The Illinois 4-H Foundation has the privilege of honoring extraordinary 4-H alumni, volunteers, and former 4-H staff at the State Fair every year. This year, Crawford County’s own Bonnie Weger received this honor.

Weger was a six year member of the Cheery Chums 4-H Club in Crawford County and ultimately became a club leader for twelve years for the Porterville Pals 4-H Club. She currently serves as a 4-H Fair judge, volunteer, and 4-H grandma.

Over the past 37 years, Weger has been involved in many 4-H activities including livestock weigh-ins, county 4-H camp, lock-ins, talent shows, ag day, and 4-H fair judging. Bonnie and her husband Gene have sponsored many awards, activities and programs for Crawford County. Most recently, the Weger’s sponsored the majority of the Master Showmanship competition, the first one in Crawford County since the 1980’s. 

Weger says her most memorable 4-H moment growing up was making a 3-piece suit and being chosen to participate in the Fashion Revue.

All youth who are ages 8-18 as of September 1 of this year are welcome to join 4-H.  For more information about 4-H and other clubs in Crawford County, please visit our website at go.illinois.edu/cce or call University of Illinois Extension Office at 618-546-1549.