McClain County 4-H hosted its Fall Communications Contest November 14 at Blanchard Intermediate School, bringing together youth to develop essential life skills.
Public speaking, often cited as one of the top fears among Americans, is a skill these 4-H members are tackling headon at an early age, setting the foundation for lifelong confidence and success, said a 4-H spokesperson.
Sixteen area 4-H members competed, showcasing their hard work and bravery in overcoming public speaking fears. Participants had the opportunity to explore their talents through four distinct categories, catering to a range of interests and presentation styles.
The Famous Person Category offers a great opportunity to dive deep into the life and achievements of a historical or notable figure and presenting the research through a speech makes it engaging. Dressing up in costumes adds a creative flair, making the person come alive for the audience.
Junior Famous Person
1st Place: Piper Terpening, Newcastle 4-H
Intermediate Famous Person
1st Place: Makayla Tange, Blanchard 4-H 4-H organizers said the Illustrated Talk category is a fantastic way for participants to showcase their creativity and knowledge while diving into topics they’re passionate about. It’s a versatile format that lets you combine visuals.
Cloverbud Illustrated Talk Participant
Barrett Beatty, Newcastle 4-H
Junior Illustrated Talk 3rd Place: Abigail Gipson, Newcastle 4-H 2nd Place: Aniston Williams, Newcastle 4-H 1st Place: Archer Beatty, Newcastle 4-H
Intermediate Illustrated Talk
3rd Place: Harper Perkins, Newcastle 4-H 2nd Place: Abigail Williams, Newcastle 4-H 1st Place: Cooper Beatty, Newcastle 4-H
Senior Illustrated Talk 2nd Place: Estella Thayer, Washington 4-H 1st Place: EveLynne Thayer, Washington 4-H The Prepared Speech category is a way for participants to focus on the art of storytelling and persuasion without relying on visual aids or props. It allows the speaker to truly engage the audience through words, tone, and body language.
Junior Prepared Speech
1st Place: Myles Tange, Blanchard 4-H
Intermediate Prepared Speech
3rd Place: Riley Gipson, Blanchard 4-H 2nd Place: Trent Thayer, Washington 4-H 1st Place: Harper Perkins, Newcastle 4-H The Extemporaneous Speech category is an exercise for quick thinking, adaptability, and clear communication — skills that are incredibly valuable in many areas of life. It’s all about staying calm under pressure and delivering a focused and engaging response on the fly.
Cloverbud Extemporaneous Speech
Barrett Beatty, Newcastle 4-H
Junior Extemporaneous Speech 4th Place: Abigail Gipson, Blanchard 4-H 3rd Place: Aniston Williams, Newcastle 4-H 2nd Place: Piper Terpening, Newcastle 4-H 1st Place: Archer Beatty, Newcastle 4-H
Intermediate Extemporaneous Speech
3rd Place: Norah Thayer, Washington 4-H 2nd Place: Cooper Beatty, Newcastle 4-H 1st Place: Harper Perkins, Newcastle 4-H
Senior Extemporaneous Speech
4th Place: Estella Thayer, Washington 4-H 3rd Place: Marlee Lowden, Newcastle 4-H 2nd Place: EveLynne Thayer, Washington 4-H 1st Place: Haley Haxton, Blanchard 4-H 4-H is open to all youth in McClain County and are encouraged to join. If you are interested in enrolling, please contact the McClain County Extension Office at 405-5272174.
