Skip to main content

4-H

4-H'ers display their hard work at Genesee County livestock auction

By Zachary Lee


(Tyler Jirovec with his Grand Prize steer.)

Wallets heavy, hands at the ready; enthusiastic buyers weren't holding much back Thursday night. Buyers showed up in numbers for the 4-H livestock auction ready to see the best lambs, goats, hogs, and steer available at the Genesee County Fair.

Bill Hayes, owner/president of Turnbull Heating & Air Conditioning, won the Market Steer Overall Project Champion and Jr. Showmanship Champion for $2.20 a pound or an estimated $2,800. He then donated the steer right back to the 4-H; the champion steer weighed in at 1,390 pounds and was raised by Oakfield resident Tyler Jirovec. 

"I come to the auction every year to support these good kids, parents and staff," Hayes said.  

This is the first year the 4-H has allowed you to donate your winnings back to the program.

"I can see myself donating the animal back to 4-H, the program is so great," said Genesee County resident Bill Baskin. "I come every year, haven't missed one in a long time."

The 4-H champions are determined by a point system; points are added up based on your participation in 4-H meetings, community service, your overall placement, and showmanship. The individual with the most points by the Genesee County Fair date is Project Champion; the winner gets a large ribbon to show off.

"If you win Grand or Reserved Project Champion when you step into that ring, everyone wants to bid on you," said Tim Adams, 4-H swine club leader.

The 4-H Swine Club raises show hogs. The club has around 20 members ranging in age 8 to 19 years old. At initial weigh-in, a student's hog cannot weigh more than 80 pounds and must weigh between 210 and 285 pounds by the time of the fair. Adams says he donates roughly four hours of his time to the 4-H daily, and during fair week even more.

This year was special for the Swine Club, members were able to get rid of their wood pens and install metal ones, which are more sanitary for the animals and people.

"4-H is so much more than just marketing animals; it's a small family," Adams said.

The 4-H takes devotion and a lot of effort on the students' part. Some kids spend two or three hours a day grooming, walking and feeding their show animals. The learning experience doesn't stop at the children either; parents learn a lot about what it takes to raise a hog, cattle, goat or lamb.

"It's nice to have kids and friends to learn and grow with you," said Kevin Bezon, parent of Tucker and uncle of Leah and Ashton Bezon -- all 4-H participants.

"I easily spend three or four hours a day to the animals," said Tucker Bezon, proud owner of an impressive 1,208-pound steer.

Fourth-year 4-H participant Shianne Foss from Corfu placed fourth overall with a 1,300-pound steer. Much like other 4-H'ers, Shianne doesn't just go to the Genesee County Fair, she travels all over Western New York to show off her livestock and hard work. 

Overall Project Champion, Rate of Gain Champion, and Reserve Project Champion Miasy Ross was ecstatic after her lambs sold for top dollar. Placing one and two overall, Miasy is a very dedicated 4-H member and has been in the program for years.

"I actually gained so many friends, I wish more people did this," Miasy said.

4-H Livestock Auction is a great place for local farmers and livestock owners to display the results of their toil. You can feel the good spirits and pride of showmanship that abound while walking the auction grounds.

(Micheal Ermantrout had the Grand Champion goat.)

(Shianne Foss completes some final grooming before the auction.)

(Peggy Shuknecht, of Elba, holds Helena Kotarski, 2, so she can pet a cow.)

(Cole Phelps relaxes before the auction.)

(Photos by Howard Owens.)

To purchase prints, click here.

Here's the 4-H schedule for the Genesee County Fair July 12-16

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Remember to visit 4-H at the fair! This year’s 4-H fair theme is “4-H Grows Here” and local 4-H’ers have been working hard all year to show the community what 4-H means to them. Check out the 4-H exhibits, club displays and animal shows at the Genesee County Fair July 12-16 at the Genesee County Fairgrounds, located at 5056 E. Main Street Road in Batavia.

Genesee County 4-H Schedule (dates and times subject to change):

Tuesday, July 12th

9 a.m.                     4-H Market Hog Show (Show Ring)

12 p.m.                   4-H Market Goat Show (Show Ring)

2:30 p.m.                4-H Market Lamb Show (Show Ring)

4 p.m.                     4-H Market Steer Show (Show Ring)

6:30 p.m.                Fair Parade – 4-H Theme: “4-H Grows Here”

Wednesday, July 13  

9 a.m.                      4-H Goat Show (Show Ring)

10 a.m.                    4-H Livestock Judging Contest (Show Ring)

1:30 p.m.                 4-H Breeding Sheep Show (Show Ring)

4:30 p.m.                 4-H Goat & Sheep Costume Contest (Show Ring)

4:30 p.m.                 4-H Cloverbud Activity (Kennedy Building)

6 p.m.                      4-H Hog Show (Show Ring)

6:30 p.m.                 4-H Rabbit Show (Merton Building)

6:30 p.m.                 4-H Poultry Show (Merton Building)

Thursday, July 14

9 a.m.                     4-H Dairy Cattle Show (Show Ring)

10 a.m.                   4-H Horse Show – English Classes (Horse Ring)

2 p.m.                     4-H Goat & Sheep Quiz Bowl (Merton Building)

5:30 p.m.                4-H Horse Hullabaloo Contest (Horse Ring)

5:30 - 7 p.m.           4-H Market Animal Auction Buyer’s Dinner (Kennedy Building)                       

7 p.m.                     4-H Market Animal Auction (Show Ring)

Friday, July 15

10 a.m.                   4-H Horse Show – Western Classes (Horse Ring)

11 a.m.                   4-H Beef Cattle Show (Show Ring)

12 p.m.                   4-H Livestock Skillathon (Location TBA)

1 p.m.                     4-H Sheep & Goat Obstacle Course Contest (Location TBA)

2 p.m.                     4-H Energy Bike Activity (Location TBA)

3 p.m.                     4-H Sheep Blocking and Trimming Contest (4-H Sheep Barn)

5:30 p.m.                4-H Tractor Driving Contest (Kennedy Building)

7 p.m.                     4-H Energy Bike Activity (Location TBA)

Saturday, July 16

10 a.m.                   4-H Horse Show – Gymkhana & Games Classes (Horse Ring)

12 p.m.                   High Tech S’mores with 4-H Biofuel Stove Activity (Location TBA)

2 p.m.                     4-H Fair Tour hosted by the Cloverbud Club, for youth ages 4 - 9

2 - 4 p.m.                4-H Vegetable Art Contest (Kennedy Building)

2:30 p.m.                4-H Rabbit Knowledge Contest (Merton Building)

4 p.m.                     4-H Market Program Master Showman Contest (Show Ring)

5 p.m.                     4-H Livestock Master Showman Contest (Show Ring)

The complete 2016 Genesee County Fair Schedule is available online at: http://gcfair.com/Home/FairInformation/DailySchedule.aspx

GC 4-H youth compete at state Horse Communications event

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo: Alexandria Tarbell, left, and Alianna Baris.

Press release:

Congratulations to the Genesee County 4-H youth who competed in the 2016 New York State 4-H Horse Communications Event at Cornell University in Ithaca on Saturday, May 14! Representing Genesee County 4-H in the Junior Individual Presentations category were Alianna Baris from the Mystic Riders Club and Alexandria Tarbell from the Rustic Riders Club.

4-H youth from across New York State came together to compete in the NYS 4-H  Horse Communications Contest, which is an event for qualifying youth (decided at the regional level) to compete and show off public speaking and communication skills. The event is centered around the horse world, encompassing a wide variety of topics.

The communications program offered by 4-H is one of the most beneficial programs, allowing youth to learn and practice public speaking skills that can be used in future.

Cornell Cooperative Extension, Cornell University, and the NYS Horse Program are proud of all the youth who participated in this educational event.  Congratulations ladies!

For more information regarding local opportunities in 4-H Youth Development call Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County at 585-343-3040, ext. 101 or e-mailgenesee4h@cornell.edu. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities.

All Finger Lakes youth ages 5 to 19 welcome to learn about fowl at Poultry Palooza, deadline to RSVP is May 23

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Did you know that chickens make amazing backyard pets? They help control the bug population, eat table scraps, and provide nutrient-rich, great-tasting eggs! Learn how chickens make ideal 4-H projects for youth in rural, suburban, and urban settings by attending Poultry Palooza!

This program, presented by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee and Monroe Counties, will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 4, at the Kennedy Building on the Genesee County Fairgrounds, 5056 E. Main Street Road, Batavia.

This event is open to all Finger Lakes area youth ages 5–19. Youth do not need to be 4-H members to participateYouth ages 5–8 must have an adult present.

Poultry Palooza will feature two levels of workshops: beginner and advanced. The beginner level workshop is for youth who are new to owning poultry or are thinking of starting a poultry project. The advanced level workshop is for youth who are familiar with poultry and wish to advance their knowledge.

Workshop topics include: proper bird handling, flock management, nutrition, diseases, showmanship and more!

The registration fee is $10 per youth and includes lunch (or youth may bring their own), and a copy of the "4-H Poultry Resource Handbook" courtesy of the New York State 4-H Rice Fund. (One resource guide per family will be provided.)

The registration deadline is May 23. For a complete event brochure and registration form, please visit http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/events or contact the Monroe County 4-H Office at 585-753-2568 or monroe4h@cornell.edu.

4-H Paper Clover Fundraiser Campaign at Tractor Supply Store in Batavia is April 13-24

By Billie Owens

Press release:

National 4-H Council has announced the launch of the spring 2016 4-H Paper Clover Campaign in partnership with Tractor Supply Company (TSC).

Stop by Batavia Tractor Supply Company Store (4974 E. Main Street Road, Batavia) April 13 – 24 and support Genesee Co. 4-H Youth Development Programming by purchasing a paper clover for a $1 at checkout.

Funds donated during the national campaign will be tracked online and recorded by state and by store. Visit www.tractorsupply.com/4-H for more information on the spring 2016 4-H Paper Clover Campaign and to view the donation tracker.

This event marks the sixth year of collaboration between the organizations on the national in-store fundraiser, benefiting state and local 4‑H programming in each of the communities where a TSC store is located.

Last year, across 49 states, the TSC 4-H Paper Clover Campaign provided more than $1.8 million to 4-H across the country. All proceeds raised directly benefit 4-H, with 70 percent of funds being returned to state and local 4-H programs.

The effort has provided direct support for local camps, after-school programs and other activities, and has granted scholarships to these events where youth can explore their interests in everything from animal science to robotics.

Animal Crackers at Cornell Extension: 'Kids are Udderly Moomentous!'

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Cornell University Department of Animal Science is pleased to announce Animal Crackers 2016 "Animal Crackers: Kids are Udderly Moomentous!" on Saturday, May 7, at Cornell University. Registration deadline is April 29.

The upcoming program will incorporate both goat and dairy cattle topics for youth ages 9-12 or those with a beginners/intermediate knowledge of the species. All youth, 4-H and non-4-H, are invited to participate. Adult chaperones are also invited to attend to make Udderly Moomentous a family event!

Interesting, educational, hands-on activities are planned to make Animal Crackers a memorable teaching event. Participants will have the opportunity to learn goat or dairy care, biology, or management while having fun in two different learning tracts (goat or dairy cattle). There will also be sessions on making ice cream, animal demonstrations, and much, much more!

Cost of the program will be $15 per youth (adult chaperones are free!) and everyone is asked to bring their own lunch. Genesee County residents can register by contacting the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee Co. 585-343-3040, ext. 101 or e-mail genesee4h@cornell.edu no later than April 29. All groups must have at least one chaperone per species tract.

More information can be found on the Animal Crackers Web site: http://4h.ansci.cornell.edu/events-2/animal-crackers/topics/

Genesee 4-H Youth participate in District Public Presentations event

By Billie Owens

(Submitted photo) 2016 General District 4-H Public Presentations – From left, back row: Becky Kron, Melissa Keller, Teagan Mathes; front row: Colton Tarbell, Clare Mathes, Torrance Tillery.

Press release:

Congratulations to the Genesee County 4-H youth who competed in the 2016 District 4-H Public Presentations and the Region 2 Horse Communications Event at Mid Lakes High School in Phelps on Saturday, April 2.

4-H youth from across the region came together to compete at the district level and gave presentations in front of a panel of volunteer judges. 

Representing Genesee County at the 4-H District Presentations event were:

Melissa Keller – score 97, Blue Ribbon

Becky Kron – score 97, Blue Ribbon

Clare Mathes – score 94, Blue Ribbon

Teagan Mathes – score 94, Blue Ribbon

Colton Tarbell – score 93, Blue Ribbon

Torrance Tillery – score 82, Red Ribbon

All public presentation competitors worked very hard and did a great job! Eligible Blue Ribbon participants are still under consideration and have yet to be announced for the state event to be held May 14th at Cornell University.

(Submitted photo) 2016 General Region 2 Horse Communications: Alexandria Tarbell, left, and Alianna Baris.

Representing  Genesee County at the Region 2 Horse Communications Event were:

Alexandria Tarbell – 1st Place in the Junior Division

Alianna Baris – 4th Place in the Junior Division  

Both girls worked very hard and were well prepared for the event, they are both eligible to attend the State Communication Contest on May 14th at Cornell University.

For more information regarding local opportunities in 4-H Youth Development call Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County at 585-343-3040, ext. 101 or e-mailgenesee4h@cornell.edu. Our staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have about our program or about joining 4-H!

Photos: 4-H tractor safety tests

By Howard B. Owens

Students participating in the 4-H Club's annual tractor safety course were tested today on their hands-on knowledge at Empire Tractor.

Above, Christian Gerold steers through an obstacle course, and below, Tim Zipfel attached a combine to the back of a tractor while instructor Tim Adams scores his effort. Zipfel passed.

Genesee County 4-H results from regional Horse Extravaganza event

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo of the 2016 Genesee County 4-H Horse Bowl Club. From left, back row: Alexandria Tarbell, Gabriella Rindell, Eva Rhoads, Elizabeth Rindell, and Cindy Bovier, Horse Bowl Leader. Front row: Colton Tarbell, Annalee Winnicki, Karly Smith and Katie Ewert. 

Press release:

Congratulations to the Genesee County 4-H youth who competed in the 2016 Region II 4-H Horse Extravaganza at Mid Lakes High School in Phelps on Saturday, March 5.

4-H youth from across the region came together to compete in both 4-H Horse Quiz Bowl, in which youth compete as a team in answering horse knowledge based questions and 4-H Horse Hippology, a contest in which youth participate in a written exam, identification of items shown on slides, placing and/or ID of feedstuffs or feed tags, judging, ID stations, and team problems.

The results from participating Genesee County 4-H youth participants are as follows:

4-H Horse Bowl Event Results

Senior Category:  Team placement -- 6th of 6 teams; member: Emily Boldt.

Individual Ranking within the senior participants: Emily Boldt -- 15th

Junior Category: Team placement -- 1st of 7 teams; members: Elizabeth Rindell, Gabriella Rindell, Alexandria Tarbell and Eva Rhoads.

Individual Rankings within the junior participants:

Gabriella Rindell – 1st

Alexandria Tarbell – 4th

Elizabeth Rindell – 17th

Eva Rhoads – 19th

Novice Category: Team placement- 5th of 6 teams; members: Katie Ewert, Karly Smith, Colton Tarbell and Annalee Winnicki.

Individual Rankings within the participants:

Karly Smith – 7th

Colton Tarbell – 9th

Katie Ewert – 10th

4-H Hippology Event

Senior Category:  Team placement -- 2nd of 6 teams; member: Emily Boldt.

Individual Ranking within the senior participants: Emily Boldt -- 7th

Junior Category: Team placement -- 1st of 9 teams; members: Elizabeth Rindell, Gabriella Rindell, Alexandria Tarbell and Eva Rhoads.

Individual Rankings within the junior participants:

Gabriella Rindell – 1st

Alexandria Tarbell – 3rd

Elizabeth Rindell – 4th

Eva Rhoads – 20th

Novice Category: Team placement -- 3rd of 6 teams; members: Katie Ewert, Karly Smith, Colton Tarbell and Annalee Winnicki.

Individual Rankings within the novice participants:

Karly Smith – 2nd

Colton Tarbell – 9th

Katie Ewert – 11th

Annalee Winnicki – 18th

For more information regarding local opportunities in 4-H Youth Development call Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County at 585-343-3040, ext. 101, or e-mail genesee4h@cornell.edu

Photos: 4-H presentations at Byron-Bergen

By Howard B. Owens

Above, Sydney Reilly gives a cookie baking demonstration during Genesee County 4-H Club's annual public presentation day at Byron-Bergen High School. 

At the event, students ages 5 to 18  give presentations in front of their peers and a panel of volunteer judges.

Presentations include everything from illustrated talks using posters, PowerPoint slideshows, to live demonstrations and even impromptu topics.

The event is designed to help students improve their public speaking skills while developing self-confidence, poise, self-esteem, stage presence and knowledge.

Sydney's judges were Bob and Ester Leadley.

Below, Clare Mathes during her presentation and then talking with judges Denise Chatt and Karleigh Chatt. Also presenting, Teegan Mathes.

4-H Youth Development program to offer four Spring Break Workshops for ALL youths ages 5 to 19

By Billie Owens

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County 4-H Youth Development Program will be offering Spring Break Workshops open to all youth ages 5-19. Youth do not need to be 4-H members to participate! Come learn while having fun in the featured workshops:

Kids in the Kitchen! -- Monday, March 21, at 1 p.m. -- Come learn basic kitchen skills while making easy recipes that will have you a kitchen champion in no time! The cost is $5.00 per youth.

Livestock Skillathon -- Tuesday, March 22, at 10 a.m. -- Have fun exploring the breeds of beef, goat, sheep, swine, feedstuffs, equipment and more!  Free.

Knit an Infinity Scarf -- Wednesday, March 23, at 1 p.m. -- Boy, girl, left- or right-handed, come learn how to knit an infinity scarf! The cost is $5 per youth.

Ribbon-Woven Headband -- Thursday, March 24, 10:30 a.m. -- Learn how to make a ribbon-woven headband! This workshop is designed for youth ages 8 to 12. The cost is $5 per youth.

Class sizes are limited and pre-registration is required as all materials will be provided. The workshops will be held at the Cornell Cooperative Extension building located at 420 E. Main St., Batavia with payment taken at the door. For more information or to register, contact Brandie Schultz at the Genesee County 4-H Office, 585-343-3040, ext. 101.

National Safe Tractor & Machinery Operation Program offered for 4-H youths ages 14 and 15

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Currently, 4-H programming features the National Safe Tractor & Machinery Operation Program.  

This course will qualify enrolled 4-H youth ages 14 and 15 years of age to be certified to operate farm equipment for hire. The course is scheduled to run from January through March.

The training program encompasses 32 hours of intensive instruction. Upon the completion of the training, each student will be required to take a 50-question knowledge test with a minimum passing score of 70 percent. Students who successfully pass the knowledge test will be permitted to take the Skills and Driving tests. After passing both the written test and driving tests, the students will receive their formal certification from U.S. Department of Labor.

Parents say the program allows youth to operate equipment legally, be employable, and increases self-confidence, emergency preparedness skills, and knowledge.

Training youth in safer tractor operation is a high priority in Genesee County. Our young people living and working on farms operate a variety of agricultural equipment, including tractors.

Thank you to the tireless volunteers that lead this training, and to the youth that participate. For more information, contact us at 585-343-3040 or visit http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County is the outreach arm for Cornell University in Genesee County. We provide research based knowledge addressing unmet needs for the residents of Genesee County. We are also the home to 4-H, which is the largest out-of-school youth organization in the United States with more than 6 million youth members.

4-H Clubs, camps, after-school programs, and trips help youth reach their fullest potential.  Members have opportunities to connect to Cornell University, learn through hands-on activities, lead, be inspired, inspire others, and so much more. 4-H helps kids to do better in school, learn to help others, and feel more capable and responsible.

Genesee County 4-H to offer tractor safety course

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee County 4-H Youth Development Program will be offering the National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program to youth 14 to 15 years of age. This course will qualify youth to be certified to operate farm equipment for hire.

The course is scheduled to run Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon, beginning in January and running through March.

The training program encompasses 32 hours of intensive instruction. Upon the completion of the training, each student will be required to take a 50-question knowledge test with a minimum passing score of 70 percent. Students who successfully pass the knowledge test will be permitted to take the Skills and Driving tests. After passing both the written test and driving tests, the students will receive their formal certification from U.S. Department of Labor.

The fee for the course is $25. Note: youth are also required to be current enrolled 4-H members. (Genesee County 4-H enrollment fees are: $25 per youth or $50 per family for Genesee County residents; $35 for out of county residents.)

To request a registration packet or more information please call Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County at 343-3040, ext. 101, or e-mail: genesee4h@cornell.edu

GC 4-H offers Harvest Pie Workshop, deadline to register is Nov. 13

By Billie Owens

The Genesee County 4-H Youth Development Program is offering a Harvest Pie Workshop for all area youth ages 5 to 19.

The workshop is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 17th, at 6:30 p.m. and will take place at the Cornell Cooperative Extension Office, 420 E. Main St., Batavia. Come and learn how to bake holiday pies just in time for Thanksgiving! Youth do not need to be 4-H members to attend, and parents are welcome. Cost: $10 per youth.

Register by Nov. 13th by calling Brandie at the 4-H Office at 585-343-3040, ext. 101. Complete event information is also available on the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County website at http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/events

Genesee County 4-H accepting new members until Oct. 30

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Genesee County 4-H is now accepting new 4-H members (ages 5 to 19) and volunteers through Oct. 30. 4-H is a year-long educational program which runs from Oct. 1st until Sept. 31st.

Clubs typically meet once a month and each club focuses on different projects throughout the year. Clubs and projects range from hands-on hobby-crafts, raising and showing livestock, gardening, robotics and much more! Genesee County 4-H youth are offered a wide range of educational experiences through a dedicated group of volunteer leaders. Through these experiences, 4-H encourages strong character traits like a sense of community, hard work and confidence.

Recent findings from Tufts University's 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development indicate that young people in 4-H are three times more likely to contribute to their communities than youth not participating in 4-H. Notably, the Tufts research discovered that the structured learning, encouragement and adult mentoring that 4-Hers receive play a vital role in helping them actively contribute to their communities. In Genesee County, more than 200 youth and 60 volunteers are involved in 4‑H.

The enrollment fee for Genesee County residents is $25 per youth or $50 per family (2 or more youth in 4-H program). If you would like more information about how to join 4-H in Genesee County or becoming a 4-H volunteer, please call the 4-H Office at 585-343-3040, ext. 101, or stop by the Genesee County 4-H Office located in the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County building at 420 E. Main St. Batavia. The office is open 8am- 5pm, Monday through Friday.

The 4-H Youth Development team can be reached by e-mail at genesee4h@cornell.edu and more information is also available on our Web site: genesee.cce.cornell.edu/genesee4h

Genesee County 4Hers advance to State Fair competition

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee County 4-H Office would like to thank all of the Genesee County 4-H members who participated in the 2015 Genesee County Fair. We would also like to thank all of our volunteers, judges, family and friends who came to support our youth; we could not do it without you!

Congratulations to the following Genesee County 4-H members who were selected to show at the New York State Fair, which will take place in Syracuse from Aug. 27 to Sept. 7. Genesee County 4-H non-animal exhibits selected for state fair will be on display in the Youth Building Aug. 31st through Sept. 7th. Animal exhibitors will show at their species scheduled show times, for more information visit: http://nysfair.org/

Non-Animal Exhibits

  • Communications & Expressive Art: Melissa Keller
  • Food & Nutrition: Ashley Ehrmentraut, Melissa Keller
  • Fine Arts & Crafts: Rebekah Allen, Brianna Chesley
  • Home Environment: Brianna Chesley
  • Wearable Art: Maisy Ross
  • Textiles & Clothing: Melissa Keller, Caroline Pelton, Eva Rhoads, Alexandria Tarbell, Colton Tarbell
  • Visual Arts/Photography: Caris Carlson, Melissa Keller, Georgia Luft, Jenna Salim
  • Horticulture: Amelia Brewer, Melissa Keller, Georgia Luft, Clare Mathes, Eva Rhoads, Alexandria Tarbell, Colton Tarbell, Margaret Winspear
  • Cloverbud Exhibits for Display Only: Caroline Luft, Hudson Luft, Aubrianna Martinez, Anastasia Rindell, Evan Winspear

Animal Exhibitors

  • Beef: Cole Carlson
  • Horse: Emily Boldt, Lauren Hull, Madeline Roth
  • Sheep: Melissa Keller, Becky Kron, Benjamin Kron, Brendan Pimm, Madelynn Pimm
  • Dairy: Emily Mikel, Mary Sweeney, Kayla Wormuth
  • Swine: Melissa Keller
  • Horse Communications: Alexandria Tarbell
  • Hippology: Alexandria Tarbell, Elizabeth Rindell, Gabriella Rindell, Emily Boldt
  • Horse Bowl: Gabriella Rindell

2015 Genesee County 4-H Master Market Showman Competition winner announced

By Billie Owens

Photo from Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County. From left, back row: Timothy Adams, Ed Keller, Troy Johnson, Meg Thater; middle row -- Ashley Ehrementraut, Tucker Bezon, Melissa Keller, Julie Ehrementraut, Tamie Johnson; front row -- Michael Ehrementraut.
 
 For the first time in several years, the Genesee County 4-H Youth Development Program held a Master Market Showman Competition at the Genesee County Fair.  This competition is designed for Genesee County 4-H Market Program youth who won senior showmanship or overall showmanship in either beef, goat, sheep or swine market animal shows.

To be awarded the prestigious title of 2015 Genesee County 4-H Master Market Showman, qualifying 4-H youth must demonstrate the additional knowledge and advanced showmanship skills in multiple species.  The competition was held Saturday, July 25th in the main show ring of the Genesee County Fair.

4-H Market Animal Advisory Committee Leaders worked together with 4-H Club Leaders in selecting animals to be used for the competitions; four animals were needed for each youth participating in the competition. 4-H members exhibiting those animals at the fair were asked for use of their livestock by club leaders and the master showmanship competition coordinator.

Participating in this year’s competition were: Tucker Bezon (Beef Club), Ashley Ehrmentraut (Sheep Club), Michael Ehrmentraut (Goat Gang Club) and Melissa Keller (Swine Club). After showing each breed of animal (beef, goat, sheep and swine) and answering several questions asked by judges, the participant score cards were tallied.

The 2015 Genesee County 4-H Master Market Showman trophy and belt buckle was presented to Melissa Keller, of Corfu. Congratulations to Melissa and also to Tucker, Ashley and Michael, it was a very close competition! Thank you to all of the 4-H Volunteers and Club Leaders who assisted with the event and to the 4-H Youth who loaned their livestock -- without you this competition would not be possible.

Genesee County Fair is next week

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee County 4-H Fair will take place July 21-25 at the Genesee County Fairgrounds on East Main Street in Batavia. This year’s 4-H fair theme is “#iam4h” and local 4-Hers have been working hard all year to show the community what 4-H means to them!

4-H is a year-long educational program and most clubs meet once a month. Each club focuses on different projects throughout the year, and many 4-H members are able to display the results of their hard work at fair. This ranges from raising animals to sewing and gardening and even projects about alternative energy!

Genesee County 4-H youth are offered a wide range of educational experiences through a dedicated group of volunteer leaders. Through these experiences, 4-H encourages strong character traits like a sense of community, hard work and confidence.

We encourage you to stop out at this year’s 4-H Fair to support our youth and have some fun!
 
Tentative 2015 Genesee County Fair 4-H Schedule of Events:

(Dates and times are subject to change)
 

Tuesday, July 21
8 a.m.-- 12 p.m. ---      Final Setup of Merton & Kennedy Buildings:
                                    4-H Club Exhibits in place (Kennedy Bldg.)
                                    4-H Community Service, Promotional & Project Displays (Merton Bldg.)
9 a.m.  -------------        4-H Market Swine Show & Showmanship (Show Ring)
12 p.m.  ------------       4-H Market Goat Show & Showmanship (Show Ring)
2:30 p.m.  ----------       4-H Market Sheep Show & Showmanship (Show Ring)
                                    4-H Dairy & Meat (non-market) Goat Show & Showmanship (Open Dairy Barn)
4 p.m.  -------------        4-H Non Market Beef Show & Showmanship (Show Ring)
                                   GPS & Solar Fun Fest (Merton Bldg.)
5:30 p.m.  ---------       Parade Line up- Pit Area of Raceway 5 (on Fairgrounds)
6 p.m.  ------------        4-H Market Beef Show & Showmanship (Show Ring)
6:30 p.m.  --------        Parade- Theme: “#iam4h”
7:30 p.m. ---------       GPS & Solar Fun Fest (Merton Bldg.)
 
Wednesday, July 22                 
11:30 a.m.   ---------    GPS & Solar Fun Fest (Merton Bldg.)
1:30 p.m.  ------------   4-H Sheep Show & Showmanship (Show Ring)

Followed by:  --------   4-H Sheep Leadline Classes (Show Ring)
                                   4-H Sheep Costume Class (Show Ring)
6 p.m.     -----------       4-H Swine Show & Showmanship (Show Ring)
6:30 p.m. ----------       4-H Rabbit Show & Showmanship (Merton Bldg.)
 
Thursday, July 23
8:30 a.m. ----------      Horse Show ring closed for Show set up
9 a.m. -------------        4-H Dairy Show & Showmanship (Show Ring)
                                  4-H Horses in place
10 a.m.  ----------        4-H Horse Show Fitting, Showmanship, and English Classes (Horse Ring)
1 p.m.  -----------         4-H Goat Knowledge Olympics Contest (Livestock Bldg.)
2 p.m. -----------          4-H Horse Show Dressage Classes (Horse Ring)
5:30 -- 7 p.m. ---        4-H Market Animal Auction Buyers Dinner (Kennedy Bldg.)                       
7 p.m.  ----------          4-H Market Animal Auction (Show Ring)
 
Friday, July 24
9:25 a.m.  -------         Wrangler Equine Showmanship Clinic (Horse Ring)
10 a.m.  ---------         4-H Horse Show Fitting, Showmanship & Western Classes (Horse Ring)
3 p.m.  ----------          4-H Goat Obstacle Course Contest (Livestock Bldg.)
                                  4-H Sheep Trimming and Blocking Contest (4-H Sheep Barn)
5:30 p.m.  -------         4-H Tractor Driving Contest-via Pre Registration (Kennedy Bldg.)
                                  4-H Goat Costume Contest (near Goat & Livestock Bldgs.)
7 p.m. -----------          4-H Fur & Feather Knowledge Contests (Merton Bldg.)
 
Saturday, July 25
10 a.m.  ----------       4-H Horse Gymkhana & Games Classes (Horse Ring)
2 p.m.  -----------        4-H Sheep Bowl (Merton Bldg.)
2 -- 4 p.m.  -----         4-H Vegetable Art Fun Fair Activity (Kennedy Bldg.)
4 p.m.  ----------         4-H Master Showman Contest (Show Ring)
6:30 p.m.  -------        4-H Scavenger Hunt (Kennedy Bldg.)
8 p.m.  ---------           4-H Movie Night (Kennedy or Merton Bldg.)
8 p.m.  ---------           4-H Dairy Animals released
8:30 p.m.  -----           4-H Horse Animals released
9 p.m.  ----------          4-H Fur & Feather Club Animals released
                                  4-H Non-Market Animals- Beef, Goat, Sheep, Swine released
10 – 11 p.m. ----        Kennedy, Merton, and Exhibition Buildings Open for pick up of entries

Bunny Bonanza at GC Fair open to ALL youth 8 to 19, deadline to register is July 8

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Learn how rabbits make ideal pets and 4-H projects for youth in rural and urban areas!  Bunny Bonanza presented by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee and Monroe Counties, will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 25, at the Genesee County Fair, 5056 E. Main St. Road, Batavia.

This event is open to all Finger Lakes area youth ages 8 – 19. Youth do not need to be 4-H members to participate. Registration deadline is July 8.

The Bunny Bonanza will feature two levels of workshops: beginner and advanced.

The beginner workshop will cover basic housing, feeding, novice showmanship and more!  The advanced workshop will focus on housing design, nutrition, breeding and genetics, advanced showmanship and more!

Registration fee: $10 per youth and includes: parking passes for the Genesee Co. Fair, lunch, and a copy of the 4-H Rabbit Resource Handbook for Breeding, Market, and Pet Rabbit Projects courtesy of the New York State 4-H Foundation Willman Fund.  (One resource guide per family will be provided.)

For a complete event brochure and registration form please visit: http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/events or contact the Genesee County 4-H Office at 585-343-3040, ext. 101, or genesee4h@cornell.edu.

Authentically Local