The Vernon Parish delegation to State 4-H University included 26 teens and 9 adults from across the parish competing and participating in a variety of events and activities. The theme of this years’ event “Louisiana 4-H: Raising the Bar for the next 100 Years” in keeping with the 4-H Centennial Celebration. Rae Addison of Leesville Senior 4-H was elected to serve on the State 4-H Executive Board for a 2nd term as Regional Representative to the Cenla Region. As a Regional Representative, Rae will and has served on many committees such as the 4-H Day at the Capitol, 4-H Tailgating Party for the LSU Football game, and many 4-H Centennial Celebrations. Rae also placed 5th in the Horticulture General Demonstration.
Rae and Robyn Briscoe, outgoing Regional Representative were also a part of the Opening Ceremonies for each evening’s program. They carried the Regional flag and introduced speakers and awards recipients.
Austin Granger of Rosepine Senior 4-H earned a trip to the National Forestry Competition and will be traveling with Foresters from the LSU AgCenter this summer.
Others placing include Amber Sharp and Chris Lenahan of Anacoco Senior 4-H in Sports Broadcasting; Robyn Briscoe of Anacoco Senior 4-H, Lucas Smith of Evans Senior 4-H, and Raegan Fontenot of Leesville Senior 4-H who placed 3rd in Poultry Judging. Raegan and Lucas also placed individually; Chase Harvey and Ethan Jeane of Evans Senior 4-H in the Horticulture Use Demonstration; Angela Ortiz in Child Development.
Others participating include Anacoco Senior 4-H members Zac Cecil – Photography, Nicole Wenthe – Dog Care, Tryon Williams and Chase Haymon – ATV, Stephen Briscoe – Insect Identification, Kristen Morrison – Compact Tractor, Sydney Williams – Child Development, Heather Rabalais – Resource Management. Evans Senior 4-H members Trevor Fox and Megan Smith – FCS Demonstration, Victoria Hendon – Bicycle, Caleb Minion – Wildlife Habitat Judging. Rosepine Senior 4-H members Steven Geltz and Mandi Alford – Computer Simulation. Simpson Senior 4-H member Amanda Basco – Career Preparation Interview.
Adults who served as chaperones included Mrs. Michelle Mitchell, who also serves on the Louisiana 4-H Foundation, Mrs. Tonya Tilley, Miss Tiffany Franklin, Mrs. Melinda Granger, Mr. Dondi Alford and 4-H Agents, Chad Hagan and Kem Johnson.
All participants were also required to participate in a wide variety of educational programs that included an LSU Athletic tour, visiting the Children’s ward of a local hospital, health and fitness programs, What Not to Wear, College Success, and many more.