Julie Clubb and Teresa Hanshaw have been pillars of the Jefferson County 4-H program for decades, and now menbers of the Greater Jefferson County fair Hall of Fame.
Their journey began as members of the Country Daisies 4-H Club, co-led by their mother, Marilyn, which later merged with the Walnut Ridge Workers, led by their father, Dennis Thomes. As youth, they were involved in a variety of projects—rabbits, poultry, beef, sheep, visual arts, food & nutrition, woodworking, and more—while also serving on the 4-H Teen County Council.
4-H runs deep in their family. With multiple siblings, children, and now grandchildren involved, Julie and Teresa have carried the tradition forward by co-leading the Walnut Ridge Workers and Lockridge Clover Kids clubs for the past 16–17 years. Their families have stayed active in rabbit, poultry, beef, and static exhibits, among others.
For the past 4–5 years, the sisters have served as superintendents of the rabbit and poultry barn—affectionately known as “Denny’s Barn” in honor of their father. They’ve also become pullorum-certified to perform testing for local and state fairs and helped lead the effort to upgrade cages in the barns.
Julie and Teresa have always gone the extra mile—whether helping in the barns, mentoring young members, or volunteering in their community. Their advice to 4-H’ers: “Anything is possible. Put in the hard work, and be proud of stepping outside your comfort zone. Learning is growing.”
Their legacy of service, leadership, and family tradition continues to inspire Jefferson County youth and strengthen the 4-H community.