4-H Newsletter
June 2026
June Newsletter Highlights
In this edition:
- Upcoming deadlines
- 4-H'ers Helping 4-H'ers
- Thomas County Dog Practice
- Summer 4-H Workshops
- CSA Fair Dates and Resources
- State Programming
Important Dates Coming Up
June 15-4-H Enrollment and YQCA Certificates Deadline
- It is time to enroll in 4-H! The enrollment deadline will be here before we know it! Sign up by June 15.
- Send your YQCA Certificates to the CSA office. Email us at CentralSandhills@unl.edu or drop them off at either office location.
July 1-Fair Entry Forms, and Animal ID Sheet Deadline
- All Entry Forms, Animal ID Sheets, Vaccination Forms, and Data Tags can be picked up at either office location or found at our website: CSA Website-Fair Resources
Horse Advancement Level Testing Due 1 Week Prior to Enrolled County Fair
Please make arrangements with our office to take the test. Study materials can be found here: Horsemanship Advancement
4-H'ers Helping 4-H'ers
The 4-H’ers Helping 4-H’ers project, led by the Nebraska 4-H Foundation, is devoted to helping 4-H members and their families in times of need. When disaster strikes, no matter how large or small, 4-H’ers Helping 4-H’ers will be there! Through generous donations made by 4-H families and friends, support is available to Nebraska 4-H families that have been affected by an emergency or disaster.
4-H’ers Helping 4-H’ers funds are available to any Nebraska 4-H family who has been impacted by a disaster. Major disasters might include flood, tornado, fire, or serious illness. Grants are limited to $100 for an individual and $500 for a family. There is no deadline to apply for support. Applications are accepted year-round and must be submitted electronically.
4-H’ers Helping 4-H’ers seeks contributions from 4-H members, 4-H families, 4-H alumni, and 4-H clubs and councils. Donations may be given to the Nebraska 4-H Foundation. 100% of your gift will be directed towards youth applicants within the 4-H’ers Helping 4-H’ers program!
4-H Dog Practice in Thomas County
4-H Dog Practice will be on Tuesdays throughout the summer from 5:30-7:00 at the Andersen Household (709 Main St, Thedford) and will be split evenly between agility, obedience and showmanship.
Follow the Thomas County 4-H Council Facebook page and contact Jacey Andersen at (402) 443-6174 for more information.
Brittney's Schedule
This time of year is very busy so my schedule is subject to change. If you would like to meet with me, please call or text me at 308-675-8539 and I will let you know my availability and location.
Check out the 2026 Fair Book!
The 2026 CSA Fair Book is now available on our website! Check out what's new this year and get a head start on your projects today!
2026 Central Sandhills Area 4-H Fair Book
Printed Fair Books are also available in the Thomas and Hooker County offices.
Grant County families, if you would like a printed copy of the Fair Book, please let me know and I will drop one off for you.
Family Handbooks
Are you new to 4-H or just wanting to learn more about the program? Pick up a 4-H Family Handbook at either of our office locations or email Brittney at bemerson4@unl.edu and she will send you a copy.
June 9-11th Workshops
Beginner Pillowcase
Ages: 8+, Clover Kids welcome for basic fabric/clothing decorating
Fee: $10
Date & Time: June 9, 1:00-3:00 p.m. MT
Location: Hooker County Library
Description: Stitch your own style in this fun, beginner-friendly sewing workshop for youth! Participants will learn basic sewing machine skills while creating a stylish pillowcase to take home. Along the way, they’ll explore simple construction techniques. No experience needed—just bring your creativity and get ready to sew something both practical and uniquely yours! Please bring your fabrics of choice and we will provide the rest!
Class Number: C220007L-Pillowcase
Rag Rug
Ages: 8+
Fee: $5
Date & Time: June 10, 9:30-11:00 a.m. CT
Location: Halsey Community Center
Description: Learn the art of turning old fabric into something beautiful and useful in this hands-on rag rug workshop for youth! Participants will explore basic weaving and braiding techniques while creating their own colorful, one-of-a-kind rugs from recycled materials. No experience needed, just come ready to create and have fun!
Class Number: C257007 Floor Covering
Yarn Art
Ages: 8+
Fee: $7
Date & Time: June 11, 2:00-3:00 p.m. MT
Location: Grant County Courthouse Meeting Room
Description: Get creative with color and texture in this fun summer youth workshop! Participants will design their own abstract yarn art, using vibrant strands to create unique patterns and eye-catching designs. Along the way, they’ll explore basic art concepts like composition and contrast while experimenting with different techniques in a relaxed, supportive environment. Perfect for all skill levels, this workshop encourages self-expression and sends everyone home with a one-of-a-kind masterpiece!
To Go Kit available for order
Class Number: C260011 Original Single Media Not Listed
June 16-18th Workshops
Mosiac Tray
Ages: 8+
Fee: $15
Date & Time: June 16, 1:30-3:00 p.m. MT
Location: Picnic tables behind HC Library
Description: Create something colorful and one-of-a-kind in this hands-on mosaic tray workshop for youth! Participants will design and assemble their own decorative tray using tiles, glass pieces, and grout while learning basic mosaic techniques and pattern design. Along the way, they’ll build creativity, patience, and an eye for detail.
To Go Kits available for order
Class Number: C257016 Accessory - Original Made from Glass
Dish Garden
Ages: 8+ for dish garden, 5-7 for clover kid activity
Fee: $7
Date & Time: June 17, 2:00-3:00 p.m. CT
Location: Thedford Park Shelter
Description: Get your hands in the dirt and create your own miniature garden! In this fun, beginner-friendly workshop, youth will design and plant a beautiful dish garden using a variety of small plants, soil, and decorative elements. Participants will learn basic plant care, how to arrange plants for both health and style, and tips for keeping their garden thriving at home. Please bring your own dish. Clover Kids welcome, bring your own pot!
To Go Kit Available for order
Class Number: G770063 Dish Garden
Wooden Wall Decor
Ages: 5+, Clover Kids bring a helper
Fee: $10
Date & Time: June 18, 2:00-3:00 p.m. MT
Location: Grant County Courthouse Meeting Room
Description: Participants will create their own custom wooden letter décor, designing and decorating a letter of their choice with patterns, and creative embellishments. Perfect for all skill levels, this workshop lets creativity shine while sending everyone home with a unique piece to display!
To Go Kit available for order
Class Number: C257013 Accessory - 3D
June 23-24th Workshops
American Door Wreath
Ages: 5+, Clover Kids bring a helper
Fee: $7
Date & Time: June 23, 2:00-3:00 p.m. MT
Location: Hooker County Library
Description: Celebrate creativity and a historic milestone in this hands-on summer youth workshop! In honor of America’s 250th birthday, participants will design and craft their own red, white, and blue door wreath using scrap materials and bandanas. Along the way, they’ll learn basic crafting techniques, explore color and design, and express their creativity in a supportive, social environment.
To Go Kit available for order
Class Number: C257013 Accessory - 3D
Cupcake Decorating
Ages: 5+, Clover Kids bring a helper
Fee: $10
Date & Time: June 24, 1:00-3:00 p.m. CT
Location: Upper Loup NRD Meeting Room
Description: Sweeten your summer with this fun and creative cupcake decorating workshop! Participants will learn basic decorating techniques as they frost, pipe, and top their own delicious cupcakes with colorful icing and fun decorations. Along the way, they’ll explore creativity, and enjoy a relaxed, hands-on environment. Perfect for all skill levels, this workshop lets everyone take home (and taste!) their own beautifully decorated treats.
Class Number: E420003L Four decorated cupcakes
If you are interested in showing poultry this year or just want to learn what it's all about, join us on Sunday, June 28th for a 4-H Poultry Showmanship Workshop. All Central Sandhills Area youth are welcome to attend either session. You will not have to bring your own birds to attend. This is a free opportunity to learn how to handle your birds and walk through the steps of showing poultry. Please fill out the quick sign up form so we have a headcount for the day.
- Session 1: Thomas County Fairgrounds @ 1:00 p.m. CT
- Session 2: Hooker County Fairgrounds @ 3:00 p.m. MT
2026 CSA Fair Dates
Thomas County Fair (CT)
- July 20 - Dog Show @ 8:00 AM
- July 20 - Style Revue Judging @ 3:00 PM
- July 21 - Horse Show @ 8:30 AM
- July 22 - Small Animal Show @ 8:00 AM
- July 23 - Static Check-In @ 9:00 Am
- July 25 - Livestock Show @ 8:00 AM
- July 25 - Fashion Show @ 4:00 PM
- July 25 - Auction (Silent 4:00-6:00 PM) Live @ 5:00 PM
Blaine County Fair (CT)
- July 21 - Horse Show w/TC @8:30 AM
- July 28 - Static Entries @9:00
- July 28 - Style Revue Judging After Static Entries
- July 30 - Livestock Show 9:00 AM
- July 30 - Small Animal Show 11:00 AM
Hooker County Fair (MT)
- July 27 - Small Animal @ 8:00 AM
- July 27 - Style Revue Judging @ 1:00 PM
- July 28- Horse Show @ 8:00 AM
- July 30 - Static Entries @ 8:00 AM
- August 1 - Livestock Show @ 8:00 AM
Grant County Fair (MT)
- July 29 - Style Revue Judging @ 2:30 PM (Exhibitor Only)
- July 29 - Fashion Show 5:00 PM (Tentative to After Style Revue Judging)
- August 5 - Horse Show @ 8:30 AM
- August 6 - Small Animal - Dog @ 9:00 AM
- August 6 - Small Animal @10:30
- August 6 - Small Animal - Poultry 12:00 PM Noon
- August 7 - Static Entries @ 9:00 AM (Exhibitor Only)
- August 8 - Livestock Show @ 7:30 AM Check-In)
- August 8 - Auction at 1:00 PM
Printed Animal ID Sheets, Vaccination Forms, Data Tags and Entry Forms are all available in the Thomas and Hooker County offices for pick up.
State Programming
Holt County 4-H Invitational Shoot
Holt County 4-H is excited to share this opportunity with you! They will be hosting their annual 4-H Invitational Shoot on June 6-7 in Chambers, NE! Please see the updates that they have made for this year:
- Expanded to a Two-Day Event
The invitational will now take place over two days: - Saturday, June 6
- Sunday, June 7
When registering, please be sure to select the correct day when choosing your line times.
Register online: https://forms.gle/WSmTQLNNFeX8tryG9
Registration deadline: June 1, 2026 (no day-of registrations will be accepted)
- Camping Available
With the addition of a second day, camping will now be offered. - Flat fee of $15 (covers one or two nights)
- All campers must sign the Holt County Fair Board Camper Waiver upon arrival
Reserve your campsite: https://forms.gle/YFg33CXBq5ND3jk5A
- Invitational T-Shirts Available
Event apparel is now available for purchase: https://hcssinvite26.itemorder.com/shop/home/
- Partner Shoot Information
Page 5 of the flyer includes full details about the Partner Shoot. We’re excited to offer all eight disciplines this year and look forward to continued growth of this event.
Partner Shoot Registration: https://forms.gle/5vCu2bas5uuNLh1q6
Full event details can be found in the attached flyer. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Join this FUN one-day camp to explore agriculture and technology through the creation of virtual reality (VR) tours. Participants will learn about local agriculture as well as Hawaii and Alaska, create tours, and publish their work for public viewing. You will also have the chance to immerse yourself in local agriculture and ask questions of ag professionals while learning about both VR Tour creation and innovative agricultural and research practices.
WHO: Youth going into grades 7th grade and up!
COST: $25 (includes lunch, snacks, and supplies for all activities)
WHEN: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
WHERE:
May 29th at Eastern NE Research Extension, Education Center (Mead)
June 1st at West Central Research Extension, Education Center (North Platte)
June 2nd at Panhandle Research Extension, Education Center (Scottsbluff)
June 3rd at US Meat Animal Research Center (Clay Center)
June 4th at Haskell Ag Lab (Concord)
Registration submitted and payment postmarked by May 26th
Register at https://go.unl.edu/ag360 or use QR Code
Space is limited to 40 participants at each site.
Questions? Reach out to Brandy at (402) 759-3712 or brandy.vandewalle@unl.edu or Sarah at (308) 772-3311 or spaisley3@unl.edu
Livestock Achievement
We are excited to announce the fifth year of the Nebraska 4-H Livestock Achievement Program! This program provides an additional opportunity for enrolled 4-H livestock project youth to strengthen their knowledge and leadership skills across all aspects of livestock projects, including selection, production, leadership, and exhibition.
The program recognizes Members of Excellence in the following livestock project areas: beef, sheep, meat goat, swine, dairy cattle, dairy goat, rabbit, and poultry.
The Livestock Achievement Program consists of three levels designed to support age-appropriate growth and learning. Youth plan and report a broad range of project-related accomplishments by selecting goals from an approved list, with each accomplishment carrying a designated point value.
- Juniors (ages 8–9): Complete 75 points. Submit pictures, posters, presentations, and other learning activities to earn the distinction of Junior Member of Excellence.
- Intermediates (ages 10–13): Complete 100 points of activities to earn Intermediate Member of Excellence.
- Seniors (ages 14–18): Complete 150 points of activities to earn Senior Member of Excellence.
Plan and Report forms, available on the program webpage, provide examples of eligible accomplishments. Members may also propose their own project-related accomplishments with approval from their local Extension educator.
- Applications are due June 15 and must be submitted through the online application form.
- Plan and Reports and Project Records are due August 1 and must be submitted via the online completion form.
Youth who complete the program and earn Member of Excellence recognition will be recognized during the Grand Drive during 4-H weekend at the Nebraska State Fair.
For more information and to apply, visit: https://go.unl.edu/lap
Contacts:
Cole Meador – cmeador2@unl.edu
Brett Kreifels – brett.kreifels@unl.edu
Kelly Schole – kschole2@unl.edu
Ashley Benes – ashley.benes@unl.edu
Heartland Triple Crown Livestock Judging Series
Get ready for an unforgettable three-day livestock judging experience! The Heartland Triple Crown Livestock Judging Series is coming June 17–19, 2026, bringing together youth from across the region for competition and learning. This three-day event is open to all states.
Participants will take part in 10 placing classes, enjoy a clinic, and compete for awards in each age division and species. With events hosted in Columbus, Bladen, and Nelson, Nebraska, each day offers something unique—plus fun evening activities, including a BBQ after-party and awards.
Whether you're a seasoned judge or new to the arena, this is the perfect opportunity to sharpen your skills and meet fellow competitors.
📅 June 17–19, 2026
📍 Columbus • Bladen • Nelson, Nebraska
🔗 Registration details available at: https://go.unl.edu/lj26
Join us for three exciting days of livestock evaluation, learning, and community. We can’t wait to see you there!
40th Annual Papio Valley Livestock Show-June 27th
Stay Connected with 4-H and Extension News!
Please be sure to like us on Facebook at Nebraska Extension in the Central Sandhills
Don't forget to visit our Extension website at: Nebraska Extension in the Sandhills
PLEASE SHARE WITH US YOUR NEWS so it can be included in our newsletters! Forward any 4-H news, events, or activities to CentralSandhills@unl.edu.
Mailing Address: PO Box 148 - Thedford, NE 69166
Email:
Brittney Walker: bemerson4@unl.edu
Terri Thomas: tthomas39@unl.edu
Location: 503 Main Street, Thedford, NE, USA
Phone:
CSA Office: (308)645-2267
Brittney Walker: (308)675-8539