Washington County 4-H Newsletter
January 25, 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.
Upcoming events
4-H Fair Foodie Challenge! Registration Due - Jan. 28
4-H members have the opportunity to create a menu item that will enhance a current menu item sold at the county fair food stand! The 4-H fair foodie challenge competition will take place on the same day as our annual food revue event scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 3. Setup will take place at 9:30 a.m. on that day. The winner will have their food item featured during the county fair! Prizes will be included.
Categories will include:
- Breakfast item
- Lunch/Supper item
You can enter in both categories.
Requirements of entries:
- The food item will need to contain 65% of items currently inventoried for the Food Stand (See list of ingredients on the online registration form).
- The food item can contain up to 35% new ingredients.
Entries will be judged on:
- Creativity.
- Simplicity to replicate for large quantities and speed.
- Presentation.
- Taste.
The challenge winner will:
- Have the opportunity to learn about food prep and sales by working with the food stand committee.
- Need to attend two food stand committee meetings prior to the county fair to learn about ordering food, prepping food, sales, etc.
- Need to be available during the county fair to prep your food item each day it is served. There may be a limit on how many of the featured food items will be sold each day at the county fair.
- Work with the food stand committee to figure out how much added cost there will be to add their featured ingredients.
- Have the opportunity to learn the sales side (profit margins) when selling food.
- Experience what it is like to work in food service.
To REGISTER go to Food Stand Challenge
Shooting Sports Orientation Night! - Feb. 5
There will be a Shooting Sports Orientation Meeting on Monday, Feb. 5th, beginning at 6:30 pm at the Stillwater Gov’t Center. A few of our Trainers will be available to talk about the Shooting Sports Program and answer your questions. If you are new to the program, we encourage you to come and ask questions! Please register here!
Ambassador Social - Feb. 9
Current and interested Ambassadors (grades 7-13) are encouraged to attend our winter social at the Roseville Skating Center Oval on Friday, February 9th from 5-7 PM. Skating and dinner are included in the event - come enjoy some time on the ice with your friends! Deadline to register is February 5. Contact Megan with at slate187@umn.edu with any questions. Register here!
Ice Fishing with Wild Rivers Conservancy - Feb. 19
We’ll have all the necessities to help you or your child to catch your first fish. Participants will learn how to use the equipment, fish species identification, rules and regulations, and connections between clean water and fish populations. All you need to bring is excitement to learn and winter weather gear to stay warm on the ice. Grades K+ (a parent/caregiver must attend with youth under the age of 12.) Suggested donation of $10 per family, paid to Wild Rivers Conservancy at the event.
Monday, February 19th from 10:30 am - Noon at Lakeside Park, Bayport, MN
Warm winter clothing required.
Register here: z.umn.edu/BayportIceFishing
For more information, please contact Ashton! kules010@umn.edu
Cloverbud Workshop - April 27
Save the date for our next Cloverbud Workshop, scheduled for April 27th from 9 AM - Noon at Hooley Hall. Join the Washington County 4-H Ambassadors for a fun-filled day this spring!
Animal Science
Market Beef and Dairy Steer Identification - Due Feb. 15
Market Beef and Dairy Steers need to be tagged (4-H tag) and Identified in 4honline by February 15th. Information was emailed out to those enrolled in the beef project in January, the county letter can be found here.
Llama Project Bowl - Join now!
Project Bowl teams are in full swing practicing for upcoming competitions! If anyone is interested in joining the Llama Bowl team, please contact Barbara Mehta at; barbara.mehta512@gmail.com Llama teams go directly to the State Contest to compete which is scheduled for April 6 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School.
Interested in Pigeon Racing?
Have you ever thought of racing pigeons? We have a volunteer willing to work with 4-H youth interested in training and racing pigeons! What is pigeon racing? Pigeon racing is where you take a group of trained birds to a predetermined starting point one hundred, two hundred, or more miles away, you let them loose, and the bird that gets to their home loft the fastest wins. If you are interested in learning more, contact Ann @ churc109@umn.edu
Performing Arts
Arts-In Director Application - Due February 23
We are now accepting applications for the Arts-In Director position for our 2024 show season! This is a paid position that works with the Performing Arts Development Committee and student directors to write the script, select music, and put together all aspects of the Arts-In encampment. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age and previous Arts-In experience is preferred. Applications are due to the Extension office no later than February 23, 2024. Contact Megan at slate187@umn.edu with any questions. Application can be found here!
Performing Arts Night - April 19
The annual Performing Arts Night will be held on Friday, April 19th at the Stillwater Middle School Auditorium from 6-9 PM. The night will consist of Share the Fun, One Act Play, and Talent Acts. We know there is a lot of talent here in Washington County - showcase your skills individually or as a group at the Performing Arts Night!
REMINDER - All Performing Arts projects will be judged on April 19th, there will be no Performing Arts judging on General Project Entry Day. Don’t miss your chance to qualify for the State Fair!
Share the Fun Guidelines & Registration
One Act Play Guidelines & Registration
Talent Guidelines & Registration
Contact Megan Slater at slate187@umn.edu with any questions!
Youth Leadership Opportunities
Ag Ed Leaders wanted
Who would like to serve as an AG LEADERS?
Washington County has been selected as a host site for the Ag Ed Leaders in the Classroom opportunity!
What is the role of an Ag Ed Leader? This program is a "Youth Teaching Youth" program focusing on agriculture literacy and careers by a 4-H program in local school districts and it offers numerous advantages. The program provides experiential learning through hands-on activities, increases ag literacy, provides an opportunity to explore careers and fosters memorable experiences for the participants and youth teachers. Overall, this program promotes agriculture education, encourages networking and collaboration, and has a lasting impact on youth and sustaining agricultural tradition, Minnesota 4-H recently received a Minnesota Agriculture Education Leadership Council grant aimed at increasing ag literacy and ag education opportunities within Minnesota. With this grant, we plan to increase ag literacy, educate youth on careers related to agriculture and food production and provide a youth teaching youth opportunity.
We are looking for youth who may be interested in being an Ag Advocate. Below is the basic timeline and commitment of participating in the program!
- End of February: Youth Kick Off (2 hours online)
- March: 4, 1 hour virtual training sessions for youth
- March 8: Youth can participate in Change Lives, Teach Ag Conference at Ridgewater in Willmar.(Optional)
- Late March/Early April: County staff will assist youth in lining up at least 3 classrooms to teach in (teaching April 15 - May 15)
- Early April: Teaching supplies will arrive in county offices, to be distributed to youth leaders.
- April 15 - May 15: Youth Leaders teach in at least 3 classrooms
- May 20: Online Wrap Up/Celebration
All program supplies and materials to teach in the classrooms will be provided to counties through the grant for 2023. If you are interested in being an Ag Leader, please contact Ann @ churc109@umn.edu
Multiple 2024 Minnesota 4-H scholarships are available
Extension development and Minnesota 4-H offer several scholarships for college-bound 4-H youth, as well as a workforce training scholarship for an adult 4-H alumni or volunteer. Over $20,000 is awarded annually through a competitive application process. Minnesota 4-H scholarship online applications are now available. Applications require two letters of recommendation, with one being from an Extension educator. Please ask your Extension educator well before the deadline, last minute requests are frowned upon.
Visit the 4-H scholarship web page for detailed information about the various scholarships available and online applications. Direct questions to Fun Fun Cheng at, chen0169@umn.edu, 612-624-8132.
Submission deadline: April 1.
Washington County submission deadline: June 1.
Washington County Scholarships also available on our website.
Ambassador Registration
Don’t forget to register to be a 2023-2024 Washington County 4-H Ambassador! County Ambassadors are youth enrolled in grades 7-13 who want to take their leadership skills to the next level. Some opportunities 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.
Adult Volunteer Opportunities
Shooting Sports Certified Leaders Needed!
We are in need of additional Certified Trainers for the 2024 Season! We have a great group of Trainers, but with our growing program, we can use some additional help! Minnesota 4-H requires that all volunteers become ‘screened’ which is a 3 step process: How to become a screened 4-H Volunteer!
You will find information on how to become a Certified Trainer here: How to become a Certified Trainer Trainings are held throughout the state. Redwood Falls has a training coming up on Feb. 10th. We are hopeful that there will be more opportunities to attend training closer to Washington County in the coming months.
Certified Trainer classes are offered in the disciplines of archery, rifle/pistol, shotgun, muzzleloading, and wildlife. Currently, our county could use extra help in the disciplines of archery, and shotgun. We also need a Certified Wildlife Coordinator. Our 4-H program will cover the cost of the class. If this is something you would consider, please contact Ann @ churc109@umn.edu
Creative Arts Day teachers needed!
We are looking for volunteers willing to help with our Creative Arts event scheduled for the evening of Friday, March 1 at Hooley Hall. Creative Arts night is designed for 4-H members who have an interest in the arts. Youth rotate to different stations to learn a skill. Do you have a skill you can share, we are open to new ideas! 4-H will cover the costs of the material, this is a ONE night commitment! Can you help? If so, contact Ann at; churc109@umn.edu
Seeking adults and teens who can knit, sew, quilt, and more!
We are looking for volunteers to help teach workshops this spring on any of the following skills:
Clothing and textiles: sewing, alterations, weaving, apparel technology, etc.
Needle Arts: knitting, crocheting, embroidery and crewel, counted cross stitch, needlepoint, hardanger, weaving, appliqué, latchhook, tatting, hand embellishments, felting, or hand embroidery
Please contact Ashton at kules010@umn.edu for more information.
Save the dates - 2024!
Food Revue/Fair Foodie Challenge - Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024
Creative Arts Night - Friday, March 1, 2024
Washington County Horse Camp June 9 - June 12, 2024
Livestock Quality Assurance & Ethics Training - June 21 @ Dee's in Northfield, MN (More details in future newsletters)
Washington County Fair static judging - Saturday, July 27, 2024
Washington County Fair July 31 - August 4, 2024
Summer Camps
The summer calendar fills up quickly, so put 4-H Summer Camps in your calendar today!
4-H Summer Resident Camp, Overnight, Baker Outdoor Learning Center (Grades 3-8) - June 10-12, 2024
4-H Summer Day Camps at Washington County Fairgrounds (Grades K-6) - July 8-11, 2024
Registration and Camp Counselor Applications coming soon! Reach out to Megan Slater at slate187@umn.edu with any questions!
Statewide Events
In-Person Opportunities
4-H Wildlife Day
Who is ready for a day filled with winter fun and learning?
Are you interested or already involved in the project areas of wildlife, shooting sports or outdoor adventures?
Sign up for a 4-H Wildlife Day on February 10! Learn more here; https://extension.umn.edu/.../southwest-mn-4-h-wildlife...
Register for BLU and TEEL leadership workshops
February leadership workshop registration is now open! Building Leadership and Understanding (BLU) is a youth-led workshop for youth in grades 6-9 that strengthens leadership, communication, and relationship skills. Teens Engaged in Emerging Leadership (TEEL) is for youth in grades 10+ who want to boost their leadership skills. Become better leaders while having a great time! Learn more and register.
Virtual Learning Opportunities
Horseless Horse
Ever wish you had a horse? Are you interested in learning more about horses? Join the 4-H Horseless Horse Round Up to explore more about horses (no horse needed!). This virtual series is open to all youth in grades 3 and up. We will meet weekly to dive into a new topic with activities, speakers and more! To learn more, go to z.umn.edu/HLHRoundUp by February 1.
Plant Science
Calling young explorers! Join 4-H Explorers: Ag Around the World for a virtual adventure through Costa Rica, Ghana, and the Netherlands. Dive into exciting Google site activities, with optional check-ins and guest speakers. Program runs Feb 19 - Mar 11, perfect for 6th-8th graders. Ready to sow seeds of knowledge? Limited spots available!
Super Sitters
We are excited to bring you our Super Sitters Virtual Series this winter! Our goal is for you to walk away with the knowledge to be a Super Sitter Hero! Dates: February 20, 21, 22, 26, and 29 from 5:45 pm- 7pm for youth in grades 5th and up. Registration deadline is February 15. This is a FREE workshop! https://z.umn.edu/Supersittersclinic
Wildlife Wednesdays
Have you ever looked out your window and wondered about the animals that share the same environment as you do? How do they stay warm in the winter? Why do some of our winged friends fly south when the weather changes and some hang around? Discover the wonderful world of wildlife around you with Wildlife Wednesdays! Join us, virtually, as we explore and uncover the fascinating lives of the wildlife.
Sessions are held virtually on Wednesdays from 7 pm - 8pm on the following dates: January 31; February 7, 21, 28 ; March 6, 13, 20, 27; April 3, 10, 17 and 24.
For more information: https://z.umn.edu/WildlifeWednesdaysWinter2024
Minnesota 4-H livestock in a box series
This year's 4-H livestock in a box series will focus on the animal science project areas of pets (dog and cat), beef, sheep and swine. Each box will include all of the supplies necessary to complete lessons on breed identification, nutrition, health, care and associated careers. The lessons and hands-on learning activities are designed for youth in grades 4-7 to explore with little to no adult assistance. Boxes are $25 each, which includes shipping directly to homes. Families may select individual boxes or order the entire series. Learn more and register.
4-H Animal Discovery: Dairy cattle and goat
Youth in grades 3+ are invited to join this exploratory learning series highlighting two animal species: dairy and goat. This 5-session virtual series kicks off Feb. 5. Youth can expect fun, interactive lessons, at-home challenges and group reflection supported by 4-H members, volunteers and staff. Registration opens Dec. 4 and closes on Jan. 29. Learn more and register.
Let's Talk about Mental Health
Let's Talk about Mental Health is a 5-session series designed to provide a safe place for youth in grades 6 and up to have important conversations about mental health and wellbeing. This series demonstrates to youth that they are valued and welcomed by 4-H, and gives all youth the tools to be supportive and effective. The curriculum was created by Minnesota 4-H leaders in equity alongside local Extension educators.
Sessions include:
-Let's talk about mental health
-Words and culture matter
-A walk in their shoes (panel discussion with youth and adults impacted by mental health)
-What can I do?
-World cafe
Youth will be able to connect, share, and hear from facilitators in a safe and supportive environment online Jan. 9, 16, 23, 30, and Feb. 6 from 7 to 8 p.m. Learn more and register at https://extension.umn.edu/news/lets-talk-about-mental-health
Winter wonders: Explore plant growth and roots with 4-H Science Sprouts!
Discover how gravity influences plant growth and observe roots in action! Join us for an exciting winter series of 4-H Science Sprouts. This opportunity is open to youth in grades 3+ who are interested in plants and science. Online sessions will take place Jan. 22, Feb. 26, and March 25 from 5 to 5:30 p.m. Throughout this series, we'll explore how gravity affects plant life and delve into the fascinating world of root growth. We'll cover agronomy and horticulture topics tailored to the season using STEM. While there's no cost for the program, we'll share a list of optional supplies for those who want to try hands-on experiments at home. We'll send the list out a week before each gathering. Let's explore the wonders of science together in this engaging winter series! Learn more and register.
Join the virtual 4-H plant science team: Meet others who share the same passions and make new friends
The 4-H plant science team has tested virtual teams and found them to be effective in providing equal opportunities for youth to participate in showcase events. Last year, several teams used virtual practices to get ready for in-person events like the 4-H plant science project bowl and crop scouting. This format has helped 4-H plant science programming reach more youth across the state, who can join virtual teams without having to form teams within their county. The 4-H plant science team is eager to form more virtual teams and welcomes interested youth to join and make new friends statewide. Fill out this form to indicate your interest.
Virtual plant science trivia nights are back!
Do you love plants and want to have some fun? Join us for virtual plant science trivia nights starting in January! Every second week we have different days scheduled, so you have multiple options if a specific date doesn't work. Our first session is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 11, from 7:30 to 8 p.m. – test your plant knowledge and learn new facts while playing interactive games. No experience is necessary, just bring your curiosity and enthusiasm! Learn more and register.
Hybrid Opportunities
4-H Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP)
The 4-H Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP) is a hands-on environmental education program dedicated to teaching wildlife and fisheries habitat management to youth. It provides participants an opportunity to test their wildlife knowledge in a friendly competition with teams of 3-4 similarly aged individuals, led by a local 4-H volunteer coach. The winning senior WHEP team (14-19 years old) will have the opportunity to attend the annual National WHEP contest, typically held the last full week of July. 4-H WHEP replaced Wildlife Project Bowl. Learn more about WHEP.
Club Corner
Riverside Routers 4-H Club
In January, the Riverside Routers participated at Feed My Starving children. We packed 3,870 meals and there were 16 people in our group. What a way to give back!
Submitted by;
Grant Gorgus
Happy Hornets 4-H Club
The Happy Hornets club wanted to learn more about pottery this year so they partnered with a local art teacher. They learned about the different stages of clay, how a kiln works, and the different ways to glaze their projects. Each member was able to make a project to take home. Maybe we will see some of these projects at the county fair!
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!
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.
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, Food Stand, Outreach and Libraries.
Contact information is listed below.
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 Event cancellations based on weather
Staff will evaluate weather conditions and make a decision as to whether events will be canceled. Decisions to cancel an event will be based on;
• Forecasted low temperature and wind chill
• Total predicted snowfall
• The ability to safely operate vehicles (ice, snow, visibility)
• If area schools are canceled
To communicate a last minute cancellation, the staff leading the event will update their phone message to reflect the change of plans.
Re-enroll now!
Families are encouraged to enroll/re-enroll early to get the most out of 4-H in the coming year. 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.
Order your Washington County 4-H T-shirt today!
Show your 4-H pride with our new 2023-2024 t-shirt! This year’s design is printed on heather gray.
Youth who have paid their yearly enrollment fee can order a shirt for $10. Adults shirts are $20.
Use this link to order shirts for you and your family: z.umn.edu/Washington4-Hshirts
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
© 2023, Regents of the University of Minnesota. University of Minnesota Extension is an equal opportunity educator and employer. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this publication/material is available in alternative formats upon request. Direct requests to 612-624-2116.