Greg Stewart served as Master of Ceremonies at the Carmi Kiwanis meeting on Thursday and introduced the Corn Queen, King, and their court. He also presented them with their well-deserved cash prize.
The candidates were: Emmaline Draper, Niah Haley, Sydney Stallings, Jaylinn Phillips, Lyla Wolff, and Mossyn Blazier. Corn King Nevan Jordan thanked Kiwanis for supporting 4-H and White County youth.
“Beyond showing projects, it’s given me opportunities to give back through community service and experience things that I wouldn’t have otherwise. I’m looking forward to representing Kiwanis and White County 4-H in the parades next fall.”
He explained that the trophy doesn’t have a home in his room, but he’s working to find space for it.
Corn Queen Katelyn Garner rounded out the speech by sharing her nine-year 4-H career as a Centerville Ripsnorter, including one year as Treasurer, three years as President, Teen Teacher, and a member of the Illinois Influencer State Ambassador Team.
“Being a teen teacher has been so fun. It’s helped me prepare for a career in education. As part of being a teen teacher, I’ve had to learn how to create a strong lesson plan, and how to provide lessons that all kids can participate in. Overall my time in 4-H has taught me a lot. It’s taught me leadership and better communication skills. 4-H cannot survive without the support of the community, so thank you (Kiwanis) for all you do for 4-H.”
White County 4-H Youth Development Program Coordinator Amy McCarty added that White County youth can still enroll in 4-H, with clubs including Centerville Ripsnorters, Enfield Blue Ribbons, Mad Hatters, Grayville Go Getters, War Horse, 76-Clovers, and the home school-based Wild Clovers.
McCarty also offered insight into possible Christmas excitement involving 4-H. Proposed activities include a Christmas tree decorating contest, a fashion show potentially involving local clothing businesses, and project options such as 3D-printed ornaments for sale and a bake sale.
Before getting underway with the Corn King and Queen introductions, Kiwanis member Luke Sailer introduced the winner of the 1937 T Bucket car auction to Mt. Carmel Mayor Joe Judge for $5,400.
Next week will feature Becoming HER: A Journey of Faith, Motherhood, and Finding Myself Again, by author Alexis Schmittler.