Canyon Coyotes 4-H Club Honors Dual Winners of Chris Carroll Award

The Canyon Coyotes 4-H Club recently awarded the prestigious Chris Carroll Award to two senior members, marking a rare tie in the club’s history. Both Michael Chourbagi and Evelett Sparks were recognized for their significant contributions to the club, highlighting the spirit of service and community embodied by the award’s namesake.

Named after Chris Carroll, a former member who dedicated his time to helping others, the award honors seniors who demonstrate unwavering dedication to their peers. According to a statement from the club, the recipients must be in good standing and exhibit a genuine concern for the safety and success of fellow members. They should also be willing to serve without seeking recognition and conduct themselves with humility and maturity.

Chourbagi, the club’s treasurer, and Sparks, serving as the club reporter, both expressed their surprise and gratitude upon receiving the award. Sparks noted, “I was extremely surprised, honored, and grateful to receive this award. I was very close to crying when the things that the people said about me were read.”

The Canyon Coyotes 4-H Club is dedicated to fostering leadership and community service among its members. According to Shirley Byrne, a leader within the club, Carroll was a passionate and devoted member from 1994 to 2001. He took part in various livestock projects, including sheep, swine, and beef, and served as the club president during the 1999-2000 4-H year.

“Chris had a gift for helping others. Throughout his years with the Coyotes, leaders and members alike learned that they could always depend on Chris to lend a helping hand. Chris was always there, no matter what,” Byrne stated. “And, he never sought recognition for all that he did.”

Tragically, July 2, 2012, marked a significant loss for the Canyon Coyotes when Carroll, a member of the U.S. Forest Service, passed away in an accident while responding to a fire. The club continues to honor his legacy through the Chris Carroll Award, ensuring that his spirit of service lives on among its members.

This year’s tie for the award not only reflects the contributions of Chourbagi and Sparks but also underscores the values that the Canyon Coyotes 4-H Club aims to instill in its members. As the club moves forward, it remains committed to fostering an environment where service, dedication, and community support are paramount.