LEWISTOWN, Ill. - The Fulton County 4-H Public Presentations Contest was held this year in a different way, reflecting current concerns about hosting in-person events. 4-H members in this project had the option of sending in videos of their presentations, which were reviewed and scored. Three 4-H members participated. 4-H is the youth education program of University of Illinois Extension.

Elizabeth Reed gave a speech on the importance of music in the school system. Jaclyn Janssen gave a speech on depression and suicide in the agriculture industry. Aliyah Janssen gave an oral interpretation of a humorous skit about an actress preparing for a role.

All participants received Blue ratings. All three were selected to move on to the State virtual judging. Elizabeth Reed was named Best of Show Winner.

Public Speaking is an important skill for youth to gain, and is practiced regularly in the 4-H program, through talks and demonstrations at 4-H club meetings and more. Learning to speak in front of even a few people can be less scary when the audience members are your friends. For more information on 4-H in Fulton County, email jblout@illinois.edu or call the University of Illinois Extension office at 547-3711.