Tuesday, September 30, 2008

September Happenings

Greetings from Penn State!!!

Here on campus, I feel like the biggest difference from home is the faster pace of life. I was always busy at home, but I still can’t believe how quickly September has gone by! This month has had very many exciting things going on in the 4-H program. This past weekend the first donor tailgate was held before the Penn State football game. I was awarded the opportunity to meet with 4-H alumni and donors. The event signified the beginning of the Keystone Society, an organization of 4-H donors. The gifts they provide will benefit 4-H in the form of an endowment. The event included delicious food, music, and of course college football on a large screen. I enjoyed chatting with everyone about the impact of 4-H in my life and the struggles and successes I have experienced so far as a freshman at college. It was great to hear their stories as well.

In other interesting news, I was watching TV this week when I learned about an initiative of some other 4-H alumni. Various country music stars have teamed up with National 4-H to produce a new CD entitled Clover Country: Songs from Famous 4-H Alumni. Proceeds from the sale of these will be used to support 4-H as well. For more info, visit www.clovercountrycd.com.

So many people work so hard to ensure the success of 4-H now and in the years to come. Thank you for all your hard work!!! At the county level, make sure you let your local sponsors know how much their generosity means too! The lessons we learn in 4-H are something that stays with you always.


Happy fall everyone! (and football season too!)

Danielle Shaffer
PS4-HC President

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Back to the Basics

Oh my! Where, oh where has my summer gone?! August literally flew by. The first week was spent at State College for a new and great experience-State Days. It was a blast; my favorite part had to be our opening skit. I just love being the center of attention. : )

As soon as I got back home, I was doing final prep for my county’s fair queen contest and packing. I decided to opt out of my family vacation to the beach and stay with my aunt, so I could have the amazing opportunity to run for fair queen. (The interview portion was the third day of my family’s trip.) I think I did very well at the interview. During the live part of the competition, I gave a great speech about “Why you should come to my fair”. Everyone said the speech was awesome, but unfortunately didn’t make top four. I always have next year!

Then, out of nowhere was my fair week. It went great! I took two firsts, a third, and a fifth with my rabbits. In sewing, I got a second on my gown I made, and little clutch to go with it. Then, on Friday, I spent most of the day preparing my pooches for the big dog show. Both of my dogs did very well. My little sister showed our younger pup, Harley, and shocked everyone when she placed second in showmanship!! My dog, Scrappy Doo, and I did very well placing in every event from dress up to obedience. I even tried a new class this year, brace, which involved both of my dogs. We did okay, and actually ended up winning a first place ribbon. Overall my fair week was…excellent. It was a great way to finish off the summer!

Now I’m back to school and very busy with field hockey practice and games everyday, plus keeping up those grades and working on the weekends. I’m not sure how I even find time to have fun, but I do. So as we all get back into the school groove, remember to have fun and do your best.

Check back for some updates.
Emily Gabriel

hello 4-H members

Hello 4-Hers,

This month has been busy for me. Not with just 4-H events but with college things also. During August 3-7 State Council had a meeting and then State Achievement Days. Members had a lot of fun with opening skit, there contest and with the awards. The Union County Fair was from August 3-9th. During this week I had a display on What is State Council, to help show members ages 16 and older how they can become involved at the State level. I had my district horse show on August 16th, but I did not make it on to the State show. August 19th I attended Ag Progress Days, where I wore my shirt and helped to promote 4-H. Also some of the State Council met with Mr. Eckel who is a donor to 4-H. My summer came to an end on August 22nd when I moved into college and started my college classes. It’s been one week at college and it is very different. As you go back to school, keep up with the different 4-H events going on and State Council hopes to see you at the State Leadership Conference January 30, 31 and February 1st.

Until next time

Justine Bush