Oakland County Animal Workshops in April

Animal Care & Well Being Workshop with Melissa Elischer, MSU Extension Educator Saturday, 4/21/2018, 10am-Noon MSU Tollgate Farm & Education Center, 28115 Meadowbrook Road, Novi   Please join us and the farm animals at Tollgate Farm & Education Center!! Learn basic animal care & welfare, biosecurity and disease prevention on the farm!  Price is $10/person for 4-Hers, $30/person for non 4-Hers (includes $20 4-H participation fee).  Please contact Debbie Morgan at morga194@anr.msu.edu  or 248-347-3860, ext. 279 to RSVP and if you have any questions!   Livestock Workshops at Bowers School Farm, Saturday, 4/21 and Saturday, 4/29 1219 E. Square Lake Road in Bloomfield Hills   Come out to the barn for some hands on experience with the farm animals at Bowers School Farm!! Learn basic terminology, care & nutrition, and anatomy of goats and cattle. The price is $15.00 per workshop for registered 4-Hers, $35.00 for non-4Hers (includes $20 4-H participation fee). Saturday, 4/21, 10a-Noon – Sheep, 3-5pm – Swine Sunday, 4/29, 10a-Noon – Goat, 3-5pm – Cattle Please contact Debbie Morgan at morga194@anr.msu.edu  or 248-347-3860, ext. 279 to RSVP and if you have any questions!

April kicks off 4-H True Leaders in Service

April kicks off 4-H True Leaders in Service activation Throughout the month of April, Michigan 4-H members, parents and volunteers are encouraged to pledge their hands to larger service by taking part in the annual 4-H True Leaders in Service initiative. This nationwide endeavor will connect 4-H’ers with their community as they lend a helping hand to those in need. The month-long  service activation will officially kick-off April 1 and will finish with the National 4-H Day of Service on Saturday, April 28.   Last year, nearly 7,000 youth and adults across the nation volunteered during the month of service, through nearly 400 registered projects. These individuals impacted approximately 65,000 people within their communities.   Make plans now to take part and host a service project of your own! There are lot of great ways to get involved, from donation drives to neighborhood cleanups! Visit www.4-H.org/true-leaders-in-service to learn more, access a planning guide, and register your project.

Money Smart Teens Series:

Money Smart Teens Series: In honor of Money Smart Week, Kathy Jamieson, MSU Extension Educator, will be hosting two workshops for teens to help them prepare for the future and understand their finances. As a bonus, there will be pizza Stash Your Cash Ages 10-16 Thursday, April 12, 2018 6:30 p.m. This interactive presentation will focus on making, saving, and spending money. You have the power to choose how you spend your money, but we don’t recommend spending it on dinner because pizza is being served! This program will take place at the Farmington Branch Meeting room located at 23500 Liberty Street, Farmington, 48335. Preregistration for this event is required, call (248) 553-0321 to register. It’s all about getting credit Ages 12-18 Monday, April 16, 2018 6:30 p.m. Wondering about credit cards, interest rates, and how it all works? Learn how to find the right credit card for you and stretch your buying power. This program will be held at the Farmington Community Library located at 32737 W. 12 Mile Rd, Farmington Hills, 48334. Preregistration for this event is required, please call (248) 553-6880.

Horse & Pony News!

Horse Protégé Program Several teen mentors (ages 13-19) are still needed for the Horse Protégé Program! This very fun and successful program matches an experienced teen in the horse program with a cloverbud (5-8 years old). The teams will work together on basic horsemanship, including grooming, health, nutrition, showmanship and equitation in a safe and educational environment.  Oakland County 4-H Horse Council will provide a free stall with a recognition plaque for the 2018 show season to all mentors!  The first ride meet is Thursday, 4/19!  Please contact Debbie Morgan at morga194@anr.msu.edu or 248-347-3860, ext. 279 ASAP. CIT at Tollgate Farm Beginner Horse Camp – applications due 4/2! The application for CIT positions at three Tollgate Farm Beginner Horse Camps (7/23-27, 8/6-10, 8/13-17) are due 4/2!  If interested or need more info, please contact Debbie Morgan at morga194@anr.msu.edu or 248-347-3860, ext. 279 ASAP. Discovery Day Open Mic Horse Show – Saturday, 4/28 with Audrey Karnes, 4-H Horse Judge Start the 2018 show season with NO PRESSURE!  Want to see how your horse will perform in the big arena? No show clothes or fake tails.  The announcer will explain the show process and riders will get feedback from a 4-H Horse Judge!  No ribbons will be awarded for class placings – the judge’s feedback is your reward! Showmanship (cloverbuds 5-8, 9-12 and 13 & Over) English Equitation (cloverbuds 5-8, 9-12 and 13 & Over) Open Pleasure (cloverbuds 5-8, 9-12 and 13 & Over) Western Horsemanship (cloverbuds 5-8, 9-12 and 13 & Over) Coggins and waivers will be required.  Helmets required for ALL riding classes.  $10/class, $15/stall (must be completely stripped), $10/horse trailer in fee.  For more info please contact Kate Molczyk at katemolczyk@gmail.com

2018 Spring Horse Workshop

MSU Extension Spring Horse Workshop at Tollgate Farm & Education Center – 5/21, 6:30-9:00pm This exceptional MSU Extension educational program includes outstanding presenters sharing the latest research trends, group discussions and skill-building activities in:    Basic Horse Health – Dr. Judy Marteniuk, Equine Veterinarian Forage (including interpreting a hay analysis) – Mike Metzger, Forage Educator Toxic plant ID & environmental considerations (manure management) Tom Guthrie/Equine Educator 2018 Spring Horse Workshop Registration fee is $10 per person and includes refreshments and snacks. RSVP REQUIRED $10/person includes refreshments and snacks.  RSVP is required.  Please contact Debbie Morgan for registration info at morga194@anr.msu.edu or 248-347-3860, ext. 279.

TIme for Success (April 14)

Time for Success

Your job or education can feel overwhelming at times.  Success on the Job will explore prioritizing, time management, and resource management techniques that can help you make decisions on the job. Time is running out to register for part 2 of this workshop series, registration closes on April 6! This workshop will be held at Tollgate Farm Activity Center on Saturday, April 14, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. to noon. The cost is $10. This workshop is open to all youth 11 and up. To register, visit https://events.anr.msu.edu/TimeForSuccess to register. Please contact Mary Blumka at blumkama@anr.msu.edu with questions. 

4-H Rabbit Workshop and Rabbit Royalty

Are you interested in getting started with a new rabbit project? Join us on Saturday, May 5, 2018 for a workshop that will cover rabbit breeds, showing, and rabbit care and health. The workshop will run 10AM to Noon at the Fair Community Room located within Springfield Oaks County Park. The cost of this workshop is $2 / participant. This workshop is mandatory for youth competing in the Rabbit Royalty contest. For more information and to reserve your spot, contact Mary Keen at 248-634-5397

Rabbit Royalty Application

Show off your rabbit knowledge and represent your club in the Rabbit Royalty Contest. Winners receive bragging rights, royal attire, and leadership opportunities representing Oakland County 4-H’s rabbit project area. The date for the rabbit workshop is still TBD, but you can get started on application here: Application

For questions, please contact Mary Keen at (248) 634-5397

APPLICATION PROCESS

1. Your application is due April 28th at Discovery Day or to be received by the 4-H office prior to April 27th. Please mail to: MSUE 4-H C/O MARY BLUMKA – 1200 N. Telegraph Road  Pontiac, Michigan 48341-0416
2. Please place your application in a clear plastic cover.
3. Your application should be no longer than 6 pages and 2 pages of pictures (if desired). 

• How long have you been raising rabbits?
• How many rabbits do you have?
• How long have you been involved in the 4-H rabbit program if different than question one?
• Describe what you have learned/done in 4-H with your rabbit.
• What leadership roles have you participated in without your rabbit?
• What leadership roles have you held – how many times?
• What have you done to promote 4-H and/or rabbits?
• What other youth groups do you belong to?
• Include anything else you would like to share with the selection committee.

For Questions on the application or program, Contact Mary Keen at (248) 634-5397

Oakland County Youth in Government Day (May 23rd)

2018 Youth in Government Day - May 23rd

This year's event will bring high school students from across Oakland County together to learn about local government, interact with judges and elected officials, and engage in mock debates. Students will have the opportunity to visit a courtroom and to learn about the forensics lab operated by the Oakland County Sheriff's Office. Eligible students will even have the opportunity to register to vote!

For more information, please call Senior Community Liaison Kate Layton at 248-452-9471 or email laytonk@oakgov.com. You can obtain a 2018 event registration form by clicking here. The registration deadline is April 27, 2018.

Oakland County 4-H Horse Judging Team

Oakland County 4-H Fun Match (Dog Show)

Registration is now open for the Oakland County 4-H Fun Match! Classes in Rally, Agility, Obedience, and Showmanship are offered for youth and adults. The registration form can be found HERE . Registration forms post-marked before May 3rd are eligible for discounts (see form for details). The Oakland County 4-H Dog Committee is seeking sponsorships to cover awards at this show. Details can be found on the Fun Match Sponsorship form at the link above. Questions about the 4-H Fun Match can be directed to OC4hDog@gmail.com.

Oakland County Fair Information

Employment Opportunity
The Oakland County Fair is looking for a Summer Intern/Data Clerk. Anyone interested must be at least 18 years old and have previous Oakland County Fair experience. For more information please contact the Fair Office at 248-634-8830.

4-H DISCOVERY DAY WILL BE SATURDAY, APRIL 28, 2018 Livestock tagging 9 am—1 pm

FAIRBOOK
The 2018 Fairbook is now available on our website: Oakfair.org. Check our website for specific information. Hard copies of the Fairbook are available for review at the Fair Office. You may also purchase a hardcopy of the Fairbook for $10. Supplies are limited.

RECORDS, FORMS AND APPLICATIONS
Record books, forms and applications are available on our website: Oak-fair.org Horse and Dog verification forms are currently available. Forms are located on the participate tab of the website.

HOW TO ENTER FOR FAIR
You must enter on line using our website: Oakfair.org . Online registration payments may be made by credit card, cash or check. Entries must be received in the Fair Office by June 1, 2018 to avoid any late fees. If you do not have access to the internet, you may come to the fair office and Use the computers in the office. Evening hours will be available by appointment.

REGISTRATION/PAYMENT DEADLINES
June 1, 2018-date entries must be re-ceived in the Fair Office to avoid a late fee.
June 2-8, 2018-on line entries received and accepted in the Fair Office with a $40.00 late fee.
June 8, 2017-last date entries will be received and accepted.
June 8, 2017, by 4:00 PM- last date payments will be accepted for all registrations. Postmarks will not be used to determine if your payment is on time.

HORSE AND DOG VERIFICATION FORMS
April 29, 2018-all horse and dog verification must be received in the Fair Office to avoid late fee. New this year we have an option to submit your horse/dog verification form online.
April 29-May 12, 2018-verifications received and accepted with a $25.00 late fee.
May 13, 2018-June 1, 2018-verifications received and accepted with a $100.00 late fee
June 1, 2018-last date verification forms will be accepted.
Color photo required for horse and dog verification forms

MEGA PASS AND GRANDSTAND ARENA PASS NOW AVAILABLE 
Mega Pass: $60.00 if purchased by July 1, 2018. $70.00 if purchased after July 1, 2018.
Grandstand Pass: $30.00 per person, good for all Grandstand Shows, sale ends July 8th

IMPORTANT DATES
April 28, 2018-Discovery Day
July 3, 2018-Barn Set Up
June 30, 2018-Exhibit Hall project check in, See Check In Schedule for Exceptions
July 6, 2018- Poultry Auction Birds check in
July 7 & 8, 2018-Livestock check in
July 8, 2018- Rabbit check in
July 10, 2018 -All other poultry check in

Livestock
Each exhibitor that sells at the 2018 Auction will be expected to work prior to the Fair on Fairground projects for 2 hours at scheduled work sessions. Work bee dates and times are:
June 9, 2018: 10 am-2 pm
June 10, 2018: 12pm-4 pm
June 30, 2018: 10 am-2 pm
July 1, 2018: 12 pm-4 pm
All Market Auction Entries are now in Department 11.

4-H Renewable Energy Camp

Explore Michigan State University’s campus while learning about ideas, research and opportunities in the field of natural resources and agriculture energy during the 2018 Michigan 4-H Renewable Energy Camp.   Taking place July 23 to 27, participants will be lodged in Shaw Hall as they learn from company executives, interactive farm tours, discussions with MSU professors and more.   The camp is open to youth ages 13 to 19 and registration closes June 1. Register at msue.anr.msu.edu/events/4_h_renewable_energy_camp_2.

Emerald Clover Society

Emerald Clover Society open for nominations! Do you know an outstanding Michigan 4-H alumnus? Nominate them for the Michigan 4-H alumni hall of fame - the 4-H Emerald Clover Society!  The Society honors individuals who have had significant Michigan 4-H involvement as a youth and who have made significant contributions to their local, state and national communities as adults. Nominations are being accepted now for the 4-H Emerald Clover Society Class of 2018. The deadline for nominations is April 30, 2018. For details and a nomination packet, visit www.mi4hfdtn.org.

Michigan 4-H Text, Talk, Revive Civility Challenge

Every day, 4-H’ers are rolling up their sleeves in service as they lead positive change that empowers their peers and their communities. 4-H members are not afraid of a challenge, and in fact, they are known to seek out challenges they can help solve with their knowledge, leadership skills and fierce resolve. This April, Michigan 4-H members are challenged to take on one of the most significant and widespread problems currently facing our nation: incivility. 4-H members can help revive civility across the state by taking the Michigan 4-H Text, Talk, Revive Civility Challenge. The challenge helps youth engage their families, peers and communities in conversation around civil dialogue while doing something they are already experts at: talking and texting! Taking part is just three simple steps: first, organize a group of three to five individuals and text CIVILITY to 89800. Next, with help from a series of text messages, have a one-hour conversation about civility to learn what it is, the importance of it, and how to incorporate it into everyday life. After learning about civility, take a picture of your group and post is on social media to keep the challenge going! The Michigan 4-H Text, Talk, Revive Civility Challenge is part MSU Extension’s celebration of the True Leaders in Service initiative. To learn more about True Leaders in service or to register your civility conversation as a service project, visit www.4-H.org/true-leaders-in-service. To learn more about the challenge, visit msue.anr.msu.edu/news/will_you_accept_the_2018_michigan_4_h_text_talk_revive_civility_challenge.

4-H Events and Workshops

 April 14: 4-H Night at the MSU Observatory

Michigan State University  Observatory, East Lansing
Engage in hands-on, space-related activities at this free event (weather permitting).
http://msue.anr.msu.edu/events/4_h_night_at_the_msu_observatory

April 14: State 4-H Goat Expo
Anthony Hall, Michigan State University, East Lansing
The State 4-H Goat Expo is designed for young people who are interested in live animal
evaluation and in testing their knowledge of the goat (caprine) industry.
http://msue.anr.msu.edu/events/state_4_h_goat_expo1
 
Norma Agnew Memorial 4-H Hairy Horse Show
Michigan State University Pavilion, East Lansing
This warm-up, no-placings horse show/clinic is the perfect opportunity to receive valuable feedback at the start of a new show season.
http://msue.anr.msu.edu/events/norma_agnew_memorial_4-h_hairy_horse_show
 
April 17: Pork Quality Assurance Workshop
Alma Public Library, Alma
This educational session will teach 4-H members about caring for their swine projects. 
Registration due April 15.
http://msue.anr.msu.edu/events/pork_quality_assurance_workshop_1

April 20: Starting and Sustaining a School Garden
Michigan State University Extension Tollgate Farm and Education Center, Novi
Learn the steps to design, build and maintain a school garden.
http://msue.anr.msu.edu/events/starting_and_sustaining_a_school_garden_tollgate_2016
 
April 20: Mad City Money—Budget Simulation for Teens
True Covenant Church, River Rouge
Participate in this two-hour, hands-on simulation to learn about money in the real world.
Registration due April 15.
http://msue.anr.msu.edu/events/mad_city_money_budget_simulation_for_teens

April 27-29: Michigan 4-H Shooting Sports Adult & Teen Instructor’s Certification
Kettunen Center, Tustin
Learn about Michigan 4-H shooting sports’ mission, policy, risk management, and more to
become certified to offer live-fire, on-range shooting and archery experiences. Register by April 8.
http://msue.anr.msu.edu/events/michigan_4_h_shooting_sports_adult_teen_instructors_certification_workshop

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Jeffrey W. Dwyer, Interim Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned. The name "4-H" and the emblem consisting of a four-leaf clover with stem and the "H" on each leaflet are protected under Title 18 U.S.C. 707.