Winnebago County 4-H held its first 4-H show of 2024 on Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at the University of Illinois Extension Office.  Four area youth presented speeches on a variety of topics.  “What a wonderful representation by our 4-H members tonight, “ stated Becky Gocken, Extension Program Coordinator for Winnebago County 4-H Youth & Development.  “It was evident the kids had practiced and prepared for this contest.  They are all winners in my book!”

Rachel Medearis, language arts teacher for 20 years, 4-H alumni and previous 4-H leader provided feedback and judging.  “This year, our Public Speaking event took place during a snowstorm, but all of our presenters were prepared and excited. We had some return speakers who showed so much passion for their topics, it was great to see how much they have grown. Also, some new speakers had unique and creative ways to share information. These skills will stay with them throughout their lives, so it is great to have practice at a young age! I'm so happy to be part of 4-H and helping our youth with these important life skills,” states Medearis.

Addison Coke of the Owen Blue Bonnets 4-H club received a champion award for her beginner level speech about why pink should be a color in the rainbow.   Claire Hopkins also of the Owen Blue Bonnets 4-H club received champion at the advanced level for her speech on the importance of music lessons.  Kathleen Harrington of the Clover Crusaders 4-H club was the advanced reserve champion for her speech on the importance of classical literature.  Kathleen, Claire and Addison received state fair delegate ribbons.   The Illinois State 4-H Public Speaking contest will be held on April 27, 2024 at Parkland Community College in Champaign.

Beckett Garrison of the Owen Blue Bonnets 4-H club received class winner for his memorized oral interpretation of the Lewis Carroll’s poem, “The Jabberwocky.”

Winnebago- Boone County Farm Bureau manager Ann Marie Cain presented two incentive gifts to Claire Hopkins and Addison Coke for participating in both the 4-H & Farm Bureau Public Speaking Training held on February 6, 2024 and the 4-H Public Speaking Contest.

Winnebago County Extension would like to extend our appreciation to our judge, 4-H families, volunteers and the Winnebago-Boone County Farm Bureau for their continued support of our youth.

For more information about 4-H in Winnebago County or volunteering, contact Becky Gocken, Winnebago County 4-H and Youth Development Program Coordinator, at the University of Illinois Extension office by phone: 815-986-4357, email: rgocken@illinois.edu or by visiting go.illinois.edu/jsw.