January 7, 2026

Marie's Message

Dear 4-H families,

A New Year. New Sparks. Endless Possibilities.

As we begin a new year, 4-H is excited to help youth discover their sparks—those interests and passions that light their way. Youth can explore and try their sparks through a new lesson plan designed for 4-H clubs and by participating in Family Learning Days, where hands-on experiences help sparks grow into skills, confidence, and lifelong learning.

I am reaching out to invite a few clubs to participate in the Sparks Lesson Pilot. This pilot is an exciting opportunity to engage youth in innovative, hands-on learning experiences designed to spark curiosity and creativity.

By joining, your club will:

· Be among the first to explore new lesson content.
· Provide valuable feedback to help shape future programming.
· Offer members a unique and enriching experience.

I would love to have your club involved in this initiative. Please let me know if you are interested or if you have any questions about the process.

Here are the first things to consider:

1. First, I would come to the club and teach the lesson.
2. Second, we would need someone to be a sparks champion for your club. It could be another adult or youth leader in the club. They would be trained virtually in the next couple of weeks. So they need to register ASAP.

A Sparks Champion is a cheerleader and supporter for youth sparks. You don't have to be an expert. It's enough to care and encourage youth as they grow and thrive in something they feel passionate about.

Additionally, we are finalizing the Family Learning Day registration for February. We just need a few more presenters and their session details.

I can’t wait to see how youth sparks develop in 2026!

Thanks, 
Marie

Marie Witzel
Positive Youth Development Educator
UW Extension - Dodge County
920-386-3790
marie.witzel@wisc.edu

If clubs or groups have items to share, send them by noon on Monday to be included in that week’s issue. Anything received after 12 p.m. Monday will be considered for the following week. 

Please send any 4-H or youth development related emails to marie.witzel@wisc.edu

Tri-County Twisters (Kellen) --  Club gave a fitting brush as a graduation gift for Faith Weichmann. Brat Haus fund raiser planned for April Brat Haus Dates and flavor they would like. Klug and Weihert families are to make Valentines for next meeting. Next Meeting will February 1st after bowling at 4:15 at the Karl Junginger Library.

Are you ready to inspire the next generation? Join us as an Adult Advisor or Young Adult Leader at Summer Academy! Help youth grow, learn, and lead—all while having fun. Apply today!

Who Do We Need?
Adult Advisors: Provide mentorship, supervision, and logistical support.
Young Adult Leaders: Serve as role models, lead activities, and support youth engagement.

Why Volunteer?
Make a lasting impact on youth.
Build leadership and mentoring skills.
Be part of a fun, educational summer experience.

What’s Involved?
June 14-18, 2026 at the beautiful University of Wisconsin–Madison campus
Training provided, both virtual and in person to help you prepare for your role
Lodging, meals, and transportation covered 

Application Process
Online form - for all statewide educational experiences
Deadline: February 28, 2026 (for Summer Academy specific applicants)
Contact info: Email lindsay.spindler@wisc.edu for any questions

Wildlife and Woods is Wisconsin 4-H’s statewide natural sciences, wildlife, and forestry monthly, virtual event.

Outdoor enthusiasts connect with other 4-H youth of all ages from around the state. Together, we explore the natural world with a special focus on wildlife, wildlife habitats, and trees. Participants learn about wild places across the United States following the 4-H Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP) and the 4-H Forestry Program. Materials are designed for all ages and knowledge levels, so everyone can benefit. Since the sessions are co-presenter by youth and adult leaders, the youth leadership opportunities are plentiful.

Register for Wildlife & Woods Virtual Series
Log into your family account in 4HOnline. Under the EVENTS tab look for “Wildlife & Woods Virtual Series,” register, and then you will receive an email with the Zoom link. If you need help registering or are registering as a participant, please visit the “Ready to Participate” website.

Please note that the Horicon Marsh Archers Club has MOVED. Also, be sure to check the Band App for more details. The project fee and waiver must be turned in before participants are allowed on the range to shoot.

Dairy activity card

Here is the 2025-2026 Dodge County Dairy Project Member-Activity Card. Events and activities on this form must be initialed by an event/activity adult or a DYAC member for the youth to be eligible for exhibition at the Wisconsin Junior State Fair and participate in the Dodge County Dairy Youth Recognition Auction. See attached.

Next DYAC meeting

Our next DYAC meeting is scheduled for Jan. 14, 2026, 7:30 p.m., at the
Dodge County Administration Building Main Auditorium
127 East Oak Street
Juneau, WI 53039 

Wisconsin 4-H Dairy Quiz Bowl

The 2026 contest will be held Feb. 7, 2026, at the UW-Green Bay STEM Innovation Building. Sports keep everyone very busy this time of year, so dairy volunteers are trying to analyze if enough kids are available to assemble teams. Dairy quiz bowl is a competition where all questions deal with dairy topics. If you're a 4-H member and interested in participating, please call or text Brock Irwin by Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, at 920.470.1206. Dairy quiz bowl counts for points on your dairy-activity card.

General questions? Contact DYAC via e-mail: dodgecountydyac@gmail.com.

JANUARY

20 - 4-H Executive Leaders Board Meeting 7:00 PM

21 - Small Animal Committee Meeting 6:30 PM

FEBRUARY

17 - 4-H Leaders Association Meeting 7:00 PM

PYD Media Collection Project Resources Follow the link to learn more about the collection and request materials.

4HOnline  Log in to your account at the Wisconsin 4-H Online Sign in page

Visit the Wisconsin 4-H Website

WI 4-H Policy Updates

The University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming in compliance with state and federal law.

University of Wisconsin-Madison, Division of Extension
Dodge County 4-H
Extension Dodge County  127 E. Oak Street  Juneau, WI 53039-1329
tel: 920.386.3790    fax: 920.386.3928