The 4-H Update
June 9, 2023
Deadlines and Events
You MUST enroll in 4-H by June 15 to participate in fair
To enroll in 4-H for 2023, click here.
For returning families, please do not create a new account; rather use your log-in credentials for 4honline used in previous years. Instructions can be found here: https://4h.unl.edu/enroll/returning-member. Enrollment instructions for new families can be found here: https://4h.unl.edu/enroll/new-member.
Please note the enrollment fee for Douglas-Sarpy counties is $10 per member and is paid online. Enrollments are due June 15, 2023.
Please contact Mary Dierks at mdierks@sarpy.com with any questions.
New 4-H Volunteers for Douglas-Sarpy 4-H will need to be screened and have a background check done. Volunteers may not work with youth until volunteer enrollment and screening is complete. To begin the screening process visit and enroll via 4-H Online.
New members handouts can be found at https://go.unl.edu/newmemberhandouts
IMPORTANT Deadlines
ANIMAL AFFIDAVIT/ID FORMS- June 15
If you would like to submit Livestock ID forms via email, please send them to brett.kreifels@unl.edu, or bring them to the office at 8015 W. Center Road, Omaha.
See the forms at
https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/douglas-sarpy/sarpy-county-and-nebraska-state-fairs/ (scroll half way down)
For more information, contact Brett Kreifels, Urban Program Coordinator at brett.kreifels@unl.edu
YQCA Deadline - June 15
Nebraska 4-H requires all youth enrolled in livestock projects (including rabbits and poultry) to complete annual quality assurance certification through Youth for the Quality Care of Animals (YQCA).
Participants can take the course online ( https://yqcaprogram.org/) for $12. Click on the word "Home" on the left of the green bar to get to the courses. Then scroll down to find your age appropriate course.
After completing the online course, you will need to send a copy of your completion certificate to Brett (brett.kreifels@unl.edu) You will access your certificate from the drop-down menu on your username by clicking "Course Certificates."
Help Video: Web-Based Training
Questions: help@yqcaprogram.org
June 15 Deadline for Livestock Going to State Fair and AK-SAR-BEN
- Livestock Achievement Program encourages youth to engage in a variety of activities related to their project 4h.unl.edu/livestock-achievement
- 2023 Nebraska State Fair 4-H/FFA Livestock - Families can now begin entering in their 2023 Nebraska State Fair 4-H/FFA livestock nominations.
Show Stock Manager Information https://showstockmgr.com/
The 2023 Step-by-Step Nomination Instructions: https://4h.unl.edu/livestock-id.
- State Fair and AK-SAR-BEN DNA and Hair Samples - All Breeding Beef, Sheep, Swine and Goats going to state fair MUST have hair pulled and DNA sample submitted along with being nominated in Show Stock Manager by June 15th, 2023.
All Feeder Calves must also have hair pulled and DNA sample submitted and the animal must be nominated in Show Stock Manager by June 15, 2023. All Market Beef, Market Swine and Feeder Calves must still have an 840 EID
Papio Valley Livestock Progress Show - SIGN UP BY JUNE 16
Make plans to join us for the 37th Annual Papio Valley Livestock Show
Goat, Sheep & Beef Show • Saturday, June 24, 2023
Sarpy County Fairgrounds – Springfield, NE
Entry Fees: Beef & Bucket Calf- $25 per head • Sheep/Goat -$15 per head
Showmanship-FREE • Clover Kids-FREE • Sheep Lead -$15
**NEW** Pre-Entry of Livestock
This year will be trying out a pre-entry system for the Livestock show. Please click on the link to pre-enter. Payment will be taken at the show.
DEADLINE FOR PRE- ENTRY: FRIDAY, JUNE 16TH AT 11:59 PM
LINK: https://forms.gle/Jpq4MmFifQV4G5Uv6
NO Substitutions after submission
Learn more at https://files.constantcontact.com/f3efa1f3101/1d4a01d7-1db2-40da-b30e-98e126ee17d1.pdf
Sign up for your size so everyone can enjoy their free 4-H t-shirt!
FREE t-shirts are available to all youth who are enrolled in Douglas-Sarpy 4-H! Please fill out one form per youth. Registration is due by June 30. Questions? Email Katherine at ksundgren@unl.edu, email Brett at brett.kreifels@unl.edu, or call 402-444-7804. The shirts will be available for pick up July 20th at the Douglas-Sarpy Extension Office. If you're unable to pick them up at the office, they will be available at the Sarpy County Fair. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/5SwoNA8L9oWksS7f9.
Feature of the Week
4-Her - Aubrey Salinas
Interested in showing a cavy? Check out the 4-H Cavy Fitting & Showmanship guide from our partners in Michigan at https://www.canr.msu.edu/rabbits_cavies/uploads/files/cyi155_4-h_cavy_fitting_showmanship_2018_aa-web.pdf
Do you have a notable 4-H moment? Upload your project pictures to be included in our newsletter at https://go.unl.edu/4-hwinners
Livestock Project - Swine
The Nebraska 4-H livestock programs offer life-changing opportunities for youth. 4-H members practice life skills, such as responsibility, self-discipline, personal safety, goal setting, and keeping records. All livestock MUST have their identification paperwork submitted by June 15 to the Extension office.
See the 2023 Douglas-Sarpy 4-H Livestock Tag chart here for clarification. For more information, contact Brett Kreifels, Urban Program Coordinator at brett.kreifels@unl.edu
Pictured is Jolee DeWeese with her Reserve Champion Market Gilt from the 2022 fair.
Static Project of the Week - Aerospace/Rocketry
This week's project of the week is Aerospace/Rocketry
This category gives 4-H'ers a chance to display the rockets and drones they have created. Through participation in this category 4-H'ers will show judges what they learned about and how they adapted their exhibit throughout this project. Involvement in SET Aerospace gives participants a first-hand experience in modern technology. For help getting started with this project contact your county 4-H office. Skill level of project is not determined by number of years in project. Skill level is determined by the level listed on the manufacturing packaging.
Learn more in the fairbook at https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/douglas-sarpy/pdfs/4-H/4h-sarpy-fair-aerospace-and-rocketry-2023.pdf
Volunteers of the Week - Livestock Premium Auction Co-Chairs
Special Thank you goes out to our Livestock Premium Auction Co-Chairs: Justin & Sandy Wagner, Chad & Kelly Krapp, Mike & Beth (Meister) Carlson. Your hard work to support the 4-H program is appreciated!
The public is invited to support local 4-Her's livestock projects by bidding during the Sarpy County Premium Auction on Saturday, August 5th. Learn more at https://www.facebook.com/events/776048967167433
Workshops and Classes
Paddock Posse - June 9
Please join Douglas-Sarpy's Horseless Horse Club!
Where: Nebraska Extension Douglas-Sarpy Central Office, 8015 W Center Rd. Omaha
When: June 9 (usually the first Friday of every Month) at 5 pm
Who: Youth ages 8-18
Let's learn more about the Horse Industry and Horse Related Topics!
You need to rsvp with Alaina at Alaina.kauffman@unl.edu
Fashion Show Workshop - Register By June 13
Register by June 13 to attend the 2023 "4-H Fashion Show workshop" and get some great ideas and tips as you prepare for the 4-H Fashion Show Contest! The workshop is free and open to ALL youth ages 5-18.
The workshop will be held in person on Thursday, June 15th | 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm at the Douglas-Sarpy Extension Office on 8015 W Center Road, Omaha, NE 68124.
https://forms.gle/XtdPzK8CvEBvFKh59
4-H Quilt Club - June 20
When: Tuesday, June 20, 2023
Time: 6:30-8:30 pm
Where: Celtic Quilter, 5080 S. 108th Street, Omaha
For more information, contact Club Leader Stephanie at (stephkucera@hotmail.com).
*This club usually meets on the third Tuesday of the month.
Wildlife & Conservation Class - June 21
Are you interested in wildlife and nature? Do you wonder what animal made that track in your backyard? This is the workshop for you! During this workshop, youth will explore the basics of food chains, food webs, animal tracks, and wildlife conservation. Youth will design their own backyard habitat (a fair project!) and play a fun trivia game, plus much more. This workshop will really give them something to sink their teeth into!
Ideal for 10-15, although the workshop is open to all youth 8-18. Clover Kids are welcome if they are accompanied by an adult.
When: Tuesday, June 21, 2023
Time: 9 am to 12 pm
Where: Nebraska Extension Douglas-Sarpy Central Office, 8015 W Center Rd. Omaha
Cost: $10 per youth
Register at: https://forms.gle/ZUueC71SLXbAvSHJ8
Contact Katherine at ksundgren@unl.edu with question
Computer Coding Workshop - June 23
This engaging workshop will pique youth’s interest in computer science by exploring codes and programs using Ozobots! The Ozobot is a miniature robot with color sensors that allow it to follow lines and read color codes to complete commands. In this workshop, youth will learn what makes a robot a robot, use color coding to tell a story, and explore Ozoblockly – an online coding program to create sequential block coding. This workshop is ideal for youth K-5th grade.
When: Friday, June 23, 2023
Time: 1:30-3:00pm
Where: Nebraska Extension Douglas-Sarpy Central Office, 8015 W Center Rd. Omaha
Cost: $10 per youth (Cash, check or Credit Card acceptable). Please bring payment June 23.
Register at: https://forms.gle/GLE4Zk8DWhMLrWbs7
For more information, contact Ericka ericka.murray@unl.edu
Watercolor Workshop - July 13
When: July 13, 2023
Time: 9 am to 12 pm
Where: Nebraska Extension Douglas-Sarpy Central Office, 8015 W Center Rd. Omaha
Cost: $15 per youth
For youth ages 10-18
Register at: https://forms.gle/oeXcvQ9mJFSt9fGC9
Registration deadline: Friday, July 7
Contests
2023 Horticulture Judging Contest Ends June 16
Do you know what it takes to pick the best fruit and vegetables out at the grocery store? Or do you know what judges are looking for when they judge your plants at the county fair? Have you ever wondered, what plant is that!?! We are excited to offer the opportunity to learn these and other important horticulture skills through the Online Horticulture Contest. The contest will be available now through June 16, 2023 at: https://go.unl.edu/hortcontest.
Learn more about the contest at https://newsroom.unl.edu/announce/4hstaff/15682/87747
June 29 - Table Toppers
When: June 29, at 6:30 pm
Where: Nebraska Extension Douglas-Sarpy Central Office, 8015 W Center Rd. Omaha
July 7- Fashion Show Deadline
Entry form (deadline 7/7 midnight) https://go.unl.edu/4hfashion2023
Entries for the 4-H Fashion Show Contest are due by Friday, July 7th and the 4-H Fashion Show judging day will be held on Thursday July 13, 2023 at the Extension Office, 8015 West Center Road from 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm by appointment. Also, participants are required to model at the Sarpy County Fair Fashion Show on Wed. August 2, 2023 at 6:00 pm and to enter their project as an exhibit to receive their fashion show ribbon and premium award.
See tips for preparing for the 2023 4-H Fashion Show here.
Showcase of 4-H Gems
The Douglas/Sarpy 4-H Council would like to encourage all eligible candidates to participate in the Douglas-Sarpy Showcase of 4-H Gems.
To be selected and honored as a 4-H Gem is a positive way to share your success and experiences throughout your 4-H career. Receiving the honor of being named a Diamond or Emerald 4-Her is an excellent addition to your resume and college scholarship essays. We encourage all eligible candidates to submit their application for the opportunity to participate so that we can celebrate all of your accomplishments throughout your 4-H career.
Eligibility requirements:
* Each candidate must have been enrolled in 4-H for at least 3 years previously and be currently enrolled as a Douglas/Sarpy 4-Her.
* Candidates for Emerald 4-Her must be completing their sophomore year in high school.
* Candidates for Diamond 4-Her must be completing their junior year in high school.
Get your application at https://files.constantcontact.com/f3efa1f3101/e844e20b-4235-4a82-8fc6-35cb5c8d3b0a.pdf
Fair Information
Fairbook
Check out the fairbook at https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/douglas-sarpy/sarpy-county-and-nebraska-state-fairs/
Looking to volunteer with a 4-H event?
- Clothing Area Superintendent to help keep things on track in the clothing area on August 1st, entry day.
- 2 volunteers for the Fashion Show judging day, July 13, (mainly to help read the narratives and call in contestants when it is their turn).
To volunteer please contact Stephanie at stephanie.thorson@unl.edu
SARPY COUNTY FAIR INFORMATION
- Sign up to volunteer at the Passport table for 2023. This year we are going to have two locations so that means we need even more volunteers! Signing up https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0c4bada92caaf5c52-2023#/
for more information about this fun volunteer opportunity, contact Alaina at Alaina.kauffman@unl.edu
- Animals and static item entry in the Showworks program will be open on July 1st. Watch future newsletter for the link.
- How to Prepare Photographs for Exhibit in 4-H at Fair - https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/dixon/HowToPreparePhotosForFair.pdf
- Home Environment - Supporting information is preferred for all Home Environment exhibit. Tag templates can be found at http://go.unl.edu/ne4hhomeenvironment
Horse and Livestock Information
Fremont 4-H Expo will be July 12-15
The Fremont 4-H Expo is open to 4-H Exhibitors from Burt, Butler, Colfax, Cuming, Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy, Saunders and Washington Counties. This year's Expo will be July 12-15, 2023.
Check out the schedule! https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/dodge/frfourhexhguide/
For more information, contact Brett at brett.kreifels@unl.edu
HORSE LEVEL TESTING FOR COUNTY FAIR ONLY
The Horse Level Testing requirements for youth participating in the Sarpy County Fair Horse Show ONLY are due July 15th. Learn more at https://4h.unl.edu/horse-advancement
Questions about Horse Level Test or to schedule a test, contact 4-H assistant Alaina Kauffman alaina.kauffman@unl.edu
Tack Cleaning Workshop
Get your tack cleaned before State Horse show. Come join Alaina as we clean tack together and get your tack in tip top shape.
When: July 11
Time: 5:30 pm
Where: Nebraska Extension Douglas-Sarpy Central Office, 8015 W Center Rd. Omaha
Register by July 1st. https://forms.gle/sDg2kfraeJupsRnm9
Contact Alaina with questions Alaina.kauffman@unl.edu
Ongoing Programs
Participate in the Quilts of Valor Program
The Douglas-Sarpy 4-H program would like to encourage our youth to participate in the Quilts of Valor program.
A Quilt of Valor® (QOV) is a quality, handmade quilt that is machine or hand quilted. It is awarded to a Service Member or Veteran who has been touched by war. The Quilt says unequivocally, “Thank you for your service and sacrifice in serving our nation.”
4-H members and volunteers can work alone or in groups to make the quilts. Perhaps you can find someone who will help donate fabric, batting or machine-quilting to complete your project. You may want to contact a service organization or other donors in your community to help provide funds for the Quilt of Valor. Learn more about the program at
https://4h.unl.edu/documents/Quilts%20of%20Valor%20State-wide%20Challenge%20GUIDELINES.pdf
Diamond Clover Program
2023 4-H Dates
June 9, 5 pm - Paddock Posse Horseless Horse Club
June 10 - Archery Contest, 8 AM, Sarpy County Fairgrounds
June 11-16 - Big Red Camp, UNL
June 13, 2023, 9 am - 12 pm - Discover Ancient Egypt
June 13, 2023, 1-2:30 pm - Rocket Launch Workshop - Beginner
June 14, 1-3:30 pm - Rocket Launch Workshop - Advanced
June 15 - 4-H Enrollment Deadline
June 15 - YCQA Deadline
June 19-July 14 - Summer Embryology
June 19-21 - 4-H Leadership Conference
June 21 from 9 am-12 pm* - Art for Relaxation/Mindfulness
- June 21 and Thursday, June 22 - Premier Animal Science Event (PASE) on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln East Campus
- June 23, 1:30-3 pm - Computer Coding Workshop
- June 23 - State 4-H Communications Event (including State 4-H Presentations and speech contest) - at University of Nebraska-Lincoln East Campus
- June 24 - Papio Valley Livestock Progress Show
- June 27 from 9 am-12 pm* - Wildlife Conservation
June 29, 2023 starting at 3 pm* - 4-H Table Toppers Contest
July 5, 2023, 4:30 pm - Rocket Launch forms due
July 7 - Fashion Show Sign Up Due
July 11, 5:30 - 4-H Tack Cleaning Workshop
July 12, 2023, 3:30-7 pm - Rocket Launch
- July 13 from 9 am-12 pm* - Discover Art Around the World
- July 20 from 9 am-12 pm* - Engineer an Empire: Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome
- August 2-6, 2023 - Sarpy County Fair
- Aug. 25 - Sep. 4, 2023 - Nebraska State Fair
*subject to change
Learn more
Leader Newsletter - Check out all the issues here.
The Nebraska 4-H Glossary https://4h.unl.edu/glossary
4-H Shooting Sports information can be found here.
Start a club: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/18S0FvDS90FXh_xsP5s-NSD3DKu1gVlx0?usp=sharing
New Member Handouts (Drive folder)
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1atu4VKDHTYukncs9_gVpRwPTY4MvbuRe?usp=sharing
New Member Guidebook
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j99YzlGpClOexfXZDJJrouP9USUTtVn_/view?usp=share_link
Nebraska Extension in Douglas-Sarpy Counties
Submit your community service project at 4h.unl.edu/csps
Email: douglas-sarpy4h@unl.edu
Website: www.douglas-sarpy.unl.edu
Location: 8015 West Center Road, Omaha, NE, USA
Phone: 402-444-7804
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/douglassarpy4h
Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made to Douglas-Sarpy County Extension at 402-444-7804 or douglas-sarpy@unl.edu
Nebraska Extension education programs abide with the non-discrimination policies of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the United State Department of Agriculture.