The event highlighted the achievements of individuals and clubs across Brown County, showcasing the values of leadership, service, and hands-on learning that define 4-H.

One focus of the celebration was record-keeping, a foundational element of the 4-H motto “Learn By Doing.”

Awards were presented to top scoring youth in each age category for their excellence in preparing their records. Hunter Kohn and Jade Dalluge of the Milford 4-H Club received the Sparkler Award for grades 3-5.

Aiden Schroeder, also of Milford, earned the Firecracker Award for grades 6-8, while Alex Schroeder, representing grades 9 and above, was honored with the Rocket Award.

Kylie Fischer of the North-West Wildflowers 4-H Club received the 4-H Citizenship award during the Brown County 4-H annual award celebration. Fischer organized a grain bin and farm safety training. Her initiative earned her recognition at both the County and State Fairs, and her efforts have already influenced safer practices among local farmers.

The Comfrey Comets 4-H Club was named Champion Club for Record Participation, with Sleepy Eye Wide Awakes and Stark Happy Hustlers recognized as Reserve Champions.

Creativity and community engagement were also celebrated through two special club awards. The Crazy Club Award, given for the most imaginative or silly learning moment, went to the Milford 4-H Club of Essig for organizing a competitive kickball game following their June meeting.

The 4-H Club of the Year was awarded to the Golden Rose Riders 4-H Club, recognized for their outstanding service in their local community and their strong involvement from both youth and volunteers.

The Outstanding Service Award was presented to Riverside Animal Clinic and Dr. Phil Gill. Dr. Gill was commended for his ongoing contributions during livestock check-ins at the County Fair and for sharing his expertise with youth during the annual Livestock Quality Assurance Training.

The Lilleodden family, members of the Milford and Bows & Triggers 4-H Clubs, received the 4-H Family of the Year Award for their work at the county fair 4-H food stand. Their efforts included not only volunteering but also making significant repairs and improvements to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.

Cora Mathiowetz of the Golden Rose Riders received the Junior Leadership Award for exemplifying the 4-H values of Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. She was nominated for stepping into a club officer role when needed and for her consistent leadership.

The 4-H Citizenship Award was presented to Kylie Fischer of the North-West Wildflowers 4-H Club. Fischer organized a grain bin and farm safety training that raised $5,000, with most of the funds donated to the Sleepy Eye Fire Department and Sleepy Eye Hockey Association. Her initiative earned her recognition at both the County and State Fairs, and her efforts have already influenced safer practices among local farmers.

Cora Mathiowetz of the Golden Rose Riders received the Junior Leadership Award for exemplifying the 4-H values of Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. She was nominated for stepping into a club officer role when needed and for her consistent leadership.

The highest youth honor, the 4-H Leadership Award, was awarded to Tyson Goold. of the Bows and Triggers 4-H Club. A first-generation member who joined just this year, Goold was praised for his enthusiasm, helpfulness, and commitment to 4-H. He regularly attends meetings, assists others, and even helped State Fair staff during livestock encampment cleanup. His attitude and energy have made a lasting impression on the 4-H community.

Minnesota 4-H Youth Development is available throughout Minnesota for youth beginning in Kindergarten. For local 4-H opportunities, contact the Brown County Extension Office at 507-794-7993 or mnext-brown@umn.edu.

The highest youth honor, the 4-H Leadership Award, was awarded to Tyson Goold. of the Bows and Triggers 4-H Club. Goold was praised for his enthusiasm, helpfulness, and commitment to 4-H.

From left to right: Lillian Brandes, Aiden Schroeder, Mckenzie Lilleodden of Milford 4-H Club of Essig hold the 4-H Crazy Club Award. This award is given to the most imaginative or silly learning moment. The award went to Milford 4-H Club of Essig for organizing a competitive kickball game following their June meeting.