DATE: 6/11/07

CONTACT: Amy McCune, (864) 656-6651; amccune@clemson.edu

WRITER: Diane Palmer, (864) 656-4741; spalmer@clemson.edu

2007 State 4-H Congress to meet at Clemson University

CLEMSON—4-H’ers from across the state will converge at Clemson University July 15-18 for the 45th annual State 4-H Congress.

The theme for this year is "007: License to Succeed." The congress will meet at the Hendrix Student Union.

"The 2007 State 4-H Congress brings to Clemson some of our state's finest young people, representing the more than 61,000 youth involved in South Carolina 4-H," said Kellye Rembert, Clemson University state 4-H leader.

The 4-H'ers will be between the ages of 14 and 19, and 25 county staff and volunteers will accompany them

The Congress agenda provides participants an opportunity meet other youths through workshops and activities. This year’s mission is 4-H’ers GROW – Give Respect to Others Willingly.

"State 4-H Congress is an awards event filled with many fun and educational activities. It is also one of the most valuable experiences for senior 4-H members like me" said Justin Steedly, state 4-H teen council president.

Outstanding 4-H'ers selected to represent South Carolina at National 4-H Congress and National 4-H Conference, along with the winners of four Clemson Presidential Trays will be honored during an awards assembly on Tuesday evening, July 17. Tray winners will receive a $1,000 scholarship.

The tray is the highest state award given to a 4-H'er. Winners are chosen for excellence in projects and involvement in their local communities.

4-H is a community of young people across America who are learning leadership, citizenship, and life skills. The South Carolina 4-H Youth Development Program uses a learn-by-doing approach, the involvement of caring adults, and the knowledge and resources of Clemson University and the land grant university system to empower youth to become healthy, productive, and contributing members of society.

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