Fun runs wild

Dozens of 4-H youth participants and their families got a chance on Sunday, Oct. 4, to appreciate all they accomplished over the course of the last year at the Stark-Billings County NDSU Extension office and recognize the organization’s hundreds of members. The event also recognized “the hard work, dedication, growth, and achievements of our 4-H members and leaders,” according to a press release, which touted the more than 200 current members of the local organization.

“It’s very important for students to get involved early and stay involved with 4-H just so they can get that desire or the understanding at a young age, so that they continue to grow in that area,” said Marilyn Larsen, an extension agent involved with family and community wellness at the Stark-Billings County NDSU office. “We don’t just focus on agriculture. Among the other benefits to students are public speaking, and it makes good leaders, decision-makers and problem-solvers. They have to be able to prioritize things, like when it comes to achievement days. They need to know that you can’t wait until the night before to get your project done.”

Over the course of the 2025-26 4-H calendar of events, 160 exhibitors participated in the group’s “achievement days,” with almost 1,300 exhibits entered in June. At the North Dakota State Fair, 52 exhibitors represented Stark-Billings County, with 226 individual exhibits on-site during the event.

During Sunday’s ceremonies, Edith Olson was named the Outstanding Young Member for the Stark-Billings County Chapter, along with younger male member Easton NeVill.

Meanwhile, the North Dakota 4-H Key Club award, which is “designed to encourage the growth of 4-H participants and recognize youth who demonstrate outstanding leadership and citizenship within their club and county 4-H program,” is given to members age 16 and older who earn that recognition while displaying individual excellence in leadership responsibilities, project accomplishments, personal development, sharing 4-H knowledge and skills, and club and community citizenship.

That award — which any recipient may receive only once during their time in 4-H — went to Carley Bullinger, who also is a standout Trinity High School track and cross-country athlete and student.

During Sunday’s activities, 4-H members also were treated to a pizza party and were able to swim and have fun at the West River Community Center after the ceremony concluded.

Students across the state are currently enjoying 4-H Week, which lasts from Oct. 4-10 this year, and the theme in 2026 is “Rooted and Ready.” Students in the club wore green on Monday, Oct. 5, and it was reported that North Dakota Gov. Kelly Armstrong would announce a proclamation sometime during the festivities and celebrations.

“Agriculture is much bigger than production agriculture, and 4-H helps young people see themselves in every part of that amazing industry,” said Leigh Ann Skurupey, who is the assistant director of the NDSU Extension 4-H Youth Development Program in Fargo. “Through 4-H, youth can explore everything from animal and plant science to technology, engineering, communication, business and skilled trades.

“For example, our 4-H Trades Camp introduces youth to hands-on career pathways such as welding and carpentry, helping them recognize that there are many ways to build a career in and around agriculture.”

Skurupey also works as the department chairperson for agriculture and family education.

In addition, many chapters across the state and country will be celebrating Thankful Thursday on Oct. 8, “to recognize all 4-H’ers who are doing good and making a positive impact by helping their communities and beyond.” All these activities allude to an abundance of good works contributed by 4-H students during each calendar year.

“Our 4-H students make friends not only in this area but throughout the state, and if they go on national trips, they make friends in other parts of the United States,” Larsen added.

For more information about the 4-H Club and all of its activities, please keep reading the Billings County Pioneer and/or visit the main website at www.ndsu.edu/extension/extension-county-offices/stark-billings-county/stark-billings-4-h.