Opinion

4-H activities start in advance of the fair

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

4-Hers, don't forget about many of the pre-fair activities like demonstration contest, summer judging and public speaking contests. These three contests help to develop important life skills in 4-Hers that can give one an edge up in seeking employment or admittance into a post high school education program.

Public speaking, demonstration contests

The state topic for public speaking is "I Pledge My Hands to Larger Service" for 2010. The top three individuals from the county are eligible to participate at the Indiana State Fair.

Demonstration contest is another opportunity to compete in one of nine different categories that include: Livestock; Color, Texture & Design; Foods; Companion Animals; Mechanical Science & Safety; Natural Resources; Plants; General (fits no other area); and Team.

For both public speaking and demonstration contests, besides local awards, the Indiana State Fair sponsors a trip to Washington, D.C., for those placing adequately at the state level.

Both contests are certainly great experiences and an excellent way to earn additional points to be eligible for Key Club Award, scholarships and other 4-H longevity and achievement awards.

Summer judging

This is a fun activity to learn and compete that occurs each summer for all 4-Hers. The date is July 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the County Annex. There are three levels based on grade with prizes and recognition during fair. This also is a great way to earn achievement points for 4-H career.

Project and exhibit help sessions

Last year, help sessions throughout the summer were scheduled to help 4-Hers with advice and to answer questions about assembling or demonstrating project work. These were given a trial run and were well utilized particularly closer to the fair.

This year, two project and exhibit help sessions have been scheduled. So bring exhibit items and questions to the Extension office on July 7 from 7 to 9 p.m. or on July 14 from 1 to 3 p.m. If you cannot make these times, contact the office to schedule otherwise.

Visit our website at www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam or you can contact the local Purdue Extension Office by calling 653-8411 for more information regarding this week's column topic or to RSVP for upcoming events. It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs. While many publications are free, some do have a fee. All times listed are Eastern Time.

Upcoming events

July 5: 4-H Cake Decorating Workshop, Greencastle Christian Church, 4-5 p.m.

July 6: Junior Master Gardener Informational Meeting -- Court House Annex

July 7: 4-H Public Speaking Contest, Extension Office, 6 p.m.

July 7: 4-H Demonstration Contest, Extension Office, 6 p.m.

July 8: Junior Leader Cookout with Morgan County, Fairgrounds, 6-8 p.m.

July 10: Fairgrounds workday Junior Leaders, Fairgrounds, 2-5 p.m.

July 12: Leader Lesson "Get the Skinny on Healthy Eating" Ext. Office Classroom 7 p.m.

July 13: 4-H Summer Judging Activity, Annex Room 4, 6-8 p.m.

July 19-30: Staff at fairgrounds-Office may not be staffed

July 19-22: 4-H Project Judging

July 23-30: Putnam County Fair

August 6-22: Indiana State Fair

August 30: Fall District Extension Homemakers Meeting, Putnam Fairgrounds