2025

Lancaster County 4-H and 4-H Council presented the Lancaster County 4-H Achievement Celebration on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025. The theme was “4-H’ers Have Heart.” 4-H members, clubs and leaders were recognized for their 2024 achievements. The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners proclaimed Feb. 13 as “4-H Achievement Day.” The proclamation was read at Achievement Celebration by Lancaster County Commissioner Chelsea Johnson — see proclamation.

Achievement Celebration Photos on Flickr    

Achievement Awards Slideshow Presentation (YouTube video)

Achievement Awards Slideshow Presentation (PDF) 

Accomplishments of Note Slideshow Presentation (YouTube video)

Accomplishments of Note Slideshow Presentation (PDF)

• Master of Ceremonies: Russ Parrott, 4‑H Council President
• Pledges led by: 4‑H Council members
• Lancaster County Board of Commissioners’ Proclamation of 4‑H Achievement Day read by: Chelsea Johnson, Lancaster County Commissioner
• University of Nebraska–Lincoln Admissions Representatives: Greg Fritz, UNL Admissions; Claire Swanson, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources 
• Lincoln Center Kiwanis Representative: Dayle Williamson

AWARDS PRESENTATION

NEBRASKA 4‑H ACHIEVEMENT APPLICATION RECOGNITION

The Nebraska 4‑H Achievement Application is a record of a 4‑H member’s 4‑H experiences, leadership experiences, community involvement/service-learning and career spark. Each Lancaster County 4‑H’er who submits an Annual Achievement application receives a $30 Activity Certificate from Lancaster County 4‑H Council redeemable towards 4‑H activities and supplies.

• Completed a Junior application: Andrea Bettenhausen, Ian Bettenhausen, Emily Crawford, Adam Gabel, Molly Gabel, Parker Hansen, Amorita Payne, Cora Pracheil, Silas Pracheil, Alexa Smith
• Completed a Senior application: Emily Bauman, Khloe Cuttlers, Ethan Gabel, Morgan Gabel, Natalie Plautz

NEBRASKA 4‑H CLUBS OF EXCELLENCE

Nebraska 4‑H Clubs of Excellence have met the criteria outlined by Nebraska 4‑H to be considered a “Club of Excellence.” Some of the criteria includes: choose/elect youth officers, have one club project members do together and complete one community service project.

• Clever Clovers — led by Chris and Sara Hansen. The club proudly supported 4‑H by volunteering at 4‑H Council’s food stand during the Lancaster County Super Fair. They also spread joy by creating holiday cards for local hospital patients. In the process, they learned the importance of giving back and the profound impact of small, heartfelt gestures. 
• Fantastic 4 4‑H Club — led by Jen Smith. This club took on new responsibilities by caring for their project chickens when the owner was called away for an emergency, using teamwork to tackle things like coop clean out and baths. They also hosted a Valentine’s party for the Fresh Start Home for the second year in a row, treating the residents to a cookie decorating party, making connections with sensitivity and kindness. 
• Fusion 4‑H’ers — led by Marsha Prior and Analisa Peterson. The club demonstrated their compassion by sewing 27 wheelchair and walker caddies for residents of Pemberley Senior Care Center, filling them with thoughtful items. They also hosted three game nights and decorated sugar cookies with the residents, fostering meaningful relationships. 
• Horticulture 4‑H Club — led by Mary Jane Frogge. Members cultivated both plants and skills this past year, participating in the Special Garden Project and keeping garden journals to grow their skills. Their hard work blossomed into thoughtful care packages of homegrown herbs, which they shared with family and friends, spreading the “fruits” of their labor. 
• JP2 Crew — led by Megan Bauman. This last year, JP2 Crew members crafted sock puppets to exhibit at the Super Fair, highlighting their artistic talents and love for performance. In the spirit of giving, they attached cheerful notes to candy canes and handed them out at the library where they hold their meetings, spreading holiday cheer. 
• Lancaster Leaders — led by Jenny DeBuhr and Jessica Marsh. Members did a variety of activities and had a service-filled year. They explored art and home design projects, cooking and even beekeeping. They represented 4‑H as they handed out candy at the Veterans Day parade. They also volunteered at the Food Bank of Lincoln and worked two shifts at the 4‑H food stand during the fair. 
• Little Green Giants — led by Tracy Pracheil. Members had an exciting and impactful year, exploring a variety of projects, including outdoor education. They embraced their creative side by reusing trash to make new, useful items — showing their commitment to sustainability. Last fall, they took a hands-on approach to care for the environment, and picked up garbage at Oak Lake Park, vowing as a club to never litter. 
• Prairie Explorers — led by Bethany Bettenhausen and Elizabeth May. Members volunteered with Gifts of Love, wrapping presents, greeting families and serving snacks — gaining a deeper understanding of the importance of supporting the less fortunate. The club also raised funds through a garage sale, donating the proceeds to City Impact, the People’s City Mission and the Lincoln Pregnancy Center. 
• Rabbits R Us — led by Sarah Lanik-Frain and Jennifer Metcalf. Members managed the set-up and tear-down of the rabbit area at the fair and purchased two fans for the comfort of the animals and the exhibitors — along with working a couple of shifts at the 4‑H Council food stand. The club also spread joy at The Lexington Assisted Living Center by making cards for residents and visiting with their rabbits. 
• Southern Lancaster Kids — led by Hope Bauman. As a club, members worked together to design and paint a club banner for the Super Fair. They collected donations of gloves and socks for individuals newly released from correctional centers, offering both warmth and support during a challenging transition. The club also spread kindness by making heartfelt cards for nursing home residents, brightening their days. 
• Villa Marie Eagles — led by Debra Faith. Members explored a variety of projects, including woodworking, gumball machines, sewing, acrylic painting and rocketry, showcasing their creativity and broadening their horizons. They also picked up litter at Waverly parks, helping to keep their community beautiful and clean.

NEBRASKA 4‑H DIAMOND CLOVER AWARD

The Nebraska 4‑H Diamond Clover Program is a statewide program which encourages 4‑H members to engage in a variety of projects and activities. At the beginning of the 4‑H year, youth choose goals from a provided list. At the end of the 4‑H year, they complete a report which documents their accomplishments. Youth may progress from Levels 1–6.

• Level 1 – Amethyst: Owen Ageton, Lundy Dell, Shelby Huenink, Anna Kennedy, Rachel Kennedy, Mackenzie Mackling, Jesse May, Drew Moscrip, Natalie Pape, Anthony Pflanz, Sandrafaye Schulz, Ruby Thomas, Bella Wynn
• Level 2 – Aquamarine: David Bauman, Piper Bauman, Ian Bettenhausen, Lexus Cooper, Sarah Kennedy, MacKenzie McCoy, Gracie Mittan-DeBuhr, Abigail Page, Jordyn Schmeeckle, Delaney Steinmentz
• Level 3 – Ruby: Monica Bauman, Molly Boysen, Hannah Chevalier, Emily Crawford, Mia Crawford, Sophie Huenink, Isaac May, Lucy Pflanz, Josephine Polk, Grace Tetzlaff
• Level 4 – Sapphire: Brayden Belew, Payzleigh Belew, Andrea Bettenhausen, Helayna DeBuhr, Reese Dell, Evelyn May, Evan Mittan-DeBuhr, Maria Polk
• Level 5 – Emerald: Emily Bauman, Tenley Bauman, Amorita Payne, Alexa Smith
• Level 6 – Diamond: Emma Thomson

LANCASTER COUNTY 4‑H COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS

Presented to 4‑H’ers who have completed significant hours of community service. Award recipients receive a $30 Activity Certificate from Lancaster County 4‑H Council redeemable towards 4‑H activities and supplies.

• Age 13 & under: Monica Bauman, Piper Bauman, Tenley Bauman, Andrea Bettenhausen, Ian Bettenhausen, Molly Boysen, Emily Crawford, Reese Dell, Parker Hansen, Evelyn May, Natalie Pape, Amorita Payne, Sandrafaye Schulz, Alexa Smith
• Age 14 & over: Emily Bauman, Mia Crawford, Khloe Cuttlers, Nettie Lunquist, Kamryn Wanser

LANCASTER COUNTY SUPER FAIR 4‑H LIVESTOCK HERDSMANSHIP

At the Lancaster County Super Fair, all 4‑H clubs, FFA chapters and independent members exhibiting in animal shows are automatically judged for Herdsmanship. Emphasis is on animal care, but other judging criteria include clean and orderly stalls, pens, alleys and storage areas. Courtesy, conduct and sportsmanship of the exhibitors is also important.

• Beef/Bucket Calf — Champion: Happy Go Lucky 4‑H Club
• Swine — Champion: Docter Family
• Poultry — Champion: (Team) Sophie Huenink, Amorita Payne, Korben Payne, Kyla Wharton
• Sheep/Meat Goat — Champion: Rasby Family
• Dairy/Pygmy Goat — Champion (Tie): Smith Family and Petta Family

LANCASTER COUNTY SUPER FAIR 4‑H DOG VERSATILITY AWARDS

This special recognition is awarded to 4‑H Dog Show exhibitors at the Lancaster County Super Fair who entered the same dog in obedience, showmanship and agility classes in the same year, and earned a minimum of a red ribbon in each of the three areas.

• Saylor Bontrager, Ruby Dean, Katie Fisher, Sophie Huenink, Olivia Jelinek, Dayton Jons, Liam Powers, Alexa Smith, Ellianah Stephens, Remington Tate

LINCOLN CENTER KIWANIS OUTSTANDING 4‑H CLUB AWARDS

To encourage participation in the county fair, Lincoln Center Kiwanis Club awards traveling trophies to the top 4‑H clubs participating in the Lancaster County Super Fair. One category winner is awarded the Wayne C. Farmer Memorial Cup as the overall Outstanding 4‑H Club for the year. Clubs receive points based on all members’ total fair exhibit and contest placings. 

• Category I (membership of 5–10): Everything Equine — The club’s 8 members had 175 total entries at the fair, exhibiting in a variety of horse shows and participating in Horse Judging and Showmanship. Chelsea Sackett and Kim Funk are the leaders. This is the 2nd year this club has won an Outstanding Club Award. 
• Category II (membership of 11–20) & Wayne C. Farmer Memorial Cup winner: Fantastic 4 4‑H Club — The club’s 14 members had 275 total entries at the fair, showcasing projects in a wide variety of static exhibit areas, animal shows and contests. Jen Smith is the leader. This is the 10th year this club has won an Outstanding Club award and 5th year as the overall winner. 
• Category III (membership of 21 or more): Southern Lancaster Kids — The club’s 22 members had 367 total entries at the fair, showcasing projects in a wide variety of static exhibit areas, animal shows and contests. Hope Bauman is the leader. This is the 1st year this club has won an Outstanding Club Award.

LANCASTER COUNTY 4‑H COUNCIL LEADERSHIP AWARDS

Open to youth in grades 10–12 who show outstanding qualities in servant leadership. The award recognizes youth who strive to be their personal best and make a positive difference in their schools, youth groups, 4‑H clubs and communities. They do not need to hold leadership positions currently, but should be recognized by peers and adults who work with them as emerging leaders. Recipients receive $50 from Lancaster County 4‑H Council.

• Emily Bauman has been an active 4‑H member for 11 years. She is a dedicated member of the JP2 Crew 4‑H club and Teen Council where she serves as the Technology Officer. She has excelled in multiple areas of 4‑H, earning top awards in the Life Challenge, Fashion Show and Table Setting Contest.  
• Ruby Dean has been a dedicated 4‑H member for 10 years. She is an active member of the Clever Clovers and Four on the Floor 4‑H dog club, and serves on 4‑H Council. Ruby has excelled in the 4‑H dog program earning top awards in dog showmanship, agility and obedience.  
• Morgan Gabel has been an active 4‑H member for 10 years. She is a member of the Little Green Giants 4‑H club and Teen Council and she also served as a Healthy Habits Food Loss & Waste 4‑H Teen Ambassador. She showcases her creativity and skills by entering a wide variety of static exhibits at the county and state fairs.  
• Nettie Lunquist has been a 4‑H member for 11 years and is a member of the Five Star 4‑H’ers club. Demonstrating excellence in photography, she has garnered recognition at both county and state fairs. This past year one of her photos was selected to be exhibited at the UNL East Campus union.    
• Catherine Polk is a 10 year 4‑H’er and member of Star City Cornhuskers and Horticulture 4‑H clubs. She represented Nebraska as part of a team at the National Poultry Judging Contest in Louisville, KY. She completes and enters a wide variety of static exhibits at the county fair.
• Emma Thomson has been a 4‑H’er for 8 years.  She is a dedicated member of the Rabbits R Us, Sew Green and Lincoln Shooting Stars 4‑H clubs. She is also serving as Teen Council and 4‑H Council secretaries. She has received top awards in several areas such as the county Speech, Public Service Announcement and Life Challenge Contests.

LANCASTER COUNTY OUTSTANDING 4‑H MEMBER AWARD

Presented to individuals 14 years of age or older who have excelled in their involvement with the Lancaster County 4‑H program. Selection is based on participation in a wide variety of — and depth of involvement in — 4‑H activities.

• Ethan Gabel — A dedicated 4‑H member for 10 years, he is actively involved in NBots Robostorm and Little Green Giants 4‑H clubs, and 4‑H Teen Council. With a strong passion for STEM, nearly all of Ethan’s top projects have centered around science and technology. One of his most impressive achievements was designing and building an AI-powered LEGO sorting robot, which earned him a Premier Science Award at the Nebraska State Fair. He served as a 4‑H Tech Changemaker for three years where he helped teach digital skills to youth and adults. He currently is serving as a Healthy Habits Food Loss and Waste 4‑H Teen Ambassador, where he helps educate young people through an afterschool program. Beyond competitions, he was selected to represent Nebraska at 4‑H Congress in Atlanta, Georgia. He was also selected to attend the Ignite Conference in Washington D.C. this March.

LANCASTER COUNTY MERITORIOUS SERVICE TO 4‑H AWARD 

Presented to individuals or organizations who have exhibited consistent and strong support of the Lancaster County 4‑H program. 

• Jen Smith — Jen began the Fantastic 4 4‑H Club in 2005 when her daughter, Paige, was about 8. She has continued serving as the organizational leader since then and her daughter Alexa is currently a member of this club. Under Jen’s guidance, her 4‑H club has thrived, earning prestigious honors such as Nebraska Club of Excellence and Lincoln Center Kiwanis Outstanding 4‑H Club. But beyond awards, Jen has instilled a deep commitment to service, such as donating items to people in need or making homemade greeting cards for senior citizens. She once shared in an interview, “I truly love helping youth discover ways to give back to their communities — guiding them through and around barriers to empower them to follow their hearts and make their dreams a reality.” Jen’s passion for education extends beyond her club. She has generously shared her expertise by leading speech workshops, teaching numerous Clover College sessions, and assisting with static exhibit judging and the Fashion Show. Additionally, she serves as a superintendent for both the Table Setting Contest and the Dog Show, ensuring these events run smoothly for 4‑H’ers.

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS

The Lancaster County 4‑H program offers a variety of college scholarships to active senior 4‑H members. 

LANCASTER COUNTY 4‑H COUNCIL

Awards $700 scholarships to active Lancaster County 4‑H’ers.

• Liz Boshart, Ethan Gabel, Nettie Lunquist, Connor Paitz, Carley Parrott, Natalie Plautz, Micah Pracheil

LANCASTER COUNTY 4‑H TEEN COUNCIL

Awards $300 scholarships to current 4‑H’ers who are active in 4‑H Teen Council.

• Carley Parrott

LINCOLN CENTER KIWANIS

Awards a $1,000 scholarship to a current high school senior who is active in 4‑H.

• Ethan Gabel

DICK FLEMING LEADERSHIP & COMMUNICATION

Awards a $250 scholarship to a 4‑H’er who has excelled in leadership and communication through 4‑H.

• Carley Parrott

LANE COMMUNITY

Awards a $200 scholarship to a 4‑H’er attending Raymond Central High School.

• Liam Tvrdy 

4‑H MILESTONE RECOGNITION

2025 4‑H SENIORS 

Graduating seniors receive a 4‑H Alumni T-shirt, courtesy of Lancaster County 4‑H Council.

• Lane Allen, Marley Anthens, Jacob Bauman, Gavin Becker, Zachary Beran, Shelby Bethune, Liz Boshart, Joshua Cantrell, Ryker Coleman, Bella Croghan, Charlie Davenport, Chloee DeLancey, Jacob Diedrichsen, John Drahota, Sierra Dreith, Anne Friesen, Elizabeth Funk, Ethan Gabel, Kyson Gana, Danika Gentry, Cara Green, Olivia Grieser, Addison Gropp, William Hammond, Ryon Hill, Rachel Hoffman, Drew Hughes, Claire Kolbet, Ryan Kraus, Maria LaPlante, Kamber Lechtenberg, Nettie Lunquist, Alyssa Monnier, TJ Mueller, Connor Paitz, Carley Parrott, Jacob Pfeifer, Brianna Pittman, Natalie Plautz, Micah Pracheil, Lucas Redfield, Hadley Reimers, Isabelle Roth, Owen Savicky, Emmy Sheldon, Andrew Shields, Elena Simpson, Emma Skala, Ava Smith, Mason Snider, Hunter Stolley, John Sullivan, Ben Tapling, Nathanael Taylor, Chase Thomas, Liam Tvrdy, Cora Vander Woude, Chase Wessel, Ethan Wooledge, Cheryl Zeng

3-YEAR MEMBERS 

Youth who have been enrolled in 4‑H for 3 years receive a 4‑H pin, courtesy of Lancaster County 4‑H Council.

• Lucas Allen, Tyler Beran, Shelby Bethune, Murray Bettenhausen, Shiloh Braunsroth, Norah Bruss, Adrian Budhram, Logan Cariotto Zobel, Charity Carlson, Andrew Casebolt, Chloe Casebolt, Colton Casebolt, Kody Casebolt, John Chevalier, Thomas Chevalier, Nicholas Cornett, Chance Cotter, Emily Crawford, Joel Crees, Connor Crist, Kendal Danner, Chloee DeLancey, Raleigh Dinger, Reagan Dinger, Samuel Dowdy, Hailey Ferris, Johanna Friesen, Henry Gifford, Oliver Gifford, Cara Green, Aaron Grove, Ethan Grove, Zora Halsey-Craig, Emilia Hasemann, Rowan Hasemann, Ryan Henry, Charlotte Hesse, Noah Hill, Hollynn Hudson, Drew Hughes, Sofia Hunt, Alandra Huntley, Lathan Huntley, Harper Janssen, Mikael Jean Baptiste, Micah Jochum, Andrew Johnsen, Susanna Johnsen, Anna Kennedy, Rachel Kennedy, Leia King, Tanner Kleinschmit, Alexis Kruse, Michael Lawson, Carter Leise, Genevieve Lepper, Grant Lewis, Parker Lieske, Mia Maranville, Jack Mares, Owen McCarthy, Layne McCoy, MacKenzie McCoy, Remayah McCoy, Syvan McCoy, Payeton  Milligan, Alyssa Monnier, Adalynd Morse, Cameron Moscrip, Ethan Mumm, Hunter Navrkal, William O’Brien, Harrison Paider, Natalie Pape, Ava Peterman, Allie Petersen, Zoey Petta, Lyle Prunty, Arabelle Pulec, Leo Rauert, Logan Redland, Hadley Reimers, Violet Rhoades, Henry Ring, Maxwell Roat, Carolynn Roberts, Jackson Roberts, Nina Roberts, Amelia Rocole, Olivia Rogers, Cyrus Romero, Isabelle Roth, Eliana Schmoll, Dalton Shotkoski, Cole Skaw, Justus Skinner, Quinn Skoda, Beckett Smith, Isla Strasburger, John Sullivan, Landis Synak, Ben Tapling, Nathanael Taylor, Grace Tetzlaff, David Thaller, Brystal Thompson, Olivia Thompson, Isabelle Tonkin, Campbell Tran, Carl Traynor, Liam Tvrdy, Gwenyth Villines, Theodore Vinton, Avery Vlasnik, Preston Waldmann, Riley Wallace, Nora Westmore, Madi Wilson, Nolan Witkowicz, Lily Wood

CLUB LEADER YEARS OF SERVICE

Organizational and project leaders who have reached a milestone year of service receive an award, courtesy of Lancaster County 4‑H Council. Thank you volunteers!

• 2-Year Leaders: Anna Barr, Jeremy Cornett, Steve DeLancey, Jordan Dowdy, Jeffrey Dreith, Aaron Lyons
• 5-Year Leaders: Hope Bauman, Mindi Clarke*, Jenny DeBuhr, Kelsey Ebke*, Lindsay Erickson*, Amy Frink*, JJ Frink*, Caitlyn Heiden, Tony Isabell, Kent Kennedy, Ranelle Korth, Jessica Marsh, Tracy Pracheil*, Marti Thomson*, Allison Walbrecht, Denise Walbrecht
• 10-Year Leaders: John Croghan, Pamela Cuttlers, Chris Hansen, Sara Hansen, David Morgan, Tammy Sheldon 
• 15-Year Leaders: Kelly Brown*, Analisa Peterson, Amy Vander Woude*
• 20-Year Leader: Karol Swotek
• 45-Year Leader: Harry Muhlbach

*Belated recognition for previous milestone year.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF NOTE

Here are Lancaster County 4‑H’ers achievements from throughout the year, most of which have already received recognition at various events and/or in the NEBLINE newsletter.

SCHOLARSHIPS

LANCASTER COUNTY 4‑H & FFA LIVESTOCK BOOSTERS

The Lancaster County 4‑H Livestock Boosters awards two or three $500 college scholarships to Lancaster County 4‑H & FFA seniors, with preference to those who have exhibited in production livestock. These are recognized at the Lancaster County Super Fair 4‑H & FFA Livestock Premium Auction

• Clara Johnson, Kaelin Kuebler, Claire Polk

4‑H CAMPS — FROM LANCASTER COUNTY 4‑H COUNCIL

Lancaster County 4‑H Council provides a limited number of $200 scholarships to Lancaster County 4‑H youth to attend one or more of the following camps: Nebraska 4‑H Summer Camp, Nebraska 4‑H Big Red Summer Academic Camps and/or UNL Winners Unlimited Livestock Judging Camp. 

• Gracen Byrne, Grace Chevalier, Hannah Chevalier, John Chevalier, Lilee Chevalier, Madalyn Chevalier, Khloe Cuttlers, Ava Schepers, Collin Schepers, Paige Schepers

LIVESTOCK JUDGING CAMP — FROM LIVESTOCK BOOSTERS

If Lancaster County 4‑H Council receives unfilled request(s) for $200 scholarships to the UNL Winners Unlimited Livestock Judging Camp, the Lancaster County 4‑H Livestock Boosters contributes funds from the Lancaster County Super Fair 4‑H & FFA Livestock Premium Auction. 

• Corrine Byrne

NEBRASKA 4‑H FOUNDATION

The 4‑H Foundation provides up to $25,000 worth of scholarships each year to graduating seniors who have been actively involved in 4‑H. Youth apply for these scholarships as part of the Senior Achievement Application.

• Clara Johnson received the Rose and Guy Richard McDonald Scholarship for $1,000
• Christina Xu received the Women in STEM Scholarship for $1,000

OMAHA FASHION WEEK STUDENT DESIGNER EVENT

Eight Lancaster County 4‑H youth were part of 32 4‑H sewers selected statewide to participate in the Student Designer event for Omaha Fashion Week.

• Tenley Bauman — Black patterned fitness leggings and blush pink cropped zipper hoodie jacket
• Clara Johnson — Cobalt blue halter-style sequin sheath gown with long tulle neckline train
• Josie Johnson — Cinnamon satin above-the-knee dress with ivory tulle bow bodice tie
• Lauren Johnson — Pink cotton print sleeveless jumpsuit with magenta elastic waist detail
• Dayton Jons — Royal azure blue knee-length coat with hooded collar and floral lining
• Vanessa Peterson — Sage green chiffon homecoming dress with dyed-to-match applique detail
• Piper Pillard — Chambray blue multi-colored floral embroidered flared-leg jumpsuit
• Alexa Smith — Black knit cap sleeve crop top with cheetah print elastic waist skirt

PREMIER COMMUNICATIONS EVENT

This statewide two-day event offered 4‑H contests such as illustrated presentation, prepared speech, radio public service announcement, impromptu speech and video communication. These are the top placings.

PREPARED SPEECH CONTEST

• Intermediate division: Brooklynn Nelsen (2nd place), Callia Thompson (5th place)

RADIO PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT CONTEST 

• Intermediate division: Alexa Smith (1st place), Callia Thompson (3rd place), Amorita Payne (5th place)

IMPROMPTU SPEECH

• Intermediate division: Grace Tetzlaff (3rd place)

ILLUSTRATED PRESENTATION

• Senior division: Kamryn Wanser (5th place)
• Intermediate division: Andrea Bettenhausen (5th place)

DIGITAL VIDEO COMMUNICATION

• Intermediate division: Silas Pracheil (4th place)
• Junior division: Cora Pracheil (Top 5)

PREMIER ANIMAL SCIENCE EVENT

In this statewide two-day event, 4‑H’ers tested their skills in six animal science contests. Thank you Sarah Dilley for coaching the livestock teams. These are the top placings.

LIVESTOCK JUDGING CONTEST

• Senior division: Individually, Lilee Chevalier earned 10th place high overall in cattle.
  Intermediate division: as a team, Tenley Bauman, Grace Chevalier, Hannah Chevalier and Madalyn Chevalier earned 9th place high overall and 1st place high in reasons; 2nd place high overall in cattle and 9th place high overall in swine. Individually, Hannah Chevalier earned 5th place high in reasons and 7th place high overall in cattle; and Grace Chevalier earned 8th place high in reasons and 3rd place high overall in cattle. 
• Junior division: as a team, Corrine Byrne, Gracen Byrne and John Chevalier earned 5th place high overall and 5th place high in reasons; 3rd place high overall in cattle, 9th place high overall in sheep and goats and 5th place high overall in swine.

POULTRY JUDGING CONTEST

• Intermediate division: as a team, Grace Chevalier, Hannah Chevalier and Madalyn Chevalier earned 2nd place. Individually, Hannah Chevalier earned 5th place and Grace Chevalier earned 9th place.
• Junior division: Individually, John Chevalier earned 6th place.

LIVESTOCK SKILLATHON

• Intermediate division: as a team, Grace Chevalier, Hannah Chevalier, Madalyn Chevalier and John Chevalier earned 9th place.

ANIMAL WELFARE JUDGING

• Intermediate division: Individually, Tenley Bauman earned 2nd place.

COMPANION ANIMAL CHALLENGE 

• Intermediate Cat Skillathon: Elizabeth Hilkemann (Reserve Champion)
• Senior Photography: Jocelyn Schmoll (Grand Champion)
• Intermediate Photography: Elizabeth Hilkemann (Grand Champion)
• Junior Photography: Josiah Schmoll (Grand Champion), Noah Schmoll (Reserve Champion) 
• Intermediate Art: Brooklynn Nelsen (Grand Champion)

NEBRASKA 4‑H AT STATE FAIR

The Nebraska State Fair is the premier opportunity for 4‑H members to showcase what they have learned and worked on throughout the year. These are the top placings and special recognitions.

• Reese Dell — Dog: Champion Obedience Beginning Novice Division A
• May Frain — Rabbit: Best of Breed; Rabbit: 3rd Overall Best of Show
• Ethan Gabel — Science & Technology Award: Premier Science Award
• Kyson Gana — Beef: Champion Angus Breeding Heifer; Beef: Reserve Champion Shorthorn Breeding Heifer; Beef: 3rd Place Champion Breeding Heifer
• Elizabeth Hilkemann — Judging Contests: Tree ID: Intermediate, 1st Place; Judging Contests: Weed & Grass ID: Intermediate, 4th Place; Science & Technology Special Award: Premier Science Award
• Sophie Huenink — Dog: Junior Showmanship, 1st Place; Dog: Skillathon, 1st Place
• Noah Jelinek — Poultry: Senior Showmanship, 1st Place
• Clara Johnson — Sheep: Reserve Champion Division II: Hampshire Market Lambs
• Lauren Johnson — Meat Goat: Champion Division III: Market Goat
• Blake Mueller — Beef: Reserve Champion Charolais Breeding Heifer
• Micah Mueller — Beef: Champion Composite Charolais Breeding Heifer
• Catherine Polk — Judging Contests: Horticulture: Senior, 5th Place; Judging Contests: Tree ID: Senior, 4th Place
• Josephine Polk — Judging Contests: Tree ID: Intermediate, 4th Place 
• Maria Polk — Judging Contests: Horticulture: Intermediate, 3rd Place; Judging Contests: Tree ID: Intermediate, 3rd Place
• Benedict Rauert — Poultry: Junior Showmanship, 3rd Place; Rabbit: Junior Showmanship, 3rd Place
• Lawrence Rauert — Rabbit: Senior Showmanship, 2nd Place
• Ava Schepers — Dog: Junior Showmanship, 3rd Place
• Paige Schepers — Dog: Intermediate Showmanship, 1st Place; Dog: Skillathon, 2nd Place; Dog: Champion Obedience Beginning Novice Division B
• Joseph Wesely — Judging Contests: Horticulture: Junior, 3rd Place; Judging Contests: Tree ID: Junior, 5th Place
• Kaily Wesely — Judging Contests: Horticulture: Senior, 2nd Place; Judging Contests: Tree ID: Senior, 3rd Place

DESIGN GALLERY SELECTIONS

About 20 Visual Arts, Design Decisions, Clothing or Fashion Show exhibits were selected to be displayed in the 4‑H Design Gallery at State Fair.

• Piper Pillard (A Stitch Further - Dress or Formal) — STEAM Clothing 3
• Kamryn Wanser (Accessory - Original Made from Glass) — Design Decisions

PHOTOGRAPHY SPECIAL SELECTIONS

Selected for display during the following year on UNL East Campus.

• Elizabeth Hilkemann (Kitten Sniffing Flower) — Animal Science Department
• Nettie Lunquist (Inside of Sculpture) — East Campus Visitors Center
• Tenley Bauman (Light Through Trees) — East Campus Visitors Center

VISUAL ARTS SPECIAL SELECTION

Selected for display during November and December 2024 on UNL East Campus.

• Evan Mittan-DeBuhr (Pencil Drawing of Light Bulb) — East Union Loft Gallery

LIVESTOCK ACHIEVEMENT PROGRAM

At the beginning of the 4‑H year, youth plan what to accomplish. At the end of the 4‑H year, they report on their completed accomplishments. 

• Piper Bauman — Rabbit Project Area, Junior
• Tenley Bauman — Rabbit and Dairy Goat Project Area, Intermediate
• May Frain — Rabbit Project Area, Senior
• Adelaide Metcalf — Rabbit Project Area, Junior

FINAL DRIVE

Top livestock exhibitors were invited to participate in the “Final Drive.” 

• Piper Bauman — Livestock Achievement
• Tenley Bauman — Livestock Achievement
• May Frain — Livestock Achievement
• Kyson Gana — Breeding Heifer
• Lauren Johnson — Meat Goat Market
• Adelaide Metcalf — Livestock Achievement

NEBRASKA 4‑H FED STEER CHALLENGE

Participants selected, purchased, exhibited, harvested and analyzed carcass data on a steer while networking with industry professionals. 

• Lilee Chevalier earned 3rd place for her record book

GOVERNOR’S AG EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Nebraska 4‑H Foundation’s Governor’s Agricultural Excellence Awards are sponsored by the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA). These $500 grants are to be used as described in the application form completed by the club. 

• Fusion 4‑H’ers, Lancaster County 4‑H Teen Council

NEBRASKA 4‑H SHOOTING SPORTS

Several 4‑H shooting sports competitions happen throughout the year, including archery, shotgun, bb gun, air pistol and air rifle. These are the youth who placed in the top 10.

ARCHERY INDOOR 

• Suzy Hanley — Fixed Head Long Stabilizer (FHLS) Young Adult 2nd place 
• Talin Abney-Cook — Bowhunter Freestyle (BHFS) Young Adult 7th place

ARCHERY OUTDOOR

• 3D TOURNAMENT: 
  • Adelaide Metcalf — Basic Bow (BB) Cub (C) 3rd place
• OUTDOOR 600 TARGET TOURNAMENT: 
  • Suzy Hanley — Olympic Recurve (OR) Young Adult (YA) 4th place; 
  • Adelaide Metcalf — Basic Bow (BB) Cub (C) 3rd place;
  • Kamryn Wanser — Olympic Recurve (OR) Young Adult (YA) 1st place;

SHOTGUN

• Intermediate Division: Owen Savicky — 5th place

NATIONAL HORTICULTURE CONTEST

The National Junior Horticulture Association conference was held in Lincoln in October. 

• Lancaster County 4‑H’ers Kaily Wesely and Catherine Polk were part of a four-member team which represented Nebraska in the Senior Horticulture Identification Contest and received 4th place. Individually, Kaily placed 4th and Catherine placed 16th.

NATIONAL 4‑H CONGRESS

National 4‑H Congress is a five-day educational experience held each November in Atlanta, Ga. and is the premiere leadership event for 4‑H’ers. In Nebraska, 11 youth were selected to attend based upon achievements listed in their 4‑H Achievement Application. 

• Ethan Gabel (Achievement Application was in the area of STEM)
• Morgan Gabel (Achievement Application was in the area of Healthy Living)

WESTERN NATIONAL ROUNDUP

This January, several Lancaster County 4‑H youth represented Nebraska at the 4‑H & FFA Western National Roundup in Denver, Colorado in the Horse Classic contests.

HORSE JUDGING

• Lancaster County Horse Judging team of Cayle Callahan, Shea Frink, Kayla Isaacs and Taeva Taylor (coached by Roger Bell) earned 4th in reasons, 3rd in performance, 5th in halter and 3rd high team overall. Cayle Callahan received 9th individual in halter. Kayla Isaacs received 6th individual in performance, 9th individual in reasons and 9th high individual overall. Taeva Taylor received 5th individual in performance and 7th high individual overall.

HIPPOLOGY

• Lancaster County 4‑H’ers Amelia Proffitt and Max Roberts were on the Lancaster/Saunders County Hippology Team which earned 3rd place in the judging phase. Max Roberts received champion individual in the horse judging phase. Ameila Proffitt received 6th individual in the horse judging phase.