Newsletter October-December 2026

Fall has arrived! While the warm, dry weather may be a little out of character for our region, the crisp mornings and earlier sunsets remind us that a new season is upon us.

Fall is always an exciting time in 4-H. After a busy fair season, everyone has had a chance to recharge, and our clubs, leaders, and volunteers are ready to kick off another fantastic 4-H year. We encourage members and families to step outside their comfort zones and try something new this year. Do you show beef cattle? Consider adding a photography project and capturing those favorite animal moments through the lens. Love baking? Explore a STEM project and discover the science behind your favorite recipes. Work with chickens? Try an art project and create a sculpture inspired by the different parts of an egg. The possibilities are endless, and we can’t wait to see the creativity, curiosity, and passion you bring this year!

Before you dive in, don’t forget that this newsletter includes several interactive features designed to make it easy to use. Take advantage of the clickable Table of Contents, built-in translation options, and convenient navigation buttons to quickly find the information you need.

Here's to a wonderful year of learning, leadership, friendship, and fun in 4-H!

Three teams from Clackamas County will be representing Oregon at national 4-H competitions in Louisville, KY this November. They earned this honor by being a top placing team at the 2026 Oregon 4-H Spring Classic. They are fundraising to offset the costs of their participation including airfare, lodging, meals, and educational tours in the area.

The Clackamas County Poultry Judging and Avian Quiz Bowl team, Collin, Harlow, Ellie and Ethan won the Oregon State Avian Quiz bowl competition. Avian Quiz bowl is a double-elimination tournament-style format. It encourages youth to expand their knowledge of avian facts, and become proficient in poultry management, and related subjects.

In November the team is the team going to the National 4-H Poultry and Egg Conference in Louisville, KY. Donations can be made online or by writing a check to CC4HLA with a note that it's for the poultry judging team.

Six Clackamas County members will represent Oregon at the Eastern National 4-H Roundup. The Horse Communications Team members are Charlotte Hudson (Individual Presentation), Marketa Pechanec and Auden Rice (Team Presentation) and Sydney Smith (Public Speaking). The Horse Bowl Team members are Kaydence Brinsfield and Evelyn Grzemkowski. Their next fundraiser event is Saturday October 24 at Coastal Farm and Ranch in Oregon City.

Are you interested in becoming a 4-H leader (volunteer) and want to know more about the requirements? The volunteer screening process includes - each step should be completed before the next one:

1. Fill out and application and complete a self-interview, supplying three references
2. Complete a background check
3. Attend a state-wide online orientation
4. Attend a county club leader training

It’s the time of year that prospective 4-H members contact our office and ask for clubs in their area. If you said on your Annual 4-H Club Registration that you are open to new members, we will have them call or email you. Remember, it is important to respond promptly! New families need to hear from you, even if your club has not yet begun meeting for the year. When you don’t call back, families get discouraged and often decide that they don’t want to join 4-H after all. If your club is full, please let us know. Contact Jessica Inman.

🗓️November 21, 2026, 6:30pm

📍4-H Hall, Clackamas County Fairgrounds

Everyone is invited to the annual 4-H Member and Leader Awards & Recognition Night. Our theme this year is “Find out who you are and do it on purpose” and it’s going to be out of this world! It will be held at 6:30 pm on Saturday, November 21, at the Clackamas County Fair & Event Center in Canby. All 4-H members, leaders, families, and friends are invited.

This is when we honor and recognize 4-H members who have turned in their record books and earned special awards, new junior leaders, and recent graduates who were 4-H members for at least nine years. In addition, we recognize 4-H leaders who have earned service awards for leading 4-H for 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 45 years. There are also special leader recognition and Friends of 4-H awards. Award recipients will receive an email in November reminding them to attend. Everyone is invited!

🗓️March 7 2027

Is your club looking for a fun and meaningful way to give back?

Participating clubs will team up with local nonprofits, learn about their mission, and create much-needed items that support their work. Why make 10 items alone when we can make 100 together? In March all participating clubs will gather at the Fairgrounds to set up stations and assemble even more items—powered by community volunteers and shared service. Applications to participate will be available soon.

Let’s make a bigger impact, together!

All members enrolled and exhibiting in 4-H at the County Fair in an animal science project are required to have completed the training and have a YQCA Certificate by June 1. YQCA certificates are valid for three years. Members who have a certificate on file issued in 2025 and 2026 do not need to repeat it until fall 2027.

Livestock members must take the full training. Youth can choose to complete the training online at YQCA or sign up for one of three opportunities to take the in-person training that will be offered in 2027:

🗓️ February 22 (Monday) 7:00-8:30 pm

🗓️ March 31 (Wednesday) 7:00-8:30 pm

🗓️ April 29 (Thursday) 7:00-8:30 pm

Horse, Dog, and Small Animal Members: Can either take the full YQCA training (in person or online) or attend one of the Oregon 4-H species-specific web trainings that will be offered in the Winter and Spring via ZOOM.

These two publications were recently updated and contain useful information for new and potential 4-H families. Share them with your friends and encourage them to get involved!

• Facts about 4-H (4-H 0244) A basic “welcome to 4-H” guide for new families/volunteers.
• Starting a 4-H Club (4-H 0272L) Outlines the steps and responsibilities of forming a 4-H club.
• Opportunities for 4-H’ers (4-H 0275L) A guide for teens, scholarships, and travel.

Cloverbuds is the program for all 4-H members who are aged 5–8 as of September 1 of the enrollment year. Because of their age and stage of development, there are some special requirements about what these youngsters can and cannot do in 4-H. Cloverbuds can work with rabbits, cavies (guinea pigs), poultry, pigeons, and pets (cats, or herptiles (reptiles and amphibians)) in 4-H, as long as they also explore other projects during the year. They can explore most non-animal projects. They may participate in non-competitive activities.

Cloverbuds do not participate in competitive activities. They also cannot do shooting sports or work with most animals. Cloverbuds members can have no direct contact with horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, llamas, goats, or dogs in any 4-H activity. It is fine for Cloverbuds to learn about these animals with their club. However, they may not handle them in any way while with their 4-H club or leader. Please contact the Extension office for more information about our project curricula for Cloverbuds.

Program Dollars are a special type of award given to the highest-placing record books, presentations, educational displays, and special recognition from a project committee. The CC4HA holds the dollars in the member's name. Members with Program Dollars can use them for 4-H fees, camps, events, enrollments, resource books/publications, etc. Youth who still have Program Dollars available to them when they graduate can request the funds for college/continuing their education. For more information, go to the Awards webpage or contact CC4HA treasurer Paula Means or Jan Williams.

If you are asked to sign something on behalf of your 4-H club, STOP. Certain agreements and contracts must be signed by OSU and not by volunteers.

OSU signs if the agreement names OSU or its affiliate (aka, a 4-H club) as the party to the contract. Common examples are rental agreement forms between your 4-H club and the owner of the facility, parade entry releases, and contracts between vendors and 4-H advisory committees where one signature is expected for the whole club or committee. If you have an agreement that needs OSU’s signature, send it to Wendy or Jan and tell us the purpose of the agreement. We will work with OSU to get it signed and returned. This process normally takes 1-2 weeks.

Individual releases do not have to go through OSU. For example, a property owner might ask each person who visits their property to sign a release form. In this case, each person (or their guardian if they are under 18) will sign the form themselves.

Join us in partnering with these companies to support 4-H!

Wondering which person you need to talk to at the Extension office? Here are some guidelines about which staff members can answer your questions.

If the Extension office must close due to inclement weather, we will post it on our main website and Facebook page. Any in-person meetings or programs associated with 4-H youth development will be canceled unless the staff and committee members can reach the expected participants to notify them otherwise. We will also share cancellation information on our Clackamas County 4-H Oregon Facebook page.

The Extension office and phone lines will be closed on the following dates:

• November 11: Veterans Day
• November 26-27: Thanksgiving
• December 14: Staff Meeting
• December 25: Christmas Day
• January 1: New Year’s Day
• January 18: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Please plan accordingly. A drop-box is available for you to use after hours. It is located at our back door.

All volunteers and members need to re-enroll for the 2026-2027 year. Our office will continue to send you communications through December 31, 2026. Club activities will not be authorized by OSU unless the club has begun the re-enrollment process, nor will individuals receive 4-H newsletters and information until they re-enroll.

The deadlines to participate in fair and/or tournaments and contests:

• December 10 - ALL Shooting Sports members
• January 10 - ALL Horse Project members, ALL Dog Project members, ALL Re-enrolling members
• April 1 - NEW members to Clackamas County 4-H

Enrollments and project additions are accepted throughout the year. However, members or projects added after the deadline will NOT be fair-eligible.

The annual participation fee is $45 per member if received by January 10, 2027, or $50 per member if received after that date. There is an additional $15 fee for youth who live in Multnomah County. Our complete enrollment procedures and details are available online and at the Extension office.

Enrollment and payments will be online for all members and leaders. The online enrollment system will be open for the 2026-2027 year in early October. As usual, each club must register and will need an approved leader enrollment before any member enrollments can be approved.

If you can’t access the online system, you can fill out paper enrollment packets instead. They will be available on our website in early October or contact the Extension office and we will send you copies.

Membership in Oregon 4-H is based on the member’s age as of September 1 of the project year. That is the member’s “4-H age” for the entire year. The age breakdowns for 4-H participation are:

Age 5–8 = Cloverbud: Birthdate September 2, 2017 – September 1, 2021

Age 9–11 = Junior: Birthdate September 2, 2014 – September 1, 2017

Age 12–14 = Intermediate: Birthdate September 2, 2011 – September 1, 2014

Age 15–18 = Senior: Birthdate September 2, 2007 – September 1, 2011 (* see exception below)

For example, if Harry was 11 on September 1, 2026, he would be enrolled for the 2026-2027 4-H year as a Junior with a 4-H age of 11. At some point in the year, he will turn 12, but her 4-H age and level will not change until the next project year.

If members are 18 and under on September 1 and have already graduated from high school, they may enroll in 4-H. However, some activities are not available to graduates. We encourage graduates to transition into an adult volunteer role instead of remaining a youth participant.

* Young people aged 19 on September 1 are not eligible to enroll in 4-H unless they are still in high school. Those still eligible to enroll should be aware that they might be too old to participate in national events and the qualifiers for those events. Youth with developmental disabilities may continue to enroll through the year in which they turn 21.

Watch for these changes when you enroll this year:

The Participant Code of Conduct has been updated. The adult code of conduct has been renamed to emphasize that it applies to parents and other adults.

The US Census Bureau has combined race and ethnicity into a single question. Our enrollment forms have those new categories.

Participants in 4-H and Juntos can enroll for both programs using the same enrollment form.

Accommodation requests can be made to a faculty member, during enrollment or registration, or through a formal process. We suggest that you start by contacting the faculty member and documenting your needs during enrollment.

The Youth Safety Training for adult volunteers has been updated for 2026-27. Also, we can not process volunteer enrollments if your Criminal History Check (CHC) is close to the expiration date.

The 4-H Club program is designed for youth to learn in a group environment. Research shows that the emphasis on belonging and mentorship by an adult outside the family are the most impactful parts of the program. “Independent” membership is far from ideal and requires a special exception. The faculty are reviewing the responses in the annual re-enrollment survey (sent to adult leaders). Those in small groups or who have previously been enrolled as individuals may be required to move to club status.

We LOVE sharing the amazing things that 4-H youth are doing. We enjoy featuring them in articles, sending fair results to local newspapers, taking photos of award winners with the award donor, and promoting 4-H using pictures and stories of them and their projects.

The way you let us know your preferences about media permissions depends on which enrollment method you use:

Paper Enrollments automatically give us permission to record and use your image (video, audio, photo, etc.). If you would like to withhold this permission, please complete the Photo Opt Out Release form and turn it in to the Extension office. If you agree to give us permission, skip this form.

In 4HOnline, you’ll complete the Media Opt Out Release section of the consents page. Please read this section carefully. The first check box (which starts with “I hearby confirm…”) is only to be used if you DO NOT want to give us permission to record and use your image. If you are okay with us recording and using your image, please select the second box, which reads “Does not apply…”. Regardless of which one you select, you’ll enter your name to certify your response.

We always respect our members' right to privacy and use discretion in what information is shared on social media and with news outlets. OSU procedures require us to ask for media permission each year. Your contact information is always kept private and never shared with outside organizations.

Have your members graduated, or are you taking a break from club leadership? We urge you to continue to enroll as a Resource Leader. You will receive communications and qualify for leader recognition and awards. You will also be covered by tort liability insurance in case someone twists your arm into helping out!

Re-enroll online by following the instructions that will be emailed to you when 4HOnline opens in October. If you need paper enrollment forms instead, please contact the Extension office. We encourage you to enroll each year, even if you are doing very little 4-H work. If you let your enrollment lapse for even one year, you must re-apply and complete a new background check before you may enroll again.

Are you passionate about 4-H and want to help shape the future of the program? The Clackamas County 4-H Association (CC4HA) Board has open positions to fill this fall to meet our bylaws and maintain our tax-exempt status with the Oregon 4-H Foundation.

The primary purpose of the CC4HA is to provide guidance to Extension faculty and staff regarding the direction of the 4-H program and mobilize resources in support of 4-H.

We welcome community members who want to make a difference! You do not need to be a current 4-H member or leader. Parents, alumni, community members, and 4-H partners are all encouraged to consider serving.

Positions are available for both adults and older youth members:

• Adult board members serve a three-year term.
• Youth board members serve a one-year term.

There is currently no limit on the number of terms an individual may serve.

Meetings: The board meets on the second Monday of most months at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. The next meeting is scheduled for November 9. All meetings are open to the public.

If you are interested in helping support and grow the Clackamas County 4-H program through the CC4HA Board, please contact Jan Williams at janaleen.williams@oregonstate.edu

Congratulations to our Master Showmanship winners at Clackamas County Fair. For Small Animals The Champion and Reserve Champion Showmen from Rabbit, Cavy, Poultry, and Pigeons in junior,

intermediate and senior age divisions will compete against the others in their age division. Each member will have a turn showing each small animal species, and a Champion and Reserve Champion will be chosen from those competitors.

Small Animals:

Champion Junior Showman, Champion Intermediate Showman, and Champion Senior Showman from each livestock project area (beef, sheep, swine, dairy cattle, pygmy goat, meat goat, dairy goat, fiber goat, and llama/alpaca) competes for the Master Showmanship Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion Junior, Intermediate, and Senior Showman honor. Each exhibitor shows every species excluding the one that they are representing.

Livestock:

A huge round of thanks goes to the volunteers who packed and delivered exhibits to the State Fair: Aylen Aycock, Karter Childs, Barb Hicks, Crystal, Evelyn, Huxley, Kenzington, Olivia and Quincy Hymas, Loyal Hjelmervik, Mel Jeffrey, Audrey Markowski, Barrett and Sarah Senn, Susan Simpson and Diane Sinclair. Thank you Alesia Bowie for help moving items back to the Extension Office. Another thank you to volunteers who helped get exhibits back to families after State Fair: Mel Jeffrey and Kristin Wilson. We could not have done it without you!

Congratulations to the members who received state-wide recognition at Summer Conference in June!

Congratulations to our Clackamas County 4-H members who achieved high honors at the Oregon State Fair this year! For static exhibits, a medallion may be awarded for an exceptional exhibit demonstrating excellence in all facets of the judging criteria. For Animal Science, Champion and Reserve Champion designations are awarded. For Horse and Dog, Medallions may be awarded in each class based upon superior performance.

Exhibit Hall Medallion Winners:

Animal Science Medallion and Champion Winners:

Congratulations to Melina Reigert, who earned a spot on the 2027 Oregon 4-H FCS Team at State Fair!

The competition challenged participants to identify 25 items from each of three 4-H project areas:

Foods & Nutrition, Sewing & Textiles, and Home Interiors. Participants also competed in two judging contests focused on consumer decision-making and applying critical-thinking skills to real-world consumer situations.

Melina’s hard work and knowledge earned her a place on the Oregon team, which will represent our state at the National 4-H FCS Contest in San Antonio, Texas, in January 2027.

Congratulations, Melina! We’re excited to see where this opportunity takes you!

The Clackamas County 4-H Association (CC4HA) would like to extend a HUGE “THANK YOU!” to the many individuals, families, clubs, committees, and businesses who helped make this our biggest fundraiser ever!

Thanks to the generosity of our donors and the hard work of our volunteers, we raised more than $4,200 for CC4HA programs, awards, and scholarships!

Volunteers and 4-H clubs donated baskets and supplies, sold raffle tickets at the County Fair, and gave their time to help make the raffle a success. We are incredibly grateful for everyone who contributed.

Our 2026 Raffle Basket Donors - Twenty-four beautiful raffle baskets were donated by:

• All About Livestock 4-H Club
• Austin Family
• Cindy Carlson
• Boring Beef 4-H Club
• Clover Ridge 4-H Club
• Green Leaves 4-H Club
• Andrea Hagley
• Barbara Hicks
• Jolly Ranchers 4-H Club & Brandie Bailey
• Fred & Cheryl Keithan
• Molalla River 4-H Club
• Mt. Hood Critters 4-H Club
• Muddy Boots 4-H Club
• Pioneer Ridge Goat 4-H Club
• Scrambled Animals 4-H Club
• Tealeaf Designs
• Three Rivers 4-H Club
• Unfocused Furry Friends 4-H Club
• Wilco
• HEARTH Advisory Committee

A special shout-out and THANK YOU to Mel Jeffrey for creating this year’s beautiful quilt!

And a big thank-you to Ashley Kline for managing the raffle setup and ticket drawing.

We couldn’t have done it without all of you! Thank you for supporting Clackamas County 4-H and helping provide opportunities for our youth.

… that the Young Farmers & Ranchers program is open to ag producers aged 16 to 35? Their mission is to recruit, network, and educate young farmers and ranchers to represent the Oregon Farm Bureau while creating opportunities for community outreach, bridging the gap between generations, and sustaining the future of farming and ranching in Oregon. This group, in conjunction with the Clackamas County Farm Bureau, has once again supported our 4-H youth at the County Fair this year! The Clackamas County Farm Bureau funded showmanship awards and Cloverbud prizes for 4-H youth exhibitors! Please take a moment to thank them for their generous donation and support of our programs. Their address is Clackamas County Farm Bureau, PO Box 961 Canby OR 97013.

Are you ready to train like a real emergency response team? Clackamas County 4-H is launching its very first Youth Emergency Team for teens ages 13–18!

This action-packed program teaches real-world emergency response skills through hands-on training, teamwork challenges, and a final disaster simulation drill where you’ll put your skills to the test.

You’ll Learn Skills Like:

• Fire Suppression
• Search & Rescue
• First Aid & Hands-Only CPR
• Animal Handling & Emergency Care
• Leadership & Teamwork
• Emergency Preparedness & Response
• And more!

Training Details:

• One or two Sundays each month
• Occasional week night
• November - February
• Held at the Clackamas Extension Office or specific onsite training locations

What Makes It Awesome?

• Train using the FEMA-approved Teen CERT curriculum
• Work alongside community emergency response professionals
• Build confidence, leadership, and problem-solving skills
• Make new friends and be part of a team
• Complete a huge hands-on emergency simulation exercise
• Earn an official uniform AND a backpack of emergency supplies upon graduation!

This isn’t just a class — it’s a chance to gain life-saving skills, explore future careers, and make a difference in your community. Are you interested? Limited space available. For more information, contact Jan or Katie for details.

🗓️ Application Due November 29

Oregon 4-H is sponsoring delegations to attend the National 4-H Conference. Families contribute $200-$500. Donations to Oregon 4-H cover the remainder of the costs.

National 4-H Conference

April 9-14, 2027

Open to youth ages 15-18 with strong leadership and service involvement.

Watch for applications in November, apply by November 29.

The application will include parts of the 4-H Resume and essay questions.

The Oregon 4-H Program is offering Online Babysitter Training for youth ages 10 and up! Youth do not need to be enrolled in 4-H to participate.

This interactive training includes four online classes held on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons:

🗓️January 12, 14, 19, & 21 from 4:30-6pm

Youth who complete all four classes will receive an official Babysitter Safety Certificate. Cost: $10

Must register by January 4. Families with youth in this age group will receive an email with the registration link when sign-up opens. Space is limited, so be sure to watch your email and register early!

Contact tracy.wilson@oregonstate.edu with questions.

📅January 15-18, 2027

📍Redmond

Mark your calendars for this fun opportunity! Leadership retreats are for older youth who want to expand their skills and get more out of 4-H. Registration opens November 2.

Oregon teens ages 13–18 (at time of travel) can explore new cultures in Costa Rica, Japan, Norway, South Korea, or Taiwan through a summer abroad program. International Exchange trips create lifelong connections and unforgettable memories.

Applications and details for each trip are on the state 4-H International Exchange page. Please contact the State Coordinator Jon Gandy, 541-460-7683, with questions. Applications and scholarships requests must be submitted before December 1.

Interested in hosting a family this summer? Japanese delegates have come to experience Oregon with 4-H families nearly every summer since 1973! This is a unique and special experience for them and for us. They will arrive in July for a short-term homestay (3 ½ weeks) to experience American life. Applications to be a host family due by March 1st.

More than 1,000 colleges and universities accept the Common Application. Oregon State has put together a website with helpful information, videos, and tips for completing this form. Visit the AXS Companion website to get an edge on college admissions.

Fall is here making it the most important time of the year for graduating Seniors! Let us help you keep an eye on a couple of important key dates:

• October 1 – FAFSA/ORSAA Applications open. You can access the FAFSA application here: FAFSA® Application | Federal Student Aid / ORSAA here: FAFSA/ORSAA Pre-Filter Tool | Office of Student Access and Completion
• November 1 – OSAC Scholarships and Oregon Promise open. You can access it here: OSAC Scholarship Application | Oregon Student Aid
• November 1 – Scholarships for Dreamers open! Check out www.TheDream.US for more information.
• November 1-2 – Early bird admission deadlines for some Universities. Check individual Universities you may have in mind.

Check in with your school counselors, visit your college and career centers at school and make sure you are on track to not only graduate but also on track for the post grad pathway you have been working toward!

From November to April, Oregon State 4-H Shooting Sports conducts mail-in tournaments for each of the shooting disciplines. Members who participate and earn a red or blue ribbon qualify to compete in the State Contest held in June.

2026 Clackamas County participants at the State Contest:

• Pistol: Wade Ballini, Dustin Peterson, Emily Peterson, John Paul Stafford, Tayla Whitten
• Rifle: Wade Ballini (Sr. Champion), Dustin Peterson, Emily Peterson, John Paul Stafford, Tayla Whitten
• Shotgun: Wade Ballini, Ryder Hougak, Kyle Kline, Dustin Peterson, Emily Peterson, John Paul Stafford
• Archery: Wade Ballini, Baylen Borntrager, Ethan Cannon Ziolko, Achilles Castenada, Aubrey Fraiser, Mason Heilman, Rye Heilman, Harlee Hougak (Barebow Sr. Champion), Ryder Hougak, Adrian Kline, Kyle Kline, Zoe Kline, Axyl Grabeel, Gabi Kruger, Hank Parker, Anabella Peetz (Barebow Sr. Reserve Champion), Dustin Peterson, Emily Peterson (Barebow Int. Champion), Eben Reel, Calvin Roy, River Sadewasser, Barrett Senn, Calvin Swanson, Jack Swanson, Charlie Warthen, Tayla Whitten, Cashton Williams

All 4-H Shooting Sports members are active in Shooting Sports clubs that are supervised by certified 4-H Shooting Sports Instructors. Approved adult 4-H leaders interested in becoming 4-H Shooting Sports Certified Instructors must contact Jan Williams for more information.

Juntos youth and families, fall is here and with it, Juntos programming Kick Offs! Fall is one of the most important times in our programming.

Here is what to look out for:

Juntos programming is a series of workshops held in collaboration with partnering high schools across the county for Spanish speaking families to expand their knowledge and understanding of their youth’s higher educational options. Families and youth learn about financial aid opportunities, scholarships, admissions processes, and so much more!

Juntos cohorts will begin across the county starting this October!

• Wilsonville High School will kick off on October 6, 2026.
• Rex Putnam High School on October 5, 2026.
• Adrienne Nelson and Clackamas High schools will start in Winter!

Putting into practice our Juntos learning!

FAFSA/ORSAA opens Oct 1st , 2026 for the graduating class of 2027. Juntos will be hosting our yearly Spanish FAFSA/ORSAA workshops, where families and youth get to learn how FAFSA/ORSAA works as well as receive support in submitting the application!

FAFSA/ORSAA workshop dates:

• Rex Putnam High School – October 19th
• Clackamas High School – November 4th
• Adrienne C. Nelson High School – November 5th

Check out the “Applying for college?” section below for more important senior dates!

EXCITING NEWS!

Juntos/4-H will be transitioning to using a new joint registration form. Families will no longer have to fill out two registrations if wanting to participate in both programs rather just fill one out, and we will take care of the rest.

Keep an eye out and join our Juntos/4-H Club activities/workshops hosted at your different schools!

Not sure how it works or have questions about any of the Juntos information please reach out to Maria Velador Gonzalez at veladrom@oregonstate.edu or 971.316.5191.

The Clackamas County 4-H office continually receives calls from families wanting to participate in the Dog project, but we do not have many clubs or leaders in this project area. The 4-H Dog project committee is looking for adult volunteer leaders – it’s a bonus if you have a good knowledge of dogs and their care and training. Training and support are available. If you have any questions or interest in volunteering, teaching, or supporting a Dog 4-H club, contact Jessica.

As we begin the 2026–2027 4-H enrollment year, why not spend some time practicing with your dog at home and working on your 4-H Dog Advancements?

The Clackamas County 4-H Dog Committee created three levels of advancement—Bronze, Silver, and Gold—to help you build your skills and knowledge while having fun with your dog.

Working on Dog Advancements can:

• Make your 4-H dog project more interesting and rewarding.
• Help you learn more about dogs, dog care, obedience, companionship, showing your dog, and the responsibilities of dog ownership.
• Help you develop greater skills and confidence when working with dogs.
• Provide you with new and enjoyable experiences.
• Allow you to advance at a pace that matches your ability, interests, and enthusiasm.

Ready to get started? Information and advancement forms can be found on the Clackamas County 4-H Dogs webpage.

Horse leaders – as the holidays approach, please be SURE you get everyone enrolled! Members must be enrolled by January 10 to show at the Horse Fair (and before participating in any winter horse competitions). We encourage club contact leaders to log in to 4-H Online to check your club list in December and early January so you can make sure everyone you thought was enrolled really is. Contact the Extension office if you have any questions.

Congratulations to Rachel Mattecheck, the $2,000 Haney Memorial College scholarship recipient! Applicants were asked to write a short essay about someone who inspires them. The alternate is Finnley Barnett.

This scholarship is funded by an endowment established in memory of Jessica Haney, a Clackamas County 4-H horse member who passed away in 2011. Additional donations to the fund honor her brother Jacob Haney, a 4-H alumnus who died in 2019.

Registration information for these events will be sent to all clubs this fall. You don’t even need a horse to participate! Guidelines for all the events can be found on the state website. The highest-placing Senior and Intermediate members will be invited to compete at the Spring Classic. Remember, new and returning members must be enrolled for 2026-2027 before the competition.

4-H Horse Judging and Hippology contests: Demonstrate your horse knowledge in these fun contests. In Horse Judging, you get to judge classes of horses and present your reasons for your placing. Hippology combines judging classes (but not the reasons) and horse knowledge tests. The contests overlap and are on Sunday, December 6, at the Fairgrounds. If you have questions about the contests, contact Brandy Angell at 503-860-7246.

Horse Bowl contest: Mark your calendars! The Horse Bowl will be on January 9 at the Fairgrounds. Our Horse Bowl Coordinators are Christina Stamey (503-351-2204) and Denise Knight (503-984-4624).

Animal Science Communications contest: Our speaking contests are held on the same day as the Horse Bowl, January 9. Yes, you can do both! Contact Jaime Hudson at 503-516-7427 for more information.

The Clackamas County 4-H Horse Handbook is always available on the Clackamas County 4-H website. New clubs can request a print copy from the Extension office. The goal of the Handbook is to gather the most requested information in one place. It is a mix of rules and procedures plus helpful tips. It is a “living” document that we intend to update frequently; the most current version will be the one posted online. If you have ideas for additions or changes, please bring them up at a Horse Advisory meeting.

To continue to bring youth the high-quality program they deserve, the Clackamas County 4-H Horse Program tracks MINIMUM PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS. Make sure you have read pages 43-46 of the Clackamas County 4-H Horse Handbook and plan these activities into your club’s schedule. We encourage you to keep track of your club’s progress towards these goals. Members and clubs who do not meet their minimum participation requirements may not be eligible for Champion awards, Medallion classes, State Fair, or Ranch Horse State.

Members are expected to engage in learning, service, and leadership activities throughout the year. Watch for a form this spring for members to self-report their activities.

Upcoming member opportunities:

• Horse Judging, Hippology, a Communications contest, and Horse Bowl
• Participate in a club community service project

The volunteer time requirements involve all the club’s adult volunteers – leaders, family members, and supporters. Danielle Donnelly is our volunteer coordinator and is tracking volunteer time. You can reach her through the Band app.

Upcoming volunteer time opportunities:

• Volunteer at Horse Judging, Hippology, a Communications contest, and Horse Bowl.

We welcome your questions about activities and tracking during Horse Advisory meetings.

The Clackamas County 4-H Horse Program has a helmet policy that is broader than the one stated in the state 4-H materials. Approved SEI/ASTM helmets must be worn by all 4-H members at all 4-H meetings and activities while working on the ground, driving, or riding a horse. Also, we require ADULTS to wear helmets when riding or driving during any 4-H activity. This includes leaders, parents, and others and applies to fairs, clinics, club meetings, and social events.

Do you love horses, making friends, and being part of something bigger? The Clackamas County Jr. Horse Advisory is the perfect place for you! Our group is all about teamwork, fun, and leadership. Members help plan exciting events at the county fair, organize fundraisers that support prizes and activities, and create lasting memories together. Whether it’s brainstorming new ideas for the horse program, or cheering each other on in the arena, there’s always something fun to do. For more information contact Toni Palmateer at 971-219-1182.

Meeting of Superintendents, Leaders, parents and youth members who have an interest in the Clackamas County 4-H Livestock project.

This committee is responsible for planning and implementing educational opportunities and events, fundraising for awards and scholarships, and management of the 4-H Livestock area at Clackamas County Fair.

Meetings are held on the first Thursday of March, May, July, and November, at the Extension Office in Oregon City. The September meeting is frequently held on the second Thursday of the month at the Fairgrounds

Leaders, parents, and youth members are invited to join us on the third Tuesday of the month for Small Animal Advisory meetings. We discuss and plan upcoming events, share project information, plan fairs, and look for ways to educate volunteers and youth. Nominations are currently open for officers and coordinators to help lead the committee and to guide county events. Our next meeting is November 17 at 7:00 pm and will be offered in a hybrid format (in person at the Extension annex with the option of joining on Zoom).

NEW this year, the Pet 4-H project is expanding! Youth enrolled in the Pet 4-H project, as well as Cloverbuds can participate in cats, herptiles, hedgehogs, sugar gliders or “exotic” pets. Look for more information this year about learning opportunities and Pet Fair.

Aren't sure if your pet qualifies? Reach out and we will help you evaluate their eligibility!

Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease and Avian Influenza are diseases that we will be dealing with for a long time. Review the symptoms of these diseases with your members and teach them about biosecurity. Prevent contact between animals and sanitize hands and surfaces. Report suspicious deaths, including wild animal deaths, to the Oregon Department of Agriculture.

Remember to minimize contact BETWEEN SPECIES at 4-H meetings as well. Because chickens are particularly susceptible to HPAI, we suggest having waterfowl at a separate meeting from chickens or having them practice last after the chickens have been returned to their carriers.

🗓️February 15, 2027 – 7pm

📍Extension Annex (In-person) or Online (via Zoom)

Watch your email for your reminder! We strongly urge all HEARTH clubs to send at least one leader and/or parent to support youth success in HEARTH fair project entries. Adult participation also allows youth (in your club) to be eligible to receive awards and higher placings at the Clackamas County 4-H Fair in the HEARTH project classes.

Topics include:

• Upcoming events and workshops
• HEARTH participation requirement updates
• HEARTH Fair project exhibit essentials
• Leader training and workshops for additional success
• Project-specific information and educational resources provided by HEARTH County Fair Superintendents

For more information, contact Mel Jeffrey at 503-329-0503. Stay up-to-date with our Facebook page: Hearth Advisory, Clackamas County 4-H.

Start preparing to fulfill the HEARTH Excel requirements for the 2026-2027 enrollment year. Remember: all HEARTH youth and leaders are expected to participate in one or more events, meetings, and trainings. Some are required, and all are tracked and recorded, for youth to qualify for County Fair awards and State Fair eligibility. All volunteer time must be completed by June 1. Information on minimum attendance and service hour guidelines can be found on the HEARTH webpage.

November 2026 Calendar

Date Event Location Time

9 CC4HA Board meeting Zoom 7:00 - 9:00 pm

10 Metro Awards & Recognition Committee meeting call for location 7:00 - 9:00 pm

11 Veteran’s Day – office closed

11 Horse Advisory meeting Annex and Zoom 7:00 - 9:00 pm

12 Ambassador Team meeting Annex 7:00 - 9:00 pm

15 Fall Fest HEARTH Activity Day Horning Hall 1:00 - 4:00 pm

16 HEARTH Advisory meeting Annex and Zoom 7:00 - 9:00 pm

17 New Volunteer Orientation online 6:00 - 7:30 pm

17 Small Animal Advisory meeting Annex and Zoom 7:00 - 9:00 pm

21 Awards & Recognition Night Fairgrounds 6:30 - 9:00 pm

26-27 Thanksgiving observed – office closed

27-Dec. 1 National 4-H Congress Atlanta, GA

December 2026 Calendar

Date Event Location Time

1 Articles DUE for 4-H Newsletter Extension office

1 Applications DUE for International Exchange

1 Applications DUE for National 4-H Conference

6 Horse Judging & Hippology Contests Fairgrounds 8:30 am - 6:00 pm

10 Shooting Sports enrollment deadline Extension office

Applies to members who want to participate in mail-in shoots & state tournament

10 Ambassador Team meeting Annex 7:00 - 9:00 pm

14 Office closed – all-staff meeting

17 Club Leader Training Extension annex 9:00 - 11:00 am

17 Club Leader Training Extension annex 7:00 - 9:00 pm

15 New Volunteer Orientation online 6:00 - 7:30 pm

25 Christmas – office closed