Stormont County 4-H volunteers work tirelessly to ensure members of the organization have the opportunity to participate in a variety of clubs, trips and other activities throughout the year. Those in attendance at the awards evening on Jan. 4 were thanked for their support for SC 4-H. Thompson Goddard Photo

FINCH – There were close to 100 people attending the 2024 Stormont County (SC) 4-H Awards evening on Sat., Jan. 4 at the Finch Community Centre. As 4-H members, volunteers, family members, friends and invited guests gathered for the event, there was an opportunity to enjoy light refreshments while socializing.

The event was organized by Alyssa Waldroff and Jill Robinson, with Lyndsay Berry, the 4-H Ontario Volunteer Support Coordinator for Region 2, and Jennifer Waldroff a member of the 4-H Ontario Board of Directors.

Emcee Alyssa Waldroff welcomed all to the evening, and throughout the event thanked the sponsors of Stormont County 4-H, as well as the leaders, volunteers and members for their work throughout the year. The 4-H Pledge was led by the five 4-H members who were aging out of the organization this year, Dougie Robinson, Grace Buiting, Haleigh-Jo tePlate, Terry Ennis and Nathan Stewart.

After expressing thanks to the Stormont Federation of Agriculture, Alyssa invited Lyndsay Berry to address those in attendance. “As you reflect on this 4-H season and the activities and events that have come and gone, I hope that you do so with new memories made, new and old friendships kindled, and enthusiasm built for exciting activities to come.” commented Berry during her address.

She offered congratulations to the award winners and all members and thanked volunteers for their dedication. “Every mile driven, every snack baked, every calf attended to, and every kind word of encouragement spoken is appreciate more than we will ever be able to express. 4-H does not happen without all of you!” concluded Berry.

There were many awards presented to volunteers and SC 4-H members throughout the event, with Jill Robinson ensuring the presentations ran smoothly. This year there were 30 Cloverbuds who received recognition for their work over the year, as well as several first year 4-H members being recognized as well. Provincial seals are presented in recognition of 4-H clubs completed, with Haleigh-Jo tePlate receiving a seal for 84, 90, 96 and 100 clubs completed during her time with Stormont County 4-H.

tePlate, who is an Ontario 4-H Ambassador as well as Stormont County Queen of the Furrow, thanked everyone for attending the event and the continued support of Stormont County 4-H on behalf of the Stormont County Plowmen’s Association. As the evening drew to a close Leadership and Volunteer Awards were presented with Suzanna Bretzler and Molly McDonald receiving recognition for 10 years service, Joe Krol recognized for his 30 years of service and Betty Morrow for 40 years of service to Stormont County 4-H.

Notes of thanks to the Stormont Dairy Producers for their donation of chocolate milk, to the Finch Recreation Committee for donating the use of the Community Hall and to Embrun Co-op for the grant received by Stormont County 4-H which was used to provide the treats and refreshments enjoyed during the event.