Among 4H Leaders are Laura Bridwell, Mark Ortiz, Keriann Ortiz, Joe Nenzel, Bill O’Brien, Gabrielle Balcunas and Michael Hansen.
The Douglas County Extension office and 4-H Youth Development Program celebrated a successful year of accomplishments on Nov. 15 at Carson Valley United Methodist Church.
Senior 4-H member Whitney Walters and Kiwanis Club of the Carson Valley President Mark Eriksen emceed the event.
The Kiwanis are a major contributor to 4-H and they award members with cash prizes for having the top record books for the year.
The record book helps 4-H members develop the valuable skill of record keeping by chronicling the growth, participation, and achievements throughout their 4-H career.
Eriksen was joined by Kiwanis members Sally Grant, Shawnyne Garren, and Peter Engle as they awarded a prize to all participating Cloverbuds (ages 5-8) and the following Record Book Winners:
Junior (ages 9-10): 3rd Place: Cameron Norberg, 2nd Place: Sierra Long, 1st Place (tie): Desmond Presley and Ari Klein
Intermediate (ages 11-13): 3rd Place: River Klein, 2nd Place: Kaylee Thompson, 1st Place: Kadence Ortiz
Senior (ages 14-19) 3rd Place: Talia Itzen, 2nd Place: Malia Burke 1st Place (tie): Mamre Maulis and Micaiah Maulis
“The many great volunteer leaders of Douglas County 4-H were also recognized with certificates, pins and swag bags for their dedicated work and commitment to the youth of Douglas County 4-H,” organizers said. “Our volunteers are the engine of the Youth Development Program and are vital to our success.”
Appreciation, certificates and/or plaques also went out to donors and supporters of Douglas County 4-H including: the Carson Valley United Methodist Church, the Kiwanis Club of Carson Valley, the Active 20/30 Club of Carson Valley, Tractor Supply Company, Carson Valley Swim Center, Carson Valley Arts Council, REI of Reno, Costco, Carson Valley Meats, Wild Harmony Ranch, Joe Benigno’s Tree Service, Carson Valley Cinemas, Shoetree Brewing Company, Dollar Tree, Eastern Sierra Feed, Fresh Ideas, Café Girasole, Kim Hunter Steed, Chocolate Shoppe, Starbucks, Thai Jasmine, and Sakura Poke Bowl.
“It was a fun night of celebration for all who attended that ended with fresh cupcakes and an engaging slideshow highlighting the 4-H youth of Douglas County,” Douglas County 4-H Youth Development Coordinator Patrick Flynn said in thanking participants and supporters.
The 4-H program has the mission of serving youth from all beliefs and background with opportunities that include, but extend well beyond, raising livestock and the education of agriculture. Douglas County 4-H currently offers projects in hiking, sewing, baking and shooting sports and is always looking to recruit new leaders to offer programming in other areas to meet the needs of the youth here in Douglas County.
For more information, or to get involved as a member or leader, contact Flynn at (775) 782-9960.
