This year Island County 4-H combined Achievement Night and Rally Night to celebrate past achievements and welcome new members, followed by refreshments and games.

Jackie Vannince, 4-H program coordinator, described the celebration as “one fantastic and memorable evening.”

Oak Harbor High School NJROTC opened the festivities with a presentation of flags by the at Coupeville High School Commons, followed by 4-H’er Arianna Cane’s rendition of the National Anthem.

A candle lighting ceremony marked the inclusion of new 4-H leaders, clubs, standing club leaders and new members for 2008-2009.

Graduating 4-H members, Elizabeth Vannice-Zahrt, Paige Mueller, Annie Southard, Brittany Loveng, Chelsea McHugh, Karissa Lawson, Rachel Evans and Rachel Martinez, were also recognized for their achievements within the program.

Winner of the 4-H’er of the Year award, Maria Kidder, a Coupeville High School senior, is part of the Central Whidbey Cattlemen.

Chrissy O’Keefe, of Langley, who participates with Canine Champions, won the 4-H Leader of the Year award and Denise Boyett, also of Langley, and a participant of the Horse Division, was awarded 4-H superintendent of the year.

“We’re so impressed by what our youth has accomplished this past year,” Jackie Vannice, 4-H program coordinator, said.

Attendees enjoyed refreshments and games provided by the South Whidbey 4-H clubs following the ceremony.

The Whidbey 4-H offers programs geared toward kids ages 5 through 19. Participants are encouraged to choose a project of interest and work with others that provide leadership learning experiences and a meaningful opportunity to help support the community. The club also offers kids a chance to get involved with the Island County Fair. For more information, please contact WSU Extension, 4-H Youth Development at www.island.wsu.edu, or call the 4-H Program Coordinator, Jackie Vannice at 679-7328.