Newman 4-H members have been busy showcasing their leadership, community service and agricultural knowledge through a series of events and recognitions this fall.

Stanislaus County 4-H Ambassador Michelle Ebert recently addressed the Ceres City Council as a guest speaker, sharing how the 4-H program brings communities together and helps youth build responsibility, leadership and teamwork through hands-on projects. Ebert told the council, “4-H builds confidence and encourages us to give back to our community, which makes a lasting difference for everyone involved.”

Following her presentation, the council adopted a National 4-H Week Proclamation, recognizing the positive impact 4-H has on youth throughout Stanislaus County.

Newman 4-H members and leaders were honored for their achievements at the Annual Stanislaus County Achievement Night, held at the County Agricultural Center on Cornucopia Way in Modesto. The event was planned and hosted by the County Ambassadors, with Olivia Casey delivering the welcome address and Ebert serving as emcee.

Primary members Julian Leon and Brian Casey received certificates for completing their Primary Record Books. Bryan Berbereia earned a medal in the Intermediate division for his Foods and Nutrition project, while Addison Martins received a medal for her senior-level cavy project. Isabell Hayes was named County Winner in Journalism and Reporting, and Olivia Casey earned County Winner honors in Cavies and Small Animals.

Juliana Berbereia was recognized for five years of service as a project leader, and longtime leader Debbie Eggers was honored for more than 40 years of dedication to the program. Eggers received the Roberta Fae Ellis Memorial Award for her service and commitment to 4-H.

Newman 4-H members also participated in Ag Adventure Day at the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds in Turlock, where more than 1,200 third graders from the Turlock School District explored interactive agricultural exhibits. Students learned about livestock, farm equipment, seed planting, and crop management.

Members from the Modesto Junior College Sheep and Swine internship brought animals and answered questions, while Turlock Eagles, Westport and Newman 4-H Club members showcased beef, rabbits, cavies and poultry. Ebert shared her expertise on rabbit and cavy care, and Casey taught students how to plant a “living necklace”—a wheat seed project that allows participants to watch germination through a clear plastic pouch worn around the neck.

Casey and Ebert plan to present the “living necklace” project to schools and 4-H clubs across Stanislaus and Merced counties throughout the year.

Newman 4-H Reporter Isabell Hayes contributed to this report.