4-H celebrates youth, leaders at annual banquet
By Julia Merulla
It was a packed house at the American Legion Hall on Thursday, Nov. 29, as the Wyoming County 4-H program held its 2012 4-H Recognition Night.
At the start of the evening, those in attendance received some welcome news: Wyoming County officially has the largest 4-H program in the state of New York, with over 900 members.
4-H community educator Tanya Nickerson said, “We had always had a suspicion (that we were the largest), but when we found that out today, we were very excited.”
Town of Sheldon Supervisor John Knab praised the 4-H program in his welcoming remarks.
“The Board of Supervisors is really proud of what you're doing,” he said, adding that the board considers 4-H to be one of the most important programs it sponsors.
Dozens of youth and adults received awards throughout the evening.
The 2012 Leader of the Year Award went to Janet Berkemeier, of Wyoming and leader of the 3+2 4-H Club. Eric and Ethan Stroud nominated Berkemeier, who was presented the award by 4-H community educator Roxanne Dueppengiesser.
“Janet has been a leader for 36 years, and this really symbolizes what she means to our county,” Dueppengiesser said. “It's all about the kids for Janet.”
Eric and Ethan Stroud gave a speech about Berkemeier, recounting their experiences with her as their 4-H leader.
“Janet, thank you for all that you do for all the kids in 4-H Club,” Eric Stroud said. “We all think you are very special and really deserve this award.”
Memorial award winners were selected by the presenting family. 4-H leaders and members were also recognized for their commitment to the organization, and 4-H youth were called up to be awarded county medals for their efforts in their respective categories.
This year's male Outstanding Wyoming County 4-H Member was Corey Davis of Pavilion. Corey is an 11-year member of 4-H and has participated in the areas of home improvement, dairy, beef, and meat animal dairy and beef steers. He has also served on the Livestock Advisory Committee and the 4-H Program Committee.
This year's female Outstanding Wyoming County 4-H Member was Megan George of Strykersville. She has been part of the 4-H dairy, family and consumer sciences, and leadership programs for nine years. Her artwork has been awarded purple rosettes at the state fair. She has been on Dairy Bowl and has been part of dairy judging, among other involvements.
The following people also received awards:
