4-H members tested their talents and communications skills in front of audiences at Post Rock District 4-H Day events in Beloit and Smith Center. One hundred, forty youth practiced public speaking, presentation, demonstration, music and dance skills. Risa Overmiller, 4-H program coordinator, said, "4-H Day is as important as the fair. It teaches our youth communications skills and lets them showcase their talents."

Youth showcased their talents in front of adult judges who provided expert feedback to help youth learn how to perform better in public. According to Kansas 4-H, "Members have been learning to speak skillfully before an audience for more than 100 years. It is often one of the things people say they most remember about their 4-H experiences--before participating in 4-H, they could not speak comfortably in front of an audience."

"It takes dedication from 4-H councils, 4-H club members and adult volunteers to make the Post Rock District 4-H program a success," shared Nora Rhoades, district youth development agent. "We appreciate every one of these contributions -- especially at 4-H Day. Together we are developing tomorrow's leaders, and we are proud of each participant's and volunteer's commitment to 'Make the Best Better'."

"Families appreciated both events because they gave opportunities to come together to practice skills and cheer for each other," said Kim Naber, 4-H program coordinator. Tonia Underwood, 4-H program coordinator, added, "It was fun and important for our youth from Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne and Smith counties to meet together and compete in district-wide 4-H Day events."

Kansas 4-H has more than 40 project areas, so individual youth can find their spark and learn how to excel in that area. If interested in joining Post Rock District 4-H, contact your local Extension office at 785-378-3174.

Jewell County 4-H members, club, presentation, placings and location:

Blaine Frost - Mankato Eager Beavers, intermediate demonstration, outstanding presentation sensation, Smith Center

Devyn Frost - Mankato Eager Beavers, junior demonstration, purple, Smith Center; Junior reading, purple, Smith Center

Waysen Colson - Mankato Eager Beavers, intermediate project talk, blue, Smith Center; Intermediate reading, red, Smith Center

Whitley Frost - Mankato Eager Beavers, public speaking, purple, Smith Center

Abbey Schleifer - Prairie Shooters, senior reading, outstanding presentation sensation, Beloit

Claire Walker - Prairie Shooters, junior instrumental solo, blue, Beloit

Lily Walker - Prairie Shooters, junior instrumental solo, blue, Beloit

Nelson Underwood - Prairie Shooters, senior reading, blue, Beloit; senior instrumental solo, white, Beloit

Prairie Shooters 4-H Club - Skit group, blue, Beloit

Haylee Fuller - Webber Wide Awake, intermediate illustrated talk, blue, Beloit

Lenden Worm - Webber Wide Awake, senior instrumental solo, purple, Beloit