Greetings 4-H Family!!

After two years, I'm still loving being in Stephenson County 4-H! I can't express what a joy and privilege it is to come to work each day and absolutely love what I'm doing. As some of you may know, I have also been taAking a class at Highland. I am beginning to take classes so that in January, 2008, I can start working on my Masters in Youth Development. Going back to school has been very interesting for me while I balance my work schedule, but I can honestly say I love being back in school. (I also think my parents are very happy I'm furthering my education as well.)

As we look to the new 4-H year, I can't help but think about all of the exciting things to come. New members joining the clubs, events new and old, and yes even the fair...it's less than a year away!! The new year always brings about an excitement that cannot be captured in words, but in a feeling. While the new year begins, I would like to remind you that while you may be promoting the 4-H Program, you need to make sure you follow the strict guidelines for using the 4-H name and emblem. The 4-H name and emblem is a highly valued mark within 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. Please make sure when you are using the 4-H name and emblem, you adhere to the guidelines set, please see the enclosed guide. If you ever have any questions about what you can or cannot do, please call us and ask.

Also, please remember the sooner you turn in your re-enrollment papers, the sooner you can start working on your project books for this year. Also, I would like to remind you that if you have any ideas for project clinics for this upcoming year, please call us at 235-4125. We are always looking for some new ideas to help the youth in Stephenson County!

~Pam

When signing up for your projects, don't forget about the county projects that are not offered in the Clover. This year the county projects that are available are listed on the project selection page with a check mark after them. ***Due to guidelines established by Illinois Bureau of County Fairs for the Ag Premium Fund, county projects are NOT eligible for premiums!!*** So, if you're interested in an area not listed in the Clover, be sure to look at the county projects. Anyone wishing to take Scrapbooking, please sign-up in Visual Arts. This is also a county project.

You should have received a special mailing regarding National 4-H Week activities and opportunities. Take part in as many of them as possible. We start off our new 4-H year with a blast, so be sure to join in all of this year's National 4-H Week activities! Get involved in your club's activities, our county events, and PROMOTE, PROMOTE, PROMOTE our 4-H program. Share your enthusiasm by inviting a friend to attend your next club meeting!