4-H public speaking contest recognizes youth communication skills

DECATUR — The State 4-H Public Speaking contest, held at Parkland College on April 29, showcased the communication skills of 145 youth from 68 counties. Several local 4-H members advanced to the state 4-H Public Speaking Contest after competing at the DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt 4-H Public Speaking Contest. 

Phoebe Craft from DeWitt County and Kennedy Rusk from Macon County competed in the Individual Oral Interpretation category. Oral Interpretation presentations must be previously published works or manuscripts such as short stories, poetry, published speeches, and theatrical interpretations. Youth may participate as individuals or as part of a team.

Craft and Rusk both had impressive performances. Rusk, from Maroa Livestock, received second place as Reserve Champion.

Emily and Lauren Harrington, from Piatt County Cisco Clovers, competed in the Original Works Team category and placed third. Original works must be written entirely by the presenters and may be designed for TV, radio, or online media. 

Public speaking is an important life skill that 4-H recognizes and encourages in members. The 4-H Public Speaking Contest is an opportunity for members to demonstrate their skills and receive valuable feedback in several categories, such as Formal, Illustrated, Original Works Individual, Original Works Team, Oral Interpretation Individual, and Oral Interpretation Team. Members are also encouraged to make at least one formal presentation during a club meeting each year.

Maria Lightner, University of Illinois Extension

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Maria Lightner is the marketing and communications program coordinator for the University of Illinois Extension. She currently serves the area covering DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt counties.

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