The Fannin County 4-H Achievement Awards banquet was held on Tuesday, August 21, 2012 at the First Baptist Church of Bonham Activity Center.  Fannin County 4-H youth, volunteers, and community members were honored for their commitment and achievement throughout the year.

Notable honorees for the evening included the 4-H Gold Star Award winners, Jonathan Aukes and Selah Burnett.  The Gold Star Award is the highest honor a 4-H member can receive in their county and is in recognition of outstanding work and leadership in the 4-H program.  Other distinguished 4-H award winners included, Catherine Rainbow, Elisha Silva, and Halie Fetters who were awarded the Danforth “I Dare You Award;” Elisha Silva, Gabriella DeMay, Kayla Irvin, Trey Irvin, Aaron Aukes, and Joel Aukes, recipients of the 4-H Letterman Award; Ileana Rivera and Michelle Hodge, who received the 4-H All- Star Award; and Nathanael Fetters, who was awarded “Rookie of the Year.” 

Commissioner Stan Barker and Jonathan Aukes,
Gold Star Award Winner

4-H members were also recognized for completion of Record Books and participation in county, district, and state contests throughout the 4-H year.

The Fannin County 4-H program is supported by adult leaders and volunteers who dedicate their time, energy, and enthusiasm to help make the program successful.  Without the support of adult leaders, a 4-H program is not possible.  Vonda Hamilton was honored as “Outstanding Leader” for the year.  Mrs. Hamilton has gone above and beyond the responsibilities of a leader to help support the Fannin County 4-H program and has provided outstanding leadership to 4-H youth. 

Linda Brinlee, Heather Hodge, Marnie Fetters, Meredith Munger, and Cherie Rivera were also recognized for their hard work and dedication as 4-H Club Managers.

Another very critical component of the 4-H program is community support.  Each year, Fannin County 4-H is pleased to honor businesses, organizations or individuals with the “Friend of 4-H” award in appreciation for support shown to the 4-H program.  This year, Clayton Homes was honored for their generous support and sponsorship of 4-H community service events such as the Christmas dinner.  Texoma Housing Partners/TCOG was honored for their continued support of 4-H by allowing groups to utilize their facilities for club meetings and special events.  Sandy Peters,  was also honored with an individual  “Friend of 4-H” award for her generous donation of personal time and expense to help transport props and materials  for 4-H members involved in district and state competitions.

Special guests for the evening included Fannin County Commissioners Stan Barker, Joe Strong, Gary Whitlock, and Aaron Flightman, District and State 4-H Representative.

Commissioner Stan Barker and Selah Burnett,
Gold Star Award Winner

Fannin County 4-H would again like to thank everyone who helped make the 2011-2012 year a so successful.  If you are interested in joining 4-H as a member or volunteer, please contact the County Extension Office at (903) 583-7453.