Annual 4-H Weekend May 7

4-H members from across Nova Scotia will compete in provincial public speaking and demonstration competitions at the annual 4-H Weekend at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College in Truro, May 7 - 8.

"The 4-H program gives young Nova Scotians the opportunity to build confidence and skills that will help them today and throughout their professional lives," said Agriculture and Fisheries Minister, Chris d'Entremont.

The two-day provincial event will showcase the public speaking talents of 4-H members who have already won at the 4-H club, county and regional levels. A variety of activities -- such as square dancing, host and hostess and woodsman competitions -- will also be held throughout the weekend.

"The young people that compete at 4-H Weekend are poised, confident and have exceptional speaking skills for their age," said Liz Crouse, manager, 4-H and rural organizations. "We are pleased to be teaching all the 4-H youth exceptional speaking skills at an early age."

Also on May 8, two 4-H members will be selected as provincial 4-H host and hostess. This year, several friends of 4-H certificates will be presented to people who have made significant contributions to the 4-H program. A variety of social activities including clip-art, square dance, and woodsman competitions will also be held throughout the weekend.

The highlight of the weekend, 4-H Night in Nova Scotia, takes place on May 8 at 6 p.m. at the Cobequid Educational Centre in Truro. This event includes speeches, demonstrations and entertainment. Throughout the evening, awards will be presented to provincial communications competitors as well as the 4-H leaders and members who have won national travel awards.

The public is welcome to attend the weekend events and to experience the 4-H program. The complete program for 4-H Weekend is online at www.gov.ns.ca/nsaf/4h .