Date Change!
PEND OREILLE COUNTY: Virtual 4-H Youth Showcase – Entry Deadline is September 28, 2020
Since both the Pend Oreille County and the Washington State Fairs have been cancelled this year due to COVID-19, Pend Oreille County 4-H is hosting an online show for its youth to exhibit their projects. Please see our Virtual 4-H Youth Showcase web page (click here) for more information.
If you have not already expressed interest and would like to participate, please contact:
Jessica Simon
jessica@knightconst.com
509-879-7355
4-H Leader Council – Next Meeting
The next Leader Council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 17 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will take place via Zoom. The Zoom link and reminder will be sent the day before the Leader Council meeting.
THE RESULTS ARE IN!!
ZOOM’S GOT TALENT – WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2!
Youth Participation Requested!!
Survey of Youth and Animal Interaction During COVID-19
We want to know more about how young people are spending their time during social isolation from COVID-19, especially when it comes to youth and animals! Please consider asking youth age 7- 18 in your household to complete this brief survey.
https://wsu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8AD7icrMp6v9WMR
¡Queremos saber más sobre cómo los jóvenes pasan su tiempo durante el aislamiento social de COVID-19, especialmente cuando se trata de jóvenes y animales! Por favor considere pedirle a los jóvenes de 7 a 18 años en su hogar que completen esta breve encuesta.
https://wsu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8AD7icrMp6v9WMR
“On Target Tuesdays” Workshops Coming – Starting In October!
Please click here to register: https://wsu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_7KOfRul9TTm0Uewf7mxLuA.
IMPORTANT REMINDER Regarding WSU Extension Adult/Youth Interactions during COVID-19
As we are all in communication via technology with youth at this time, I would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone of WSU Extension’s policy on interactions. Under this policy, AT NO TIME should one adult be meeting or communicating with youth WITHOUT the presence of another adult. This policy pertains to Zoom conferences, telephone conversations, text messages, social media posts, etc. To facilitate communication, make certain to cc another adult on written communications, and invite another adult to be present during virtual meetings. The second adult is recommended to be a WSU volunteer; other adults can serve in this role if you’re in a pinch.
Jana S. Ferris
Associate Professor
Volunteer Specialist, WSU Extension
425-595-2950
2020 Washington State 4-H Fair Board Positions Open! Apply Now!!
Tom Gwin, State 4-H Fair Manager, has shared a list of the open positions on the State 4-H Fair Board. A link to that list is here.
Trustee Guidelines and Applications can be found on the State 4-H Fair website: https://extension.wsu.edu/4h/fairs/state-4-h-fair/
Ag Of The Middle Business Accelerator Cohort Now Forming!
Ecotrust is now accepting applications for the 2020-2022 Ag of the Middle Accelerator Program! To make this program accessible during the COVID-19 pandemic, we are going 100% virtual! This is a two-year, hands-on, capacity-building and business development program. It is designed to help cultivate a thriving cohort of mid-sized, independent farms, ranches, and fishing operations in the region that spans from Northern California, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska.
This business development program provides instruction from experts on subjects such as business structure, finance, taxation, accounting, credit, market development, food justice and more. Designed to fit the demands of the producers we serve, trainings and one-on-one technical assistance sessions are scheduled between December and March so producers can focus on their businesses during the busy growing season.
The goal is a modern-day “ag of the middle” sector that can supply regional markets with products raised in ways good for land, soil, water, people, and animals. Through this program, participants will have the opportunity to get dedicated, customized business support from an array of service providers who understand the unique needs of independent, smaller-scale producers who want to grow with integrity.
Interested in becoming a participant in the business accelerator program? Please complete the program application by October 2, 2020 and visit our website for more details.
An informational session will be held on Monday, September 14, 2020 from 9-10 am to answer your questions and provide an overview of the program. To attend the info session, please register here by September 10th.
Application & Program Timeline:
- August 24th – application period opens.
- September 14th– program info session (Webinar).
- October 2nd– application deadline.
- October 16th– announcements of application acceptance will commence.
- December 1st– program kickoff
If you have any questions about the program, or how to message the program to your network, please contact Tyson Rasor (trasor@ecotrust.org or 503-467-0783) or Yolimar Rivera Vázquez (yolimar@ecotrust.org or 503-467-0819).
You’re Invited to the 2020 Poultry Institute!
2020 Poultry Institute
Tuesday, October 27, 2020
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (PDT)
The Avian Health and Food Safety Laboratory is excited to announce that the 2020 Poultry Institute will be a web-based event. This conference is intended for veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and producers. We have an exciting group of speakers lined up, and a full schedule should be available shortly.
Registration opens September 1 and will be $15 per person. Continuing education credit has been approved for veterinarians and veterinary technicians.
Questions? Contact Dr. Laura Chen
Email: waddlahl@vetmed.wsu.edu
Phone: 253-445-4537
The 2021 Sewing & Stitchery Expo Is Going Virtual!
Join us from the comfort of your own home February 24-28!
The 2021 Sewing & Stitchery Expo is coming to you live – virtually, in your home or studio! In the interest of the health and safety of our attendees, vendors, teachers, and staff, we’re going virtual so you can shop, learn, and experience right from your sewing room!
We’ll miss seeing everyone in person, browsing our incredible vendor floor, snacking on scones, and all the amazing things that make Expo such a special event. This year, we’ll see your smiling faces online in our virtual classes, on the virtual vendor floor, and of course on the Free Stage!
We’ll have more information and details on classes, tickets, and our online platform soon, so mark your calendars now for the 2021 Virtual Sewing & Stitchery Expo. Bookmark us at sewexpo.com for easy access, and follow us on your favorite social platform for updates.
We’re here to help! If you have questions, please let us know.
Email us at sewexpo@wsu.edu.
Washington State Junior Horse Show and Yakima County 4-H Showcase Present the 2020 Virtual Horse Show and Showcase
The Washington State Jr Horse Show, in conjunction with The Yakima County 4-H Showcase, presents our 2020 Virtual Horse Show and Showcase!
We thank those from throughout Eastern Washington, who have given wholehearted interest and community support. Washington State Junior Horse Show, Inc., extends a hearty welcome to exhibitors, and friends to our 58th Annual Show. Washington State Junior Horse Show is sponsored by Washington State Junior Horse Show, Inc. and Washington State University
Registration dates are August 10, 2020 through September 14, 2020
Read the entire Washington State Junior Horse Show Statement letter by clicking here. This letter includes information on classes offered, as well as contact information for questions.
Click on this link for the entry information: http://washingtonstatejrhorseshow.fairentry.com/
ALL Links to 4-H Virtual Showcase Judges Training Session Recordings are Now Available!
Have you thought about becoming a judge for 4-H? Are you already a judge for 4-H? Have you been through the basics of judging for 4-H? Can you make a successful 4-H comment sandwich? We are looking for current 4-H judges and new volunteers who have subject matter knowledge who are willing to learn, judge, and interact with 4-H youth virtually.
We have a few class sessions (now recorded) that are for everyone like “Technology Basics” and “Basics of Judging for 4-H” then we move into subject matter sessions.
Below is the outline for dates/times (recordings) and short descriptions for the training sessions. We will be collecting registration/contact information from those who wish to participate and creating a list to share around the state. Session 7, our final session updates/times, which will be a round table discussion format, and how to register for that zoom session is below.
To register/sign-up please follow the directions below for each session you wish to participate in (or follow the link for the recordings). Once registered (or have viewed the recordings)- If you want to be on the WA State 4-H Judges list please e-mail Pam Watson at pwatson@wsu.edu with the subject line: Virtual 4-H Judges Training. In the body of the e-mail please list the sessions and subject matter/species/area of interest (this can be one e-mail if participating in multiple sessions). Please register 12 hours in advance of the training(s) you wish to participate in to receive the password for participation. Each session (or time) has a different zoom address and password or recording link.
The timeline is as follows:
Recorded! 1st Session for all participants- Technology Basics, Sat., July 18th, 10 AM-noon
Recording- about 2 hours- https://wsu.zoom.us/rec/share/_MBEIbfu025OWZXk0x7ZB7IhM9vdaaa81nQb8_VZyRpOQTtT_TbKot_0i9oGq1K0?startTime=1595091927000
If you would like to be added to the WA State 4-H Virtual Judges list after taking your training sessions please contact Pam Watson at pwatson@wsu.edu with “Virtual 4-H Judge” in the subject line.
Recorded! 2nd Session for all participants – Basics of Judging for 4-H, Sat., July 18th, 1 -3 PM
Recording- about 2 hours
If you would like to be added to the WA State 4-H Virtual Judges list after taking your training sessions please contact Pam Watson at pwatson@wsu.edu with “Virtual 4-H Judge” in the subject line.
Recorded! 3rd Session Performance Animals, Sun., July 19th, 1-3 PM (horse, dog, llama, goat-trail) – This meeting had breakout rooms!
Recording- about 1 hour, 20 min., includes general session and llama/goat breakout discussion (about last 30 min.)
Horse breakout discussion- see document here; session not recorded
Dog breakout discussion https://emailwsu-my.sharepoint.com/personal/tracie_hanson_wsu_edu/Documents/Attachments/zoom_0.mp4
If you would like to be added to the WA State 4-H Virtual Judges list after taking your training sessions please contact Pam Watson at pwatson@wsu.edu with “Virtual 4-H Judge” in the subject line and list the subject areas you would like to be listed under, this can be one e-mail for multiple areas.
Recorded! 4th Session Large Livestock, Sunday, July 19th, 3-5 PM (beef, sheep, swine, goat, dairy cattle)-
Recording- about 1 hour and 40 min., all species stayed together for general discussion and more.
If you would like to be added to the WA State 4-H Virtual Judges list after taking your training sessions please contact Pam Watson at pwatson@wsu.edu with “Virtual 4-H Judge” in the subject line and list the subject areas you would like to be listed under, this can be one e-mail for multiple areas.
Recorded! 5th Session – Small Animals, Tues., July 21st, 6-8 PM (poultry, rabbit, cavy, cat, pocket pet/world of small animals)-
Recording – about 1 hour and 55 min., all species stayed together for general discussion and more.
If you would like to be added to the WA State 4-H Virtual Judges list after taking your training sessions please contact Pam Watson at pwatson@wsu.edu with “Virtual 4-H Judge” in the subject line and list the subject areas you would like to be listed under, this can be one e-mail for multiple areas.
Recorded! 6th Plus Extended Sessions-Static Display items/Still life, Public Pres., Arts, Environmental, STEM, Textiles, Foods, EDU Posters, Activities, Contests and more!
Saturday, July 25th, start time 10 AM-noon, and 1 PM -4 PM and order of presentations listed below
Session 6A part 1 – 10-11 AM, Foods – Preservation and single entries/ cooking contests/ activities
Session 6A part 2 11 AM- Noon, Textile Arts – needle arts, single entries, quilting and contests/activities
Recording – about 2 hours, stayed together the entire time
If you would like to be added to the WA State 4-H Virtual Judges list after taking your training sessions please contact Pam Watson at pwatson@wsu.edu with “Virtual 4-H Judge” in the subject line and list the subject areas you would like to be listed under, this can be one e-mail for multiple areas.
Session 6B Part 1 – 1-2 PM, Garden Science, Natural Resources, STEM, and Shooting Sports
Recording – about 1 hour, stayed together the entire time
If you would like to be added to the WA State 4-H Virtual Judges list after taking your training sessions please contact Pam Watson at pwatson@wsu.edu with “Virtual 4-H Judge” in the subject line and list the subject areas you would like to be listed under, this can be one e-mail for multiple areas.
Session 6B Part 2 2-3 PM, Educational displays/posters, Public Presentations/Demonstrations/General activities/Contests
Recording – about 1 hour, stayed together the entire time
If you would like to be added to the WA State 4-H Virtual Judges list after taking your training sessions please contact Pam Watson at pwatson@wsu.edu with “Virtual 4-H Judge” in the subject line and list the subject areas you would like to be listed under, this can be one e-mail for multiple areas.
Session 6B Part 3 3-4 PM, Expressive Arts – Photography/videography, fine art, arts and crafts
Recording – about 1 hour and 15 min., stayed together the entire time
If you would like to be added to the WA State 4-H Virtual Judges list after taking your training sessions please contact Pam Watson at pwatson@wsu.edu with “Virtual 4-H Judge” in the subject line and list the subject areas you would like to be listed under, this can be one e-mail for multiple areas.
Final Session, Session 7, optional – 4-H Virtual Judges Round Table – All speakers and participants may attend.
Tuesday, Aug. 4th, 6-7:30 PM
Recording – about 1 hour and 15 min., stayed together the entire time
Please share this training event far and wide as we invite experienced and new volunteers to train/re-train as judges as we all navigate our new virtual world of 4-H Shows!
For those who have made contact or those who participated live, you will be receiving an e-mail survey shortly. Thank you for participating!
Pam Watson, M.Ed.
WSU Lewis County Extension, 4-H
pwatson@wsu.edu
COVID-19 RESOURCES
National 4-H Council Shares Survey on COVID-19 Effects on Youth Mental Health and Loneliness
A new survey commissioned by National 4 H Council, and conducted by the Harris Poll, finds that 7 in 10 teens are struggling with their mental health in the wake of COVID-19. More than half of those surveyed shared that the pandemic has increased their feelings of loneliness, with 64 percent believing it will have a lasting impact on their mental health. The survey, conducted in May 2020, is among the first to examine the impact this unprecedented public health crisis has had on U.S. teens. The aims of the survey are to help practitioners gain a deeper understanding of the state of teen mental health and to gather teen perspectives on the issue as 4-H aims to empower young people with the resources and support to address their health and well-being head on.
Read the full article at https://4-h.org/media/new-survey-finds-7-in-10-teens-are-struggling-with-mental-health/
WSU Extension 4-H Steps Up to State Of Washington Lieutenant Governor’s Office’s Mask Making Challenge!
The State of Washington Lieutenant Governor’s Office recently issued a Mask Making Challenge , and information went out about the challenge last week – but not in Tuesday News, unfortunately! WSU Extension Offices have been designated to act as distribution points for the Mask Kits (Which include enough fabric for 10 masks) and for them to advertise and recruit for this challenge.
A link to the information flyer distributed for the Mask Making Challenge is here. A link to the suggested instructions for making masks is here.
Thank you for your support and efforts toward this project!
Handout from WSDA Animal Services Livestock Inspection Program Addresses Brand Inspection Requirements for Cattle in Youth Market Sales
The WSDA Animal Services Livestock Inspection Program has created a handout with regard to brand inspections required for cattle that change ownership as it pertains to 4-H kids/fairs.
The document can be found by clicking here.
WSDA Shares Update on Out-of-State Pigs Coming to Washington Due to COVID-19
The Washington State Department of Agriculture, Animal Services Division has recently released a document regarding the increased importing of pigs to Washington due to COVID-19 related closures and production slowdowns. The document, titled “What you should know about out-of-state pigs in Washington State” is available by clicking here.
WASHINGTON STATE RESOURCE GUIDE FOR PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS: Caring for Your Family During COVID-19
The Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families has created a resource for parents during COVID-19. The WASHINGTON STATE RESOURCE GUIDE FOR PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS: Caring for Your Family During COVID-19 was developed to help parents and their families navigate the pandemic and the days to follow. The publication is available at https://www.dcyf.wa.gov/sites/default/files/pubs/FS_0039.pdf.
WSDA Shares Recommendations for Reducing COVID-19 Risk in Groups of People Caring for Groups of Animals
The Washington State Department of Agriculture has recently made some recommendations regarding reducing COVID-19 risk in animal care. The documents are available by clicking on the title below:
Cleaning and Disinfection Protocol
Group Livestock Care Instructions
Keeping Your Distance to Stay Safe
With the number of COVID-19 cases increasing every day, psychologists offer insights on how to separate yourself from others, while still getting the social support you need.
https://www.apa.org/practice/programs/dmhi/research-information/social-distancing
A Reminder: COVID-19 Resources Available from WSU Extension
The WSU Extension COVID-19 Updates and Resources page is updated as new information becomes available. The Link to the page is https://extension.wsu.edu/covid-19
Additional Equine Resources Added to Horse Project Page
Extension Horses COVID-19 Infographics for Equine Owners and Facilities have been added to the Horse Project page. They are located under the “Other Resources and Websites” link and are intended to provide general information.
Everyday Actions to Help Prevent the Spread of Respiratory Viruses
Here are everyday actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses:
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
A WSU hand-washing video can be accessed here.
There’s also this link to the Washington State Department of Health’s ‘WashYourHandsingTon” web page.
WSU has established an informational website that is being frequently updated – it can be found here. It has general information from the Center for Disease Control and the Washington State Department of Health.
Because of differing levels of outbreaks and risk of exposure to covid-19 and the coronavirus in different communities, please refer to your local health department and your local County Extension Office for information applicable to your community.