Two Richland County 4-H Members Earn Taste Of Success At National 4-H Congress

Danica Denowh, daughter of Chad and Jen Denowh, Sidney, and Claire Steinbeisser, daughter of Jim and MayAnn Steinbeisser, Sidney, competed in "Stir Ups" at Montana State 4-H Congress, July 9-13. Despite winning a Richland County cooking workshop, making salsa, and thorough preparation, Danica and Claire were still shocked to hear their names called as the winners of the contest featuring 4-H member contestants from all over Montana! Their victory earned them a trip to National Congress, Atlanta, GA, at the end of this month. They will leave Thanksgiving Day with the rest of the members from Montana who earned their spots as well. From Nov. 29 to Dec. 3, Claire and Danica will represent Montana and Richland County as delegates at 4-H's largest annual event.

The contest itself was something the girls had seen and felt would be "something fun to do" while at State Congress. This year's theme was pizza, and while they knew what most of the ingredient list they could use, there was also a mystery ingredient they would have to find a use for once on the clock. They made several practice runs at home, making sure to get their timing correct. The contest not only judges on the food itself, but food preparation safety, kitchen practices, cleaning as you go, presentation, teamwork, and their interview skills with the panel of judges. They purchased placemats and plates to raise the bar for their presentation; participants were required to provide their own plates for the finished product. Their chosen secret ingredient was balsamic vinegar, which they used to create a glaze for the pizza. This ended up being the choice that "elevated their dish above the rest" according to the judges. Their other surprise ingredient was Italian sausage. They had practiced with regular sausage, and felt the Italian sausage was a natural improvement.

In 13 years as the Richland County Extension Agent, Josie Evenson had yet to have any members participate in the contest. Before awards night, she encouraged the girls repeatedly to change into nicer clothes, "just because". Claire found this funny later, as she said she and Danica completely missed the hint and Josie could not share how anyone had placed in their competitions. They did end up changing, and Danica said they were surprised when they were announced as the winners. She and Claire had seen the other participants' pizzas and were not expecting to come out on top, but their complete package put them ahead of the rest. Claire said her favorite moment was when they were announced together, and Danica really enjoyed cooking with Claire and the plating and presentation part of the contest.

Safe travels to Claire and Danica, and the rest of Montana's delegates, as they represent Richland County at National 4-H Congress.