Extension Connection

Extension Connection

Experience the Excellence of 4-H

July 2, 2008

Photo of Darla Heath

Darla Heath

dheath1@illinois.edu

Nothing is as heartwarming as seeing a child's face light up with delight when he or she receives recognition and praise for a job well done. Champaign County 4-H members will have plenty of smiles this week when they exhibit their projects at the 4-H Expo at Market Place Mall on July 8, 9 and 10.

As 4-H members, youth chose projects they are interested in learning about in the fall. They receive project books to guide their learning. Some members participate in workshops or are guided by an adult or older youth to learn more about the project. There are projects covering a wide range of interests from foods, clothing and visual arts to aerospace, computers, robotics and everything in-between. The 4-H program is not just for rural youth anymore! Children from cities, small towns and rural areas are members of 4-H. In fact, 1/3 of Champaign County's 4-H members live in Champaign-Urbana.

Throughout the year, members work on their projects and display them at the 4-H Project Expo. At the Expo, a volunteer that is skilled in a particular subject judges the exhibit. Conference judging gives 4-H members an opportunity to talk about the exhibit with an expert and get some tips about the project. Judges point out the positive aspects of each exhibit and offer tips for improvement. Ribbons are awarded to recognize the individual 4-H member's accomplishments. Distinguished Clover Awards are presented to members whose projects show exceptional skill.

You won't want to miss seeing the accomplishments and the results of several months of project work by these talented young people. Judging begins at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, July 8 and takes place at various times until 2 p.m. on Thursday, July 10. Over 1,000 exhibits will be on display throughout the three-day event.

Additional shows taking place this summer are the Dog Show and the Eastern Prairie 4-H Livestock Show. The public is invited to attend the 4-H Dog Show Monday, July 14 at 6 p.m. at the Stock Pavilion. Fourteen youth and their dogs began obedience training in mid-April. They have attended training every week in addition to logging countless hours of practice at home with their pets. There is no fee for admission.

4-H members with dairy, beef, goats, sheep and swine projects will exhibit their skills at the Champaign County Fairgrounds, on Thursday, July 24. Regular admission prices to the fair apply to this event.

Experience the smiles, the excitement, and the excellence of the 2008 4-H Project Expo or the livestock and dog show. Click here for more information regarding these events and specific judging times.

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