Piscataquis County 4-H Newsletter, November 2025

November 3, 2025 News

Table of Contents

Piscataquis County 4-H Calendar

  • November 10 and 24: 3:30 – 5 p.m. Nightwings Archery in Sangerville
  • November 7, 14, 21: 3:30 – 5 p.m. In the Kitchen with Chef Ravyn at Central Hall Commons, Dover-Foxcroft
  • November 17: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Piscataquis County Executive Committee Meeting, Piscataquis Extension Office, Dover-Foxcroft
  • November 17: 6 p.m. County Budget Committee Public Hearing, County Commissioners Chambers, Dover-Foxcroft
  • November 22: 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Joy Truck Kids at the Legion Hall, Brownville Junction
  • November 23: 12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. Harvest balsam tips for wreaths and swags at Katy Waitt’s tree farm, North Rd. Sebec
  • November 28 (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) and November 29 (8 a.m. – 2 p.m.): Buy Nothing Days at Central Hall Commons, Dover-Foxcroft 
  • December 1: time TBD, Teen and Independent 4-H’ers Meet and Greet at Piscataquis Extension Office, Dover-Foxcroft
  • December 6: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Hometown Holidays/Buy Nothing Day at the Legion Hall, Brownville Junction

Welcome to the Piscataquis County 4-H Newsletter

Welcome to the Piscataquis County 4-H online newsletter, where we’ll keep folks updated on what’s happening in 4-H around the county, state, and nation! We’ll promote nearby in-person events and online opportunities for youth and families offered through UMaine Extension and other trusted community partners.

County 4-H News

Piscataquis County Extension Association 4-H Camp Fund

The Executive Committee of the Piscataquis County Extension Association works in partnership with the University of Maine Cooperative Extension and the Piscataquis County Commissioners to ensure UMaine Cooperative Extension maintains a presence in our county. These volunteers also support our programs in more direct ways by judging at events, connecting staff and community, and raising funds. The Executive Committee has committed to making the 4-H camp experience cost-free for Piscataquis 4-H families. There are four Maine 4-H camps around the state, each offering a variety of programs for youth. State and other funding streams specifically for Maine 4-H camps and campers reduce the financial burden on families, and our Executive Committee is working to eliminate it.

Thanks to the Executive Committee and the Piscataquis 4-H Leaders’ Association, John R. was able to attend Maine Sports Afield at Bryant Pond without cost to his family. Maine Sports Afield introduces teen campers to a wide variety of hunting and fishing opportunities with the goal of exposing them to proven tactics and tips for greater success in the field or on the water. John learned a lot about animals and their habitats and met peers as well as adult mentors, and is thinking about going to college to study Wildlife Biology. 4-H has helped fan John’s “spark,” and local funding feeds the flame.   

Checks and cash contributions to the Piscataquis 4-H Camp Fund may be mailed or dropped off at the Piscataquis County Extension Office, 165 East Main St., Dover-Foxcroft, ME 04426, or donate electronically to the Piscataquis County Gift Fund through the UMaine Foundation.

Nightwings 4-H Archery Club. 

The Nightwings 4-H Archery Club will be moving to Sangerville on November 10. Club meetings will be held through the winter every other Monday, 3:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. Enrollment is required through ZSuite. More detailed information for club members will be coming from Levi.

The Joy Truck Project 4-H Collaborative. 

Saturday, October 18, in Brownville Junction marked the first event of a series throughout the winter that 4-H programming with Joy Truck support will take place inside the American Legion Hall. 

Through a wonderful new partnership with the members of the American Legion in Brownville Junction, 4-H leaders, youth and families can continue enjoying 4-H and Joy Truck programming throughout the winter season while the Joy Truck is closed. It is with gratitude we recognize the veterans in Brownville Junction for their support of 4-H, the Joy Truck mission and the shared vision of youth-centered learning and creativity in the neighborhood. 

It was a beautiful warm afternoon on October 18, so we set up our stations for Halloween plaster mask-making outside on the picnic table. While we set up the spaces, kiddos from around the neighborhood enjoyed playing with the rainbow tarp in the large grassy yard between the Joy Truck and the American Legion Hall. 

The plan to have kids pair up with one another to construct a face-forming plaster mask was strategic. 4-H and the Joy Truck project share a philosophy in common that kids are capable of expressing themselves and leading when given the tools, space and guidance. Adults in this context support through facilitating empowered, experiential and custom learning. Shortly after starting, an opportunity for just this type of applied learning came up. It was clear for one pair that big emotions around trust and communication were coming up while applying plaster together. “She says she doesn’t trust me!” “But she is doing it wrong for me!” Wet plaster strips are cold and it can feel surprising when they are placed on the face. Not knowing where a person will apply the plaster strips can also be a source of anxiety. Feeling low self-esteem because the other person doesn’t trust is also a hurdle. This was an important moment for this pair to learn more about consent, safety, trust and communication. After a short interlude and processing the two were back to applying strips with enthusiasm and had moved on to switching roles. 

After everyone had left their mask on the table to dry (or kept them on while pretending to have a spa day in the sun) it was time to learn how to make cornbread with Trisha. Kids thoroughly enjoyed measuring and the tactile aspect of mixing by hand the cornmeal and shortening. Working together or with an adult, kids made enough mix so that by the end of the day everyone left with a bag of cornbread mix and instructions for baking, as well as coleslaw and beans to share with their families. 

Coming up on November 22 at 11:30, we will continue cooking lessons and talking about family recipes with Piscataquis County 4-H leaders and families from around the neighborhood.

In the Kitchen with Chef Ravyn

Chef Ravyn VanHelsing is offering a six session course in cooking skills and kitchen safety for kids 12 and up. Youth will learn and practice basics such as sanitation, safe use of tools (including knives) and equipment, teamwork and communication, all while creating delicious food! 

Chef Ravyn is passionate about feeding people well. They are also budget-conscious and have years of creative practice in the art of making something from nothing. Class sessions will be held Fridays at 3:30 p.m. at Central Hall Commons: November 7, 14, 21 and December 5, 12, 19. 

Enrollment through ZSuite is required. Select “In the Kitchen with Chef Ravyn” as the Club.

Buy Nothing Days

Canadian artist Ted Dave began celebrating Buy Nothing Day in September 1992 as a protest of consumerism. In 1997 he moved the day to “Black Friday,” the day after Thanksgiving, the biggest retail shopping day of the year in the US. The idea has gained traction over the years and feels especially resonant today.

Since 2021, Trisha has collaborated with Central Hall Commons to bring Buy Nothing Days to Dover-Foxcroft. Last year, she and Merrilee hosted a second Buy Nothing Day in Milo during Hometown Holidays. In 2025, Buy Nothing Days will be at Central Hall Commons on Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving and at the Legion Hall in Brownville Junction for Hometown Holidays (December 6). 

Buy Nothing Days are a great way to practice community care by sharing and circulating resources. There are many ways to participate:

  • Gather clean, gently used items that are ready for a new home
  • Make some food to share
  • Bring materials and teach a craft
  • Bring items to the event space
  • Help organize and display contributions
  • Come as you are and take what you like! Everyone is welcome to take whatever sparks joy or fills a need, absolutely free.

Growing Piscataquis 4-H 

4-H programming in Piscataquis County depends on caring adults to share their time and skills with youth. From leading or co-leading a club to helping with transportation or snacks, growing 4-H takes a community! Maine 4-H is working to offer more support and make volunteering less intimidating with some new initiatives.

A one-hour live Zoom introduction to 4-H volunteering, plus Q and A with UMaine Extension’s volunteer specialist, will be held several times over the next few months. The list of days and times can be found on the Start Your 4-H Volunteer Journey Training webpage.

Want to access the material on your own time? There’s a new module available in ZSuite in the Clover Academy section! Content includes the concepts of positive youth development and the 4-H Thriving model, experiential learning, ages and stages, and highlights the three-way partnership between USDA/NIFA, UMaine and county government. The module should take approximately 30-45 minutes to complete. A certificate will be generated and emailed to you at the end. 

If you’re not a 4-H volunteer yet, and you’d like to become one, visit the How Do I Become a Volunteer? webpage for more information.

There’s a new Lunch and Learn series that might be of interest if you’re considering volunteering with 4-H in any capacity. You don’t have to be a volunteer and you don’t have to pre-register! Find the first Friday half-hour Lunch and Learn sessions on the 4-H Volunteer Huddle webpage. 

Have a skill to share, but can’t commit to leading a club? Contact Trisha by email (trisha.smith1@maine.edu) and make an appointment or stop by the office (hours: M, Th, F 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.) to see Anette.

Piscataquis County 4-H welcomes caring adults who want to make more opportunities available for our youth. Completing the application, introductory training, background check, and interview may be daunting, but we will help you through it. Get started on the How Do I Become a Volunteer? page, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you hit a snag.

Contact Trisha by email (trisha.smith1@maine.edu) and make an appointment or stop by the office (hours: M, Th, F 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.) to see Anette.

State 4-H News

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

Publications: 

Extension Websites:

Congratulations to the Maine Equine Team!

September 18-21, 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 group
  • Participate in planning meetings
  • Attend the national summit
  • Collaborate to create a resource for younger Maine 4-Hers

Track Options and 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 D.C.
4-H Congress: November 27 – December 1, 2026 in Georgia

Find more information and the online application on the National 4-H Trips page.

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 on the 4-H AI in Agriculture Challenge website. 

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

  1. 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:

    1. Notice when a young person lights up/shows joy and positive energy towards something. 
    2. 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?) 
    3. Listen carefully for ways to support a young person.
    4. Help youth find ways to practice their spark.
    5. Attend games, performances, public demonstrations, and animal shows. 

  2. 4-H Volunteer Opportunities Calendar:
    We have SO many great 4-H volunteer opportunities available this year! Visit our calendar of events and scroll to the bottom of the page to subscribe to the calendar and never miss upcoming events, workshops, and more!

  3. 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 – 12:30 p.m. 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!

      1. 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.
        Password: volunteer

        Resource Spotlight
    2. 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!
    3. 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 the Animal Health Hub for more information.

The Piscataquis County 4-H Newsletter is published monthly.

For questions or more information, contact: Anette Moulton, Administrative Specialist, by email at anette.moulton@maine.edu, phone at 207.564.3301 or Trisha Smith, Positive Youth Development 4-H Professional, email trisha.smith1@maine.edu.

Office Hours: Monday, Thursday, and Friday from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

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).