“I see the efforts of adult volunteers all year, and I really appreciate what they do to enhance our 4-H experiences,” said 4-H Ambassador Evan Lamberg, an 11th grader from Foley, when asked why it was important for him to participate in the Benton County 4-H Mystery Meal. “I wanted to be a part of the Mystery Meal to show my thanks and provide the adults with fun experiences, just like they make possible for us.” The Mystery Meal, hosted by the 4-H Ambassadors to show parents and volunteers appreciation, has been a longstanding tradition in Benton County 4-H.
Each March, the ambassadors transform the 4-H Leader’s Council Meeting into a special occasion for all the adults. “It is important to hold the Mystery Meal to show appreciation for what our families and adult volunteers do to support us throughout the year,” said Skylar Morris, 12th grader from Foley and President of the Leader’s Council. “I loved watching the adults engage in the fun activities we planned for them, especially when my dad participated in ‘butt writing,’ which was hilarious.” Scott Morris, a parent, chaperone, and adult volunteer, demonstrated “butt writing,” which involves spelling their name using that body part. Adults were warned that if they cheated during the evening, that would be their consequence.
“Welcome everyone to the Get Challenged, Try Something New, Mystery Meal,” said the Vice President and 4-H Ambassador, Mason Arnold, 11th grader from Foley, as he welcomed everyone to the special evening. “This year’s theme for the 4-H Ambassadors is ‘Get Challenged, Try Something New.’ During our Ambassador Retreat, Ann encouraged us to step out of our comfort zones and challenge ourselves.” Each ambassador had been asked to come up with three goals for 2025, including one that involved trying something new. Mason explained the 4-H Extension Educators' plans for the year: “Ann has already been messaging us ambassadors to check on our goals. Rumor has it she will continue this throughout the entire 4-H year to track our progress.” Each of the twenty-eight 4-H ambassadors introduced themselves and shared one of their goals.
“I believe the ambassadors did an excellent job of writing and sharing details about their 2025 Get Challenged theme. Many of them set realistic goals and developed thoughtful challenges,” expressed Adult 4-H Volunteer Joyce Belanger. “The ambassadors provided the adults with creative and engaging activities, making it enjoyable to see everyone focused and competitive. The Mystery Meal, in particular, is always a highlight, as it’s fun to figure out which food item corresponds to the theme word. This event consistently draws a large attendance from adults because of the laughter it generates.”
The 4-H ambassadors organized three different challenges for the adults, which included balancing ping pong balls on solo cups and maneuvering markers on a string. Bursts of laughter filled the room, with a bit of playful cheating occurring as they attempted the challenges. “Having the adults participate in the challenges made it super fun and relaxed, allowing us to get to know some of the adults better,” said 4-H Ambassador Lila Hughes, a 9th grader from St. Cloud. “It was neat to be in charge of a table, interact, meet new people, and spend time laughing with them.” Other ambassadors also shared their enjoyment of the evening. “Being a table server was exciting, as I got to socialize with many adults I didn’t really know and hear their thoughts about the evening,” said 4-H Ambassador Hailey Manea, an 8th grader from Sauk Rapids.
After the adults completed their challenges, it was time to discuss the Mystery Meal. “The Mystery Meal consists of three courses, each with three items served at a time,” explained 4-H Ambassador Raelee Lyon, an 11th grader from Becker. “You’ll fill out a menu order form, but you won’t know what you’re getting, hence the mystery.” On the menu, items associated with fitness or challenges were listed, such as treadmills, marathons, and barbells. Little did the adults know that ordering "marathon" actually meant nacho cheese. During the first course, some adults received just a spoon (barbells), a fork (pull-up bar), and a dollop of sour cream (medicine ball). The adults were busy trying to decipher which words matched which menu items. “I was in awe of our 4-H ambassador servers for not revealing the answers as we pressed them to know,” remarked Adult 4-H Volunteer Kevin Kuklok. “I was impressed that they held their ground until the end.”
Overall, it was an exciting and eventful evening. “Our 4-H ambassadors did a fantastic job taking charge of the meeting, planning, and preparing an event for the adult volunteers this year,” exclaimed 4-H Adult Volunteer Justin Hackett. “They are all strong leaders, and Benton County 4-H is well represented by dedicated youth.”