UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- More than 900 teens from across the state will participate in Penn State 4-H Achievement Days, July 24-26, at Penn State's University Park campus. Penn State 4-H Achievement Days is an annual three-day educational program that gives 13- to 19-year-olds the opportunity to showcase their knowledge and achievements in a statewide competition. Top competitors get the opportunity to qualify for national events.

"There are 123,220 4-H members across the state, encompassing 4,610 clubs and activities," says Phil Hoy, youth program management coordinator in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences. "All year, they work with adult volunteers to become self-directed, productive and contributing members of our diverse society. Achievement Days gives them a chance to test their skills and meet other youngsters from throughout Pennsylvania. They have experiences and make friends that will benefit them for the rest of their lives."

Twenty-four different contests will take place in such areas as physical fitness, orienteering, public speaking, livestock, dairy and horse judging. "Canine Superbowl" contestants will test their dog know-how in a quiz bowl and skillathon. Regional finalists who created clothing in fashion projects will compete in a fashion review at 8 p.m., July 25 at Eisenhower Auditorium on the University Park campus. The fashion show is free and open to the public.

For a brochure or more information, contact Phil Hoy by phone at 814-863-7873 or by e-mail at http://pa4h.cas.psu.edu.

Achievement Days are co-sponsored by Agway Equine Feeds, Raskas Cheese Products of Pennsylvania, and Wiscoy Pet Food Co. In addition, Springs Window Fashions provided scholarship funds for participants from Lycoming County and Moyer Packing Company provided support for Montgomery County participants.

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EDITORS: For more information, contact Phil Hoy at 814-863-7873.

Contacts:

Gary Abdullah gxa2@psu.edu 814-863-2708 814-865-1068 fax