Local 4-H celebrate 2022 with annual Achievement Day program

Phillips County 4-H members celebrated another successful year of 4-H on Oct. 2 at their annual 4-H Achievement Day Program. The event was held at the Haxtun Community Center where more than 30 4-H members and their families attended.

The program recognized the successes of the 4-H Livestock Judging Team, Colorado State Fair Exhibitors and State Shooting Sports Competitors. 4-H members Lucinda Mares and Brendan Nelson gave their presentation on the Citizen Washington Focus trip that they attended in Washington D.C. in June.

4-H members also took time to thank everyone that made 4-H programming possible this year including Club Leaders, Project Leaders, County Commissioners, Fair Board Members, Livestock Committee Members and local donors. All six clubs were recognized for Club Completion awards for completing at least 75 percent of the projects their members were enrolled in.

A special award, The Friend of 4-H Award, was given to the Owens Family. They thanked for countless hours given to 4-H and were thanked for continuing to give to 4-H despite the unimaginable loss they went through this year. The award was presented by Lucinda Mares who had a close friendship with their daughter, Jessica Owens.

Kylee Garrett, a Freshman of Holyoke, was given the I Dare You Award. She was recognized for her willingness to help younger 4-H members and for her work ethic. She was given a certificate and the 'I Dare You' book which is written by William Danforth which inspires youth to overcome whatever is holding them back from becoming the best leader they can be.

The Rookie of the Year Award was given to Milo Kurtzer, a Freshman, Haxtun. Kurtzer stood out as a first-year member because of his willingness to learn and desire to help others. He was described as very committed to his club and community by club leaders and was labeled as a quick learner by others who completed livestock projects along side him.

Record book grand champions were Jace Bamford, junior; Juan Nuñez, intermediate; and Cash Weber, senior. Herdsman Awards are given to clubs for the best care of their animals and pens during County Fair. This year, Herdsman Awards were Beef, Better Beef Makers; Swine, Raising Ranchers; Goat, Challengers; Sheep, Haxtun Pioneers; Horse, Paoli Hustlers; and Rabbit, Challengers.

Aubrey Bieber, a seventh grader of Holyoke, was the treasurer for Challengers 4-H Club and won the Champion Treasurer's Book.

Ruby Santistevan, a fifth grader of Haxtun, was named the Most Improved Horseman for the year. She was recognized for improved skill and confidence with her riding.

The 4-H Achievement Day also serves as the start of National 4-H Week. National 4-H Week not only recognizes current 4-H members and their achievements but also welcomes new members and volunteers.