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 30, 2008
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
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
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
Sunday, August 31, 2008
August Update
We are….PENN STATE!!!!!
I am pleased to let everyone know, I survived my first week of college!!! These past few weeks have been super busy.
First, at the beginning of August, we all gathered here on campus for State Achievement Days! Congratulations to all participants on another great event!! I enjoyed all of our State Council activities and time spent with my team, it was fun. After leaving to go home with my county, our bus broke down!! We spent at least two hours waiting for another bus to come to the rescue!
When I got home…finally…it was time to start getting ready for the county fair. The Somerset County Fair was held Aug 16-23. It was another difficult week for me because it was the end of my reign as 2007 Fair Queen. The contest went well…I was too stubborn to cry during my speech. I also showed a lamb and a steer this year. I had a lot of fun showing my steer in the showmanship class and learned a lot more this year. The best part of the week was spending time with my friends from past fairs and 4-H. In between all the preparation for fair, I also packed for college. I moved in this past Saturday. It was so hard to say goodbye to everyone since it will be a while until I see them. So now I’m here in State College, rushing around to classes and trying to get my work completed.
Here at school, I am in the college of Agricultural Sciences. Currently, I am considering an animal science degree with the business management option. Yesterday, we had an exciting day as new students with a field trip to several farms/facilities. My favorite was a nearby wildlife refuge where they have all types of exotic animals.
I never really pictured myself attending school here, studying to work in the agriculture industry. I am so thankful for my 4-H involvement because it was my initial exposure to animal sciences. It makes this experience so much better. Plus, I haven’t been lost yet thanks to all those years attending State Days!!!
In closing, I hope everyone is off to a great start back to school! Meanwhile, I’ll be studying or enjoying all Penn State has to offer here at University Park!
Forever bleeding green, (but I still had to show some nittany lion spirit!!)
Danielle Shaffer
PS4-HC President
I am pleased to let everyone know, I survived my first week of college!!! These past few weeks have been super busy.
First, at the beginning of August, we all gathered here on campus for State Achievement Days! Congratulations to all participants on another great event!! I enjoyed all of our State Council activities and time spent with my team, it was fun. After leaving to go home with my county, our bus broke down!! We spent at least two hours waiting for another bus to come to the rescue!
When I got home…finally…it was time to start getting ready for the county fair. The Somerset County Fair was held Aug 16-23. It was another difficult week for me because it was the end of my reign as 2007 Fair Queen. The contest went well…I was too stubborn to cry during my speech. I also showed a lamb and a steer this year. I had a lot of fun showing my steer in the showmanship class and learned a lot more this year. The best part of the week was spending time with my friends from past fairs and 4-H. In between all the preparation for fair, I also packed for college. I moved in this past Saturday. It was so hard to say goodbye to everyone since it will be a while until I see them. So now I’m here in State College, rushing around to classes and trying to get my work completed.
Here at school, I am in the college of Agricultural Sciences. Currently, I am considering an animal science degree with the business management option. Yesterday, we had an exciting day as new students with a field trip to several farms/facilities. My favorite was a nearby wildlife refuge where they have all types of exotic animals.
I never really pictured myself attending school here, studying to work in the agriculture industry. I am so thankful for my 4-H involvement because it was my initial exposure to animal sciences. It makes this experience so much better. Plus, I haven’t been lost yet thanks to all those years attending State Days!!!
In closing, I hope everyone is off to a great start back to school! Meanwhile, I’ll be studying or enjoying all Penn State has to offer here at University Park!
Forever bleeding green, (but I still had to show some nittany lion spirit!!)
Danielle Shaffer
PS4-HC President
Saturday, August 2, 2008
July Blog
In the past month the county council hosted our annual pet show. The pet show was open to three to fourteen year olds and any type of pet was allowed. There were several classes including: dogs, cats, barnyard animals, and water animals. Categories included obedience, costume, and appearance. The obedience show incorporated the sit and stay, heal, figure eight and finish commands. One of the contestants was a four-year-old boy, who had a pet Labrador who when commanded to sit, could stare directly into his owners eyes. The costume show received a great turnout of seventeen entries. The finalist was a young girl and her dog Benji. The girl was dressed as a catsup bottle, and the dog, a Chihuahua was dressed as a hot dog. The second place winner was another young girl dressed as Dorothy from "The Wizard of Oz" and her dog as Toto. I had a great time organizing the children and their treasured pets. PS: Keep collecting those pop tabs.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Hey fellow 4-hers
I'm so excited to see everyone at State Days!! I have been so busy it's not even funny.My fellow council members and I have some pretty neat stuff ready for State Days.!!! We also have been working really hard and trying to enjoy our summer!! Atleast I know i have its been crazy my county fair was last week and I'm still trying to get everything cleaned up and recover from that!!
Well can't wait to see you in State College!!
Your secretary
Rachel Gruver
I'm so excited to see everyone at State Days!! I have been so busy it's not even funny.My fellow council members and I have some pretty neat stuff ready for State Days.!!! We also have been working really hard and trying to enjoy our summer!! Atleast I know i have its been crazy my county fair was last week and I'm still trying to get everything cleaned up and recover from that!!
Well can't wait to see you in State College!!
Your secretary
Rachel Gruver
Thursday, July 31, 2008
hello 4-H members
Howdy 4-Hers,
This month has been a very busy one for me. I have contacted two groups to be sponsors for our upcoming State Leadership Conference. I have also been in Florida competing on the National teem for the state of Pennsylvania in a club called Family Career and Community Leaders of America. This club is from my school and I competed in a public speaking event on how to keep students active and healthy. I received a bronze medal in the senior event. I attended the Lycoming County Fair on July 18th to receive a scholarship and I wore my State Officer Shirt to help promote 4-H. While at the fair I was asked about State Council and what we do while a member on council and of my experiences in 4-H. I entered a display on being a Council member, what it entails and how to become one. In August my display will be at the Union County fair for other people to look at and maybe coming to other fairs around my area also. During the week of July 21st to 25th I volunteered at Lycoming College for their Lyco for kids event. I had the chance to help kids with the different projects in the class. From a volcano to finding leaves for a tee shirt to making name tags. This experience was very awarding and helpful. July 26th was my 4-H round up for horses. After one long day I received first in all my classes. Well it was easy for the judge since I was the only one in my class. I am now waiting for Districts which is August 16th. Whew, After all this i have been working on my skit, podcast and opening script for State Days,. It has been a challenge trying to get everything done. I do hope you all chose to attend State Days and have the chance to meet members from all over Pennsylvania.
Until Next time,
Justine Bush
Vice President of Operations
This month has been a very busy one for me. I have contacted two groups to be sponsors for our upcoming State Leadership Conference. I have also been in Florida competing on the National teem for the state of Pennsylvania in a club called Family Career and Community Leaders of America. This club is from my school and I competed in a public speaking event on how to keep students active and healthy. I received a bronze medal in the senior event. I attended the Lycoming County Fair on July 18th to receive a scholarship and I wore my State Officer Shirt to help promote 4-H. While at the fair I was asked about State Council and what we do while a member on council and of my experiences in 4-H. I entered a display on being a Council member, what it entails and how to become one. In August my display will be at the Union County fair for other people to look at and maybe coming to other fairs around my area also. During the week of July 21st to 25th I volunteered at Lycoming College for their Lyco for kids event. I had the chance to help kids with the different projects in the class. From a volcano to finding leaves for a tee shirt to making name tags. This experience was very awarding and helpful. July 26th was my 4-H round up for horses. After one long day I received first in all my classes. Well it was easy for the judge since I was the only one in my class. I am now waiting for Districts which is August 16th. Whew, After all this i have been working on my skit, podcast and opening script for State Days,. It has been a challenge trying to get everything done. I do hope you all chose to attend State Days and have the chance to meet members from all over Pennsylvania.
Until Next time,
Justine Bush
Vice President of Operations
So Long Summer
WOW!!! Where has summer gone? It seems like it was just a few days ago that I sat down and did my "beginning of summer" blog.
Just think, State Days are only about a week away! Being on state council has afforded me so many opportunities this year. I was asked to be camp counselor for Westmoreland County Day camp. Fortunately, it was in the middle of other commitments, so I was able to do it! After committing, I discovered that on the last day of camp, everyone gets the chance to canoe down the river! Of course I was super pumped for that day, because canoeing is something I like to do, but don't get much of a chance. However, if you asked me how I felt about canoeing when I got home, you would here a completely different attitude. I actually had to get out and push! It definitely was not my favorite part of day camp!!
And I know that summer is coming to a close as I prepare for our Westmoreland County Fair. Our fair is always the very last thing we do in summer, then school starts the next week. I am getting my dogs ready with some last minute work. I have gathered up my gown that I made for submission. The most exciting thing is that I got nominated to run for the Westmoreland Fair Queen, so I have been preparing essays and speeches for the week.
See you all at State Days!
Emily Gabriel
Just think, State Days are only about a week away! Being on state council has afforded me so many opportunities this year. I was asked to be camp counselor for Westmoreland County Day camp. Fortunately, it was in the middle of other commitments, so I was able to do it! After committing, I discovered that on the last day of camp, everyone gets the chance to canoe down the river! Of course I was super pumped for that day, because canoeing is something I like to do, but don't get much of a chance. However, if you asked me how I felt about canoeing when I got home, you would here a completely different attitude. I actually had to get out and push! It definitely was not my favorite part of day camp!!
And I know that summer is coming to a close as I prepare for our Westmoreland County Fair. Our fair is always the very last thing we do in summer, then school starts the next week. I am getting my dogs ready with some last minute work. I have gathered up my gown that I made for submission. The most exciting thing is that I got nominated to run for the Westmoreland Fair Queen, so I have been preparing essays and speeches for the week.
See you all at State Days!
Emily Gabriel
Friday, July 25, 2008
Exchange Trip Update
Hey fellow 4-H’ers!
I hope everyone’s summer is going great—It’s hard to believe is almost over! One of the highlights of summer in Somerset County is the 4-H Interstate Exchange Trip. For many years our county has hosted and traveled to states across the country through this program. (The first year you travel the next you host or vise versa) I participated in an exchange with Dickinson County Kansas in 2006-2007. It was a great learning experience. While in Kansas, we visited places that helped us learn about their state’s history, industry, geography (not all of Kansas is flat), government and of course, 4-H program. The trip also helped us form lasting personal relationships and gave us experience traveling so far from home for so long (without our parents).
This summer, the tradition continued as Somerset County hosted Thurston County, Washington on June 24 to July 1. After arrival in Pittsburgh, delegates traveled to Somerset for an ice cream party and “get acquainted” games. The next morning, everyone expanded their knowledge and understanding of one of PA’s greatest industries by touring a local dairy farm. Next, the group visited some Amish shops where they could witness the production of leather goods and tasty candies including my favorite: Maple Products! The evening concluded with a dance and picnic.
Thursday, the 4-H’ers and chaperones departed for Gettysburg. After a long bus ride, they toured the battlefields and stopped at the visitor’s center. Later that night, everyone went on a “Ghost Tour” of the town. Friday consisted of a tour of the Mason Dixon Farm nearby and fun adventures in Hershey Park.
The next day, delegates visited the Flight 93 Temporary Memorial and Seven Springs Mountain Resort. Sunday was a “Family Day” and my family chose to spend it at the lake. My sister and the girl staying with her relaxed and went swimming as well as went to visit some local places like the covered bridge in our township.
Finally, Monday was all about Somerset County! The day began by exploring one of our most important industries: coal mining. First stop was to a strip cut mine were participants learned about the techniques used such as the massive dragline on site. Next, everyone headed to the Quecreek Mine Rescue site to hear the story of what happened hundreds of feet underneath them. (In 2002, an accident occurred when the crew broke through into a old abandoned mine filled with water, trapping the 9 men in the high point of the flooded mine for days. A shaft was painstakingly drilled and all were lifted to safety). After meeting some of the men, members hit the road again to travel into town where they received a brief history of the area at a local bank. Finally, a picnic and slide show finished the week.
Next summer, the group will reunite when Somerset County 4-H members fly out to Washington.
Exchange Trip is definitely a favorite 4-H memory of mine and I was excited to participate again in some of the family events again this year. It is very educational and extremely fun! I am a great supporter of this program and hope that fro years into the future youth will travel to the “land of milk and maple” for the Interstate Exchange Trip. I would love to hear about trips other counties are participating or recently participated in! Leave a comment! Also, as fair season quickly approaches—I know there are many preparing. I wish you all the best!
Yours in green,
Danielle Shaffer
PS4-HC President
I hope everyone’s summer is going great—It’s hard to believe is almost over! One of the highlights of summer in Somerset County is the 4-H Interstate Exchange Trip. For many years our county has hosted and traveled to states across the country through this program. (The first year you travel the next you host or vise versa) I participated in an exchange with Dickinson County Kansas in 2006-2007. It was a great learning experience. While in Kansas, we visited places that helped us learn about their state’s history, industry, geography (not all of Kansas is flat), government and of course, 4-H program. The trip also helped us form lasting personal relationships and gave us experience traveling so far from home for so long (without our parents).
This summer, the tradition continued as Somerset County hosted Thurston County, Washington on June 24 to July 1. After arrival in Pittsburgh, delegates traveled to Somerset for an ice cream party and “get acquainted” games. The next morning, everyone expanded their knowledge and understanding of one of PA’s greatest industries by touring a local dairy farm. Next, the group visited some Amish shops where they could witness the production of leather goods and tasty candies including my favorite: Maple Products! The evening concluded with a dance and picnic.
Thursday, the 4-H’ers and chaperones departed for Gettysburg. After a long bus ride, they toured the battlefields and stopped at the visitor’s center. Later that night, everyone went on a “Ghost Tour” of the town. Friday consisted of a tour of the Mason Dixon Farm nearby and fun adventures in Hershey Park.
The next day, delegates visited the Flight 93 Temporary Memorial and Seven Springs Mountain Resort. Sunday was a “Family Day” and my family chose to spend it at the lake. My sister and the girl staying with her relaxed and went swimming as well as went to visit some local places like the covered bridge in our township.
Finally, Monday was all about Somerset County! The day began by exploring one of our most important industries: coal mining. First stop was to a strip cut mine were participants learned about the techniques used such as the massive dragline on site. Next, everyone headed to the Quecreek Mine Rescue site to hear the story of what happened hundreds of feet underneath them. (In 2002, an accident occurred when the crew broke through into a old abandoned mine filled with water, trapping the 9 men in the high point of the flooded mine for days. A shaft was painstakingly drilled and all were lifted to safety). After meeting some of the men, members hit the road again to travel into town where they received a brief history of the area at a local bank. Finally, a picnic and slide show finished the week.
Next summer, the group will reunite when Somerset County 4-H members fly out to Washington.
Exchange Trip is definitely a favorite 4-H memory of mine and I was excited to participate again in some of the family events again this year. It is very educational and extremely fun! I am a great supporter of this program and hope that fro years into the future youth will travel to the “land of milk and maple” for the Interstate Exchange Trip. I would love to hear about trips other counties are participating or recently participated in! Leave a comment! Also, as fair season quickly approaches—I know there are many preparing. I wish you all the best!
Yours in green,
Danielle Shaffer
PS4-HC President
Monday, June 30, 2008
Keeping Busy and Making Friends in 4-H
About a third of summer is gone, but don't fret. It just means that you need to get out there, and do more 4-H activities. Keep your eyes and ears open for anything that sounds fun and interesting! Don't be afraid to go to the new club meeting. I promise it will only lead to you making new friends and having more fun!
This past month I've been extremely busy with 4-H. I was a camp counselor for the Southwest Regional Camp. To prepare for that, I had to attend a day-long training session, to be ready for any camp situations that might arise. This also gave me the opportunity to get to know the several new counselors, and make new friends. It was an awesome week! The camp's theme was the Olympics. We had workshops on sports, staying healthy and smart drinks. One of my favorite activities, along with most of the campers, was having our own Olympics. All the campers got to take part in "real" events in our recreation field. As the end of camp gets near, most of us were ready to go home, but I miss all my friends, new and old, and start thinking about the memories and experience, as soon as I start unpacking.
I was also very busy all month, working on my sewing project, for the Southwest Pennsylvania Fashion Review. I made a gown, which I will wear for my Christmas dance. I had to have it finished June 17th to get the registration forms in on time, which had to include a picture of me wearing my project. Unfortunately for me, the final few days were during the Regional camp, so I had to be done even earlier. In the end, everything ended up working out. I took second place, which I was very proud of, because my project ended up being much more difficult than I expected.
Keep looking for more!
Emily Gabriel
This past month I've been extremely busy with 4-H. I was a camp counselor for the Southwest Regional Camp. To prepare for that, I had to attend a day-long training session, to be ready for any camp situations that might arise. This also gave me the opportunity to get to know the several new counselors, and make new friends. It was an awesome week! The camp's theme was the Olympics. We had workshops on sports, staying healthy and smart drinks. One of my favorite activities, along with most of the campers, was having our own Olympics. All the campers got to take part in "real" events in our recreation field. As the end of camp gets near, most of us were ready to go home, but I miss all my friends, new and old, and start thinking about the memories and experience, as soon as I start unpacking.
I was also very busy all month, working on my sewing project, for the Southwest Pennsylvania Fashion Review. I made a gown, which I will wear for my Christmas dance. I had to have it finished June 17th to get the registration forms in on time, which had to include a picture of me wearing my project. Unfortunately for me, the final few days were during the Regional camp, so I had to be done even earlier. In the end, everything ended up working out. I took second place, which I was very proud of, because my project ended up being much more difficult than I expected.
Keep looking for more!
Emily Gabriel
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