October | Skagit County Newsletter
🍂 A Note from Your 4-H Coordinator
Happy October, Skagit County 4-H!
Welcome to the first edition of The Clover, our new home for all things Skagit County 4-H! As we kick off the 2026–2027 4-H year, I’m excited to share the incredible accomplishments of our youth, celebrate the volunteers who make it all possible, and highlight the opportunities ahead. From State Fair successes to new clubs and upcoming events, there’s so much happening in our 4-H community!
I hope The Clover becomes a place where we can stay connected, share our stories, and celebrate everything that makes Skagit County 4-H special. Here’s to another year of learning, growing, and making the best better! 💚
Ashley Saenz
Skagit County 4-H Program Coordinator
WSU Skagit County Extension
Mark Your Calendars!
The Latest from Skagit 4-H
Saddle Up for Teen Summit 2026!
Get ready for a weekend of adventure, leadership, and new friendships! Teen Summit 2026 is coming to Camp Lutherwood in Bellingham, November 7–8, bringing together 4-H teens from across Northwest Washington for an unforgettable, youth-led experience!
This year’s Western-themed event is packed with hands-on workshops, team challenges, outdoor activities, and opportunities to connect with fellow 4-H members. From livestock judging and animal science to leadership development and creative challenges, there’s something for everyone! Best of all, Teen Summit is planned by teens, for teens!
Whether you’re looking to build leadership skills, explore new interests, or make friends from neighboring counties, Teen Summit is the place to be!
Don’t miss your chance to join the fun. Grab your boots, bring your adventurous spirit, and register today! 🍀
Registration Is Open!
- When: November 7–8, 2026
- Where: Camp Lutherwood, Bellingham, WA
- Cost: $50 per youth through October 27; $65 beginning October 28
- Registration Deadline: November 4 at 9:59 PM
For more information:
Skagit Teen Summit Information
Register now for Teen Summit 2026:
Teen Summit 2026 Registration
Skagit County 4-H Achievement Night!
It’s time to celebrate another amazing year of Skagit County 4-H! Join us on Saturday, November 14, at 6:00 PM at the TERA Building in Anacortes for an evening of recognition, community, and celebration! We’ll honor the hard work and accomplishments of our 4-H youth and volunteers, present county awards, and reflect on another wonderful year together.
This is a potluck celebration, so please bring a dish to share! All Skagit County 4-H members, families, leaders, and volunteers are invited. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
📍 Location: TERA Building, 10200 March’s Point Road, Anacortes, WA 98221
📅 Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM
A New 4-H Year Begins! Enrollment Is NOW OPEN!
It’s time to kick off another exciting year of learning, leadership, and adventure! Enrollment for the 2026–2027 Skagit County 4-H year officially opened October 1, and we can’t wait to welcome back our returning families and meet some new faces!
Whether you’re passionate about animals, interested in STEM, love getting creative, or want to develop new skills, 4-H has something for everyone! With hands-on projects, community service, leadership opportunities, and friendships that last a lifetime, there’s no better time to get involved.
Ready to Join the Fun?
Both new and returning members must enroll for the new 4-H year through 4-H Online.
Let’s make the 2026–2027 4-H year one to remember! 💚
Calling All 4-H Artists! Help Design the Next Clover Newsletter!
We’re looking for creative Skagit County 4-H youth to help give The Clover a fresh new look for the 2026–2027 4-H year! Have an artistic side? We want to see it!
Submit your original artwork for a chance to have it featured as the official header of The Clover Newsletter, replacing our current Skagit Valley watercolor design. Whether you love painting, drawing, or digital art, this is your chance to showcase your creativity for the entire Skagit County 4-H community!
Submissions are due December 31, 2026, by 11:59 PM PST. Artwork can be emailed directly to Ashley Saenz at ashley.saenz@wsu.edu.
We can’t wait to see your creativity come to life in The Clover!
Celebrate 4-H Week with WSU 4-H!
Celebrate this year’s National 4-H Week from October 3rd – 10th! Help us celebrate the impact of 4-H across Washington by sharing your green gear, posting photos, and telling your 4-H story.
On Thursday of National 4-H Week, help us shine a light on all the good that 4-H does! Thankful Thursday is a day to recognize those who are making a positive impact by helping their communities and beyond. Share your own story or celebrate a 4-Her who is making a difference in your life. We want to know on Thursday, October 8th and use #4HBeyondReady or post on our Washington State 4-H Facebook or Instagram channels.
4-H empowers young people with the skills they need to lead, serve, and succeed. We are thankful for our 4-H members, families, and volunteers!
Around the Clubs
Welcome, Skagit Valley Needle & Thread 4-H Club!
We’re excited to introduce one of Skagit County 4-H’s newest clubs, Skagit Valley Needle & Thread! Led by Joyce Eastwick, the club held its very first meeting on October 3 at the Burlington Public Library.
Members kicked things off by learning the basics of using a sewing machine, including identifying its different parts, threading the machine, and winding a bobbin. The club is looking forward to helping youth build their sewing skills, explore their creativity, and have fun along the way!
Their next meeting will be November 21 at the Burlington Public Library, where members will learn how to sew Christmas gift bags! Interested in joining the fun? Grab a sewing machine and some fabric, and come check it out! New members are welcome, and no prior sewing experience is necessary. If you’d like to attend for the first time or have any questions, please reach out to club leader Joyce Eastwick at eastwick517@gmail.com.
Clover Champions
Skagit 4-H Equestrians Shine at Washington State Fair!
Skagit County 4-H horse members had an incredible showing at the 2026 Washington State 4-H Fair! From Western Games and Dressage to Horse Judging and Groom Squad, our youth demonstrated outstanding horsemanship, teamwork, and dedication. We are excited to celebrate their achievements!
Bringing Home the Gold!
A huge congratulations to the Skagit Groom Squad, who earned 1st place and a GOLD medal! Our Horse Judging teams also represented Skagit County exceptionally well, with the Intermediate Team placing 2nd and the Senior Team placing 3rd!
Western Games Champions & Top Finishers
Our Senior Western Games competitors had an impressive showing across several events!
- Ray L. – Champion in Showmanship and Texas Barrel Race, 3rd in Pole Bending, and 8th in International Flag Race.
- Kathleen – Champion in Pole Bending.
- Vivian A. – Reserve Champion in Texas Barrel Race and Pole Bending, 4th in International Flag Race, and 5th in Figure-8 Race.
- Emma A. – Reserve Champion in International Flag Race and 4th in Figure-8 Race.
- Ruby O. – 4th in Two Barrel Flag Race and 5th in International Flag Race.
- Ali R. – 5th in Two Barrel Flag Race.
- Liberty P. – 6th in Two Barrel Flag Race.
- Bell H. – 8th in Two Barrel Flag Race.
- Kaiana C. – 4th in Pole Key Race and Pole Bending, 6th in Texas Barrel Race, and 7th in International Flag Race.
- Annika H. – 3rd in Pole Key Race.
- Kayleeciana B. – 8th in Pole Key Race.
Dressage Achievements
Our Senior Dressage competitors also earned impressive placements!
- Camden S. – 3rd place in Arena Trail.
- Ashlynn B. – 3rd place in Disciplined Rail: English.
Skagit 4-H Dog Members Shine at Washington State Fair!
Skagit County 4-H dog members had an outstanding showing at the 2026 Washington State 4-H Fair! From Agility and Obedience to Showmanship and Dog Judging, our youth and their four-legged partners demonstrated incredible teamwork, dedication, and skill. We are excited to celebrate their many achievements!
Agility Champions & Top Finishers
Our dog agility competitors brought home several impressive awards!
- Juniper K. & Georgia – 4th in Standard Novice, earning Champion honors, and Jumpers Novice Champion.
- Aimree T. & Molly – Champion in 16″ Standard Pre-Novice and Jumpers Pre-Novice.
- Helena J. & Fergus – Champion in 4″ Standard Elementary, completing a clean run, and Jumpers Elementary Champion.
- Jessalyn T. & Paisley – Reserve Champion in 12″ Standard Elementary.
- Helena F. & Harry – Blue ribbons in 16″ Standard Elementary and Jumpers Pre-Novice.
- Ensley T. & Beau – Blue ribbon in 16″ Jumpers Elementary.
Showmanship Success!
Our members also earned outstanding placements in the Showmanship Finals!
- Negus M. & Bear – Senior Reserve Grand Champion!
- Audrey M. & Little Boo – 4th in Intermediate Showmanship.
- Helena F. & Harry – 6th in Senior Showmanship.
- Aimree T. & Molly – 7th in Senior Showmanship.
- Patrick S. & Salty – 7th in Intermediate Showmanship.
Obedience Champions
A special congratulations to Olive H. & Iris, who earned Grand Champion in the Senior Beginner Novice Obedience class! This outstanding achievement reflects the patience, dedication, and teamwork that go into building a strong partnership between handler and dog.
Dog Judging Achievements
Our Dog Judging competitors also represented Skagit County exceptionally well!
- Helena J. – Top Oral Reasons in the Intermediate division.
- Juniper K. – 4th place Intermediate.
- Audrey M. – 6th place Intermediate.
- Negus M. – 4th place Senior.
- Olive H. – 6th place Senior.
Skagit 4-H Rabbit Showmanship Success at State Fair!
Skagit County 4-H members continue to make us proud at the 2026 Washington State 4-H Fair! We’re excited to celebrate an outstanding achievement in the Rabbit Project!
A huge congratulations to Talitha R., who earned Reserve Champion in Senior Rabbit Showmanship! This impressive accomplishment reflects her dedication, knowledge, and the countless hours spent developing her rabbit handling and showmanship skills.
Skagit 4-H Archers Hit the Mark at Washington State Fair!
Skagit County 4-H archers had an outstanding showing at the 2026 Washington State 4-H Fair! Representing the Bullseye Bowmen 4-H Club, our youth demonstrated incredible focus, precision, and dedication in both Genesis and Compound archery competitions. We are excited to celebrate their achievements!
Grand Champions & Top Performers
Our Bullseye Bowmen archers delivered an outstanding performance, earning three Grand Champion titles between two exhibitors, along with several additional ribbons and impressive placements!
- Roxy P. (Intermediate) – Earned TWO Grand Champion awards in Genesis!
- DJ P. (Junior) – Earned Grand Champion honors and a red ribbon in Genesis!
- Luke P. (Junior) – Earned two red ribbons in Compound!
- Phoenix P. (Intermediate) – Earned two white ribbons in Compound!
- Kylie H. (Senior) – Earned two white ribbons in Compound!
- Kendall B. (Senior) – Earned two white ribbons in Compound!
💚 Skagit County Proud!
What an incredible showing for Skagit County 4-H at the 2026 Washington State Fair! From the show rings and competition arenas to the countless hours of preparation behind the scenes, our youth demonstrated dedication, perseverance, teamwork, and a passion for their projects. Beyond the ribbons, medals, and titles, these experiences represent the skills gained, friendships built, and memories made along the way.
Congratulations to ALL our Skagit County 4-H State Fair exhibitors! Whether you brought home a championship title, earned a ribbon, or simply stepped up to represent your county, we are incredibly proud of you! A heartfelt thank-you also goes out to the volunteer leaders, families, and supporters who helped make these opportunities possible.
Way to represent Skagit County 4-H! 🍀
The Volunteer Corner
Celebrating Two Outstanding 4-H Leaders!
A huge congratulations to Liz Holtcamp and Michelle Riddle on being named 2026 Skagit County Fair Stage of Honor inductees! This special recognition celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to the Skagit County Fair and Fairgrounds.
Liz serves as the Dairy Superintendent and is a member of the Skagit County Fairgrounds Foundation Board, while Michelle serves as the 4-H Horse Program Superintendent and a dedicated Skagit County 4-H club leader. Both have generously given their time, energy, and expertise to support our youth, strengthen our programs, and make the fair experience memorable for countless families.
We are incredibly grateful for their dedication to 4-H and our community. Congratulations, Liz and Michelle, on this well-deserved honor! 💚
Beyond the County
Teens Helping Teens Recruiting New Teen Leaders
“Teens Helping Teens” is a statewide youth-driven program that tackles important topics in our local and state community. Past youth have championed a wide range of topics, including drug take-back events, mental health awareness, and substance abuse prevention. Members in the past have gone on to present their creations at state and national events. Teens Helping Teens is now looking for passionate teens that are interested in making a difference in their community.
For more information, please contact the WSU CARES Teen and Communications Program Coordinator, R-A Mazzola (r.mazzola@wsu.edu), or Dr Ashley Hall (a.hernandez-hall@wsu.edu).”
2026-2027 4-H Equine Rule Book Available
The 2026–2027 Washington State 4-H Equine Rule Book is now available to view and download from the WSU Horse Program webpage under the Resources and Rules tab.
Edits were finalized at noon on October 2. If you downloaded a copy before then, it may not have all the changes, so please download it again to make sure you have the current version.
Washington State 4-H Hippology and Horse Bowl Contests Official Reference
Beginning October 1, 2026, Horse Smarts will be the sole reference for all questions and scenarios in the Washington State 4-H Hippology and Horse Bowl Contests. Copies are available for purchase on the American Youth Horse Counsel website. The Horse Smarts binder is designed to be updated over time so its content keeps pace with advances in equine science and industry practice, with revisions released about once every five years. If you already own a copy, purchase the 2026 Update packet and replace the affected pages with the revised and new content. If you’re buying a new copy, the 2026 updates are already included, so you don’t need the update packet.
Members planning to compete can start studying now, since everything you’ll see at the state contests will come from this one book. County horse programs are encouraged to purchase a copy and divide it into topic sections that youth can check out and study in manageable pieces. It’s also a great resource for club meetings, practice sessions, and study groups.
If you have questions about using Horse Smarts in your county, or would like help building hippology, horse bowl, and equine science activities for your members, please contact the State 4-H Equine Committee at 4h.equine@wsu.edu. We’re glad to help!
Help Us Grow The Clover!
Have something exciting happening in your 4-H club? We want to hear about it!
The Clover is all about celebrating the people, projects, and experiences that make Skagit County 4-H special. Whether your club has been busy learning new skills, giving back to the community, attending an event, or celebrating an achievement, we’d love to share your story!
Youth, families, and volunteers are encouraged to submit club updates, photos, upcoming events, accomplishments, and other 4-H news for a chance to be featured in an upcoming edition.
Submission Deadline: To be considered for the upcoming month’s newsletter, all submissions must be received by the last Monday of the previous month.
📬 How to Submit: Send your news, photos, and updates using either of these options:
- Email: ashley.saenz@wsu.edu with the subject line The Clover Newsletter Submission
- Online: Complete our Newsletter Submission Form.
Let’s make The Clover a newsletter created by our 4-H community, for our 4-H community! 💚
Stay Connected with Skagit County 4-H!🍀
Have questions about 4-H, interested in joining a club, or looking for ways to get involved? We’re here to help!
Ashley Saenz | Skagit County 4-H Program Coordinator
Washington State University Extension
Email: ashley.saenz@wsu.edu
Phone: 360-428-4270
Office: 11768 Westar Lane, Suite A, Burlington, WA 98233
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
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