Courtesy Photo Pictured, from left, are 2020-2021 4-H Member of the Year Beau Oliver, Alpena County 4-H Program Coordinator Michelle Eagling, and 2021-2022 4-H Member of the Year Ian Kasubowski.

ALPENA — Alpena County 4-H hosted its annual awards banquet in October.

Over 100 youth and family members gathered at the Antique Steam Engine and Tractor Show grounds to receive accolades for their 4-H project achievements during the past year.

Joined by community members, alumni, awards sponsors and families, the youth were thanked for their positive community projects and their hard work, time and energy in completing another 4-H year.

Many youth were recognized, but the most notable award given was the 2021-2022 4-H member of the year, Ian Kasubowski.

The Dale Huggler family has been the sole sponsor of the award since 1975.

Also at the banquet, youth received project pins in various categories including arts and crafts, animal science, waterfowl, woodworking, engineering, and textiles. Additional members recognized for their leadership included Beau Oliver, Savannah Avent, Ethan Leatzow, Hunter Ballor, and Alison Borowski.

Borowski was also recognized for her State Awards recognition as a Michigan 4-H State Awards Honoree. The Adeline Alexander Memorial Award went to Jazzmyne Kowalski for her work in home economics project areas. The “I Dare You” leadership award and leadership camp invitation went to Josie Howard. Savannah Avent, Brynn Kasubowski, and Tori Grochowski received Master Stockman recognition for their overall knowledge of animal science. The Margaret Manning Livestock Diversification Award winners were Savanah Avent, Brynn Kasubowski, and Jazzmyne Kowalski, who were presented with sweatshirts at the awards ceremony.

In addition to the youth 4-H members, volunteers and staff of MSU Extension were recognized. Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Raelynn Szatkowski was honored for her time and dedication to the 4-H program and youth development for the 2021 year.