Happy National 4-H Week !

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

We are Hiring

Our office is hiring! We're looking for a part time administrative assistant who is friendly, provides excellent customer service, shows great attention to detail and is a team player. Advertised in this week's Madison Eagle. Call the office, 948-6881 for more information and to get an application. 

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

Camp Reflections

As I sit her this morning thinking about camp(and waiting on my second load of laundry) I am sure many campers are still asleep. Camp 2012 had many high notes and a few low notes but overall was great!!  Our campers were the best!  They toughed out the weather (hot and cold in one week!!) and showed outstanding 4-H spirit!  During the week I saw campers using the 4 H's:  their HEAD to learn new things and make good choices; their HEART to make new friends and care for those who needed extra support,  their HANDS to help others and keep our center clean and  their HEALTH  by keeping hydrated and having a positive attitude.  


Many campers reached new goals, 

learned new skills

and made new friends. 

I am sure they have many stories to tell and many fun memories.  I know that I enjoyed my week at camp and feel so proud that we have such outstanding youth in both Orange and Madison county!  


Hope to see you all next year at camp!! (2013 camp should be one of the following weeks:  June 9-13, 16-20, or 23-27.  We will know for sure in September!)  




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

HOT!

Well it is just hot but the campers are doing well.   WATER is the most important word of the day and campers are encouraged to drink it at all classes and  meals.  Campers are having fun and learning a lot during morning classes and in the afternoon they got to cool off in the pool and in the AC during recreation.  After tonight's "fine dining" experience (we spruced up the dining hall with table cloths), campers will enjoy the dance.  Our final campfire will be special and provide many moments that will become memories that campers will take home.  

     

Climate, Comedy and Citizenship

Climate:  The temperature is rising. Gone are our cool mornings and overcast skies.  Today was sunny and hot, but with lots of breaks for water and some time in the shade and pool we had a great day!   

Comdey:  Tonight's evening program was called Channel Surfing. Our great bears relaxed on the couch and flipped through the shows on TV.  Each pack created two "shows" (skits) for the great bears to watch and the summer staff hosted the commercials.  Some of the "shows" watched included:  Say Yes to the Dress, ESPN News, America's Got Talent, the 4-H Camp music channel and more.   Many laughs were had!!

Citizenship:  This is one of the six pillars of character that we focus on here at camp and tonight at campfire a colorguard present the American Flag and taught us how a flag is retired.  It was a time of reflection for all.

Polar Bear, Polar Bear, Are You There?

Who knew???  There are POLAR BEARS in these mountains!!!  This morning 41 campers completed the polar bear challenge with a swim shortly after 6:30 a.m.  Parents, you would have been surprised how many kids actually got out of the bed early and without prompting!  Here they are, lining up around the pool, with the fog in the background.

 The boys far outnumbered the girls, though some who signed up last night didn't quite make it to the swim.  These fellas are ready to go!

 We counted down and in they went.  The challenge was to stay in for at least ten seconds.  The water temperature was warmer than the air temperature, and it was already pretty warm and muggy this morning.

 And here are the champions - the 2012 O-M 4-H CAMP POLAR BEARS!!!

Many thanks to staff members Melody and Broadway for lifeguarding our event.

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

Gold Rush

There's GOLD in them there hills.  Tonight the campers formed posses and went lookin' for gold.  They had to be on the lookout for bandits!  Some of them had to sing songs or solve riddles to hold on to their treasure!!   We are still awaitn' to see who found the most!!   Tonight we had to settle for and indoor campfire but camp our camp spirit is great!!

A Picture is Worth 1,000 Words

The Owl pack waits their turn to perform on stage at the Amphitheater.

The Skunk pack (adults) looks to have everything under control.

Camp staff transformed the tennis courts into a carnival.  Here Cha-Ching coaches a camper on the art of ping pong ball tossing.

This afternoon (Monday), the weather improved and we all went for a swim.

Ms. Shirley led a great "tater dressing" activity.  Campers really seemed to enjoy decorating their own Mr. Potato Head creature.  Now they're awaiting judging results...

Stay tuned for more posts.  We're having a great time!

We're Singing in the rain

Today has been rainy so far but it hasn’t dampened OUR 4-h spirits.  Our teens started us off with a great round of singing in the rain.   Breakfast this morning consisted of French toast sticks, bacon, oranges, cereal, and to drink we had milk or apple juice.   Most of the morning classes were moved indoors but our instructors kept it fun!  We are going to take advantage of a break in the weather and go swimming and hopefully we will be able to find gold tonight and have another awesome campfire.     


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

Today we did typical first day things:  orientation, health checks, rules, introductions, and then we got serious about meeting new people and having lots of fun. 

Dinner featured chicken patties, french fries, green beans, and chocolate pudding for dessert.  We didn't make it to the pool, but instead enjoyed a carnival and Pictionary Live!  The carnival featured basketball shots, bowling, facepainting, football throws, a 4-H camp version of a dunking booth, and a mysterious box with all kinds of gooey, touchy-feely things.  You'll have to ask your campers about that one - we weren't brave enough to try.  The carnival capstone featured Madame Zelda "reading" the tops of hands and predicting a wonderful week of camp.  Maybe it's just us, but we have a hunch she's close kin to one of the Great Bears.  


Campfire was exciting and each pack's Little Bear was topped with a special headband signifying the species for which the pack is named.  It was interesting to hear about these animals which are indigenous to Virginia.  In keeping with the theme, we then had some brief encounters with the real wildlife that live here at the center.  

We're looking forward to what tomorrow has in store!  

Check out the 4-H Summer Workshops

Summer Fun with 4-H.  We have a great line-up of summer workshops planned.

• Mad Science & Engineering - June 27
• Madison Scavenger Hunt - June 29
• Cupcake Wars - July 11
• Gardening - July 13
• Canning Basics - July 24
• Cloverbud Day Camp & Camp Out - Aug 3 & 4
• Eco Ventures - Aug 7-8

Check out the brochure on the website for more details. www.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

Virginia Junior Livestock Expo (formerly State Fair shows) Nomination Site Announced

Attention, youth planning to show commercial heifers, commercial meat goat does, market goats, market lambs, commercial ewes, market beef and/or market hogs!  Nomination site information has been released regarding official weigh-ins for projects to be shown at the Virginia Junior Livestock Expo, the event which will take the place of state livestock shows formerly held at the State Fair of Virginia.  All youth with projects in the previously mentioned categories will need to officially nominate their animals at one of several sites around the state.  Please note that commercial heifers and commercial does (meat goats) have been added to the list this year! 

 Orange County will host a nomination site again this year.  Please plan to bring your animals on Tuesday, June 26, at 1:00 p.m. to Glenmary Farm in Rapidan.  This is for beef, meat goat and sheep.  Hog nominations will be held at a later date (late July or early August), but hogs (market hogs and breeding gilts) will have to be transported to nomination sites this year!  Agents will not be making on-farm visits due to changes in the VJLE rules. 

If you have questions, please contact the Extension Office and we will be happy to help you.  Reminder:  VJLE dates are October 11-14, 2012, and the event will be held at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds. 

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

MCF Youth Scholarship Application

The Madison County Fair Youth Scholarship application is now available.  Visit www.madisoncountyfairva.com  for more information. Scholarship deadline is May 31, 2012


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

Explore a career in Public Health this Summer

Teens:  check out this amazing opportunity to attend a conference at Virginia Tech this summer and learn about public health and public health careers.  The event will be held August 2-4, 2012.  High school juniors and seniors will stay on the Virginia Tech campus, and all activities, lodging and meals are included for only $75!  Applications are due May 25 and only 50 students will be selected.  Visit http://www.vayouth.mph.vetmed.vt.edu/?page_id=307 for details and necessary paperwork.  


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

Poultry Judging Team wins Top Honors at State Contest

Three Menagerie 4-H Club members traveled to Harrisonburg on April 28 to compete in the State Poultry Judging Contest.  Team members Elizabeth Koranek, Sarah Jarrell & Bryan Jarrell were coached by Teen Leaders Nathaniel Sides and Simeon Koranek.  The Madison Junior Team won first place honors!! All our youth were in the top ten with Bryan placing 1st in the state, Elizabeth was 2nd overall and Sarah was 9th overall.  Way to represent Madison 4-H!!!

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

Madison 4-Her's Win at State WHEP Contest

Four members of the Madison 4-H Adventure Club travel to Blacksburg on April 28 to participate in the State 4-H Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP) Contest and came back winners.  Junior team members Kelly Jarvis, Meghan Ward & Aaron Yowell won top honors.  Kelly was also top junior in the state.  Brian Metz participated as a Novice and did a great job as well!!
In the WHEP contest youth participants must identify different wildlife species, take a general knowledge quiz about wildlife, evaluate a wildlife habitat and write a management plan and orally defend their plan and their recommendation to a set of judges.  Club members have spent months studying and preparing for this contest.

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

State 4-H Dairy Show date announced

Just announced!  Extension Dairy Specialist Dave Winston announced today that the first annual state 4-H/FFA  youth dairy show will be held August 2-4 at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds in conjunction with the state Holstein show.  The youth dairy show classes will take the place of dairy activities at the former State Fair of Virginia.  Entry forms and additional show information will be forthcoming.  See below for a save-the-date graphic. 

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

State Livestock Show Announcement

Virginia Junior Livestock Expo will be held Oct. 11 through 14 at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds in Harrisonburg, Va. This event will serve as the culminating activity for youth livestock projects and will replace the junior livestock show activities that were previously held annually at the State Fair of Virginia in Doswell, Va. The Virginia Junior Livestock Expo will be open to all Virginia 4-H and FFA members and will offer market and breeding shows for beef cattle, swine, sheep, and meat goats, as well as a stockman’s contest. Show details and entry forms will be posted on the Virginia Cooperative Extension websiteas they become available. For more information regarding the Virginia Junior Livestock Expo and sponsorship opportunities, contact Paige Pratt, youth livestock Extension specialist, at 540-231-4732.

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 Camp

BYOH! Bring Your Own Horse to a special camp for equine enthusiasts, July 29-August 2, 2012, at the Northern Virginia 4-HCenter. Youth with any level of riding experience, ages 9-14, are encouraged to sign up for this camp which features both English and Western styles of riding. Hands-on activities are a part of each event, and traditional camp components like swimming, canoeing and campfires are included. Cost is $325 per horse and rider. For more information go to: http://www.nova4h.com/storage/2012%20horse%20camp%20flyer.pdf

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

No Foolin' - 4-H Talent Showcase on Sunday, April 1

Madison 4-Her have got talent and they are ready to show it off. On Sunday, April 1 at 4:00 p.m. local youth will perform on stage at the Madison County High School Auditorium. Come out and watch these talented youth share their vocal, instrumental and dance skills.

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 Week!

This week 160 Madison County youth improved their oral communication skills by participating in the 4-H Oral Communication Contents. All student in the 4th grade and 12 4-H members presented on a wide range of topics. It was great to see so much energy and excitement. Congratulations to all!! This photo shows our winners at the county contest held Friday afternoon

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

Home Ec Club Sponsors Community Easter Egg Hunt

The Madison 4-H Home Ec Club will sponsor it's 4th annual Easter Egg Hunt on Sunday, March 25; 2:00 pm at the farmers market grounds. There will be Face painting before the hunt! This hunt is FREE for all ages! Come join us for a Eggstra Good Time!!!

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

Animal Science project members & volunteers needed for State-wide committee

The state 4-H Livestock program is looking for youth and volunteers to serve on the Virginia 4-H Livestock Record Book and Awards Advisory and the Virginia Youth Livestock Advisory Committee. Anyone interested in youth beef, sheep, swine, meat goat or poultry is encouraged to apply. Applications are avaliable at the Extension Office Please note that the deadline for both applications is Friday, March 23, 2012.

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

T-shirt Design Contest

Announcing the 1^st Annual State Show Tee Shirt design contest! The winning entry will have their artwork featured on the official State Show Tee Shirt at the State Show in Lexington in September. Rules and entry form can be found at the Extension Office or the 4-H website. Designs must be postmarked by May 11, 2012. The artwork will be posted on the 4-H Horse Website Home Page after May 15^th. 4-H members will be able to vote for their favorite design and the design with the most votes will win.

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 Extension Seeking Summer Interns

Summer will be here before we know it! There's a lot that will be happening, and we're fortunate to be able to expose two college students to careers in Extension via an official internship program. Rising juniors and seniors in college are encouraged to apply for a position here in our office.

One intern will focus on Agriculture programming, the 4-H intern will focus on programming to youth audiences and a third will work with the District Forestry Agent. Complete descriptions of each position, as well as information about how to apply, can be found online at http://www.ext.vt.edu/internship/index.html. All materials will be handled/processed through offices at Virginia Tech.

Please help us recruit!

Junior Camp Registration NOW OPEN!

Are you excited? We are! 2012 Camp is going to be great! Junior Camp will be held June 17-21 at the NOVA 4-H Center in Front Royal. Registration forms and your $50.00 deposit are due April 6, but don;t delay because camp fills up quickly!! The total cost to attend camp is $220 this year; scholarships are available 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

Sign up for e-mail updates to our Madison 4-H blog.

Rather than having to check the site, you will receive an e-mail notice that new information has been posted. Enter your address in the box in the top right corner of the blog, right under the header. Let us know how this new system works for you.

Stock Show University Beef Cattle Fitting Clinic

The Loudoun County 4-H Beef Club will host the Stock Show University Fitting Clinic on March 31, 9:00 a.m. at the Loudoun County Fairgrounds. Derek Jones will be the Sullivan’s Professor running the clinic. Derek has extensive experience showing, clipping, and fitting both steers and heifers. He became a Stock Show University Professor in February, and he has given demonstrations in both North and South Carolina. Please RSVP by March23, 2012 to Amy Lawson – starlightfarms@aol.com or Shannon Simpson – shannon0924@hotmail.com

CMR Farm Show BBQ Dinner Fundraiser

Come out for some great food and support the Culpeper-Madison-Rappahannock Farm Show. On April 22 they will host a BBQ Dinner at the Salem Fire Hall. Tickets cost $10.00 per person and are available for purchase at the Madison Extension Office.

Explore the World - Host a 4-H Delegate from Argentina this Summer!!

Host families with teens are needed to host incoming 4-H delegates from Argentina. Can you open your home to a visitor from July 9 to August 7th? This is a great opportunity to learn about another culture and expand your family's horizons. Timing is of the essence - if you want to host you need to let us know ASAP so we can get you the application and reference form.
Also, if your children are currently taking Spanish in school, what better way is there to learn the language than to live with someone who is fluent?

Explore the World of 4-H...Host a Japanese Delegate this Summer!

Are you looking for the summer of a lifetime without the costs of world travel? The 4-H Japanese LABO Exchange program may be just for you. Host a young boy or girl, age 12-14, and share our American culture while learning about Japanese culture. It's only a month, but the memories will last a lifetime! Please contact the Extension office for more details about this great program.

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

Scholarships available for High School Seniors

There are several scholarship opportunities for those graduating this year.

• Virginia Rucker Crigler Scholarship - This is a scholarship for Madison 4-H members. Applications are available on the website or at the guidance office. Due May 1

• Madison Young Farmers Scholarship - This application is available at the guidance office or see the High School FFA advisor.

• Madison Farm Bureau -Application available at the Farm Bureau Office or at the guidance office.

• The Culpeper Soil and Water Conservation District has posted theircollege scholarship application, which is due April 13th. Visit www.culpeperswcd.org for an application packet. A total of $3,000 will be awarded to students in the Culpeper District (which includes Madison) who are majoring in a field related to conservation.

Seniors: please don't miss out on these great opportunities!

Summer Camp Opportunities for Teens

Teens who are interested in attending the Forestry Camp at Holiday Lake or the Youth Conservation Camp at Virginia Tech may be able to qualify for a full scholarship from the Culpeper Soil and Water Conservation District. We have heard wonderful feedback on these events, both of which offer incredible opportunities for youth interested in forestry and conservation. These camps help youth network with a number of professionals around the state. Visit www.culpeperswcd.org for more information.

Spring 4-H Leaders Conference

4-H volunteers in the Central District are hosting the spring leaders' conference, and all Madison 4-H volunteers are invited to register. Conference dates are April 14-15, 2012, and the event will be held in Nottoway County. Workshops scheduled include: scientific method, shooting sports, scrapbooking, cooking, Parliamentary procedure, and table-top hydroponics. The Extension Office is willing to provide scholarships for volunteers who wish to attend. Please contact Kelly for more details.

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 Share the Fun

Come show off your talents at the annual 4-H Share the Fun Contest on March 7 & 8. 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 1.

Check out this Share the Fun act from Southwest VA. 4-H does have TALENT!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eE_9CvRbZA4&feature=share

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 4Hers Practice Citizenship

On Febuary 8, seven 4-Hers from Madison traveled to the state Capitol in Richmond to see citizenship in action. First went to visit with Holly Herman, Senator Emmett Hanger's aid. Senator Hanger was busy in committee meetings but Holly told us about the work he does. We also visited with Senator Bryce Reeves. He is new to the Senate this year and talked about how he got interested in serving in the Senate. Our next stop was to visit with Delegate Ed Scott. He talked to us about some of the Bills he is working on in the House and more about the process of getting a bill made into a law. We also took a quick tour of the Capitol building. We also learned about VDACS (Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services) and how it help farmers and consumers. It was a busy day on Capitol Hill, but we were able to squeeze into the House gallery to see our lawmakers in action.

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 Forestry Camp - June 18-23

The Virginia Department of Forestry, in cooperation with natural resource conservation agencies and organizations, have proudly administered the Holiday Lake Forestry Camp for more than 60 years.

Holiday Lake Forestry Camp is ideal for students:

• to explore and experience activities in forestry and wildlife related careers
• who participate in forestry and wildlife judging teams, Envirothon competitions, or ecology clubs
• to experience hands on learning about natural resources conservation.

Camp is held at the Holiday Lake 4-H Education Center located within the 20,000 acre Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest. This working forest provides a vast outdoor classroom for interactive learning.

Click on this link for more information: http://www.dof.virginia.gov/edu/camp.htm

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

Camp Counselors Needed!

Calling all students ages 14 and up as of January 1 of this year! Orange-Madison 4-H Camp will be held June 17-21 at the Northern Virginia 4-H Center in Front Royal, and we are currently accepting applications for youth that are interested in being a counselor. To be a camp counselor, you must be willing to assist with classes, be responsible for a room with five campers ages 9-13, and lead various group meetings and games.
Camp is a great opportunity to meet new people, make new friends, and work on your leadership skills. College may be a way off for most of you, but many college and scholarship applications look very favorably, and ask about leadership skills.

To be a camp counselor you must:

• Be a friendly person!
• Set a good example for the campers and be a good role model
• Encourage the campers to participate in activities and make them feel welcome and at home
• Be willing to carry out instructions or directions
• Serve as a class assistant, helper, or teach a class
• Help with recreation, evening programs, and campfire activities

If that sounds like something you would be interested in, there are some things that you need to do! You need to pick up an application either at the high school office or at the extension office. You will need to have that application filled out and returned to the extension office by JANUARY 27. You will also need to sign up for an interview time. Interviews will be held Thursday, February 8 and Friday, February 10, and are a way for us to get to know you better. You also need to find three people to be references for you, and they will need to complete the form that is in the application and return it by January 27.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact 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