Paws and Pals

Paws and Pals, the 4-H group for kids who love dogs, is sponsoring basic obedience classes beginning Tuesday, January 13, 2009 - February 17, 2009. Classes will be held at the Leon County Show Barn starting at 5:30pm. All dogs must be at least 6 months of age, have current vaccinations and a stable temperament for working in a group environment.
Adult and youth handlers are welcome. The fee for non 4-H members is $40.00. There is no fee for 4-H members. Please call Project Leader, Becky Lord at 903-322-2192 to register or for more information.

Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Earthkind Lanscape School

Once you start looking for landscaping "don'ts," you'll find them everywhere: a huge oak tree planted close to a house; a holly bush planted beneath a window and covering the view; a solitary island flower bed, floating by itself, disconnected from all the other elements of the landscape. All were decisions made by well-meaning people that just turned out poorly. You didn't want to end up making such mistakes, so before you start reworking your own yard, set out to learn a little about landscape design. Here are some approaches road-tested and some thoughts about how to make them more useful to you. Each year around the end of January Texas Agrilife Extension Service in Leon County host a Home Landscape School. The Keynote speaker this year will be Texas AgriLife Extension landscape horticultural specialist Dr. Steven George. Each year the program has grown and this year we are expecting over 150 people to attend the session, which will take place at the Centerville High School Cafeteria. This years event, will mark the 4th year of the program. Dr. George will speak in the morning on topics including landscape bed layout and prep, plant placement, general design principles and, his foremost interest, EarthKind gardening and landscaping principles. He is a charismatic, engaging speaker who fits a lot of useful information into just a few hours. The pace will be brisk but understandable. He makes effective use of an overhead projector, sketching freehand the best places to put things like trees, shrubs and planting beds. For example, at one point Dr. George will show a sketch of a front landscape on the overhead and draws a big circle over the yard space to illustrate best places for turf, bedding plants and trees. Imagine a circle (as big or small as you want it) in the middle of the yard. That's for the turf. The areas that remain outside the circle are where you would place flower beds, shrubs and/or trees. This design technique is simple and, of course, there are other ways to effectively plan a landscape. But that circle stuck in my mind, and in many cases it jumps out at me when I notice good-looking properties. During class registration, participants receive design handouts, booklets on Texas plants, and graph paper. Participants sign up during class for a 30-minute consultation with a landscape professional that takes place at the event after lunch. The project goal is to use the class information to sketch a landscape plan and then review the plan during the event. The class is a great, time-effective way to learn solid landscape-design basics and get a plan going. The trick to getting the most of out of this class will be to focus effort on one manageable area. Pick the front or back yard or focus on an even smaller area to maximize the time you spend with the landscape professional. Participants must pre-register in the Texas Agrilife Extension office on or before January 27, 2009 and space may be limited. Their will be a $65.00 fee due upon registration of this event. Check in will begin at 9:30am on January 31, 2009 a noon meal, three CEU'S for the private applicator license holders and break snacks will be provided along with event materials. For more information please contact the Texas Agrilife Extension Service at 903.536.2531 or at leon-tx@tamu.edu We will seek to provide reasonable accommodations for all persons with disabilities for this event. We request that you contact Texas Agrilife Extension three days before the event to advise us of the auxiliary aid or service that will be required. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.




Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

2009 4-H Livestock Project Day

The Leon County 4-H programs will again sponsor a Livestock Project Day at the Yellow Rose Arena on January 17, 2009. Participants will have the opportunity to hear from quality leaders in the livestock industry on feeding, showmanship, and proper care of livestock projects. The day will began at 9:00am with a session on Quality Counts, which is a 4-H and FFA Character Education program for members involved in livestock shows. Following this the participants will divide into groups according to interest such as Beef, Horse, Swine, Poultry, Sheep, Goats, and Rabbits to discuss in depth specie concerns. At the conclusion of the project clinics everyone will reconvene for a noon meal provided by local sponsors. A special Thank you goes to all local sponsors A&A Feed, Centerville Feed, Cattle Country, Davis Feed, and McGill Feed.









Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Agrilife Extension Pesticide Seminar

Mark your calendar for the Annual Texas Agrilife Extension Pesticide
Applicator Re-Certification Training to be held on January 30, 2009 at
the First United Methodist Church in Centerville, Texas. Registration
will begin at 8:00 a.m., followed by the program from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30
p.m. Participants will be eligible for five Continuing Education Units
credit toward Texas Department of Agriculture pesticide applicator
license re-certification tentative upon TDA approval (1 CEU laws and
regulations, 1 CEU drift minimization, and 3 CEUs general. Registration
for the day will be $35 and will include a catered lunch, handouts and
break refreshments. Topics and speakers will include; “Mud Farms-The
Good, The Bad, & The Ugly” and “Land Application of Alternative
Fertilizers,” Dr. Sam Feagley, Extension State Soil Environmental
Specialist; “Laws & Regulations, & Recordkeeping,” Dr Don Renchie, Texas
Agrilife Extension Specialist; and an update on the Farm Bill,” Dr.
Jason Johnson. Contact the Texas AgriLife Extension Service, Leon
County Office at 903.536.2531if you need further information. Please
register in the office by January 28, 2008 so that we may plan the meal
and handouts accordingly. You can mail a check or money order, made
payable to: Program Development Fund c/o Leon County Extension Office,
P.O. Box 188 Centerville, Texas 75833. The following are a few facts
from the TDA laws and regulations manual. Licensed private applicators
are required to re-certify every five years by obtaining 15 continuing
education credits including at least two credits in laws and regulations
and two credits in integrated pest management before the last day the
license expires.
Licensed commercial and noncommercial applicators are required to
recertify every year by obtaining five continuing education credits;
with one credit each from two of the following categories: laws and
regulations, IPM or drift minimization.
And one last reminder. If your license is soon to expire, your renewal
notice will be mailed directly to you. If your mailing address has
changed anytime during the last licensing cycle (five years for private
applicators and one year for commercial or noncommercial applicators),
you need to contact the TDA at 800-TELL-TDA and provide your new mailing
address.
You may also find a copy the change of information form online at
www.agr.state.tx.us/pesticide or e-mail license.inquiry@agr.state.tx.us
Individuals who require an auxiliary aid, service or other
accommodations to participate in Extension sponsored events are
encouraged to contact the Johnson County Extension Office by Dec. 5 to
determine how reasonable accommodations may be made. Extension programs
serve people of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color,
sex, religion, disability, or national origin.




Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Leon County 4-H members delivered Christmas poinsettias to each nursing home resident in Leon County on December 3, 2008. This outreach provides 4-H youth the opportunity to seek knowledge from former 4-H members that have so much to share. During this time of year it is always rewarding to pause and and reflect on the contributions that others have made before us.

Pic Caption: Leon County 4-H members Justin Pistone, Amy Terry and Christina Cockrell present Centerville Nursing Home resident Perline Wimberly with a poinsettia.








Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Scholarship Training

Leon County 4-H host scholarship training on Dec. 3, 2008 at 6:00pm in the Leon County Annex Grand Activity Room. Last year Texas 4-H awarded over 220 4-H youth over 2 million dollars in scholarships at Texas 4-H Roundup in College Station. During the scholarship training Leon County 4-H members were encouraged to take the opportunity to showcase their 4-H experiences and work to try to be one of those 220 in 2009. The workshop was open to others who were looking to complete the application in the upcoming years. The focus was on how to complete the application and learning the steps of the scholarship process.

pic caption:
Texas Agrilife 4-H Specialist Laura Hebinger provides instruction to Leon County 4-H seniors and parents during the training.








Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

AGRILIFE MASTER GARDENERS SAY DECK THE HALLS WITH REAL HOLLY IN LEON COUNTY

Deck the halls with real holly...drawing on an old age adage of having a natural eco - Christmas. Instead of spending money on artificial Christmas decorations that won't bio-degrade, let nature decorate your home this Christmas. Christmas decorations can be made from organic, recycled and scrap materials. Try organic popcorn, dough, cinnamon sticks, bows, gingerbread, holly, seasonal berries, organic fruit and vegetables, ivy and evergreen branches, pine cones, gumnuts,painted eggshells, dried indian corn - after Christmas, store decorations for next year and put the branches in the composter. Have arrangements of greenery from the garden and organic seasonal fruit, with bright red apples amongst the greenery. Using garden trimmings as decorations costs nothing and you xmas-crayon_drawing_280px.jpghave to prune them anyway. Hang greenery, twist into wreaths or garlands or make table arrangements, etc with greenery and bright fruit. Apples, oranges and other fruit can last for 2-3 weeks in decorations and can be eaten after that or used for cooking a pie or for juicing, in our home they get eaten and we replace daily. Leave some greenery for last minute changes or replacements that will wilt, or as extra Christmas decorations closer to Christmas or for the Christmas table. Make a homemade wreath from branches trimmed from your garden. Decorate the outdoor trees and bushes in your yard with homemade decor that will survive a few weeks of weather.
An environmentally friendly Christmas need not be the traditional red and green. Let nature be the inspiration for your own unique, individual style. If you need ideas or just want to enjoy the beauty of a natural Christmas Tree stop and see the Natural Christmas tree donated to the county by Huebner Christmas Tree farm and decorated by Texas Agrilife Master Gardeners of Leon County in the lobby of the Leon County Annex I.

pic caption:
Texas Agrilife Master Gardeners Jeff Miller, Mary Foucheux, Elaine Trefry, Kay Serifin, Charlene Manning, Carole Huebner, Brenda Savelle, Laminda Coker, and Charlie Patin.










Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

LEON COUNTY 4-H MEMBER GOES TO D.C.

Leon County 4-H member Ryan McCarty travels to Washington D.C. for Texas 4-H Leadership Conference. Over the Thanksgiving Holidays 24 Texas 4-H State Recordbook Winners and four Chaperone's converged on our nation's capitol? These very lucky individuals were selected as the state winner in their category last summer during the state 4-H recordbook contest. Each summer their are over 10,000 recordbooks turned in for competition in the state of Texas and these 4-H members were at the top of the pile! Record keeping and 4-H Recordbooks are an important part of all Texas 4-H projects. By learning good record keeping skills, 4-H members are able to refelect annually, and over their career, the growth and development they have experienced in 4-H. Record keeping is done on a daily and monthly basis on all projects, recording such things as financial investments, learning experiences, goals of projects, and leadership. At the end of the 4-H year, 4-H members are encouraged to transfer their records into a Texas 4-H Recordbook, which is a competitive process allowsing youth to be evaluated with other youth in one of the categories. Recordbooks are a family affair that involves the 4-H member and an adult recording and completing the record book of project experiences, leadership, community service, awards, and non-4-H accomplishments. Over the Holidays 24 state winners traveled to Washington, D.C., to attend the Texas 4-H Leadership Conference. Their focus was to take their leadership skills to the highest level by learning to solve local problems; learning to build relationships; developing their character and making the best better. Located in our nation's capitol, the Texas 4-H Leadership Conference is a five-day event that trains allowed 4-H members to make a positive impact in their school, local community, state and country. The Texas Agrilife Extension Service selected Leon County Extension Agents Tommy and Wendy Neyland as two of the Chaperone's for this state activity.


pic caption: County Extension Agents Tommy Neyland & Wendy Neyland and State 4-H Recordbook Winner Ryan McARTY









Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Private Applicator Training in Leon County

The Texas Agrilife Extension Service in Leon County will host a Private Applicator Training on December 19, 2008. Participants must pre-register in theTexas Agrilife Extension office on or before December 17, 2008. The training will begin with sign in from 8:00am to 8:30am in the Leon County Annex Grand Activity Room. Following the training Mr. Brad Tullis with The Texas Department of Agriculture will administer the test. Their will be a $35.00 fee due upon registration of this training. Training will be from 8:30am to 12:00noon and the test will be given at 1:00pm. For more information please contact the Texas Agrilife Extension Service at 903.536.2531or at leon-tx@tamu.edu We will seek to provide reasonable accommodations for all persons with disabilities for this meeting. We request that you contact Texas Agrilife Extension three days before the event to advise us of the auxiliary aid or service that will be required. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.

Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

AGRILIFE EARTHKIND LANDSCAPE SCHOOL

Once you start looking for landscaping "don'ts," you'll find them everywhere: a huge oak tree planted close to a house; a holly bush planted beneath a window and covering the view; a solitary island flower bed, floating by itself, disconnected from all the other elements of the landscape. All were decisions made by well-meaning people that just turned out poorly. You didn't want to end up making such mistakes, so before you start reworking your own yard, set out to learn a little about landscape design. Here are some approaches road-tested and some thoughts about how to make them more useful to you. Each year around the end of January Texas Agrilife Extension Service in Leon County host a Home Landscape School. The Keynote speaker this year will be Texas AgriLife Extension landscape horticultural specialist Dr. Steven George. Each year the program has grown and this year we are expecting over 150 people to attend the session, which will take place at the Centerville High School Cafeteria. This years event, will mark the 4th year of the program. Dr. George will speak in the morning on topics including landscape bed layout and prep, plant placement, general design principles and, his foremost interest, EarthKind gardening and landscaping principles. He is a charismatic, engaging speaker who fits a lot of useful information into just a few hours. The pace will be brisk but understandable. He makes effective use of an overhead projector, sketching freehand the best places to put things like trees, shrubs and planting beds. For example, at one point Dr. George will show a sketch of a front landscape on the overhead and draws a big circle over the yard space to illustrate best places for turf, bedding plants and trees. Imagine a circle (as big or small as you want it) in the middle of the yard. That's for the turf. The areas that remain outside the circle are where you would place flower beds, shrubs and/or trees. This design technique is simple and, of course, there are other ways to effectively plan a landscape. But that circle stuck in my mind, and in many cases it jumps out at me when I notice good-looking properties. During class registration, participants receive design handouts, booklets on Texas plants, and graph paper. Participants sign up during class for a 30-minute consultation with a landscape professional that takes place at the event after lunch. The project goal is to use the class information to sketch a landscape plan and then review the plan during the event. The class is a great, time-effective way to learn solid landscape-design basics and get a plan going. The trick to getting the most of out of this class will be to focus effort on one manageable area. Pick the front or back yard or focus on an even smaller area to maximize the time you spend with the landscape professional. Participants must pre-register in the Texas Agrilife Extension office on or before January 27, 2009 and space may be limited. Their will be a $65.00 fee due upon registration of this event. Check in will begin at 9:30am on January 31, 2009 a noon meal and break snacks will be provided along with event materials. For more information please contact the Texas Agrilife Extension Service at 903.536.2531 or at leon-tx@tamu.edu We will seek to provide reasonable accommodations for all persons with disabilities for this event. We request that you contact Texas Agrilife Extension three days before the event to advise us of the auxiliary aid or service that will be required. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.

Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Texas Agrilife Extension Completes 50 hour Training!

Texas Agrilife Extension Completes 50 hour Training!

This new crop of local community leaders has an active interest in their lawns, trees, shrubs, flowers and gardens. They are enthusiastic, willing to learn and to help others, and able to communicate with diverse groups of people. What really sets Master Gardeners apart from other home gardeners is their special training in horticulture. In exchange for their training, persons who become Master Gardeners contribute time as volunteers, working through our Extension office to provide horticultural-related information to our communities. In exchange for training, participants are asked to volunteer time to our County Extension program. At least 50 hours of volunteer service within one year following the training is required to earn the title of "Texas Master Gardener." The type of service done by Master Gardeners varies according to community needs, and the abilities and interests of the Master Gardeners. Some Master Gardeners answer telephone requests for information related to gardening. Others staff plant clinics or displays in shopping malls or community centers. Master Gardeners may speak to local groups and conduct workshops. They may help establish community garden projects, work with 4-H youth, or assist their agent with news or radio releases related to gardening. Master Gardeners are representatives of Texas Agrilife Extension, and The Texas A&M University System. In all volunteer work related to the program, Master Gardeners follow the research-based recommendations of Texas Agrilife Extension. Participants become certified Master Gardeners after they have completed the training course and fulfilled their volunteer commitment.


pic caption:













Texas Agrilife Extension 2008 Leon County Master Gardener Interns:
left to right: Ruthie Lee, Judith Madewell, Leaminda Coker, T.J. Loftin, Cheryl Loftin, Becky Lord, Cynthia Torno, Donna Holloway, Mary Beth Anderberg, Brenda Savell

Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Texas Agrilife Extension Completes 4-H Sport Fishing

The Texas Agrilife Extension, Leon County 4-H Sport fishing Program
provides youth with all the skills needed to be expert anglers, and it
involves them in a deeper understanding of aquatic resources and their
management. With aquatic issues as a top priority, this program fills an
essential educational role. Adult volunteer and Texas Parks and Wildlife
Park Superintendant Wes Hamilton provided leadership to this exciting
and rapidly expanding program. This local training provides important
curriculum material in a “hands-on” setting, allowing all participants
to experience the program. The 4-H motto, “learning by doing” is
practiced. Training dates for the spring are being discussed. For more
information about the 4-H Sportfishing program, contact the Texas
Agrilife Extension Office in Leon County at 903.536.2531. Extension
programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race,
color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M
University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County
Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.

Pic Caption:













Leon County 4-H Sport Fishing Project Group:
Left to Right: Sarah Burchfield, Rion Ussery, Drake Cornelius, Corbin
Feauto, Tobe Johnson, Briell Feauto, Ross Beshears, Marissa Wall, Andy
Johnson, Cody Oden, Makinzie Hamilton, Hayley Hamiliton, Gatlynn
Johnson, Corbin Chandler, Bailey Hennesey


Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Heartfelt Holiday Expo

December 4, 2008, the Family and Consumer Science Program Area Committee through Texas AgriLife Extension Service in Leon County, will host a "Heartfelt Holiday Expo" at the Buffalo Civic Center. The event will run from 4:30 to 7:30 PM.

The Expo will feature booths of businesses from in and around Leon County to give holiday shoppers a chance to buy locally. Also featured will be demonstrations from Lone Rangers Master Gardeners in natural Christmas tree decorations and making natural wreaths by Carole Huebner of Huebner Christmas Tree Farms.

Refreshments will be provided by It's Catered of Buffalo. Tickets for entry into the event are $10.00, which will cover food, a book full of holiday recipes, crafts and gift ideas, and a goody bag for each participant. Please contact Leon County Texas AgriLife Extension Service at 903-536-2531 to find out more or to purchase a ticket.

Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.


Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

PAT DATE CHANGE

Private Applicator Training in Leon County

The Texas Agrilife Extension Service in Leon County will host a Private Applicator Training on December 19, 2008. Participants must pre-register in theTexas Agrilife Extension office on or before December 17, 2008. The training will begin with sign in from 8:00am to 8:30am in the Leon County Annex Grand Activity Room. Following the training Mr. Brad Tullis with The Texas Department of Agriculture will administer the test. Their will be a $35.00 fee due upon registration of this training. Training will be from 8:30am to 12:00noon and the test will be given at 1:00pm. For more information please contact the Texas Agrilife Extension Service at 903.536.2531or at leon-tx@tamu.edu We will seek to provide reasonable accommodations for all persons with disabilities for this meeting. We request that you contact Texas Agrilife Extension three days before the event to advise us of the auxiliary aid or service that will be required. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.



Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Validation

BOTH PARENT AND EXHIBITOR MUST BE PRESENT AT VALIDATION DUE TO CHANGES IN THE VALIDATION PROCESS.

Major Lamb and Goat Validation
October 23, 2008
4:00pm to 6:00pm
Centerville, Texas- Leon County Livestock Show Facility

Leon County Youth Livestock Show
Steer and Heifer Validation
November 3, 2008
4:00pm to 6:00pm
Buffalo Livestock Auction

Major Show Entry Night
Leon County 4-H
November 13, 2008
Leon County Annex Grand Room
4:00pm to 6:00pm


Major Swine Validation
November 25, 2008
4:00pm to 6:00pm
Leon High School Ag Science Department





Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

IDK Text Messaging???

Parents: DYNWUTB when it comes to text messaging? :) If you don't understand this, then you might want to sign up for a class that Leon County Texas AgriLife Extension Service is hosting covering Child Predation on the Internet and MySpace, Texting, and Social Networking. The program will begin at 6:00 PM, at the Centerville First United Methodist Church, Thursday, November 20, 2008. Speaking for the evening will be Weldon Floyd and Jill Hughson, both being Information Technologists with Texas AgriLife Extension Service.

We ask that you pay a $10.00 registration fee in advance to cover the cost of your dinner. Please pre-register and pre-pay by calling 903-536-2531, before November 14, 2008. You may also mail in your registration to Texas AgriLife Extension Service Leon County, PO Box 188, Centerville, TX 75833. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.


Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Leon County 4-H Member Honored!

Reagan Robertson of Leon County 4-H was awarded the Texas 4-H Gold Star
Award, Monday October 27, 2008 at a formal banquet in Waco, Texas on the
campus of Baylor University. The Gold Star Award is the highest county
level achievement award made available through Texas 4-H. It is awarded
only once in a member’s 4-H career. Counties have award quotas based on
the number of senior 4-H members. The award is presented to the most
deserving young people without regard to gender. The following are
minimum requirements that must be met: 1. The member must be at least 15
years of age as of August 31 of the current year of the award and must
have completed at least 3 years in 4-H, including the current year.
2. The member must submit an awards program record book in the year he
or she is to be considered for the award. 3. The member must have
completed projects in three different project areas, have submitted
appropriate records on the projects, and have participated in one or
more activities in at least three of the following areas, Method
demonstration/4-H presentation contests, Projects, Citizenship
activities, Project exhibits, Leadership labs, Public relations
(speeches, poster displays, radio, TV, newspapers)

PIC CAPTION: County Extension Agents Tommy & Wendy Neyland, Reagan
Robertson, Parents Clare & Donnie Robertson









Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

4-H Livestock Team

Leon County 4-H Livestock Judging Team celebrates success! As a team
they placed 5th out of 23 teams at the Aggiefest Livestock Judging
Contest held in College Station, Texas on October 25, 2008. As
individuals Cody Oden placed 12th, Braxton Wilson was 18th and Korley
Wilson was 45th. In the Beef Division (2 pens of Market Steer, 1 pen of
Angus Bulls and 5 Questions) Cody Oden placed first with a score of 165.
4-H Livestock judging is an academic activity, as well as a competitive
opportunity which offers those interested in judging an opportunity to
learn and grow within the Livestock Industry. 4-H Livestock judging
members practice to prepare for competition and compete as a team at
regional and state competitions against other 4-H and FFA teams. Members
spend time traveling as a competitive team. Each individual has the
option of obtaining coaching and assistance from the Leon County 4-H
Livestock Judging Coach Mr. Jimmy Richardson or County Extension Agent
Tommy Neyland and 4-H peers. Lessons in responsibility, leadership,
maturity, pride, dedication, and success are all a part of the Leon
County 4-H Livestock Judging program. These values are taught through
competition and hard work and are necessary for the competitor to become
a “true winner.”

pic Caption: Leon County 4-H Livestock Judging Team, Cody Oden, Braxton
Wilson, and Korley Wilson






Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Leon County Hay and Agriculture Trade Show

The Annual Leon County Hay Show will be held on Wednesday, October 22,
2008 at the Buffalo Civic Center. The Leon County Beef and Forage
Committee jointly with the Freestone County Beef and Forage Committee
and Texas Agrilife Extension Service will host the Hay Show this year.
The program will start with an Agriculture Trade Show at 4:30 pm and
follow with a meal which will be at 6:00 pm. The guest speaker for this
year’s hay show will be Vanessa Corriaer the new Forage Specialist with
The Texas Agrilife Extension Service. If you want to learn how to get
the most out of your winter grass, save money and increase profits, you
should attend. We will be offering two CEU’s toward recertification of
private, non commercial and commercial applicator licenses for attending
the evening program.
Local sponsors are Normangee State Bank, Oakwood State Bank, Wells
Fargo Centerville, First National Bank Buffalo, Farmers State Bank
Jewett, and Citizens State Bank Buffalo- Centerville. The sponsors
listed above have been a part of the Leon County Hay Show for several
years. These sponsors pay for your meal and the plaques. During the
selection process a Best of Show and Reserve Best of Show will be
selected and they will be awarded the night of the Hay Show. All
persons interested in attending should Contact The Texas Agrilife
Extension Service in Leon County by Tuesday, October 20, 2008 at
903.536.2531 or by email at leon@ag.tamu.edu to reserve your dinner.


Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Tree Farm

Texas Agrilife Extension Master Gardeners in Leon County tour local
Christmas Tree Farm. Steve and Carole Huebner of Leona, Texas hosted the
new master gardener interns for a very informative session on growing
Christmas Trees. There's nothing like going directly to the farm and
cutting down your own tree. You won't get a tree any fresher and you can
pick just the right tree, that's for sure. But there's more to it than
that. It can be a memorable family adventure out in the country; these
tips will help you prepare for your visit. What to expect at the farm.
Saws and equipment- Saws are usually provided, and most will cut the
tree for you if you'd rather not cut it yourself. Some farms let you
choose the tree, but not cut it yourself, so be sure to ask. Most farms
also provide wheelbarrows, wagons or hay rides for transport. Many will
wrap your tree and tie it on your car for you. If you’re planning to
haul your tree home on the roof of your car, bring a sheet of plastic or
an old blanket to protect the paint and finish. You may also want to
bring your own rope or bungee cords. Shaking - The trees have been
living outside all year. Trees are shaken on a mechanical shaker to
remove any brown needles from inside the tree or leaves from other
trees. Baling - Many farms also have baling (tree wrapping for
transporting) or bagging for no fee or a small fee. Refreshments –
Some tree farms provide free coffee or hot chocolate; others sell drinks
or other food items, or bring your own picnic lunch. Miscellaneous -
Tree stands are usually sold on the farms. Many farms also sell disposal
bags which will help to make clean up after Christmas much easier! Gift
shops - Christmas-themed gift shops selling ornaments, wreaths,
stockings and crafts are standard at many farms! What to bring? Dress in
old clothes and hiking boots or old athletic shoes; you want to be
comfortable and not worried about staining or tearing your clothes! If
the ground is wet, it can stain or damage nice shoes, so wear your beat
up old ones! Bring heavy gloves to protect your hands and a jacket or
other garment to protect your arms. Bring layered clothing, and some
extra socks and a blanket. Dress for the weather. The kids may get wet
feet, or cold. When you get back to the car, you can wrap them up in the
blanket and they'll sleep all the way home! Don't forget the camera to
capture those memories you're making. But remember you'll be out on the
farm so you may want to bring a cheap or disposable camera rather than
an expensive one. Transporting your tree home: prepare the tree - get
the tree shaken and baled (wrapped) before loading it. Loading and
transporting the tree – Most farms will help you load your tree into
your truck, or tie it onto your car. Just make sure its tied on
securely. Pull on the tree and make sure it's tightly tied. Drive home
safely! Enjoy your real Christmas tree, and begin a new family
tradition!







Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Hay Show results

The Annual Leon County Hay Show was held on Wednesday, October 22, 2008
at the Buffalo Civic Center. The Leon County Beef and Forage Committee
jointly with the Freestone County Beef and Forage Committee and Texas
Agrilife Extension Service hosted the Hay Show this year. The program
started with an Agriculture Trade Show at 4:30 pm and follow with a meal
which started at 6:00 pm. The guest speaker for this year’s hay show
was Vanessa Corriaer the new Forage Specialist with The Texas Agrilife
Extension Service. Selected as Champion of show was Buddy Refrino of
Normangee and Rserve Champion of Show was Ed Phillips.
Local sponsors are Normangee State Bank, Oakwood State Bank, Wells
Fargo Centerville, First National Bank Buffalo, Farmers State Bank
Jewett, and Citizens State Bank Buffalo- Centerville. The sponsors
listed above have been a part of the Leon County Hay Show for several
years. These sponsors paid for the meal and the plaques. During the
selection process a Best of Show and Reserve Best of Show will be
selected and they will be awarded the night of the Hay Show.


PIC - CEA Tommy Neyland presents Champion of show Buddy Refrino award.





Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Special Notice

Major Lamb and Goat Validation
October 23, 2008
4:00pm to 6:00pm
Centerville, Texas- Leon County Livestock Show Facility

Leon County Youth Livestock Show
Steer and Heifer Validation
November 3, 2008
4:00pm to 6:00pm
Buffalo Livestock Auction

Major Show Entry Night
Leon County 4-H
November 13, 2008
Leon County Annex Grand Room
4:00pm to 6:00pm


Major Swine Validation
November 25, 2008
4:00pm to 6:00pm
Leon High School Ag Science Department



Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Local Career Fair

Extension Service in Leon County's second annual College Career Fair was held at the Jewett Civic Center, Monday, October 6, 2008. College and Career representatives were available from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. Almost 45 college and careers from across the country sent representatives to meet with Leon County secondary students and their parents. Opportunities were available for exploring college pathways based on individual needs and interests. Leon County Extension Agents Wendy and Tommy Neyland were on hand to facilitate the event and to answer questions. A variety of informational exhibits allowed participants to learn about financial aid, NCAA, essay writing for applications and scholarships, services for students with disabilities and much more. Bus service was provided from each of the five high schools throughout the morning and over 275 local youth participated in this event. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.




Pic # 1 Local students visit with college and career representitives


Texas Agrilife



Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Special Notice

Major Lamb and Goat Validation
October 23, 2008
4:00pm to 6:00pm
Centerville, Texas- Leon County Livestock Show Facility

Leon County Youth Livestock Show
Steer and Heifer Validation
November 3, 2008
4:00pm to 6:00pm
Buffalo Livestock Auction

Major Show Entry Night
Leon County 4-H
November 13, 2008
Leon County Annex Grand Room
4:00pm to 6:00pm


Major Swine Validation
November 25, 2008
4:00pm to 6:00pm
Leon High School Ag Science Department



Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Leon County Agriculture Trade and Hay Show

The Annual Leon County Hay Show will be held on Wednesday, October 22,
2008 at the Buffalo Civic Center. The Leon County Beef and Forage
Committee jointly with the Freestone County Beef and Forage Committee
and Texas Agrilife Extension Service will host the Hay Show this year.
The program will start with an Agriculture Trade Show at 4:30 pm and
follow with a meal which will be at 6:00 pm. The guest speaker for this
year’s hay show will be Vanessa Corriaer the new Forage Specialist with
The Texas Agrilife Extension Service. If you want to learn how to get
the most out of your winter grass, save money and increase profits, you
should attend. We will be offering two CEU’s toward recertification of
private, non commercial and commercial applicator licenses for attending
the evening program.
Local sponsors are Normangee State Bank, Oakwood State Bank, Wells
Fargo Centerville, First National Bank Buffalo, Farmers State Bank
Jewett, and Citizens State Bank Buffalo- Centerville. The sponsors
listed above have been a part of the Leon County Hay Show for several
years. These sponsors pay for your meal and the plaques. During the
selection process a Best of Show and Reserve Best of Show will be
selected and they will be awarded the night of the Hay Show. All
persons interested in attending should Contact The Texas Agrilife
Extension Service in Leon County by Tuesday, October 20, 2008 at
903.536.2531 or by email at leon@ag.tamu.edu to reserve your dinner.



Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Local Master Gardeners get close look at Herbs!

Texas Agrilife Extension Service Master Gardeners in Leon County had the opportunity to tour an herb garden and learn how to put the herbs to good use in their own gardens and kitchens.
Herbs are essential ingredients for flavoring and spicing up recipes all over the world. Without them, eating would be pretty bland. Herbs add flavor, character, and uniqueness to recipes. Used alone or in combination, they help to make cooking fun and enjoyable, and eating a sheer joy! Herb gardening can be done in a very little space. All it takes is a few herb plants, grown along the side of the house or garage, and you have an ample supply for the kitchen. Try growing herbs in a container on your balcony or deck. They are very comfortable in windowsill planters, too. Many herbs make good indoor houseplants during the winter months.

Pic :






Leon County Texas Agrilife Master Gardeners making herb vinegar.







Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Youth Leadership Day

Leon County 4-H members and leaders attended the State Fair on Saturday, September 27, 2008, for Youth Leadership Day. Over 125 youth and adults represented all parts of Leon County. A canned food drive competition was held amongst 4-H clubs, FFA and FCCLA chapters and Leon County 4-H won second in the canned food drive over all with 303 pounds of food donated. After attending a leadership seminar, lead by keynote speaker, Connie Lott, and the Texas 4-H , FFA and FCCLA Officers the youth had the opportunity to explore what the State Fair has to offer. Each participant recieved a T-Shirt. Leon County 4-H shirts were sponsored by Leon County Farm Bureau.



Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Local 4-H Youth Honored

September 27, 2008 proved to be a remarkable day for Leon County 4-H member Will Mahaffey. During a formal Banquet at the Sharaton Hotel in Dallas, Texas Will was recognized for his outstanding accomplishments in the Texas 4-H program. As one of the top seven officers in Texas 4-H which is the largest youth organization in the state of Texas Will was awarded a Leadership Award and recognized along with other youth leaders of Texas 4-H, FFA and FCCLA. The event was coordinated and hosted by the State Fair of Texas in their tradition of recognizing young Texas Leaders in Agriculture.





Pic Caption:
Tommy & Wendy Neyland - Leon County Extension Agents, Commissioner & Mrs. Dean Player, Will Mahaffey, Judge & Mrs. Byron Ryder, and parents Lisa & Steve Noey



Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Hay Show

The Annual Leon County Hay Show will be held on Wednesday, October 22,
2008 at the Buffalo Civic Center. The deadline for submitting samples
is Friday, September 26, 2008. Samples should not be taken from the
outer 4 to 6 inches of round bales. Samples from square bales should
come out of the middle of the bale. Most producers place their samples
in feed sacks, we need about half a sack of hay. Write your name, and
type of grass sampled (Bahia, Coastal, Tifton, Jiggs, Ryegrass, etc).
There will be a charge of $5.00 for each sample submitted after the
first free sample. Normal cost of samples is $10, hay show participants
will be receiving a $5 discount on each sample submitted. Hay samples
and checks, made payable to Ag Fund can be left at: Texas Agrilife
Extension Service in Leon County, Davis Feed Centerville-Buffalo, Cattle
Country, Centerville Feed, M&M Farm Supply and A&A Feed.
The Leon County Beef and Forage Committee jointly with the
Freestone County Beef and Forage Committee and Texas Agrilife Extension
Service will host the Hay Show this year. The program will start with a
trade show and follow with a meal which will be at 6:00 pm. The guest
speaker for this year’s hay show will be Vanessa Corriaer the new
Forage Specialist with The Texas Agrilife Extension Service. If you
want to learn how to get the most out of your winter grass, save money
and increase profits, you should attend. We will be offering two
CEU’s toward recertification of private, non commercial and
commercial applicator licenses for attending the evening program.
Local sponsors are Normangee State Bank, Oakwood State Bank,
Wells Fargo Centerville, First National Bank Buffalo, Farmers State Bank
Jewett, and Citizens State Bank Buffalo- Centerville. The sponsors
listed above have been a part of the Leon County Hay Show for several
years. These sponsors pay for your meal and the plaques. During the
selection process a Best of Show and Reserve Best of Show will be
selected and they will be awarded the night of the Hay Show. All
persons interested in attending should Contact The Texas Agrilife
Extension Service in Leon County by Tuesday, October 20, 2008 at
903.536.2531 or by email at leon@ag.tamu.edu to reserve your dinner.



Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

4-H Week

Leon County Officals sign proclamation during court to recognize October 5-11 as National 4-H Week in Leon County.

Picture:




Seated Left to right: Commissioner Sullivan, Commissioner Ferguson, Judge Ryder, Commissioner Gaskin, Commissioner Player

Standing Left to Right:Lenora Oden Texas Agrilife Office Manager, Wendy Neyland- CEA, Will Mahaffey, Ryan McCarty, Casey Helfenbein, Taylor McGill, Justin Pistone, Reagan Robertson, Amy Terry, Tommy Neyland, CEA

Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Vetrans Memorial

Leon County Texas Agrilife Extension Service Master Gardeners begin landscaping of the Leon County Vetrans Memorial.





PIC Texas Agrilife Extension Service Master Gardeners Jeff Miller and Mary Foucheux work on the memorial project.







Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Marketing Program

Get the latest resources, tips and techniques for selling cattle at the Texas Agrilife Extension Services's first-ever Beef Cattle Marketing Seminar October 1, 2008 at the Buffalo Livestock Auction in Buffalo, Texas.
The classroom-style program will highlight cattle, calf and cull-cow marketing options available to local producers. Sale barn presentations will be given by Russ De Cordova of Buffalo Livestock Auction and he will also discuss all other market options for local producers. Dr. Jason Cleere with Texas Agrilife Extension will discuss the advanatges in marketing with a good vac program. The seminar will open with registration at 6:00p.m. In an effort to better prepare for this event participants are encouraged to preregister by contacting the Texas Agrilife Extension Service in Leon County at 903.536.2531 or at leon-tx@tamu.edu We will seek to provide reasonable accommodations for all persons with disabilities for this meeting. We request that you contact Texas Agrilife Extension three days before the event to advise us of the auxiliary aid or service that will be required. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.


Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Cow Country Cancellation

In the best interest of the beef & forage producers impacted by Hurricane Ike, the 2008 Cow Country Congress program scheduled for September 26, 2008 has been canceled. As of Saturday electricity was still off at the host ranch and they had 19 trees down in pens near the barn. Due to scheduling conflicts with the location and landowner, We do not see the possibility of a reschedule for this program.




Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Recovery From IKE

Due to the storms that hit us last week from hurricane Ike there wasn't much damage at our location. We only had a couple of trees go down. The aftermath from the storm took many of trees and power lines down causing lots of power outages in the area. I know there was lots of fence that might got took down and cattle will be roaming free.You might want to keep in mind that there will be cattle in other pastures, on the roads and cattle rustling. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all victims of hurricane Ike and hope that everything will turn out for the best.


My Country Tractor LLC.

Joshua J. Mudd

www.mycountrytractor.com

Marketing Decision

Get the latest resources, tips and techniques for selling cattle at the Texas Agrilife Extension Services's first-ever Beef Cattle Marketing Seminar October 1, 2008 at the Buffalo Livestock Auction in Buffalo, Texas.
The classroom-style program will highlight cattle, calf and cull-cow marketing options available to local producers. Sale barn presentations will be given by Russ De Cordova of Buffalo Livestock Auction and he will also discuss all other market options for local producers. Dr. Jason Cleere with Texas Agrilife Extension will discuss the advanatges in marketing with a good vac program. The seminar will open with registration at 6:00p.m. In an effort to better prepare for this event participants are encouraged to preregister by contacting the Texas Agrilife Extension Service in Leon County at 903.536.2531 or at leon-tx@tamu.edu We will seek to provide reasonable accommodations for all persons with disabilities for this meeting. We request that you contact Texas Agrilife Extension three days before the event to advise us of the auxiliary aid or service that will be required. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.




Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

2008 Cow Country Congress

Cow Country Congress is an annual multi-county event supported by the
Extension Beef & Forage Committees from Walker, Madison, Houston,
Trinity, Leon, Freestone and Anderson Counties. This educational
program rotates within the group of host counties each year. In
addition to the traditional seven county area, beef producers from
outside these counties are invited to attend this educational program.
Participants in attendance will have the opportunity to visit with a
variety of commercial exhibitors several times during the course of the
day between presentations, demonstrations, and tours of the host
property.

The 2008 Cow Country Congress program will meet at the Corlay Farm
& Cattle Co. located outside Huntsville at Dodge, Texas. The program is
scheduled for Friday, September 26, 2008. Corlay Farm & Cattle Co. is a
multifaceted agricultural enterprise owned by Dr. Jody Crawford of
Huntsville, TX. Dr. Crawford’s farm has been known in Walker County
for extremely high quality hay production, and intensive beef herd
management characterized by progressive reproductive practices. Dr.
Crawford’s interest in wildlife management has developed into a
variety of wildlife related enterprises and projects which will be
viewed on the ranch during the program. Corlay Farm & Cattle Co. has
had an ongoing quail management and re-establishment program for many
years and is now diversifying into Whitetail deer operations. Topics
discussed at this Cow Country Congress will include native grass
pastures, forage legumes, fertilizer alternatives, chute-side management
practices, and artificial insemination and embryo transfer options for
smaller cattle operations. This event will showcase truly outstanding
facilities for working both cattle and Whitetail deer.

Program registration will begin at 8:30 AM. The program will
begin with introductions at 9:00 AM. Individuals interested in
attending the 2008 Cow Country Congress should R.S.V.P. prior to
September 22nd to the Leon County Extension Office (903) 536-2531, or
one of the other participating County Extension Offices from any of the
seven sponsoring counties. A registration fee of $15.00 per person
will provide each participant a Steak Lunch with ALL the trimmings! In
addition to the benefits of a catered lunch, on-site commercial vendors,
and touring the ranch operation, each participant with a Texas
Department of Agriculture- Pesticide Applicators License will be
eligible for 2 hours of Continuing Education Credits for renewal of
their license. Additional participant credit of 3.5 hours
will be given for Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) recertification.
Directions and a printable map may be downloaded from the Walker County
Texas AgriLife Extension Service web page at http://walker-tx.tamu.edu.

Provisions from the American Disability Act will be considered
when planning educational programs and activities. Please notify the
County Extension Office if you plan on attending an Extension
Educational program and need specialized services. Notification of at
least two weeks in advance is needed, so that we may have ample time to
acquire resources needed to meet your needs. Extension programs serve
people of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex,
religion, disability or national origin. The Texas A&M University
System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners
Courts of Texas Cooperating.






Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

TAGS

All 4-H Members wishing to show swine projects at the Major Spring 2009 Shows in Texas need to order tags by contacting the Texas Agrilife Extension Service at 903.536.2531 by September 22, 2008. Each tag will cost $10.00 and the tags will not be ordered until payment is recieved.




Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Hay Show

Hay Samples are being accepted for the 2008 Leon County Hay Show.
The Annual Leon County Hay Show will be held on Wednesday, October 22,
2008 at the Buffalo Civic Center. The deadline for submitting samples
is Friday, September 26, 2008. Samples should not be taken from the
outer 4 to 6 inches of round bales. Samples from square bales should
come out of the middle of the bale. Most producers place their samples
in feed sacks, we need about half a sack of hay. Write your name, and
type of grass sampled (Bahia, Coastal, Tifton, Jiggs, Ryegrass, etc).
There will be a charge of $5.00 for each sample submitted after the
first free sample. Normal cost of samples is $10, hay show participants
will be receiving a $5 discount on each sample submitted. Hay samples
and checks, made payable to Ag Fund can be left at: Texas Agrilife
Extension Service in Leon County, Davis Feed Centerville-Buffalo, Cattle
Country, Centerville Feed, M&M Farm Supply and A&A Feed.
The Leon County Beef and Forage Committee jointly with the
Freestone County Beef and Forage Committee and Texas Agrilife Extension
Service will host the Hay Show this year. The program will start with a
trade show and follow with a meal which will be at 6:00 pm. The guest
speaker for this year’s hay show will be Vanessa Corriaer the new
Forage Specialist with The Texas Agrilife Extension Service. If you
want to learn how to get the most out of your winter grass, save money
and increase profits, you should attend. We will be offering two
CEU’s toward recertification of private, non commercial and
commercial applicator licenses for attending the evening program.
Local sponsors are Normangee State Bank, Oakwood State Bank,
Wells Fargo Centerville, First National Bank Buffalo, Farmers State Bank
Jewett, and Citizens State Bank Buffalo- Centerville. The sponsors
listed above have been a part of the Leon County Hay Show for several
years. These sponsors pay for your meal and the plaques. During the
selection process a Best of Show and Reserve Best of Show will be
selected and they will be awarded the night of the Hay Show. All
persons interested in attending should Contact The Texas Agrilife
Extension Service in Leon County by Tuesday, October 20, 2008 at
903.536.2531 or by email at leon@ag.tamu.edu to reserve your dinner.




Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Fair Time

A DAY AT THE FAIR!
Leon County 4-H will again participate in Youth Leadership Day on Saturday, September 27, 2008 at THE STATE FAIR OF TEXAS. The program will include a food drive competition between (4-H) participants. North Texas Food Bank will be on hand to accept donations. Prizes will be awarded to first and second place clubs from each 4-H organization.
The program will commence at 10:00 AM sharp, and will include a welcome from State Fair dignitaries and a film experience on the new Jumbotron scoreboard. This year's featured speaker will be Mr. Todd Staples, Texas Commissioner of Agriculture. At the culmination of the program, Commissioner Staples will lead attendees to the Food & Fiber Building where each student can experience Texas Agriculture and pick up their goodie bag. Following this all 4-H ers will have time to enjoy a day at the fair. Sign Up Lists and Deposits are due to the Leon County, Texas Agrilife Extension Service no later than 5:00 PM, September 19, 2008 so contact your local 4-H Club manager asap in order to process T-Shirt orders.



Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Making the Marketing Decision

Get the latest resources, tips and techniques for selling cattle at the Texas Agrilife Extension Services's first-ever Beef Cattle Marketing Seminar October 1, 2008 at the Buffalo Livestock Auction in Buffalo, Texas.
The classroom-style program will highlight cattle, calf and cull-cow marketing options available to local producers. Sale barn presentations will be given by Russ De Cordova of Buffalo Livestock Auction and he will also discuss all other market options for local producers. Dr. Jason Cleere with Texas Agrilife Extension will discuss the advanatges in marketing with a good vac program. The seminar will open with registration at 6:00p.m. In an effort to better prepare for this event participants are encouraged to preregister by contacting the Texas Agrilife Extension Service in Leon County at 903.536.2531 or at leon-tx@tamu.edu We will seek to provide reasonable accommodations for all persons with disabilities for this meeting. We request that you contact Texas Agrilife Extension three days before the event to advise us of the auxiliary aid or service that will be required. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.



Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

MG Propagation

Local Master Gardener Interns get a lesson on Plant Propagation this week during the Texas Agrilife Master Gardener Traing at the Leon County Annex. Most plants reproduce more of their kind through production of seeds. This is SEXUAL REPRODUCTION and it involves the exchange of genetic material between two parent plants. Many ornamental plants do not come "true" from seed. To increase the numbers of these plants, gardeners and horticulturists use ASEXUAL PROPAGATION. In asexual propagation, the new plants are genetically exact copies or clones of a single parent plant. The methods used in asexual propagation range from taking leaf cuttings of African violets to grafting apple cuttings onto root stocks. Sexual propagation of plants involves the exchange of genetic material between parents to produce a new generation. Sexual propagation offers the following advantages:

* It is usually the only method of producing new varieties or cultivars.
* It is often the cheapest and easiest method of producing large numbers of plants.
* It can be a way to avoid certain diseases.
* It may be the only way to propagate some species.

PIC Caption:
Gail Warren Texas Agrilfe Extension Service Master Gardener provides instruction to Leon County MG Interns.

Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Master Gardener Composting

Texas Agrilife Extension Service Master Gardener Interns get a lesson on composting.

Composting is the decomposition of plant remains and other once-living materials to make an earthy, dark, crumbly substance that is excellent for adding to houseplants or enriching garden soil. It is the way to recycle your yard and kitchen wastes, and is a critical step in reducing the volume of garbage needlessly sent to landfills for disposal. It's easy to learn how to compost.

There are a tremendous number of options for containing your compost. Some people choose to go binless, simply building a compost pile in a convenient spot on the ground. Others build bins from materials such as recycled pallets, or two-by-fours and plywood. And, of course, there are many commercial bins on the market.

Composting is not a new idea. In the natural world, composting is what happens as leaves pile up on the forest floor and begin to decay. Eventually, the rotting leaves are returned to the soil, where living roots can finish the recycling process by reclaiming the nutrients from the decomposed leaves. Composting may be at the root of agriculture as well. Some scientists have speculated that as early peoples dumped food wastes in piles near their camps, the wastes rotted and were terrific habitat for the seeds of any food plants that sprouted there. Perhaps people began to recognize that dump heaps were good places for food crops to grow, and began to put seeds there intentionally.

Today, the use of composting to turn organic wastes into a valuable resource is expanding rapidly in the United States and in other countries, as landfill space becomes scarce and expensive, and as people become more aware of the impacts they have on the environment. In ten years, composting will probably be as commonplace as recycling aluminum cans is today, both in the backyard and on an industrial scale. Many states in the USA have stated goals or legislative mandates to drastically reduce the volume of waste being sent to landfills. Utilizing yard and kitchen wastes (which make up about 30% of the waste stream in the USA is a big part of the plan to minimize waste overall.

Pic Caption




Texas Agrilife Master Gardeners Charlene Manning and Mary Foucheux provide new interns with a lesson on composting.

Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Leon County 4-Her serves as Texas 4-H Officer

During the Texas 4-H Summer Council Training in Lubbock, Texas July 19-22 Leon County 4-Her Will Mahaffey was chosen to serve as an officer for the Texas 4-H Council in 2008. This marks the first time a Leon County 4-H member has been elected to this level of representation. The 4-H Council is a body of 33 young people elected to fill the highest positions young people can attain in the 4-H organization in a state. Being a State 4-H Council member is often seen as the pinnacle of a young person's 4-H career. Council members plan retreats, conferences, and camps for the 4-H members that they represent and are responsible for industry contacts and public appearances representing the state organization. They receive opportunities that are not available to other 4-H members, such as travel, networking, and leadership training. 4-H members spend many years in preparation to run for one of these coveted positions.


Picture Caption: Mahaffey with cake honoring his achievement at the Leon County 4-H Council Meeting
Tommy Neyland- County Extension Agent, Will Mahaffey, Wendy Neyland County Extension Agent




Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Is 4-H 4 U

Is 4-H 4 U?

4-H is the youth development program of the Texas AgriLife Extension
Service. It
focuses on the needs, concerns and interests of young people. Its aim
is to help
youth gain a positive self-concept, rational social behavior, knowledge
and problem-solving capabilities. Through planned individual projects,
meetings, group activities and participation in different events,
members develop new skills, learn cooperation, develop leadership
abilities, improve their citizenship and have fun. Young people from
all ethnic or cultural groups, regardless of geographic location may
participate. Age groups generally range from 9 to 19; our local
Extension office has specific information. A 4-H member is any youth
who
enrolls and participates in a planned sequence of learning
experiences.
Members are guided by Extension staff members or trained volunteers.
The minimum criterion for membership is participation in six or more
learning activities 20 to 60 minutes long. The length of the learning
event should be adapted to the attention span appropriate to the age of
youth involved.
This project experience can take place once a week or when
appropriate.
Youth participation is the key to 4-H. The learning-by doing model of
education works best when young people are fully involved. The greater
the involvement, the greater the educational benefit.

What are participation avenues in 4-H?

Youth can participate in 4-H programs via 4-H clubs, short term groups,
and 4-H activities.

4-H Clubs
These are organized groups that meet at regularly scheduled times with
one or more volunteer leaders and elected youth officers. 4-H clubs
normally meet on a 9 to 12-month basis with one or more meetings per
month. Several types of clubs can be organized:

● Community or neighborhood clubs consist of members who live
reasonably close to each other. These clubs often offer a wide variety
of 4-H projects to
the participating members.
● Project clubs are organized around a common interest in a
particular project or group of projects. Project clubs can be organized
to learn about gardening, photography, animal husbandry, theater arts
and other areas of interest to youth.
● School clubs are organized in public or private schools. Project
activities are usually conducted outside of school hours and can be
organized around a single project for all or several members. These
clubs are usually led by teachers or other volunteers.

Short-term groups
4-H members work on short-term projects that are completed in six or
more meetings. Each group works on a specific topic or project. Groups
work under the supervision of an adult volunteer or teen leader. Two
major types of short-term groups are recognized in this category:
● School curriculum enrichment: Through cooperative arrangements
between schools and the Texas AgriLife Extension Service, schoolteachers
present Extension-developed learning materials in the classroom. These
educational experiences are designed to enhance the educational programs
of the schools.
● Special interest projects: Usually, these groups organize for the
duration of the project instruction under the leadership of adult or
teen volunteers. Groups can have a formal structure or not. At the end
of each program, youth are invited to become involved in either
additional special interest projects or organized clubs.
An example in this category is the Expanded Nutrition Program for
Youth. In this program, youth groups receive instruction on food and
good nutrition practices using special educational resources.
4-H Activities
Many types of activities and projects are available to 4-H members.
Every 4-H member is expected to complete at least one
Extension-sponsored project every year. In addition to project activity,
4-H youth are expected to participate in club organization and
management, community service or service learning projects and
leadership development. Many young people attend leadership programs,
competitive or educational events, and camp programs as part of their
4-H experience.

Who sponsors 4-H?
4-H is sponsored jointly by the land grant universities of each U.S.
state, the Extension Service of the United States Department of
Agriculture, (USDA) and County Commissioner’s Courts. Many private
donors also provide either financial or in-kind program support.
Volunteers are the cornerstone of the 4-H program in the community. They
conduct educational activities with youth and serve in other specialized
roles. Orientation and assistance with the total 4-H program is
provided by county Extension educators or agents in each county. State
and area 4-H and youth development specialists support County Staff with
materials as well as technical and management assistance.

The organization
Local 4-H members, parents and volunteer 4-H leaders determine the
objectives and establish annual goals for their 4-H club or group. These
goals are normally established on the basis of goals identified for the
4-H program at the county level. Most counties have a 4-H subcommittee
concerned with overall planning, program direction and support for
Extension 4-H and youth work. The subcommittee’s work is coordinated
by the Extension staff in the county.

Many counties also have a county adult leaders association which serves
primarily as a vehicle for providing volunteer training and support of
the 4-H program. Furthermore, many counties have a county 4-H council
composed of one or more youth representatives of each 4-H club or group
in the county to enhance countywide coordination and participation in
planning and conducting 4-H activities.
4-H Emblem and colors
The 4-H club emblem is a four-leaf clover with the letter “H” on
each leaf. The four H’s” stand for head, heart, hands and health.
The leaves of the clover are green and the “H’s” are white. The
white is for purity. Green is nature’s most common color and is
symbolic of youth, life and growth. The 4-H Name and Emblem belong to
the 4-H Youth Development Program, under the authority of USDA. It is a
federally protected emblem by the U.S. Congress under code “18
4SC707.”

4-H Motto
“To Make the Best Better”

4-H Pledge
“I pledge:
My Head to clearer thinking,
My Heart to greater loyalty,
My Hands to larger service, and
My Health to better living, for my club, my community,
my country, and my world.”

4-H Prayer
Help me, O Lord, to live so that the world may
be a little better because Thou didst make me.

2008-2009 Meeting Schedules

Buffalo 4-H
Jennifer McGill, Club Manager/903-322-8908
9-15-08 First Meeting
9-22-08 Orientation Meeting For New Members
Meets 3rd Monday, Buffalo Elementary School, 7 PM

Centerville 4-H
Rachel Johnson, Co-Club Manager/903-344-1379
8-26-08 First Meeting
9-23-08 Orientation Meeting for New Members
Meets 3rd Tuesday, Centerville High School Cafeteria, 7 PM

Leon 4-H
Ruth Spillman, Club Manager/903-626-5785
9-8-08 First Meeting and Orientation For New Members
Meets 2nd Monday , First Methodist Church, Jewett, 7 PM

Normangee 4-H
Patty Winkler, Club Manager/936-3966484
9-8-08 First Meeting
9-15-08 Orientation Meeting for New Members
Meets 2nd Monday, Normangee High School Cafeteria, 7 PM

Oakwood 4-H
Becky Cockrell, Club Manager.903-545-2348
8-25-08 First Meeting
9-2-08 Orientation For New Members
Meets 3rd Monday, Oakwood School Cafeteria, 7 PM

Horse Club
Sandy Hennesey, Club Manager/903-536-1116
9-9-08 First Meeting, 6 or 7 PM
9-16-08 Orientation For New Members, 7 PM
Call For Location

All dates and times are subject to change. Please contact the Texas
AgriLife Extension Service at 903-536-2531 or a Club Manager for more
information. Educational programs of Texas AgriLife Extension Service
are open to all people without regard to race, color, sex, disability,
religion, age, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System,
U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of
Texas Cooperating.


Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Leon County Hay Show

Hay Samples are being accepted for the 2008 Leon County Hay Show.
The Annual Leon County Hay Show will be held on Wednesday, October 22,
2008 at the Buffalo Civic Center. The deadline for submitting samples
is Friday, September 26, 2008. Samples should not be taken from the
outer 4 to 6 inches of round bales. Samples from square bales should
come out of the middle of the bale. Most producers place their samples
in feed sacks, we need about half a sack of hay. Write your name, and
type of grass sampled (Bahia, Coastal, Tifton, Jiggs, Ryegrass, etc).
There will be a charge of $5.00 for each sample submitted after the
first free sample. Normal cost of samples is $10, hay show participants
will be receiving a $5 discount on each sample submitted. Hay samples
and checks, made payable to Ag Fund can be left at: Texas Agrilife
Extension Service in Leon County, Davis Feed Centerville-Buffalo, Cattle
Country, Centerville Feed and M&M Farm Supply.
The Leon County Beef and Forage Committee jointly with the
Freestone County Beef and Forage Committee and Texas Agrilife Extension
Service will host the Hay Show this year. The program will start with a
trade show then a meal which will be at 6:00 pm. The guest speaker for
this year’s hay show will be Vanessa Corriaer the new Forage
Specialist with The Texas Agrilife Extension Service. If you want to
learn how to get the most out of your winter grass, save money and
increase profits, you should attend. We will be offering two CEU’s
toward recertification of private, non commercial and commercial
applicator licenses for attending the evening program.
Local sponsors are Normangee State Bank, Oakwood State Bank,
Wells Fargo Centerville, First National Bank Buffalo, and Citizens State
Bank Buffalo- Centerville. The sponsors listed above have been a part
of the Leon County Hay Show for several years. These sponsors pay for
your meal and the plaques. During the selection process a Best of Show
and Reserve Best of Show will be selected and they will be awarded the
night of the Hay Show. All persons interested in attending should
Contact The Texas Cooperative Extension Office in Leon County by
Tuesday, October 9, 2007 at 903.536.2531 or by email at leon@ag.tamu.edu
to reserve your chili dinner.





Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

MG Tour

Members of the Texas Agrilife Extension Service Master Gardener
Training Class have started with a field trip that gave an opportunity
to see many innovative and instructive garden demonstrations.

One of the stops was to the A&M Horticulture facilities. A few blocks
from the main College Station campus, the Horticulture Department
gardens are both beautiful and useful.

The beauty comes from the carefully designed beds of flowers, trees,
shrubs, and water features. They are all filled with plants appropriate
for the area, and even at the end of a hot summer, color was everywhere.
The facility effectively uses the “mound and mulch” philosophy to
produce their success. The gardens also serve as a useful research area,
so our Leon County gardener group saw such things as a dramatic group of
about ten varieties of ornamental peppers, each covered with huge crops
of colorful fruits.

Picture Caption:
Mika Lee with the Horticulture Gardens at Texas A&M tours the Leon
County Master Gardeners through the demonstration gardens.

Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Cow Country Congress

2008 Cow Country Congress
To Be Held in Walker County at Corlay
Farm & Cattle Co.
September 26th, 2008

Cow Country Congress is an annual multi-county event supported by the
Extension Beef & Forage Committees from Walker, Madison, Houston,
Trinity, Leon, Freestone and Anderson Counties. This educational
program rotates within the group of host counties each year. In
addition to the traditional seven county area, beef producers from
outside these counties are invited to attend this educational program.
Participants in attendance will have the opportunity to visit with a
variety of commercial exhibitors several times during the course of the
day between presentations, demonstrations, and tours of the host
property.

The 2008 Cow Country Congress program will meet at the Corlay Farm
& Cattle Co. located outside Huntsville at Dodge, Texas. The program is
scheduled for Friday, September 26, 2008. Corlay Farm & Cattle Co. is a
multifaceted agricultural enterprise owned by Dr. Jody Crawford of
Huntsville, TX. Dr. Crawford’s farm has been known in Walker County
for extremely high quality hay production, and intensive beef herd
management characterized by progressive reproductive practices. Dr.
Crawford’s interest in wildlife management has developed into a
variety of wildlife related enterprises and projects which will be
viewed on the ranch during the program. Corlay Farm & Cattle Co. has
had an ongoing quail management and re-establishment program for many
years and is now diversifying into Whitetail deer operations. Topics
discussed at this Cow Country Congress will include native grass
pastures, forage legumes, fertilizer alternatives, chute-side management
practices, and artificial insemination and embryo transfer options for
smaller cattle operations. This event will showcase truly outstanding
facilities for working both cattle and Whitetail deer.

Program registration will begin at 8:30 AM. The program will
begin with introductions at 9:00 AM.
Individuals interested in attending the 2008 Cow Country Congress should
R.S.V.P. prior to September 22nd to the Walker
County Extension Office (936) 435-2426, or one of the
other participating County Extension Offices from any of the seven
sponsoring counties. A registration fee of $15.00
per person will provide each participant a Steak Lunch with ALL the
trimmings! In addition to the benefits of a catered lunch,
on-site commercial vendors, and touring the ranch
operation, each participant with a Texas Department of Agriculture-
Pesticide Applicators License will be eligible for 2 hours of
Continuing Education Credits for renewal of their license.
Additional participant credit of 3.5 hours will be given for Beef
Quality Assurance (BQA) recertification. Directions and a printable map
may be downloaded from the Walker County Texas AgriLife Extension
Service web page at http://walker-tx.tamu.edu.

Provisions from the American Disability Act will be considered
when planning educational programs and activities. Please notify the
County Extension Office if you plan on attending an Extension
Educational program and need specialized services. Notification of at
least two weeks in advance is needed, so that we may have ample time to
acquire resources needed to meet your needs. Extension programs serve
people of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex,
religion, disability or national origin. The Texas A&M University
System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners
Courts of Texas Cooperating.


Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Hunter Education

Texas Hunter Education Course

Hunter Education provides instruction in Texas hunting regulations, wildlife management and identification, conservation, ethics, firearm and hunting safety and responsibility, and outdoor skills.



Who is required to take Texas Hunter Education?

Every hunter (including out-of-state hunters) born on or after Sept. 2, 1971, must successfully complete a Hunter Education Training Course. Minimum age of certification is 9 years and cost is $15.



If you were born on or after September 2, 1971 and you are:
* under 9 years of age, you must be accompanied*.
* age 9 through 16, you must successfully complete a hunter education course, or you must be accompanied*.

*Accompanied means: By a person who is at least 17 years of age; who is licensed to hunt in Texas; who has passed hunter education, or who is exempt (born before September 2, 1971), and you must be within normal voice control.


Please note that some federally controlled areas require all hunters using that site to have hunter education certification. In Texas , this includes Corps of Engineers property and most military reservations. Be sure to check with the specific area prior to going hunting.

The traditional hunter education course averages 14 hours of instruction over two or more days. The cost is $15. Courses are offered across the state throughout the year and are taught by certified volunteer instructors. The Texas Cooperative Extension in cooperation with Centerville FFA and local game wardens will be providing a traditional training on August 4th, 5th, 7th, and 8th at the Leon County Annex Grand Activity Room. Each night instruction will begin at 6:30 pm, and the exam will be given on the final night of training. Participants are required to pre-register by contacting the Texas AgriLife Extension Service in Leon County at 903.536.2531. The training will have a limited amount of space and a seat can only be reserved by paying the $15.00 registration fee in advance. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System , U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.



In Christ,

MATTHEW TERRELL TOWNSEND

Lamb and Goat

All Leon County 4-H and FFA Members wishing to show lamb or goat projects at the Major Spring 2008 Shows in Texas need to order tags by contacting the Texas Agrilife Extension Service at 903.536.2531 by August 25, 2008. Each tag will cost $10.00 and the tags will not be ordered until payment is recieved. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.


Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Shooting Sports Kid's Kamp

On Wednesday July 16, 2008,Texas Agrilife Extension Service in Leon
County journeyed to Oakwood to provide a Shooting Sports Kid's Kamp for
local youth. Volunteer trainers for the event were Mike Port, Ron
Morelock, and Steve Meyers. Youth who participated in the event were:
Andy, Gatlynn, and Tobe Johnson, and Corbin Chandler of Centerville, Sam
Wogerer of Jewitt, Cameron Biddle of Normangee, and Steven Millar of
Oakwood. After learning safety practices and the rules of the range,
the outdoorsmen, had a brief lunch break and began firing rounds of
ammunition. The first event was 22 caliber rifle target shooting. The
youth received four practice and recalibration shots on the center
target and then unloaded two live fires at each of the five outside
targets. This miniature challenge was exciting for the youth in many
ways. The youth also worked on their shooting accuracy with high
powered pellet guns. With a target about the size of a closed fist, many
of the youth crushed their clays the first shot. If you desire a child
you know to get involved with kids camps this summer or 4-H Shooting
Sports in the spring months, please call the Texas AgriLife Extension
Service in Leon County at (903)536-2531. Extension programs serve of all
ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion,
disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S.
Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas
Cooperating.



Pic Texas Agrilife Volunteer Mr. Mike Port Watches as 4-H member Andy
Johnson fires a round!









Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

Special Notice

All Leon County 4-H and FFA Members wishing to show lamb or goat projects at the Major Spring 2008 Shows in Texas need to order tags by contacting the Texas Agrilife Extension Service at 903.536.2531 by August 25, 2008. Each tag will cost $10.00 and the tags will not be ordered until payment is recieved. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.




Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service

A Capitol Expierence!

From 1908 to 2008, the Texas 4-H program has asserted a century of excellence that can be traced from the cattle pastures of Leon County to the State Capitol itself. With a member population exceeding 600,000+ members, Texas 4-H represents interests ranging from agriculture and engineering to medicine and law. Thanks to the diligence of several 4-H members and the Texas AgriLife Extension Service, the Texas 4-H Centennial has now exploded into the Senate and House Chambers of the State Capitol in Austin, Texas. The exchange of political views and ideals during July 13 through July 16 are aimed at helping the best and brightest of Texas to understand and be a part of the legislative process which will shape their lives. Texas 4-H Congress is the premiere leadership experience for Texas 4-H members between the ages of 15 and 18. Held on the even numbers years in the Texas State Capitol, Texas 4-H Congress allows 4-H members to experience the law making process first hand by writing, submitting, and then serving as a member of the House of Representatives, the Senate, the Press, or as a Lobbyist. From these roles, the 4-H members determine the faith of each bill submitted over the four day event. Leon County 4-H members Christi Cockrell, Will Mahaffey, Justin Pistone, Reagan Robertson and Agent Tommy Neyland participated in this event and had a wonderful opportunity.

Pic Caption:
Leon County 4-H Members Christi Cockrell, Will Mahaffey, Justin Pistone, Reagan Robertson and Agent Tommy Neyland

Tommy Neyland, CEA-Ag
Texas Agrilife Extension Service