4-H Youth Development News
4-H Youth Development News - March 6, 2024
4-H Youth Development Program News
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent
U. K. College of Agriculture
4-H Speech and Demonstration
The 4-H Speech and Demonstration Contest will take place next Thursday, March 14 at 6:30pm at the Montgomery County Extension Education Center. Call the County Extension Office at 498-8741 to pre-register for the contest by Friday, March 1 to pre-register your topic.
Through this contest, participants learn the logical way to prepare a speech or present information through a demonstration. Standing up and delivering a speech or presentation develops independence and confidence in participants. It helps them overcome the fear of speaking in public. Communications expertise is a vital skill for today’s youth and tomorrow’s adults. 4-H Youth Development helps youth improve their quality of speech and association with others whether one-on-one in a job interview or a keynote address in a banquet hall.
4-H Natural Resources and Environmental Science Academy
The 4-H Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences Academy is now accepting applications for program year 2024-25. The Academy is also known as the 4-H NRESci Academy is a three-year program designed to teach youth about the natural environment. In the program, members participate in hands-on investigations to learn about Kentucky’s water, forest, entomology, and wildlife resources. Applicants must be in the 5th grade at the time of the application. Twenty-five youth will be selected statewide to participate. To apply, prospective participants must complete the application by April 19, 2024.
For more information about the 4-H Natural Resources and Environmental Science Academy, contact me at your Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741.
State 4-H Horse Contests to take place in June
The Kentucky 4-H State Horse Contests will be held June 5-7, 2024. The State Horse Judging contest will be June 5 at Spy Coast Farm in Lexington with the other contests that include Horse Crafts, Horse Photography, Horse Public Speaking, Horse Demonstration, Horse Bowl being held at the Ag North building at the University of Kentucky’s Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture Food Environment campus June 6-7.
What kinds of contests are offered at the State Horse Contests? Horse Judging; Horse Quiz Bowl; Hippology; Communications contests including Individual Demonstration; Team Demonstration and Individual Speech; and Arts & Crafts all of which must be horse related with categories for Sewing/Quilting, Photography, Painting, Drawing, Paper Crafts, Woodworking, Metal Work, Jewelry Making, and Art from a Kit
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
Educational programs of the Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expressions, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
4-H Youth Development News - February 28, 2024
4-H Youth Development Program News
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent
U. K. College of Agriculture
4-H Camp 2024
4-H Camp 2024 for Montgomery County campers takes place June 3-7, 2024 at North Central 4-H Camp in Carlisle. Summer 4-H camp is for youth, ages 9-14. It provides a safe, secure and fun environment for young people.
Registration for campers takes place on-line by way of SignUpGenius beginning on Friday, March 1. The registration link will be posted on our website and Facebook page. You can also contact our office at 859-498-8741 to request to be on our email camp list to receive the link directly.
Kentucky 4-H: A Capitol Experience
State 4-H Capitol Experience takes place on Wednesday, March 6 in Frankfort. Pre-registration was required for the trip.
4-H Speech and Demonstration
The 4-H Speech and Demonstration Contest will take place Thursday, March 14 at 6:30pm at the Montgomery County Extension Education Center. Call the County Extension Office at 498-8741 to pre-register for the contest by Friday, March 1 to pre-register your topic.
4-H Natural Resources and Environmental Science Academy
The 4-H Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences Academy is now accepting applications for PY 2024-25. The 4-H Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences Academy is also known as the 4-H NRESci Academy.
What is NRESci? The NRESci Academy is a three-year program designed to teach youth about their natural environment. In the program, members participate in hands-on investigations to learn about Kentucky’s water, forest, entomology, and wildlife resources.
When does the Academy meet? The Academy is a three-year commitment, and meets quarterly each year. Delegates attend a two-day residential retreat at Feltner 4-H Camp in September and participate in three 1-day events held in winter, spring, and summer. The locations of the 1-day events vary and take place across the state at different natural areas/venues such as Salato Wildlife Education Center, Pine Mountain Settlement School, Robinson Forest, Lost River Cave, UK Campus just to name a few. This ensures that youth experience a variety of natural areas and natural resource professionals during their 3-years in the program. Please note that this program does require substantial travel for families, as our 1-day events take place across the state.
One-day events take place on week-days, generally in October/November, February/March, and May. These dates are set at the beginning of each program year. The dates are scheduled for 2024-2025 and are listed on the application. Transporation to/from events is not provided. Families are responsible for providing transportation
Who can apply? Applicants must be in the 5th grade at the time of the application. If selected, youth/families must agree to make a three-year commitment to the program. Please note that only 25 youth will be selected from the entire state to participate. Applications will be reviewed in May with applicants being notified in June if they are selected to the program.
What is the cost? The cost of the program is $175 per year. The costs includes lodging and meals for the Fall Retreat, and programming costs associated with the 1-day events. Partial and/or full scholarships may be available. If available, a scholarship application will be made available to members by June.
What do youth do in the Academy? Each year of the 3-year program, delegates concentrate on a different core area of water, entomology, forestry, wildlife as well as interact with experts in each of these disciplines. Youth participate in a variety of field exercises, including stream sampling, forest measurement data collection, wildlife observation and trapping, insect collection and identification, and much more. Youth also have the opportunity to visit natural areas throughout the Commonwealth, such as Lost River Cave, Salato Wildlife Education Center, Minor E. Clark Fish Hatchery, Pine Mountain Settlement School, Robinson Forest, University of Kentucky’s campus, and more!
To apply, prospective participants must complete the application by April 19, 2024.
For more information about the 4-H Natural Resources and Environmental Science Academy, contact me at your Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741.
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
4-H Youth Development News - February 21, 2024
4-H Youth Development Program News
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent
U. K. College of Agriculture
Kentucky 4-H Volunteer Forum
The Kentucky 4-H Volunteer Forum will take place this week beginning on Thursday running through Saturday, February 22-24, 2024 at the Central Bank Convention Center and the Hyatt Regency in Lexington. The Kentucky 4-H Volunteer Forum is the second largest of its kind in the United States in terms of attendance with approximately 1200 attendees.
Thursday’s Opening Event will be held at the UK Athletics Champions Club at Rupp Arena. Dinner is served at this event. Entertainment for the evening will be Brice Long a KY song writer and performer.
The forum is offering the Master Accreditation opportunity for volunteers again this year. Accreditation allows volunteers to become more acquainted in applying knowledge and skills in their counties by providing educational resources and workshops in club management, leadership, and subject matter.
Friday and Saturday is loaded full of workshops covering the core areas of 4-H youth development.
The 4-H Hall of Fame banquet and awards ceremony takes place Friday night Convention Center Ballroom. It is the premier event for state recognition of 4-H volunteers and the work they do in positive youth development of 4-H members.
The forum is a biennial event for 4-H volunteers in Kentucky. The next one will take place in 2026.
4-H Teen Retreat
C1-C4 Area 4-H Teen Retreat for teens 14 years and older will take place March 8-10 at Feltner 4-H Camp in London, Kentucky. The retreat begins on Friday after school with registration then dinner. The weekend includes workshops, funshops, service project, recreation, social time, games and a dance. For registration information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741.
4-H Camp 2024
4-H Camp 2024 for Montgomery County campers takes place June 3-7, 2024 at North Central 4-H Camp in Carlisle. Summer 4-H camp is for youth, ages 9-14. It provides a safe, secure and fun environment for young people.
Registration for campers takes place on-line by way of SignUpGenius beginning on Friday, March 1. The registration link will be posted on our website and Facebook page. You can also contact our office at 859-498-8741 to request to be on our email camp list to receive the link directly.
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
4-H Youth Development News - February 14, 2024
4-H Youth Development Program News
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent
U. K. College of Agriculture
Changes for 2024 Market Livestock Validation
For 4-H and FFA youth who show market livestock including market steers, market heifers, market lambs, market goats, market hogs and breeding hogs, there are changes that have occurred in the validation process for 2024.
One of the changes is that validation of livestock is returning to regional sites in 2024 similar to way it was prior to March 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic. The first to be validated will be large animal livestock also known as market steers and market heifers. The deadline for validating large animal livestock is March 16. Exhibitors will need to attend one of five of the sites and dates that are scheduled as follows:
Monday, February 19…Bourbon County Fairgrounds…5:00-7:00 PM
Thursday, February 22…Pendleton County Fairgrounds… 5:00-7:00 PM
Saturday, March 2…Kentucky Beef Expo…11:00 AM to NOON
Tuesday, March 12…Laurel County…5:00-7:00 PM
Saturday, March 16…Green River Beef Show…8:00-10:00 AM
Another change is exhibitors will need to obtain or provide the National Premise Identification Number for the physical location of where the validated livestock or show animals are housed. What is a National Premises Identification Number? It is an identification code permanently associated with a physical address where animals are raised, housed, or boarded, and is used for animal disease traceability efforts. Once a Premises Identification Number (PIN) is create for a physical address, it never changes. This code is requested and registered through the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, Office of the State Veterinarian.
Exhibitors and parents will need to complete the appropriate validation form bases on the species of the animal to be validated. This includes ensuring that the physical address of where the validated animal is to be housed has a National Premises Identification Number. Complete the top portion of the form and secure signatures of the 4-H Agent or the FFA Advisor. Take the completed form to the validation site.
The validation fee is $5 per head. Cash, money order, or check is acceptable.
Exhibitors will need to be accompanied by parents to the validation site to witness the tagging and collection of DNA by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture representative. Signatures from both the exhibitor and parent on the DNA envelope are required.
If an exhibitor under the age of 18 is present without a parent or guardian, a signed Hold Harmless Form must accompany the exhibitor to the validation site.
For further information about the 4-H Livestock Validation, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Servic office at 859-498-8741.
4-H Teen Retreat
C1-C4 Area 4-H Teen Retreat for teens 14 years and older will take place March 8-10 at Feltner 4-H Camp in London, Kentucky. The retreat begins on Friday after school with registration then dinner. The weekend includes workshops, funshops, service project, recreation, social time, games and a dance. For registration information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741.
4-H Camp 2024
4-H Camp 2024 for Montgomery County campers takes place June 3-7, 2024 at North Central 4-H Camp in Carlisle. Summer 4-H camp is for youth, ages 9-14. It provides a safe, secure and fun environment for young people.
Registration for campers takes place on-line by way of SignUpGenius beginning on Friday, March 1. The registration link will be posted on our website and Facebook page. You can also contact our office at 859-498-8741 to request to be on our email camp list to receive the link directly.
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
4-H Youth Development News - February 7, 2024
4-H Youth Development Program News
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent
U. K. College of Agriculture
4-H Teen Retreat
C1-C4 Area 4-H Teen Retreat for teens 14 years and older will take place March 8-10 at Feltner 4-H Camp in London, Kentucky. The retreat begins on Friday after school with registration then dinner. The weekend includes workshops, funshops, service project, recreation, social time, games and a dance. For registration information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741.
What is C1-C4 Area in 4-H?
C1-C4 Area or areas are the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Administrative Areas. This includes counties that make up the central Kentucky and the Central Region in the Extension Service. The counties include Clark, Estill, Madison, and Powell which are in the C1 Area. The C2 area includes Bourbon, Fayette, Montgomery and Nicholas. C3 area includes counties of Boyle, Garrard, Jessamine, Lincoln, and Mercer. C4 area includes Anderson, Franklin, Harrison, Scott and Woodford counties.
Kentucky 4-H moved away from district programming to area programming on September 1, 2022.
4-H Camp 2024
4-H Camp 2024 for Montgomery County campers takes place June 3-7, 2024 at North Central 4-H Camp in Carlisle. Summer 4-H camp is for youth, ages 9-14. It provides a safe, secure and fun environment for young people.
Registration for campers takes place on-line by way of SignUpGenius beginning on Friday, March 1. The registration link will be posted on our website and Facebook page. You can also contact our office at 859-498-8741 to request to be on our email camp list to receive the link directly.
4-H Speech and Demonstration
The 4-H Speech and Demonstration Contest will take place Thursday, March 14 at 6:30pm at the Montgomery County Extension Education Center. Call the County Extension Office at 498-8741 to pre-register for the contest by Friday, March 8 to pre-register your topic.
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
Educational programs of the Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expressions, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
4-H Youth Development News - January 3, 2024
4-H Youth Development Program News
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent
U. K. College of Agriculture
4-H Camp 2024: Under the Big Top
Be the star of the show at 4-H Camp 2024! This year’s theme for 4-H Camp week is Under the Big Top. For Montgomery County campers, 4-H camp takes place June 3-7, 2024 at North Central 4-H Camp in Carlisle.
Going to camp, means you meeting and making new friends, learning new skills and being involved in fun activities. It is a week of memories you take home with you. It’s more fun than you have ever spent away from home, shooting a bow and arrow, being part of the winning team in field relay games, cooling off at the pool and remembering all the neat people you met and new friends made.
Summer 4-H camp is for youth, ages 9-14. It provides a safe, secure and fun environment for young people.
Kentucky 4-H camps, which there are four statewide, are accredited through the American Camp Association in recognizing that Kentucky 4-H Camps utilize the “best practices in the camping industry” towards providing a safe, nurturing, and fun environment for our campers.
For more information on 4-H Camp, contact your Montgomery County Cooperative Extension Service. Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service, such as 4-H Camp, serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
Camp Volunteers register in February
Registration for 4-H Camp Adult Volunteer counselors and Teen Volunteer Counselors also known as Junior Counselors ages 15-17 begins February 1. Volunteer counselors assist with the camp program as mentors to campers, cabin chaperons and assist with camp duties at meal times. For more detailed information about serving as a 4-H Camp volunteer, call me at 498-8741.
Kentucky 4-H Volunteer Forum
The Kentucky 4-H Volunteer Forum will take place February 22-24, 2024 at the Central Bank Convention Center and the Hyatt Regency in Lexington. Contact me at the Montgomery County Cooperative Extension Service office for more information about the Kentucky 4-H Volunteer Forum.
4-H Summit Awaits You
4-H Summit is for youth who are 6th, 7th and 8th grade students. Summit is designed to develop leadership, citizenship and communications skills of middle school-aged youth.
It takes place March 21-23, 2024 at the Lake Cumberland 4-H Leadership Center in Jabez. Registration for 4-H Summit is due January 15. For further information, contact me at 498-8741 or by email at: ccomer@uky.edu
How To Join 4-H…
For many of our 4-H project clubs, January 1 is the deadline to join the club and begin attending meetings. The first step though is completing the 4-H enrollment form annually. The form officially known as the 4-H Participant Information and Enrollment form or 4-H “PIE form” for short. You can complete it at the Montgomery County Extension Service office.
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
4-H Youth Development News - December 13, 2023
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent
U. K. College of Agriculture
Kentucky 4-H Volunteer Forum
The Kentucky 4-H Volunteer Forum will take place February 22-24, 2024 at the Central Bank Convention Center and the Hyatt Regency in Lexington. This year’s theme is Volunteers Reaching New Horizons. The Kentucky 4-H Volunteer Forum is the second largest of its kind in the United States in terms of attendance with approximately 1200 attendees.
The forum offers an accreditation opportunity for 4-H volunteers. Attendees can complete classes to earn a 4-H Volunteer accreditation. A Master 4-H Volunteer Accreditation can be earned by completing nine classes at the forum. The core requirements of accreditation include four classes which are Introduction to 4-H; 4-H Club Management; Ages and Stages of Youth Development; and Understanding EffectiveTeaching Methods and Learning Styles.
The final registration deadline is this Friday, December 15. Contact me at the Montgomery County Cooperative Extension Service office for more information about the Kentucky 4-H Volunteer Forum.
4-H Summit Awaits You
4-H Summit, originated in 2005. It has been held annually since that time focusing on youth who are currently enrolled in 6th, 7th and 8th grades. Summit is designed to develop leadership, citizenship and communications skills of middle school-aged youth. It does this through workshops, fun-shops, speakers and team-building activities, planned and designed to satisfy a wide range of interests.
Delegates choose from several interest areas including leadership, communications and citizenship. The greatest benefits young people receive from 4-H are confidence and knowledge to be good communicators and leaders. 4-H Summit works to strengthen these qualities.
The Summit takes place March 21-23, 2024 at the Lake Cumberland 4-H Leadership Center in Jabez.
Would you like to be a delegate? If “yes,” contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Service office no later than January 15. For further information about the Summit, contact me at 498-8741 or by email at: ccomer@uky.edu
How To Join 4-H…
Membership in 4-H begins with completing the enrollment form annually. The form officially known as the 4-H Participant Information and Enrollment form or 4-H “PIE form” for short.
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
4-H Youth Development News - November 22, 2023
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent
U. K. College of Agriculture
Lance Munday Wins National Contest
Lance Munday brought home a national championship by winning the National 4-H Turkey Barbecue Contest last Thursday in Louisville. The contest was held during the 2023 National 4-H Poultry and Egg Conference, November 15-16 at the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center. This annual conference brings 4-H members from across the country to compete in 4-H poultry and egg contests.
Lance, a Montgomery County 4-H member, represented Kentucky in this year’s Turkey Barbecue Contest, an event that is a two-part contest with one being the cooking/grilling part and the other being the illustrated talk part.
In the cooking portion of the contest, contestants are scored on their barbecue skills, food safety knowledge and skills and sensory evaluation of the cooked product.
In the illustrated presentation portion of the contest, contestants demonstrate their knowledge of the turkey industry in the United States and its economic importance along with their knowledge of general food safety and the nutritional value of turkey and its role in a balanced diet.
The annual 4-H conference includes five separate competitive events for 4-H members to complete that include Poultry Judging, Avian Bowl, Chicken Barbecue contest, Turkey Barbecue contest, and Egg Preparation contest.
In 2021, Lance represented Kentucky in the National 4-H Chicken Barbecue contest in which he placed 2nd in the nation.
How To Join 4-H…
Membership in 4-H begins with completing the enrollment form annually. The form officially known as the 4-H Participant Information and Enrollment form or 4-H “PIE form” for short.
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
4-H Youth Development News - October 25, 2023
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent
U. K. College of Agriculture
Upcycling Your Fashion Through 4-H
In a world characterized by fast fashion and the constant churn of consumer goods, 4-H advocates thrifting and upcycling alternatives. These practices save money and also significantly contribute to environmental conservation by extending the life of used items and reducing waste. Thrifting, the act of purchasing secondhand goods, and upcycling, the art of transforming old items into something new, form the cornerstones of a circular economy within the fashion and home industries.
Thrifting is not just about scoring a good deal; it's about being a conscious consumer. Here are some essential tips to make the most of your thrifting experience:
- Set a Budget: Before embarking on your thrift-store adventure, determine how much you're willing to spend. Knowing your budget will help you make wise choices and avoid impulsive purchases.
- Invest Time: Thrifting often requires patience. You may need to visit multiple stores and locations to find the perfect item. Remember, treasure hunting can take time.
- Avoid Overspending: Thrifting should not be a splurge. Stick to your budget, and don't give in to the temptation of buying more than you need.
- Use What You Buy: Only buy items you genuinely need and will use. Avoid accumulating more clutter in your life.
- Inspect for Quality: Examine items for defects and wear, paying particular attention to high-stress areas and seams. You want to ensure that your finds are durable and will serve you well.
Upcycling is a creative way to breathe new life into old items. Here's how you can start your upcycling journey:
- Visualize the End Product: Before you begin upcycling, have a clear idea of what you want to create. Planning ahead will help you make the most of the materials at hand.
- Prioritize Used Materials: Whenever possible, use materials from other old or unused items in your upcycling projects. This promotes a more sustainable approach.
- Minimize Waste: Plan your project meticulously to utilize as much of the original item as possible, leaving little to no waste behind.
- Set Realistic Goals: Don't bite off more than you can chew. Choose upcycling projects that match your skill level and resources to avoid unnecessary waste.
- Make It Fun: Upcycling can be a great family project, fostering creativity, sustainability, and quality time. Involve your loved ones and enjoy the process.
Thrifting and upcycling are more than just trends; they are powerful tools for creating a more sustainable and responsible future. By embracing these practices and sharing them with the younger generation through initiatives like 4-H, we can collectively reduce waste, lower our environmental impact and inspire a new wave of conscious consumers.
More information on 4-H thrifting and upcycling programs are available at your Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741.
How To Join 4-H…
We are almost two months into our new 4-H program year that began on September 1, 2023. Membership in 4-H begins with completing the enrollment form annually. The form officially known as the 4-H Participant Information and Enrollment form or 4-H “PIE form” for short, must be completed each new program year .
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
4-H Youth Development News - October 18, 2023
Charles M. Comer
Montgomery County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development
U. K. College of Agriculture, Food and Environment
Kentucky 4-H Ham Project
Country ham is a longstanding tradition dating back to Kentucky’s earliest settlers. The Kentucky 4-H Country Ham Project, a project that teaches 4-H youth the process of making country ham began in the late nineties with just forty youth. The project begins in January and ends at the Kentucky State Fair.
Today some 900 youth across Kentucky cure country hams each year and enter their hams in the State 4-H Country Ham Contest and compete in the 4-H Country Ham Speech Contest on opening day of the Kentucky State Fair held the third Thursday of August each year.
The 4-H hams are judged by Kentucky Country Ham Producers while the 4-H members present a speech on some aspect of curing hams. 4-H participants learn about food production and how the country ham fits into Kentucky's food heritage.
The Country Ham is distinctive to Kentucky and the Southeast. The “ham belt” of the United States includes Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and Missouri. The project not only teaches Kentucky’s youth about where their food comes from, but also teaches them about our food heritage.
Country ham is the dry-cured hind leg of a pig that harks back to the way food was preserved before mechanical refrigeration. Historically, pigs were harvested in the cold winter months of December through early February. The hams were removed and allowed to cool overnight before salt, sugar, and other spices were rubbed into the ham to begin the process of making a country ham.
The Kentucky 4-H Country Ham Project is a certified project. A certified project means that 4-H members must complete six hours of education to be eligible to compete in the project. The hours must be completed by June 1st.
To sign up for the project, a prospective 4-H member must complete the 4-H Participant Information and Enrollment form and attend the 4-H Livestock Club monthly meetings to earn their educational hours. The next step is to complete the Kentucky 4-H Country Ham contract prior to the deadline of December 1, 2023.
Curing of the hams takes place in the middle of January. Shucking of the hams takes place in May. The final preparation of the hams for exhibition takes place typically in late July or early August. Hams are then entered in the state contest in mid August.
For more information about the 4-H Country Ham project, contact your Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741.
How To Join 4-H…
September 1, 2023 began a new program year in Kentucky 4-H. It’s time to complete your membership form for the new year in 4-H. The form officially known as the 4-H Participant Information and Enrollment form or 4-H “PIE form” for short, must be completed annually to be considered a 4-H member.
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
4-H Youth Development News - September 13, 2023
Charles M. Comer
Montgomery County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development
U. K. College of Agriculture, Food and Environment
Kiernan Comer is a 2021 University of Kentucky graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry. While at the university, he served as a Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment Ambassador. He was a member of the Minorities in Agriculture Natural Resources and Related Sciences organization serving as a liaison seeking funding and working on organization initiatives. He served a year as the U.K. Student Ambassador to Agriculture Future of America organization, headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri.
Since graduating, he has served for one year as a Team Leader for the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps in the North Central region in Vinton, Iowa. The last several months he has worked as a Fire and Disaster Crew Leader for Southeast Conservation Corps.
Kiernan developed his love of outdoors through the Montgomery County 4-H youth development program. Attending camp for ten years as a camper, Junior Counselor in Training, Junior Counselor and as a volunteer adult counselor. Then he went to work for six summers as a Camp Program Staff member at North Central 4-H Camp. Then served as an Environmental Camp Intern in the fall 2021.
Here are his dreams and expectations for the next twenty-seven months.
Hello! My name is Kiernan Comer—and starting September 22nd—I will be a Peace Corps Forestry and Environment Extension Agent in Senegal, West Africa! On the 22nd, I will fly to Washington, D.C. for staging. There, I will meet the approximately 30 other volunteers who will serve in Senegal with me. These volunteers make up my “cohort”, and they will be part of my support network while in the country. After two days, we will fly to Senegal to begin three months of Pre-service Training in the city of Thiès. This includes health, security, language, and technical training.
Once I finish Pre-service Training, I will split off from my cohort and be sent to a host community on my own. There, I will be paired with a host family who I will live, eat, complete chores, and practice language with. As a Forestry and Environment Extension Agent, I will assist locals with various environmental projects. These could include environmental education, mangrove reforestation, tree planting and maintenance, mango and cashew production, and live fencing projects. However, the work I do will depend on the needs of the specific needs of the community.
During my 27-month term, I look forward to growing as a person and a professional. There will be so many things—language, culture, ecology—that will feel unfamiliar to me. Many of the lessons I have learned in the United States will not translate to Senegal. I will have to relearn how to make friends, how to be professional, and how to interpret the environment. My ability to stay curious and adapt will determine the success of my time there. At the end of service, I strive to contribute to the long-term health of my community’s people and environment.
Conversation with a New Peace Corps Volunteer Event
If you would like to learn more about Kiernan’s journey, he will speak about Peace Corps at a program to be held this Sunday, September 17 at the Montgomery County Extension Education Center from 2:00-5:00 PM with remarks followed by questions and answers at 3:00 PM.
Educational programs of Kentucky Cooperative Extension serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability. UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY, KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, AND KENTUCKY COUNTIES, COOPERATING
4-H Youth Development News - August 16, 2023
Charles M. Comer
Montgomery County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development
U. K. College of Agriculture, Food and Environment
Kentucky State Fair Cloverville: 4-H on Display
The Kentucky State Fair begins this Thursday, August 17 and once again 4-H exhibits are on display in Cloverville in South Wing A, Kentucky 4-H’s home during the 2023 run of the state fair. Cloverville is part of AgLand highlighting Kentucky’s agricultural heritage.
Project exhibits from 4-H members from all 120 counties are the biggest attraction of Cloverville. It showcases the talent, hard work and dedication of the Kentucky youths. The state fair is the culminating event for these 4-H members who are vying blue ribbon work and the opportunity to be a state champion!
In addition to the projects, Cloverville is home to live showcases and hands-on contests that allow 4-H members to display their natural talents and abilities as well as entertain thousands of fair visitors.
The Kentucky State Fair is Aug. 17-27 in Louisville. For more information on Cloverville is available by contacting the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 498-8741.
4-H Country Ham Contest August 17
Six Montgomery County 4-H members will be entering their cured country hams in the State Fair 4-H Country Ham Contest. In addition to the judged ham contest, they will compete in the 4-H Country Ham Speech Contest. Junior members ages 9-13 years of age will present on the topic of the history of country ham curing. Senior member ages 14-18 will present on the topic of how to control pest that can infest a country ham. The six are Oaklee Amburgey, SydneyShea Amburgey, Rhett Amburgey, Kenleigh French, Marshall Kipp and Jefferson Oldfield.
Livestock Goes to State Fair
It’s the highlight of the summer show season. It’s the reward of long hours preparing for several county fair shows. The Kentucky State Fair 4-H and FFA Livestock Shows begins today and runs through next week. Competing at State Fair is the highlight of the summer for youngsters and their families. It’s an opportunity to go up against the best of the best from all across the state. Over the next several days, families will be preparing to load up their animals and head to the fair.
Here’s a look at the busy schedule ahead:
Tuesday, August 22 – 4-H and FFA Market Goat Showmanship and Commercial Doe Show at 4:00pm in Broadbent Arena
Wednesday, August 23 - 4-H and FFA Heifer Show at 8:00 AM in Broadbent Arena; 10:30am; 4-H and FFA Swine Showmanship contest at 10:00 AM in the Swine Barn; 4-H and FFA Market Lamb Show at Noon in the Sheep Barn; 4-H and FFA Beef Heifer Showmanship at 1:00 PM in Broadbent Arena; 4-H and FFA Breeding Gilt Show in the Swine Barn; 4-H and FFA Market Goat Show in Broadbent Arena.
Thursday, August 24 – 4-H and FFA Crossbred Market Hog Show at 8:00am in the Swine Barn; 4-H and FFA Market Steer Show at 8:00am in Broadbent Arena with the Beef Showmanship Contest following thirty minutes afterwards.
Thursday, August 24 – Championship Drive at 6:30 PM in Broadbent Arena.
All of the animal shows and contests take place in the West Wing and/or Broadbent Arena of the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center. West Wing includes the Sheep and Swine barns along with Newmarket Hall. For details, contact me at your Montgomery County Extension Service Office at 498-8741.
Educational programs of Kentucky Cooperative Extension serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability. UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY, KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, AND KENTUCKY COUNTIES, COOPERATING
4-H Youth Development News - August 2, 2023
Charles M. Comer
Montgomery County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development
U. K. College of Agriculture, Food and Environment
YOUTH EXHIBITED AT THE COUNTY 4-H RALLY DAY
Montgomery County 4-H hosted a 4-H Project Rally Day at the Montgomery County Cooperative Extension Education Center on July 27. The event is a qualifying-event for 4-H project work to be selected for entry at 4-H Cloverville at the Kentucky State Fair. At the Rally, the project exhibits were judged and received a quality ribbon of Blue, Red or White. The color corresponds to the quality of excellence of the exhibit with blue meaning excellent, red meaning very good and white meaning fair. Champions in each project category received a Purple Ribbon and now advance to the Kentucky State Fair in August for further competition and recognition.
Following are the results of the 2023 Montgomery County 4-H Rally Day
DIVISION 1000 - COUNTY RECORD BOOKS
Class 1002 – 4-H Project Record Books: All project records received a Blue Ribbon.
●Kenleigh French – Livestock
●Jefferson Oldfield – Livestock
DIVISION 6013 – COUNTRY HAM
DIVISION 6015 – HORTICULTURE & PLANT SCIENCE
●Class 586 – Squash, Summer
Kenleigh French – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 587 – Eggplant
Kenleigh French – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 565 – Terrariums
Clay Garland – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
DIVISION 6018 – FIELD CROPS
●Class 607 – Yellow – Shelled (previous year’s crop)
Kenleigh French – 1st Place: Blue & Champions
●Class 614 – Soybeans (current year’s crop)
Kenleigh French – 1st Place: Blue & Champions
DIVISION 6025 – WOOD SCIENCE
●Class 677 – Level 2 – Not from a kit.
Lakelyn Hoffman – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
DIVISION 6030 – PHOTOGRAPHY
●Class 764b. – NATURAL RESOURCES – Water
Maesyn Ingram – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 764d. – NATURAL RESOURCES – Scenic
Maesyn Ingram – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 764e. NATURAL RESOURCES – Native Plants
Maesyn Ingram – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 764f. NATURAL RESOURCES – Insect
Clay Garland – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 765a. – AGRICULTURE – Livestock
Clay Garland – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 765d. – AGRICULTURE – Scenic
Clay Garland – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 765e. – AGRICULTURE – Farm Equipment/Implement
Clay Garland – 1st Place: Red & Champion
Maesyn Ingram – 2nd Place: Red
●Class 765f. – AGRICULTURE – Modern or Historic Practices
Clay Garland – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 766a. – LEADERSHIP – Formal/Candid Portrait
Maesyn Ingram – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 766b. – LEADERSHIP – Urban Scenic
Maesyn Ingram – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 766c. – LEADERSHIP – Event
Maesyn Ingram – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 767b. – FCS – Food Preparation
Maesyn Ingram – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 767e. – FCS – Patterns/Design
Clay Garland – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 768b. – SET – Architecture
Maesyn Ingram – 1st Place: Red & Champion
●Class 768c. – SET – Energy
Clay Garland – 1st Place: Red & Champion
●Class 768c. – SET – Movement
Clay Garland – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 771 – HORTICULTURE – Single B&W Photo
Maesyn Ingram – 1st Place: Blue
Clay Garland – 2nd Place: Blue
●Class 772 – HORTICULTURE – Single Color Photo
Clay Garland – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
Maesyn Ingram – 2nd Place: Blue
●Class 774 – HORTICULTURE – Collection
Maesyn Ingram – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
DIVISION 6032 – SEWING
●Class 790a.– Unit 1 – “Let’s Learn to Sew”
Laci Sorrell – (Cloverbud) – 1st Place: Blue
DIVISION 6033 – NEEDLEWORK
●Class 814 – Large crochet item
Emma Combs – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
DIVISION 6035 – FOODS
●Class 843 – BISCUITS – Rolled Biscuits
Clay Garland – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 845 – QUICK BREADS – Cornmeal Muffins
Clay Garland – 1st Place: Red & Champion
●Class 848 – COOKIES - Brownies
Clay Garland – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 849 – COOKIES – Snickerdoodle Cookies
Maesyn Ingram – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
●Class 858 – CANDY - Classic Chocolate Fudge
Maesyn Ingram – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
DIVISION 6039 – HOME ENVIRONMENT
●Class 902 – In My Home – Accessory – original or adapted design
Lakelyn Hoffman – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
DIVISION 6040 CONSUMER & FINANCIAL EDUCATION
Class 920 – Poster – What Does Real Life Cost?
Kyera Wright – 1st Place: Blue & Champion
DIVISION 6042 KENTUCKY TRENDS
Class 1050 – Junior Upcycling
Laci Sorrell (Cloverbud) – 1st Place: Blue Ribbon
4-H Exhibits that were selected as Champion in their class will advance to the Kentucky State Fair. For more information about 4-H Rally Day, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Office at 498-8741.
Educational programs of Kentucky Cooperative Extension serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability. UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY, KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, AND KENTUCKY COUNTIES, COOPERATING
4-H Youth Development Program News - July 26, 2023
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent
U. K. College of Agriculture
Kentucky 4-H state fair projects ignite curiosity and cultivate skills
At the heart of 4-H lies project work, an initiative that empowers 4-Hers to choose a topic of personal interest and passionately delve into it. Projects are available in seven core areas: natural resources, agriculture, communication and expressive arts, family consumer sciences, health and wellness, leadership and sciences engineering and technology. Kentucky 4-H ensures every member finds a project that ignites their curiosity.
Once a 4-Her selects a project, they embark on a journey of skill mastery and personal growth. Throughout the project year, these young individuals acquire specialized knowledge and develop essential life skills such as public speaking, record-keeping and decision-making. These invaluable skills will serve them well in their future endeavors, enabling them to become confident and capable community leaders.
The Kentucky State Fair, August 17-27, is a significant platform for 4-H members to showcase their completed projects and compete with their peers. This year's fair will feature a diverse array of 4-H project work, from livestock exhibits in the West Hall to the innovative projects in Cloverville displayed in the South Wing. The fair provides an excellent opportunity for fairgoers to witness these 4-Her’s creativity, dedication and hard work.
All 4-H'ers who have their projects displayed at the county, regional, or state fair are considered winners in their own right. Every 4-H member's journey is a testament to their growth, resilience and commitment to personal development.
Kentucky 4-H invites the public to attend the Kentucky State Fair to witness the exceptional project work of these talented young individuals.
For more information about 4-H projects and other topics, your Montgomery County Cooperative Extension Service.
4-H Rally Day is the Qualifying Event for State Fair
4-H Rally Day is the qualifying event for State Fair 4-H Cloverville exhibits. This event takes place this Thursday (July 27) at the Montgomery County Extension Education Center. This is the chance for 4-H members to exhibit their best work in their 4-H projects in hopes of it advancing to the next stage—the Kentucky State Fair. Exhibits ranging from insect collections, great tasting food, beautiful red, ripe tomatoes, and artistic photographs are just a few of the categories young people can exhibit at Rally Day. Project exhibit entry time is Wednesday, July 26, 2023, 1:00-4:00 PM and on Thursday morning, July 27, 2023, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Montgomery County Extension Education Center. Exhibits will be released Thursday afternoon, 4:00-5:00 PM for pick up by the exhibitors. For more information on the Rally Day, contact the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741 to request one.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
4-H News - July 19, 2023
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent, U. K. College of Agriculture
State 4-H Communications Contest Results
The journey to State 4-H Communications Contest begins in March with county level contest. If a 4-H member wins at county, then the next level is area contest which encompasses winners from the eight counties that make up C1-C2 Area. Earning the “win” at area results in the trip to State 4-H Communications Day in July.
This past Saturday the state event took place in Nicholasville. Two Montgomery County 4-H members competed…and did real well. Emma Combs competed in two different contests, 15-Year-Old Speech and Mock Job Interviews. Lance Munday competed in 17-18 Year-Old Speech.
Emma won her speech category and was a top 3 finalist in mock interviews. Lance earned reserve champion honors in his speech category.
It was a successful journey from county to area to state. Congratulations to Emma and Lance!
4-H Rally Day is the Qualifying Event for State Fair
4-H Rally Day is the qualifying event for State Fair 4-H Cloverville exhibits. This event will be held Thursday, July 27 at the Montgomery County Extension Education Center. This is the chance for 4-H members to exhibit their best work in their 4-H projects in hopes of it advancing to the next stage—the Kentucky State Fair. Exhibits ranging from insect collections, great tasting food, beautiful red, ripe tomatoes, and artistic photographs are just a few of the categories young people can exhibit at Rally Day.
Much like the fair, 4-H project exhibits will be judged on the Danish Award System in which all exhibitors receive a ribbon indicating the quality of their work. Blue for excellent; red for very good; and white for fair. Premiums will be awarded to those exhibitors who receive first, second or third place for their exhibits. Champion or first place exhibits will advance onto the state fair.
Entry time for exhibits is Wednesday, July 26, 2023, 1:00-4:00 PM, as well as, Thursday morning, July 27, 2023, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Montgomery County Extension Education Center. Exhibits will be released Thursday afternoon, 4:00-5:00 PM.
To be eligible to exhibit in the 4-H section, exhibitors must be enrolled in the Montgomery County 4-H Program for 2023, and must have completed their project in the past year. For an information pamphlet on the different categories, you can call the Montgomery County Extension Service office at 859-498-8741 to request one.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
4-H News - May 24, 2023
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent, U. K. College of Agriculture
Three Advance to State Communications Contest
Curtis Bailey, Emma Combs, and Lance Munday won their respective classes of competition at the C1-C2 Area 4-H Communications Contest held May 2 at the Madison County Extension Service office in Richmond.
Curtis won his Senior Shooting Sports Demonstration category. His presentation was focused on How to Shoot a Bow.
Emma won two different contests. She won the 15-Year-Old Speech Contest with a speech entitled Polarity in Politics. She then added to her winning ways by winning the 14-15 Year Old category of the Mock Interviews.
Lance rounded out the winning ways at the area contest claiming top prize for his speech The Farm Bill in the 17-18 Year Old Speech category.
They will now advance to the State 4-H Communications Day event to be held Saturday, July 8 at Red Oak Elementary in Nicholasville, Jessamine County. Demonstration Contest & Mock Interview Contest to be held at 9:30 am followed by the Speech Contest in the afternoon beginning at 1:00.
4-H Camper Orientation This Thursday Evening
The 4-H Camper Orientation, held for all campers along with their parents and /or guardians is scheduled for this Thursday, May 25 at 6:00 p.m. at the Montgomery County Education Center located at 104 East Locust Street, Mount Sterling, next door to the Montgomery County Extension Service office. The orientation covers rules and camper expectations; travel plans; departure times; camper checklist of items to pack for camp; medication handling requirements; and cabin assignments along with other relevant information pertaining to camp.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
4-H News - May 17, 2023
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent, U. K. College of Agriculture
Get your child ready for 4-H camp with these nine exercises
Camp is an exciting opportunity for 4-Hers, but a group living environment with high independence can also be stressful. To ensure your child maximizes their potential for success at camp, we suggest preparing for the experience in advance. These nine exercises will prepare your child manage their belongings, navigate the campgrounds and prepare physically, mentally and emotionally for the experience.
1) Pack with your child and practice packing their suitcase a few days before camp. Keep their belongings in their luggage. Packing clothes in zippered plastic bags with day labels can help your child stay organized at camp. They can then repack the dirty clothes in the empty bag.
2) Practice packing your child's backpack. During camp, counselors help campers pack and review the schedule. Your child should bring a towel, a zippered plastic bag for a wet swimsuit, sunscreen, water bottle, hat and sunglasses. Counselors advise campers to double-check their belongings before leaving an area.
3) Help your child pack their toiletries. A small backpack for dry items and a caddy or waterproof bag for wet items is best. Before camp, have your child use their caddy for bathing, brushing their teeth, getting ready for the day and going to bed.
4) Camp shower lines can be long. Help your child track shower time. Practice five-minute showers before camp. Assure modest children they can always shower in their swimsuit.
5) Campers must "pitch in" to keep the camp clean. To get into the routine, help your child sweep, make their bed, wipe the kitchen table after meals and make their bed.
6) Camp can be busy. Help your child track time and monitor their surroundings. While exploring the campgrounds on the first day, note landmarks. To familiarize your child with the camp layout, look up your campground map on the 4-H website. In the weeks before camp, take family walks to prepare your child for hiking.
7) There is a lot of walking at camp. Teach your camper to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Divide your child's body weight by two to determine how many daily ounces of water they should drink. Find their camp water bottle and practice tracking their water intake in the weeks leading up to camp.
8) No one likes moldy clothes. Teach your child to use a clothesline and space items out to dry before packing them back in the zippered plastic bag.
9) Some campers find group living stressful. Discuss ways your child can find quiet time in a busy environment and how to recognize when they need a break. Your camper can ask their counselor for quiet time. Talk about managing emotions with your child. Give them a scenario and discuss what they should do if they encounter problems.
Work through these exercises with your child throughout the weeks leading up to camp. Remind your camper that it’s normal to feel overwhelmed in a new environment and that it is okay to ask for help. Our staff and volunteers want every child to thrive at camp and we are committed to supporting your camper.
For more information about 4-H camp, visit the website at https://4-h.ca.uky.edu/camp or contact me at your Montgomery County Cooperative Extension Service.
4-H Camp is an educational program. Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
4-H News - April 26, 2023
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent, U. K. College of Agriculture
Montgomery County 4-Her’s to Compete in upcoming Area Communications Contest
What a difference a year makes! Last year at this time, our 4-H members were competing in 4-H Speech and Demonstration and Mock Interviews also known as the 4-H Communications Contest competed with youth from the twenty-county district known as District 1. At that time, the contest was hosted in Montgomery County at Northview Elementary School. This year, our 4-H members competing in the same contest will be competing in the first C1-C2 Area 4-H Communications Contest hosted by Madison County Extension Service office.
Yes, in one year’s time we have gone from a district made up of twenty counties of eastern Kentucky to an area made up of eight central Kentucky counties. The counties with Montgomery County are Nicholas, Bourbon, and Fayette which constitute the Central 2 area combined with Clark, Madison, Powell and Estill which make up the Central 1 area.
Six members will travel to Richmond to compete next Tuesday in the contest. They include Kenleigh French, Curtis Bailey Sophia Wright, Emma Combs, Kyera Wright, and Lance Munday.
All qualified at the county contest held in March. They will compete for the opportunity to advance to the State 4-H Communications Contest to be held in July. We wish each one the best outcome.
Kentucky 4-H Foundation Offers Scholarships
The Kentucky 4-H Foundation is now accepting applications for their 2023 Scholarship Program. The foundation offers a total of fifteen scholarships thirteen of which are offered to graduating high school seniors who are members of 4-H. The other two are offered to 4-H alumni who have completed at least one-year of college or technical school. The deadline to apply for foundation scholarships is May 12. For more information about the Kentucky 4-H Foundation Scholarship program you can contact Melissa Miller at melissag.miller@uky.edu. She is the foundation director.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
4-H News - April 19, 2023
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent, U. K. College of Agriculture
Using social media wisely
Social media is very much a part of our culture, with most young people and adults regularly using the outlets to connect with their friends and family. When used appropriately, social media can be very positive. However, mis-use can lead to serious consequences. For example, cyberbullying has increased with the popularity of social media. In some cases, thieves have used social media accounts to target their victims.
Some social media outlets have member guidelines, such as Twitter and Facebook, that require account holders to be at least 13 years old. However, some young people falsify their ages to gain entry.
Here are some tips to help you and your children safely navigate social media platforms.
Ensure you and your child use your real names and ages when activating social media accounts. Don’t post personal information, such as social security numbers, home addresses, phone numbers and details about when you’re on vacation or not home, on social media sites to avoid becoming a target for thieves. Make sure you and your child personally know each person listed as your friends or followers.
Use social media privacy settings but realize that what you say on social media is never really private. Monitor your child’s accounts and your friends’ and followers’ feeds to ensure no one has posted private or inappropriate information about you or your family. Ask your friends to remove any information involving you or your family that you feel is inappropriate or private. Remove tags from any inappropriate photos your friends may post of you and your family.
Remind your child that what they say and do online can have real-life consequences, both now and in the future. Encourage your children to talk to you if someone’s online behavior makes them feel uncomfortable or threatened.
For more information on online safety, contact your Montgomery County Cooperative Extension Service at 859-498-8741.
Kentucky 4-H Foundation Offers Scholarships
The Kentucky 4-H Foundation is now accepting applications for their 2023 Scholarship Program. The foundation offers a total of fifteen scholarships thirteen of which are offered to graduating high school seniors who are members of 4-H. The other two are offered to 4-H alumni who have completed at least one-year of college or technical school. The deadline to apply for foundation scholarships is May 12. For more information about the Kentucky 4-H Foundation Scholarship program you can contact Melissa Miller at melissag.miller@uky.edu. She is the foundation director.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
4-H News - April 12, 2023
4-H Youth Development Program News
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent, U. K. College of Agriculture
2022 4-H Achievement Award Winners & State Champions Recognized
4-H members were recognized at the annual 4-H Achievement Awards program held March 9 at the Montgomery County Extension Education Center.
Those youth recognized at the annual program were 4-H members during the 2022 program year who completed project record forms and/or the 4-H Achievement Forms along with those who won a state champion honor in 4-H-designated contests, shows and events.
2022 Achievement and Project Record winners were Uryah Ayers, Zander Ayers, Curtis Bailey, Arabella Caldwell, Isaac Carpenter, Will Compton, Kenleigh French, Nevaeh Hall, Maesyn Ingram, Braxton Johnson, Abigail Jordan, Justin Leadingham, Zachary Manley, Lance Munday, Jefferson Oldfield, Luke Pierce, Rilee Pitts, Bracken Powell, Jayla Sands, Dalton Smith, Kaylee Wilson, Leah Wilson, Kyera Wright, and Sophia Wright.
The title of “state champion” is a worthy level of achievement in 4-H contests and events held throughout the program year. In 2022, these were the 4-H members who attained the title of state champion in their respective competitions: State Fair 4-H Livestock Shows - Addison Arnett, Braylon Crank, and Kenleigh French; State 4-H Shooting Sports Contest - Isaiah Blankenship, Rebekah Jones, Hannah Chandler, Landon Lawson, Will Compton, Katherine Parks,Dakota Hunley, John Stephens, Dawson Jones, Sophia Wright; State 4-H Speech and Demonstration Contest - Curtis Bailey and Maesyn Ingram and State Fair 4-H Photography exhibit - Zachary Manley
The awards program is held annually. Awards are presented to those 4-H members completing record-keeping in individual projects along with completing the 4-H Achievement Form which is a cumulative record form of their Leadership, Citizenship, Community Service, Marketing/Communications and Participation activities in 4-H.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
4-H News - April 5, 2023
4-H Youth Development Program News
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent, U. K. College of Agriculture
Get Outdoors for Health and Learning
With spring’s arrival, we reap many “wellness” benefits experiencing the outdoors because nature supports mind and body wellness.
Now is a great time to encourage children to put down their electronic devices and go outside to enjoy nature. Getting outdoors has many advantages, including increased vitamin D levels, more physical activity, improved mood, better concentration and faster healing, according to research from Harvard Medical School.
Here are some ideas to encourage children to go outside.
Offer enjoyable activities. Bubbles and sidewalk chalk are both excellent low-cost incentives for outdoor play. Additionally, many young people enjoy fun chores, like walking the dog.
Make it a contest. Kickball and dodgeball can be enjoyable games to play with your family or with neighbors. Another option is to play a game of hide and seek.
Conduct an insect safari to teach children to listen and look for insects. To contribute to a 4-H digital insect collection, they might even want to take pictures of the insects they find.
Introduce kids to nature's wonders. As a family, observe sunrises, sunsets, or the night sky. Take a stroll and observe the buds on the various tree species.
For more ideas on ways to get young people outdoors, contact your Montgomery County Extension Service office of the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
4-H News - March 8, 2023
4-H Youth Development Program News
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent, U. K. College of Agriculture
Communicators Compete
4-H Speech and Demonstration contest was held last Thursday night for county 4-H members. Six youth will now advance onto the Area contest in May. They include Emma Combs, Curtis Bailey, Kyera Wright, Lance Munday, Kenleigh French, and Sophia Wright.
The event is three contests rolled into one communication event. These include Speech contest; Demonstration contest; and Mock Interview contest.
Speech or public speaking allows youth to deliver speeches on a topic they find interesting. In the process of organizing their speech, they develop valuable research skills and learn organizational skills composing the speech and giving it the structure and flow that both that gets the audience’s attention and informs or educates them.
Emma Combs, Curtis Bailey, Kyera Wright, Lance Munday, and Kenleigh French presented speeches. The speech categories are divided by age so that a youngster is competing with other participants who are similar age. Speech topics on in the contest ranged from Polarity in Politics to Rooftop Farming to Texas Longhorns.
Demonstration is a show-and-tell-type of presentation making use of visual aids such as posters or signs along with equipment or supplies to aid in relaying the message to the audience. Demonstrations are 4-H project-oriented presentations.
Sophia Wright and Curtis Bailey presented demonstrations in the contest. Topics included How to Play a Violin and Archery 101.
Emma Combs will also advance to Area in the Mock Interview contest. Mock interview is a simulated job interview that allows 4-H participants the opportunity to practice and gain skills in the interviewing for a job.
The Speech and Demonstration event is a communication event that begins at county level. Youth who qualify at county advance to district level vying for the opportunity to advance to the State 4-H Communications Contest held at the University of Kentucky campus in July.
These qualifiers from Montgomery County will now advance to the C1-C2 Area contest to be held on Tuesday, May 2 at the Madison County Extension Service office.
Kentucky 4-H: A Capitol Experience
State 4-H Capitol Experience takes place Tuesday, March 14 in Frankfort.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
4-H News - March 1, 2023
4-H Youth Development Program News
Charles M. Comer, 4-H Agent, U. K. College of Agriculture
The Whole Truth
Grains are split into two subgroups: whole grains and refined grains. Whole grains, which provide more fiber, have all the grain kernel which includes the bran, the germ and the endosperm. These three parts make up a whole grain.
Read the Nutrition Facts label particularly the ingredients portion to be sure to choose products that list a whole grain first.
Don’t be fooled. Whole grain and multi-grain are not the same. Stick to products labeled whole grain.
Check the fiber value on the Nutrition Facts label. Look for products with at least ten percent Daily Value of fiber.
Popcorn: A Healthy, Whole Grain Snack
Do you like snacks? Who doesn’t!? The problem is that most snacks aren’t healthy for your body. Popcorn, a popular snack, can be a healthy snack as long as it’s prepared without adding too much butter or salt.
Whole grains are an important part of healthy diets. Healthy diets that include whole grains may lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of developing obesity, and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease mortality.
Did you know that popcorn is a 100 percent whole grain? And that one serving of popcorn provides about one-third of the whole grains most adolescents and adults need?
For a whole grain snack on the go, there are many options for healthy pre-packaged popcorn at the supermarket or convenience store, too. Glance at the ingredients list and nutrition facts to make sure the amounts of sodium and saturated fat are low.
Popcorn can be a healthy, whole grain choice for anyone. For more healthy snacking tips and ideas, check out MyPlate.gov.
Kentucky 4-H: A Capitol Experience
State 4-H Capitol Experience takes place Tuesday, March 14 in Frankfort.
Summer Camp Registration
4-H Camp takes place June 5-9, 2023. Camp registration for campers ages 9-14 has begun as of March 1.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. For information, contact me at the Montgomery County Extension Office at 859-498-8741 or via electronic mail ccomer@uky.edu. You can also visit our website at www.ca.uky.edu/montgomery/.
Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.