Moultrie‑Douglas 4‑H announces March workshops, contest opportunities, and state scholarship recognition
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The Moultrie‑Douglas 4‑H program is gearing up for a busy and exciting March, offering several hands‑on workshops, youth development opportunities, and a special celebration of one member’s statewide achievement.
Leatherworking Workshop – March 7
Local 4‑H member Gareth Coffer, a freshman agriculture major at Lake Land College, will lead a special Leather Loop Keychain Workshop on Saturday, March 7, from 1–3 p.m. at the Arthur United Methodist Church.
Participants will learn basic leatherworking skills and leave with a handcrafted keychain.
This workshop is free, sponsored by the Arthur Rotary Club, and open to all youth ages 8–18.
Pre‑registration is required. Register here: https://registration.extension.illinois.edu/start/leather-skills-make-and-take-workshop
4‑H Public Speaking Contest – March 21
Another March highlight is the annual Moultrie‑Douglas 4‑H Public Speaking Contest, held Saturday, March 21 at 10 a.m. at Sarah Bush Lincoln.
Youth ages 8–18 are invited to showcase their communication skills in a supportive contest environment.
To participate, please contact: Rachel Stenger, 4‑H Program Coordinator, 217‑543‑3755; [email protected]
Deadline to enter: March 6
Livestock Judging Contest – March 21
The Moultrie‑Douglas 4‑H Livestock Judging Team will also be competing on March 21 at Lake Land College.
Youth ages 8–18 interested in joining the team for this event should contact Rachel Stenger by March 1.
Visual Arts Canvas Painting Workshop – March 28
Youth are invited to a relaxing and creative afternoon at our Canvas Painting Workshop with local artist and Tuscola Art Gallery President, Jim Powell, who also serves as a judge for our county General Projects Show. This is a free workshop, sponsored by the Arthur Rotary club.
Participants will enjoy a guided painting session and will take home a completed canvas—perfect to use as their 4‑H visual arts project this summer.
• Date: Saturday, March 28
• Time: 2–4 p.m.
• Location: Arthur United Methodist Church
• Ages: 8–18
• Cost: Free, sponsored by the Arthur Rotary Club
• 4‑H membership not required
• Register here: https://registration.extension.illinois.edu/start/4-h-canvas-painting-workshop
Local 4‑H Member Earns Statewide Scholarship
Moultrie‑Douglas 4‑H is proud to celebrate Kate Bushue, recipient of the 2026 Illinois 4‑H Gardening, Agriculture & Food Access Scholarship, sponsored by the Illinois 4‑H Foundation.
This prestigious award includes a $1,250 scholarship, which Kate will receive at the Illinois 4‑H Celebration of Excellence Awards Banquet on April 10 at the I‑Hotel in Champaign.
Kate is a sophomore at Sullivan High School, a 10‑year 4‑H member, and an active participant in the Moultrie County Shining Stars 4‑H Club in Sullivan. Her 4‑H leader is Erica Lehman.
She is the daughter of Jill and Josh Bushue.
Her dedication, leadership, and long‑standing commitment to 4‑H have made her a standout among youth across the state.
For more information about any upcoming 4‑H opportunities, contact Moultrie-Douglas 4-H Program Coordinator Rachel Stenger at 217-543-3755 or [email protected].
Additional information about 4-H clubs is on page B10.