Beth Moore
Contributor
Madison County 4-H Club officially launched its new program year with successful first meetings held in September at the UF/IFAS Extension office. Members, parents and leaders gathered to reconnect, welcome new members and lay the foundation for a year full of learning, leadership and fun. This year, our clubs consist of STEM Club, Saddle and Spur Club, Community Club, Shooting Sports Club, Culinary Club and Homesteaders Homeschool Club.
On Tuesday, Sept. 4, STEM Club members put their building hats on and put together metal raised garden beds to grow 4-H’s own fall gardens at the Extension Office. They also used their muscles to fill each bed with soil. On Thursday, Oct. 2, beginning at 5:30 p.m, the next STEM Club meeting will be held at the Extension office.
Saddle and Spur Club, led by Lauren Williams, met on Monday, Sept. 8. The group discussed the upcoming North Florida Livestock Show and Sale, played a fun game to get to know a little about each other and shared a meal together. Next meeting is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 6, beginning at 6 p.m., at the Extension office.
Shooting Sports Club met on Saturday, Sept. 13, at Hickory Grove Church Park. Arrows were flying straight to the targets and everyone enjoyed the morning. If you are interested in archery and participating in state archery matches, be sure not to miss the next club meeting on Saturday, Oct. 4, at Hickory Grove Church Park, at 9 a.m. Wear close-toed shoes.
Our garden beds needed seeds planted so our Community Club spent part of their meeting time planting the fall gardens, complete with lettuce, greens, carrots, beets, herbs, etc. The club members also created beautiful paintings to enter the North Florida Fair in November. Don’t miss the next meeting on Thursday, Oct. 9, at 5:30 p.m., located at the Extension office.
Culinary Club met on Thursday, Sept. 18 and used the meeting to practice knife and kitchen safety. The 30 members present made yummy fruit salsa and cinnamon crispy tortilla chips. The next club meeting will be on Thursday, Oct. 16, beginning at 5:30 p.m., at the Extension office.
The final club meeting for the month is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 26, with the Homesteaders Homeschool Club. Members will be exploring the welding trade.
“We’re really excited for the year ahead,” said Beth Moore 4-H Agent. “4-H gives kids a chance to grow in so many ways—whether it’s through public speaking, animal projects or learning about science and citizenship.”
The Madison County 4-H Clubs meet monthly and welcome new members ages 5 to 18. For more information, contact Beth Moore or Carie Diepersloot at (850) 973-4138.