November 4-H 4-U

November 4, 2025 4-H 4-U Newsletter, 4-H News

Table of Contents

Important Dates to Remember

  • November 15: 2026 National Trips Application deadline
  • November 28 – December 14: Tractor Supply Paper Clover Promotion
  • December 17: Snowball Launchers at Bangor Public Library
  • December 31: 4-H Re-enrollment Deadline
  • December 31: Club Audits

County 4-H News

Dinovember at Patten Veterans’ Memorial Library

Join us on November 15th at 2 PM for Dinovember, a fun dinosaur-themed event at Veterans’ Memorial Library! Emily will be hosting a hands-on fossil dig scene craft, using pasta, paper, and glue to create their own prehistoric adventure. There will be other activities from other organizations to enjoy as well. It’s a great chance to explore creativity, learn about dinosaurs, and have some crafty fun—don’t miss it!

Tractor Supply Paper Clover Promotion

The Fall Tractor Supply Company 4-H Paper Clover Campaign is coming up November 28–December 14! This nationwide event helps raise support for 4-H programs—and it’s a great opportunity to promote 4-H right here in our community. We encourage members, clubs, and volunteers to stop by your local Tractor Supply store to share what 4-H means to you and help spread the word.

If you plan to participate, please let your club leader and county 4-H staff know when and where you’ll be helping, so we can stay connected and support your efforts.

Remember, participating in the Paper Clover Campaign helps qualify you for scholarships through the County Leaders’ Association—so mark your calendars and join in the fun!

Snowball Launchers at Bangor Public Library

Get ready for some chilly fun on December 17th at 4 PM at Bangor Public Library! Join us for a Winter STEAM activity where kids will build their own snowball launchers. Experiment with design, test your launcher, and see whose snowball flies the farthest! It’s a hands-on way to explore science, engineering, and creativity this winter—perfect for curious minds of all ages.

Penobscot County Leaders’ Association 4-H Socks with a Purpose Fundraisergreen and white flyer with examples of socks being sold for Penobscot county 4-H fundraiser

If you have not heard, we’re partnering with Bloom for Good for a fun and cozy way to support our 4-H community! Bloom for Good helps youth organizations like 4-H raise funds through custom socks that support leadership, education, and agricultural advocacy. Proceeds will go to our Penobscot County 4-H Leaders’ Association, which helps fund scholarships and other educational opportunities for youth in our county.

Participation in a county fundraiser is a part of the scholarship eligibility requirements, so this is a great chance for youth and clubs to get involved.

You can help by sharing our Facebook post, hanging up flyers, or spreading the word in your clubs, schools, and communities. Every pair of socks sold helps our 4-H members grow, learn, and lead! Please let Wendy or Emily know if you have any questions or need us to forward the flyers to you.

Tri-County 4-H Sampler – Animal Scienceyouth standing by 4-H animal picture displaya volunteer showing t youth a brown rabbit

The final session of the Tri-County 4-H Sampler focused on Animal Science, giving youth a hands-on opportunity to interact with rabbits and learn from experienced 4-H members and volunteers. Volunteers from Somerset County brought their rabbits to share with attendees. Youth were given the opportunity to pet and interact with the rabbits. 

Penobscot County youth, Logan S., from Penobscot Livestock 4-H Club, along with volunteer Amanda S., spoke about their journeys in 4-H animal projects. Their stories showcased the dedication, responsibility, and joy that come with raising and showing animals. It was a fun and inspiring way to close out the six-part series!

Halloween Party at Millinocket Memorial Library

On Friday, October 24th, Penobscot County 4-H brought a little science magic to the Millinocket Memorial Library’s festive celebration! Youth and families joined in two hands-on STEM activities led by Emily, exploring chemical reactions using everyday ingredients like baking soda and vinegar. From bubbling cauldrons to fizzy surprises, curious minds got a chance to experiment, learn, and laugh. Thanks to everyone who stopped by to make science part of their spooky fun!

4-H Awards Night Dessert Winning Recipe – Dessert Winner: Adam B.

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars

  • Author: Sally McKenney
  •  Prep Time: 25 minutes
  •  Cook Time: 45 minutes
  •  Total Time: 3 hours, 20 minutesyouth handing a certificate to older youth at awards night
  •  Yield: 12-16 bars

Baking apple pie as bars is so much easier! 

Ingredients

Shortbread Crust

  • 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)

Apple Filling

  • 2 large apples, peeled and thinly sliced (1/4 inch thick)*
  • 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmegyouth high fiving a youth at awards night

Streusel

  • 1/2 cup (43g) old-fashioned whole rolled oats
  • 1/3 cup (70g) packed light or dark brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup (31g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
  • 1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • homemade salted caramel or store-bought caramel sauce

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C). Line the bottom and sides of an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper leaving enough overhang on all sides. Set aside.
  • Make the crust: Stir the melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla, and salt together in a medium bowl. Add the flour and stir until everything is combined. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15 minutes and then remove from the oven. (As the crust bakes, you can prepare the filling and streusel.)
  • Make the apple filling: Combine the sliced apples, flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg together in a large bowl until all of the apples are evenly coated. Set aside.
  • Make the streusel: Whisk the oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour together in a medium bowl. Cut in the chilled butter with a pastry blender or two forks (or even with your hands) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
  • Turn the oven up to 350°F (177°C). Evenly layer the apples on top of the warm crust. It will look like there are too many apple slices, so layer them tightly and press them down to fit. Sprinkle the apple layer with streusel and bake for 30–35 minutes or until the streusel is golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight). Lift the foil or parchment out of the pan using the overhang on the sides and cut into bars. I usually cut them into 16 smaller bars, but you can cut them into 12 larger bars. Once cut, drizzle some salted caramel sauce on top of each. These apple pie bars can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or even cold.

Club News

Penobscot Valley Homeschool Adventurers 4-H Clubtop view of colorful beads made into shapes

At their October meeting, members of PVHA got creative by making bead pets with colorful pony beads and preparing for their upcoming officer elections.

After the meeting, the group headed to the University Trails for a nature walk adventure! Youth explored the outdoors while completing a nature bingo card, collecting interesting items to share and discuss with one another.

It was a great mix of creativity, leadership preparation, and outdoor fun!

The next club meeting will be Thursday, November 13th at 1-3 pm at the 4-H Science Center, where will be focusing on chemistry and electing officers.

State 4-H News

UMaine Extension Publications & Resources for Individuals and Organizations Impacted by the Government Shutdown/Lack of SNAP Benefits

Extension Websites

Congratulations to the Maine Equine Team!

September 18th-21st, 2025, Maine sent eight 4-H youth delegates to the Big E on the equestrian team.  Each member had a chance to compete in riding classes like equitation, pleasure, discipline rail, and in-hand fitting and showmanship (and more!).  A favorite each year has been the costume class, as well as gaming classes, such as arena racing and barrel racing. Participants also compete in a general knowledge and horse judging contest. We are so proud of each rider and teen leader who represented Maine, and very competitively placed against the other New England State teams.  Congratulations to Anna P (Knox/Lincoln), Madison E (Penobscot), Molly L (And/Sag), Ruby D (And/Sag), Liz B (And/Sag), Lola V (And/Sag), Dorothy J (And/Sag), Lucy B (Franklin). If you are interested in learning more about the Maine 4-H Equine Team, please reach out to Tara Marble- tara.marble@maine.edu for more information!

Apply Now: Ignite by 4-H 2026

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community and eager to learn alongside 4-H youth from across the country? Ignite by 4-H 2026 is your chance to grow as a leader, deepen your knowledge in an area that excites you, and make your mark on the future of 4-H in Maine.

We’re seeking motivated Maine 4-H youth (ages 14–18) to represent our state at the Ignite by 4-H Summit in Washington, D.C. Delegates will:

  •  Work in a focus area groupwhite circle with the words ignite in it with colorful rays
  •  Participate in planning meetings
  • Attend the national summit
  • Collaborate to create a resource for younger Maine 4-Hers

Track Options & Positions Available (apply for one track; rank your top two choices)

  •  Agriscience
  •  Animal Science
  • Community Activators
  •  Healthy Living
  • STEM
  • Citizenship Washington Focus (CWF)

Applications are due by November 15, 2025. Apply Online. Applicants must be enrolled in 4-H and between 14–18 at the time of the trip.

4-H National Trip Applications are Open

Exciting news! Applications are now open for the 2026 4-H National Trips, featuring 4-H Conference and 4-H Congress. These events offer incredible opportunities for leadership development and national networking. Any Maine 4-H Youth, ages 14 to 18 is eligible to apply. Applicants must be current Maine 4-H members at the time of application and the time of the actual trip.

  • 4-H Conference: April 10 – 15, 2026 in Washington DC
  •  4-H Congress: November 27 – December 1, 2026 in Georgia

Find out more and apply online by November 15, 2025.

Market Beef at Fryeburg Fair

The 2026 Maine 4-H Intent to Sell a Market Beef Project at Fryeburg Fair is now available for eligible youth.  The animal must be owned and in the youth’s possession, and the youth must be enrolled in their county by December 31, 2025.  More information and the form are available on the Maine 4-H Beef page.  Online forms must be submitted, and paper copies must be postmarked by January 6, 2026.

4-H Fall Artificial Intelligence (AI) Challenge

The 4-H AI in Agriculture Challenge invites youth to explore how artificial intelligence can solve real-world agricultural problems. Participants will identify a challenge within the agriculture industry and design an innovative AI-based solution. Students will showcase how technology can enhance the future of farming. This challenge empowers youth to think critically, apply STEM concepts, and imagine a better agricultural future powered by AI.

The challenge is currently open through November 15, 2025. Find out more and get started at AI Challenge by 4-H.

4-H Volunteer Corner: Your corner for connection, tips and tricks

Spotting Sparks in Action:

Does a young person light up when talking about animals, robotics, or art? Watch where they go “above and beyond.” Sparks often emerge where curiosity and excitement intersect. Here are FIVE TIPS to help you spot a youth spark:
Notice when a young person lights up/shows joy and positive energy towards something.
Talk to a young person about what excites them (What do they love to do in their spare time? Why? How does doing what you love make you feel?)
Listen carefully for ways to support a young person.
Help youth find ways to practice their spark.
Attend games, performances, public demonstrations, and animal shows.extended arms with hands on top of each other in a circle

4-H Volunteer Opportunities Calendar:

We have SO many great 4-H volunteer opportunities available this year! You can find our calendar of events here – scroll to the bottom of the page to subscribe to the calendar and never miss upcoming events, workshops, and more!

4-H Volunteer Huddle:

Come to the sideline for a quick “gather-learn-discuss” and then get back into the game of 4-H. A variety of topics will help you improve your strategy- you pick which ones interest you! We meet on the first Friday of each month from 12:00-12:30 pm via Zoom. Whether you are an experienced 4-H volunteer or just getting started, there’s something for everyone. We’d love to see you there! No registration required!
Nov. 7- Getting Started with 4-H Market Animals
Dec. 5- Delegating/Asking parents and other adults to help

Join from PC, Mac, Linux, iOS or Android:
maine.zoom.us/j/82015703524?pwd=QkT05bDbaaDIeYAQ8aGUd4eco5c6Rd.1
Password: volunteer

Resource Spotlight
  • Podcast lover? Check out 4-H Volunteer Ventures! These 30-minute episodes examine the fun, but sometimes confusing role of the 4-H volunteer. To gain some tips and tricks to help you balance the many responsibilities in volunteer, personal, and work life, listen to this episode Balancing the Volunteer Life Special thanks to our 4-H friends at Rutgers University for sharing these episodes!
  • Working with 4-H youth and livestock? Check out our new Animal Health Hub! Brought to you by our UMaine Extension Livestock Team, it is a space to find livestock health bulletins, news/disease updates, and opportunities, such as special events that qualify participants for FREE disease testing at our Veterinary Diagnostic Lab. Go to Cooperative Extension: Livestock Animal Health Hub for more information.

Penobscot County 4-H Leaders’ Association

Penobscot County 4-H Leaders’ Association Meeting Minutes  – October 23, 2025

Attendance: Emily Pigeon (staff), Lucia Brown (Sec./Treas.), Scott Leeman (Pres.), Grace Coffee, Donna Gangitano, Corinna Caron (VP)

The meeting was called to order at 6:05.

Secretary’s Report: Scott motions to accept the minutes as written, Corinna seconds.  All in favor.

Nominations of Officers:

President – Lucia nominates Scott Leeman to be President.
Scott nominates the current roster of officers as held:
Vice President – Corinna Caron
Secretary – Lucia Brown
Treasurer – Lucia Brown

Grace seconded the motion.  All nominees accept their nominations. We’ll vote next month.

Staff Reports:

4-H Fun Fact/Ongoing Reframing of Volunteer Voices

  • Volunteer Voices recap
  • Is there anything that could be added?
  •  Prep for next meeting – Time to share and compare resources.

 Staff Report

-Recap on award night -Dessert Winner: Adam B. and his Apple Dessert Bars

-990-N are in process; issues with two of them, working on them

-I will be in Atlanta for National 4-H Congress November 28 to December 2. Emily will be able to answer emails, but they might be delayed.

-Charters; if anyone would like to work towards one let me know.

 Deadlines

  • November 15: 2026 National Trips Application deadline
  • December 31: ZSuite Re-enrollment; Open now
  • Due at time of Enrollment: Insurance $
  • December 31: Club Audits

Upcoming Events
November 7 – Robotics training for educators, registration required
November 28 – December 14: Tractor Supply Paper Clover Promotion

Awards Night – It was small but very nice.  It worked well having it in the 4-H Conference room.  The capacity of the room is 50-55.  We would definitely have it here again.

Club Audits – Due December 31.

Application Requirements –

We plan to add back the requirement to have participated in a County-wide fundraiser within the past 12 months.  The guideline will need to be amended to remove Old MacDonalds Farm as a fundraiser.  We need to add that participation is ‘confirmed by’ the 4-H Leader or the Extension Office.  How should the relationship to the applicant’s project be documented for the larger scholarship?  Should they have to provide a project record?  How does a member demonstrate that the camp or program is project-related?

Lucia proposes that question three be amended to read: Please tell us why you want to attend this camp or program.  What skills do you hope to gain?  If this camp or program is project-related, please tell us how it is connected to your project.  The group would also like to add that a project record, a written reflection, or a presentation to the Leader’s Association about the camp or program is highly encouraged.  Also amending the last lines of the form to read: “Which Penobscot County Fundraiser has this member participated in within the last 12 months?” Add a line, and, on the signature line, “Confirmed by the Club Leader or Extension Office”.  Also, to remove Old MacDonald’s Farm from a qualifying fundraiser.

Grace motions that the form be updated to include all of these changes.  Scott seconds, all in favor.

Camperships – None.

Commodity/Event Grants – None.

Fundraising
Sock fundraiser – Lucia is still working on this after getting some information from the University on non-profit status.  She submitted an interest form and has not heard back.  She’ll follow up with them to see if they received the submission.  Hopefully this will be set up soon.

Bottle drive – maybe spring of 2026? Donna will set up.   Damon’s wanted us to do the labor, but would give us an extra 20%.  Donna is also going to look into options in Old Town and Brewer.  Donna will keep looking into this and update us.

BSF

2026 Dates: July 30-Aug 8.  They are actively planning on the two weekends again and hope to have the fair book out by mid-January; any commodity changes need to be in by mid-December.

Donna would like to see the Club Exhibits and the Exhibit Hall brought downstairs on the floor to make it more accessible to the 4-H youth and the public.

Emily discussed that she would like to have youth interactive activities next year.

Next Meeting: November 20 – 6:00 pm

Secretary’s Report
Treasurer’s Report
Election of Officers
Staff Reports
Club Audits
Camperships
Commodity Grants
Fundraising
Bangor State Fair

Scott makes a motion to adjourn at 7:28, seconded by Lucia.  All in favor.

***********************************

Add to November Agenda, reminder that Club Audits not submitted timely (November) are due no later than January.

Track attendance from January – November

Nominations in October, vote in November, no meeting in December.

Contact:  Wendy Robertson, Administrative Specialist, by email at wendy.robertson@maine.edu or by phone at 942.7396 or contact Emily Pigeon, Community Education Assistant, email emily.pigeon@maine.edu

In complying with the letter and spirit of applicable laws and pursuing its own goals of diversity, the University of Maine System does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability physical or mental, genetic information, or veterans or military status in employment, education, and all other programs and activities. The University provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Director of Institutional Equity and Title IX Services, 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5713, 207.581.1226, TTY 711 (Maine Relay System).