2022 Inductees: Danny and Cheryl Purdum
For more years than anyone can count, Danny and Cheryl Purdum of rural Kent have contributed significantly to Union County 4-H and Clover Kids. These programs would not be where they are today without the Purdums’ efforts. Danny’s involvement began as a 10-year member of Union County 4-H, showing beef cattle and holding various club and county offices. He inherited his commitment to 4-H from his father, Raymond Purdum, who was a long-time club leader and volunteer. Cheryl, on the other hand, was recruited into the 4-H program when the Union County Extension director recognized Cheryl’s love of children and natural talent for working with them. The couple was leaders of the Douglas Boosters 4-H club when their sons Cody and Casey were members. In addition, Danny served on the Union County Extension Council. Danny also was integral in reviving fund-raising efforts and activities of the Union County 4-H Foundation in the late 1980s. In 1996, a grant allowed Extension to hire Cheryl to launch the county’s Clover Kids program. Not only did Cheryl train and assist volunteer leaders with programming that was used in community club meetings, but she also created and carried out monthly after-school Clover Kids programs in both Creston and East Union schools. At its peak, the program served serving more than 400 K-3 children, many of whom continued into 4-H and were members throughout high school. In 2004, Cheryl was recognized by ISU Extension with the Pride of Extension – Program Management Award for “outstanding efforts carried out with much originality or creativity by an individual.”
In 2007, Cheryl became county youth coordinator working with both Clover Kids and 4-H programs for an additional eight years. During her tenure, the county launched shooting sports and robotics special-interest clubs. Cheryl worked with the County Council, accompanied 4-H members as they traveled to team-building leadership events throughout the state, and guided members in securing grants to build small-animal wash racks for sheep and new pens for the swine barn.
Today, Danny and Cheryl remain involved with the 4-H program as supportive grandparents of eight grandchildren.
In addition to their service to 4-H and Extension, Purdums co-chaired the Greater Regional Hospice House fundraising committee and are members of the Creston Elks Lodge. Danny also served as a director for the Southern Iowa Rural Water Association, Innovative Industries and the Greater Regional Hospital Foundation. Danny retired as president of First National Bank of Creston in 2018. Cheryl is an avid equestrian, busy grandmother, and has served on the Southern Prairie YMCA board. The couple operates a family farming operation and registered Angus cowherd with son Cody.
2021 Inductees: Oliver R. and Dorothy E. Eyberg
Oliver R. and Dorothy E. Eyberg of Arispe, Iowa, certainly exemplify the 4-H Pledge, especially for their service to Union County 4-H in leadership and professional roles. Oliver was born March 14, 1920, and died Mary 23, 2007, a life-long resident of the Arispe area. He served his country during World War II from 1942 to 1945 in the 76th General Hospital, Third Army in Europe, including the Battle of the Bulge. He was the father of five children. As a widower for nearly ten years, he was very supportive of his children, helping them in their various activities of school, 4-H and church. His children were members of 4-H Clubs for at least 25 years, ending in 1990. In addition to 4-H, Oliver was an Arispe Town Council member, Arispe Methodist Church board member, as well as a member of the Afton V.F.W. Post, Union County Genealogical Society and Murray American Legion. Oliver married Dorothy E. Barleston on September 8, 1973 in Creston, Iowa.
Dorothy E. Barleston Eyberg was born August 6, 1932, in Atlantic, Iowa and grew up on a farm in Cass County with her older sister. She joined the Benton Sunshine 4-H Club in 1945 at the age of 12. She was a member for seven years and completed projects in the annual rotation system. Dorothy was also a member of the Benton Future Farmers boys club which allowed her to have baby beef projects. She exhibited for several years at the AKSARBEN 4-H Stock Show. Dorothy also served as a county 4-H officer, helped with county-wide 4-H events, attended State 4-H Girls Convention and her most memorable event was attending the American Youth Foundation Leadership Camp, in Michigan.
After graduating from Iowa State College in 1955 with a B. S. in Home Economics Education, Dorothy continued her involvement with 4-H by serving as a County Extension Home Economist in Crawford County for five years and then in Union County for 28 years, retiring in 1987. Although she worked in various Extension Education Programs, 4-H was her first love and she enjoyed working with the program. Dorothy is also a member of the Arispe United Methodist church, Union County Genealogical Society, and a member of professional organization.
Oliver and Dorothy’s family includes Oliver’s children, Roger, Ralph, Dorothy A., Richard and the late Martha.
2020 Inductee: Walt Glynn
In 1963, as the feed salesman for the newly founded Creston Feed & Grain, Walt Glynn put his experience showing and raising cattle to work in Union County. During one of his sales calls, he came across a young 4-Her fighting to break a tough steer for the county fair. Walt helped take the tough out of that steer, and he has been helping 4-H kids with cattle ever since. Raised in Cass County and active in the 4-H beef project there, Walt developed a deep passion for showing cattle. He fondly remembers the Cass County annual tradition of loading a semitrailer with beef projects and making the trip to the AKsarben Livestock Show in Omaha, Neb., for a week of exhibiting, making friends and having fun. Since making his home in Union County in 1963, if something has been happening that involves support for 4-H youth livestock projects, particularly beef projects, Walt has been involved. When the idea surfaced for a Celebrity Beef Show at the Union County Fair to raise money for ground improvements, Walt went to work and helped make it happen, recruiting businesses to participate. Once the money was raised, he kept working as a volunteer to complete a new cattle wash rack, pour cement alleys in the beef barns, expand the livestock show ring and make other needed improvements.
As a 4-H parent of four, Walt, along with wife Carol, was leader of the Douglas Boosters 4-H Club for nine years. He also served on the Union County Fair beef committee for approximately 25 years and the Union County Extension Council. He worked alongside Carol when she was a member of the Union County Fair Board. Today, if there is a beef show within driving distance of Creston, Walt is either in the barns coaching or in the stands watching. And sometimes he can be found near the semi loadout with tears in his eyes and an arm around a young shoulder as goodbyes are said. Through the years, many a 4-H kid with a calf has been taken under Walt’s wing. He loves kids and knows that when they work with livestock, they’re learning many valuable lessons and not getting into trouble.
Possibly his most notable, time-consuming, and selfless commitment to the 4-H program in Union County has been his support for the livestock auction at the fair. For more than 30 years, Walt has gathered money from local businesses and purchased animals on their behalf. Though he hasn’t always gotten the final bid on animals, Walt’s bids have ensured the buyers’ premiums were distributed comparably among all livestock exhibitors, regardless of placement or number of animals sold.
The businessperson, cattleman and farmer is a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Parish, Creston Elks and the Union County and Iowa Cattlemen’s Associations. Walt and his late wife Carol have four children, and their family includes Thane and Rachel Glynn of Creston, Matt Glynn of Ankeny, Jodi and Chad Larson of Ankeny, Dirk and Beth Glynn of Carroll and nine grandchildren.
2019 Inductees: Wayne and Joan Hartsook
Wayne and Joan Hartsook began their 4-H journey as a couple in 1960 when the first of their children joined 4-H, and they kept busy with many aspects of the program until their last daughter completed 4-H in 1985. In addition to encouraging many 4-H youth throughout Union County and the state, Wayne and Joan supported their two sons and five daughters in showing sheep, beef and dairy cattle, horses and dogs. The Hartsook children’s woodworking, clothing, food and nutrition and home furnishing exhibits and working demonstrations often went from the Union County Fair to the Iowa State Fair, Ak-Sar-Ben and the American Royal in Kansas City. Joan was co-leader of the Grant Go Getters 4-H club for 15 years and judged 4-H exhibits at many county fairs throughout the area. Both Wayne and Joan were members of the Union County Extension Council.
Since 1959, Hartsook's also supported the Union County Fair. Wayne was on the fair board for 21 years, serving as vice president and 4-H Exhibits Superintendent. He helped build most of the buildings on the fairgrounds, providing his carpentry skills through the years. As the second woman to become a member of the fair board, Joan served for six years and organized the Union County Fair Queen contest. She also was handy with a paint brush, helping keep the 4-H exhibit building looking its best.
Joan worked in the snack shack for 25 years and remembers when corn dogs were 50 cents each. Her “almost-world-famous” pies and cinnamon rolls have been served and auctioned to raise money for 4-H for too many years to count. Joan’s favorite memory of her time spent at the fair was when their daughter Diane (Sorrells) was crowned Union County Fair Queen in 1985.
Always supportive of her children and other youth, Joan became a faithful chaperone to state and national FFA events when her daughters were among the first girls to join the Creston FFA Chapter. She also served many years as a volunteer at the Greater Community Hospital gift shop and coffee shops.
For more than 45 years, Wayne, Joan and their family managed a successful dairy farm. They first sold cream and then milk while also raising chickens, hogs, beef cattle, sheep, and kids. Wayne served as president of the United Farmers' Cooperative Creamery in Afton for 12 years.
Devoted supporters of 4-H and family, these 4-H cheerleaders also traveled across Iowa, North Dakota, and Colorado to 4-H events for their grandchildren and great grandchildren. In 2017, Wayne and Joan were honored for their contributions to the Union County Fair. Sadly, Wayne left us July 30, 2018, shortly after the county fair. Union County Friends of 4-H is pleased to honor Joan and the late Wayne Hartsook as inductees to the 2019 Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame.
2018 Inductees: Bob and Joyce Cooper
Bob and Joyce Cooper of Creston in Union County have a long history with 4-H, having both been members as youth. Coopers were leaders in the days of boys’ and girls’ clubs. Bob was a co-leader for the Grant Toppers for nearly a dozen years, and Joyce was a co-leader of the Jolly Jills for just as long. In addition to supporting each of their five children through nine years of club membership, they served on the Union County Fair Board, the dairy committee and on the Union County Extension Council. In 1984, the Coopers were honored by Union County 4-H for their dedication to the program, and in 1999 the Union County Fair was dedicated to the couple, recognizing their work, contribution, and commitment through the years. Bob sums up his commitment to 4-H in few words, “I like helping kids learn.”
The couple has been married 55 years and raised five children; Mark, Penny, Julie, Terry, and the late Debbie. They have 14 grandchildren, three being involved in 4-H. Today Bob and Joyce are retired, but still enjoy watching the 4-H livestock shows and seeing the exhibits at the fair when they can.
2017 Inductees: Jack and Mona Quee
The 2017 Union County inductees to the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame are Jack and Mona Quee of Afton. Jack and Mona shared their passion for horses with three generations of 4-H youth in Union County and throughout Iowa. During the past 50 years Jack and Mona have become well known in the community for stepping up to help wherever help is needed, from organizing food for Saddle Club trail rides to cooking in lunch stands during horse shows to chaperoning a throng of kids camping at the Iowa State Fair. In 1970, they became leaders of the Horse & Riders 4-H club and were instrumental in the club’s formation and development. At the same time, Jack volunteered for the county 4-H horse committee. Though they relinquished their role as club leaders after 15 years, Jack and Mona continued to attend the club’s monthly meetings and practice sessions and to this day are there to share their wisdom through a demonstration, advice or story.
The couple remembers when horses were housed in tents at the Union County Fair, and they helped build the horse barn in 1970. They provide support, time and equipment to keep the arena in shape for shows and were instrumental in the recent refurbishing of the show arena.
Jack is always at the Union County Fair to help as a ring man, judge, gate opener or to do whatever else is needed. Jack also ran the arena gates for the Iowa State Fair 4-H Horse Show.
“It was always a comfort knowing Jack was letting your kids into the ring at the State Fair,” tells a former 4-H member whose children, and now grandchildren, benefit from Jack’s knowledge and patience. “Jack is that friendly face to calm your nerves, and though he is never quick to give advice, when he does, it is always worthwhile.”
“Nothing can take the place of practice and time with a horse. It is a lot of fun to watch these kids develop their skills, improve their confidence, and grow up,” Jack says. “When we started, I didn’t know half as much about showing as I do now. I imagine we received more out of helping the kids than they received from us,” Jack adds.
“4-H is a great way for kids to make friends and learn how to work together. It teaches them about winning, losing and other life lessons,” says Mona. “And they have fun.”
The retired couple raises horses on their farm near Afton and enjoy riding, including an annual trip to gather and move cattle from summer pastures in the Colorado mountains. They are active members of the Union County Saddle Club, serving many years as officers, and are members of Trinity Lutheran Church in Creston, where Jack served as a church elder. Their family includes daughter and son-in-law, Beth and Bruce Herzberg, three grandchildren, two great granddaughters and son, the late Lonnie Quee.
2016 Inductee: Robert Crittenden
Bob is a life-long resident of Union County, a cattleman, a farmer, an award-winning auctioneer, real estate broker, a friend and mentor to many. Bob joined the Union Royal Rustlers in 1949 and became an adult 4-H volunteer in 1976 as a member of the Union County 4-H Beef Committee. Showing market beef was Bob’s passion in 4-H, and he remembers the thrill of exhibiting the Union County Reserve Grand Champion steer in 1953 and showing beef at the Iowa State Fair. Other fond memories include being elected county 4-H vice president, receiving a blue-ribbon record book award, being selected Outstanding 4-Square 4-Her and attending 4-H camp in Madrid. For the past 30 years, Bob has been a familiar presence, almost an institution, at the Union County Fair. He can be found operating the scales for beef weigh in, offering thoughtful advice to young beef exhibitors and lending a willing hand across the grounds in general. When he isn’t busy helping, Bob is on the sidelines watching and encouraging youth as they prepare and show their exhibits.
However, Bob’s passion for the 4-H program is most evident when he holds the microphone in his hand and begins his familiar auctioneer’s chant, selling animals during the livestock auction or homemade pies, cinnamon rolls and other baked items through the Friends of 4-H Pie Auction – for the benefit of Union County 4-H youth. When Bob takes the mic, he is sure to get top dollar. As the “go to” auctioneer for all six days of the fair, Bob is known for his patience, waiting and waiting for a break in the show arena to sell pies and rolls. Sometimes selling them over and over to bring in additional dollars for the 4-H program.
Why does he do it? “It’s all about the kids, and 4-H is good for them. I see very few of our 4-H kids get into trouble,” Bob says. “And, as they get older, it is fun to see them realize how much work and effort goes into putting on the fair.”
In addition to countless hours auctioneering for 4-H, Bob is well known for auctioneering many fundraisers each year. Bob is a founding member of the Union County Cattlemen’s Association, member of the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association and was honored as the Union County Cattleman of the year in 2011. Bob served as president of the Iowa Auctioneer’s Association, was the Iowa State Fair Champion Auctioneer in 1991, was inducted into the Iowa Auctioneer’s Hall of Fame in 2006 and received the East Union Friend of Education Award in 2000, in part for serving as the auctioneer for numerous fundraisers for the school. He also raised club calves and was the breeder of the 1981 Grand Champion Steer at the National Western Livestock Show in Denver.
2015 Inductee: Mary O’Riley
Mary O’Riley is a teacher at heart. The opportunity to be a positive influence in the lives of young people and help them develop their potential to be the best they can be attracted Mary to 4-H as a young mother. She has been a devoted 4-H volunteer in Union County since becoming co-leader of the Jolly Jill’s 4-H Club in 1978. When the boys’ and girls’ clubs merged to become Platte Producers, Mary continued, serving as club leader until 1991. Mary spent part of her professional career working as a 4-H Youth Program Aide in Union County. From 1982 through 1986, she worked in the Area Extension Office as a 4-H program aide. Mary has been a 4-H exhibit judge at county fairs and the Iowa State Fair. She particularly enjoys Communications because of the opportunity to help youth present themselves in a professional manner. Within Union County, Mary is most well-known and revered for her tireless devotion and exceptional effort as the show ring announcer for the sheep, goat, swine and beef shows during the county fair. For more than 30 years, Mary has taken a week of vacation to announce the shows, an effort that began as a “fluke” during the years she was a 4-H program assistant. After noticing a lull in the arena between classes, Mary began “adlibbing” about each exhibitor. Her colorful commentary was a hit with all, so the following year, Mary took on the announcer’s role with her trademark enthusiasm.
Her goal was to recognize each exhibitor by sharing details about their non-livestock exhibits, club work, parents and achievements at the fair. With help from the Extension staff and several hours of preparation, every livestock exhibitor was recognized during each show in which they participated. As show announcer, Mary also served as the county’s assistant to the judge and ring personnel, ensuring everyone understood the process, schedule and flow for the day’s event. Mary’s is a member and officer of the Union County Friends of 4-H Foundation board. In addition, Mary is a Licensed Master Social Worker and practicing Lay Minister and will complete the PATHWAYS Theological Program in November of 2015. She is active in the United Church of Christ Congregational in Creston and has been a member of Kiwanis, St. Malachy Board of Education and director of Metanoia, while receiving Associates of Art, BA and MA degrees as an adult student and working full time.
Mary and her husband Mark farm near Creston. They are the parents of Matt and the late Misty O’Riley West. The couple has six grandchildren.
2014 Inductee: Vera Bailey
Union County Friends of 4-H has proudly selected Verna Bailey and the late Paul Bailey as 2014 inductees into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame. Verna and Paul, of Creston, became involved in Union County 4-H in the 1970’s, first as parents and then as leaders of the Douglas Boosters, serving from 1975 to 1977. Though neither had been a member of 4-H, Verna and Paul willingly took their turn as leaders. As leaders, they helped establish the continuing tradition of the annual family camp out, typically held at Green Valley State Park. Since 1955, Paul and Verna combined their love of camping and 4-H as annual State Fair campers. Many times Verna and Paul’s involvement in 4-H continued long past the time their three sons completed the program. Paul shared his love for and knowledge of beef cattle with his sons and many other young men, and eventually young women as the days of “boys’” and “girls’” clubs ended. He was a long-time member of the beef and sale committees for the Union County Fair, and Paul never missed beef show day. Verna spent many years helping with exhibits judging in the exhibit building as well as baking pies for the annual Friends of 4-H fund-raiser auction. Though their support of 4-H never waned, their enthusiasm took on a new spark once their grandchildren became 4-H members.
Because of their time, contributions and devotion to 4-H, Verna and Paul were named honorary 4-H members by the Douglas Boosters 4-H members.
Supporting and encouraging youth has always been a passion for Verna and Paul. Avid sports fans, they served as Creston Mat Boosters presidents in 1976-77. For their devotion to all youth in all activities, they were named as 2003-04 Fans of the Year by the Creston Activities Booster Club. In addition, Creston FFA Chapter members selected the couple to receive the FFA Pride Award in 2004-05.
Paul served as Lion’s Club president. Paul and Verna were officers of the Cromwell United Church of Christ, where Verna remains an active member. In 2010, the couple was Relay for Life Grand Marshalls in Union County.
Regardless of the event or activity, Paul and Verna were there; encouraging, teaching, cheering, and supporting the youth of Creston and Union County, particularly their six children, 11 grandchildren and six great grandchildren.
2013 Inductees: Dennis and Pauline Sweet
It is in a quiet and unassuming way that Dennis and Pauline Sweet of Arispe, Iowa, have supported 4-H through the years. Dennis, who inherited his father’s love for children and working with youth, began as a 4-H member in Ringgold County, then switched to Union County 4-H when his father Francis founded the first club in Pleasant Township, Pleasant Pals, where Dennis and his siblings were members. Dennis served as treasurer, secretary and president and remembers learning a lot, particularly the importance of recordkeeping through his work as club treasurer. His project work focused on showing sheep, and he loved working with the animals. His remembers his first lamb weighed 120 pounds, and was of course, a bit spoiled. Even at the fair, it would drink water only from a nipple bottle. Dennis and Pauline had no children of their own, but Dennis was always available to help members with their sheep projects before and during the fair, and to haul animals, restored tractors and many other exhibits to county and state fairs. Many years, his car trailer was used as the base for the fair parade float for a nearby club. He never requested payment and rarely, if ever, accepted payment and then only in protest.
Dennis and Pauline volunteered for many years on the Union County Fair Board. The Snack Shack was their area of responsibility, keeping everyone supplied with cotton candy, lemonade and ice cream. Pauline remembers many long hours in the cook shack, and when the fair was all over, Dennis hauled lambs to the processing plant following the livestock auction. A big part of this involved comforting the young members who were saying goodbye to their lambs. Those who know Dennis and his soft heart, understand he had a tough time not tearing-up himself.
For nearly 35 years the couple has supported the Union County Fair Livestock Auction. Dennis takes his usual seat during the auction, buying animals from members in his area of the county, particularly the youngest members, just getting started in the 4-H program.
Pauline is well known for her famous pies and annually donates six to 10 fruit or pecan pies for auction in support of local scholarships, camps, project materials and Clover Kid program supplies. The reputation of her delicacies always brings the top dollar at the auction. Each year, Pauline says it will be her last, but as the Union County Fair rolls around she will be getting her pies ready.
Why the devotion to helping kids by supporting the 4-H program? “Well,” says Dennis, “I just think that 4-H is especially important for the kids. It is a good program, It helps kids in a lot of ways. I guess too, like my dad, I really enjoy the kids.”
In addition to their devotion to 4-H, Dennis and Pauline are very active in the Shannon City Community Church, where Dennis serves as Treasurer. They both have been school bus drivers and Dennis served on the Union County Sherriff’s reserves. They have a son, two daughters, four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
2012 Inductee: Darwin West
Darwin started 4-H as a member in Montgomery County where he showed cattle. Then he moved to Union County and later married his wife June. Darwin has been involved in 4-H for many years and in many ways. He was a leader of Platte Producers when his son, Rod, was a 4-Her, who showed Charolais Cattle. His daughter, Rachel, was a member of the Horse and Riders club. His grandson Tyson is a 4-H member and is showing cattle now. He started auctioning at the Union County fair in 1980, starting with the pens of 3 cattle. He has auctioned livestock ever since. He worked to get larger premiums from businesses and 4-H supporters so all 4-Hers who sold livestock got a fair price for their animals. He has emceed the Celebrity Steer Show at the Union County fair for many years. Darwin has always been quick to offer help with 4-H fundraisers for different clubs or to raise money for the Union County fair. He auctioned off many different things such as box dinners or 4-Hers at a slave auction. He auctions pies and baked goods at the Union County fair every summer to raise money for the Union County 4-H Foundation to fund scholarships, camps, conferences and needed help for the 4-H programs.
Darwin has always enjoyed kids and watching them grow up. He keeps track of the kids whether driving them to school or athletic events or taking them on field trips as a school bus driver for the Creston Community School District or announcing their arrival on the red carpet at the Creston High School prom or by auctioning off their livestock at the Union County fair sale.
Darwin says, “Kids are his business” and he has enjoyed many great relationships with numerous kids throughout the years. He is a loyal friend of 4-Hers in Union County!
2011 Inductee: Carol Glynn
Whether Carol Glynn was searching for treasures at a garage sale or junk shop or teaching a shy, awkward young 4-Her self-confidence and other life-skills, she was the epitome of “to make the best better.” With staunch determination, no amount of external tarnish or internal doubt ever deterred Carol from achieving the result she believed was possible. Raised on a farm near Wiota, Carol Jeppesen Glynn developed her passion for 4-H and its teachings as a girls’ club member in Cass County. As Carol and husband Walt, also a former 4-Her, raised their four children on the farm just south of Creston, they served several years as leaders of the Douglas Boosters 4-H club. The Glynn children might reflect on their mother’s passion, determination and commitment to 4-H more as insistence and just plain “pushing”, but that was all a part of Carol’s well-meaning personality and the characteristics that helped her enrich the lives of the youth she worked with through 4-H. She was never shy about saying, “I just think it should be done like (fill in the blank), or “this would be a great project, let’s get started.”
During the years as 4-H leader and 4-H parent, Carol’s involvement expanded beyond the typical roll of leader and became one more of surrogate parent to her extended family of Douglas Boosters club members and 4-H youth across Union County and southwest Iowa. Year after year, Carol was at the wheel taking a car full of kids to 4-H camp, stopping in Adair County or other spots along the way to pick up someone who needed a ride. Many a youngster learned to bake cookies, pies and cakes in Carol’s kitchen or to grow vegetables or flowers at the Glynn farm. Carol often took under her motherly wing a child who may not have been able to experience the 4-H program if it had not been for her commitment, caring, time and resources.
Refinishing furniture and turning trash to treasure were some of her best-loved hobbies that she delighted in sharing with 4-H members. Clothing selection projects often came from second-hand shops and this practice of Carol’s was the inspiration for a project area specifically for second-hand clothing purchases. She loved to take something old or out of sorts and transform it. That included putting her loving wisdom and steady, encouraging hands to work transforming many children into self-confident and capable young adults.
Carol Glynn touched the lives of young people who will proudly carry on her legacies of turning trash to treasure and unselfishly giving to others. Carol, 67 lost her life to breast cancer on January 9, 2011. She is survived by husband Walt, children Thane and Rachel Glynn of Creston; Matt Glynn of Ankeny Jodi and Chad Larson of Ankeny, Dirk and Beth Glynn of Carroll and nine grandchildren.
2010 Inductees: Dr. Alvin and Patricia Pokorny
Dr. Al and Pat Pokorny are very humbled and honored to represent the many people of Union County who keep the 4-H program strong. Their greatest joy in serving 4-H has been to watch a young, shy 4-Her blossom into a mature, confident adult ready to be an asset to the community. They believe working together as a family to carry out the goals and projects of 4-H is one of the greatest benefits 4-H offers families. Al and Pat’s involvement in 4-H is the union of an experienced 4-Her and his city bride. As young parents new to the area, they found 4-H to be a way to help them become immersed in their community. Al’s 4-H experience began in the Clutier Cowboys of Tama County. Active in swine and beef projects, Al served his club in every office. After purchasing Dr. Craig Larson’s veterinary clinic and moving to Union County, Al supported and promoted the sheep project to all 4-Hers as an economical livestock project well suited to the abilities of younger members. As a 4-H Club leader he strongly encouraged financial record keeping as the basis for an important life-long skill. His support of the sheep program included many years serving on the Midcrest Area Sheep Show committee. He also served on the Union County Extension Council.
A Des Moines high school graduate with no previous 4-H experience, Pat became a 4-H wife and mother working with Al to lead the Douglas Boosters 4-H club during their three-year rotation. She also spent three years as the 4-H aid in Union County and devoted long hours coordinating the many 4-H activities at the county fair. Pat particularly values 4-H for its family-inclusive nature. This provided their family with the opportunity to work together and to meet and work with other like-minded families across the county.
In addition to numerous hours spent making learning and leadership opportunities available to the youth in Union County, Al and Pat also have given generously through the annual 4-H livestock sale and with financial contributions to Union County 4-H Foundation. Pat can always be counted on to bake pies for the annual 4-H Foundation Pie Auction.
Their establishment of the Chris Pokorny Memorial Achievement Award for Union County in honor of their son typifies their strong commitment to and belief in the 4-H program.
Both Al and Pat have also volunteered in numerous capacities for their church, school, and community organization.
2009 Inductee: Ruby M. Stephens
Ruby Stephens started her career with 4-H in Pleasant Township in Union County in the mid 1940’s. She and husband
the first 4-H horse club in Iowa in 1964. They have six children all of whom were in 4-H and two have served as 4-H leaders with the Horse and Riders club started by Ruby and husband, John. Grandchildren are also involved in 4-H with one grandson gracing the cover of the Rules and Regulations for 4-H Equine Shows in Iowa.
Together, they were leaders of 4-H clubs in Union County for 18 years, receiving the Pearl Clover Award for 15 years of service. Ruby also served on the 4-H County Committee. Not content with retirement from farming, Ruby continues to volunteer throughout the community and with the 4-H program. She bakes pies for the 4-H Endowment Board auction conducted at the 4-H horse show and other livestock shows during the county fair. You can always find Ruby in her lawn chair under the shade tree near the horse arena ready to cheer for and support not just grandchildren but other youth participants as they develop their skills in horsemanship.
2008 Inductee: Sharon Bennett
From the time my mother told me to help my little sister, 7 years younger, with 4-H energy it has been my pleasure to assist other 4-Hers,” recalls Sharon Bennett, Union County’s 4-H Hall of Fame nominee. She has served 4-H in many ways. In 1951 she joined girls 4-H, and then later boys club so she could exhibit both home economics projects and beef projects throughout the 8 years of 4-H club membership. She also served as president of the Union County girl’s 4-H, helped with county rally day and state 4-H conference, initiated a Sand Creek achievement night to display 4-H to her township, organized the placement of 4-H signs at entry points to the county and demonstrated at the county and state fair.
After marriage, Sharon and husband Louie hosted young people from Germany, Colorado, and from the Homes of Oakridge in Des Moines because of their continued 4-H connection. She took leadership for starting a senior 4-H club in the county that divided into an east and west coed club and then melded back to one known as Senior Ambassadors, led by Sharon and Louie along with Karen and Ron Simpson. 4-Her’s participating in that experience learned the value of earning the necessary funds to plan and take a trip to Washington D. C.
As leader of the Douglas Boosters 4-H Club Sharon assisted members with projects and with record books as part of the leadership responsibilities. Sharon has been recognized as 4-H alumni in Union County, has served on the Extension Council, striving to keep 4-H strong and relevant to the youth membership.
Sharon currently serves on the Friends of 4-H Endowment Board, helping to raise funds and distribute those funds in the form of scholarships to youth who have exhibited strong leadership and citizenship skills through their 4-H project work.
2007 Inductee: Charles Ehm
As Extension Director in Union County from 1962-1965. Charles (Chuck) Ehm was involved in every aspect of the 4-H program, from member to leader to county director and community stakeholder. He developed a strong 4-H leader’s training program providing a solid foundation of skill development for leaders.
Chuck organized the first co-ed 4-H club in Union County, still known today as the Sand Creek Pioneers. Both he and his wife, Joellen, were leaders and were honored with Honorary 4-H Membership status in Union County. Parents and even some grandparents of current 4-H members remember the encouragement of Chuck to make their best better and are continuing the tradition of 4-H as a family activity.
· Assisted in establishing the State 4-H campgrounds;
· Developed a strong 4-H leader’s program;
· Organized a 4-H leaders Camp at State 4-H Camp;
· Assisted with 4-H member color coordination program;
· Developed a 4-H promotion slide show for clubs;
· Organized a 4-H member Exchange program with a 4-H group in Saskatchewan, Canada;
· Conducted the State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest at the State Fairgrounds; Organized the first co-ed 4-H club called the Sand Creek Pioneers;
· Chuck and Joellen Ehm were 4-H leaders for many years in the Sand Creek Pioneers 4-H club in Union County;
· Chuck and his wife were honored as Honorary 4-H Alumni in Union County;
· Chuck was a member of the Iowa 4-H Foundation.
2006 Inductee: Sandra Cheers
Sandra’s 4-H involvement began in her youth as she received state recognition in home economics project work and as a member of the Illinois State 4-H council. She was champion of “making the best better” as she pulled the best from Union County youth through her years of club leadership and county and state participation. Her three children were all career 4-H youth and now her grandchildren continue her legacy. Sandra’s life and leadership career were cut short by cancer as she passed away at age 49 in September 1992.
Sandra Cheers was 4-H leader of Sand Creek Pioneers 4-H Club in Union County for over 15 years. She was also a member of the Union County 4-H Foundation, Extension Council, a regional 4-H home economics judge, a participant in the Minnesota/Iowa LEAD program, and a member of the State Advisory Board to the ISU Extension Council. As a 4-H leader and supporter of youth development Sandra encouraged each member to build life skills through setting goals for project work, practicing parliamentary procedure at all meetings, and completing the 4-H year with a record book. The Sand Creek Pioneers continue to use the logo that Sandy designed to represent the heritage of the club.
2005 Inductee: Mary Clayton
Mary Clayton was a long term 4-H volunteer in Union County and for the Iowa State 4-H program. She initiated the Union County Unicorns 4-H club in the late 70’s and it continues today. Due to her legacy the club continues to thrive with a strong community service component. Mary also contributed to the Iowa 4-H program by being a strong advocate for the consumer management subject matter area as a new project area. She continued her support of that project area by taking leadership for the consumer management department at the Iowa State Fair.
Mary was known by many across southwest Iowa as a true educator while evaluating and encouraging young people in their project work at local county fairs. She contributed many hours of volunteer time to make sure that young people, particularly those at risk, had the support of a caring and nurturing adult. Mary was often called upon for evaluating the communications event at the Iowa State Fair.
Mary was not a 4-Her during her youth but strongly believed in the program that gave her two children the foundation for leading healthy, productive lives through application of the knowledge base and principles of 4-H club work.
Union County Friends of 4-H Endowment Board is proud to induct Mary Clayton into the 4-H Hall of Fame.
2004 Inductee: Carl Eklund
Carl Eklund supported the ideals of 4-H youth development for over nineteen years in Union County. While he was not in 4-H himself he supported the program as his five grandchildren developed and applied the life skills learned through 4-H in the ‘50’s and ‘60’s.
As member and president of the county fair board he was adamant about the fair experience being one of learning and fun for all citizens of Union County but particularly for 4-H members. He was a well-known cattle producer, community supporter and advocate for 4-H experiences for youth.
2002 Inductee: Judge Maxwell
Judge Maxwell is credited with being one of the initial organizers of club work in Union County. In 1922 he was responsible for providing purebred gilts to boys enrolled in the Maxwell Pig Club. Nineteen boys entered the club and finished the work. One litter from this club won over $120 in cash prizes at the Iowa State Fair in 1922. A girls’ canning club was also organized this year but due to a late start did not get as much canning done to qualify for awards other than being recognized as a club. Judge Maxwell’s pig club went on to “form a Sow and Litter Club in 1923 giving boys practical work in pig raising” as recorded in the 1922 Annual Extension Report.
Union County recognizes his contribution of both time and animals to make the first 4-H club a reality.
--Information from Iowa 4-H Foundation.org
