By Kate Pittack/Extension 4-H Agent
As I’m sitting down in front of my computer to start writing my column, I’m getting all sorts of updates from friends and family back in Nebraska who are digging themselves out of nearly 15 inches of snow. First of all, I don’t miss winter storms like that and secondly, I don’t have the heart to tell my mom (who had to patiently wait until the plow went by her road to even think about getting out) that I didn’t need to wear a jacket to work yesterday.
Things are certainly picking up as we get closer to more contests and the Henderson County Livestock Show. On Thursday, February 11th, I’ll be hosting a workshop on our “Roundup” contests at the Sr. Citizens Center in Athens at 6:30 p.m. These include: Educational Presentations, Public Speaking, and Fashion. While presentations & public speaking are pretty straightforward, there are several different fashion/clothing contests that 4-H youth can be involved in. Actual clothing construction can be tackled or there are “buying” categories where youth purchase an outfit for a specific purpose or within a certain price range and then explain their selection to a judge.
The other contests that have been popular are: Fashion Storyboard, Trashion Show, and Duds to Dazzle. For the Storyboard category youth show their creativity by designing an outfit, accessory or pet clothing based around a theme. This year’s theme is social media. The Trashion Show involves “up-cycling” something considered junk to create a unique design. A model then shows the garment off. “Duds to Dazzle” is a team contest where youth get some basic items and “transform” them into something spectacular. It sounds like our District 4-H Office will also be adding some classes in “Fabric Creations”. This category will be for items constructed that are “non-wearables” (pillows, quilts, bags, etc.). I’ll release more information on that as soon as I get the details. I think these classes will be a great alternative for those who like to sew (but maybe not sew clothing).
I strongly encourage all 4-Her’s to consider trying one of these contests. I started public speaking through 4-H when I was 8 years old. It without a doubt helped me become more confident when presenting in front of groups as I became an adult. If you’re unable to attend the workshop then don’t let that stop you getting some help and advice. You could always try Ginger Public Speaking Communication Coaching or something similar.
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Kate Pittack is the Henderson County Extension Agent – 4-H & Youth Development for Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Contact her at: [email protected] & visit our webpage at http://henderson.agrilife.org