Two Seminole County 4-H members, Ella Allen and Huey Glasgow from the Konawa Club, recently traveled from Oklahoma to Denver, Colorado, to compete in the prestigious Western National 4-H Roundup. This annual event brings together 4-H members from across the country to showcase their skills, leadership, and accomplishments in various fields, including public speaking, project demonstrations, and more.

Ella and Huey both represented their county in the public speaking competition, with each competing in different categories. Ella participated in the impromptu speaking category, where competitors were given a random topic and only a few minutes to prepare their thoughts before delivering a speech. Ella’s quick thinking and confident delivery earned her 3rd place in her category—a remarkable achievement in such a competitive event.

Huey competed in the prepared speech category, where he presented a 5-7 minute speech on a pre-selected topic. Participants in this category were required to follow strict guidelines, delivering an original speech that educated, informed, or persuaded the audience. No visual aids or props were allowed, ensuring the focus remained on the speaker’s ability to communicate effectively. Huey’s 12th-place finish in this highly competitive category is a testament to his hard work, preparation, and strong public speaking skills, standing out among a talented group of participants.

Both Ella and Huey had to adhere to clear standards for content, structure, and delivery, as outlined by the event organizers. Their participation in this rigorous competition highlighted their dedication and preparation, showcasing not only their public speaking abilities but also their commitment to personal growth through 4-H.

The Western National 4-H Roundup offers an invaluable opportunity for young people to gain experience, expand their knowledge, and form lasting connections with peers from across the nation. Ella and Huey’s achievements are a proud reflection of the strong 4-H program in Seminole County and the support of their local community. Their success at the event exemplifies the lasting impact of 4-H in developing the leaders of tomorrow.

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