Submitted by San Juan County 4-H.

San Juan County 4-H would like to express its deepest gratitude to the community for an inspiring and successful 2025 San Juan County Fair. The fair highlighted the hard work of 82 4-H members who exhibited over 800 projects, from animal exhibits and showmanship contests to demonstrations and still-life exhibits in the Marie Boe Building.

“The love and support of our community was felt throughout the entire fair, especially with the overwhelming support the youth received at the annual livestock market auction and the still-life silent auction,” said Clinton Gauthier, 4-H program coordinator. “It’s so inspiring to see the community rally around our members as they ‘learn by doing,’ making their experience at the fair an unforgettable one. Their encouragement truly helps our youth ‘to make the best better.’”

The fair is a testament to the dedication of 4-H families, members and volunteers, as well as partners at the San Juan County Parks and Fair Department. Experienced members went above and beyond, mentoring younger participants and enriching the fair experience for everyone.

The San Juan Leaders Council also recognized two outstanding youth with annual awards:

Harold Kjargaard Memorial Award: Harrison E. of San Juan Island was honored for his exceptional leadership and numerous hours dedicated to improving the fairgrounds.

Leaders Council Leadership Award: Solianna H. of Orcas Island was recognized for her mentorship and incredible perseverance and resiliency, continuing her involvement in 4-H after a destructive house fire affected her family earlier this year.

“While Harrison and Solianna were specifically recognized, all the youth involved in 4-H deserve a round of applause for their efforts,” Gauthier said. “I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the other youth nominated for these awards as well, Betty B., Emilio B., Dani A., and Audrey R.,” he added.

For those interested in joining 4-H, the new program year starts Oct. 1. Prospective members and volunteers are invited to contact Gauthier at 360-350-2209 or sanjuan.4-H@wsu.edu. Additionally, a 4-H Year Kickoff event will be held at the San Juan Grange on Oct. 19 at 5 p.m.