4-H Members Compete in Provincial Event

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Two hundred and fifty young Nova Scotians will take part in competitions during the 4-H Weekend on Friday, May 4 and Saturday, May 5 at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College in Bible Hill.

"The talent that members exhibit at the 4-H Weekend is profound. For the past 85 years our 4-H program help develop the skills of our young people who then become exceptional community leaders," said Brooke Taylor, Minister of Agriculture. "The 4-H Weekend is an excellent opportunity for families to socialize and for the public to experience the public speaking talent among the 4-H membership."

4-H members will participate in several events, including the woodsman contests, the Nova Scotia Horse Classic, public-speaking competitions and the 4-H Weekend Challenge.

"The confidence that our youth develop through this communications training is just one of the experiences that the 4-H program offers," said Arthur Pick, acting manager, 4-H and rural organizations with the Department of Agriculture. "The excellent communication skills of 4-H members is evident at all 4-H events and their expertise in speaking will benefit them as they become leaders in their careers and communities."

The highlight of the weekend is 4-H Night in Nova Scotia on May 5. 4-H members who have won provincial honours will present their winning speeches and demonstrations. Awards are presented to the winners of all competitions and to members and leaders who have won national 4-H travel awards. Several Friends of 4-H certificates will be presented to people who have made significant contributions to the 4-H program. The provincial 4-H host and hostess, who officially represent Nova Scotia's 4-H program, will be chosen.

Many activities are open to the public. Information is available online at www.gov.ns.ca/nsaf/4h/ .

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FOR BROADCAST USE:

     Two hundred and fifty young people from across the province

will attend the annual four-H Weekend at the Nova Scotia

Agricultural College in Bible Hill, from May 4th to 5th.

     The event showcases four-H members participating in woodsman

competitions, public speaking, the Nova Scotia Horse Classic and

the 4-H Weekend Challenge.

     The weekend finale will be held Saturday night (May 5th)

with an awards presentation.

     The public is invited to attend many of the events.

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Media Contact: Cheryl Chandler
              Department of Agriculture
              902-945-2902
              E-mail: chandlcl@gov.ns.ca