Latest Updates from Statewide 4-H

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Jacqueline Simonson is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 1. Jacqueline volunteers with the Sheridan County 4-H program and was nominated by Melissa Mracek, Nebraska Extension Educator in the North Panhandle. 

"Jackie is always looking for new ways to help involve youth in new programs or create different sparks," said Mracek.

As a club leader, Jacqueline strives to incorporate youth voice into the club's activities. She empowers older members to take on leadership roles and encourages all members to work collaboratively. Jacqueline supports youth across Sheridan County by serving on the 4-H Council and engaging in fundraising activities. Last year, she raised $1,200 for the local 4-H robotics program.

"Jackie’s mindset will not only help youth members gain new interests but also will help them learn to become active members within their community and want to give back," said Mracek. 

Tell us about yourself.

I'm 37, married for 14 years, and have 3 wonderful kids. Lindsey who is 14, MacKenzie is 11 and Cade is 6

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

Helping the kids realize how amazing they are, and helping them find new talents and interests

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

Watching my kids and their friends show animals and enjoy fair week!

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

By helping them when they want to try new things! I love learning with them!

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Lindsey Mendenhall is receiving the Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award. Lindsey is a member and volunteer with the Chase County 4-H program and was nominated by Debbie Kuenning, Nebraska Extension Educator in Perkin and Chase counties. 

Early in her 4-H career, Lindsey found her spark in the 4-H dog project. She never imagined that before her 4-H years were over, she would lead the local dog program. 

"Lindsey has continuously gone above and beyond not only to work on the project she loves herself, but to learn as much as she can and teach it to anyone who is interested," Kuenning wrote. "I admire her determination and work ethic and am extremely proud of the job she has done with our Dog Club!"

The Chase County 4-H Dog Club had struggled to maintain consistent leadership before Lindsey stepped up. It started when she asked the 4-H Council for funds to purchase and build dog agility equipment. Before she knew it, she was teaching other members, helping them train their dogs on courses and equipment she had built, scheduling meetings, and communicating with families. Lindsey grew into the leadership role with grace and maturity. 

With Lindey as the leader, the local 4-H Dog Club now thrives with over 20 active members. Lindsey has expanded local opportunities for 4-H members by helping establish rally and agility classes at the County Fair. She even lends her own dogs to Clover Kid members so they may participate in the Clover Kid Dog Show. Last year, Lindsey inspired and encouraged two fellow members to participate in the State 4-H Dog Show for the first time. 

Tell us about yourself.

I am a sophomore at Wichita State University majoring in biomedical engineering, but when I am home, you usually can find me hanging out with my friends or dogs. During my time in 4-H, I have come to love building bonds through training with my dogs, Buster, Nala, and Rex. I have been active in 4-H since before I could even join; I have shown dogs, cattle, and horses, baked, sewed, built rockets and birdhouses, attempted photography, and enhanced my shooting sports skills.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

When I joined the dog club at the age of 7 with my 4-month-old Golden Retriever puppy, Buster, I never would have thought I would be where I am today! When the main leader who was dedicated to getting Buster and I from the crazy puppy stage to graduate novice moved away, I knew I wanted to step up and lead in the junior leader role. I served as the junior leader for 5 years, and when none of the past leaders were returning last year, I stepped up to the leader. I delight in getting to help younger 4-Hers form bonds with their dogs through 4-H training! My favorite aspect of training dogs is the agility class. In the agility class, youth and their dogs get to apply the basic skills of obedience to a fun and fast-paced course consisting of jumps, tunnels, catwalks, and even teeter-totters. I don’t know who enjoys the course more, the kids or the dogs, but seeing the kids connect with their dogs to improve their time is always rewarding!

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

My favorite memory is when I first introduced the rally and agility classes to our county. When I started dog, our county only had obedience and showmanship classes, and since attending workshops and shows and becoming familiar with rally and agility myself, I wanted to bring it into our county. I pitched the idea to the 4-H Council, and the materials I would need, and they approved. I made and purchased a starting set of agility obstacles and rally sign holders, and created a game plan for how I was going to teach these skills to the others including the leaders. The first year, I started small with a few of the basic rally signs and only 5 obstacles, and I slowly worked my way up to where we are now with all of the 4-H rally signs and over 10 obstacles.

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

When their older brother joined dog with their dog, Zip, 2 little clover kids, Sadie and Josie, were disappointed they didn’t get to participate. I offered for them to practice with Buster and Nala during practice, which was a win-win because they were happy that they got to participate and I had my hands free to help others directly. Sadie and Josie loved getting to be like the older kids, and Buster and Nala loved the attention and constant praise! Along with the other clover kids, Sadie and Josie are eager to join 4-H so they can compete in all the classes!

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners.

Steve Dirgo is receiving the Emerging Volunteer Award for Zone 4. Steve volunteers with the Gosper County 4-H program and was nominated by Calvin DeVries, Nebraska Extension Educator in Phelps and Gosper counties. 

The Hot Shots 4-H Club in Gosper County had been inactive for three years when Steve volunteered as a club leader. He started by focusing on the BB gun project and quickly had 20 youth enrolled. With the high demand, Steve now leads two weekly practice sessions - one in the morning and a second in the afternoon each Saturday. Steve emphasizes proper carrying techniques, safety measures, and teamwork during practice. 

"Steve’s passion for the shooting sports project glows through his teaching efforts during club practices. When we think of positive youth development, Steve comes to the top as one of the most impactful volunteers and leader in Gosper County. 4-H is a top priority for Steve and his passion for creating this opportunity for youth is truly amazing," said DeVries. 

Tell us about yourself.

I am happily married, I have two boys ages 9 and 6. This is my first year in 4H, I have truly enjoyed what I have learned so far. My passion is firearms and firearm safety, teaching children about firearms and firearm safety at this young age is very important. We can shall teach them the basic of how to handle a firearm in safe manner. I am very involved in our community, part of the Booster Club for school, I am a full time College student at CCC in Kearney Neb, I work at BD in Holdrege as a Quality Tech / Trainer. The support I receive from my family is endless, and I couldn't do it without them.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

Watching the youth grow into outstanding human being. With the knowledge of handling a firearm safely. Weather that is for hunting, or shooting for fun.

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

Watching the kids take what lesson we just learned in the classroom and take that knowledge and put it to use on the range.

In observance of the Week of the Volunteer, Nebraska 4-H is proud to celebrate some of the 2023 Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Award Winners. 

John Brodersen is receiving the Emerging Adult Volunteer Award for Zone 5. John volunteers with the Cedar County 4-H program and was nominated by Megan Hanefeldt, Nebraska Extension Educator in Knox and Cedar counties. 

"John is one of those volunteers who offers to help and wants only the best for all the 4-H members," wrote Hanefedlt. 

John is a certified archery instructor. Three years ago, he established the local archery program with 30 members! John also serves as the Cedar County sheep and swine assistant superintendent. During fair time, he spends countless hours at the fairgrounds, helping wherever needed.

"The way that John takes his time to educate and inform each participant makes him an outstanding leader. We are very grateful for all the time and effort John puts in to the 4-H program!" wrote Hanefeldt.

Tell us about yourself.

I live on a farm east of Hartington with my wife Tammie and children Kate, Grace, and Ethan. Agronomist for Helena Agri in Osmond, NE. In my spare time, I raise sheep and hunt with family and friends.

What do you look forward to when you step into your volunteer role?

Getting to help the kids discover the same love for archery and the outdoors that I do. I can’t describe the pride I feel when it clicks for a kid, and they are just as excited to be there as I am.

What is your favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer?

Every kid’s first arrow in the bullseye. The flood of pride that they feel and you get to see on their face is amazing.

How have you helped youth find their spark through 4-H?

I feel we provide something for the kids that isn’t basketball, football, or volleyball. It’s a sport that everyone can excel at with enough time, no matter how tall, strong, or fast they are. I think just giving those young men and women a place where they can achieve personal growth is huge in their development.

Nebraska 4-H members from across the state will showcase their designs during the 15th annual Omaha Fashion Week runway showcase.

The 4-H showcase will take place on Feb. 22 at 8 p.m. at the Omaha Design Center, 1502 Cuming St., Omaha. Nineteen youth from 11 counties will model garments they sewed as 4-H projects in 2022. Participating youth are:

• Abigail Nelson, Gordon (Sheridan County 4-H)
• Alexa Smith, Lincoln (Lancaster County 4-H)
• Alison Schimmer, Grand Island (Hall County 4-H)
• Ava Caldwell, Omaha (Douglas/Sarpy Counties 4-H)
• Chloe Jeffers, Wauneta (Hayes County 4-H)
• Clara Johnson, Walton (Lancaster County 4-H)
• Danica Romshek, Bellwood (Butler County 4-H)
• Dayton Jons, Lincoln (Lancaster County 4-H)
• Emily Barfknecht, Juniata (Adams County 4-H)
• Emily Nelson, Gordon (Sheridan County 4-H)
• Karla Herrarte, Lexington (Dawson County 4-H)
• Kate Cox, Valentine (Cherry County 4-H)
• Kylie Hansen, Lincoln (Lancaster County 4-H)
• Lora Sonderup, Fullerton (Nance County 4-H)
• Maura Tichota, Yutan (Saunders County 4-H)
• Maya Soria, Kearney (Dawson County 4-H)
• Saidi Ringenberg, Lexington (Dawson County 4-H)
• Sydni Ringenberg, Lexington (Dawson County 4-H)
• Vanessa Peterson, Lincoln (Lancaster County 4-H )

The Midwest’s largest fashion event, Omaha Fashion Week, takes place twice a year, in February and August, and showcases young and emerging designers from throughout the region. For more information on Omaha Fashion Week, visit Omahafashionweek.com. Tickets for the 4-H showcase are available online at: https://omahafashionweek.ticketleap.com/ofw-spring-2023-metro-community-college-student-night/.

Two delegates and two alternates have been selected to represent Nebraska at the 2023 National 4-H Conference. The delegates, who are receiving partial scholarships to attend National 4-H Congress, include:

• Lexi Johnson, Dawson County
• Autumn Lindsley, Butler County

The alternates, who may attend National 4-H Conference at their own expense, include:

• Sarah Treffer, Dawson County
• Miya Carey, Holt County

National 4-H Conference is the premier national civic engagement opportunity for 4-H members across the country. Delegates not only learn while at the conference but also have the opportunity to practice and apply in a real-world setting their newly developed and refined skills. The National 4-H Conference is held annually in the Washington D.C. area. For more information about National 4-H Conference, please visit 4h.unl.edu/conference.

Fifteen delegates and five alternates have been selected to represent Nebraska at the 2023 National 4-H Congress. The delegates, who are receiving partial scholarships to attend National 4-H Congress, include:

• Miya Carey, Holt County
• Taylor Kramer, Dawson County
• Austin Kamm, Cuming County
• Emily Miller, Cheyenne County
• Alexa Tollman, Dawes County
• Claire Gangwish, Buffalo County
• Libby Mackin, Webster County
• Lauren Dick, Thayer County
• Andrew Kreuscher, Dawson County
• Morgan Schommers, Dawes County
• Kaylee Powell, Merrick & Hall Counties
• Hunter Blume, Red Willow County
• Autumn Lindsley, Butler County
• Micah Pracheil, Lancaster County
• Sara Thomsen, Pierce County

The alternates, who may attend National 4-H Congress at their own expense, include:

• Cadde Beeby, Red Willow County
• Rylie Carter, Butler County
• Emily Brhel, Clay County
• Jaden Hunke, Dawson County
• Mahayla Allred, Dawes County
• Emily Barfknecht, Adams County

National 4-H Congress is the premier leadership event for 4-H members ages 15 to 19. The event brings together youth from across the country and provides educational and cross-cultural experiences. The goal is to inspire youth to take on leadership roles and make meaningful impacts within their communities. The event is held each fall in Atlanta, Georgia. For more information about National 4-H Congress, please visit 4h.unl.edu/congress.

Nebraska 4-H recently recognized Kamryn Wanser, Kennedy Powell, and Brooklynn Nelsen with a Nebraska 4-H Gives Back Award. After seeing their peers struggle with food insecurity, the three Lancaster County 4-H members began working on plans to establish a new Little Free Pantry in their community.

“We are so proud of this team of 4-H’ers who saw a local problem and creatively found a way to a solution,” said Dr. Kathleen Lodl, Nebraska State 4-H Program Administrator. “It’s this kind of leadership and passion that is critical to their future and the future of Nebraska.”

Together, the youth recruited a local business, Healthy Heads, to house the public pantry and worked with a craftsman to design and build the pantry box. They gathered food donations and support from a local HOA, White Electric, Old Glory Farms Boutique, Rotary Club 14, VFW, FoodNet, Little Free Pantries, Lancaster County 4-H Council, and The Fantastic 4 4-H Club. The youth collected $319 and over 1,700 food items to establish their Little Free Pantry.

“We believe the pantry will serve the neighbors, those that work in the area as well as our customers,” wrote Healthy Heads staff. “We couldn’t be happier to support this great cause.”

“Food insecurity is an issue many Lincoln, Nebraska residents experience,” said Tracy Anderson, Lancaster County 4-H Extension Educator. “Thanks to the hard work and dedication of Kamryn, Kennedy, and Brooklynn, there is one Lincoln neighborhood that is experiencing less of it.”

Over the first 28 weeks, a weekly average of 46 items were taken from the pantry located in the Indian Village neighborhood. Community members continue to take more items continue each week, and the teens continue to collect donations to keep the pantry stocked for those in need.

"We have learned that working together we can solve a problem in our community," the teens shared. "We feel confident that this will serve a need in the community for a long time to come.”

The Nebraska 4-H Gives Back Award celebrates the spirit of service learning. The program recognizes youth who have made significant and lasting impacts in their community. 4-H members create, coordinate, and implement a service-learning project of lasting impact and significant size or scope.

“We invite youth to submit project proposals that showcase the application of their time and talents in service to their community,” says Dr. Jill Lingard, Nebraska 4-H Gives Back program coordinator.

For more information about the Nebraska 4-H Gives Back Awards program, please visit 4h.unl.edu/ne4h-gives-back.

Nebraska 4-H has appointed four members as 2023 4-H Youth Leadership Conference Ambassadors, including:

• Joshua Eisenmann, Colfax County
• Autumn Lindsley, Butler County
• Hannah Beel, Brown County
• Isabella Benne, Burt County

Youth Leadership Conference Ambassadors serve as the planning committee for the 4-H Youth Leadership Conference. Ambassadors meet monthly to plan and prepare for the conference while developing their leadership skills. By serving as an Ambassador, members will have the opportunity to build connections with one another, learn from adult mentors, and gain real-world leadership experience on a statewide level. To learn more about the leadership program or the 2023 Ambassadors, visit 4h.unl.edu/leadership-conference-ambassadors. 

The Nebraska 4-H Youth Leadership Conference is an opportunity for all youth ages 14-18 to build connections with peers across the state, learn from adult mentors, and develop and practice leadership skills. Youth do not need to be enrolled in 4-H to attend the conference. The date and location for the 2023 Conference are yet to be determined. Please stay tuned to 4h.unl.edu/leadership-conference for updates. 

Nebraska 4-H, in collaboration with the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Department of Animal Science, offered the fifth year of the Nebraska 4-H Fed Steer Challenge in 2022.

The Fed Steer Challenge cultivates the next generation of leaders in the Nebraska cattle industry by providing youth with real-world opportunities in the beef sector. This challenge enhances the educational value of traditional 4-H beef projects and provides affordable options to reward production merit and market animal carcass value; accurate and complete record-keeping practices; industry and research knowledge; and producer engagement with the 4-H member.

The youth selected, purchased, exhibited, harvested, and analyzed carcass data on a steer while networking with industry professionals. Additionally, working as a learning cohort, they participated in monthly educational opportunities led by industry professionals and Animal Science faculty.

Alongside these youth, large crowds at the Nebraska State Fair receive expert instruction from a commercial cattle buyer about sorting and evaluating steers. This exemplifies real-world industry standards of carcass merit, grade ability, and finish. Unanimously, the youth participants agree the Fed Steer Challenge helped them gain valuable knowledge regarding the beef industry - namely, how to feed a market animal more efficiently. Because of their program involvement, participants plan to stay in the cattle industry to become future beef industry advocates.

The 2022 Nebraska participants and award winners included:

• Claire Ahrens, Sherman County – Third Place Overall, Third Place Growth Performance, Third Place Record Book
• Leah Christen, Pawnee County
• Abigail Gorecki, Buffalo County
• Nathan Gorecki, Buffalo County
• Eldon Haack, Franklin County – Second Place Carcass Merit
• Jaleigh Hallsted, Cuming County – Second Place Overall, First Place Record Book, Second Place Industry Interview
• Madison Hirschman, Howard County – Fourth Place Overall, Second Place Growth Performance, First Place Industry Interview
• Cassidy Maricle, Boone County
• Klaira Rasmussen, Howard County
• Nickolas Rohr, Frontier County
• Conner Snyder, Frontier County – First Place Overall, First Place Growth Performance, First Place Carcass Merit, Second Place Record Book, Third Place Industry Interview
• Treygan Srajhans, Fillmore County
• Noah Summers, Buffalo County – Third Place Carcass Merit
• Skyler Summers, Buffalo County – Fifth Place Overall, Second Place Industry Interview

The winners of each category receive cash prizes, and the overall winners will receive an additional $500 scholarship to the Nebraska College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.

Fed Steer Challenge

Nearly 200 4-H members from across the state participated in the 4-H Fashion Shows at the 2022 Nebraska State Fair. The contest, including three different shows held in Raising Nebraska, allowed 4-H members to model for a panel of judges and an estimated crowd of 700.

Saidi Ringenberg of Dawson County, Isabelle Barkoudah of Gage County, Clare Bauman of Lancaster County, Chloe Jeffers of Hayes County, and Zane Schneidereit of Blaine County received Best of Show awards for their constructed garments. Their projects were also exhibited in the 4-H Design Gallery in the 4-H & FFA Exhibition Building during the Fair. Winners received cash awards from sponsors, including Andrea Nisley, Extension Educator, and Sarah Purcell, Emeritus Extension Educator.

Saidi Ringenberg of Dawson County received the Make It With Wool Award presented by Andrea Nisley, Make it with Wool Nebraska State Director, given in memory of Alice Doane, past Nebraska State Director.

Ellie Pagel of Adams County and Emily Kircher of Red Willow County were inaugural recipients of the Shopping in Style Best of Show Awards. Youth received cash prizes sponsored by Megan Burda of Brick Road Boutique.

4-H Fashion Show Photos

Youth from across Nebraska put their agronomy knowledge to the test at the annual Nebraska Youth Crop Scouting Competition. The contest, held on August 3, 2022, at the Eastern Nebraska Research and Extension Center, allowed youth to work as teams and gain hands-on experience scouting actual plots. 

Receiving first place and a cash prize of $500 was Kornhusker Kids team coached by Chris Schiller. Team members were James Rolf, Logan Consbruck, Isaac Wooldrik, Levi Schiller and Ian Schiller. Second place went to Colfax Co. 4-H Team #1 coached by Steve Nelson. Team members were Josh Eisennman, Mic Sayers, Rylan Nelson, & Hayden Bailey and they received $250. Third place with a $100 cash award was Colfax County 4-H #2 team also coached by Steve Nelson. Team members were Callen Jedlicka, Cody Jedlicka, Daphne Jedlicka and Justin Eisennman.

Also participating were two teams from Johnson County 4-H coached by Jon Schmid. Team members from Johnson County #1 included Wesley Schmid, Sophia Schmid, Bo McCoy, and Elliot Werner. Johnson Co. #2 team consisted of Levi Othmer and Cameron Werner. Arlington FFA also competed with Kali Agler as the coach and Aaron Fuchs, Braden Monke and Ethan Hilgenkamp competing.

An in-person regional competition will be held among Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota and Missouri teams at the Beck Agricultural Center near West Lafayette, Indiana on September 15 hosted by Purdue Extension. Participants from Kornhusker Kids 4-H and Colfax County #1 are able to compete representing the state of Nebraska.

For more information on the Youth Crop Scouting Competition, contact Brandy VanDeWalle at brandy.vandewalle@unl.edu or visit cropwatch.unl.edu/youth.

Nebraska 4-H awarded fifty-two youth with the Members of Excellence distinction at the 2022 Nebraska State Fair. 4-H members earned the award for engaging in livestock-related learning experiences throughout the year in addition to caring for and exhibiting their 4-H livestock projects. Nebraska 4-H recognized Members of Excellence across all 4-H livestock project areas.

4-H members recognized as Members of Excellence in the beef project area included:

• Kaisha Alber, Webster County
• Cooper Elsen, Buffalo County
• Troy Linquist, Douglas/Sarpy County
• Ava Myers, Hamilton County
• Brayden Griess, Clay County
• AJ Pospichal, Holt County
• Mattie Brown, Scotts Bluff County
• Nathan Griess, Clay County
• Lilee Chevalier, Lancaster County
• Bryn Boitnott, Otoe County
• Ava Stewart, Cedar County
• Logan Schmidt, Thayer County
• Bo Pospichal, Holt County
• Maysa Jones, Custer County 
• Tatum Wright, Douglas/Sarpy County
• Tristian Wright, Douglas/Sarpy County
• Mahaya Jones, Custer County 
• Olivia Beel, Brown County 
• Trapper Wilcox, Antelope County 

Members of Excellence in the dairy project areas include:

• Kaitlyn Hanson, Saunders County
• Lilee Chevalier, Lancaster County

Youth who received the Member of Excellence distinction in the meat goat project area included:

• Randy Koke, Douglas/Sarpy County
• Arabella Rolfsmeyer, Buffalo County 
• Autumn Hoppe, Holt County
• Maysa Jones, Custer County
• JayLynn Hoppe, Holt County
• Brooke Carey, Holt County
• Miya Carey, Holt County
• Tatum Wright, Douglas/Sarpy County 
• Tristian Wright, Douglas/Sarpy County 
• Mahaya Jones, Custer County 

Youth recognized as Members of Excellence in the poultry project area included: /p>

• Franklin Polacek, Madison County
• Charles Cawley, Cass County
• Marcus Schultz, Madison County
• Katelyn Turek, Hall County
• Aiden Powers, Saunders
• Anne Nygren, Saunders County
• Mallory Beethe, Douglas/Sarpy County

Members of Excellence in the rabbit project area included:

• Grand Meister, Douglas/Sarpy County
• Tenley Bauman, Lancaster County
• Elisa Oberg, Frontier County
• Andrew Frain, Lancaster County

4-H members who received the Members of Excellence award in the sheep project area included:

• Grand Musil, Douglas/Sarpy County
• Addy Stanwick, Dixon County
• Cora Roth, Boyd County
• Lauren Brehm, Otoe County
• Katelyn Dorsey, Valley County
• Abigail Engelhardt, Webster County
• Trapper Wilcox, Antelope County 
• Arabella Rolfsmeyer, Buffalo County 

4-H members recognized as Members of Excellence in the swine project area included:

• Dierck White, Pierce County
• Kirsten Knake, Otoe County
• Kaden Knake, Otoe County
• Justus Kreifels, Otoe County
• Jolie Kreifels, Otoe County
• Hunter Creech, Scotts Bluff County
• Diego Velazco, Otoe County
• Olivia Beel, Brown County 
• Mollie Lambert, Cass County

Youth received the Member of Excellence distinction through the Livestock Achievement Program, which launched in 2021. Youth applied to participate in the program at the beginning of the year. Accepted participants set goals for their 4-H project experience and reported on their accomplishments. Participants were also required to complete quality assurance requirements and project record books. To learn more about the Livestock Achievement Program, visit 4h.unl.edu/livestock-achievement.

Twenty-two 4-H members will represent Nebraska at the 2022 4-H Shooting Sports National Championships held at the Heartland Public Shooting Park in Grand Island, Nebraska from June 26 to July 1. The event will bring together 4-H members from across the nation. Approximately 685 competitors from 39 states will convene in Grand Island to compete. The event features competitions across nine shooting sports disciplines including compound archery, recurve archery, air rifle, air pistol, .22 rifle, .22 pistol, shotgun, muzzleloading, and hunting skills. 

The Nebraska 4-H shotgun team, coached by John Lilly, includes: 

• Syras Boston, York County
• Sheyenne Morgan, Rock County
• Andrew Koehlmoos, Holt County
• Michael Day, Sarpy County

Members of the Nebraska 4-H air rifle team, coached by Darin Gruenke, include: 

• Keiziah Connell, Dixon County
  
• Rachael Thomas, Stanton County
  
• Dylan Glendy, Custer County

Youth on .22 rifle team, coached by Todd Knutson, include:

• Kurissa Mizner, Holt county
  
• Risken Dawson, Holt County
  
• Kyle Rote, Garden County
  
• Maya Knutson, Cedar County

The compound archery team, coached by Matt Carmin, consists of: 

• Taylor Rath, Douglas County
• Lilly Hanley, Lancaster County
  
• Bo Behlen, Platte County
  
• Sam Bissell, Buffalo County

The recurve archery team, coached by Jeff Goble, includes:

• Parker Walahoski, Dawson County
  
• Dylan Naslund, Cherry County
  
• Isaac Olsen, Banner County

Members of the muzzleloading team, coached by Mike Erickson, include: 

• Matt Koehlmoos, Holt County
  
• Kelsey Howard, Holt County
• Kylee Howard, Holt County
• Justin Warembourg, Hayes County

The 2022 4-H Shooting Sports National Championships are hosted by Nebraska 4-H and the National 4-H Shooting Sports Committee. For more information, visit 4h.unl.edu/shooting-sports/national. 

Fifteen delegates and five alternates have been selected to represent Nebraska at the 2022 National 4-H Congress. The delegates, who are receiving partial scholarships to attend National 4-H Congress, include:

• Jacie Wolfinger, Dawson County
• Matthew Bruns, Lincoln County
• Jaelin Wolfinger, Dawson County
• Carter Behnken, Washington County
• Lexi Johnson, Dawson County
• Paige Bunn, Dodge County
• Alexia Dick, Thayer County
• Ashley Abrahams, Dodge County
• Kylie Hansen, Lancaster County
• Madison Enstrom, Burt County
• Addison Luther, Dawson County
• Chelsea Potts, Cedar County
• Elizabeth Blume, Red Willow County
• Clare Bauman, Lancaster County

The alternates, who may attend National 4-H Congress at their own expense, include:

• Madison Hirshman, Howard County
• Adriana Hernandez, Washington County
• Aubree Siffring, Butler County
• Casey Wahlgren, Dawson County
• Jaden Russell, Adams County

National 4-H Congress is the premier leadership event for 4-H members ages 15 to 19. The event brings together youth from across the country and provides educational and cross-cultural experiences. The goal is to inspire youth to take on leadership roles and make meaningful impacts within their communities. The event is held each fall in Atlanta, Georgia. For more information about National 4-H Congress, please visit 4h.unl.edu/congress. 

Twenty-two adult volunteers, one 4-H member, and a family of volunteers are being recognized with Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Awards.

The Kristy and Dave Hattan Family from Lancaster County is receiving the Multi-Generation Family of Volunteers Award.  Additional family members include:

• Jill Hattan
• Tyler Hattan
• Tammy Wollen
• Brandy Brock

This award recognizes a family with at least three generations of active 4-H volunteers.

Marlie Mundt, 4-H member in Lancaster County is receiving the Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award. This award recognizes a 4-H member, ages 14-18, who has made a meaningful impact on their local 4-H community.

Eleven individuals are receiving Emerging Adult Volunteer Awards. These awards recognize current volunteers who have served less than three years in their local 4-H community. One individual is recognized for each Nebraska Extension Engagement Zone. Recipients include:

• Wendy Scheenan, Sheridan County 
• Krista Thoene, Garfield County
• Matt Weideman, Lincoln County
• Mary Ann Whitebear, Phelps County
• Mercedes Barg, Madison County
• Joy Harris, Nance County
• Cathy Hill-Klein, Platte County
• Hunter Purcell, Dodge County
• Sadie Hammond, Lancaster County
• Lisa Paul, Jefferson County
• Natasha Vavra, Cass County

Eleven individuals are receiving Outstanding Adult Volunteer Awards. These awards recognize current volunteers who have served more than four years in their local 4-H community. One individual is recognized for each Nebraska Extension Engagement Zone. Recipients include:

• Bill Riggs, Dawes County
• Jolene Dunbar, Loup County
• Dean Battie, Buffalo County
• Jo Teter, Red Willow County
• Doug McKibbon, Madison County
• Kathy Gorecki, Howard County
• Brigen Kinnison, Platte County
• Kim Jackson, Burt County
• Kath Conroy, Lancaster County
• Michael Scholz, Saline County
• Kim Cawley, Cass County

The Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Awards honor individuals who are making meaningful and lasting contributions to their local 4-H communities. 

"All across the state, Nebraska 4-H volunteers do incredible work to provide opportunities for our youth," says Jill Goedeken, 4-H Professional Development and Volunteer Extension Educator. "These volunteers generously give their time, energy, and creativity to help develop the next generation of leaders, and we are thrilled to be able to recognize their contributions." 

Recipients will be celebrated during a recognition ceremony at the 2022 Nebraska State Fair.

For more information about Nebraska 4-H Volunteer Awards, please visit 4h.unl.edu/volunteer-recognition. 

Five 4-H members from across the state represented Nebraska at the 89th National 4-H Conference, held March 19-24 in the Washington, D.C. area. Nebraska delegates included:

• Helen Keiser, Dawson County
• Abigail Owens, Dawson County
• Parker Walahoski, Dawson County
• Spencer Walahoski, Dawson County
• Paige Wood, Nance County

Held annually, the National 4-H Conference serves to develop the next generation of leaders. The conference provides an opportunity to engage 4-H youth in personal development experiences that will increase knowledge, resources, and skills. The program aims to empower and mobilize 4-H youth to create positive social change in the communities in a meaningful and genuine way. National 4-H Conference provides the opportunity for young people to connect, learn, engage, lead, and impact their communities, their nation, and their world.

Alongside youth delegates from across the nation, Nebraska delegates attended training workshops, became acquainted with the government, and met with state leaders. Highlights from the conference included meeting the Director of USDA's National Institute of Food & Agriculture, Dr. Carrie Castillo and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack. 

Delegates were accompanied by Tracy Anderson, Lancaster County 4-H Extension Educator, and Brett Kreifels, Douglas-Sarpy County 4-H Extension Educator.

National 4-H Conference is the premier civic engagement event for 4-H members between the ages of 15 and 19. Nebraska delegates are selected each year through state-level Senior Achievement Applications and a thorough interview process. Delegates also receive funding for trip expenses through the Nebraska 4-H Foundation. For more information about National 4-H Conference, please visit 4h.unl.edu/conference.

Allison Walbrecht, Lancaster County 4-H member, has been recognized with a Nebraska 4-H Gives Back Award for giving youth with disabilities the opportunity to show livestock at the county fair.

“Providing a “sense of belonging” is one important part of the 4-H program. Allison’s willingness to ensure that all youth have this opportunity showcases her willingness to give back to youth, the 4-H Program, and the future of Nebraska,” said Dr. Kathleen Lodl, Nebraska State 4-H Program Administrator. “Allison truly is an amazing role model.”

Having grown up on a beef cattle operation, Allison observed a gap between agriculture and people with disabilities. She started the Unified Showing program to bridge this gap. The program provides youth with disabilities the opportunity to show a lamb at the county fair. Showmen are paired with a "Buddy" who helps them practice and prepare for the showing throughout the summer. 

“Allison is making a positive difference,” said Tracy Anderson, Lancaster County 4-H Extension Educator. “She is giving young people with disabilities and their buddy a sense of belonging as they learn about and show livestock as members of her Unified Showing 4-H Club.”

Following success in Lancaster County, a new Unified Showing 4-H Club has already been established in Otoe County. Allison hopes to one day expand the program to the Nebraska State Fair.

"Unified Showing's future is very bright," said Allison. "I am excited to continue Unified Showing in the upcoming years."

The Nebraska 4-H Gives Back Award celebrates the spirit of service-learning. The program recognizes youth who have made significant and lasting impacts in their community. 4-H members create, coordinate, and implement a service-learning project of lasting impact and significant size or scope.

“Nebraska 4-H Gives Back is an awesome opportunity to celebrate the spirit of service-learning, a pillar of the 4-H experience. We invite youth to submit project proposals that showcase the application of their time and talents in service to their community,” shared Dr. Jill Lingard, Nebraska 4-H Gives Back program coordinator.

For more information about the Nebraska 4-H Gives back Awards program, please visit 4h.unl.edu/ne4h-gives-back.

John Sump, Lancaster County 4-H member, has been recognized with a Nebraska 4-H Gives Back Award for coordinating clean-up efforts at eight local NRD lakes. 

"John not only gave of his personal time and resources but also helped others see the importance of being a good steward of the land," said Dr. Kathleen Lodl, Nebraska State 4-H Program Administrator.

During the pandemic, John noticed an increased use of local NRD lakes. He also observed a corresponding increase in trash and litter around the recreation areas. With support from representatives at the Lower Platte South NRD and Nebraska Game and Parks SE District Fisheries, John coordinated trash pickups at all eight NRD lakes in Lancaster County. He recruited help from Catfish Crazy Nebraska, Nebraska Kayak Club, Boy Scouts Troop 22, family, and friends.

"I learned how to lead a big event, which involved the organization of several volunteers and the collection of donations," said John. 

While coordinating the lake clean-ups, John discovered that most local NRD lakes did not have fishing line recycling receptacles. After securing donations from local sponsors, John made and installed sixteen fishing line recycling tubes, two at each location. Follow-up visits revealed that the recycling tubes were being used at almost every location. 

“Through his homemade recycling tubes and lake clean-up at all lakes, he is helping provide a better space for all,” said Tracy Anderson, Lancaster County 4-H Extension Educator.

The Nebraska 4-H Gives Back Award celebrates the spirit of service learning. The program recognizes youth who have made significant and lasting impacts in their community. 4-H members create, coordinate, and implement a service-learning project of lasting impact and significant size or scope.

“We invite youth to submit project proposals that showcase the application of their time and talents in service to their community,” says Dr. Jill Lingard, Nebraska 4-H Gives Back program coordinator.

For more information about the Nebraska 4-H Gives Back Awards program, please visit 4h.unl.edu/ne4h-gives-back.

Hometown: Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Major: Textile Science

Expected Graduation: 2025

Why did you decide to join the +YD intern program?

As a third generation, Pennsylvania 4-H'er I had the opportunity to do many projects such as Poultry, Rabbits, fiber arts projects, sewing, gardening, woodworking, exchange club, and many other projects. I also had the priveledge of serving as a Pennsylvania 4-H State officer as well. 4-H blessed me with ten amazing years that planted me as a leader and prepared me for my future. I wanted to give back and help out with this program in any way I can, so naturally I was thrilled to be given the opportunity to apply and be a YD intern.

What is your favorite thing about the +YD internship?

I love being able to work on projects and work with my fellow interns. Collaborating and creating even better ideas that 4-H'ers are going to love is fun to see.

What are your plans post-graduation?

My plan after graduation is to hopefully work for a company creating and testing fabrics. Even more specifically, I would love to work developing more sustainable fabrics. I could also see myself potentially starting my own fabric line as well.

What's life like outside work and school?

Outside of work and school, I am probably back in Pennsylvania working in the garden, four wheeling, helping with the animals volunteering, volunteering with my County's fair or 4-H program, hiking, weaving, or hanging with friends and family. I especially love being outside with my two sisters and hunting with my dad. My sisters and I have grown in 4-H together which has made us especially close.

The +YD (Positive Youth Development) Interns develop and deliver educational programs for youth across the state in both in-person and online settings. +YD Interns are guided by Nebraska 4-H Youth Development professionals and participate in training and professional development to ensure a quality educational experience for youth participants. Educational programs delivered by interns focus upon topics related to STEM, leadership, career development, and entrepreneurship.