Deadline for 4-H Record Books fast approaching

Each year 4-H members across America work hard to complete their Record Books.

In Adams County, 4-Hers learn to keep a planning calendar, learn to set goals (the commitment page), keep a journal of their activities and comments on what they have learned, complete a financial report, write a story that summarizes their 4-H activities for the year and maintain a permanent record that serves as a résumé of all of their years in 4-H. The skills learned in keeping Record Books last a lifetime.

The Record Books are also used to help determine Gold Medal Awards for Adams County 4-Hers. The Gold Medals are presented in recognition of outstanding work in a project area, not just an individual project.

For example a member who participates in “Bread Baking” one year and “Foods of the PNW” the next year would be eligible for the Foods and Nutrition Medal. The awards are based on growth in the project area, leadership, citizenship and community service.

4-H members who plan to enter Record Books at the Wheat Land Communities’ Fair must take completed books to the WSU Extension Office in Ritzville by 4 p.m. Aug. 15. Judges will evaluate books received after this date and will award participation ribbons.

Members who wish to apply for the annual County Gold Medal Awards need to fill out an application when they turn in their 4-H Record Books. Record books are judged prior to the fair and will be on display in the 4-H Department of the main exhibit building.

Evaluation to determine Gold Medal recipients is also done at this time. Gold Medal Awards are presented at the Achievement Program in October.

Tips on how to complete the Record Book are available from the WSU Extension office in the Adams County Courthouse.

Some 4-H clubs require their members to enter their record books.

Members need to check with their club leaders to learn what the club’s requirements are.

For further information contact Alice Weber at 349-2992 or the WSU Extension Office 659-3209.

In addition, entry forms for demonstrations and Fashion Review/My Favorite Outfit are due by Aug. 15.

More information is available in the Wheat Land Communities’ Fair Premium Book as well as by contacting Carla Jerue at (509) 235-8334 or the WSU Extension Office.