Four 4-H'ers from southeastern Vermont were among the 37 4-H club members participating in 4-H State Day, held virtually this year.

This annual capstone experience provides an opportunity for 4-H youths, ages 8 to 18, to share what they've learned through their projects and club activities. Entries were accepted via video and email in 16 different categories and evaluated on a number of criteria including presentation, creativity and workmanship with feedback provided to the exhibitor.

"Every year our 4-H'ers impress us with their ambitious goals surrounding communication and public speaking skills," says Allison Smith, University of Vermont (UVM) Extension 4-H Youth Learning Experiences coordinator. "Their illustrated talks, demonstrations, posters and other presentations illustrate their ability to research a subject, break down complex concepts for the audience, and deliver information clearly and concisely." 

Three siblings from Windham and the River Riders II 4-H Club took part this year. Anna Carson, 11, performed a series of violin melodies, earning a blue ribbon. Her brother James, 9, also received a blue ribbon for his illustrated talk on basic grooming kit tools for horses and how to use them. Megan, 14, entered a photo, "The Stand of Time" for which she was awarded a red ribbon.

Vernon 4-H'er Whitney Dunklee, 15, entered a photo, "Buffalo Bill," and a photo-based design, "Beautiful Moments," earning blue ribbons for both. Whitney is a member of the Solids, Stripes and Spots 4-H Club.

"This year was our second time conducting 4-H State Day virtually," Smith says. "In the past, exhibits and public speaking were performed live, and the moment was fleeting. Now the knowledge passed along in the videos and photos of exhibits by outstanding 4-H'ers like these can be shared with different audiences and also used to help upcoming 4-H'ers see what a quality and successful presentation looks like."

To learn more about 4-H in Windham and Windsor Counties, contact Lisa Muzzey, UVM Extension 4-H educator, at lisa.muzzey@uvm.edu or (802) 885-8386.