4-H Officer Training - Nov 5

Come learn to be a better leader for you club. Learn about parliamentary procedure and your role as a club officer. All 4-H club officers should attend the Officer Training Workshop, Saturday, November 5, 2011, 9:30 a.m. to noon at Madison County High School.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Summer Governor's School for Agriculture.

The Commonwealth of Virginia is looking for the best and brightest high school students to join them at Virginia Tech next summer for the annual Governor’s School for Agriculture. The month-long residential program will be held June 24 to July 21, 2012, and gives students the opportunity to work with researchers, professors and industry professionals. Science and economics are major components of the event, but youth will also learn a lot by networking with adults and youth from across the state. Madison 4-H has had several members participate in the Governor’s School for Agriculture in the past and all have rated the experience VERY highly! For more information and to find out how to apply, visithttp://www.gsa.vt.edu/.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

VA Association of Fair Scholarship

The annual Virginia Association of Fairs Youth Leadership Scholarship Contest will be held January 7, 2012, at The Homestead. Senior 4-H’ers as of 1/1/12 who have participated in and provided service to the Madison County Fair are eligible to participate. An application, resume and essay are due the first Friday in December. A total of $7,000 in scholarship funds will be awarded; more information can be found at www.vafairs.us or by contacting the Extension Office.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

4-H Honey Bee Essay Contest

4-H members are invited to participate in the 2012 4-H Honey Bee Essay Contest. The Results of Honey Bee Pollination in my Community is the essay topic. This contest is sponsored by the Foundation for the Preservation of Honey Bees, Inc. and I would encourage all participants to visit there website (http://honeybeepreservation.org) and check out past entries. There are cash prizes for the top 3 winners in the state and the top state winner will be forwarded to the national contest. If you have questions or need more information feel free to give me a call or email.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Youth Livestock Leadership Forum

Virginia Tech will host a this event on Dec 2 - Dec 3. Friday night's focus is meat product quality and preparation. Participants will get to cook and eat a variety of items. Saturday will focus on Leadership & Livestock with topics like animal well-being, business etiquette, and more. There will also be a workshop for judging team coaches on Saturday. Registration deadline is Nov 11. Cost to attend in $35.00.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Happy National 4-H Week

October 2-8 is National 4-H Week! Wear the clover and show your 4-H pride. 4-H is a community of more than seven million young people across America who are learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For more than a century, the four H’s on the well-known clover, representing Head, Hands Heart and Health have been recognized as

a trusted framework for excellence in positive youth development. In 4-H, Kids participate in hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for life

. 4-H youth are a living breathing, culture-changing revolution for doing the right thing, breaking through obstacles and pushing our country forward by making a measurable difference right where they live. Learn how you can Join the Revolution of Responsibility contact Kelly Mallory, Virginia Cooperative Extension, 4-H Agent at 948-6881 or malloryk@vt.edu.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Cloverbuds discover "What's Outside My Door"

The theme of the 2011 Cloverbud Day Camp was "What's outside my door". During the 4 hour workshop the youth explore the sun and our solar system, used their own "wind" to make paintings and created their own plant world (aka terrarium). Then we met up with the parents and pitched out tents of a camp out. After a dinner of campfire hot dogs and s'mores we played so games and made some crafts. Then we headed out for a night hike where we learned how animals adapt to being in the dark. The rain and storms passed us over and we woke up to a beautiful morning in the woods!

4-Hers had a great time exploring our natural world

Eco Ventures is a program designed to get youth outdoors and that is just what we did last week!! On Wednesday we explored the Landmark Forest and Working Woods at Montpelier. James Madison was one of the original conservationists so we got to see trees that have been untouched for over 250 years!! The 4-Her even got to climb to the top of a 250 year old tree that was 15 ft around (Sure it was laying on it's side but what an awesome experience!!). Thursday we loaded up our backpacks for a hike up to the Lower White Oak Canyon Falls. We were the first ones on the trails. Along the way we stopped to perform some water quality test and look for "bugs" in the creek. What a great time we had exploring all the natural resources right in our backyard!

State Horse Show 50th Anniversary

The 50 thAnnual Virginia State 4-H Championship Horse and Pony Show will be held September 15 – 18, 2011 at the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, Virginia. This is a very special year in that it is the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the show and we have lots of plans to host and celebrate our show’s history and alumni! We would like to see all past and present 4-H Alumni come to this special 50th celebration of the VA 4-H Championship Show! There will be displays, memorabilia, special demonstrations and an alumni reception on Saturday afternoon (September 17) in the Mezzanine. For more information, please contact Sue Rogowski, Alumni Coordinator, at peanutshack1@msn.com.

In addition to the alumni activities, we are also seeking nominations for the Outstanding Horses of the Virginia State 4-H Horse Show Contest. The 50th Anniversary Committee is looking for nominations for Outstanding Horses that have partnered with 4-H members over the past 50 years at previous shows or will be attending this year’s State 4-H Horse Show. Horses, both living and deceased, who have served one or many different 4-Hers through the years; attended the first show (1961); had extraordinary success at the State 4-H Shows; or have touching or funny State 4-H Show experiences; may be nominated. There will be awards given for different categories! We will be recognizing the winners of our contest at the alumni reception and the evening show performance on Saturday September 17, 2011 at Waldron Arena, Virginia Horse Center, Lexington. Nomination forms can be found on the VA 4-H Horse Website at: http://www.4-h.ext.vt.edu/programs/anscience/horse/Events/4h_horse_events.html. Give as much information as possible on the form. You may attach another sheet if needed to tell your outstanding horse’s story.

For more information on the ‘Outstanding 4-H Horses’ contest, please contact Bertha Durbin. Mail or email nomination forms to Bertha Durbin at 4522 Catterton Rd., Free Union, VA 22940 or berthadurbin@earthlink.net.


Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Northern District All Star Picnic

The Northern District All Stars will hold their annual picnic on August 28 at Graves Mountail Lodge. Please RSVP to William Thomas at wetsbt@gmail.com or 825-1873 by August 15 if you plan to attend.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Madison County Fair Award Picnic

The Madison County Fair Award Picnic will be held August 27, 6:00 p.m. at the Fairgrounds. Exhibitors and their families along with local livestock supporters are invites to attend and should bring a side dish or desset to share. If you plan to attend please contact the Madison Extension Office by August 19.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Exploring Science and Technology

Local youth got a chance to explore science and technology this week at the 4-H summer workshop. First they had to think like a scientist, then design like and engineer. Using the skills they learned each team built a marshmallow catapult. In the afternoon they explored the areas of robotics, crime science and environmental science.

Pickles and Jam!!

We had lots of fun in the Extension kitchen this week! Youth participating in our canning workship learned to make Blueberry Jam and Pickles. I must say the jam was outstanding and so much fun to make! The participants also carefully cut and packed their pickles in hopes of winning a blue ribbon at the fair next week.

Get Ready for the FAIR!

The Madison County Fair is right around the corner (July 12 - 16). ARE YOU READY?? Now is the time to be putting the finishing touches on your artwork, scouting the garden for the perfect vegetables and carefully tending those flowers. Remember that Home, Farm & Garden entries are due July 11 from 4 - 8 PM at the Fairgrounds! For more information check our madisoncountyfairva.com.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Red, White and Blue All Over!

Our office was bursting with patriotic spirit on Friday! Eleven Cloverbud youth (ages 5 - 8) were participating in our Prep for Patriots workshop. They made firworks t-shirts, star cookies, photo frames and headbands. A great time was had by all!!

Camp is over but the memories will last a lifetime

Thank you to all the campers, teens, adults and summer staffers for a great camp! See you next year!

What a great day to be at 4-H Camp!

Today is the perfect day at 4-H camp. It's was cool and sunny this morning and classes were in full swing. The horse basic class rode horses today. Rocketry started shooting off their rockets and the kids in canoeing are super anxious about the "flip" tomorrow. Last night we had Minute to Win It, you should have seen the kids doing those crazy games. This year our lunches are featuring local produce. Today we had the biggest blackberries I have ever seen. Looks like a great afternoon for swim and rec. Our lodges will be filled with excitement because tonight is "the dance". Our last night of campfire will help campers create memories that will last a lifetime! 444444….HHHHH!

4-H Quliting Workshop

Local youth and the Madison Quilters Guild teamed up this to help teach the art of quilting. Guild members gave one on one instruction to workshop participants. Each youth got to select their square and design the pattern; they learned how to piece their sqaures together with the sewing machine and how to finish their project. Some beautiful wall hangings were created. A big thank you to the ladies of the Madison Quilters Guild who gave their time to help our youth learn this wonderful art.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

What a Day!

Just as we broke for afternoon activities, some unwelcome visitors rolled into camp. Storm clouds! The first group at swimming was able to get wet in the pool, but that's about it! The storm was fast-moving, and we all took shelter, but swimming was not to be in the schedule for today. Campers received an extra hour of free time in the dorms and had a chance to get to know their new friends better.

Tonight's evening program more than made up for the loss this afternoon. Minute to Win It games were a HIT and got many, many campers involved in tasks such as stacking seven cupcakes on their forehead, resting dice on a popsicle stick held in their mouth, and knocking empty cans off a table by shooting rubber bands. Our adult volunteers served as game hosts and did a fantastic job of motivating the crowds. It's been hard to concentrate on this post because there is so much enthusiasm and cheering going on!!!

The Great Bears put together a memorable campfire experience last night and the teens had a funny house-building skit. The pack cheers have been a real hoot - especially that of the owls (pun intended) - and we're looking forward to another great event tonight.

The Sun is Shining and Fun is Everywhere!

Tuesday has started out great! The sun is shining and the heat is rising. WATER and sunscreen will be a priority today. Maybe Captain Health will visit us a lunch for an H2O reminder!! Campers are in classes and busy learning new things. Check out this photo from the Day Spa classes and their homemade pore cleaning strips.

Another Great Day of Camp Comes to an End!

The sun came out and the fun did too!!. Campers enjoyed time in the pool and on the rec fields this afternoon. After dinner, everyone headed out to the 4-H Camp Carnival! Teens and staff manned the booths and campers tried their luck at the duck pond, quarter drop, dunk booth and more. The day ended with another great campfire.

Day is Done, Gone the Sun...

The misty skies of this morning are long gone, but so is the afternoon sun for that matter. We had two great hours of swimming and recreation this afternoon, plus one of the best lunches the 4-H Center has served! Grilled chicken breast pita pockets with lettuce and tomato, herb-roasted potatoes, and fresh cherries! The Center is participating in a fresh local foods program and our campers are the ones who benefit.

Tonight's special program was a carnival, and it would have given a commercial outfit a run for its money! Lil K (Madison Extension Agent Kelly Mallory) planned a series of more than 20 carnival booths with many games and prizes. Putting a 4-H camp spin on popular games, we saw push-light bean bag tosses to mimic darts, a reverse dunk tank in which counselors received good soakings, ping pong toss to win Swedish fish instead of live goldfish, and a snack walk instead of a traditional cake walk. Other booths gave tickets as prizes, and those tickets could be turned in for a chance on bigger prizes. Brandon won $25 cold, hard cash, Hunter chose movie tickets, Josh earned a McDonalds gift card, and Zach chose to put a pie in the face of a staff member of his choosing tomorrow night. Laurel will be treated to a delivered dinner from town!

The teen counselors did an outstanding job of leading campfire, with fun, energetic songs, a wild and crazy them-thar story, and a visit from Captain Health in his stunning red cape as he reminded campers to wear sunscreen everyday and be safe around the pool. The campers pass along the message that they love you and miss you, but we are all having a great time and enjoying a great camp!

4-H Campers Have Class!

It's a "classy" bunch here at the Center. Here are some glimpses of what's been happening this morning. The woodworkers have sanded all their wooden pieces and will be ready to start building tomorrow. Day Spa participants made stress-relieving balloons and created skits about proper stress management. The cheerleaders had a cardio workout before learning their routines, and GPS students are learning to map waypoints and use their receivers.
In T-shirt art, they prepared for next week by making Independence Day celebration shirts. Throwing skills and the rules of the game were on the agenda for Ultimate Frisbee and basketball players worked hard, but fought somewhat of a losing battle due to basketballs that wouldn't hold air very long - we're working on that! Young fishermen and women had good luck (or should we say, skill) with catches, and the knitting group got started with their stitches.
The weather's cool, the skies are overcast, but the 4-H spirit is raging! We're having fun...hope you are, too! E-mails are pouring in - literally - but please remember to keep them positive and upbeat so our campers feel encouraged to be here!

A Little Rain Doesn't Dampen Our 4-H Spirit

So the rain did come, but we had a great time anyways. The campers had time for some free swim, and after a popcorn snack, they headed back to change. Great Bears Dimples and Bigfoot led a rousing campfire ceremony, including a new 4-H Camp song: Yo' Mama Don't Wear No Socks. Be sure to ask about this one when your campers return home. Check out this photo for a glimpse of the fun we are having!

Camp 2011 is in full swing! We had a great dinner of chicken tenders, mashed taters, fruit & cookies. Campers are in the midst of swim test and eagerly waiting for the pool party. The skies are a little cloudy but that won’t dampen their spirit. Looking forward to a great campfire!


Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

2011 Summer Workshops

Come check out Madison 4-H's 2011 Summer Worshops! We've just finalized our summer line-up of workshops. Our first up on is a quilting workshop on June 22. Other activities this year will include "eco-ventures", building your own camera, a canning workshop, a science and technology day, and 4th of July crafts. We're ending with a big bang this year with two back-to-back day camps on August 17-18 and 19-20. More details such as costs and workshops dates can be found online at the Madison 4-H website and our 2011 Summer Workshops brochure and registartion form is downloadable HERE. You can also always stop by the Madison Extension Office in the War Memorial Building on Main St. Madison or give us a call at 540-948-6881. Registration ends on June 17th. Check it out and don't miss the fun this summer!

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Madison County Fair Entries DUE June 1.

The time is here. Entry forms for the Madison County Fair Livestock Shows are Due June 1. Any Madison County 4-H or FFA members who plans to show their project animal at the Fair this July needs to submit and entry form, entry fees and a record book to the Extension Office by June 1. Form can be found at http://www.madisoncountyfairva.com.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Support 4-H and Win a C.F. Martin Guitar

Do you like music? Can you play the guitar or want to learn how? Here is your chance to win a Martin D-16RGT guitar and support the Madison 4-H program. Members are currently selling raffle tickets for this guitar. Tickets are $1.00 each or 6/$5.00. The drawing will be held Saturday, June 4 at the Grave Mountain Festival of Music. Get your ticket today!!

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Centaurs Horse Club members get ready for the Derby

The Kentucky Derby is on Saturday. Do you have a favorite to win? The member of the Centaurs Horse Club have been making preparations for the big event. Not the race but the annual Boys and Girls Club "Night at the Derby" Gala. As a community service project they have painted 114 horse shoes and filled 362 burlap gift bags with pepermints. These item will decorate the tables event this Saturday. Thank you girls for all your hard work!

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Livestock Club Members Learn About Farm Safety

The members of the Livestock Club learned important lessons about tractor, ATV and lawn mower safety at their May meeting. David Ford from VA Tractor enforced the idea of always putting safety first when operating any type of lawn or garden equipment.


The safety rules include

1. NEVER have a rider.
2. NEVER ride on a fender
3. ALWAYS wear a seat belt
4. ALWAYS check around and behind you before moving
5. ALWAYS set the break and turn off the machine when getting off.
6. NEVER walk under a loader when it is in the up position
7. NEVER wear loose clothing around tractors or other equiptment.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Madison 4-H Members Shine at Spring Contests

It has been a busy spring for many of our 4-H members. Madison youth have participated in the VT Block & Bridle Judging Contest, State 4-H WHEP (Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Contest), District Hippology Contest and State Poultry Judging Contest and earned many top honors. Congratulations on all your hard work and way to represent Madison 4-H!!

State 4-H Poultry Judging Contest (April 29)
Participants: Nathaniel S., Simeon K., Elizabeth K., Bryan J., & Sarah J.
Results:
Senior Poultry Judging Contest - STATE WINNERS!!!! Nathanial & Simeon teamed up with two 4-Her from Culpeper. They now have the opportunity to represent VA at the National Contest in November. Nathaniel & Simeon took 1st and 2nd place individuals overall. Way to GO!!!
Junior Poultry Judging Contest - 2nd place Team Overall. In the individual contest Elizabeth was 5th, Bryan was 6th and Sarah was 11th.

State 4-H WHEP Contest (April 2)
Participants: David Y, Kelly J., Becki B., Aaron Y., Meaghan W., Megan D., & Emily D.
Results:
Senior Team: David teamed up with Montgomery County to earn 2nd place Team Overall.
Junior Advanced Team: 1st place Team Overall. In the Individual contest Kelly was 1st and Becki was 4th.
Junior Novice Team: 2nd place Team Overall. In the individual contest Meaghan W. was 2nd, Emily was 3rd and Megan D was 6th.

District Hippology Contest (April 2)
Participants: Caitlin S., Samantha C., Brooke P. & Courtney P. Emily E. was a great youth volunteer.
Results:
Senior Hippology Contest: 8th Team Overall. In the individual contest Caitlin was 21st overall and Samantha was 25th overall.

VT Block & Bridle Contest (March 25& 26)
Participants - Emily D., Simeon K., Courtney P., DJ D., Kelly J., Elizabeth K., Emily Y., Faith Y. and Waverly Y.
Results:
Senior Stockman's Contest - 10th out of 77 Teams and Emily D. was 11th out of 309 Individuals.
Junior Stockman's Contest - 13th out of 53 Teams and Kelly J. was 8th out of 228 Individuals.
Junior Livestock Judging Contest - Faith Y. was 6th out of 177 Individuals.
Advanced Livestock Judging Contest - 9th out of 22 Teams and Emily D. was 16th out of 133 Individuals.



Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

4-H Summer Workshops

We will again offer a series of fun workshops this summer. Right now we have a quilting workshop schedule for June 22 and a Robotics workshop scheduled for July. We will have all workshops, dates and time ready by June 1.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Madison 4-H Hippology Contest - May 19

What is Hippology you say! It is the study of the horse. Local 4-H members are invited to come out and test their knowledge of the horse in the areas of breeds, colors & patterns, tack & equipment, feeds, part of the horse and a general knowledge quiz. This contest will be held at the Madison Extensino Office on May 19 at 5:00 PM. Please call the office at 948-6881 is you wish to attend.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Market Lamb & Goat Weigh-In - May 14

The Madison County Fair Market Lamb & Goat weigh-in will be May 14, 5:00 PM at the Young Farmers Fairgrounds. Madison 4-H/FFA members who are enrolled in the market hog project should attend.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Swine Weigh-In -April 1 - No Foolin'

The Madison County Fair Swine weigh-in will be held on April 1 from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. at the Young Farmers Fairgrounds. Madison 4-H/FFA members who are enrolled in the market hog project should attend. Pigs will be weighed and given an official ear tag.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

4-H All Star Inductees Announced

Congratulations to these Madison County 4-H members who will be inducted as 4-H All Stars this summer. Emily Dyer, Scott Henshaw & Nathaniel Sides. Becoming an All Star is the highest honor possible in 4-H and we commend you for your hard work and dedication!

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Come to Heritage Days - April 2 & 3

Graves Mountain Lodge will host two fun-filled days with fishing, activities and education. Youth will have the opportunity to fish on the Rose River and learn about fishing and wildlife. There will be many educational workshops and displays for both youth and adults. For more information visit the website or call 923-4231

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Parent/Child Cloverbud Camp at NOVA 4-H Center

The Northern Virginia 4-H Center in Front Royal has announced plans for two sessions of Parent/Child Cloverbud Camp in August. Youth ages 5 - 8 as of 9/30/11 and their parents or another adult are invited to see what camp is all about, but in a more "secure" setting because a piece of home has traveled with them. Go to the 4-H website for more details. Camp dates are August 7 -9 or 9 - 11. Cost to attend is $175 if registered by May 15.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

International Exchange Forum

Albermarle 4-H has invited us to a learning session for the 4-H International Exchange program. Come learn what countries participate, how you can host someone, how you can travel and hear from previous participants about their experiences. The meeting will be held Tuesday, March 29, 6:00 p.m. at the Main Office Building (401 McIntire Rd) Call 434-872-4580 for more information.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Horse Club members have fun at Tack Swap

Madison Centaurs 4-H Horse Club members participated in the Kelly's Ford Tack Swap Event on Feb 26. There was cool stuff like riding helmets, riding boots, bridles, bits, saddles and much more. The 4-H Centaurs promoted 4-H, blew up balloon and gave away cool 4-H stickers. In addition to selling tack as a fund raiser for the club, we saw lots of horses. There were demonstrations on adding a new horse to the pack, how to get on a horse, and a local vet talked about pre-purchase exams. We has fun and raised money for our club!
-submitted by club reporters Kati & Clare Sukley

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Come to the Fiber Festival

Graves Mountain Lodge will host a Fiber Festival on April 30. This free festival will include llamas, alpacas, bunnies, goats and more. Shearing demonstrations will be offered as well as vendors who make articles from animal fibers.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Junior Camp Registration NOW OPEN!!

Are you excited? We are! 2011 Camp is going to be great! Junior Camp will be held June 26-30 at the NOVA 4-H Center in Front Royal. Registration forms and your $50.00 deposit are due April 1, but don;t delay because camp fills up quickly!! The total cost to attend camp is $210 this year; scholarships are avaliable for those with financial need. Brochures are avaliable in school, at the Extension Office or online .

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Volunteer Judges Requested for District Contests on April 2nd

4-H District Contests for presentations, public speaking and Share the Fun will be held in Ruckersville on Saturday, April 2, 2011, 9:30 am - noon. We need numerous volunteers to serve as judges and/or room chairs. If you are interested in volunteering to help please contact the Madison Extension Office at 948-6881. Judges need not be experienced as training is provided. This is a wonderful way to support our 4-H youth. T

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Teen Counselor Training Kicks Off TONIGHT!!

Tonight we kick off our monthly teen counselor training session. All counselor applicants are expected to attend. Training will be held at Grymes Memorial School in Orange. Teens bring your best attitude and be ready to show us you have what it takes to be a great teen counselor. Call the office 948-6881 if you need directions.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Madison 4Her's have Got Talent!

Come show off your talents at the annual 4-H Share the Fun Contest on March 23 & 24. This is a great opportunity to get on stage and exhibit the great voice, comedy skit or dance routine. Youth of all ages (5 - 19) can participate. Call the Extension Office 948-6881 or visit the website for more information. Deadline to sign up your act is March 11

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

4-H Presentation Contest

Abe Lincoln was a great orator and you can be one too. You don't have to write the Gettysburg address but you can prepare a great presentation, speech or radio spot on something that interests you. Mark your calendars for March 11, 3:45 p.m. and join us. Call the extension office or visit the website http://www.madison4h.pbworks.com/ for more information.

Required StatementsVirginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Community Tree Planting Party

Calling all youth in Madison County to a fun and important day of making a difference in our community and our environment....come plant some trees!!! On March 26 from 2:00 - 4:00 we will be planting tree seedlings at the Hoover Ridge Complex. Call the Extension Office for more details.

Required Statements:Virginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

Northern District Livestock Show - Culpeper Invitational

The Northern District Livestock Show - Culpeper Invitational will be held on Saturday, May 21, 2011. The show will take place at the Culpeper Agriculture Enterprise beginning at 9:00 a.m. The show is open to all 4-H and FFA members. Entries need to be postmarked or delivered to the local extension office by April 15, 2011. The show rules and more information can be found on the Madison 4-H website http//madison4h.pbworks.com

Required Statements: Virginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disbility, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in any of these advertised activities, please contact the Madison Extension Office at 540-948-6881/TDD* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. *TDD number is 800-828-1120

4-Her's Visit State Capitol and Meet with Legislators

Madison and Orange 4-H members and volunteers traveled to Richmond on Feb 8 to visite the State Capitol. Citizenship was the life skill of the day. This fine group of 57 met with Senator Edd Houck and Delegates Ed Scott and Rob Bell to share their 4-H story. Participants learned how a bill becomes a law and how legislators work to represent their constituents in the General Assembly. The trip included a tour of the Govenor's Mansion, seating and recognition in the Senate Gallery and partial tours of the State Capitol building.

4-H Camp Teen Counselor Applications Avaliable TODAY

If you are age 14-18 and want to be a role model for younger children, we have an opportunity for you! We are now accepting applications for 4-H Junior Camp Counselors and encourage you to submit your packet before January 31. Cam Counselors are key to our camp success and we need males and females to fill avaliable positions. Camp will be held June 26 - 30, at the NOVA 4-H Center in Front Royal. Cost is only $100 for the week and includes all transportation, room and board. Visit http://madison4h.pbworks.com/ to download an application packet.

Happy 2011 4-Hers!

Happy New Year to everyone. As we move into 2011 things are getting rolling in the 4-H world. Keep tuned into the blog and the website for the latest information of 4-H events like Junior Camp, the 4-H Presentation Contest, Share the Fun, Summer Workshops and more!!!