{"id":8226,"date":"2025-12-30T08:47:54","date_gmt":"2025-12-30T13:47:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/?p=8226"},"modified":"2026-04-16T11:50:13","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T15:50:13","slug":"4-h-4-u-january-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/4-h-4-u-january-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"January 4-H 4-U &#8211; 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<h3><strong>Table of Contents<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#important dates\">Important Dates to Remember<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#county\">County 4-H News<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#club news\">Club News<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#state\">State 4-H News<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#leaders-association\">Penobscot County 4-H Leaders Association<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><strong><a id=\"important dates\"><\/a>Important Dates to Remember<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>January 6:<\/strong> 2026 Maine 4-H Intent to Sell a Market Beef Project at Fryeburg Fair deadline<\/li>\n<li><strong>January 7:<\/strong> Registration Deadline for Farm Animal Care FUNdamentals 4-H SPIN Club<\/li>\n<li><strong>January 15:<\/strong> 2026 Maine 4-H Beef ESE Intent to Participate form deadline<\/li>\n<li><strong>March 1:<\/strong> 2026 Maine 4-H Dairy Eastern States intent to participate form deadline<\/li>\n<li><strong>March 3:<\/strong>\u00a0Maine 4-H Foundation Scholarship deadline<\/li>\n<li><strong><strong><b>April 11 (Snow Date April 12th): <\/b><\/strong><\/strong>Speak Up, Maine 4-H!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><strong><a id=\"county\"><\/a>County 4-H News<\/strong><\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><strong><b>Maine 4-H\u2019ers Trip to National 4-H Congress<\/b><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Each fall, teens from across the country get selected as state delegates to gather in Atlanta, Georgia, for <\/span><em>National 4\u2011H Congress<\/em><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"><em>.<\/em> This year, I had the privilege of chaperoning four Maine delegates, and I\u2019d like to share what the experience was like for myself and our four Maine youth who attended.<\/span><\/p>\n<h5><b>What Makes National 4\u2011H Congress Special<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-8246 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/National-Congress-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"Maine delegates posing with National 4-H Congress sign\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/National-Congress-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/National-Congress-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/National-Congress-105x79.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/National-Congress-317x238.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/National-Congress-423x317.jpg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/National-Congress-634x476.jpg 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/National-Congress-500x375.jpg 500w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/National-Congress.jpg 836w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,300px\" \/><\/b><\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Congress brings together hundreds of motivated teens for 5 days of <\/span>leadership development<span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, <\/span>community service<span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, <\/span>cultural exploration<span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, and <\/span>connection\u2011building<span style=\"font-weight: 400\">. It\u2019s fast\u2011paced, energizing, and full of opportunities for youth to stretch themselves.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">By the end of day one, two delegates reported:<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left\"><em>\u201cI loved getting to listen to the teen performances today. They picked great songs and are really talented.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left\"><em>\u201cEven though I am exhausted from traveling, I had an absolute blast!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<h5><b>What Youth Experience During the Trip<\/b><\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Throughout the week, delegates participate in workshops, service projects, keynote sessions, and cultural events. Some of the highlights for our group included:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Hands\u2011on workshops, one of which was led by Georgia College and State University, where youth explored activities that depended on communication skills<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Inspiring keynote speakers like Dr. Layman Hicks and John Beede<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-8248 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/raking-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"students raking mulch at a park\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/raking-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/raking-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/raking-105x79.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/raking-317x238.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/raking-423x317.jpg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/raking-634x476.jpg 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/raking-500x375.jpg 500w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/raking.jpg 836w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,300px\" \/><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Community service project at Sandy Springs Parks<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Cultural events: International Dinner, Atlanta History Center, and Gala<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Opportunities to meet teens from across the country<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Field trips to Truist Park, Georgia Aquarium, and Zoo Atlanta<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">One youth shared:<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left\"><em>\u201cIt was so nice to get outside today. Doing clean-up at the park made me feel like I was back home.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Another said:<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left\"><em>\u201cI got to talk to someone about lamb projects today! She gave me some ideas that I am going to take back to my club.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<h5><b>What the Experience was Like for Emily<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-8249 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Beede-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"Audience seated in rows of chairs facing a stage in a conference room. A speaker stands to the left of a large projected slide that reads \u2018STAY MOTIVATED\u2019 with Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube icons and the name \u2018John Beede.\u2019 The room is filled with mostly young attendees viewed from behind.\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Beede-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Beede-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Beede-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Beede-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Beede-105x140.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Beede-317x423.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Beede-423x564.jpg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Beede-634x845.jpg 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Beede-846x1128.jpg 846w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Beede-951x1268.jpg 951w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Beede-1268x1691.jpg 1268w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Beede-scaled.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,225px\" \/><\/b><\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">As a chaperone, I had the joy of watching our delegates grow more confident each day. As they all opened up, I got to know them as individuals both within and outside of 4-H. As I encouraged them to take advantage of every opportunity, I got to see them as team players and leaders. By the end of the trip, we all gained some new close friends.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">From my perspective:<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left\"><em>\u201cThere were some really great keynote speakers that I wish I had gotten to hear when I was a teenager. They were inspiring and motivational to all, young and old.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<h5><b>Who Should Consider Applying<\/b><\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Congress is a great fit for youth who are:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Interested in leadership or service<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Excited to meet new people<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-8250 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/yoga-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"People sit cross-legged on yoga mats in rows, practicing yoga in a large conference room.\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/yoga-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/yoga-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/yoga-105x79.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/yoga-317x238.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/yoga-423x317.jpg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/yoga-634x476.jpg 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/yoga-500x375.jpg 500w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/yoga.jpg 836w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,300px\" \/><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Ready for a structured, fast\u2011paced environment<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Curious about new ideas and cultures<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Looking to deepen their 4\u2011H involvement<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">One delegate put it simply:<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left\"><em>\u201cAs Dr. Hicks said, \u2018Get off you but!\u2019 The one with one t, not two.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<h5><b>How Families Can Prepare<\/b><\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">If your child is considering applying, it can help to:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Connect with 4-H staff and previous attendees<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Review application materials together<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-8252 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/gala-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"Maine and Mass delegates posing in front of the Tim Lindgren Centennial ballroom\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/gala-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/gala-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/gala-105x79.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/gala-317x238.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/gala-423x317.jpg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/gala-634x476.jpg 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/gala-500x375.jpg 500w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/gala.jpg 836w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,300px\" \/><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Talk about goals and interests<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Practice interview skills<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Even the application process itself helps youth grow.<\/span><\/p>\n<h5><b>Final Thoughts<\/b><\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">National 4\u2011H Congress is more than a trip; it\u2019s an experience that stays with youth long after they return home. They come back inspired, connected, and ready to take on new challenges with a new found \u201c<\/span><em>Courage to Grow and Heart to Serve\u201d<\/em><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><strong><a id=\"club news\"><\/a>Club News<\/strong><\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><strong><b>Penobscot Valley Homeschool Adventurers<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-8258\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/PVHA-hat-233x300.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"201\" height=\"259\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-8254\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Salt-dough-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"194\" height=\"259\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Salt-dough-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Salt-dough-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Salt-dough-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Salt-dough-105x140.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Salt-dough-317x423.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Salt-dough-423x564.jpg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Salt-dough-634x845.jpg 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Salt-dough-846x1128.jpg 846w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Salt-dough-951x1268.jpg 951w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Salt-dough-1268x1691.jpg 1268w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Salt-dough.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,194px\" \/><\/b><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"298\">PVHA wrapped up the year with a fun, holiday-themed meeting that truly showcased everyone\u2019s creativity. Members enjoyed hands-on activities like making classic salt-dough ornaments and decorating festive \u201cugly holiday sweater\u201d hats.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"300\" data-end=\"617\">Our older youth also took time to hold a productive business meeting, where members shared thoughtful ideas for upcoming community service projects, brainstormed possible field trips, and suggested engaging themes for future club meetings. It was great to see so many members actively contributing and thinking ahead.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"619\" data-end=\"870\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">We finished the craft-filled day by relaxing together and enjoying homemade sweet treats and warm hot cocoa. As we head into the new year, we\u2019re excited to turn many of these ideas into real plans and continue building meaningful experiences together.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4 data-start=\"619\" data-end=\"870\"><strong>Shoes n&#8217; Shears<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-8266 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Baking-project-230x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"230\" height=\"300\" \/><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>We had our business meeting on November 22 and continue to learn about 4-H. We planned our community service activity for December 21, where we did our second of the year helping at the Old Town Elks Santa breakfast.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-8263 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Santa-Breakfast-300x207.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"207\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Construction started on our new sheep shed at our leader\u2019s house November 8 and finished up on November 27 . Members helped from putting the poles in the ground to screwing down the sheet metal on the roof. We learned a lot from our Papa.<\/p>\n<p>Lambing starts on February 14. We will help vaccinate the sheep during our holiday vacation.<\/p>\n<p>We did a baking project on December 13.<\/p>\n<p>We went to Tractor Supply and saw the 4-H display. While at Tractor Supply, we learned about the ingredients in dog food used for skin sensitive dogs and horse grain low in starch, for horses who are elderly and need grain to gain or maintain weight.\u00a0 Next year we will bring animals with us.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><strong><a id=\"state\"><\/a>State 4-H News<\/strong><\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><strong>STEM Snippet<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Each month the STEM Snippet will have a short, simple STEM activity that folks can do with minimal materials, with minimal STEM knowledge, with multiple ages, and in different contexts (clubs, at home, 4-H events, etc.) The monthly STEM Snippets will usually be tied to the seasons or tied to Maine in some way and will always be tied to 4-H and quality youth development.<\/p>\n<h5><strong>2026 January Snippet: Snowflake STEM<\/strong><\/h5>\n<ul>\n<li>5 minutes outside<\/li>\n<li>Try it: Catch snowflakes on a dark mitten, jacket sleeve, or piece of paper. Look closely before they melt.<\/li>\n<li>Notice &amp; Wonder: What do you notice about the shape? Do any look the same? What patterns do you see?<\/li>\n<li>Gear Down: Cloverbuds &#8211;\u00a0 Just look and talk. Name shapes or count points. Describe what you see using colors or words.<\/li>\n<li>Gear Up: Tweens &amp; Teens &#8211; Compare snowflakes on different surfaces. Predict which will melt fastest and why. Take photos and look for symmetry of repeating patterns.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h5><strong>4-H tip<\/strong><\/h5>\n<p>When kids notice, share ideas, and try things out, they&#8217;re building confidence, communication, and problem-solving skill they&#8217;ll use throughout life.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><b>Farm Animal Care FUNdamentals 4-H SPIN Club<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Are you interested in learning about livestock animals (such as cows, goats, or sheep)? How do we care for them? How do you know what to feed them, how do you actually do regular health checks and have proper housing? Join the 4-H Animal Science SPIN club. We will have 3 virtual sessions focused on what livestock need to live a healthy life and one field day that provides hands-on experience. Set yourself up for success in your 4-H project by learning the basics of animal care. Participants do not need any prior animal experience or currently own livestock to participate. This is a beginner\/introductory level program.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> This is a free opportunity for youth ages 9 \u2013 18. <\/span><b>\u00a0<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Virtual sessions will be Thursdays, January 22, 29th, February 5, 2026, 4:00-5:15 pm.\u00a0 February 12th will be an optional session for youth who intend to participate in a 4-H livestock project. The final session will be geared towards youth who are beginning their journey into raising livestock.<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/virtual-learning-hub\/agriculture-animal-science\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Learn More and Register Here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> before January 9, 2026<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><strong>Winter STEM Virtual Workshop Series<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-8236\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Winter-240x300-1.jpeg\" alt=\"person cross county skiing in a snowy wooded area\" width=\"178\" height=\"223\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Winter-240x300-1.jpeg 240w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/Winter-240x300-1-105x131.jpeg 105w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 178px) 100vw, 178px\" \/><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>When:\u00a0February 17, 18, 19, 20 from 10am to 11:15am<\/p>\n<p>Where:\u00a0This virtual series will meet on zoom<\/p>\n<p>Cost:\u00a0Free<\/p>\n<p>This February, ignite a new appreciation for winter! Join our hands-on, curiosity-driven virtual science series designed for youth ages 10 and up. Through guided inquiry, investigation, and observation, we will explore all the wonders of the cold season. Get ready to transform your view of winter!\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/virtual-learning-hub\/steam-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Register for Maine 4-H Virtual Learning Workshop Series<\/a> by February 3, 2026 or contact <a href=\"mailto:emily.booth@maine.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">emily.booth@maine.edu<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><strong>4-H Public Speaking Update\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>You asked, we&#8217;re excited! Performing Arts demonstrations will now be part of Speak Up, Maine 4-H the statewide Public Speaking Program.<\/p>\n<p>From dramatic monologues to musical performances, this creative category is your time to express yourself and share your spark center stage.<\/p>\n<p>Performing Arts demonstrations include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>a spoken introduction<\/li>\n<li>your performance<\/li>\n<li>and a spoken conclusion<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Specific details, including updated evaluation tools and judges\u2019 support for all categories, will be available soon on the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/public-speaking\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Speak Up, Maine 4-H\u00a0website\u00a0<\/a>and through county staff. <strong><b>Save the Date! The State Showcase will take place on April 11th (Snow Date April 12th).<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><strong>Maine 4-H ESE Beef Intent to Participate Forms are Now Available<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>The 2026 <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/animal-science-resources\/beef\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Maine 4-H Beef ESE Intent to Participate form<\/a> is\u00a0now available online\u00a0and must be submitted by\u00a0January 15, 2026. This is a requirement for all youth intending to participate as members of the Maine 4-H Beef Team at the Eastern States Exposition in September. Youth must be 12-18 years old as of December 31, 2025 and have completed one year in a beef project prior to this year. Please contact Kristen Grondin,\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:kristen.grondin@maine.edu\">kristen.grondin@maine.edu<\/a>, 207-581-8193, or Cathy Bartlett Gray,\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:cathy.gray@maine.edu\">cathy.gray@maine.edu<\/a>, 207-743-6329\u00a0 with any questions.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><strong>2026 Maple Sugaring 101: From Sap, to Syrup, to Sales<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Maple Sugaring 101 is a virtual program open to Maine youth ages 10+ who are interested in learning about the entire maple sugaring process and how to create a commercial grade syrup. Participants will learn about forest management, tapping trees, transporting sap, using an evaporator, grading and storing syrup, and operating a maple sugaring business. The program will be three one-hour sessions on Zoom, one session per week, during the afternoon. Exact dates will be released in January 2026.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8237 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/maple-sap-bucket-225x300-1.jpeg\" alt=\"silver maple sap bucket hanging from tree with snow covered trees in the backgroun\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/maple-sap-bucket-225x300-1.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/maple-sap-bucket-225x300-1-105x140.jpeg 105w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,225px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Each week, participants will learn about the process and connect with other young maple sugar makers through online meetings led by University of Maine Cooperative Extension experts.\u00a0 This program will also prepare youth for a new Level 1 digital badge called 4-H Foundations of Maple Sugaring Enterprise. Youth who complete the program will get free access to the learning modules to earn the digital badge.<\/p>\n<p>Independent club members or youth who are interested in the program but are not a member of a participating club are welcome to register!<\/p>\n<p>If you are interested in this program, please complete <a href=\"https:\/\/forms.gle\/JwNiYnPtU1ihXN2G9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">the 2026 Maple Sugaring 101 interest form<\/a> so we can follow up with you about registration.<\/p>\n<p>Club leaders who would like to have their club participate in this program, please contact your 4-H County Professional or Andrew Hudacs by Monday, January 26, 2026: andrew.hudacs@maine.edu, (207) 581-8204.<br \/>\nFor more information, please visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/annual-events\/maple-sugaring-101\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Maple Sugaring 101 webpage.<\/a><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><strong>4-H Foundations of Maple Sugaring Enterprise Micro-Credential<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>The University of Maine System (UMS) 4-H Foundations of Maple Sugaring Enterprise Micro-credential is a learning pathway for teenage youth to learn the essential aspects of the maple industry. Students completing the program demonstrate the foundational knowledge and skills to work in a maple forest, sugarhouse, and produce commercial-grade maple syrup and value-added food products. Additionally, participants understand how skills and traits gained during work in the maple industry are transferable to other workplace situations.<\/p>\n<p>Students ages 14+ may enroll in the micro-credential pathway and learn the material through an instructor-led class or by self-study.<\/p>\n<p>Register on the 4-H Foundations of Maple Sugaring Enterprise Micro-credential webpage.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"8238\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-8238\" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/maple-syrup_remsberg_151014330493-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/maple-syrup_remsberg_151014330493-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/maple-syrup_remsberg_151014330493-105x70.jpg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/maple-syrup_remsberg_151014330493-317x211.jpg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/maple-syrup_remsberg_151014330493-423x282.jpg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/maple-syrup_remsberg_151014330493-634x422.jpg 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/maple-syrup_remsberg_151014330493.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,300px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo by Edwin Remsberg<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Students progressing along the micro-credential pathway will earn and receive a digital badge at each milestone they achieve. There are three digital badge levels of knowledge and skills on the pathway that must be completed before proceeding to the next level. All three levels cover learning topics for working in the woods, the sugarhouse, the kitchen, and operating a business.\u00a0 The three units for each digital badge and learning level are called \u201cWoods Work\u201d, \u201cThe Sugarhouse\u201d, and \u201cKitchen and Business\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/annual-events\/maple-sugaring-101\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">4-H Maple Sugaring 101<\/a> virtual program will prepare students for the Level 1 digital badge.<\/p>\n<p>The Level 1 knowledge exam is the first of three parts required to earn the full micro-credential. There is no cost to enroll and take the Level 1 assessment. After passing this test, students can then demonstrate their skills with an approved instructor to complete Levels 2 and 3.<\/p>\n<p>To learn more or to sign up for the pathway, please email <a href=\"mailto:andrew.hudacs@maine.edu\">andrew.hudacs@maine.edu<\/a> or by phone, 207.581.8204.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><strong>4-H Volunteer Corner: Your corner for connection, tips, and tricks! Fuel the Spark!<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Okay, Maine 4-H volunteers- we have shared information about \u201cyouth sparks\u201d in our past three editions of the 4-H Volunteer Corner. Now it\u2019s YOUR TURN- tell us how YOU are helping to support or fuel a youth spark! Fill out this short form to highlight one example of youth spark and the role you played, and your name will be entered into a drawing for some cool 4-H swag! YOU MAKE a difference! Tell us how you do it! <a href=\"https:\/\/forms.gle\/NwK6oqSqzu6Ryfeh8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">4-H Volunteer SPARK<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h5><strong>4-H Volunteer Huddle:<\/strong><\/h5>\n<p>Join us for a short \u201cgather and learn session\u201d to help you up your game. 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\u2019s something for everyone. We\u2019d love to see you there! No registration required!<\/p>\n<p>Join from PC, Mac, Linux, iOS or Android:<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/maine.zoom.us\/j\/82015703524?pwd=QkT05bDbaaDIeYAQ8aGUd4eco5c6Rd.1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">maine.zoom.us\/j\/82015703524?pwd=QkT05bDbaaDIeYAQ8aGUd4eco5c6Rd.1<\/a><br \/>\nPassword: volunteer<\/p>\n<p>January 2, 2026- <em>Navigating 4-H Curriculum Resources<br \/>\n<\/em>Explore the wide range of 4-H curriculum materials and learn how to access and utilize guides, activity books, and resource toolkits tailored for youth programming.<\/p>\n<p>February 6, 2026- <em>Igniting Youth Sparks<\/em>:<em> Hands-On Strategies for 4-H Volunteers<\/em><br \/>\nDiscover how to identify and nurture the unique passions, interests, and\u00a0talents\u2014\u201csparks\u201d\u2014that inspire young people to thrive. Get hands-on activities and\u00a0strategies for igniting and sustaining youth sparks in their 4-H clubs.<\/p>\n<h5><strong>4-H Volunteer Connections<\/strong><\/h5>\n<p>January 21, 2026 <em>Volunteer Excellence<\/em>: <em>Recognizing Achievement, Inspiring Growth<\/em><br \/>\n6:30-8:00pm. Free to attend, but registration is required!<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><strong>Your Voice is Needed! Passionate about 4-H Poultry &amp; Rabbit Projects?<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Help shape the new 4-H poultry and rabbit tracks that will debut at Eastern States in 2026! We are forming planning committees for each species and are looking for knowledgeable, enthusiastic 4-H volunteers and interested youth to join us in developing high-quality, engaging opportunities for 4-H members across the region. Join one of our upcoming drop-in virtual information sessions to learn more. We\u2019d love to have your experience, creativity, and passion at the table! Contact Sadee Mehuren, <a href=\"mailto:sadee.mehuren@maine.edu\">sadee.mehuren@maine.edu<\/a>\u00a0 207.342.5971<\/p>\n<p>Info Session Dates: Jan 6, 2026 06:00 PM,\u00a0 Jan 22, 2026 06:00 PM<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/maine.zoom.us\/j\/84571900345?pwd=r3r8fH1VVWNHu7AtR6h2MIam8b9oPw.1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Zoom Link for Your Voice is Needed<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Password: 058775<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><strong>Resource Spotlight<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>4-H Club Leader Handbook is a resource designed to help new club leaders get off to a strong start, containing specific information for facilitating the 4-H club model. Check out this amazing <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/volunteers\/club-leader-handbook\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">4-H Club Leader Handbook resource<\/a> online or contact your county office for a printed copy.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><strong><a id=\"leaders-association\"><\/a>Penobscot County 4-H Leaders\u2019 Association<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>No December meeting.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>Contact:\u00a0 Wendy Robertson, Administrative Specialist, by email at <a href=\"mailto:wendy.robertson@maine.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">wendy.robertson@maine.edu<\/a> or by phone at 942.7396 or contact Emily Bishop, Community Education Assistant, email <a href=\"mailto:emily.pigeon@maine.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">emily.pigeon@maine.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><em>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).<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Table of Contents Important Dates to Remember County 4-H News Club News State 4-H News Penobscot County 4-H Leaders Association Important Dates to Remember January 6: 2026 Maine 4-H Intent to Sell a Market Beef Project at Fryeburg Fair deadline January 7: Registration Deadline for Farm Animal Care FUNdamentals 4-H SPIN Club January 15: 2026 [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":90,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[182,176],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8226","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-4h-4u-news","category-4h-news"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>January 4-H 4-U - 2026 - Cooperative Extension in Penobscot County - University of Maine Cooperative Extension<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/4-h-4-u-january-2026\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"January 4-H 4-U - 2026 - Cooperative Extension in Penobscot County - University of Maine Cooperative Extension\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Table of Contents Important Dates to Remember County 4-H News Club News State 4-H News Penobscot County 4-H Leaders Association Important Dates to Remember January 6: 2026 Maine 4-H Intent to Sell a Market Beef Project at Fryeburg Fair deadline January 7: Registration Deadline for Farm Animal Care FUNdamentals 4-H SPIN Club January 15: 2026 [&hellip;]\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/4-h-4-u-january-2026\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Cooperative Extension in Penobscot County\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-12-30T13:47:54+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-04-16T15:50:13+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2025\/12\/National-Congress.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"836\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"627\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"wrobertson\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"wrobertson\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"15 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/4-h-4-u-january-2026\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/4-h-4-u-january-2026\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"wrobertson\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/penobscot\/#\/schema\/person\/562f4bf9c056f304568982721c990798\"},\"headline\":\"January 4-H 4-U &#8211; 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