Youth in Washington County 4-H were honored for their accomplishments Friday night at the annual 4-H Family Night and Awards Banquet at the Washington County Expo. The theme was Rooted in America – Growing in 4-H, a patriotic theme in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, with a presentation of colors by the Brenham High School MCJROTC and recognition of veterans. 4-Hers were commended for their participation in project areas and received scholarships and special awards, while volunteer leaders were recognized for their contributions, senior 4-Hers gave retiring remarks, and new officers were installed. The newly installed 2026-27 county council officers are: Colton Bilski, Ali Tiemann, Hailey Rudloff, Mallory Winkelmann, Brooke Mulder, Lane Damron, Bailee Wilson, Kinleigh Guidry, Dawson Moran and Barrett Merten. All photos courtesy Christy Moran: Family of the Year: The Merten Family Friend of 4-H: KWHI Rookie of the Year: Cassidy Bilski 4-H Bronze Star: Blaine Winkelmann, Clara Fehrle (not pictured is Dallas Fuchs) 4-H Silver Star: Khloe Leasure, Gretchen Merten, Lonna Wunderlich 4-H Gold Star: Matthew Philips 4-H Gold Star: Calvin Wunderlich 4-H Rising Star: Knowles Koehler, Colt Niemeyer (not pictured is Madison Fridye) 4-H Workhorse: Teagan Courade, Brooke Mulder, Ali Tiemann 4-H I Dare You: Mallory Winkelmann, Colton Bilski, Kinleigh Guidry 4-H Opportunity Scholarships: Calvin Wunderlich, Taylor Groce, McKenzie Tiemann, Colin Schomburg LaNell Seeker Memorial Scholarship: McKenzie Tiemann Washington County 4-H Scholarships: Colin Schomburg, Taylor Groce, McKenzie Tiemann, Calvin Wunderlich, Teagan Thompson(not pictured are Kylie Chalmers, Hagen Frank, Paige Fritsch, Kinley Kroll, Caleb Landry, Haileigh Lange, Paige Marth, Caleb Mauer, Matthew Philips, Carter Poehlmann and Cooper Swor) Newly installed 2026-27 Washington County Council Officers with 4-H Agent Kailyn Capps (left)