Blissfully Natural Cora

What is it ?

2012-01-24T10:10:00.000-08:00

Skillathon Tools Practice#1

Idaho State Skillathon Contest 2012

2012-01-23T12:25:00.000-08:00

The winners of the first ever Idaho State Skill-a-thon goes to Ada County their team will be going to Kentucky.
Congratulation Ada County.
The Second Place team Was from Gooding County.

Gooding County


Gooding County I will post the winning County in the Jr. division when I find out the who won.

My 2012 Trip To The Western National Roundup

2012-01-12T10:39:00.000-08:00

First I would like to thank all my sponsors; without your support my trip would not have been possible, THANK YOU.
I would not like to say Congratulations to all the Winners in each of the competitions you all did an out standing job; and it was my pleasure to meet all of you.
To all of you who worked so hard to make the Leadership Across America Western National Roundup possible THANK YOU. I had a great time, learned a lot and I hope to make it back next year.
To all my Family and Friends thank you for being there for me.
To all my reader I would like to say if you ever get the chance to go to a National competition Go! The experience will make you stronger and more self confident in every part of your life.
There were 962 of the best, brightest, most determined and dedicated 4-H and FFA members from 35 States and Canada at this year Western National Roundup.
Needless to say I did have a great time; the workshops put on by Brand Lee White were outstanding, the food was great and the competition was extremely tough. I competed in the National Original Speech contest and place 4th and in the National Fashion Revue and placed 5th I received a ribbon for both. I can not wait to compete at this level again.
Now about the FUN during this event there was a pin swap, a dance, dinners, and workshops, as well as you had free time to enjoy National Western Stock Show and all that Denver has to offer.

State Photo

National Speech 4th place and National Fashion Revue 5th

My sponsors

This was the best I loved seeing all the action

Had a great time at the National Western Stock show

Style Revue

Girls just want to have fun

I had a great time

My Blog Crashed!

2011-12-31T08:22:00.000-08:00

Well it HAPPENS ! There was a problem and my blog crashed and I lost almost every thing; With the help of my mom I am working on rebuilding my blog. This will take some time sorry for the inconvenience.

2011-12-29T07:27:00.000-08:00

Marie Retires after 23 years

2011-10-11T09:51:00.000-07:00

How many time have we all in the Gooding County 4-H program stood next to Marie and shook her hand as she gave a an award of some kind? If you were not at the Year End Awards Banquet on October 9th 2011 you may not be aware that Marie officially announced her retirement. Marie's last day will be November 11, 2011.

I know that I will see her around the fair and at different events; but The extension office will seem so empty with out her smile, help, and positive words of encouragement.

Thank You for 23 years of Dedication

Marie Gooding County 4-H Coordinator 1988 to 2011

Beef Documentary

2011-09-27T09:55:00.000-07:00

2011 Gooding County Fair is now in the Record Book

2011-08-27T12:36:00.000-07:00

Fair week was long and it was very hot but I lived though it
here is how I did.
Best First Year Leadership Project,
Top Intermediate/Senior Clothing Project Model,
Top Public Speaking Presentation,
Grand Champion Showmanship Horse (Trophy),
Top Intermediate Horse Showmanship Trophy ,
Top Intermediate horse Record Book Plaque,
4-H Cart Class First Place.
Intermediate Beef- Reserve Champion Showmanship, and placed 4th over all.
Master Showman Participant and placed 5th over all,
Heifer placed 1st in her breed (Red Angus) and was Reserve Champion ,
All three steers received blue ribbons in Quality.
Purple Rosette for my Quit, blue for my sewing project, blue for my leather project,
3rd place Intermediate Livestock judging,
My steer Velvet won top Gaining market beef Trophy with a 4.03 pounds per day gain.

2011 Gooding County Style Revue

2011-08-13T11:15:00.000-07:00

My sewing project (a tailored fully lined Jacket)

a sewing project

sewing project


Sewing project

Clover bud

Sewing project

Modeling Projects

The 2011 Gooding County Fair Events has started. Here are the pictures from the Style Revue.

Well it is Almost Fair Time

2011-07-17T10:42:00.000-07:00

It is almost fair time and the dreaded book fight. I hope that you all stated your books at the beginning of your 4-H projects and have been keeping them up to date; if not you are most likely pulling your hair out trying to remember dates and all the activities you have done.

For those of you who stated your books at the beginning of the project congratulations you now know how easy it makes you life and projects.

I am adding the finishing points and dates to my own books and finishing up a few projects. This year was a great learning experience for me.

I truly hope you learned as much of from your Projects as I did from mine; good luck at your fairs.

Hot and Dry with a Chance of Rain; and Busy!

2011-06-28T09:19:00.000-07:00

It is hot and dry here; my steers and heifer are all doing well, I am going out at least once a day to rinse them off to try to keep them cool. My dad has almost got all our hay baled and hopefully be stacked today.

Boy have I been busy! I have been to Lamb camp and learned to show sheep, to the Idaho Jr. Beef Expo in Twin Falls and showed Fabio and Lady, and Western Heritage Days and drove Tiny in the 4-H driving contest and Parade. Next week I will have my Heifer bred and attend the Southern Idaho Livestock Judging Camp and Contest; and in between all this I will be completing my quilt and sewing.


Me and Lady at the Idaho Jr. Beef Expo

Here are a few pictures of what has been
happening with my 4-H adventures.

Me and Fabio I am so glad he behaved nicely!

Western Heritage Days

Western Heritage Days Parade

Western Heritage Days 4-H Driving Contest

Have to go I still have five more days of school will at the Lamb camps pictures later, Have a great day.

Life In The Show Ring!

2011-06-02T06:59:00.000-07:00

On May 28^th I enter my steer Fabio and my heifer Lady in the Magic Valley Jr. Classic.

When I go to these shows, I have hopes of winning I guess we all what to win; but I also go for the learning experience. This year the quality of showmanship was out standing, the fitting and groomers were great, and all the cattle were fluff and fabulous.

To those who won Congratulation! You all did an outstanding job.

I knew from the time that Fabio stepped out to the trailer that I was at the Classic for the learning experience; his eyes got big and his head went up.

I had worked with him and all my other steers everyday and in the pen they all behaved great; Fabio does not have a mean bone in is body, but he is a little set in his ways and nerves. It was the noise, the strange environment, and people, that affected him, he just did not what to be there. I even thought about not showing him, but thanks to Mr. Hooper; Fabio did enter the show ring, he did not setup and behaved badly. Fabio and I lived through it.

The lesson that Fabio learned was that no matter how he acts he would be shown; the lesson I learned is that I can handle my steers even when they act like spoiled fit throwing brats; (you must call your steers bluff).

Mr. Hooper gave me a tip on how to correct Fabio’s behavior, and with his knowledge and experience with show cattle; I know that I will be able to take the brat out of Fabio. I am going to give it my best effort and we will see what happens at the next show. I am also going to use this tip on all my steers just to be on the safe side.

Check back and I will let you know how it goes and fill you in on the tip after a few weeks.

Fabio has never acted as he did at the Classic; so no matter how calm and well behaved your steers act at home does not mean that they will be that way in a strange environment.

Take your steers to a show or two for the learning experience. Maybe you will even come home with a ribbon or two.

As for Lady; I did not place but she was very well behaved.

Beef Cattle and the Quest for Knowledge (Beef Production Medicine and Management)

2011-05-19T10:01:00.000-07:00

I love to read; everyone who has visited my blog knows that I truly believe that knowledge is power.

While on this quest for knowledge; last week I had a book dropped in my lap that I have not put down.

The title of this book is BEEF Production Medicine and Management; in section A; you can read about Anatomy, Biosecurity, Body condition Scoring, Nutrition, Normal ranges for temperature, heart and resporatory rates, showing junior livestock, prescription and non-prescription drug guidelines and the list goes on this is just section A.
Section B - Routine Observation and Procedures.
Section C - Vaccines and Parasite Control Products.
Section D - Tests and Diagnostics.
Section E - Flowcharts for Specific Symptoms.
Section F - Infectious Diseases, Problems and Treatment.

If you are in 4-H, FFA, or a cattle producer this is a book you should own. I have to return this one soon, but I have order my own and it will be here soon.

this book is a Animal Health Publications you can order it on line or call 1-877-424-7838.

There is also manuals for;
Dogs and Cats
Horses
Sheep and Goats
Beef and Dairy

I think the next one that I will get will be the one for Horses. before I am done I hope to own all of them because my animal never seem to get sick on a week days.

Follow the links and check it out for yourself; KNOWLEDGE IS POWER.

The Old Pioneer Cemetery (Teen Leadership Community Service Project)

2011-05-02T08:47:00.000-07:00

Idaho is a filled with history; some of the early Pioneers are quite famous and will live forever in history books. My community service project is not about the famous pioneers; it is about the many men, women, and children who left their homes, and died in the process of building our State.

Picking a community service project is never an easy task; so when I decided to organize one for my 4-H teen leadership project, the biggest fears I had was what if no one shows up to help, the out of pocket expense, and completing it in a timely fashion.

I would like to say that I thought of this project on my own; but that would not be true. The Old Pioneer Cemetery in Hagerman Idaho was written about last year in a local News Paper and it was one of the community service projects that my 4-H leader ( Helen Ruby) but on the table for my club (Hodge Podgers 4-H club) to do in 2010.

Before I started I went to the Old Pioneer Cemetery and took a look to see what needed to be done; there was downed trees, weeds, and all that was needed was tender loving care .These are the before pictures

This was a Project that if no one show up to help that my club could do alone and if needed I could do myself.

I had to get permission to do the work, the phone calls started, first I called the City of Hagerman; and got the OK. The planing stated; completion date for this project was April 30th 2011. After talking to Mac he agreed to have it mowed for me. The mowing was a big help it was really over grown( thanks Mac). Now I needed permission from my County 4-H office to get donations to keep expenses down; once I got the OK and papers needed from Marie; and had all my ducks and paper work in a row.

I presented the project to the Hodge Podgers 4-H club on March 27th 2011 as the club community service project it was voted in

In the weeks before the completion date I needed supplies, weed killer, flowers, drinks and food for all who volunteered.

My first stop was D&B Supply in Jerome; for weed killer. D&B donated the Round-up and 24 native perennials. Time was a factor with the Roundup so I went from D&B right to the Old Pioneer Cemetery to spay the weeds along the fence line and under the sign where the flowers were to be planted.

In the days that lead up to the completion of this project; Plants were donated also by The Valley Country Store in Jerome, and Kelley Garden Center Twin Falls.

When the work was all none My volunteers enjoyed Coke, water and Pizza

The Drinks were donated my Swire CoCa-Cola in Twin Falls, and the Pizza was supplied by PaPa Kelsey's in Hagerman.

Raking up all the dead weeds

I would like to Thank D&B Supply in Jerome,Valley Country Store in Jerome,Kelley Garden Center in Twin Falls, Swire CoCa-Cola in Twin Falls, and PaPa Kelseys In Hagerman for all your help and support with this project. Your generous donations made this project a success;
THANK YOU.

Clearing out the old dead trees.

clearing dead trees

Planting flowers

almost done planting all the flowers

getting water for all the plants

Project is complete

Also I would like to thank all who came out to help and my 4-H Leader Helen Ruby, and all the Parents who gave up their time to help.
Also like to thank Hannah for bring the chocolate chip cookies

after all the work was done

I will make use to water these plants

A CoCa-Cola and cookie break

Thanks for the Coke and Pizza

2nd Annual CSI Livestock Judging Contest

2011-04-11T08:06:00.000-07:00

The 2nd Annuals CSI Livestock Judging Contest held April 6th 2011 was the best ever. Teams came from Montana, Orgeon, Navada, and Idaho, all the teams did a great job.

The Team that out shined all the others was the Montana's Big Timmber 4-H team.

I will post all the winning teams when I get a copy of the score sheets.
For now here are some pictures of the event.

Sign-in


CSI Judging Team working the sign-in desk


1st place junior 4-H team

2nd place junior team

Meet my 2011 Steers

2011-03-29T16:15:00.000-07:00

Well it is still raining here and it seems that the mud just keeps getting deeper. Just the other day we had wind, rain, snow, freezing rain and by the end of the day we had blue sky's and sunshine. Maybe that is the first sign of spring.

Weigh-in for my county has come and gone so here is a look at my 2011 Market Beef Project .

My steer for 2011 are all different weights and frame styles this year; I am hoping that they don't all fall into the same weight class when our Fair rolls around.

As you can see all three are a little muddy; but they are healthy, happy, and they love to eat.
When the rain stops my steers will get their first bath, I am hoping it will be this weekend. So for now I just wait.

Just a reminder; with wet cold and changing weather that in a blink of an eye your animals can get sick so keep a close eye on them and watch for illness.

How is The Weather!

2011-02-03T10:25:00.000-08:00

   Well how is your Winter going? I sure do wish Spring would get here.
My Steers are leading now. If it would warm up and melt all the snow and ice; I would be working on my show-ring skill and setting them up.
    I hope all of you are getting a break from the snow storms and will be getting some nice sunshine soon.
    Just six more week of winter I hope; stay warm and pray for Sunshine.

Sounds like fun

2011-01-11T11:41:00.000-08:00

Pacific Northwest Young Cattlemen Conference

January 21, 2011 – Starts in Pendleton, OR & ends in LaGrande, OR

All those “young at heart” are invited to participate, so there are no age limitations. The conference is a great opportunity for younger members that are back on a family ranch or are considering starting their own operation as well as members who might still be in college who are considering going back to a ranch or looking for a job within the cattle industry. The PNW YCC is a chance to look at the cattle business from many different perspectives and hear from true movers and shakers who are helping to direct the future of our industry.

Click here to register and more information.

Oh Joy MUD !

2010-12-13T10:27:00.000-08:00

How is the weather where you live? The weather here has warmed up and all the snow has turned to mud!

If you have a lot of mud you may want to keep an eye on your steers to make sure there hoofs are in good shape. I do checks everyday when the weather can't seem to make up it's mind.

I have also started some of my FCS projects and hope to have most of them done by spring so that I will have more time for my Market animal projects.

Well my break is over back to school!

Snow, Snow, and more Snow!

2010-11-28T11:58:00.000-08:00

Fall this year lasted about A minute, we have lots of snow, wind, below zero weather and it is only Thanksgiving. So far we have had about one or two feet of snow; but in open acreage of flat ground and the wind blowing all the time it seems like a lot more.

I still have to go out and feed and water my steers and horses; boy it is cold! I still work with my steers at least twice a week no matter what. This is not the fun part of having 4-H steers but it is part of life if you want to be a cattle producer some day.

In weather like this I just make sure to wear the correct clothing; So bundle up and keep working.

I was told that "grand champions are made over the Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks".

REMEMBER "you got to want it to win it"

I had to dig out the water troth.

this drift went from one end of my calf pens to the other; and the water troth was under there somewhere!

I just kept digging until I found it and then had to keep digging so that my steers could get to it!

Can you see the corner of the troth, I kept working for about an hour and got it uncovered.

This could be a long Winter if I have to dig every day!
Here is hoping that the snow melts a little.

What to Look for when Picking Your Steer

2010-11-20T16:27:00.000-08:00

I have been getting a lot of hits looking for the qualities to look for when picking your 4-H steer. So I thought I would tell you what I look for when I pick my steers.
Muscle in the forearm, rib, loin, hip,stifle quarter and a wide base. If your young steer does not show potential in these areas when you buy him there is a very good chance he won't have it when he is finished.
Structure correctness look at the feet, straightness of the legs, and nice straight flat back with spring to the rib.depth of body, uniformity of body depth and chest width.

Now that has been said; you must have a picture of what you are looking for in your head and go into the pen of 75 to 100 head or more of cattle and pick your steer.

The way I do this is to pick 12 to 15 head that fit my list and chose from those; this only takes me about two or three hours; my cattle producer is very good to me.

I think the most important thing to look for is a steer with as many great qualities as possible, and the most important of all is a great disposition because if you can't show them, and you can't touch them, you can't judge them.

So that perfect crazy steer that runs, jumps, puts his head in the air and paws the ground; you run don't walk away from him NO matter how perfect he may look; for he will most likely be crazy in the show ring.

The last tip I will give is to pick what you like, and remember that every judge has their own list of qualities of what he or she looks for in a 4-H show steer and there is know way of knowing what is on their list.

One last thing the Producer knows their cattle so talk to them and always take in consideration everything that they have to say, you are show casing their cattle and their brand is on your steer for all the world to see.

Show your steer with pride and confidence and no matter what the out come you can leave the ring knowing you did your best.
I myself have not had a Grand Champion Steer YET; but I have made it back to the championship round every year.

I do my best and that's all I can do.

Good Luck

There Be Cattle On the Place !

2010-11-01T09:04:00.000-07:00

My vacation is over; and it is time for the new 4-H projects to begin. All my steers are now in their pens and the breaking them to touch and to lead process has started. This time of year is a lot of fun; I love naming my steers. It seems like the weather here can't make up it mind if it whats to be cold or spring like; so I will take advantage of the nice days and get as much done on my market animal project as possible. So let the fun begin!

Good luck with your projects.

Got to Love NinjaJen

2010-10-14T09:32:00.000-07:00

I started thinking about how hard it must be to find an older post on my blog for those of you who visit my blog.
So I ask my mom how we could make it easier for you? My Mom is not a blog building expert but she knows someone who is NinjaJen is that person; so mom went to her blog and looked to see if she has a step by step posting for how to add a search window to my blog, and what do you know she did. Mom added it for me and I listed some of my passed blog titles for you just type part or all of the title in the search window and it will take you to that posting. The search window is on the left side of my blog.
I have a lot more postings you can type in key words and see what pops up.

I hope the search window makes it easier for you to find the information you are looking for. If you have a blog or would like to build one go to the bottom of my blog and there is a link to NinjaJen's blog that is where Mom got all the cool effects that are on my blog.
Thank You Jen and Mom.

2010 Year End Awards Banquet

2010-10-11T12:32:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Awards banquet was filled with smiles, good friends and Great food.

Special THANK YOU to those who worked so hard to make the evening a Success.

College Scholarships

2010-10-01T11:26:00.000-07:00

I am now a Freshman in High School and my Mom never waits to the last minute to do anything; So she went on the hunt for College scholarships this morning. She made a list of different site and saved it so I thought I would share what she found so far. To the right on my blog I added the links to make it easier for you to get there. I hope this helps all who are looking for COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS.

Have a great day and Happy hunting.
Cora

Check back once in a while and I will add more links when Mom finds them

2010 District III Style Revue Contest

2010-09-19T10:26:00.000-07:00

I had a great time at the District Style Revue this year; everyone did a great job. The Style Revue was held at the Wilson Theatre in Rupert Square, Rupert Idaho.
We were scored on; Posture and poise,well groomed appearance, Modeling of Outfit,Garment Presentation, Garment Construction,Pattern appropriate for Model, Fit of Garment, Choice of accessories, Color a Attractive on model, and effect of undergarments.

Thank You to All that work so hard to make the Style Revue A Great Contest and Give so Freely of their Time.

Here are a few pictures of the Contest.

Grading My Market Project Steers ( know what you are eating )

2010-09-16T06:49:00.000-07:00

Today I went to the Bates Custom Butchers and graded my two remaining 4-H steers.

Cindy Kinder the Extension Educator for Gooding County was my teacher.

To grade my beef we measured the size of the rib eye, back fat, and figure the kph fat, and you must have the carcass weight.
These two beef graded prime minus and choice plus. my third beef graded prime plus.

Grades are based on the amount of marbling in the meat and the age of the animal. Marbling is the flecks and streaks of white fat you find distributed throughout the meat. In general, the higher the degree of marbling, the more tender, juicy, and flavorable the meat will be. Higher grade meats come at a higher cost.

Beef is best in flavor and texture when cattle are between 18 and 24 months old, so the grading favors younger animals.

Meat graders assign a yield grade to a carcass by evaluating:

the amount of external fat;
the hot carcass weight;
the amount of kidney, pelvic, and heart fat; and
the area of the ribeye muscle.

There are eight distinct grades of beef recognized by the USDA.

USDA Prime Beef

is the ultimate in tenderness, juiciness, and flavor.

USDA Choice Beef

Choice grade beef has less marbling than Prime, but is still of very high quality. This is the most popular grade of beef because it contains sufficient marbling for taste.
Just over half of the beef graded each your earns a grade of Choice.

USDA Select beef

This is generally a lower priced grade of beef with less marbling than Choice. Select cuts of beef may vary in tenderness and juiciness.

USDA. In order of descending quality they are:

Prime
Choice
Select
Standard
Commercial
Utility
Cutter
Canner

I got all my information from
http://meat.tamu.edu/beefgrading.html
http://www.bbqreport.com/archives/barbecue/2006/03/02/understanding-the-usda-beef-grading-system/
and from
Cindy Kinder Extension Educator for Gooding County

for more information click the links above.

Eastern Idaho State Fair Livestock Judging Contest

2010-09-06T11:25:00.000-07:00

Clipping Your Steers for Begainners

2010-09-06T10:27:00.000-07:00

By No means am I a steer clipping expert; but when I started learning to clip and groom my steers I could not find a place to show me just the basics. So this year one of my goals was to learn to clip and fluff my steers for the show ring and I thought I might share what I learned with you.

This year I had three steers so when my Dad was showing me what he knew my Mom was taking pictures for me to share.

The most important thing you can do long before you start clipping is to wash and blow-dry your steer. Make sure that you comb and blow the hair forward.

Next you will what to apply a styling mousse for steers, and comb it in I use a rice brush to do this. This foam creates a thicker hair coat without matting the hair. Great for training the hair, show day grooming or clipping. Now let the mousse dry.

Clipping the the head, I was told to clip the hair in the direction that the hair lays. Try to not to clip to short; When I did my first head I clipped it to short; if this happens don't worry just spray pink oil on and it won't look so bad. I found that you should clip the head at least six or seven days before the show ( just in case ).
Depending on the style you can leave the hair on the pole of you can remove it. I did both ways this year .
You may want to leave the hair on the pole until you are at the show to see what the style is at that time.

The Brisket is next; when clipping the brisket you clip from the head and neck downward. try not to take off all the hair you what this to be clipped but look natural.

For the hoofs we clip the hair that lays on the hoof to clean them up a little. DO NOT Clip the hair on the legs.

Now that you have just the beginners basics go to the watch and learn and watch the pro's clip and groom.

Red Angus do not have much hair in the summer so there is not much clipping to do; here is Munch he was my highest placing steer and graded prime plus.

this is Pepper my Black Angus.

Remember you are trying to make your steers look the best that you can.

You will always what to follow the rules of the Show, Fair or Association that you are participating in.

2010 Gooding County Fair

2010-08-25T10:51:00.000-07:00

The Gooding County Fair is now in the History Books.
Here are a few of My Awards.

Top Horse Record Book Intermediate - Trophy - (going to District showmanship Shoshone)

Top Gaining 4-H Market Beef - Trophy - with George ( Red Angus).

Best Livestock Judging Project - Blue Ribbon and Purple Rosette.

Showmanship - Blue Ribbon.
Quality - 3 Blue Ribbons

Best Intermediate Ag Presentation - Purple Rosette - ( going to District).

Best Intermediate Clothing Project Model - Blue Ribbon and Purple Rosette
Best Advanced Leather Craft Project - Blue Ribbon and Purple Rosette
Best Sew Wow Western Wear Project - Blue Ribbon and Purple Rosette. (going to district)

Best Money Fundamentals Project - Blue Ribbon and Purple Rosette.

Best Intermediate Poster ( Idaho Beef Check Off ) - Purple Rosette.

Best Safety Poster - Purple Rosette

Best Felting Project - Purple Rosette

Hot water bath canning project - Blue Ribbon

Crochet Project - Blue Ribbon

Now just a few more Pictures of Fair Week

Here are My Steers

George Strait weighed 1443 he gained 575 pounds

Munch weighed 1423 and gained 510 pounds
He is the one That I sold at the Fair.

Pepper weighed 1403 he gained 525 pounds He was my showmanship steer.

Got to Clean the barn

Gooding County Style Revue 2010

2010-08-14T07:08:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from my Day at the Gooding County Style Revue.

First you practice.

This is My Embellishment sewing project

This is my Vintage western shirt and Chinks. The Western Shirt is my sew Wow Sewing project, and the chinks is my leather project.

Our Fair has started and I will post the events when I can.

Thank You 2009 Buyer Farmers National Bank

2010-08-06T08:17:00.000-07:00

This year seemed to have wings and just flew-by and it time for the
2010 GOODING COUNTY FAIR August 16th-21st.

At this time I would like to THANK my 2009 Buyer once again; with out your support I would not be able to continue my education in the Beef Industry.

Thank you so Much Farmer National Bank of Wendel Idaho.

Also Thanks to all of you who add-on and to my family.

My First 4-H Horse Show

2010-07-29T20:06:00.000-07:00

I went to my first 4-H horse show; I think that I did very well,

I took my grandmothers horse Flash; he is just 4 years old. Flash and I are both novice in the horse-showing ring and placed first the intermediate age group.

My cousin Hannah also went and took her horse Custer; This is Hannah’s first year in

4-H and she also did very well. Hannah and Custer placed 3^rd in the junior novice class.

The Moon Creek Ponies 4-H club also did a great job the Club took 4 out of 5 first place ribbons Plus The Grand Champion and the Reserve Champion.

Congratulation

Jessica - The Grand Champion

Jacee - Reserve Champion

Idaho Cattle Association - 2010 Hefier Of The Year Contest Winners

2010-06-22T06:21:00.000-07:00

The winners of the Idaho Cattle Association Heifer Of The Year Contest;

Over all winner - Lauren Clark from Eagle Idaho will receive a registered Angus heifer donated by the Idaho Angus Association. She also wins 10 bags of Pride Plus Show Ration from Western Stockman's, BVD & Pregnancy and Supplies from Bio Tracking LLC and a bag of feed from A&G Irrigation.

Cora Isaacs from Bliss, place second and will receive a $750.00 scholarship from the University of Idaho Steer A Year Program, a custom hat from Jaxonbilt Hat Company and a bag of feed from A&G Irrigation.

Jessica Lancaster from Jerome place third and will receive a $500.00 scholarship from the University of Idaho Steer A Year Program and a bag of feed form A&G Irrigation.

Mackenzie Peace from Meridian place fourth and will receive a $250.00 scholarship from the University of Idaho Steer A Year Program,and a bag of feed from A&G Irrigation.

Jeni Hagler from Meridian place fifth and will receive a $200.00 form Intermountain Community Bank,$25.00 scholarship from Bonners Ferry Vet Clinic and a bag of feed from A&G Irrigation.

Talya Murphy from Kimberly placed sixth and will receive a $50.00 scholarship from Hollingworth Inc., $50 scholarship from Robison Ranch and a bag of feed from A&G Irrigation.

Seth Christensen from Preston, place seventh and will receive a $50.00 scholarship from Fences Idaho and a $50.00 from Lemhi Large Animal Health and a bag of feed from A&G Irrigation.

Congratulations Lauren, and all the winners.

The Magic Valley Jr. Beef Classic

2010-06-08T18:15:00.000-07:00

This was the first time I ever entered a show ring that wasn't 4-H. I was a mess but I tried my hardest not to let it show. I took all three of my steers; lucky for me they were in three different weight class. The hard part was they were one weight class after another, I showed one walked out of the ring handed it off and was handed the next one and walked right back into the ring.

It was a long day, my steer handled great. At the end of the day two of my steers received two second place ribbons and one third place ribbon in quality.
I think I did OK for my first time.

During your 4-H life-time; if you start showing when you are 8 years old you will only be in the show ring 10 times. If each time you enter the show ring, and you are there for 30 minutes you will have only showed for a total of about 300 minutes or 12.5 hours. Over 10 years that is not much time to perfect your showmanship skills. With each time you enter the ring the Judge will give you pointers to how to improve your skills and every Judge is different. My goal is to be grand champion showman and to have a grand champion steer. When you go to different shows you add a year of experience, receive lots of insight how to improve your skill and learn the grooming skills need to enhance the appearance of you steers
.
To have a 4-H Grand Champion Steer or Heifer it is very important to have the showmanship skills to show your steer or heifer at their best.

You , Your Steer, and the Grooming Chute

2010-04-28T17:36:00.000-07:00

The weather here has had its good and bad day's. I hope you have had your steers on a regular feeding schedule, and that your steer is on full feed now and should be gaining at least 3 pounds a day. Your steer should now be touchable and leading should become easier each day hopefully you have been using the show stick each day (rain or shine); Because the real fun is about to begin.

The first thing I would like you to do is make sure your fitting chute is tied down. I know first hand the wreck you can have if it is not and you steer freaks out and takes off with it; your steer can become injured, and at the very least all the hard work you have done will be lost.

Now the fun part; you need to get your steer in the chute; if you have done all the ground work listed above it won't be to hard. If your steer is still a little hard to lead take your time, and add a safety rope tied to something I tie mine safety rope to the post that right next to the chute. Next take the lead rope and run it through the chute and hopefully they walk right in. If your steer does not walk in use the safety rope to get them back up to the chute and start again. Just keep working and talking to them and they will go in.

Once you have them in the chute for the first time you will want to tie their head up and just comb them; I do this with each of my steers; I want my steers to like the chute.

each one of my steers had their moment in the chute I like them to be in the chute for at least 30 minutes the first time.

I comb them talk to them and just let them know that everything is OK.

In a day or two I will but my steers back in the chute and use the blower and turn on a pair of clipper and before you know it your steers are loving the time in the chute.

This is what works for me; when working with cattle sometimes you just play it by ear and go with what works.

Check out the Watch and Learn Youtubes for more info on clipping and other tips.

The Show Stick

2010-04-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

Now is the time for your steers to meet the show stick. The way that I do this is while I have them tied up and they are eating. I let them see the stick, and smell the stick. I rub their brisket first and them their belly and last I just touch their feet. Start slow and for a short time Just a few minutes; then let them finish eating. Later in the afternoon I go back out and lead them around and use the stick a little more and try to set them up, now just do this each time you work with your calves.

Your goal is to stay calm, keep your cool, and just keep working with your calves and before you know it the touching, leading and setting up will all come together. You are trying to form a bond, gain you steer trust and built your own confidence.

When this all happens you and your steer will become a team.

I know that everyone has there own way to do this. This is just what works for me.

Added YouTube

2010-04-07T11:29:00.000-07:00

Check out the watch and learn page

Ninja Knowledge

2010-04-04T10:21:00.000-07:00

Would you like to have a blog? My mom just blogged this on her blog so I ask her if I cloud use it on mine.
this is what she wrote
When you look at my blog you might think; Man this is a real blogger, they know how to do all kinds of different thing and have some cool effects.

Well I am letting you know here and now that I am not very good at adding these different effects. In fact when I started I didn’t even know how to cut and paste; but there are some people out there that do. One of the people that lead me by the hand is known as Ninja Jen.

If you have a blog already or if you want to setup a blog you may or I should say you need to visit Jens blog http://ninjaknowledge.blogspot.com/ this is a must read. On this blog you can get some real nice GADGETS with step by step instruction on how to use them.

The Knowledge that Ninja Jen shares on this blog include: scrolling marquee, and how to change your template just to name two.

Check it out you will be glad you did!

My blog was set up by my Mom. for me, blogging is not hard but setting up and adding different gadgets may seem hard but there really not when you have step by step instructions. scroll down to the bottom of the Ninja Knowledgepage and check out the label cloud.

Why Meat Goats?

2010-04-02T15:57:00.000-07:00

My interest in Meat Goats all started when I decided to learn about how to judge the different Market animals raised and sold at fair time as part of the 4-H market animal projects.

Then one day I started asking questions and found out that one of my Dad's friends Son is making a very good living hauling meat goats to market. So I ask myself why Meat Goats?

This what I found out:

Goat is the most highly consumed meat in the world; and more goat’s milk is consumed worldwide than cow’s milk. In the United States, meat goat production is increasing because of goats’ economic value as efficient converters of low-quality forages into quality meat, and milk, products . There are several reasons for goats’ growing popularity in this country. A large factor is the large number of ethnic groups, who have a preference for goat meat, milk, and cheese products.

Another factor is the determination of many Americans to be self-sufficient. Where resources are limited, a small herd of goats may be the only livestock that a small, part-time farmer can raise to achieve self-sufficiency.

As well as being one of the most widely consumed meats in the world, goat meat is also one of the healthiest meats available for consumption. Goat meat is naturally low in fat, saturated fat and cholesterol while containing a high quantity of protein and iron.

I myself have never eaten Goats meat but I found a few different sites that might be of interest to you.

I just found this so interesting that I thought I would share it with you.

For now I will stick with my Red and Black Angus.

Beef Quality Assurance

2010-03-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

If you have a market beef project these are must reads, just follow the links to read all the information about Beef Quality Assurance.

Beef Quality Assurance is a national program that provides guidelines for beef cattle production. The program raises consumer confidence through offering proper management techniques and a commitment to quality within every segment of the beef industry.

“BQA is a process of figuring out what could go wrong, planning to avoid it – then validating and documenting what you have done. BQA is just part of good business,” explains Dee Griffin, DVM, associate professor at the University of Nebraska

Youth BQA objective
Youth BQA assist youth in understanding their role as producers in the food supply chain and their responsibility to produce a safe food product while caring for animals is an ethical manner.

Swine Judging Work Shop and Judging Contest

2010-03-29T09:53:00.000-07:00

The Swine Judging Workshop and Contest was held on March 27 at the Minidoka County Fairgrounds. Sign-in was at 9a.m.

Before I could even leave home I had to feed and water my steers and horses; so I had to get up really early, for it was a 1 1/2 hour drive to Minidoka. There was a team from Idaho Falls that had to get up even earlier than I did.

The workshop started at 10a.m. for me it was all new; I have never been to a swine work shop and had NO knowledge of swine, not a clue to what they even eat.

The workshop and judging contest lasted all day. There was so much to learn. I now look at Pigs - Swine different; Their not just ham or bacon any more.

Did you know? That pigs can not sweat (perspire) to cool off. (I didn't) Because a pigs skin is so thick and they are insulated by a layer of fat, the pig must cool itself by lying in water or mud. Just a little FYI !

Back to the Workshop;
We learned how to fill out the judging card, how to take notes, and what to look for when judging swine. All of this before lunch.
After lunch we learned Terms and Transition, Muscle and Preformance, Volume and Trimness, Structure and Balance and how to format oral reasons.

--We also had guess speaker Scott Nash.

And guest speaker Tim Hooper
from the Idaho Jr. Show Pig Association

Here are a few pictures of the events of the day

Well My brain is so full of information; guess I will take a break from thinking and let it soak in for a bit.
Stay cool and keep it natural.
And don't forget to sign my guest book.

Livestock Judging, What is it?

2010-03-25T14:03:00.000-07:00

For the next few weeks I will be looking for different sites of interest for all 4-H projects and posting their links. This is a new Blog be the first to follow.

Livestock Judging, What is it?
Judging activities provide youth with an opportunity to develop communication, decision making and organizational skills, and enhance their confidence and self esteem.
Judging is usually a team effort, but individuals can also participate. Three to four youth on a team will judge various classes of livestock. Typically market and breeding beef, sheep, and swine species are used in a contest. Youth will judge each class (consisting of 4 animals) and an official judge will give his placing. Youth are then scored compared to the official judge. Oral reasons may or may not be included in a contest. If a contest does have a reasons class, youth will judge the class and take notes as to why they placed the class the way they did. Youth will then get an opportunity to work and rewrite their notes into reasons. Once they are finished, then youth will present their reasons to one person and they will receive a score to be added to their overall score. New this year is the Southern III District Livestock Judging Program. There are multiple scheduled days around the district this spring and summer. The goal of the Livestock Judging Program is to help youth and adults learn; 1. What to look for when judging animals 2. How to take notes 3. Understanding terms and animal parts 4. How to format and give oral reasons.

Cindy A. Kinder Extension Educator Gooding County Idaho

My 2010 4-H Steers

2010-03-20T18:11:00.000-07:00

This is Munch he weighed in at 913 pounds. Red Angus

This is Pepper he weighed in at 878 pounds.
Black Angus

And this is George he weighed in at 868 pounds. Red Angus

All my steers lead and behaved very well the weigh-in process went very smooth; but they were glad to get home.

Now it is time to set the feeding, exercise, and training schedules.

Let the fun begin!!

Selecting 4-H Market Livestock Project Animals

2010-03-19T17:05:00.000-07:00

INTRODUCTION — SELECTING ANIMALS FOR A "SYSTEMS APPROACH" MARKET LIVESTOCK PROGRAM
The first concept that needs to be understood is that selecting animals for a Systems Approach program is not the same as selecting a "show" animal to be groomed, molded and manipulated to fit the current fad of the show ring. With the "Systems Approach", animals are selected which, with proper management, will meet the typical standards for efficiency, profitability, and usefulness to the production, feedlot and packing industry and at the same time exhibit a high degree of acceptance by the consumer.
The Systems Approach project evaluation is based on achievement of standards for selection, management and efficient production of meat that is desirable to packer and consumer. The project evaluation card uses four categories to evaluate member achievement and success. The Lean Yield section of the card indicates the degree of success in selecting and producing a lean product profitable to the packer and desired by consumers. The Conformation/Usefulness evaluation looks individually at muscling, trimness, growth and frame and structure and balance. These factors are representative of potential for achieving a desirable yield grade, a high degree of production efficiency, a high level of consumer satisfaction and a desirable degree of longevity. The gain and quality grade section evaluates both profitability and consumer desirability. The rate of gain section recognizes successful animal management in achieving a high level of efficiency and profitability. Gain is rated higher for higher quality animals where each pound of gain is more valuable.
The primary purpose for selecting animals is to obtain an animal that when properly fed and managed will represent the best in the industry. This means that industry standards must be identified prior to selection. The following standards represent industry goals achievable by most youth livestock program participants. Judges use the "Systems Approach" evaluation card to provide an evaluation of these standards. Animal selection is guided by the same standards that are used to evaluate accomplishment.

TABLE 1. Typical minimum standards for performance and quality.

BEEF
USDA yield grade 3.0 or less.
Live weight 1150 to 1300 lb.
Minimum 2.8 lb. ADG.
Conformation Score of 22 or >.

PIGS
USDA grade of No. 1.
Muscle score of 7 or higher.
Live weight 240 to 270 lb.
Minimum 1.85 lb. ADG.
Conformation Score of 22 or >.

LAMBS
USDA Choice Y.G. 2 or >.
Muscle score of 7 or higher.
Live weight 115 to 145 lb.
Minimum 0.75 lb. ADG.
Conformation Score of 22 or >.

just click the link below to read it all.
this is a place to learn about selecting 4-H market livestock animals
written by: Chad C. Gibson, Gene W. Gibson, Jeff Goodwin

Weigh In is almost here

2010-03-17T15:21:00.000-07:00

Weigh In of my market steers is this weekend; I can't wait to see what my steers are weighing.
After weigh in I will take my before pictures and post them so that you can see my steers.
Check back this weekend and check it out.

Just a reminder to please sign my guest book.

Breaking to Lead

2010-02-17T11:00:00.000-08:00

We had snow and a very cold weather this year. I hope you all did your own feeding this Winter?
I did all the feeding and watering of my Steers, each time I did my chores I talked and rubbed on my steers so not to loose the work I did last Fall on breaking them to touch.

Now it is time to break them to lead. Everyone has a different way to do this. First I touched, rubbed and fed my steers all winter, doing this made it easier for me to break my steers to lead.

First I did the pull and release; this is done by pulling on the lead rope for a few minutes. This puts pressure on the steers head, and nose, then release the pressure. Do this until the steer takes a step or two. Repeat this step until the steer gives to you.

Next Place your hand on the lead rope closer to the steers head, and take a few steps. You are still using the pull and release and trying to get you steer to give to you.

This all takes time, I do this every morning and night at feeding time. I lead them to where I feed and tie them up while they eat. After they eat I lead them around for a while.

I have found that when breaking to lead a few steps at a time is a good start.

Before you know it your steers are leading all around the pen for you. Try to remember to stay calm and just keep working with them. I try to have my steers broke to lead by Spring so that it gives me time to do the ground work for the show ring.. Something to always remember; Your steers are not pets, I never let my guard down when working with my steers. I work on the leading and show ring skills to the day I show and sale my steers. Then and only then do I think that my steers are broke to lead, touch, and show.

Set you goals and work to meet them.

Stay Calm and just keep working.

If you give it your best; that is the best you can do.

Selection and Management of 4-H Market Lambs

2010-01-02T11:39:00.000-08:00

I found this for Jessica and Hunter they are member of my 4-H club that raise Market Lambs.
this article just for you. Check It out It is good stuff.

This is a great must Read for the first year, or like me someone who know nothing about raising market lambs.

By Mike Neary Extension Sheep Specialist Purdue University To read the full article click this link

Choosing what breed or breeds you want to raise is an important decision. You need to keep in mind that every breed has strong points, as well as weak points. Therefore, match up breeds with your particular situation. commercial white-faced and black-faced can also be used for market lambs. Make sure you know something about the breed character and traits of whatever breed you are choosing. Contact your state or national breed association for information about breeds you are interested in.
When choosing a producer to buy lambs from some important points need to be considered. Primarily, is the breeder an honest, respected person that will truthfully answer questions and assist you should a problem arise? Good producers back their product and help 4-H participants with their questions and offer advice.
When selecting lambs, keep in mind the final objective; production of a lamb with a high quality, lean, muscular carcass that is practically and economically produced. Most lambs should be slaughtered in a weight range of 105 to 130 pounds. Ideally, lambs should be slaughtered when they have from .1 to .2 inches of external body fat. This fat thickness range ensures that carcass quality is adequate, with minimal amounts of excess fat trim. Therefore, the final weight achieved when lambs are finished will vary depending on breed, frame size and nutrition.
A common fault in selecting market lambs is to select lambs that are of an extreme in a particular trait. Single trait selection for any type of livestock can quickly lead to decreased usefulness when other traits are measured. Therefore, lambs should be selected that are "well rounded" or complete. these lambs would be above average in all respects, rather than exceptional in one trait and below average in all others.
What is a complete lamb? A complete lamb is one that is above average in muscling, of adequate frame size to have economical gains and finish at a market acceptable weight and is structurally correct.
When evaluating a young lamb to predict future muscle thickness, you need to keep in mind carcass economics. The highest priced cuts from a lamb come from the hindsaddle, or from the last rib back. Your lamb should show evidence of depth and width through the loin, fullness and length through the rump, with a full, muscular leg and stifle. Also, the forearm area of lambs and fullness behind the shoulders are good indicators of future muscle development. A lamb is born with all the muscle fibers it will ever have, feeding or exercising will not make a lamb into something it is not genetically capable of being.
Frame size in lambs is used to predict growth potential and to predict size (weight) when properly finished. Usually, lambs should be from average to large in frame size, for their breed, for economical gains. Very small and very large frame size lambs should be avoided, as they often finish at weights that are not market acceptable. Frame size is often thought of as just height, when actually it includes body length and body capacity. Frame size can be compared to a rectangular box, with height, length and total volume all making an equal contribution. Ideally, lambs should be long in the hindsaddle (loin and rump) region.
Structural correctness refers to several traits. Certainly, your lambs should have sound mouths, normal eyes, and be free of any abnormalities. Feet and leg placement should be square with normal width and straightness. Furthermore, lambs should have strong pasterns and no feet problems. Do not buy lambs that limp and if a producer has footrot problems in his flock, consider buying from someone else.
Balance or eye appeal is also desirable in your lambs. Eye appeal is a subjective measurement, but generally, lambs should be level in the top line, straight and square over the rump, and not have extreme coarseness through the shoulder, neck and brisket area.
When buying your lambs, make sure they are within a manageable weight range. They need to be at least two months old and heavy enough to attain their finished weight by fair time. Most lambs will gain from 0.5 to 0.75 pounds per day. However, do not make the mistake of buying lambs that are too heavy. Lambs that are held at maintenance too long get stale appearing. Ideally, your lambs should be within a weight range that will allow for normal growth to reach market weight by fair time.

What A Fun Project

2009-12-30T17:45:00.000-08:00

Today I went to what I thought was a one day camp. It is not a one day camp it is a project. My family drive's teams of horses and I thought I would go and learn about the equipment and tack and how to hook up the horse's. I had so much fun I signed up for the Project. I think everyone else had fun too.

It is not to late if you would like to learn how to drive a team of horses call the Gooding County Ext. office at 934 - 4417or the Lincoln County Ext. office at 886 -2406 for more information and the time and date of the next meeting.

This Project was cool the ages of the different 4-H members was from 8 to 17

there were members from Gooding County, Jerome County and Lincoln County

So if you would like to have fun and learn to drive a team of horses.

The next meeting is on the 19th of January in Shoshone

Stay cool keep it natural and I will see you at the next meeting.

Do Your own Ground Work with Your 4-H market Animal Project

2009-11-18T07:39:00.000-08:00

We all what to be the Grand Champion Showmen and have the Grand Champion Steer or Heifer.
The Most important thing to remember is there can be only one Champion Showmen and Animal.
In three short years I went from a show ring nightmare to the top six in showmanship, when I stepped out of the ring I made the statement I won; Some thought I was nuts! That is because I had a personal goal to be in the top six. This is why it is very important to set goals that you can realize. Of course I set my sights on Champion; REACH FOR THE STAR’S, but I will take that personal best win every time.

Tips for Mom and Dad
Teach us, show us, train us; but once we step in the ring we are on our own. Please don’t try to give us orders and tell us what to do. The judge wants to see what we know? We can not hear the judge if you are giving us directions on what to do. Believe me we are trying our best!

Safety
Teach us what to do when our steers are behaving badly. Let us do the groundwork and gain the trust of our animal.
Show us how to keep our cool so that we don’t get to nerves in the ring. This takes time and a lot of practice Our steers are BIG and that is the scariest thing.
Train us on how to keep our selves and the others in the ring from getting hurt. Show us what to do in the worst case of badly behaving steers.

To you who are showing the steers, no matter how bad it gets in the ring. If the Judge ask if you would like to leave the ring SAY NO! If the judge wants you to leave He or She will not give you the choice to stay.
This is the time to show that you did work with your steers, and what you have learned.

Below is my story that happened my first year.
My first year with beef project; I had every 4-h showman’s nightmare.

I worked with my calves everyday and everyday it was like they were never messed with, No matter what I did. I kept working and working for months.
So when show day came around I thought I was good to go. I wasn't!
After a couple of times around the ring in showmanship the calf name John Wayne; stepped on the edge of my right boot and tripped me, then he pinned me down by my pants leg. The Judge then came over and helped me up at that point the judge ask me it I want give up and leave the ring? I said NO! A couple of hours later I had to go back in the ring with John Wayne he did a little better this time. Not really!
By the way John Wayne was the gentle one, Now it is time to show Clint Eastwood.
Here it comes, Clint was the wild one a big pain in the neck. Clint didn’t stand still at all. First he kicked another showman's comb out of her pocket and then he came within an inch of kicking the judge. Thank Goodness no one got hurt, The judge tried to touch Clint but No luck he danced and danced around, even without being able to touch Clint the judge placed him 3rd in his weigh class.
Afterward I thanked the judge for not taking me out of the ring.
Now would you like to Know what I learned from this nightmare?
1 - Saler is not a breed for a beginner; I might try Saler again when I get more experience. One thing about Salers they are a GREAT Steak, good eating.

2 - The first year; learn all the safety rules and what to do when you steer acts up.

3 - Never give up; when you are asked if you want to leave the ring say NO.

4 - If you can’t touch them you can’t judge them.

5 - Everything that could go wrong did. I learned more from what went wrong than I ever could have if it would have went right.

No matter where you are from it seems that there is one person at the fair that has a bad time with their animals, never count them out for that person just learned more than any other person there.

One last thing! Don't wait until the last minute to start working with you animals, these are not pets. Remember if you give it your best, that is the best you can do and just keep working at your show ring skills.

Any way that is what I am going to do.

P.S.
This steers name was Clint Eastwood and the others steers name was John Wayne, Famous tough guys. I don't do that any more, because that is just what these two steers were tough guys.

The Six “C’s” for Success

2009-11-15T08:36:00.000-08:00

I found this Artical while looking for information that might be helpful with my 4-H market animal project. So I thought I would share the Six "C" for Success with you, this artical was written by The University of Arizona.

The Six "C" For Success
1. CORRECT SELECTION
Select an animal not only with good conformation but with a personality you can work with.

2. CONSISTENCY
There are no shortcuts to success. A consistent program encompassing regular workouts will
accomplish more than a last minute flurry of activity two weeks before the show.

3. CALENDAR
Set calendar deadlines with ration changes, halter breaking, clipping and grooming, and practice
shows. Maintain a regular daily schedule of feeding, handling, and grooming your animal. Two weeks before the fair is not the time to start training your show animal.

4. COMPENSATION
Learn what your animal’s conformational strengths and weaknesses are so as to successfully
emphasize the positive and downplay faults. Similarly, if the show animal has a personality
flaw that will make showing difficult, plan ahead and compensate for this in the show ring.

5. CONFIDENCE
Show with confidence. Adequate preparation will allow you to show with a smile on your face. Be thoroughly familiar with rations, average daily gain, current weight, purchase weight, age, and breed of animal so you can answer questions from the judge. It is also important to be able to identify the different parts of the animal and the associated retail and whole sale cuts. You can help "psych" yourself up by rehearsing the show in your mind with good and bad things that could happen and how you would handle them. Performing in a practice show with members of your club or family acting, as a judge and announcer and ring steward is helpful.

6. CHARACTER
Demonstrate impeccable ethics in the preparation preceding the show and during the show itself. Be courteous to all other exhibitors, parents and leaders. The livestock show is the culmination
of the project year for many livestock participants and the community. Youth livestock exhibitors represent the livestock industry at fairs and shows to the public. A little courtesy (as well as a lot of honesty) goes a long way in relations with the public.

This is a great artical worth reading. check it out for yourself.just click the blue
The University of Arizona link.

Picking your Steers & Breaking Your Steers To Touch

2009-11-10T15:33:00.000-08:00

The first year I started with my steer projects; I looked high and low for help on how to break them to touch.
I wanted a way to do it so that my Dad and I would not get kicked and be black and blue for weeks. The first year we were black and blue, But the second year I learned a way to break them with out bruise's or pain.

When you need to know something about cattle your best bet is to find an old Cowboy or someone with lots of hands on experience. That is how I learned these little tricks.

Pick your Cattle producer wisely. A quite ranch is one of the first thing to look for. Happy well fed cattle that do not make very much noise.

I like to pick my own steers. I make a list of the quality's that I like in my show steers. I also listen to my Dad and to the owner of the cattle. We actually go into the pen with the steers. This is why you need quite well fed and calm cattle. This takes a while; take your time buying a steer to show is a large investment.

Once you have chosen you steers, it is time to weigh and load them up. Once you have loaded and paid the cattle producer. You then need a brand inspection. Once this is all done you
are now a cattle owner.

It is now up to YOU.
A market 4-H animal project is a lot of work, you have to feed and water and do vet checks and keep records. The more you put into your project the better.

If possible put on the lead ropes before you load them, that makes it easier for you, just know that they can and will come off.

Now that I have my steers home. I like to let them get to know their new home for a few days and get use to the change in their feed and calm down from the ride. After a few day's it is time to break my steers to touch.

The first thing to do is put your steers into a small pen about a 12' X 12' so that no matter how hard they try they can not get away from you. You will also need a leaf rake.
The rake feels like your fingers.

and your arm just got about 5' longer.

My Dad goes in first; he takes it slow and starts to rub each steer a little at a time starting with the back of the steer. In the first few minutes your steers will move around but can never get away from you. After a while my Dad can rub them all over with the rake.

Now it is my turn, I rub their backs, neck, rump and legs.

I also make sure to rub their sides, under belly, and brisket. These places on the steer are very important; this is where you will be touching them with the show stick in the show ring.

Now it is time for me to keep using the rake and for my Dad to touch them with his hands. Now we just keep doing this until we no longer need the rake.
After about two hours my steers are broke to touch.
If your steers are not calm to start with breaking to touch can take hours and even days.

The halters came off my steers so we had to put them back on. To do this just take your time and move slowly so not to stress your steers out.

I now rub, and comb, my steers everyday making sure to talk to them the whole time so they get use to my voice.

Check back in a few days and we will talk about breaking to lead.

Hey don't forget to start your record book the day you bring your steers home.
Record Books
Those simple words cause more stress between child and parent when it comes fair time.
Here is the best tip ever; go to the 4-H website and get your record books and save them to your documents. Then when you work on one of your projects just fill in the date, time, and what you did that day. This takes only a few minutes and when fair time rolls around your record book is complete you just print it out and your done. NO stress, NO tears, NO problem.

I do a lot of projects, and if I waited until fair to work on my books; I WOULD FREAK OUT.

Staying calm and keeping it Natural

My Vacation Is Over - The Steers are in Their Pen's

2009-10-27T06:22:00.000-07:00

My vacation is over and the 2010 4-H season for me has started.

This means that my day just got longer, now I have to get up earlier, so that I can have time to do my chores between my school class.

I went and picked my steers on Sunday and got all the paper work in order so to be able to start keeping my books for this year.

I will start the ground work soon but for now my steers are getting use to their new home.

I will not be posting any pictures of my steers at this time; I will post them after weigh-in.

For some 4-H is something you do in the summer but for me it is a year round lifestyle choice.

By the way I will be starting my other projects in the next few weeks.

Be sure to check in from time to time for updates, tips, and fun. Gee I love 4-H!

Of course the wether has changed and the wind is blowing with a chance of snow, fun fun fun!

Getting Ready for My 2010 4-H Market Beef Project

2009-10-21T13:01:00.000-07:00

   This is the time of the year when I start to get ready for my new Steers. Before I can bring them home I must clean and repair the calf pens. When Cleaning my pens I remove all old poop clear down to the dirt; I like my steer to start the winter with a very clean pen.
   Last year was really cold and it snowed a lot. I was not quite ready for all that snow and had my hay stacked a long ways away from my calf pens. This year I have my hay right next to the pens to make it easier for me if it snows a lot this year. I also helped my Dad put tarps on all our hay to keep it dry so that we do not loose a lot of hay to mold. I also helped my dad redo my calf pens and make them a little larger to give my steers more room this winter.
   Next I check all the water hoses and place straw around our frost free water facet so if we have a lot of wind it won't freeze it up; this is just to be on the safe side.
   I have cleaned and repaired pens, good dry hay, I have winterized our frost free water facet and check all my hoses.

   I also make sure that I have a bloat kit on hand, and set out mineral blocks.
   Our horses are not a 4-H project; but I also helped clean and ready them for winter. We stocked up on grain and gave them a mineral salt block.
   Well I think I am ready to go and pick my steers. I am sure my Dad will find something I forgot, just because that what Dad's do.
   I have already talked to the cattle producer that I get my steers from; Mr. Vos from the Clover Creek Ranch will call me when the calves are ready.
   Now the hard part; I wait for the call.

2009 Jr State Wool Contest Winner

2009-10-19T11:08:00.000-07:00

This is my Wool Contest Story:
                                                    My Wool Contest Story

   Hello my name is Cora ; I am twelve years old and I live in Idaho. I am a fifth year member of the Hodge Podgers 4-H club and this is my fifth year with a sewing project.

   This year my project level was Sew What unit 4. Requirements to complete this level were Collar or Cuffs, Set-in Sleeve, Waistband, Zipper, Pockets, Button and Buttonholes. My first year in Sew What (2008) I completed a wool jumper using the zipper, pockets, button and buttonhole. That is when I fell in love working with wool. Cutting, pinning and sewing wool fabric is great and when it is all done it looks so rich and nice. 2009 left me with waistband, set-in sleeve, and collar or cuffs.

   After reading the Style, Fashion, and Fad activity in my Sew What Member’s Manual I chose to make two garments. I am all about the country life wranglers and cowboy boots that’s me. Dresses are not my favorite thing to wear so I had to find my own style. I decided on a pair of slacks and a cute three-quarter-length sleeve jacket. The pattern for the pants is Simplicity 2860 and for the jacket it is Simplicity 3563.

   Picking the patterns was easy compared to finding the wool fabric in a color that I liked and would wear, I traveled from Boise to Burley. I was looking for a color other than black that could be worn on any given day that would be fashionable for many years, and that I could build my wardrobe around. I chose dark green 80% wool for the jacket and green gray 100% wool for the slacks. Both were on sale.

   There were a few new sewing challenges when it came time to make the jacket. The most difficult was the sleeves, I had to rip and sew one of the sleeves again. I don’t like ripping so I took my time on the other sleeve and used lots of pins. The shawl collar was another challenge easing is and art; my leader said easing takes years of practice, so I just used lots of pins on and took my time on this too. To finish my jacket I hand stitched the hem and added black and silver buttons.

   Wool fabric is expensive so I made a practice pair of slacks first out of denim to check for fit and made adjustments to the size and fit. Then I cut out and made my wool slacks; because denim is different from wool I still had to do a little more tailoring to the slacks. I turned them inside out and put them on, pinned and tailored them to fit better. I think the zipper was my most difficult to put in I tried my best and just took my time. It was a good thing I made a practice pair of slacks first the waistband and belt loops were new to me and I needed the extra practice.

   From cowboy boots to sling back shoes now that was a real challenge. I practiced walking in my sling backs for weeks before my county style revue. I even vacuumed the carpet in them.

   When it came time for the County Style Revue. I was hoping for a cool evening; it wasn’t it was 102 that day. While trying not to sweat (not a good accessory) I tried to stay true to my own style. I added a silver western style necklace, earrings, bracelet, and clip for my hair.

   At the county level I received a Blue ribbon in style revue and the Purple Rosette for my wool jacket and slacks sewing project.

   The District III Style Revue was held at the Twin Falls County Fair this year. It started at about 9:30 a.m. The weather was a little cooler that morning it even rained, but stopped just in time for the Revue to start. I love going to District it is fun to see what all the others are making and talk to them about their different projects. At District I received a Blue Rosette and the honor of being Intermediate Grand Champion.

   After it was all over I thought to myself; do your feet ever stop hurting when wearing sling backs and heels or is it something we just get use too.

The 2009 Gooding County Year End Awards

2009-10-14T13:10:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Gooding County Year End Awards were held on October 10th 2009. There was a Great turn out this year. When I get the News letter with all the award winners I will post them all.

But for now I will let you know how I did.

I received the Top Achievement for: Food and Nutrition, Clothing & Textiles, Fashion Revue, Demonstrations, and Beef for these achievements I received a medals.
I also received the;
Outstanding Clothing Project - $15.00 Scholarship
Best 4-H Intermediate Market Beef Record Book - Plaque
And the
Outstanding 4-H Beef Project - Trophy

I had A Great Year and can't wait to start my next years projects.

Check back soon for the list of all the Gooding County 2009 year winners. I will also be posting more pictures.

4-H Public Speaking

2009-09-24T11:02:00.000-07:00

First I would like to say that speaking in public is NOT easy; you stand in front of a lot of people you don't know, and tell them something that you have learned or are learning all of them are
looking at you. Waiting to see what you have to say and in a contest they are judging you on what you say and how you say it.

In 4-H there is three different categories Demonstration; shows how to make or do something from start to finish. Illustrated Talk; Posters, souvenirs, pictures or PowerPoint are used to demonstrate knowledge or opinion, and Public Speaking can be Dramatic Presentation or Original Speech. All of the categories have a recommended time allowance. Juniors ages 8-11 is 4 to 5 minutes, Intermediate ages 12-14 is 5-6 minutes and Seniors ages 15-19 is 6 to 10 minutes.

All contestants are judged on Introduction, Organization, Visual Aids, Materials and Equipment, Content and Accuracy, Information, Stage presence, if you are Relaxed and comfortable with topic, Delivery, Voice control, Effect on Audience, Summary, Questions, and Time.

I myself never take anything that the judges say as personal; The Judges are there to help and teach. I also try to have a good time while I am speaking and smile. I love to hear all the other speakers and always learn something new at these contests.

My moms camera died and two speakers did not get their photos taken and at this time I would like to say I am sorry to Risa and Bronwyn; you both did a great job.

My Gooding Country Fair 2009 Projects

2009-08-25T10:59:00.001-07:00

This is LT Dan he weighed 1235 and received a blue ribbon
in quality. Dan was also my showmanship steer and we
also received a Blue ribbon. Dan was a real gentlemen and never
gave me a bit of trouble.

This Forest Gump he weighed 1246 and This is Bubba he weighed 1338
They both received a blue ribbon in quality

This is my poster entry for this I received the Purple Rosette.

This is my Leather Project for this I received a Blue ribbon, The Purple Rosette went to a hand carved Leather Directors Chair, That 4-Her did an out standing job.

My Quilt Pattern is call Big Thunderand my quilt will fit a full size bed. I chose to use a fifties cartoon print and matched the colors in the print for all the borders. For my quilt I received a Blue and the Purple Rosette.

My4-H illustrated talk this year was on the Beef Niche Markets, and the difference between Organic and Natural. It also covered the requirements for each and how to make the transition. I received the purple rosette and I will go to District to compete.

This is my4-H Sew What project - A dark green 80% wool jacket, and 100% wool pants, in style revue I received a Blue Ribbon and on the sewing project I received a Purple Rosette. With this Project I will go to the State level and compete.

I had a great time at the Fair this year, all my steers behaved and my Dad came home without one bruise; ha ha that a first! On Sunday I sent Dan off and Cleaned the Barn. I am Home and getting ready for next year.

I am already thinking about my new steers, what kind of quilt I will make, and what other projects I will do.

I will start school on 9/21/09 but for the next week I will just take a little vacation and veg out for awhile.

I will be posting pictures of all my friends at the fair soon so check back in a few days. I will also post my open class entries.

2009 Gooding County Fair is now in the History Books

2009-08-23T10:57:00.000-07:00

Now that the 2009 Gooding Country Fair is over, I will start to post all the pictures that my Mom has taken.

I think I will take a day or two and rest up first. I had a Great Fair. So check back on Monday or Tuesday and see what happened at the Fair.

Thank Your 2008 Market Beef Buyer

2009-08-21T09:57:00.000-07:00

I would like to Thank Mike Sobotka and Sobotka Farms LLC for his support of my market beef project for 2008.
Your support and kindness of Me and all my projects is the greatness gift a person can give.
THANK YOU !

2009 Gooding County 4-H Oral Presentation Contest

2009-08-14T17:00:00.000-07:00

To see full screen click picture.

I would like to say that it is not easy to get up in front of a room and give a presentation the judges are lessening to your every word and watching your every move and scoring you while you are taking. It is hard when you are 12yrs old and even harder when you are only 8 yrs old.
I hope to see you all back next year. I think Everyone of the contestants did an outstanding job on their Presentations.

Juniors presentations must be 4 to 5 minutes, and Intermediate presentations must be 5 to 6 minutes long.

Juniors 1 Ag. Presentation - Purple Rosette to Madison Crawford 8yrs old - Proper Digestion to Avoid Indigestion. Blue ribbon Dana Whitesell 9yrs old - "The Perfect Pig Shelter".

Junior 2 Ag. Presentation - Purple Rosette Brad Whitesell 11yrs old - "Can Your Pigs Put Money in Your Piggy Bank"

Intermediate Ag Presentations - Purple Rosette Cora Isaacs 12yrs old - "The Beef Niche Markets". Blue Ribbon Brianna Reed 12yrs old - "Llama101: Maintaining a Happy, Healthy Llama".

Junior 2 Miscellaneous Presentation - Purple Rosette Matthew Wisniewski 11yrs old - " Photosynthesis: The Wonder of Plants".

FCS Presentation Junior 1- Purple Rosette Christin Wisniewski 8yrs - " Delicious & Simple Carrot Salad".

Intermediate FCS Presentation - Purple Rosette Hannah Wisniewski 13yrs old - " Perfect Pastry for Tasty Pie". Blue Ribbon Cora Isaacs 12 yrs old - " Berry Cold Berry Good Freezer Jam".

Dramatic Presentation - Purple Rosette Justin Langley 11yrs old " A Cowboy's Way of Life".

A special Thank you to the Judges, for giving up their afternoon. Marie and Robbin thanks so much for all that you do for the 4-H program.

2009 Gooding County 4-H Style Revue

2009-08-13T12:17:00.000-07:00

Click the picture to see full screen!

Now that our Projects are done comes the fun part showing it off to the world!

List of contestants:
Intermediate Clothing Projects: Cora Isaacs , Hannah Wisniewski
Junior 1 Clothing Projects: Magan Bigler, Carlo Carrilo, Christin Wisniewski, Cassie Woodland
Junior Modeling Projects: Jessy Faulkner, Erin Langley
Intermediate Modeling Project: Shelby Trent, Hannah Wisniewski,
Senior Modeling: Timberly Trent
Clover Bud Models: Hannah Ruby

Judging Criteria:
Smiles comfortably
Posture is straight
Shows all of outfit to all audience
Modeling appropriate for outfit
Smooth turns
Outfit fits well
Personal grooming
Good choice of accessories
Handles clothing with ease
Poise-handles situation calmly
Style and color attractive on 4-Her
Fabric appropriate for pattern ( clothing Project)
Style appropriate for age (modeling Project)
color combination and trim pleasing
Garment pressed and clean
Hems smooth and even (clothing project)
Narration is catchy and informative ( modeling)

Now we all have to wait for the first day of the Fair to see how we did!

Special Thanks to:
Judges :
Lachell Taylor
Helen Hopkins
Leah Scott

Narrator:
Leana Patterson

Stage Decorations:
Blaze 'N' Boosts 4-H Club

A VERY SPECIAL THANK YOU TO
Marie Baucum
Who does what ever it take to make our 4-H year Great!

Fair 2009 starts

2009-08-10T06:50:00.001-07:00

Today start the beginning of the fair for all 4-H projects. Today is the market animal record book interviews. We must have our books up to date, and be able to answer questions about our market projects. I have study and worked with my steers and I am ready. I will let you know how I did as soon as I find out.

Did You Know?

2009-08-01T09:08:00.000-07:00

The 4-H Name & Emblem is a highly valued mark with in our country's history. As such it was granted a very unique and special status; it is in a category similar to the Presidential Seal and the Olympic Emblem. This federal protection makes it a mark into and of itself with protection that supersedes the limited authorities of both a trademark and a copyright. As a result, responsibility and stewardship for the 4-H Name & Emblem were not given to the U.S. Patent Office but were given to a higher level of the federal government, a member of the Cabinet, the Secretary of Agriculture. The Secretary has responsibility for the 4-H Name and Emblem, at the direct request of Congress.
The "18 USC 707" is the statement in the United States Code that outline the protection of the 4-H Name & Emblem.

I found this information while reading my 2009 4-H fair book.

All Most Fair Time

2009-07-17T06:13:00.001-07:00

It is just 30 days to fair time; I am putting the finishing touches on my sewing project. I have finished my quilt, canning, and leather projects and paper work.

I have started to wash and groom my steers every day, and I am working with my steers practicing my showing skill.

I am also working on my speech and modeling.

when it is all done I will have competed 7 different projects.
After the judging is over I will post pictures of all my projects and awards.

It Might Rain Tonight

2009-07-12T11:27:00.000-07:00

It might rain tonight so Mom, Dad and I went out to tarp all our hay. We did not have enough tarps so we Call My uncle Darrel; he works for ITC Services inc. they make tarps. Uncle Darrel came right over and brought us a tarp and showed Dad how to put it on. Dad said it was the quickest and easiest tarps that he has ever used, and that we won't be buying tarps from any one but ITC from now on.

So if you need any tarps and don't want to spend hours tarping you should call ITC Services and ask for Darrel L Green 1-208-280-0271 or 1-887-TARP-HAY

These guys make tarps for:
Hay
Silage
Trucks
Commodity's
you can buy or rent them
Dad liked the tarps so much; we even put up a sign on my calf shed.

Western Heritage Gathering & Ranch Rodeo Was A Sucess!

2009-07-09T11:41:00.000-07:00

(click on the pictures to see full screen)
My Grandma Helen, Grandpa Harold and I competed in the Draft horse competition and took home a total of 4 blue ribbons and 4 red ribbons.

As you can see the drivers in this contest came in all sizes and ages, It is a way of life for some here in Idaho. Driving a team of horses is fun and it keep are heritage alive.

Where I live we see the sheep herdsman wagons all the time, but I had never seen them up close or the inside, so I thought you might like to see what the herdsman wagons looked like too.
I think these wagons would be fun for camping, don't you!

At night there was a ranch hand rodeo also.

So many people worked hard and together to make the event happen It is impossible to list everyone because so many people pitched in to help. But two people really need to be mentioned because they made this event happen . They are Jeff Cole and Carmen Stevens. Those of you who are 4-H members, leaders and parents who helped A big thank You.

Last but not least thanks to all in the Gooding and other communities for coming out and supporting our 4-H program.

Up Date on My Projects

2009-06-20T05:44:00.000-07:00

It is just 57 more days until Fair time; I have completed of my Quilt and leather projects, and my market beef book is up to date. I will start my sewing and canning projects this week, my projects are right on schedule. How are your Projects coming along?

For you who what to see my finished projects I will be posting pictures of them the day after they are judged.

This is a very busy time for me and my family, I just love summer don't you?

Mini-Cassia Junior Showdown

2009-06-19T17:37:00.000-07:00

Jackpot Steer And Heifer Show

July 11th at the Minidoka Fair Grounds - Rupert Idaho
4-H, FFA, and Jr. Breed Association members
Animal must belong to youth making the entry

Weigh in Time
Steers and Heifers
8:00 - 9:00am

Show at 10:00am
$25.00 entry
No pre-entry required

Questions Contact:
David Anderason 208-645-2414
Cell 208-731-2221
Chris Patterson 208-678-7005

* NO SHEEP SHOW THIS YEAR*

Swine show Pre enter by June 25th
Contact Arland Ward 208-678-1730

Complimentary Lunch following Show

Gooding Western Heritage Gathering and Ranch Hand Rodeo - 4-H Fundraiser

2009-06-02T13:59:00.000-07:00

Gooding Western Heritage Gathering and Ranch Hand Rodeo
Gooding County Fairgrounds
June 26 & 27 2009

Join us for a weekend of activities the western way!

Ranch Hand Rodeo on Friday & Saturday

Wagon Circling the campfire & Cowboy Poetry

Horse or Horse-Drawn Parade Saturday

Dutch Oven Cook-Off Saturday afternoon

Dance Saturday night

All activities will be family-friendly and alcohol will not be served. All proceeds will go to the Gooding County 4-H program for improvements of the fairground facilities. For more information call:

Ranch Rodeo - Jeff Cole ( 569-6002 or 837-6210 )

Dutch Oven Cook Off - Lynn Arriaga ( 934-5316 )

Draft Horse Show - Gert Clarkson ( 934-5316 )

4-H Responsibilities - Marie Baucum ( 934-4417 )

Hodge Podgers May 17, 4-H Meeting

2009-05-18T14:02:00.000-07:00

The meeting was called to order pledges were given and we were off to do the Hodge Podgers community service project; we picked up trash it was really hot. When we were done we all when back and had root beer floats and set in the shade. Logan gave her demonistation on parts of a horse, the meeting was ajourned and we all went home.

Leather Project 2009

2009-05-18T13:38:00.001-07:00

When it is hot outside I work on some of my different projects.

After the Fair, My leather project will also be Christmas gifts.

I have started my leather project and will complete it in the next week. How are your projects comming along.

2009 Leader Forum

2009-05-14T10:09:00.000-07:00

Seem that spring has make it to the

high desert; and all our time is out side because of the excitement of all the colors of this beautiful time of year.

The smell of blooming sage brush the sight of new born calves, baby lambs, and the blue sky what else can a person ask for .

Saturday the May 9th Dad and I spent the day at the 2009 District III leaders forum, this is where all the Districts 4-h leaders give a 45minutes learning forum.

Our day started very early; can't have fun until after all the farm chores are done. That is just life on the farm around here.

The Forum was help in Twin Falls about 60 miles that's not to bad, just an hour. Our first Forum was on Etiquette for today's Youth. It was all about which fork to use, how to set the table, when do you not answer your cell phone and make sure it is turned off. Just your all around chance to renew your manners and refresher course on etiquette, It was presented by Samantha Anderson; Samantha even covered the ever present what to do when you need to fart. Samantha did a great job.

The Next forum was Showmanship Etiquette- it covered the five points of showmanship. Not a lot new there just a little refresher before the showing season starts; but when there is animals there is a lot of excitement. This was no exception of course the Bull had to jump out of the ring and we had to spend an hour trying to get it caught with as little damage to the the fair grounds and with out it causing a problem with the rest of the animal forums. That bull was free and he was having a good time, he was just playing, he ran, jumped, and played catch me if you can. When the Owner's Dad showed up he just stopped and loaded into the trailer like it was just a fun outing. Bulls you just got to love them!

Dad and I also attend the Dynamite Demonstration, Cost comparison of commercial beef vs. registered beef, And the Beef Quality assurance. These were the get down to business forums, lots and lots was learned at these. A person has to keep up with the ever changing times in the Beef industry.

I would like to thank all of the Leaders,Volunteers, and Parents that gave up their weekend to make it a great time for us.

note from mom

Something great happened to Cora; She and her 2008 steer Clover are the new cover of the Youth Beef Quality Assurance Program manual for the Pacific Northwest.

We think it is a honor, and the coolest thing. Gee I guess I just had to do the Mother bragging thing, we are very proud of Cora. Here are a few links http://cru84.cahe.wsu.edu/cgi-bin/pubs/PNW0593.html

Cora learned a lot and had a great time.

If you have never been to this kind of thing you should try it.

A Short 4-H Club History

2009-05-03T11:59:00.000-07:00

4-H grew out of the progressive educational movement of the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. Rural school Principals and Superintendents were interested in applying practical concepts to the reading, writing, and arithmetic they were trying to teach rural youth.

At the same time, agricultural colleges and experiment stations were accumulating a body of scientific knowledge that would improve the farmer’s productivity and living standards. These professors began to consider the possibilities of indirectly reaching the farmers through teaching the farmer’s children improved agricultural methods.

The idea of starting 4-H clubs cannot be credited to one individual or institution. Instead, 4- H has resulted from many pioneer leaders. However, three people seem to have played a significant role in promoting this 4-H movement: W.B. Otwell, of Illinois, was an early (1900) sponsor of special farm work for youth. A.B. Graham introduced modern
4-H club organization and methods in Ohio in 1902. And in 1905 O.H. Benson, County
superintendent of schools in Wright County, Iowa worked out a plan of tying farm problems and record keeping in with school work.

The practice of having volunteers lead 4-H clubs was established at the beginning and continues today. Community members trusted these leaders to be good models for their children. Farm women and men, trained by county Extension agents, acted as volunteer leaders in the early clubs. Usually leaders assumed a mentoring role, rather than serving as an authoritarian figure.

Throughout history, camping held and important role in 4-H. Initially it was seen as a means of rewarding and encouraging junior leaders. Documentation dated 1907 tells of a camp for boys held that year in Missouri. Thereafter, several states began holding camps, with West Virginia leading the way in formalizing camping as a part of 4-H. By the1921, West Virginia had established a permanent campsite that is still used.

During World War II, the 4-H program again focused on raising Victory Gardens. 4-H member also grew essential war crops, raised neat animals, and canned millions of jars of fruit, vegetables, and meats. The 4-H slogan was “ Food for Freedom.”

Thus, 4-H members helped relieve the labor shortage, served as neighborhood leaders, and assisted in war related activities. It was estimated from 1943 until the end of the war, 4-H clubs produced enough food to feed a million men serving the American forces. At the end of the war, 4-H enrollment once again saw a large increase, reaching a total of 2.5 million. The performance, achievements and contributions of 4-H’ers during the war is quite possibly the proudest moment among many such moments in the history and development of the 4-H program.

The Show Ring Nightmare !!!!! 2007

2009-04-27T18:49:00.000-07:00

My first year with beef project; I had every 4-h showman’s nightmare.

OK it was my first year with a beef project I had no idea about the different breeds. I chose Saler - Angus, mostly Saler, which was a mistake. Saler is a French breed which is hot blooded, and in my case extremely wild.

I worked with my calf’s everyday and everyday it was like they were never messed with, No matter what I did. I kept working and working for months.

So when show day came around I thought I was good to go. I wasn't!
After a couple of times around the ring in showmanship the calf names John Wayne; stepped on the edge of my right boot and tripped me, then he pinned me down by my pants leg. The Judge then came over and helped me up at that point the judge ask me it I want give up and leave the ring? I said NO! A couple of hours later I had to go back in the ring with John Wayne he did a little better this time. Not really!

By the way John Wayne was the gentle one, Now it is time to show Clint Eastwood.

Here it comes, Clint was the wild one a big pain in the neck. Clint didn’t stand still at all. First he kicked another showman's comb out of her pocket and then he came within an inch of kicking the judge. Thank Goodness no one got hurt, The judge tried to touch Clint but No luck he danced and danced around, even without being able to touch Clint the judge placed him 3rd in his weigh class.
Afterward I thanked the judge for not taking me out of the ring.

Now would you like to Know what I learned from this nightmare?

1 - Saler is not a breed for a beginner; I might try Saler again when I get more experience. One thing about Salers they are a GREAT Steak, good eating.

2 - The first year; learn all the safety rules and what to do when you steer acts up.

3 - Never give up; when you are asked if you want to leave the ring say NO.

4 - If you can’t touch them you can’t judge them.

5 - Everything that could go wrong did. I learned more from what went wrong than I ever could have if it would have went right.

No matter where you are from it seems that there is one person at the fair that has a bad time with their animals, never count them out for that person just learned more that any other person there.

Neighbor Helping Neighbor ( Shoewmaker Brothers Cattle )

2009-04-23T19:16:00.000-07:00

We live in a very small town called Bliss; truly if you were to blink you would miss it. Here in the country the things that we see everyday we take for granted. Like deer running across our yard or large herd of antelope standing in the neighbor's winter wheat field grazing. Cattlemen bringing their cattle herds in off winter-feed. I never gave these sights a second thought. With in our small community we have quite a few large cattle ranches; we have Red Angus, Black Angus, Saler, and cross-bred cattle just to name a few.
The fact is if you were to type the names of these ranchers into the search engine they would pop up. If you eat beef; the product of these rancher hard work is more than likely to be on your dinner table. These Ranchers are of the old west ways, the cattle are free range they have acres and acres to graze and roam.
Just the other day while driving home it just so happened that the Shoewmaker Brothers were doing what cattle ranchers do, bring their cattle in off winter feed. That task is not a one or two man job; in fact it is a family affair. Instead of waving and driving by. We stopped and ask if we could take some pictures to share on the Internet. Ranchers are very proud of their labor of love and life style, they grow beef to feed the world.

Some of the people in these photos are family, some are friends and others are neighbors, there to help.

Too some these pictures are just another day on the ranch or farm; For those of you who live in the city I just wanted you to see that some traditions live for ever.

Neighbor helping Neighbor - United we stand divided we fall

I would like to thank the Shoewmakers for allowing us to use their family's name and photos. Also to let them know that it was very nice to meet them.

4-H meeting

2009-04-19T18:34:00.000-07:00

Today was the fourth 4- h meeting of the Hodge Podgers.
The meeting was called to order. We welcomed Brandon to the club. Logan, Hunter, and I all suggested stuff we would like to learn. Logan wanted to learn about knitting, and leather. Hunter wanted to learn about lambs and cooking. I wanted to learn more about parts of the beef and where the parts are located on the steer. Nolan, Katelyn, and I did presentation. Nolan’s was on the ruminant system. Katelyn was on methane gas, and mine was on the eight important tips when making a quilt. Helen R. gave us the definition of motivation: Something, as a need to desire, which causes a person to act; causing or having the power to cause motion. Helen explained that no matter what she does or can say would do any good if we don’t have our own Motivation.
After that the meeting was adjourned. Dillon passed out cupcake that he made himself. As our after meeting snack. The cup cakes were really good.
Our next meeting will be doing our club community service project with a picnic afterwards.

Community Clean Up Day

2009-04-19T17:13:00.000-07:00

April 18, 2009 was Wendell Idaho Community Clean Up day. I may live in Bliss but I joined the Wendell community and cleaned up their streets. It was very windy this winter and paper blew in from everywhere, the streets and town of Wendell now are clean and free of the winter mess. Thanks to all the friendly people who gave up their Saturday. After the work was done it was time to enjoy the free lunch, it was hot dog and chili. I was so hungry and so was every one else. It seem to me that everyone did a great job and had a good time to boot.
In today's rushed and hurried world it is nice to see that there are still people out there willing to give of there time, and have community Pride.

Valley Country Store 4-H and FFA Night.

2009-04-11T13:17:00.001-07:00

Valley Country Store In Jerome;
Held a 4-H and FFA Night on April 9, 2009 everyone had free pizza and soft drinks before the meeting.
There were two guest speakers; the speakers covered the feeding, and care, healthy environment, safety and pen size for Sheep, Pigs and Steers.

The Speakers covered the six classes of nutrients in feeds:
Water is used to carry nutrients to the body.
Carbohydrates like sugars, starches, and cellulose provide the largest amount of energy.
Fats are concentrated energy.
Protein is used for making and repairing muscle.
Vitamins are needed in very small amounts to assist in many body functions.
Minerals such as calcium and phosphorus are important for bone development. Other minerals help many of the body functions.

The speakers also talked about how important it is to keep the pens clean; they also talked about how Exercise should be done in the morning or evening in the summer to prevent overheating.

There was a lot of other stuff covered at this meeting; I had a great time learned a lot.

If you need help with care and feeding don’t be afraid to go in to the Jerome Country Store. The staff is very friendly. Trish and Debbie are real cool!

Apirl 5,2009 4-H Meeting

2009-04-06T17:05:00.000-07:00

Our third 4 -H meeting. Was held at Helen’s. We welcomed five new 4-h member to our club; Nolan, Dillon, Logan, Brandon and Becka. Our club now has eleven members and seems to grow with every meeting. We did Pledges and regular business, talked about what we would like to learn. Handed out fliers about a 4-H meeting at the Valley Country Store in Jerome.

We had a guest speaker Mr. Jim R. He told us about his experiences in 4-H, and how what you learn in 4-h will follow you through your life and the importance of giving your all in what ever you do.

THE 4-H PLEDGE
I pledge
my Head to clearer thinking,
my Heart to greater loyalty,
my Hands to larger service, and
my Health to better living,
for my club, my community,
my country, and my world.

2009-04-03T14:10:00.000-07:00

Today was a very sad day.
I had to say good bye to my old friend; Lucky He was 30 years old.
He was a good horse he will be missed.

Started My 2009 quilting Project

2009-03-29T13:42:00.000-07:00

I have started my 2009 quilt. I have picked the pattern, the fabric, cut the pieces and have started sewing.

Here is a little hint - it is a 1950 style quilt.

4-H meeting 3-22-09

2009-03-25T10:04:00.000-07:00

The Meeting was called to order,Pledges recited. The minutes were read and approved. There was no old Business so we moved on the new business, It was suggested the we take baked sugar free goods to rest homes as one of our Community Service Projects, and all the members were ask to think of a few more community service ideals.

Election of officers - President Cora elected for second year, Vice President Hunter and Secretary Katelyn.
Demonstrations - were given By - Cora, Title was No Stress No Tears No Problem( on record books) and Hunter, Title was - Food Value in Desert Pizza.

Demonstrations to be given at next Meeting on 4-5-09; by Katelyn and Cora.
It was moved by Hunter that the meeting be adjourned and seconded my Hannah.
Then we ate Hunters demonstration, desert pizza "it was really good".

March 21, 2009 - Steer Weigh In

2009-03-21T18:38:00.000-07:00

Today is the beginning of my 4-H Market Beef Project. This day started early we had to load my steers and take them to be weighted in and tagged. The week before weigh in I started giving my steers grain so that when weigh in was done my steers were ready to start the 149 days to the finished Market and the joy of showing my steers at the Fair.

Forest weighted - 745 pounds
Lt. Dan weighted - 765 pounds
Bubba weighted - 785 pounds

I have set there feeding schedule and I will talk, comb, practice and exercise them on a regular basis; this is the time for me and my steers to bond.
The weather here went from very cold to warn in just a few weeks, my steers are already loosing their winter coats soon they will be slick and shiny; their winter coats will come off even faster with daily brushing, combing, and bathing. I must tell you that having a steer project is not always just doing the fun stuff; you have to clean their pins, and watch to make sure that they stay healthy and if they get sick you will have to call the veterinarian.