Recently, 4-H youth Jase Gorrell, Colton Ryan, Abigail Buchanan and Sadie Lindholm gave presentations in front of Cornell Cooperative Extension 4-H judges. They are four of seven Chenango County presenters selected to move on to compete in District Finals. (Submitted photos)

NORWICH — Recently, 4-H youth gave presentations in front of Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) 4-H judges, covering a diverse range of topics in divisions including Formal Speech, Recitation, Illustrated Talk, Horse Communication, and more.

“A few of the 4-H participants were professional speakers with years of practice, while others were presenting for their first or second time,” said CCE 4-H Youth and Families Supervisor Kristi Gorrell.

The seven youth selected by 4-H judges were Sadie Lindholm, 9, with “All About Beagles”; Jase Gorrell, 10, with “Understanding Xbox Controllers”; Abigail Buchanan, 11, with “How to Care For A New Foal”; Colton Ryan, 13, with “Engines!”; Shaelan Ryan, 13, with “From Hoof to Heart: Finding the Right Horse For You”; Makayla Camenga, 13, with “The Mystery of Shergar”; and Maria Funk,14, with “Plants Not Fine For Equine”.

Gorrell said they will represent Chenango County to compete in District Finals on April 12, in Ithaca.

“The kids invited to move on will be competing against other kids from the South Central 4-H District,” continued Gorrell. “Numerical scores will be given by evaluators with higher expectations than at the county level.”

Gorrell said general topic participants will receive ribbons and certificates will be awarded to all participants before leaving.

“Kids will also have the opportunity to showcase their accomplishments by presenting at the New York State Fair this summer on a non-competitive stage with kids from all over the state,” she added.