Tuscarawas County 4-H alumni to hold reunion Aug. 13

Tuscarawas County 4-H alumni, committee members and current or former advisors will hold a special reunion Wednesday, Aug. 13, from 4-7 p.m. at Breitenbach Winery on Old Route 39 in Dover.

The event is open to anyone age 18 and older with ties to the 4-H program. Cindy Lattner, who is coordinating the reunion, said the gathering will be a chance to reconnect, reminisce and celebrate the positive impact of 4-H through the years.

Lattner encourages attendees to reflect on their experience by writing a personal impact statement responding to the prompt: How has your experience in 4-H shaped who you are today, and what lasting impact has it had on your personal or professional life?

Those unable to attend are invited to email their statement to Cindylattner2011@gmail.com. Lattner said the testimonials may be used in future 4-H marketing and outreach.

Former 4-H member Marina Armstrong Colombo shared the influence 4-H had on her life: "Through 4-H I learned the importance of civic duty and community responsibility. Growing up in a rural area with no neighborhood friends, 4-H gave me a network that extended beyond my region to all across Ohio. It opened opportunities I would otherwise have never known. Now nearing the end of a 35-year career as a classroom teacher and administrator, I am confident that my 4-H experience laid the foundation for my success."

The event schedule includes casual visiting at 4 p.m., followed by a short program highlighting memories and milestones, and a group photo of attendees in green and white. Live music by local artist Kiersten Rochelle will begin at 7 p.m.

Donations will be accepted at the event for the Tuscarawas County 4-H Endowment Fund, which supports the next generation of 4-H educators. Lattner noted that if $1,000 is raised, the Ohio 4-H Foundation will match the contribution.

No reservations are required to attend.

"We hope to see all alumni there," Lattner said.