Cirque de 4-H A Big Top of Leadership

4-H University 2011: number 11 was the magic number of 4-H’ers from Red River Parish that attended the 97th annual 4-H University the week of June 21 – 24, 2011, in Baton Rouge, La. The 1,400 4-H members attending 4-H University from throughout Louisiana chose between 43 contests and 12 Clover College tracks in which to participate. The 4-H’ers stayed at the Lod Cook Conference Center and had the opportunity to make new friends and experience college life on the LSU campus. Also, more than $100,000 in scholarships and educational trips were awarded to deserving youth from across Louisiana.

The youth competed in their chosen contests which ranged from All-terrain Vehicle Safety and Livestock Judging to Outdoor Skills and Fishing Sports. Clover College also offered 4-H’ers the opportunity to experience the life as a CSI agent or to explore the world of sports. There was something for everyone. As an added benefit of attending 4-H U, they also participated in a variety of educational programs, including a tour of the LSU Athletic Department.

4-H U also offers the chance for our young leaders to participate on the State Boards, such as, state 4-H officers: president, vice-president, secretary, reporter, historian and parliamentarian. Other state boards include: SET Board, Fashion Board, Citizenship Board and Food & Fitness Board. The youth are interviewed, campaign, give speeches and are elected by their peers. These are wonderful opportunities for the 4-H’ers to increase their leadership and communication skills. We are very proud to announce that Cory Maxwell Jr. is a Northwest Regional Representative on the 4-H State Executive Board. Congratulations, Cory, on a job well done!

“For some students this week is about competing against other students. Whether it’s for a state office or in a contest, some students thrive on the competitive element. For others, it’s about exploring new opportunities or learning new skills. One thing that all students take home from 4-H U is a week of great memories,” said Mark Tassin, state leader for the LSU AgCenter’s 4-H youth development program.

The Red River Parish agents of the LSU AgCenter Cooperative Extension Service are very proud of our 4-H’ers and we consider them all winners. Participants and their contests were:

ATV – Nathan Paul and Seth Wood; CSI – Dori Ammons and Chimera Stewart; Fishing Sports Team – Garrett Anderson, Terrance Ammons, and Cory Maxwell; Livestock Judging – Darrell MeLemore Jr.; Outdoor Skills – Cole Hinds, Bandon Nolen and Dylan Norman.

Dylan Norman – Blue Ribbon – 3rdPlace in Outdoor Skills
Cole Hinds - Blue Ribbon -- 13th Place in Outdoor Skills
Natan Paul - Blue Ribbon -- 6th Place in ATV

We wish to say a special “thank you” to the 4-H’ers, parents and area agents who helped train the youth for their contests. We would also like to say a special thanks to Nancy Nettles for everything she does to promote 4-H, not only the youth of our parish but also for all 4-H’ers. We also appreciate the Red River Fair Board for their support and sponsorship of our trip.

7/25/2011 6:51:37 PM
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