4-H Gala: Launching A Second Century

The North Carolina 4-H Youth Development Program, one of the premier 4-H programs in the nation, showed its support of over 240,000 young people and 30,000 adult volunteers at our 4-H Lifetime Achievement Awards Gala. This year’s 4-H Gala focused on “Launching A Second Century”. It was a fun-filled event showcasing some of today’s most exciting young people through their project exhibits and show-stopping entertainment. Held on Tuesday, April 6th at the Sheraton RTP Hotel, the celebration began with the Chairman’s Reception and Silent Auction at 6:00pm, followed by dinner, entertainment and recognition of two individuals and one individual inducted into the NC 4-H Hall of Fame. Mistress of Ceremonies for this event was Ms. Nefertiti Byrd, the 2009 Miss Black North Carolina, who is a North Carolina 4-H Alumna. Recognized as 4-H Lifetime Achievement guests this year were The Honorable Daniel Blue, NC State Senator of the 14^th District; Mr. Larry Stogner, ABC 11 Eyewitness News Senior Anchor; and Dr. Chester Black, Former State 4-H Leader and Hall of Fame Laureate.

At this year’s event, Person County 4-H was represented by Michael Chaney and Mikala Halbrook. Michael Chaney, County Council Reporter, and Mikala Halbrook, County Council Secretary, were two of the few 4-H’ers chosen to attend. They were asked to present the TechXcite Program that teaches science and technology through the use of kits and modules, such as solar powered cars, bionic arms and circuits.. This curriculum was developed by the Duke Engineering School and was implemented in several schools within Person County. Michael and Mikala had the honor of meeting and presenting this program to all of the guests and honorees. "Through this opportunity, we not only gained knowledge and understanding of the science and technology field but we also had an awesome time in the process. This was an incredible experience and another example of the many exciting avenues of 4-H", said Michael Chaney, County Council Reporter.