4-H Public Speaking Contest winners told

County finals of the 4-H Public Speaking Contest was held recently at Warren County Middle School. There were 71 4-H members in grades four through 12 who participated.

The 4-H members earned the right to compete in this contest by winning their class competition during the November club meeting. A total of 654 4-H’ers cross Warren County gave a three minute speech vying for the opportunity to advance to the county finals.

The 4-H Public Speaking Contest helps individuals develop communication skills while improving self-esteem. Learning good sportsmanship and presentation techniques are also elements of this activity. The event is sponsored each year by Union Planters Bank with winners receiving trophies and ribbons.

“First place winners in each grade level received a free trip to 4-H camp and the opportunity to advance on to the Sub-Regional Public Speaking Contest,” noted Jamie Harris, extension agent.

Winners were as follows:

Fourth grade – Joanna Paz, Hickory Creek, first; K.C. Byars, West, second; Ben Wilson, Centertown, third.

Fifth grade – John Adam Turner, Dibrell, first; Emily Henry, Boyd Christian, second; Emily Gawel, Bobby Ray, third.

Sixth grade – Allen Betschart, WCMS, first; Dylan Pepper, WCMS, second; Brittany Weller, Boyd Christian, third.

Seventh – Lauren Lytle, WCMS, first; Lindsey Clayton, WCMS, second; Samantha Burchfield, WCMS, third.

Eighth – Joshua Moore, WCMS, first.

Ninth – Erika Betschart, WCHS, first; Lee Allen Turner, WCHS, second.

Tenth – Bethany Bouldin, WCHS, first; Drew Milligan, WCHS, second; Brittany Basham, WCHS, third.

Twelfth – Mary Beth Gribble, WCHS, first; Davey Britton, WCHS, second.