February 4th, 2026
Marie's Message
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Dear 4-H Families:
Wisconsin 4-H is excited to announce Hall of Fame Laureates for 2026 including Ken (Charlie) & Ruth Lindegarde-Dodge County Volunteers.
Ken and Ruth Lindegarde devoted their lives to strengthening youth, families, and communities through decades of dedicated service to 4-H. Their commitment to citizenship, leadership, and youth development created a lasting impact felt across Dodge County, the state of Wisconsin, and beyond.
As lifelong supporters of 4-H, Ken and Ruth did far more than participate—they embodied the spirit of the program. From club leadership and project support to statewide camp training, youth conferences, and community health initiatives, their influence helped shape countless young people. Their work in areas such as outpost camping, leadership development, drama, safety education, and statewide youth protection training left an enduring legacy woven into the fabric of Wisconsin 4-H.
Their nomination to the Wisconsin 4-H Hall of Fame reflects the depth of this impact. The Hall of Fame honors volunteers, staff, financial supporters, and pioneers who have made significant contributions at the local, state, and national levels. Inductees represent the broad influence of 4-H—individuals whose dedication of time, energy, or resources has created meaningful change in the lives of youth and their communities.
Ken and Ruth’s lifelong partnership exemplified service in every form. Whether supporting livestock judging, directing theatre programs, chairing conferences, building youth development organizations, or mentoring families, they consistently modeled compassion, leadership, and integrity. Their work helped create generations of civic-minded youth who continue to carry forward the values they championed.
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We celebrate Ken and Ruth Lindegarde—true examples of what it means to live the 4-H pledge and strengthen the world around.
Have a great week,
Marie
Marie Witzel
Positive Youth Development Educator
UW Extension - Dodge County
920-386-3790
marie.witzel@wisc.edu
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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
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A message from the Dodge County 4-H Executive Leaders Association |
We are ALL here for the Youth of Dodge County!
Today, as Leaders and adults, we carry a responsibility when we are around 4-H youth when it comes to events such as, but not limited to, camps, meetings, training and/or educational sessions etc. It’s for everyone’s protection that simple requirements are in place. Adults who interact with 4‑H youth in a volunteer role are required to be approved 4‑H volunteers—a process that includes a 45‑minute training you can do from your favorite chair and a simple background check.
We have the best kids in Dodge County and we want to keep “Making the Best Better” while making sure they feel comfortable and safe throughout their 4-H career!
These requirements are mandatory. As parents and Leaders we kindly ask that all adults who may or may not have already enrolled through 4-H online to please complete your registration ASAP!
If you have any questions or require help with enrollment please contact the Extension Office at 920-386-3790
We thank you for your understanding!
On behalf of the Dodge County 4-H Executive Leaders Association
Anita Roberts – President
Sandy Salmi – President Elect
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If you’re thinking about college or technical school for the 2026–2027 school year, this is a great time to take a look at scholarships. Dodge County 4-H offers several scholarship opportunities, and you might be more eligible than you think. Even if you’re just starting to explore your options, it’s worth checking out what’s available and giving it a try. You’ve got nothing to lose and a lot to gain. ✨
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YQCA scholarships are available. They are due February 15th.
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✨Learn more at the "4-H Camp: Here We Come" Session at Family Learning Day on February 21st! |
Registration is open in 4-H Online until February 8th, 2026.
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Registration is open until February 14th, 2026.
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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.
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Wildlife and Woods is Wisconsin 4-H’s statewide natural sciences, wildlife, and forestry monthly, virtual event.
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.
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Dairy Scholarship
The 2026 Dodge County Dairy Youth Recognition Auction Committee Scholarship application is due March 1, 2026. Applicants must be accepted as full-time students in an accredited degree or short-course program and must have participated in the Dodge County junior dairy program (4-H, FFA, or junior breed organization) for at least three of the past five years, including exhibiting dairy cattle at the Dodge County Fair. Scholarships are funded through proceeds from the annual Dodge County Dairy Youth Recognition Auction held at the Dodge County Fair. LINK TO APPLICATION
Need Antique Farm Stuff For Buyer Gift
The 2026 Dodge County Dairy Youth Recognition Auction buyer gift will be items similar to these photos. If you have rural- and farm-life-related items lying around on your property that you'd be willing to donate for this artwork, please contact Ryan Altreuter at 262.443.9797 by March 15. See photos below 👇
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| Dairy Activity Card
Print off the dairy-activity card and get signatures for events you attend during the course of the year. 4-H dairy quiz bowl counts for points. Breed-association events are going on right now; those count for points. FFA dairy-related events coming up count for points. Take your printed activity card along to said events and get it signed. LINK TO DAIRY CARD
Next DYAC meeting
The next DYAC meeting is March 11, 2026, at 7:30 p.m., at Dodge County Administration Building Main Auditorium.
General questions? Contact DYAC via e-mail: dodgecountydyac@gmail.com.
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FEBRUARY
17 - 4-H Leaders Association Meeting 7:00 PM
13 - Last Day to Register for Family Learning Day
21 - Family Learning Day
MARCH
17 - Leaders Executive Board Meeting 7:00 PM
21 - Family Learning Day
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In Case You Missed It . . . |
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
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