Michigan State University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. Michigan State University Extension pro-grams and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in fur-therance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Quentin Tyler, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Refer-ence to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not men-tioned. The 4-H Name and Emblem have special protections from Congress, protected by code 18 USC 707.

Kalamazoo County

Welcome to the 2021-2022 4-H programming

year!

Enrollment started September 15th

:

Families and volunteers will need to log into the 4-H online database at: https://v2.4honline.com/#/user/sign-in to re-enroll for the new programming year.

There will be a new family guide released, in the next couple of weeks, to

help families and volunteers who are re-enrolling and those who are new to

the 4-H program .

Some reminders:

Any youth 5-19 years old as of January 1, 2022 will be able to enroll in

the 4-H program

Adults who would like to be a volunteer will need to go through the MSU Extension Volunteer Selection Process prior to working with youth, unless it has been completed previously. This includes both virtu-ally and face to face. For information on this process please visit here: https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/msu_extension_volunteer_selection_process

Adults who are current volunteers will need to log in and complete the

authorization signatures so that we may complete the required annual

background check

There is not an enrollment fee to enroll

Re-enrollment is due no later than November 30, 2021

New members may join anytime during the year, but will not be able to meet fair participation requirements if enrolled after April 1, 2022

Contact Us

Veronica Bolhuis 4-H Program Coordinator (269) 383-8867 bolhuisv@msu.edu Amanda Williams 4-H Urban Program Coordinator (269) 383-8878 will1975@msu.edu

201 W. Kalamazoo Ave. Suite 306 Kalamazoo, MI. 49007 Phone 269-383-8830 main line MSU Extension Email msue.kalamazoo@campusad.msu.edu Web Site http://canr.msu.edu/kalamazoo4H Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/Kalamazoo-County-4-H-Youth-Program-122047197873078

October 2021

2 Kalamazoo County News

Poultry Project News

Planning for the next poultry year will be the focus of our next Poultry Project Meeting on Tues-day, Oct. 19th at 7pm - location still to be determined. Hopefully, the Expo Center will be able to host evening meetings again but that still isn't possible at this time. If you know of a FREE central-ly located meeting space, please let Jackie know at 269 629-9664.

In the meantime - start thinking about if you want to raise some layers or breed birds by joining a group order to the McMurray Hatchery. To get the varieties that are popular, they need to be ordered by early December!!!

The Michigan Fowlfest Poultry Show will be held on

Saturday, Oct. 23rd in Chesaning at the Saginaw Fairgrounds. This would make a great fall family day trip to see how poultry shows are held and a super oppor-tunity to see all of the different breeds and talk to the breeders. It may also be a great way to buy some new birds! Call Jackie for more info about the show.

HOLIDAY ORNAMENT PAINTING PARTIES

The Kalamazoo ARTisans Pottery Studio, located in the Park Trades Center in downtown Kalamazoo, is holding some "parties" in which you can create your own ceramic holiday orna-ment. The studio is offering 4-H groups a chance to have their own party on Thursday, Nov. 4th at 6 pm. The studio has a variety of ornament shapes that you can paint with colorful glazes - all supplies, instruction and firing will be included for $5/ ornament.

Join us for a fun activity with your 4-H friends. If interested please call Jackie Stasevich at 269-629-9664 as there is a limit of 10 participants.

The Kalamazoo County 4-H Dog project

is looking forward to seeing everyone for our monthly meetings at Paw Prints Grooming, 6062 S 12th St, Kalamazoo, MI 49009 at 6:30 pm.

Here is our schedule for the year:

• 11/11 and 11/12: Fundraiser at fairgrounds

• 1/20: Dock Diving

• 2/17: Diets

Current guidelines from MSU Extension require that masks are worn,

regardless of vaccination status, for all indoor meetings.

We encourage outdoor meetings whenever possible.

3 Kalamazoo County News

Calling all Teens! Would you like to share your knowledge with other? Would you like to build up your volunteer hours and help younger or less experienced 4-H youth with their projects or teach them something new? Becoming a teen leader gives you a varie-ty of opportunities and life skills that will help you to enhance your own skills. Come learn about becoming a teen leader at our first meeting of the year on

October 13th at 6:30pm at Milham Park at the picnic shelter near the playground. Please RSVP to Veronica at bolhuisv@msu.edu by October 11th. If you are unable to attend and would like to learn more please reach out to Veronica also.

4

There is still time to submit your nominations for the

2021 MI 4-H Animal Science Sportsperson of the Year!

Each year, a YOUTH & an ADULT award are given to deserving individuals nominated from throughout our great state. Nominations are being accepted through October 15th.

Please consider nominating a deserving youth or adult! Details, previous win-ners and the nomination form can be found at: https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/competitive_event_resources

Fall Into Fun with Michigan 4-H this autumn!

Using the GooseChase app, Michigan youth and families are invited to join in gameplay while learning about our environment. Each week, multiple gameplay prompts will be released that will engage youth in learning about how Michigan’s plants, animals, and environment change in the fall. Prizes will be awarded to the top 3 finishers!

For more information, and to register, visit https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/fall-into-fun-4-h-spin-club

What is the Kalamazoo County 4-H Leaders Council?

The Leaders Council is the organization made up of one representative from each Kalamazoo County 4-H Community Club

which, in cooperation with the MSU Extension 4-H staff, makes policy, plans and assists in directing the 4-H Youth Pro-gram in Kalamazoo County.

The Executive Committee (2-year terms, which expire at the end of a 4-H Programming Year)

Please feel free to contact any of us with suggestions, questions or concerns about Kalamazoo County 4-H.

We are looking forward to a great 2021-2022 4-H Year!

Lions and tigers and Snakes - oh My! Did you know you can show snakes along with other reptiles, amphibians, pet birds and small furries at the Kalamazoo County Youth Fair?

The 2021 Critter show was held on Tuesday in the Poultry Barn and was a lot of fun!

4-Hers shared their pet snakes, a bearded dragon, guinea pigs, mice and a fancy rat!

Below are our results of the 2021 Kalamazoo Show:

Champion Boar Guinea Pig (Cavy): Sakara Wank

Reserve Boar Guinea Pig (Cavy): Sakara Wank

Champion Guinea Pig (Cavy): Sakara Wank with her champion boar

Reserve Guinea Pig (Cavy): Sakara Wank with her champion boar

Champion Pocket Pet : Johanna Mortimore with her blue rat

Reserve Champion Pocket Pet: Johanna Mortimore with her gray mouse

Champion Snake: Johanna Mortimore with her albino rosy boa

Reserve Champion Snake: Sakara Wank with her corn snake

Champion Reptile/Amphibian/Snake: Johanna Mortimore with her bearded dragon

Reserve Champion Reptile/Amphibian/Snake: Johanna Mortimore with her albino rosy boa

Look on the 4-H calendar for meetings and events to share these pets. Make sure to sign up for the Cavies and Critters pro-ject in 4-H online if you want to show your critter at Kalamazoo County Youth Fair or you can contact Superintendent Andrea McCubbin: Cell: 269-598-5231 or email jamcubbin@aol.com for more information.

Past-President Chris Chase christinamariechase@gmail.com (269)370-1245 2023

President Andrea McCubbin jamccubbin@aol.com

(269) 598-5231 2023

Vice-President Laura VanSweden laura_secrist@yahoo.com

(269)806-3201 2022

Secretary Jessica Kaercher jjkaercher78@gmail.com

(269) 806-4408 2022

Treasurer Tacey Ringle pipertacey@gmail.com

(269) 903-7082 2022

4-H is planning on participating in the

Maple Hill Holiday Parade

November 20, 2021

www.kalamazooholidayparade.org

As the official kick-off to the holiday season, The Kalamazoo Holiday Parade is a grassroots, com-

munity celebration designed to connect our nonprofit organizations, businesses, and associations

with the general public, providing holiday entertainment.

The parade is hosted by Maple Hill Auto Group. The success of the parade depends on each

unit’s ability to provide entertainment value and visual celebration. Units must develop and execute

a holiday theme, have participants to dress in holiday attire or costumes complementing their

theme, and professionally represent their organization or business.

Please keep your eyes open for notification and how to let the organizers of this, for Kalamazoo County 4-H, on how to

participate. We are limited to no more than 50 participants. Our plan is to have the bus and youth walking.

Parade Confirmation and Notification Procedure:

• Approved applications will receive an email confirmation within 5 days of receipt.

• Final Confirmation of entry will be mailed after November 5 and will include a complete line-up and event day in-

structions.

• It is the organization’s responsibility to communicate the line-up assignment, location, and time to their members.

• The parade line-up will be announced on the web at www.kalamazooholidayparade.org

7 STATEWIDE CALENDAR OF EVENTS

4-H Events and Workshops

October 6: 4-H Future Squad—Budgeting 101 Online Do you have a plan to reach your financial goals? Do you know how you spend your money? This workshop will get you started on creating a budget that works for you. https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/future-squad10-6 October 7: 4-H Future Squad—Building Connections Online Sometimes it’s not what you know, but who you know. During this interactive workshop youth will learn how to build connections and how to network like a professional. https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/future-squad10-7 October 13: 4-H Future Squad—Using Your Voice Online Participants will take part in discussions and activities to identify the unique strengths and assets youth bring to decision-making groups and discuss strategies to remove barriers to highlight youth voices. https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/future-squad10-13 October 14: 4-H Future Squad—Goal-setting Online Whether exploring goals for future money or career goals, this workshop covers the importance of goal setting and the basics of SMART goals, allowing youth to create their own. https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/future-squad10-14 October 20: 4-H Future Squad—Career Connections Through Volunteering Online Do you hunger for social justice? Do you thirst for connection in your community? Assess your skills and passions for volunteering as a pathway to career connections, as well as grow your friendships and networks. https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/future-squad10-20 October 27: 4-H Future Squad—Public Speaking Online This training will help participants learn the best practices of public speaking. Participants will practice getting over nerves, learn what not to do, and hone basic public speaking skills through hands-on activities and example videos. https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/future-squad10-27 October 28: 4-H Future Squad—The Art of Time Management Online Time management looks at how you organize and spend your time. There is an art to arranging your time to increase productivity and reduce stress. Learn some tips and develop some plans to best manage your time. https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/future-squad10-28

For the most up-to-date events listing, go to http://4h.msue.msu.edu/events.

4-H

scholarships

available

Outstanding Michigan 4-H

members who are

involved at county,

regional, state, national or

international levels are

eligible to apply for

Michigan 4-H

scholarships to help fund

their college experience.

A number of scholarship

opportunities exist,

ranging in value from

$500 to $10,000 (over the

course of four years). All

applications are due by

November 1.

Learn more and access

applications materials at:

www.canr.msu.edu/4_h_

scholarships_and_recog

nition_program/4_h_sch

olarships

8 STATEWIDE NEWS AREA

.

Michigan 4-H Volunteer Reminders

Welcome to the 2021-22 4-H program year! As a reminder, all Michigan 4-H volunteers are required to

complete annual tasks in Volunteer Central to remain active as an MSU Extension volunteer. These

steps include authorizing MSU Extension to conduct the background checks and completing the

Volunteer Code of Conduct/Media/Medical Agreement. The date required for this action is based on

the date in which you completed this step last year and varies by person. However, a large portion of

Michigan 4-H volunteers have their dates cycle at the start of the program year (September 1).

If you are curious when you completed this step last, you may login to Volunteer Central at https://

msu.samaritan.com/custom/502/volunteer_login and view the date on your dashboard under

Acknowledgements and Background Checks. The Volunteer Central system will also alert you via

email when you need to complete this important step; the email will come from

system@ecemail.samaritan.com and the subject line will read “Annual Background Check and

Volunteer Code of Conduct Due.” The email will provide you a direct link to the login page and let you

quickly complete this authorization. You will receive the emails requesting you to complete this

important process at 30, 22, 15, 8 and 1 day before they are due. For more information, refer to the MSU

Extension 4-H Volunteer Guide to Re-Enrollment at https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/msu-

extension-4-h-volunteer-guide-to-re-enrollment.

When in Volunteer Central, you may also notice a tab called My Trainings. There are currently four

trainings available that you may wish to view to learn more about MSU Extension, 4-H, Working with

Youth and Communicating with Conflict. These modules provide new volunteers with a solid

foundation and offer returning volunteers the opportunity to refresh their knowledge about these

topics and serve as a baseline for future trainings. Please make sure that you have also enrolled in

4-H Online as a 4-H volunteer if you are a Gold Volunteer. Thank you for being a part of the Michigan

4-H program.

National 4-H Week to be celebrated Oct. 3 - 9

For the 79th consecutive year, millions of youth, parents, volunteers and

alumni across the country will celebrate National 4-H Week from October 3-9.

During the 2021 National 4-H Week, Michigan 4-H is encouraging 4-H youth,

volunteers, staff and supporters to get out and find their spark – the theme of

this year’s celebration.

From empowering youth to pursue their passions to learning new skills, this October is a perfect time

to help the next generation explore what interests and excites them. One easy way to do this is by

sharing how 4-H helped you or your kids find your spark on social media channels and with

individuals in your community.

Michigan 4-H Alumni & Supporters Fall Team Walking Challenge

In honor of National 4-H Week, the MSU Extension 4-H Alumni Engagement Committee is hosting a

fun engagement opportunity for alumni and supporters! Starting October 3, MSU Extension will host a

4-H Alumni & Supporters Fall Team Walking Challenge, where participants will create teams of five

Support 4-H with

the Tractor

Supply Co. Paper

Clover Campaign

Tractor Supply Company

(TSC) customers across

the nation will have the

opportunity to support 4-H

youth by purchasing a $1

clover at checkouts when

shopping both in stores or

online at

www.TractorSupply.com

from Oct. 6-17.

Funds raised will support

county, state and national

4-H programming. To

learn more regarding the

campaign, visit https://

www.tractorsupply.com/

tsc/cms/4h.