Happy May!
This year is flying by! Summer programming is starting to happen this month. We are excited for our upcoming workshops and camps happening these next few months. Fair entries will be open for you to start entering the first part of May, so keep an eye open for the link to be announced! Congrats to our seniors and happy end of the school year! Have a fun and safe summer!
Congratulations to Our 4-H Public Speaking Contestants!
The Webster County Public Speaking Contest was held on April 30th at the Webster County Fairgrounds. Congratulations to the 14 participants below!
Junior Speech:
- Lauren Macklin: Champion-Purple
- Avery Macklin: Reserve Champion-Purple
- Zane Anderson: Blue
- Emily Pavelka: Blue
Intermediate Speech:
- Anna Macklin: Champion-Purple
- Elisha Johnson Reserve Champion- Blue
- Molly Hemberger: Blue
- Isabella Whitten: Blue
Senior Speech:
- Megan Macklin: Champion-Purple
- Ava Pavelka: Reserve Champion- Blue
Intermediate Presentation:
- Lizzy Berns: Champion-Purple
- Tallie Berns: Reserve Champion- Purple
Senior Presentation:
- Libby Macklin: Champion-Purple
- Anna-Hope Berns: Reserve Champion- Purple
Congratulations to our Seniors!
Congratulations to all of the seniors graduating this month, especially to our 4-H seniors! Give them a big congratulations when you see them!
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Brooks Armstrong Brooks is the son of Jeff and Ashley Armstrong and is a senior at Red Cloud High School. He has participated in projects such as market beef, foods/cooking, ice cream roll, and photography. Brooks is a member of the Warriors 4-H Club. His favorite part of being in 4-H is making new friends and going to the carnival after the rodeo. Brooks plans to attend the University of Nebraska Lincoln and major in Agricultural Engineering. | Samantha Bonifas Samantha is the daughter of Kevin and Kim Bonifas and is a senior at Silver Lake High School. She is a member of the Midway Webster 4-H Club. Samantha has participated in projects such as swine, photography, heritage, foods, and horticulture. Her favorite part of being in 4-H is that she has always loved show day and hanging out with friends and family every year during the Webster County Fair. Samantha plans to attend Kansas State University and major in Agricultural Economics. | Abigail Marie Engelhardt Abigail is the daughter of Tim and Melanie Engelhardt. She is a member of the Midway Webster 4-H Club. Abigail is home-schooled with the Laurel Mae School of Excellence. She has participated in projects such as sheep, sewing, quilts of valor, baking, cake decorating contest, speech, fashion show, and aerospace. "My favorite part of being in 4-H is having the opportunity to continually expand my knowledge about my projects year after year. I’ve enjoyed being able to learn important life skills by working on 4-H projects, with 4-H staff and volunteers, as well as my friends. Not only have I loved learning with my friends, but exploring the world of 4-H with them over the years has created many memories that will last a lifetime." After graduation, Abigail will continue to pursue her Associates of Applied Science Degree in Business Administration at Central Community College in Hastings.. She then plans to transfer to the University of Nebraska-Kearney to pursue a Bachelors of Applied Science Degree in Business Administration. |
Brooks Armstrong
Brooks is the son of Jeff and Ashley Armstrong and is a senior at Red Cloud High School. He has participated in projects such as market beef, foods/cooking, ice cream roll, and photography. Brooks is a member of the Warriors 4-H Club. His favorite part of being in 4-H is making new friends and going to the carnival after the rodeo. Brooks plans to attend the University of Nebraska Lincoln and major in Agricultural Engineering.
Samantha Bonifas
Samantha is the daughter of Kevin and Kim Bonifas and is a senior at Silver Lake High School. She is a member of the Midway Webster 4-H Club. Samantha has participated in projects such as swine, photography, heritage, foods, and horticulture. Her favorite part of being in 4-H is that she has always loved show day and hanging out with friends and family every year during the Webster County Fair. Samantha plans to attend Kansas State University and major in Agricultural Economics.
Abigail Marie Engelhardt
Abigail is the daughter of Tim and Melanie Engelhardt. She is a member of the Midway Webster 4-H Club. Abigail is home-schooled with the Laurel Mae School of Excellence. She has participated in projects such as sheep, sewing, quilts of valor, baking, cake decorating contest, speech, fashion show, and aerospace. "My favorite part of being in 4-H is having the opportunity to continually expand my knowledge about my projects year after year. I’ve enjoyed being able to learn important life skills by working on 4-H projects, with 4-H staff and volunteers, as well as my friends. Not only have I loved learning with my friends, but exploring the world of 4-H with them over the years has created many memories that will last a lifetime." After graduation, Abigail will continue to pursue her Associates of Applied Science Degree in Business Administration at Central Community College in Hastings.. She then plans to transfer to the University of Nebraska-Kearney to pursue a Bachelors of Applied Science Degree in Business Administration.
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Kassi Jones Kassi is the daughter of Troy and Renae Jones. She is a senior at Silver Lake High School and a member of the Midway Webster 4-H Club. Kassi has shown livestock in her 4-H career. Her favorite part of being in 4-H is helping the youth 4-H members. Kassi plans to attend the Unversity of Nebraska-Lincoln and major in Animal Science | Josi Sharp Josi is the daughter of Jesse and Kari Sharp. She is a senior at Silver Lake High School and is a member of the Midway Webster 4-H Club. Josi has participated in numerous static projects including several cooking projects, Shopping in Style, Beyond the Needle, Crocheting, Design Designs, as well as participating in ice cream roll, the 4-H talent show, and several service and club projects. "Being a member of the Midway Webster 4-H Club has been a memorable experience. Some of my favorite memories include the dance routines we prepared for the 4-H talent shows, the fun we had creating new ice cream flavors for the ice cream roll, and watching the rodeo with friends. 4-H is not only about the exhibits, but about developing lasting friendships." Josi plans to attend Hastings College where she will dance for the Broncos Dance Team and pursue a degree in radiology. | Veda ThiesSchool Attended: Veda is the daughter of Michael Thies and Crystal Godina. She is a senior at Harvard High School and is a member of A Club of Our Own 4-H Club. Veda has participated in photography and showing goats. "My favorite part of 4-H is the time I get to spend with my family. I also really enjoy showing my goats and being able to be competitive." Veda plans to attend Doane University and major in psychology or music as she has received two scholarships to keep singing and playing her instrument. She also plans to keep helping her family with 4-H for the coming summers. |
Kassi Jones
Kassi is the daughter of Troy and Renae Jones. She is a senior at Silver Lake High School and a member of the Midway Webster 4-H Club. Kassi has shown livestock in her 4-H career. Her favorite part of being in 4-H is helping the youth 4-H members. Kassi plans to attend the Unversity of Nebraska-Lincoln and major in Animal Science
Josi Sharp
Josi is the daughter of Jesse and Kari Sharp. She is a senior at Silver Lake High School and is a member of the Midway Webster 4-H Club. Josi has participated in numerous static projects including several cooking projects, Shopping in Style, Beyond the Needle, Crocheting, Design Designs, as well as participating in ice cream roll, the 4-H talent show, and several service and club projects. "Being a member of the Midway Webster 4-H Club has been a memorable experience. Some of my favorite memories include the dance routines we prepared for the 4-H talent shows, the fun we had creating new ice cream flavors for the ice cream roll, and watching the rodeo with friends. 4-H is not only about the exhibits, but about developing lasting friendships." Josi plans to attend Hastings College where she will dance for the Broncos Dance Team and pursue a degree in radiology.
Veda Thies
School Attended:
Veda is the daughter of Michael Thies and Crystal Godina. She is a senior at Harvard High School and is a member of A Club of Our Own 4-H Club. Veda has participated in photography and showing goats. "My favorite part of 4-H is the time I get to spend with my family. I also really enjoy showing my goats and being able to be competitive." Veda plans to attend Doane University and major in psychology or music as she has received two scholarships to keep singing and playing her instrument. She also plans to keep helping her family with 4-H for the coming summers.
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Ben Ely Ben is the son of John and Kim Ely. He is a senior at Red Cloud High School and is a member of the Warrior 4-Hers Club. He has participated in projects such as beef, swine, horticulture, home economics, baking, and photography. His favorite part of being in 4-H is the Webster County Fair. Ben plans to attend Doane University to major in agribusiness and play football. |
Ben Ely
Ben is the son of John and Kim Ely. He is a senior at Red Cloud High School and is a member of the Warrior 4-Hers Club. He has participated in projects such as beef, swine, horticulture, home economics, baking, and photography. His favorite part of being in 4-H is the Webster County Fair. Ben plans to attend Doane University to major in agribusiness and play football.
Fairbooks are In!
2023 Webster County Fair Premium Books are in and at the office! Stop by and grab yours today. ShoWorks is projected to be open at the end of the first week of May.
Photo Help Wanted
The Red Cloud Chief is looking for a 4-H youth member that has participated in advanced photography to take pictures during the Webster County 4-H shows at the fair this year. Please contact Ron Bartels at the Red Cloud Chief for more information at 402-746-3700.
Enroll in Webster 4-H
Enroll in 4-H for 2023! Use the button below to get enrolled in Webster County 4-H. When enrolling in the system, please select all possible projects you may do at the county fair. In late May, you will register the exhibits that you are bringing to the county fair based on the projects you enrolled in. Enrollment in the project means you have an interest in learning more. Fair exhibit registration means and animal or static exhibit is coming to fair.
All volunteers must enroll prior to service. The state deadline of enrollment is June 15th. 
PASE
Sign-up for Premier Animal Science Events (PASE)!
There is still time to say ‘yes’ to PASE! Youth must be committed and teams finalized by May 15th. The contests include Poultry Judging, Meats Judging, Quiz Bowl, Skill-a-Thon, and Livestock Judging and will be held on Wednesday, June 21st and Thursday, June 22nd on UNL East Campus. Families cover the cost of the dorms ($24 / night) and paid by May 15th to the Webster County Youth Council.
Practices will be held the following dates w/ locations to prepare the youth.
- Sunday, May 21st – 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm – Webster County Fairgrounds, Bladen, NE
- Wednesday, May 31st – 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm – Adams County Extension Office, Hastings, NE
- Friday, June 1st – 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm – Adams County Extension Office, Hastings, NE
- Monday, June 12th – 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm – Blue Hill Community Center, Blue Hill, NE
- Saturday, June 17th – 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm – Adams County Extension Office, Hastings, NE
Let Beth know if you want to join in the fun!
County Fair Horse Level Update
All Horse Levels must be completed by June 15th. Levels are required for Speed and Performance Events. Junior exhibitors must have Level 1 to compete. Intermediates must at least have a level 1 and recommend level 2. Seniors must at least have a level 2, recommend a level 3. Classes that are levels 3 & 4 at the Nebraska State 4-H Horse Show will be dropped one level lower at the Webster County Fair. If exhibitor is only showing halter and/or showmanship, levels are not required. Please see the list of level requirements below.
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English Classes | Western Classes | Speed Classes |
English Classes
Western Classes
Speed Classes
4-H Superintendents & Crew
We are still looking crew and youth to help our superintendents for the day of a specific area during fair week! Please sign up here: https://go.unl.edu/super-crew23
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South Central Livestock Judging Clinic & Camp | County Day Camp | Tie Dye |
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Geocache | CloverKid Day Camp | Mobile Science Lab |
South Central Livestock Judging Day- Volunteers
We are looking for the following to help make our South Central Livestock Judging Day complete! Reach out to Katie or myself if you can help with anything listed below.
- 8 group leaders from 10 am to 1 pm
- Adults and/or youth to help set up on May 30th starting at 10 am (YQCA will be held at 9 am)
Nebraska 4-H Opportunities
Take a look at the Nebraska 4-H Opportunties newsletter that shows different events, such as horse shows, progress shows, and much more happening across the state! This is updated weekly. Check it out here: https://www.smore.com/mdacv
UNL Livestock Judging Camp
Looking to level up your livestock evaluation and oral reason skills? Make plans to attend this year’s UNL Livestock Judging Camp in Lincoln on June 7-9. Registration is $300 and is due by Monday, May 22. Learn more at https://animalscience.unl.edu/winners-unlimited-judging-camp
Come Learn with Clara
Take your horsemanship skills to the next level by attending one of our upcoming Come Learn with Carla horsemanship clinics: Central City on June 2, Lincoln on June 3, and Albion on June 4. In a fun, safe environment, you’ll practice horsemanship and training maneuvers under the guidance of Carla Wennberg – an experienced horseman, clinician, and judge. Carla has been an AQHA & NSBA judge for 36 years and NRHA judge for 28 years. With experience as a teacher and coach at St. Andrews University, Carla has coached 2 National Champion IHSA teams. She is currently a committee member for AQHA and NSBA judges and an IHSA board member. Each clinic offers separate tracks for beginner, intermediate, and advanced riders, so you can build confidence alongside others at your own comfort level. Clinics are open to all youth ages 8-18, regardless of 4-H membership, as well as adults. Registration and fees are due by Friday, May 5. Register now at https://events.unl.edu/NE4H-Horse/search/?q=Come+Learn+with+Carla+Clinics
Fort Robinson 4-H Horse Camp
Set in the beautiful Pine Ridge region of Western Nebraska, Fort Robinson provides the ideal setting to enjoy one of the greatest outdoor experiences of a lifetime – horseback riding! Youth ages 8+ are invited to join us for the Fort Robinson 4-H Horse Camp from June 8-10 to enhance their expertise as horse enthusiasts, practice their horsemanship skills, and build a greater bond with their horses. For more information, visit https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/northernpanhandle/fort-robinson-4-h-horse-camp/
Tractor & Farm Equipment Safety Course
Tractor and farm equipment safety courses are now open for registration! Teens ages 14- 15 who work on farms, or others who are interested in learning about tractor and farm equipment safety practices, can register for a safety training course offered at seven locations across Nebraska from May 22 through June 8. Learn more at https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/lincolnmcpherson/2023-tractor-safety-training-for-teens-announced/
Youth Leadership Conference
At the Youth Leadership Conference, teens will find inspiration and motivation, network with like-minded peers and mentors, and develop the necessary skills so that they can make a difference in their community, their country, and their world. This year’s Conference will be held at Camp Comeca in Cozad from June 19-21. All youth–not just 4-H members–ages 14-18 are welcome! Visit https://4h.unl.edu/leadership-conference
Summer Camps
Summer will be in full swing before you know it, so now is the time to register for 4-H Summer Camp! Our camps provide a safe, structured, and supervised environment where young people are inspired to get active, disconnect from technology, develop friendships and social skills, and create lifelong memories! Find more details and register now at https://4h.unl.edu/camps-summer
Diamond Clover
The Diamond Clover Program gives youth a structured opportunity to learn and practice skills that prepare them for success in the future. Participants earn rewards for setting goals, trying new things, and keeping records. All youth are invited to participate, regardless of enrollment. Learn more at https://4h.unl.edu/diamond-clover
Big Red Camps
Big Red Camps give students the opportunity to develop new skills, prepare for college, stand out in applications, explore potential careers, and meet like-minded peers in a safe and structured environment. This year, we’ve got sessions on Agriculture & Natural Resources, Animation, Cryptography, Digital Media, Engineering, Esports, Veterinary Science, and so much more! Find all the session descriptions, register, and apply for scholarships at https://4h.unl.edu/big-red-camps
4-H Shooting Sports National Championships
We need your help! The 2023 4-H Shooting Sports National Championships are being held in Grand Island from June 25-30. Volunteers are incredibly important to the success of this event, and we need help to ensure this everything runs smoothly. We have a huge variety of roles and shifts available. To volunteer, please complete the interest form athttps://4h.unl.edu/shooting-sports/national-volunteer , and we’ll send out volunteer assignments by May 30.
UNL Extension in Webster County Newsletter
Check out what is happening in Nebraska Extension here! This newsletter is separate from 4-H.
Alexa Pedersen
Alexa Pedersen is the Office Manager for the Webster County Extension Office. Alexa provides help in assisting clientele with questions that can be forwarded to a specific educator. She assists educators in programs that are put on in Webster County, such as pesticide training, and beef programs. She also provides knowledge in the 4-H world by helping families with any 4-H questions that come in. She is skillful in 4-H Online, ShoWorks, and helps prepare for 4-H programming, county fair, and state fair. Alexa is also a part of the 4-H Data Dream Team for Nebraska 4-H as well as the State Fair 4-H Beef Team.
Katie Bolte
4-H Programming Assistant
Samantha Bonifas
4-H Programming Intern
Samantha is our 2023 summer 4-H intern. She has been a Webster County 4-H member for over 10 years and has participated in projects such as showing pigs, static exhibits, contests, or camps. She has always loved the connections, friendships, and life long skills that she has developed through 4-H. She is so excited to help spread the joy of 4-H this summer!
Beth Janning
4-H Youth Development Extension Educator in Adams/Webster Counties
Beth Janning is a 4-H Youth Development Extension Educator. She provides programming in school enrichment, after-school, and traditional 4-H Programs. Her topic areas include but not limited to animal science, science, engineering and volunteer development.
Dr. Lindsay Waechter-Mead
Beef Systems Educator, DVM
Lindsay Waechter-Mead is the Beef Systems Educator in Webster County and serves surrounding counties in this region. She is excited to bring her interests surrounding cow/calf health and preventative medicine to the Beef Team. Her current work involves looking at environmental effects on neonatal calf immunity and colostral transfer. She is also passionate about rural agriculture and what the veterinary profession can do to positively influence rural communities to ensure that generations can continue to enjoy the life that she loves.
