Folks who visit our office never ask if anything is going on—they ask what is going on! We always have something of interest planned for all ages. The 4-H program is off to a good start, and enrollment for the 2020/2021 year is now taking place. We have five clubs in the county. Enrollment is open to all youth grades three through 12. Contact our office for information on joining.
4-H Foods & Nutrition is one of the most popular projects in Hopkins County. Recently, our 4-H Foods Project kids were given kits in leu of a face-to-face workshop. Each participant received five kits to take home and complete at their own pace. Topics included:
• Set the Table/Read the Label
• Mix and Measure
• Gadgets and Gizmos
• Experimenting with Herbs and Spices
• Crockin’ Kids
All utensils and equipment were provided—even some spices and herbs. Through a grant, I was able to purchase a spiralizer (a gadget that can make noodles from spaghetti, apples, and other fruits and vegetables) for each participant. Master Wellness Volunteers assisted in preparing the kits. A survey and a check sheet for completed projects rounded out the project. From feedback received so far, the kits were a huge hit!
National 4-H Week, Oct. 4-10, is just around the corner. Hopkins County 4-H members, parents, leaders and supporters will celebrate with a kick-off at the Extension office Monday, Oct. 5. Judge Robert Newsom will be on hand to read the 4-H proclamation at 4:15 p.m., followed by refreshments and County 4-H Council and leaders/parents meeting. The new 4-H Food Show guidelines will be introduced via Zoom at 6:30 p.m. for interested 4-Hers and leaders.
Also taking place during national 4-H Week is the Project Show. This event gives 4-H members the opportunity to showcase their talents in photography, art, woodworking, crafts, handiwork and others. Items may be brought to the Extension office Monday-Friday, Oct. 5-8. Items will be judged Oct. 9 and on display to the public the week of Oct. 12. Be sure to drop by and view the exhibits!
Also kicking off in October is the annual Walk & Talk event. This is an eightweek series focusing on regular physical activity and increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables. Fresh Start to a Healthier You is another program that will be held online for viewing from the comfort of your own home. Contact my office at 903-885-3443 for more information on both of these.
Of course, the Hopkins County Fall Festival is a popular annual event. As coordinator of the Arts & Crafts Show and the Creative Arts Contest, I encourage you to take advantage of the festivities on Oct. 23 and 24. Other events will include a petting zoo, hay bale contest, parade and more.
Looking to November, the ever-popular Extension Christmas Joys holiday program will be held Monday, Nov. 9, at the ROC (please note the change in location.) A third session has been added to accommodate physical distancing. It is shaping up to be a great program—decorating, recipes, gift-giving ideas and more! Call 903-885-3443 to reserve a seat. We must have a name and phone number for each seat reserved.
So, what’s happening with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension? Now you know!
CLOSING THOUGHT
“When I was young, I used to admire intelligent people; as I grow older, I admire kind people.”—Abraham Heschel