Weber County 4-H Newsletter
January 2024
Dear 4-H Families,
I am excited to announce that Sharon Bee is now a Program Coordinator for Weber County 4-H! She has been a fantastic Staff Assistant for the past year and we are thrilled to have her now as an additional Coordinator. We are looking forward to providing even more help and support in the future. If you have any suggestions or ideas of how we can work together to improve the quality and quantity of 4-H here in Weber County please let us know. We are hoping to fill the vacancy of 4-H Staff Assistant as soon as possible.
New Years is the time, naturally, for reflecting on the past and looking forward to the future with a positive outlook. It can also be a time when we appreciate those who we hold dear in our heart, both family members and friends.
This past year we have had many successes with the 4-H program here in Weber County. For starters we have a team of outstanding youth who are going to the Western National Roundup Competition in January. Our Horse teams took 1st, 2nd and 3rd place at the Regional Horse Show. At the State Horse show we had many who took top honors in different categories. We served over 200 youth in our Summer Camp programs. We had 300 portfolios turned in to be judged. Our Ambassadors planning and organizing great events and clinics for everyone, including planning and putting together a great float for the Pioneer Day Parade. I could go on for a long time, but I wont. I am looking towards the future with optimism and expecting even greater things to come.
The connections that I have made this past year with our incredible youth and parents and leaders have greatly enriched my life. There have been times when I have been brought to tears seeing the outstanding service and dedication and love that has been shown in our program. I feel blessed to be surrounded by such greatness and count you as part of my chosen family.
My New Year’s wish is that we cherish each moment that is ours, and may we join together and celebrate the good and freely love one another.
Happy New Year Everyone!
David Widdison
Weber County 4-H Program Coordinator
Happy New Year!
I am thrilled at the prospect of serving as one of the Weber County 4-H Program Coordinators, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunities that the upcoming year holds. A heartfelt thank you to all those I've collaborated with in various capacities, including as a Staff Assistant, 4-H Leader, Livestock Ambassador Leader, and more. In transitioning to the role of Program Coordinator, my aim is to not only sustain existing working relationships but also cultivate new ones. The success of our program hinges on the dedication of our leaders and volunteers, and I am fortunate to be part of a community that boasts some of the best.
The exceptional qualities of our youth are truly noteworthy. Over the past seven years of involvement with Weber County 4-H, I have witnessed remarkable accomplishments by our young participants. Whether through clinics, workshops, service projects, or County and State fairs, the youth consistently demonstrate qualities such as kindness and inclusion, laying the foundation for lifelong success. I feel privileged to be surrounded by such positive examples and aspire to meet the expectations set by these outstanding individuals.
Looking ahead to the upcoming year, I am excited about the possibilities and achievements that our Weber County 4-H team can attain. I am open to collaboration and eager to contribute to the program's success. As we step into 2024, let us collectively seek ways to "make the best better." I look forward to working with each of you and being part of a transformative year in the Weber County 4-H program. Please do not hesitate to reach out if there is anything I can do to enhance your 4-H experience.
Sharon Bee
Weber County 4-H Program Coordinator
September 1st Begins the New 4-H Year
The 2023-2024 4-H year began on September 1st and ends August 31st. Sign up on ZSuite so you can be sure you don't miss any exciting 4-H events or news.
https://4h.zsuite.org/
Weber County 4-H T-shirt
Swing by the 4-H office to grab your 2023-2024 county T-shirt, on sale for $10 each.
State Portfolio Contest
The 4-H State Portfolio Contest will open from December 1st – February 15th, 2023. The 4-H Portfolio is the standard application tool for all 4-H leadership positions, a valuable resource as youth seek employment, and gathers the information needed to apply for scholarships. Competing in the State 4-H Portfolio Contest will give youth a competitive advantage as they apply for opportunities throughout the year. High school seniors will automatically be entered for the 4-H Career Honor Award!
What: 4-H Portfolio State Contest ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Who: 4-H members – All ages welcome
Where: Zsuite
When: December 1, 2023 – February 15, 2024
4-H Portfolio Page: https://extension.usu.edu/utah4h/more/4-h-portfolios
Cost: Free!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
State 4-H Portfolio Contest Cover Letter Objectives:
The 2023-2024 4-H Portfolio State Contest cover letter is centered on the culminating outcomes that youth may gain from their 4-H experience. The cover letter objectives are aligned to the top emerging issues in each age group. Points will be awarded for complete answers – not for the best description of a positive 4-H experience. This year we are formatting the cover letter objectives differently for this portfolio contest.
Contestants have the option of answering each objective based on a) their actual 4-H experience or b) how to improve the 4-H program. Full points will be awarded for complete responses to either option. Here are the objectives for each age group: Juniors, Intermediates, Seniors
2024 Teen Winter Retreat
Join teens grades 9-12 from across the state at Teen Winter Retreat held in January. Youth participate in workshops about building healthy relationships. Youth enjoy the outdoor winter activities as well such at ropes course and cross county skiing or snow shoeing. Spots are limited and will fill up fast. Get yourself registered today so you don’t miss out on Teen Winter Retreat. Come join the fun!
Curriculum: The 5 Love Languages
Theme: Happily Ever After
Dates: January 19-20 - Friday 4 pm to Saturday 4:30 pm
Cost: $120 per person
For: Youth 9th-12th grade
Registration Open November 1 to January 4 or until filled (1/2 the spots are filled)
Location: Aspen Grove – Provo Canyon: 9521 Alpine Loop Scenic Byway Provo UT 84604
For more information and required waiver form, see website: https://extension.usu.edu/utah4h/events/teen-winter-retreat
4-H Shooting Sports
The Weber County Gunners Club will begin in March, focusing on .22 rifle education. There is a Beginner and Advanced club for all levels of shooting experience (Advanced members must have completed the Beginner club). Register on ZSuite. Space is limited.
2024 National 4-H Western Heritage Conference & Invitational Shoot
Mark your calendars...more information to come
4-H Shooting Sports Information and Resources: https://extension.usu.edu/utah4h/programs/shooting-sports
4H/FFA/Jr. MANRRS Youth Leadership Program
American Farm Bureau Federation has a unique opportunity for 4-H, FFA and Jr. MANRRS members! This January AFBF will host its 105th Annual Convention and Trade Show at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah and will offer a special program for members of our partnering youth agricultural organizations on Sunday, January 21st. This is a great opportunity for students to connect with farmers and ranchers from all across the United States, receive leadership training and learn about various parts of the agriculture industry!
Please note this special program for 4-H, FFA & Jr. MANRRS members will only take place on Sunday, January 21st. The attached flier has all of the details.
MyPI
Interested in becoming certified in emergency response? Check out MyPI and learn how you can help your community. More information to come regarding the MyPI program for youth. Please call the 4-H office at 801-399-8202 with any questions.
FCS Contests
Register on ZSuite for this year's FCS Contests. Invite your fellow club members and a friends!
The state contest rules can be found here: https://extension.usu.edu/utah4h/events/state-contests/4h-classic/index
STEM
Check out Weber 4-H STEM at the library
Monthly STEM Challenges
Weber County is offering STEM month challenges to all Weber County youth. Check out our website at https://extension.usu.edu/weber/4h/stemand learn what the current monthly challenge is. Once you have completed your challenge, bring it in to the 4-H office for a prize!
Community Clubs
Check out some of the clubs you can register for starting September 1st.
4-H Horse News
Interested in joining a horse club? Contact one of the leaders to learn more.
Weber County 2023-2024 4-H Horse Clubs
Club | Club Leader | Phone | Meeting Day & Time | Meeting Location | |
Ghost Riders | Connie Neal | 801-866-9791 | cn4horse@peoplepc.com | Tue at 7pm (May-Aug) | West Haven Arena |
Guns & Roses | McKenzie Clem | 801-821-6017 | mkclem@msn.com | Tue at 6:30pm (Feb-Oct) | Reese Riding Arena |
Judy Barrow | 801-540-0125 | jabarr63@yahoo.com | |||
Hoofprints | Lance Quinn | 801-389-4898 | 4hlance@gmail.com | Wed at 6pm | Eden Arena |
Aurora Quinn | 801-931-1541 | hollieforever@gmail.com | |||
Maverix | Kari Byington | 801-750-0999 | karibyington@aol.com |
Wed and Thurs at 4:30pm |
Hooper Arena |
Kim Byington | 801-888-8985 | kimlbyington@aol.com | |||
Purple Sage | Erin Fish | 801-920-1973 | erinlfish@gmail.com |
Wed at 5pm
|
Plain City Arena |
Brandon Wilson | 385-235-0800 | brandon@dserio.com | |||
Smart Ponies (Horse Study) |
Connie Neal | 801-866-9791 | cn4horse@peoplepc.com |
Mon at 7pm (year round) |
4-H Office |
Horse Quiz Bowl Contests
Hippology Contests
Hippology is an activity that can enhance learning for 4-H members by letting them exhibit their knowledge and understanding of equine science and husbandry in a competitive setting. No horse ownership is required.
State 4-H Horse English Camp
The State 4-H Horse English Camp will be June 3-5, 2024 at the Cache County Fairgrounds. This awesome 3 day camp includes horse boarding, 2 instructions a day, meals and tons of fun! More info to come. Call or text Stacey Hess at 435-881-7986
Upcoming Horse Council Meetings
January 9th at 6:30pm at the 4-H office
Poultry Club
Interested in starting your own chicken coop or want to learn more about your flock? Join the Weber County 4-H Poultry Club. Sign up on ZSuite and come learn all about chickens.
4-H Livestock News
Interested in joining a livestock club? Contact one of the club leaders to learn more.
Club Name | Club Leader | Phone Number | Project Area |
5 Starr | Mandy Starr | 541-852-2017 | Rabbits/Lambs |
Better Bacon Bureau | Joe Giordano | 801-695-6372 | Beef, Swine, Lambs, Goats |
Champion Maker | Heather Marriott | 801-644-9285 | Beef, Swine, Goats |
Jaques Herd | Jamie Jaques | 801-728-3233 | Swine, Lambs |
Just E Nuff Boers | Lyndi Lowe | 801-643-6950 | Beef, Swine, Lambs, Goats |
Keepin' It Country | Amy Marriott | 801-940-2594 | Beef, Swine, Lambs, Goats |
Raising Champions | RJ Spencer | 385-266-0168 | Beef, Swine, Lambs, Goats |
Rafter B Livestock | Cassie Joiner Kari Breeding |
801-528-2984 801-710-6296 |
Beef, Swine, Lambs, Goats |
Rocky Mountain Regulators | Amanda Hachmeister | 801-603-8090 | Beef, Swine, Lambs, Goats |
Rustic Farm | Ashley Bennett | 801-814-3843 | Swine |
Team John Deere | Jeff McNair Keeley McNair |
801-745-7103 801-645-0154 |
Lambs |
The Baa Bunch | Danielle Baxter | 801-781-0749 | Lambs |
The Dukes of Weber County | Chancey Pregler | 801-866-4245 | Beef, Swine, Lambs, Goats |
Wild Things | Tami Wilson Sharon Bee |
801-643-1021 801-866-7251 |
Beef, Swine, Lambs, Goats |
Winner's Circle | Holden Steed | 801-781-0330 | Beef, Swine, Lambs, Goats |
West Weber Wether's | Brian Opheikens Stephanie Opheikens |
801-920-3543 | Goats |
Woolly Wagglers | Aaron Gold Kara Gold |
801-663-1361 801-791-9527 |
Lambs, Goats |
Weber County 4-H Livestock Exhibitors must participate in 2 approved educational events prior to August 1st to qualify for the Weber County Jr Livestock Show.
These events must be official 4-H approved to receive credit. Each approved event will have a QR Code to scan.
If your club would like to hold an official event, it must be approved through the 4-H office BEFORE the event.
Completing a Livestock Rank Advancement will count as one credit - Livestock Rank Advancements can be found here:chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://extension.usu.edu/utah4h/files/livestock-rank-advancments.pdf
4-H Livestock Council Meetings
The next Livestock Council meeting will be on January 4th at 6:00pm at the 4-H office.
All Livestock Club Leaders are encouraged to attend or send a parent on behalf of their club, and all Livestock Club Members are welcome to attend.
Upcoming Livestock Clinics
Jr. Livestock Education Tests
Jr. Livestock Education Tests
From October through July, Weber County 4-H members in grades 3-12 can compete in the Livestock Education Tests. To participate, youth must be enrolled in 4-H (and enrollment fees paid). 4-H members can take the test online in ZSuite:https://4h.zsuite.org/. (Click on “Events” to find the current months test).
Awards are given for each species in each division.
Each month's tests are prepared for all four species: beef, sheep, swine, and goats.
Each month will focus on a different chapter or two of the handbooks.
Youth can select the test for the species they are studying. They do not have to be raising that species to participate in the test. You can compete in all 4 project areas.
The tests are a combination of true/false, multiple choice, and fill-in-the-blank.
All the questions for the test come from the Ohio State University Resource manuals, which are available for purchase from the 4-H office. The cost per book is about $30 depending on the species.
This is an open book test with a time limit of 30 minutes to complete each test. Tests will close the last day of each month.
Congratulations to the following youth who excelled in the December 2023 livestock tests:
Junior | Intermediate | Senior | |
Beef | Hesston Hansen, Annica Fuller (tie) | Brilee Skeem, Baylor Hansen, Bridger Fuller (tie) | Liah Hirokawa |
Goat | Hesston Hansen, Kaylee Casperson (tie) | Baylor Hansen | Liah Hirokawa |
Sheep | Grayson Skeem | Brilee Skeem | - |
Swine | Hesston Hansen | Baylor Hansen | - |
Weber Jr. Livestock
Please refer to https://weberjrlivestock.org/for the Premuim Book and Superintendent contact information.
How to Manage Your Mind
Come explore how your mind works and learn tips and tricks to increase your confidence, self-image, and better reach your goals. Whether you’re playing a sport, performing music, giving a presentation, or facing every-day challenges, this workshop will help you live your best life.
Become a Volunteer
Are you interested in becoming a 4-H club leader?
4-H leaders support youth as they learn by doing by providing guidance and opportunities for meaningful leadership roles in their 4-H club and community.
What are the responsibilities of 4-H leaders?
Develop a caring relationship with members.Create a safe environment for 4-H members.
Provide opportunities for youth to build skills.
Create opportunities for youth to value and practice service to others.
Allow youth to make decisions and lead.
Create an inclusive environment.
Keep up-to-date and trained.
What qualifications/skills do 4-H leaders need?
Sincere interest in the safety and well-being of youth.Desire to facilitate and motivate youth while nurturing self-esteem, decision-making skills, responsibility, and leadership.
Successfully pass the volunteer training process.
Ability to organize information and materials and delegate responsibility.
Ability to work and communicate effectively both verbally and written.
Desire to motivate parents and other volunteers.
Interest in working in partnership with youth, other volunteers and professional staff in an educational setting.
Willingness to adopt the philosophy, policies, and procedures of your 4-H organization.
You don’t have to be an expert in a project topic to be a leader! By following the project resources, learning along with your members and involving others, there is no limit to the variety of 4-H clubs or projects you can run!
Check out the Weber County 4-H Calendar here:https://extension.usu.edu/weber/4h/
Weber County 4-H
1181 N Fairgrounds Drive, Ogden, UT 84404
(801) 399-8202
https://extension.usu.edu/weber/4h/
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