Northeast
Northwest
North Central
Central
South Central/Crescent
Southeast
Southwest

Northeast

Emily Cooper

In the year of 2004 when I was in the fourth grade I began my first year of 4-H. I am now finishing my eighth grade year of school, and I have been faithful to 4-H for five years. Every year I have experienced countless educational and rewarding 4-H programs. These programs focused both on finding myself and helping out my community. In the seventh grade, I joined the 4-H Junior Leader’s Club that allowed me to participate in community projects. By joining this club, I was given the chance to lead younger 4-Hers in group activities. I am currently a 4-H reporter and my club’s treasurer. In the seventh grade, my beef poster was awarded first place in my division. I believe I am qualified to be a Regional Representative because I have had five years of experience in 4-H, I’m a quick learning hard worker, and I’d like to be given this opportunity to prove to myself and others that I would be an excellent Regional Representative.

Jade Pilcher

During my seven years of 4-H Club work, my project work has been focused on Fashion Revue, and Foods and Nutrition. I became involved in my parish Jr. Leadership Club and Fashion, Food, and Fitness Club. These experiences plus the opportunity to serve in a variety of leadership positions for my local club, led to my interest in becoming involved in statewide 4-H events and leadership positions.

I have been a member of the State 4-H Fashion Board for two years and served the Northeast Region as regional representative last year. At school, I serve on Student council, Beta Club, dance team, and was elected President of my high school 4-H Club this year. As a result of being elected regional representative, I was invited to join the LSU AgCenter Advisory Leadership Council for the nine parishes in the northeast region. I maintain a GPA of 4.0 to follow the Honors and TOPS curriculum.

These experiences have provided me with skills and opportunities to better represent the 4-H program in the northeast region of the state. I look forward to the opportunity to serve and provide leadership on the State 4-H Executive Board.

Northwest

Victoria Arnold

4-H had made a difference just not in my life but as well as many others. I joined 4-H six years ago. I was involved by attending many camps, and meeting new people. Before too long, I was our local club President for two years. Helping out with our parish as a local Jr. Leader was only a small responsibility that I had. I attended 4-H University for three years and I received a blue ribbon each year, which was an accomplishment. For the school year of 2007-2008, I currently serve on the State Food and Fitness Board. I began helping people throughout the state, being a role model, and making a difference. It would give me great pleasure to serve on the Executive Committee. I believe I am qualified to serve as a Regional Representative because of my dedication, hard work, leadership skills, and being able to connect with my peers.

Haley LaCaze

Hello, my name is Haley LaCaze. I am the fourteen year old daughter of Lynn and Danny LaCaze of Mathaville. I also have one younger brother, Jake, who is also a 4-H member. I have been an active member of 4-H for 9 years. Since joining 4-H in the fourth grade, I have held many offices including Club Reporter, Historian and most recently served two years as Jr. High President. I am also a member of the Natchitoches Parish Jr. Leader club where I serve as Treasurer. By serving various offices in my local clubs I have gained a better understanding of parliamentarian procedures and learned how to work with a diverse group of people. My leadership expands beyond my parish where I am serving Vice President of the Junior Louisiana Goat Association. Through this office I have worked with many youth all over the state.

My activity does not stop there. I have attended many 4-H Camps both as a camper and trained camp counselor. These include: 4-H Summer Camp, Challenge Camp, Jr. Leadership Conference, Camp Roughin’ It, and 4-H University. I have won numerous awards for my goat and dairy livestock projects at shows around the state as well as placing 4^th in the FCS Demonstration last year at 4-H University. I am currently a member of the United States Boer Goat Association, the American Jersey Association, and the National Pygmy Goat Association.

I feel I would be an asset to the 2009-10 State 4-H Executive Committee as a Regional Representative. Not only do I feel very strong about the benefits of the 4-H program, but I work well with others and exemplify strong leadership skills. If elected for the Northwest region I will carry out my duty by representing all youth in my region and sharing their ideas with the board. For these reasons I would be honored to serve as regional representative and know I would be a wonderful addition to the board.

Joshua Maxir

My name is Joshua Maxir; I am running for the 2009-2010 Northwest Regional Representative on the State Executive Board. I will be a senior during my term on the State Executive Board if I am fortunate to serve as my regions representative.

My 4-H history begins when I was just in the third grade. At the school I attended there was only on club you could join the in the fourth grade and that was 4-H. In the beginning, I just did it because I could get out of class and there would be a fun skating trip in December. But that all changed when I got involved with my parish’s junior leader club, which was the year that I went to 4-H University. After that I realized that I wanted to become more involved in this organization.

It has been four years since I realized that I wanted to become more involved with 4-H. I have been able to serve on the Food & Fitness Board. From being on that board, I learned that you can’t do everything yourself and that you must learn to trust in other peoples abilities. Thank you for letting me tell you about my life.

Daniel McFarland

My name is Daniel McFarland, and I live on the Flying Eagle Ranch in Keithville. I am from a devoted 4-H family, my dad, my older brother, and sister were very active in the 4-H program. I am a member of the Quatrefoil 4-H club of Caddo Parish. One of the things I love the most about 4-H is my beef project. Traveling around the state and country with my show cattle is one of the highlights of my project. I also love the opportunities that 4-H affords me in the area of leadership. I feel I am qualified to be a member of the Executive Committee because as a leader at school and in the community. I have the opportunity to influence my fellow 4-H members, my generation, and the world through service to others. As a role model for others, I am afforded the privilege to reach a diverse group of people in their times of need. Furthermore, I receive positive feedback, personal growth, and development as I develop new relationships that can last a lifetime. I am often challenged with the task of listening carefully in order to focus on the needs of others. This has made me a more compassionate and committed leader.

Katherine Rashall

At North Caddo High School anytime my name is said, Katherine Rashall, “4-H Geek” is sure to follow. Most of the time being called a geek is considered mean, but after seven active years in 4-H I proudly accept this nickname. In 4-H, I showed registered Jersey cattle and lambs. I love showing all my animals and I always learn so much. I am aware that 4-H is not just about livestock and cooking, there is so much more. I personally have been actively involved in the Service Learning Program and the importance of volunteerism is something I’ve learned from 4-H. 4-H is a very important part of my life, because I love helping people and learning new things. I know that I have the skills necessary to represent the Northwest region well. I am very dedicated, hard working, and believe in what 4-H works to do, which is to “Make the Best Better”.

North Central

Conrad Cable

I currently hold the Vice President position for Union Parish Jr. Leaders. I served as State 4-H Parliamentarian 2007-2008 and Regional Representative for North Central Louisiana 2008-2009. I won the Parish Dairy Poster contest this year and won 2^nd in State last year as well as the State Beef Poster contest in Divisions I and II. In 2005, 2007 and 2008 I was chosen as outstanding Club Member for my Parish. I was the state record book winner and won National Club Congress in 2006.

I attend Ouachita Christian School in Monroe, La. I am currently in the 11^th grade and have a 4.0 GPA. I served as class Historian last year. I am a member of Dean Baptist Church. I am member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes as well as on the Power lifting Team. I hold a National AAPF title and a World Title. I qualified this year for the World meet to be held in London England.

I feel I have served and represented my region well as regional representative, by serving on the constitutional committee. I feel I have helped make changes that will affect 4-H for the next 100 years.

Kyle Hicks

Ask not what 4-H can do for you, but what can you do for 4-H is my motto. Hi! I’m Kyle Hicks from Downsville, La. I have been involved in 4-H for ten years. As with many 4-H’er, I started out in the Livestock project. Through this project I have learned many life lessons. I have also learned how to be responsible, manage my time, and leadership skills. I enjoy teaching younger 4-H’ers how to care for their animals and letting them know that winning is not everything. The most important thing I can teach them is, that Character Counts, not only in the show ring, but in every day life.

I have had the privilege of serving my 4-H club as an officer every year that I have been in 4-H. I have been President for nine years and Vice President for one year. Being an officer in 4-H and attending officer trainings, has groomed me for other leadership roles in my school and community. I am a Member of Future Farmers of America, Union Parish Junior Leaders, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Future Business Leadership of America, Downsville Baptist Church Youth Group, Student Council, Union Parish Livestock Show Team, Union Parish 4-H Shooting Sports team, and the Basketball team. I am President of Future Farmers of America, Vice President of Student Council, and President of Union Parish Junior Leaders. I have also been a counselor for 4-H Camp, TEAM Camp, and many other 4-H activities.

I am qualified to be an officer on the Executive Committee, because I have the leadership skills it takes to be an officer. I am a people person and can interact with adults as well as with my peers. I am open minded and listen to what others think. I am a hard worker and very dependable. I am not afraid to accept a challenge. If I am elected, I will not let Louisiana 4-H down as it’s Representative

Kayla Hullaby

My name is Kayla Hullaby and I am a sophomore at Ringgold High School, which is in Bienville Parish. In my parish, I have been an active 4-H member for the past six years, I have received numerous awards, and have been very much involved in the 4-H program. I have served as a camp counselor for a number 4-H summer Camps and Challenge Camps. I am currently a Jr. Leader in my parish and I serve as a member of the Bienville Parish 4-H Advisory Board. I feel that I deserve to serve a Representative for the North Central region. I possess great leadership qualities and I have many creative ideas that can be used to promote 4-H, not only in my region, but throughout the state of Louisiana.

Cordarius Winzer

Cordarius Winzer was born Tuesday, September 17, 1991 to the proud parents Yvonne Winzer and Calvin Manning, Sr. and is the stepson of Jennifer Manning. He is the grandson of James and Nellie Winzer. He attends Athens High School where he is a junior in high school. He has been in 4-H for seven years. During those seven years he has served as President, Vice President, Treasure, Reporter, and Parliamentarian at Athens Sr. 4-H Club and Athens Elementary 4-H Club. He has served as Vice President and Parliamentarian at Claiborne Parish Jr. Leader club. I have served as Vice President, Reporter and Parliamentarian at Claiborne Parish Livestock Club. He has also served on the 2008-2009 State Executive Board as the North Central Regional Representative. He has served on the 4-H University committee, 4-H Foundation committee, JLC committee, Claiborne Parish Advisory committee and Claiborne Parish 4-H Foundation. He has received the 2008 and 2009 Outstanding Achievement in Claiborne Parish 4-H Award and Outstanding 2007, 2008, and 2009 Agents Award. He has planned a Multi Parish Summer event.

Because I have meet all the qualification to be a State Officer and Regional Representative, I feel I am qualified to be on the State 4-H Executive Committee.

Central

Austin Bordelon

My name is Austin Bordelon. I am a freshman at Marksville High School where I have maintained a 4.5714 average. I am a member of the Marksville high School Tiger Band and play the trumpet. I have been a member of 4-H for the last 6 years, and have held office positions for four of these years.

Since my first year of 4-H, I have always wanted to be a state officer. In order to prepare for this, I have spent my time in 4-H building my leadership skills and public speaking skills. I recently have attended the Junior Leadership Conference held in March 2009. At this conference, I learned from the present officers what qualities are needed in order to become a true leader in 4-H, such as, charisma, speaking skills, keeping a positive attitude, an open mind, and humility, which is the most important.

Starting in fourth grade, I became interested in the public speaking project. In time, my skills improved and I was able to compete not only on the parish level, but the state level as well. I have competed in public speaking at 4-H University and the state Ambassador Commodity Illustrated Talk contest at LSU. I also presented a public speaking workshop in my parish to teach younger 4-Hers about how useful public speaking is. As a state officer, I would like to push this idea to become a statewide project.

I believe that I have the skills and qualifications necessary to be a state 4-H officer. I would also be truly grateful if elected to the State 4-H Executive Board.

Wesley Hayes

This past year has been a phenomenal experience for me. Being the 4-H Parliamentarian was truly a learning experience. It made such an important impact on my life that I want to continue to be a part of such an outstanding group again next year. For that reason I am running for vice president. I feel I would make a great vice president because I am an organized person and a good public speaker. I have won the state 4-H Ambassador contest three times and I have won the Soybean talk at 4-H U once. I also enjoy showing livestock. My swine and cattle projects have been very successful. I have won Grand and Reserve State Market hogs. This gives me a diverse 4-H background and helps me relate to different 4-H demographics. This year I was able to give speeches representing 4-H at the State Livestock Show, the 4-H Foundation Golf Tournament, area 4-H youth and leader trainings, KPLC TV, Jeff Davis Parish 4-H contest, and my local parish leaders’ banquet. These experiences make me a strong leader and good role model.

Kristen Morrison

I have been involved in 4-H for eight years. It all began in the fourth grade by simply being a member of my club and completing record books until the following year. That summer I attended the horse shows: parish, district, and state, winning state and advancing to Southern Regional’s. I later decided that I wanted more to do with my club; therefore, I became the club parliamentarian. I continued attending judging day, demonstration day, completing record books, and attending summer camp and competing in the horse shows. When my sixth grade year rocked around, I wanted a higher office; nevertheless, I ran for Vice President and got the office. I was responsible for gathering a program for all meetings and running errands for my fellow president. The next summer I entered junior high and added on to my 4-H career by showing goats, cows, and chickens, and competing in the food cookery contest. I applied for Vice President and fulfilled the position when I was in seventh and eighth grade. Also, I turned in my livestock record books winning the State Superintendents award. During that school year, I was old enough to start getting involved in the Vernon parish Teen Leader Club and am still an active member of our club. We participate in many activities such as March of Dimes, Cystic Fibrosis Skate-A-Long, Ronald McDonald House, and Relay for Life, and many more. Now that I am a sophomore, I am my club treasure and I take care of all means of money and give the report at the meeting for any corrections that may be needed. While showing livestock has taught me a lot, I know that 4-H is more than just livestock. The community service and service learning projects are something that have taught me a lot about changing the community in which I live. I also have realized that 4H has something for everyone, from livestock to technology to saving wetlands. 4-H is a program that I can see taking me to higher levels and introducing me to many people across this great state and Nation. As I continue working in 4-H, I feel that by learning and using the six pillars of character introduces me to a more responsible young adult. Serving as past and present officers has helped me in learning the seriousness of withstanding a state position. Once again I am Kristen Rae Morrison and I believe that hard work and dedication will pay off as I am pleased and honored to be a candidate for state office.

Korey Ryder

South Central/ Crescent

Brittany Babineaux

Hey guys, I am Brittany Babineaux and I want to be a state 4-H officer. This year is my 8^th year in 4-H. I have been involved in local, parish, state, and even national events. I am a junior leader and serve on the Food & Fitness Board. I have served in every office in school 4-H and I have served as community service chair and I am currently the president. Service Learning is so important because it allows us to work closely with our community firsthand and provide volunteer services; recently we have worked with the elderly and their needs as well as helping with literacy and getting books for schools devastated by Hurricane Katrina. Throughout my time in 4-H, I have done a lot with food nutrition as well. In my parish I teach workshops to the younger 4-hers. I am qualified to be an officer because I have the skills, leadership, responsibility, organization, and discipline needed to focus and complete tasks. Being an officer is a very important because it enables me to use my skills to benefit the community. I cannot wait to be involved.

Dylan Blanchard

My name is Dylan Blanchard and I am presently a sophomore at Assumption High School. I have been in 4-H for the past seven years. It is the most rewarding club I am in. I was a parish Top 4-Her for the past five years and a Top Jr. Leader for the past three years. 4-H has taught me and given me many leadership roles. I have held numerous offices within my school clubs such as Parliamentarian, Treasurer, Reporter, and Vice President. In 2007 I had the honor of being one of Assumption Parishes 4-H University Voting Delegates. I have also taken on the leadership role and went through camp counselor training. I also attended Junior Leadership Conference and learned many new leadership skills that I have taken and incorporated into my parish 4-H club.

Keagon Bourque

Running for Vice Presidency is a big commitment; luckily, I’ve got what it takes. I’ve been in 4-H for eight years and have been an avid member since fourth grade. I’ve enthusiastically attended many camps/activities, creating friendships that still remain. I have always participated in 4-H club activities and am an active member of our parish 4-H Junior Leader club. I was recently honored to attend 4-H Club Congress in Atlanta Georgia. I met people through this trip, extending my 4-H relationships even more. Though a separate club, BETA, I have grown and matured through the years as well. I ran for Reporter on the state level, and to my surprise, won! This gave me the opportunity to run for National Beta Club Reporter. I was elected the National Reporter of the BETA club. This required me to give motivational speeches in front of thousands of peers. While serving my term for BETA, I realized that a club is only worth what you put back into it. So here I ask you, let me lead as the Louisiana 4-H Vice President, in order to serve my fellow youth peers and give something back to my 4-H club.

Nathaniel Burton

My first experience with 4-H was at 4-H U last summer. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. At 4-H U, I was certified as a camp counselor. I used that certification to participate at 4-H Camp. I have only been affiliated with the program for a year and there may be more seasoned candidates than me, but I am passionate. I have a fire. I have a clear vision, and I want to help the youth. I am in a number of clubs that are designed to help youth such as Louisiana Youth Advisory Council and High School Helpers. I am a hard worker, and I throw myself into what I do. It would be an honor if I was able to serve as the South Central/Crescent region representative.

Jeanne Gernon

My name is Jeanne-Morgan Gernon; I am a freshman at South Terrebonne High School. I am running for South Central/Crescent Regional Representative. I am ready to work to do more for 4-H program. 4-H has been such a positive influence in my life and I would like to help others in my region all the opportunities that 4-H had to offer. I have held many 4-H office positions within my school club and my Jr. Leader Club. I am a very organized person. I often times help my parish agents with timely information because I am so organized. I am currently the 2007-2008 South Central Crescent Regional Representative. These are my goals if I am re-elected: I would make sure I got to know all my agents and know what their goals are for their parishes and Jr. Leaders. I would take detailed notes of all new things that the Executive Board is coming up with and come back to my region and present this to the agents and make sure they know what is going on. I would always promote the service learning project that is taking place through the state. I would do my best to attend at least one of the quarterly trainings during my term on the Executive Board. In summary, I am a very well organized 4-H member who absolutely loves 4-H. I would keep my agents up to date, be available for questions, and offer support and assistance throughout the region.

Cody Hood

My name is Cody Hood and I am in the 10^th grade at Assumption High School. When I joined 4-H in the fourth grade, little did I know it would change my life forever. I have learned so many life skills and made friendships to last a lifetime. I am not afraid of challenges and leadership roles. I am currently the president of my school 4-H club and also the president of the Assumption Parish Jr. Leader Club. I am very honored to be the 2008-2009 Louisiana State 4-H Secretary/Treasurer. My 4-H opportunities continue to flourish, as I have been chosen as one of the 4-H National Conference Delegate Finalist for 2009-2010. Taking on these roles has given me the opportunity to learn a great deal more about 4-H and what it has to offer. This experience has helped expand my communication skills with others, think independently, and develop my leadership skills. I hope to take these skills and continue spreading the positive components of 4-H. I am prepared to take on additional responsibilities and help build a path for the future of 4-H. I want to let everyone know 4-H has endless possibilities.

Remy Roper

My name is Remy Roper I have been a 4-H member for 6 years. In 2008 I served as a member of the Food and Fitness Board. I have participated in about every camp that 4-H offered during my past 6 years. This year I received an outstanding individual award for my parish, which I am very proud of. I have been a camp counselor for two years. My favorite part of 4-H is 4-H University, because I get to live life for a week as an adult, and live on my own.

I am qualified to be a regional representative because I am a very organized person. I am very passionate and committed to everything I do in life, especially 4-H. As regional representative I will gather information from board meetings and bring the information to my region and make sure that everything that needs to happen will happen in my region.

Arielle Sutton

Hi, I’m Arielle Sutton, 17, from Ascension. I’m a senior from St. Michael the Archangel in Baton Rouge, and even though my school has never had a 4-H club, it hasn’t hindered my involvement.

For three generations, 4-H has been a part of my family. I guess you can call it a tradition. It began with my grandparents, was carried onto my parents, aunts and uncles, and now the tradition continues with me and my little cousins. I have been a 4-H member for eight years, and I cannot imagine my life without it. During my 4-H career, I have held many officer positions in the parish Jr. Leader Club for the past five years. I was chosen to be a part of the ascension Parish Advisory Committee, and have represented my parish on the state level many times. This past year, I was chosen as “Outstanding 4-Her” in my parish club, and “Outstanding Jr. Leader” in my Jr. Leader Club. I have participated in 4-H Camp and Challenge Camp as both a camper and counselor, and I’ve attended 4-H-U for the past for years. As a seventh grader, I placed fourth in the state for Public Speaking, and this past year my partner and I placed in the Top 10 for Sports Broadcasting. Most of all, this past year I served as the State Historian/Reporter for 4-H. Thus far, it has been my biggest achievement though 4-H and has made me even more passionate about my 4-H club.

I would make a good officer for this next year because I am experienced. I have obtained many leadership positions and have succeeded. I can communicate with a variety of people, and speak very well. I can attribute many ideas to “make the best, better” and spread 4-H to youth who don’t have access to it (like my school)! I like to have fun, but I’m hardworking too. I am a listener, and I value and respect other people’s ideas. “Two heads are better than one!” Finally, I am passionate about 4-H. It has helped develop me into an independent, resourceful, intelligent, compassionate young lady. I have given me the opportunity of a lifetime to meet new people, be myself, and have fun! As an officer, I’d like to try and reach out to a younger generation. I’d like to encourage them to seize all that 4-H has to offer, and make it a part of them, just as it have become a part of me. I want to carry on the tradition.

Rachel Tastet

My name is Rachel Tastet, and I’m seventeen years young. I am an active member in the St. Charles Parish’s Jr. Leader Club. I first joined 4-H in the 4^th grade and joined the Jr. Leader Club in the 8^th grade. In my parish’s Jr. Leader Club, I have served as an eighth grade representative, secretary/treasurer, president, fundraising committee leader, and parliamentarian. I feel as though I am qualified for the Executive Committee/Regional Representative position because I have experience as an officer in my parish’s club. For this position I feel that I have the necessary and required leadership skills. I am willing to use teamwork to work with the other officers to make and carry out goals of the board. My dedication and love of 4-H motivates me to become a better leader.

Southeast

Summer Alsadi

Being active in 4-H is like a daily routine in my life, because I am involved in so many 4-H activities. I am an active member of the Junior Leader Club which meets monthly to organize leadership activities and community service projects in our parish. For our Project Fun Day I helped to plan and conduct lessons for younger 4-H members. I helped younger students view animals and exhibits as a tour guide through the minifarm. For our Halloween Safety program, I gave out trick-or-treat bags and other items with safety messages at a Community Resource Fair.

I’ve also been involved in activities outside the parish such as Ag Magic, where I was a tour guide for younger students. I participated in the public speaking contest at 4-H University. As a member of the State Executive Board, I attended board meetings where we planned 4-H statewide activities and served on two committees. I also help to conduct JLC this year.

All these experiences help me come prepared to be a state officer or regional representative. I believe that I have the persistence, organizational skills, and people skills needed to be a good member of the Louisiana 4-H Executive Board.

Jill Ferguson

My safe haven. These are three words I could use to describe 4-H. That is not because I don’t feel safe at home or school, but because my talents are really appreciated and always blossom in 4-H.

Though our parish 4-H program is small, our service never reflects it, and I always try to be involved. I have worked with younger 4-H members at Awards and Activities Day, the minifarm and Project Fun Day in our parish. I have participated in AgMagic, JLC, 4-H University, and Co-op Conference. I have also been a National 4-H Conference finalist. I am an active member of our parish Junior Leader Club and participate in many of the service and leadership activities the club conducts each year.

I believe that my communications skills and personality have helped me excel at these 4-H events for the past eight years. I believe those same skills will help me excel as the Southeast Regional Representative.

Darrell Griffin

My name is Darrell JerryWayne Griffin. I am from Greensburg, La and I attend St. Helena Central High School. I am in the ninth grade. I am involved in many clubs and I am also an honor student. One club I would like to take a moment and talk about is 4-H. I have been a 4-H Club member since 4^th grade. I have had the chance to be our club president for three years I am currently our 9^th grade freshman academy 4-H president. I have been Vice President for two years secretary for a year and I was also a reporter. It was a great experience representing my club.

I have participated in many areas of 4-H such as 4-H camp as a camper and a counselor, Junior Leadership Counselor, Challenge camp, and LOST camp. I have also participated in many activities in 4-H such as outdoor shooting sports, cookery contest, 4-H Achievement Day, SET, club meetings, and many more activities.

I feel I would make a great Vice President for the state of Louisiana. I would represent my club with dignity, pride, and I would have the respect for my club.

Southwest

Bryar Babineaux

My history with the 4-H has been a short one, but I have done much in that short time. I officially joined the 4-H Jr. Leadership about a year ago but I have been involved with setting up projects and helping out the 4-H unofficially for much longer. I became an ambassador for 4-H this year and I am hoping to achieve and even higher office in the 4-H. The reason I hope to become a regional representative is because I wish to make the accomplishments and goals of the Acadia Parish 4-H known throughout the state of Louisiana, for we are a club that has worked long and hard through the years and I wish to make it known to the other parishes. Now the main reasons that I would think I would be good for this office is that I understand a lot about 4-H when pertaining to how it is run, and I am not afraid to work hard toward my goals, and the goals of 4-H. I am determined to work hard and do my best for the 4-H if I were to attain this office.

Taylor Chargois

My involvement in the Louisiana 4-H Program began seven years ago. Through my exposure in 4-H, I have participated in service projects, contest venues, educational trips and activities, and public speaking opportunities. I have served on the Executive Board for the past two years. First, I was elected to serve as the State 4-H Historian/Reporter. This year, I represented the Southwest region of Louisiana as a Regional Representative. In addition to my executive board positions, I have held the offices of Secretary, President, Reporter, and Treasurer in my local club.

My leadership abilities are developed. I have participated in college lectures where I have recorded detailed notes on the subject. I have completed two typing courses, and through these extended typing sessions I have acquired an average typing speed of 86 words per minute. I have worked as a stand-in receptionist for a local attorney and have assisted past Executive Board Secretary/Treasurers in their duty to document board meetings.

Through these activities, I have learned how to work with others, contributed to a common goal, and improved my leadership skills. I am fully prepared to serve my fellow 4-H members as the 2009-2010 Louisiana State 4-H Secretary/Treasurer

Austin Fontenot

I am Austin Fontenot from Evangeline Parish. I am a freshman at Sacred Heart High School in Ville Platte, Louisiana. I have been a member of the 4-H club for six (6) years. As a member of the 4-H club, I have been very active in showing beef cattle since the age of nine (9). My family raises Brahman Cattle and my sisters and I show our cattle at the 4-H local, district, state, and national levels. Showing Brahmans has taught me a lot about responsibility because I have to feed and prepare my cattle for the show.

I have been a member of the 4-H Jr. Leadership club for the last two (2) years and currently serve on the executive board of the local Evangeline Parish organization. I am also a member of the Southwest Region Volunteer Leader Committee. As an active 4-H Jr. Leadership club member, I have helped younger 4-H members with many activities. Some of those activities include Achievement Day, officer training workshop and fishing clinic. I also attended 4-H University and Junior Leadership Conference this year. During Ag Magic I was a volunteer tour guide and I helped in the livestock area.

As a 4-H member, I have made lifelong friends. I have learned about leadership and how to work with others. For these reasons, I would like to serve the Southwest region as their representative.

Brandon Guillory

My name is Brandon Guillory, and I am running to be the 2010 State 4-H President. I have been a member of 4-H since the fourth grade, and it has provided me with many amazing opportunities to meet new people, gain leadership experiences, and serve on several different committees and boards at the local, parish, regional, and state levels. I have won two state contests, and I have also won the National Chicken BBQ Contest at the National Poultry & Egg Conference last fall. I also attended the National 4-H Congress, where I got many new ideas for the Southwest Louisiana Leadership Conference that I am planning. I am currently serving as the Southwest Regional Representative for the State 4-H Executive Board, a job that I have taken very seriously. I serve on the State Service-Learning Committee, the 4-H University Committee, and I am the co-chair of the Elections Committee, in which I led a group of Board members to come up with this new election process. I have had plenty of leadership experience on this Board as well as in my parish’s Jr. Leader Club, and I believe that I am definitely qualified to be the next State 4-H President.

Daniel Guinn

Busy is one way to describe my family because we have 10 children. I am number 6 in the lineup. We have 6 of us still living at home. 3 of my older brothers and 1 of my older sisters have moved out. So our household is always busy. My grandmother also lives with us of the whole family helps to take care of her. We are also a home school family so school is done at home as well. Yes, we have a busy household. Being from a big family known as the Guinns, we have our individuality. I am a 7^th year 4-Her and a 3^rd year member of the Jeff Davis 4-H Jr Leader Club. I have participated in numerous service projects. I have served as a 4-H camp counselor, chaperoned field trips, presented workshops and worked Ag Magic. Through these, I have learned the importance of accepting responsibility, showing respect for others, caring for others and the care of the environment.

4-H University is the best!! Here, Jeff Davis High School 4-Hers plan their year around it. I enjoyed preparing for my contest and placed 3^rd when I competed in 2007. In 2008, I was named the state winner in the Bicycle contest and awarded the educational trip. I had a great time making new friends on our trip to Disney World. It was an awesome experience for a small town kid like myself.

As a regional representative, I would encourage increase participation at the Jr. High level. I want this youth to know that 4-H offers many opportunities and that these opportunities Continue to improve beyond Jr. High and into the high school years. I would also like to represent my Region by working with other parishes, attending regional meetings and camps and sharing ideas to Promote 4-H.

Jesse Lange

My 4-H experience first began when I was in the fourth grade; during this year I did not participate like I would have liked to. I was not involved with 4-H again until I was a sophomore in high school. When I finally did get involved with 4-H, I enjoyed it immensely. Since I have rejoined 4-H, I have met many people I would have not gotten to meet otherwise. During my second year in 4-H and my first high school year I was selected to go to 4-H University in the ATV safety contest. At 4-H University I had a top ten placing in the contest. My junior year in high school, my third year in 4-H, I was again selected to participate in the ATV contest at 4-H University, I was also elected parliamentarian of my club. I thought this was a great honor. I had been on the parliamentary law team for FFA so I knew parliamentary law fairly well. Although I have not been in this great organization for very long I would like the chance to give back to 4-H what 4-H has given me.

Chad Peloquin

My name is Chad Peloquin, I’m 17 years old and I have been an active member of 4-H for 9 years. Over the years I have accumulated several leadership positions. Right now I am an ambassador and junior leader for Acadia Parish 4-H. I am also the parliamentarian for our 4-H horse club. Another leadership position that I have acquired was rather unexpected when my 4-H agent, Mrs. Sheena Grote Cecil recommended me to be on the Acadia Parish livestock advisory board. One of the main reasons why I joined 4-H in the first place was to show exhibition poultry. I have shown numerous varieties of chicken from Awcaunas to Sumatras and Yokohamas. One significant award that I have received is the 4^th place trophy for premier poultry exhibitor. If only I had studied… Some of the major contest that I participate in for 4-H are poultry judging, my favorite, livestock judging, and horse judging.

I am a hard worker, just ask anyone who knows me. My work ethic can be compared to that of my dad’s. He has been a hard working man all of his life, always does what his is told, and always gives 110 percent when it comes to getting the job done. Going to JLC and the state FFA convention this past year have really helped build up my leadership skills. And I hope that I am the leader you need as one of your next state officers.

Gabe Stelly

Hello, I’m Gabe Stelly a very active 4-H’er and Junior Leader from St. Landry Parish. I am currently a sophomore at Opelousas Catholic School where I am involved in 4-H club, drama club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, cross country, and track. As a 4-H member, I have been involved in the following project areas: poultry, leadership, public speaking, and livestock judging. I am also very proud to have been a member of the 2008 state winning Livestock Judging Team at 4-H University.

In my parish, I am currently serving as Vice President of our parish 4-H Executive Committee, Junior Leader Reporter and Service Learning Committee Chair, President of my local 4-H club, member of the parish 4-H Advisory Committee and certified as a camp counselor. On the state level, I am currently a member of the 4-H SET Board. As a SET Board member, I helped conduct the Rocketry/Robotics track at 2008 LOST Camp and developed the Videography track for the 2009 LOST Camp.

4-H has always been a very important aspect of my life; whether going to 4-H camp as a camper when I was younger, working on my project records, participating in the many workshops and contests or currently now helping me to develop my leadership skills.

Jonathan Thibeaux

In life, there are moments that will take control of your destiny and change your life forever. A change so powerful, stirring your mind not to the breakthroughs of misfortune, but instead success. My success started with the 4-H Club and I am thankful to have the opportunity of being part of the State Executive Board. My love for 4-H grows habitually, leading me onward in search of my dreams.

I first joined 4-H when I was in the fourth grade because it was the only club for 4^th graders. However, in grades to come, I stayed in 4-H because it enriched me on subjects that normally I would not have gotten a chance to learn. The older I got the more involved I became in 4-H. When I joined the Jr. Leader Club, it was then that my 4-H Club became like family to me. We learned together and also found fun ways to teach the members of the club. 4-H helped me be a strong leader who knows how to accomplish any task. Because of this, my club voted me President-Elect and I can’t wait to fulfill my duties. I am responsible and more determined than ever because of 4-H. 4-H does this for many others as well and provides the community with assistance. By helping Cameron Parish 4-H Club, I received a true sense of pride when I saw how 4-H is home to many people, and when they lost their home they never lost hope in the 4-H Club.

4-H is a pillar of hope for many people and means the world to me. Please pick me, Jonathan Thibeaux, to have a chance of a lifetime in allowing me to be a part of the 4-H Executive Committee.