Seth's Aptly Titled Blog Entry

This July, I decided I was going to run for PA State 4-H Council. I didn’t really know what State Council was all about, but I just felt like it was something I had to at least attempt. And I am sure glad I did! Every past member that I have talked to has said that it had been their single most rewarding experience yet. I can’t wait to grow and hopefully get those same benefits that they did.

Also, this year I started my senior year of High School. So this means I’ve spent most of this summer tying to get my 50 hours of volunteer work in for my senior project. I have been spending my hours dressed as "Eddie the Gun Safety Eagle". Eddie Eagle is a gun safety program that is sponsored by the NRA. Unfortunately twenty five pounds of polyester eagle on a hot summer afternoon isn't my idea of a good time. But I know that this program has benefited countless youth across the nation, since its development in 1988. I am so thankful that my 4-H leader for recommending it to me.

Despite the fact that summer is gone and fall is coming, closely followed by winter; winter means that my Dead Eye shooting 4-H club is going to be starting up soon. Dead Eye is not a club that runs all year round like many other ones do; so I am one of those few people that actually looks forward to December and January.

I'm Seth Jones, PA 4-H State Council VP of Internal Affairs, signing out.

God Bless.

Coming Back

Last year I spent my sophomore year of high school in Brazil as a foreign exchange student, which taught me to appreciate what I do in life and to do the most I can possibly do. While I was in Brazil I thought a lot about my 4-H clubs and the opportunities that they gave me. I thought it would be a good idea to run for council, I was the first person from my county, McKean county, to be on Pennsylvania State 4-H Council.

As I got back I have gotten back into the swing of 4-H and am now the president of McKean county council. One very inspiring person has passed away in our 4-H, Mr. Larry Stratton. He has been involved in 4-H since the 1940's. I have always looked up to him as a leader and a friend. So I initiated an award called the Larry Stratton award because he was such and inspiring person, we thought it would be appropriate.

Council is a challenge to balance with school, friends, sports, family and everything else we do in our daily lives. But I believe it will be a very rewarding experience to have. I am looking forward to a great year with all the new people I will meet and my new council friends that I can trust and ask questions without being judged.

All the Best,

Steve McFall
2010/2011 Sentinel

A Whirlwind of Adventure

These last two months have been such an adventure for me. The start of August meant State Achievement Days was just around the corner. I was getting prepared and nervous at the same time, knowing that I was running for state council. This was the first year that the 4-Hers running for state council would have to give a campaign speech. This speech was one of the hardest speeches I have ever given, and it definitely took me out of my comfort zone. That following day I found out I made it, I am the new 2010-2011 Pennsylvania 4-H State Council Secretary. Little did I know, state council would continue to take me out of my comfort zone.

With just being inducted into office, I was ready to head off to my first week of college. I am currently a freshman at Pennsylvania College of Technology, majoring in Baking and Pastry Arts. It was hard at first to adjust to the college life but I slowly got into the flow of things. Now that I am taking on College and Council my responsibilities have doubled. The State Council training was the first major challenge. It was long, tiring, and information overload! But the six other council members and I made it through the long days, we have learned so much about each other throughout that weekend, and we will continue to build our friendships.

After the training the work for council really had begun. To start off I attended the 4-H Tailgate which was a new experience for me. It was cool to see all the donors of 4-H, and I was able to meet a few of them. I spoke to one couple (before it was game time), and I asked them how they got involved in 4-H? The lady I spoke to said "she is a 4-H leader and they used to have different clubs for different activities". I asked her what kind of activities, her reply was "roller skating, bowling, .... and even stilt walking! I couldn't believe it, I guess 4-H really does take people to new heights (literally). It is awesome that 4-H can make that much of an impact.

September just flew by and National 4-H week is almost here. With me being on State Council this is the week to shine! I am getting ready to participate in National Youth Science Day which will be held at Penn State on October 6th. I will also be giving a presentation at Loyalsock Valley Elementary School, this will be for all the 4th graders and I will be talking about what 4-H is and some of the the opportunities in 4-H. I am excited to spread the word about 4-H and what the program means to me. This truly is an opportunity of a life time and so far, State Council has definitely been a whirlwind of adventure!

State Council Secretary
~Samantha Gstalder~

Another Chapter Begins

As my last years in 4-H I figured I would just do the same old things. Go to the fair, attend meetings, and go to camp. But this year is going to be way different. I decided to become a State Council Leader and make something different happen. We all met, a group of kids from all over Pennsylvania and had no clue about each other. At our first time together, at training weekend, we really got to know each other and are now good friends. Now I have a new group of friends to ask for advice and can trust to help me. With a busy year ahead of us we pushed through the weekend and moved onto new challenges.
As my 4-H year continues I get to travel to Georgia for National Congress. This is a new experience and cannot wait for it. Our regional camp is coming up and I can't wait to start planning for a great week of fun. As this new chapter starts I can only imagine all of the good times to come this year on State 4-H Council!

As Old Journeys End…New Ones Are Waiting To Begin

The high school years have came to an end for me and the fears of closure to 4-H came with graduation. I still had another year but with being hours away at college I knew I was going to have to take my name off several activities I help with in our county. Then I took the challenge! Starting college was not a big enough thrill for me, with my last year being in 4-H I wanted to take it to the limit. I ran for Pa 4-H State Council, a challenge...yes, a thrill....yes, questioning thoughts...of course. I knew I wanted to be on council, every year always returning to SLC I would talk to the council members and they would always say you should run for council, normally forgetting about it until the next event or missing the deadline or fearing to accept the task itself was always those barriers for me. But this year I knew if the steps weren't taken the regret of the unknown would be with me far past my 4-H years. In August I took stepping outside the comfort zone to a new level, speaking in front of 800 of my peers, leaders, and educators was the task that awaited. Was I nervous, no....I mean not until my name was called to give my speech. I did my best, I gave my presentation, I gave it my all in the interview and I think it paid off. My name is Logan Hall and I am YOUR 2010 - 2011 Pa 4-H State Council President. My term got on its way, along with other council members we helped at Ag Progress Days, attended and bonded at training weekend, (Sorry Mya the girls are gone and yea I guess you can say bromance at its best plus two girls haha ), and the Keystone Tailgate at PSU are just the very beginning activities I have taken part in. It is all starting to take full swing now, college, state council, family, friends. Post it notes, well they may have became my best friend. I cant wait to represent PA 4-H for the next year and get to know the other council members better as well as the entire 4-H Community. Oh and yea State Council benefits already took place too...PSU Game WE ARE PENN STATE. Getting to experience a person's first PSU Football game is priceless and unforgettable. Thanks Rebecca it was well worth rockin out the brown dress shoes and tan pants for it. Well PA 4-H I can't wait to represent each and everyone of you with the rest of council at all the state and local events. Let the journey begin 2010 - 2011 council!

Pa 4-H State Council President,
Logan Hall

...not quite the end

It is hard to believe that only 10 years ago I began my journey as a 4-Her. It seems like just yesterday I was running around the barns with all my friends at the Clarion County fair...and making new ones along the way. As I continue and soon end my journey through 4-H I continue to make good friends and more amazing memories. As the fair week comes to an end I realize that my time as a 4-Her is also drawing to an end. But I don't think of it as the end...just another stepping stone in my journey to becoming...a "grown up". Because when I "grow up" I want to be a 4-H leader! I want kids to have the amazing experience I've had. And while I haven't been able to fill up 4 paragraphs. I hope that everyone who reads this will realize just how much 4-H has meant to me and always will!
For the last time as
2010 4-H State Council Secretary,
Rachel Gruver

It's not forever

This is not forever... It may be my last post as a State Council Member but this will most certainly not be the end of 4-H in my Life. I've begun my journey as Adult Volunteer in Crawford County. It's only a matter of time before I have a club of my own to Lead and encourage.

State Days which is only in a few days will be the last event for the 2010 council as a council. So if you are attending you better be ready to have a TON OF FUN!!! the Green Gala is gonna rock! You're going to have fun attending all your events, meeting people from around the state, and chillen with The Coolest Girls in Pennsylvania, The 2010 State 4-H Council Girls that is. =)
Remember, like the Black Eyed Peas say in their one song... To Live it Up!

This month I've been promoting 4-H around the county. I've painted my car again as well as others and have helped with a few local fundraisers. This summer has especially been a special one for me and 4-H because I've found myself sharing my story as well as others 4-H stories of how the program impacted our lives. I did some volunteering this month of July. I feel I especially made a difference in one of my elders lives when I volunteered to go on a trip to walmart. I was paired with him and needless to say he was so excited that he spent all his money in the first 10 minutes that we arrived. So I improvised. We tried on hats and sunglasses and we sang some camp songs (The Lemme Song!!!) and we played some camp games too like Squirt! Vincent said this was the best time he's had with anyone at Walmart.

For me, 4-H has encouiraged me to be outgoing like this example, and think quickly on my feet. It has helped me in the workplace as well. I recently had a promotion and I know my time on council helped me with my interview skills as well as just my people/proffesional skills in general.

4-H has made such a difference in my life, and I hope anyone who was a shy 10 year old kid like I was, has a parent like mine that will begin this program with their child because it will really make a difference. I owe my accomplishments to this program. I reccomend it to anyone! And anyone interestred in making a difference and representing Pennsylvania remember to apply for State 4-H Council at State Days!

See you all there, and remember to stay safe during all your summer activities.

To my fellow Council members, This is not the end, but only the beginning of the greatest days of our lives!!

It has been truly Wonderful,

Jamie Forinash

2010 Council Vice President of Operations

So Long, Farewell

Hey PA!
It's hard to believe that this is my last Council blog entry and in less than a week I will be hanging up my green jacket for good.

July 7th was my region's Teen Day Away. We played carnival-themed games throughout the day and had time to hang out with other teens.

This month Council had a Face to Face meeting where we did a lot of preparation for State Days. We finished our scripts for Opening Ceremonies, practiced daily scripts, and started decorations. Also in the afternoon we watched all your video entries for the contest. We saw some great videos, but you will have to come to State Days to see the winners revealed! Council has an exciting schedule while all of you are enroute to University Park; we have an appointment with Penn State President Graham Spanier, among others! We promise that Opening Ceremonies will be entertaining and full of sparkle! We are also excited to see how our new selection process for the next Council will work with the new voting system.

Sadly this is also the 2010 Council's final event as the Induction Ceremony will now take place at the conclusion of State Days. This has been one of the greatest experiences of my life and I wouldn't change a thing. I know that every Council member before me has said this and I probably didn't believe them then, but being on Council has changed my life. It's not as hard for me to start a conversation with someone I don't know and my time management skills are better than they were before! I recommend Council to anyone who is really passionate about 4-H.

I wish the best to my fellow teammates; they are some of the greatest people in the world and I'm proud to call them my friends! I love you all!

I can't wait to see you all at State Days!

For the last time, in the spirit of 4-H,
Jeanette Blank
State Council President

Goodbyes

July has flown by and as we approach August I only have a few days left in office. Last year I was asked to be on the 2010 interim council. It took me some time to think about it but I agreed to do council just once more. I had the chance to attend the State leadership conference in January where I was inducted back into council. As the year went on the team went from being team members to being best friends. We have our share of funny jokes and some will make me laugh to the day. I know as I close this term our council has become strong young women. We share moments of laughter, and have been shoulders to cry on when we needed to just talk about something.
This month I went to a council visit where I promoted state days and also penny wars. They have been collecting pennies and some silver change to bring to state days. I went to my county fair where I did a presentation on my experience on council and a little about council to help promote it to the kids. The adults that attended liked that I talked about my experiences that way it gave the kids an idea of what goes on while serving 4-H.
The council team got together to finish our plans with state days. It was a long but successful day as we accomplished a lot! As the finishing touches will be added when we get to state college next week but we got a lot of the major details done. The Green Gala as the theme is a great way to show off talent and with the launch of the video contest. Members that submitted videos are in the chance to win $100 to $150 for their county! How exciting is it to win money to help your county! I would be excited! Open calls for state council applications are also being taken at state days. This is new this year as members can apply at state days to be on council.
I have finished the scrapbook and hope that as it gets passed to the advisor it can show other councils what we have done in 2010. We have been able to meet some amazing people over the year and the scrapbook can help show what we have done as a council.
As my time in council comes to an end, I wish the new council lots of luck as you start your journey as a 4-H state council member. You will represent an amazing program that helps the children. Where that green jacket with pride and promote the 4-H program around the state. Don’t judge your fellow council members before you get to know them. Work as a team and become friends. You never know you could end up becoming best friends by the end of the term. Just remember….. You are the face of 4-H. Serve them proud!
As I hang up my jacket for the last time, I hope the new council wears there’s with pride! I wish my fellow council members the best of luck on their journey’s, where ever life will take them!

Justine Bush
Historian/news reporter

Hanging up the Jacket

When I signed up for 4-H nine years ago I had no idea that I would be sitting here tonight writting my last blog as a state officer! Its been a CRAZY past year and a half! Over the year I changed SO much as a person!. I saw myself showing leadership skills in both the team and in all my other activities. I would honestly never be the person I am today without the experiences I have had as a council member. Traveling the state and getting to make friends with the rest of the team are moments I would never trade for anything in the world! Council has honestly helped me find myself when I didn't even know I was lost.

I told myself if I was asked to do it again I would say yes in a heartbeat. So in July when asked to serve a half term to help with the transition between councils I knew yes was my only answer. In January I headed to State Leadership Conference again and this time came home Vice President of Events! It was sad saying goodbye to Laura, Alex, and Jess but I have had a great time becoming new friends with Justine and Rachel!

Over the year, you the 4-H members. have seen the put together, serious council team always ready for the next task. However, I must say behind the curtain there is alot of craziness that goes on. We have our share of laughs and fun. We have countless inside jokes, laughed at our "dumb" moments, and even grew closer as we became the shoulders we each could cry on.

For those of you who are applying for council my best of luck to you. My advice is to never shut your eyes for a minute because you don't want to miss anything. Take all the brick walls you may have up down and be open to let council change you as a leader and as a person! You are representing an AMAZING program and should always be proud. Trust me, if you take your office seriously you will be wanting to never take that hot green jacket off. You will get the chance to be taught by some of the best people you'll ever meet. Take their advice to heart. Be friends with your team-you may find your new best friend or sister/brother at heart.

In less than a week I will drive to State College for the last time as an officer and hang up my now ,well broken in jacket. But I will forever take with me the memories, friendships, and lessons I have made. 4-H will always have a special place in my heart where ever my life takes me!

Good Luck to everyone next week!

For the last time your State VPE,

Christy Lambert

Blue Skies

There has been a lot going on this month Of June.... I'm sure everyone has been very busy across the state visiting family, going to the beach, having campfires, bailing hay, and getting a tan. These are some things I have been up to as well. I'm still working on my tan but hopefully by State Days I'll have a nice one. Remember to get your Health forms in for State Days and to finish signing up for the different categories you wish to display your talents.

I'm definately ready for State Days, and I can't wait to see the possible council inductees! If you are interested in becoming a State Council member please fill out the application as soon as possible. Applications are also available at State Days. I enjoyed my terms on Council and I recommend it to anybody who cares about the program and would like to make a difference. If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact me at ps4hc.jforinash@gmail.com. I'd be more than happy to help in any way i can.

I hope you all submitted a video for the State video contest. I saw a couple and if I might add they look great! This month of June I helped out with the presentation contest in Crawford County. I'd just like to say good work and congratulations to all the participants and youth that placed. You all did very well and you could definately tell how hard you practiced on your speeches. Some of them were very informational and I enjoyed them. In Crawford County this month a couple members from their county council and myself promoted 4-H by writing on our vehicles with window paint and driving around the city of Meadville. We handed out pamphlets at a local eatery and answered questions about the program hoping to increase enrollment.

Remember to stay hydrated while you are out on your adventures this next month. Be careful on the 4th with the sparklers or other festive activities. And remember to Laugh and Smile uncontrollably, It's Summer, so enjoy it.

Stay cool,

Jamie Forinash
Vice President of Operations

Sunshine and Summertime....

Hey PA 4-H!
Wow this has been a busy month! Between Council, 4-H responsibilities in my county, my internship with Extension, and an additional 4-H internship, things have been crazy for me.
On June 3, I visited the Union County Teen Council during their monthly meeting. I talked with them about State Days, how to be on Council, and led a teambuilding activity that they all enjoyed.
On June 5, Justine and I traveled to Philadelphia for Farm to Table Day. There we did a soap-making project with the kids and talked to them about 4-H.
Council also had a Conference Call this month where we did planning for State Days. Our Opening Ceremonies script is in the works and we hope you will enjoy it!
During the week of the 20th, I attended Camp Brule as a counselor along with other staff and campers from Columbia, Lycoming, Montour, Northumberland, Snyder, and Union Counties. It was a great week! It was bittersweet though for me because it was my last year as a counselor. During the week I served as one of two Key Counselors, sometimes called Junior Camp Directors. Part of my responsibility was to teach a workshop for the Campers-at-Training (CATs). They will hopefully all be counselors next year.
We can't wait to see you all at State Days and look forward to seeing those entries for the video contest! Remember to bring your spare change for the Penny Wars and keep saving those soda tabs for the Ronald McDonald House at SLC!
Please check out our NEW Council homepage: http://ps4-hc.cas.psu.edu , our newsletter, The Clover Clipboard and our Facebook page called Pennsylvania 4-H.

In the spirit of 4-H,
Jeanette Blank
PA State Council President