4-H News

June 25, 2015 by Staff Report

Thompson Ledge Dairymen

Thompson Ledge Dairymen met on June 13 for pizza party meeting.

Members discussed quality assurance and watched a video on handling our cows and dairy basket. They also discussed themes for the fair. A meeting was set up to make tie blankets for a local charity. (Submitted by Matthew Burton, news reporter)

Geauga Caprine Kids

Geauga Caprine Kids 4-H Club is out of school and ready for summer. Our animals are growing as the Great Geauga County Fair nears. We are shaving goats and are conditioning all of our animals for summer. The frequent rain showers have made pen and paddock conditions messy. We are cleaning more often and it is a challenge to keep bedding dry.

To make matters worse, the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) has advised us that no poultry projects will be going to the fair this year due to the threat of avian flu. Although there are no reported cases of avian flu to date in Ohio, we must be cautious.

Avian flu is very contagious and can affect all poultry, including ducks, chickens, turkeys and geese. Although we are all disappointed, we understand the risks. Our 4-H poultry advisors are reviewing options for the poultry meat projects, which usually go to auction at the fair. Hopefully, there will be a solution that allows these projects to proceed. I will keep you posted. (Submitted by Sam Adams, news reporter)

Geauga Dairymen

Geauga Dairymen held their last meeting on June 13 at a member’s house. A donation was sent to sponsor a family for the Family-a-Fair community service.

The safety poster contest was discussed. The health and safety officers were encouraged to participate.

Members were reminded about skill-a-thon on July 18 from 9-11 a.m. at the Junior Fair building. Members were given study materials and encouraged to start working on their project books.

The dairy basket theme of “Picnic” was decided last meeting and member discussed this meeting what items should be included, such as dairy grilling recipes, small cooler and picnic basket. More discussion will be held next meeting.

The Junior Fair T-shirt design contest was mentioned; submissions are due by July 1. The club voted to purchase 30 presale milkshake coupons to send with buyer letters and thank-you’s. The club also voted on getting new T-shirts for fair. Members are to bring design ideas to the next meeting.

After the meeting, members practiced skill-a-thon and enjoyed a pool party with a cookout.

The next meeting is scheduled for July 18 at 5 p.m. at the Niehus’ house for another pool party, cookout and mock dairy show for member to practice. (Submitted by Emma Niehus, news reporter)