State 4-H Conference Set for July

Date:  June 26, 1997
Editor: D'Lyn Ford  (505) 646-6528, dlford@nmsu.edu

LAS CRUCES -- Kids from all 33 New Mexico counties will compete in a variety of contests from livestock judging to rating consumer products during the State 4-H Conference in Las Cruces, July 14-19. Four-H is a New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service program.

More than 600 4-H members will participate in a nonstop schedule of contests, recreation and educational workshops on the NMSU campus.

"We have more than 32 contests for the kids to compete in," said Cheryl Butterfield, Extension 4-H youth activities specialist. "In livestock, horse and dairy judging, the kids select the best animal from a group and explain the reasons for their selection."

In another contest, consumer decision making, 4-H members judge everyday products such as hair dryers or other electrical appliances, and select the best product for their lifestyle.

"This year, we have a relatively new contest -- favorite foods," Butterfield said. "For this competition, the kids will bring all of the ingredients and prepare one of their favorite dishes. Then they will set a table for the judges to sample each item."

Leadership sessions will be held each evening, led by the state 4-H officers. Officer candidates for the coming year will present their campaign speeches.

In addition to fashion revue, public speaking and judging contests, there also will be competitions in riflery and archery, quiz bowls about horses and home economics, and presentations on health and the environment.

For more information about 4-H or the state conference, contact your county Extension office or call the New Mexico 4-H office toll-free at 1-888-646-5204.