, Fair, Charters and Finance, Grant writing, Foods & Creative Arts projects.
Megan Slater - Youth Teaching Youth, Ambassadors, Performing Arts, Resident/Day Camps, Dog, Goat, Cloverbud.
Ashton Kulesa - STEM, Project Workshops, New Families, Promotion, Food Stand, Outreach and Libraries.
Contact information is listed below.
Ann Church
Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
(651) 430-6809
churc109@umn.edu
Megan Slater
Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
(651) 430-6805
slate187@umn.edu
Ashton Kulesa
Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
(651) 430-6807
Kathy Erf
Principal Office & Administrative Specialist
(651) 430-6800 or (651) 430-6803
eber0002@umn.edu
Washington County 4-H
14949 62nd Street North
Stillwater, MN 55082
(We are located in the Stillwater Government Center)
Office hours - Please call ahead as staff hours do vary.
8:00am-4:30pm (Monday-Thursday)
Friday by appointment
651-430-6800 or mnext-washington@umn.edu
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