Mastery of skills is an important element of the 4-H program, and each year, youth across Escambia County pursue educational projects that help them develop knowledge in areas such as raising livestock, robotics, leadership and citizenship, environmental and outdoor education, shooting sports and marine science. As part of a project, participating 4-H youth can choose to demonstrate their skills in competitive events at the County level, with winners who receive a blue ribbon for their entry being able to advance to the district, and eventually, the state level to showcase their knowledge and abilities.
This year, Escambia County 4-H participated in a variety of events and were able to send four of its talented youth to state level competitions at 4-H University - a week-long overnight event for senior 4-H youth (ages 14 to18) held at the University of Florida. Attendees participated in educational workshops led by University of Florida faculty and explored career opportunities, interacted with youth from all over the state and worked on life skills that will help them become productive and engaged citizens within their very own community.
Winners from Escambia County are Danielle Tinker and Michelle Tinker, who took a 1st place/blue ribbon in Team Demonstrated/Illustrated Talk in Animal Industry; Amanda Tanner taking a 1st place/blue ribbon in Public Speaking. Danielle Tinker and Karrigan Scott with a 1st place/blue ribbon in Share the Fun. In the category of Senior Photography, Amanda Tanner won 1st place in Flora, 2nd place in 4-H Theme and Evan Bush took 1st place in 4-H Theme. For Intermediate Photography, Ami Rodgers won 1st place in Flora, 2nd place in Architectural Design, and 2nd place for Photo Story. In addition to winning in competitive events, Danielle Tinker was also elected Florida 4-H state treasurer and also won a travel scholarship to the National 4-H Congress.
