his month I had the pleasure of taking three 4-H members from Wildcat District to the Citizenship in Action Conference (CIA). This conference is held each February in Topeka. Approximately 300 members from across the state participated. Members have the opportunity to help write mock legislation and then debate those bills on the floor of the Kansas House. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the legislative process and learning how to speak up and take a stand on items they are passionate about.
This year the members debated a bill on Veterans Benefits, The Opioid Crisis and the Ogallala Aquifer. Members had 20 minutes for debate of each bill and then voted on them. All three bills passed. Members also invited their legislators and senators to a nice banquet on Sunday evening. Wildcat District was joined by Representative Larry Hibbard and Senator Bruce Givens. Both are big supporters of 4-H and members met on Monday with Representative Hibbard in his office.
Wildcat member Baily Chaplin was on the state committee for planning the conference, led the opening session, and served as the official time keeper on the house floor during debate.
4-H members are 3.4 times more likely to contribute to their communities when compared to youth not involved. So proud of all our 4-H members.
We also had club days this month. No greater skill is learned at this event than learning to speak in front of people. Most people freeze at the idea of public speaking; however 4-H members thrive when doing it. 23 members gave a talk or demonstration and here in Wilson County we had 12 first-year members give a Show and Share. Show and Share is like show and tell, but it gets the kids in front of people to speak. I think 4-H is in good hands after watching these kids at our Community Soup Supper present their talks. So proud of all of them.
As spring approaches, so do many activities. I look forward to them all.
T