On Friday, November 7, over 120 Fulton and Montgomery county 4-H members, family members and volunteers celebrated their annual recognition night at the Amsterdam Elk’s Lodge. Throughout the year 4-Hers participate in projects ranging from woodworking and sewing, to horticulture and animal science. These projects culminate in exhibits at the Fonda Fair in late August, where 4-Hers show off their work to the general public. The members who document activities in their record books and turn them in to be judged on merit are eligible to receive project award discs, a symbol of their years’ worth of hard work and dedication to their projects.

Members were also chosen to receive scholarships towards attending various leadership conferences which are held throughout the year. Zach Beam, Mackenzie Hart, Stephen Porath, and Jalene Otero won scholarships to attend 4-H Captial Days in March 2015. Through this program 4-Hers spend two days in Albany learning about public policy and meeting state government representatives.

Beth Mallett, Alison Busch, Aubrey VanValkenburgh, and Michael Johnson received scholarships to attend the 4-H Career Exploration Program in June 2015. This event, held on Cornell’s campus, allows youth to explore different careers and college life.

Laura Littrell, Kate Phillips, Sarah Cook, and Hannah Chorlton won scholarships towards attending the NYS 4-H Agricultural Business Career Conference in October 2015. These members will attend a two day conference at SUNY Cobleskill which focuses on diversified agri-businesses.

The “I Dare You Award” is given to a 4-H member who demonstrates personal integrity, leads a well-rounded life, is responsible, and is an emerging leader. This year’s recipient was Beth Mallett of Fort Plain.

The 2014 Montgomery County Outstanding Junior 4-H Member was Michelle Joyce, (Fultonville), and the Fulton County Outstanding 4-H Member was Meagan Dion, (Gloversville). In the senior division, the recipient of the Carolyn B. Nare Montgomery County 4-H Teen award was Jacob Cressy, (Fultonville); and Alsion Busch, (Johnstown), received the Pat Dolly Fulton County 4-H Teen Award.

The 2014 Outstanding 4-H Club Award was awarded to the Northville Falcon Helpers, led by Jenn Donovan.

Finally, Betty Kilcullen, (Ames), was awarded the Agnes B. Waner Award for outstanding 4-H volunteerism in Montgomery County. The recipient of the Shirley Rhodes & Arthur White Award for Fulton County 4-H Outstanding Volunteer was Clarissa Putman, (Gloversville).