Johnson County 4-H Leaders Recognized at 2026 Fair

The 2026 Johnson County 4-H Leader Awards were presented at the Johnson County Fair just prior to the Premium Sale on Sunday night, August 16. Recipients of this year's 4-H Leader awards include: Colby Thies, Leader Under Five Years; Brian Schmidt, Friend of 4-H; Loren Johnson, Leader Over Five Years; Wesley Schmid, Junior Leader; and Sierra Goracke, Alumni.
A profile of how each 4-H Leader Award recipient has contributed to Johnson County's 4-H program is as follows:
Colby Thies (Leader under 5 years) - Colby has spent time as a wonderful goat superintendent at the Johnson County Fair, as well as being the Sterling 4-H Club leader for the last few years. She brings a positive attitude to everything she does and has been an asset to the Johnson County Extension office and her club.
Brian Schmidt (Friend of 4-H) - Brian has always been one call away to help with any and all Horse program activities. He has been responsible for the care of the arena during all shows for the last few years; the Johnson County 4-H Council really appreciates his attention to detail and help with the 4-H program. 
Loren Johnson (Leader over 5 years)- Loren has been a leader in Johnson County's poultry program both for 4-H and in the open class.  He is always willing to answer questions for both youth and parents.  Loren is always willing to step in to announce a show or assist with the premium sale.  
Wesley Schmid (Junior Leader) - Wesley has been a crucial youth member of Johnson County's 4-H council, bringing insight and information to and from his club and other youth members. Wesley is first in line to lend a helping hand; he not only assists the Johnson County Extension office but everyone around who needs it. Wesley is an extremely hard worker and a pillar for 4-H values.
Sierra Goracke (Alumni)- As a former Johnson County 4-H member, Sierra has taken it upon herself to return and lend a hand during Johnson County's 4-H livestock shows at the Johnson County Fair. She is hands-on with the youth and also does announcing. Sierra takes exceptional care in everything she does, while bringing a lighthearted air of fun to everything she participates in.