The Montezuma County 4-H Club, staff, parents, volunteers and supporters met at the county fairgrounds on Oct. 14 to celebrate achievements and contributions during 2016.
The club also recognized members and leaders of the Clover Buds, a noncompetitive 4-H group for children ages 5-7. In 2016, 24 Clover Buds participated in the program, and 11 graduated and will become 4-H members in 2017.
The 4-H club on Oct. 14 also named winners in its Project Record Books project, which records accomplishments compiled by 4-H members. The Best Project Record Books winners for 2016 are Lauren Butler, for the Beef category; Duncan Martin, for Dogs; Clayton Elliott, for Goats; Abigail Smith, for Horses; Ashley Jeter, for Poultry; Ethan Bruni, for Rabbits; Tylee Greelee, for Sheep; Makaya Higgins, for Swine; and Cassidy Leonard, for Multispecies.
Several 4-H members were name Outstanding 4-H Members of the Year for achievements in 2016. They include seniors Kate Treinen and Chance Cote and juniors Jake Oliver and Cael Schmittel.
The Friends of 4-H Award recognized the Southwestern Cowbelles, First National Bank, Four Corners Rifle and Pistol Club and Cortez Elks Lodge.
For more information on award winners, visit the 4-H club’s Facebook page.
Youths and adults who wish to participate in 4-H are encouraged to contact the Colorado State University Montezuma County Extension Office at 970-565-3123.
Vincent Conclin contributed to this article.