Released December 22, 2009
STILLWATER, Okla. – Oklahoma equine enthusiasts with an interest in helping youth learn and grow through horse programs should register now to attend the 2010 State 4-H Horse Leaders, Parents and Educators Conference.
Conducted by Oklahoma State University’s Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, the conference will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 23 at the OSU Animal Science Building in Stillwater. Cost is $10, to be paid at arrival.
“The goal of the Oklahoma Horse Project is to assist our youth in becoming ‘better hands’ on and off their horses,” said Dave Freeman, OSU Cooperative Extension equine specialist. “Involvement in 4-H helps them to develop and improve key life skills that stay with them their entire lives, helping to lead to success in further education and employment.”
Participants must pre-register no later than Jan. 15.
“Send your name, e-mail or phone information, county in which you participate or reside and an indication of whether you are a Certified 4-H Leader, parent or involved in another capacity,” Freeman said.
Registration should be sent by e-mail to david.freeman@okstate.edu or by conventional mail to: Dr. Dave Freeman, 201 Animal Science Bldg., Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078.
“Do not send any fees prior to attending, as the $10 will be collected at the door,” Freeman said. “More information will be provided via reply e-mail after your pre-registration is confirmed.”
Conference topics will include how involvement in 4-H affects positive youth development, life skills noted for collegiate student success, 4-H Project curriculum and materials offerings for life skill development, finding the real value in local horse programming efforts, horse behavior and training methods, successful planning and participation at group riding events and much more.
The OSU Animal Science Building is located on Monroe Street between Hall of Fame Avenue – which runs adjacent to the north side of Boone Pickens Stadium – and Farm Road, on the university’s Stillwater campus.
Anyone seeking additional information should contact Freeman by e-mail at david.freeman@okstate.edu or by phone at 405-744-6058. There is also a brochure about the conference available through http://www.ansi.okstate.edu/e-equine on the Internet.
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Writer: Donald Stotts, 405-744-4079, donald.stotts@okstate.edu
