Sixty-six 4-H members in grades fourth through sixth recently participated in the county finals of the 4-H Public Speaking Contest  held at the Warren County Administrative Building. The 4-H members earned the right to compete in this contest by winning their class competition during the November 4-H club meeting. 
A total of 794 4-H members across the county gave their speech hoping for the opportunity to advance to the county competition. The contest helps individuals develop their communication skills while improving self-esteem. Learning good sportsmanship and presentation techniques are also elements of this activity. The 4-H program is open to any eligible person regardless of race, color, national origin, sex or disability. The first-place winner in each grade received trophies and ribbons, with the grade level first-  and second-place participants advancing to the sub-regional Public Speaking Contest. Seventh through 12th grade 4-H members will give their speeches in January with the winner in each grade division advancing on to the regional contest.
Winners are as follows: 
Fourth grade — first, Emma Kate Wrather, Covenant Academy; second, Gretchen Stuart, Dibrell;  third, Claire Brooks, Hickory Creek
Fifth grade — first, Alora Stuart, Dibrell; second, Rachel Watts, Bobby Ray; third, Addy Stanley, Covenant Academy
Sixth grade — first, Emily Pennington, Warren County Middle School; second, Meghan Madewell, WCMS; third, Rachel Stewart, WCMS
Seventh grade — first, Grant Hitchcock, WCMS; second, Shelby Love, WCMS, third, Ian Pursley, Morrison
Eighth grade — CJ Rogers-, WCMS
Ninth grade — First, Wilson Love, Warren County High School;  second, Austin Barry, WCHS;  third, Mitchell Woodlee, WCHS
Tenth grade — Clay Prater, WCHS
Eleventh grade — Heather Colwell, WCHS