The public is invited to help West Virginia 4-H’ers celebrate 100 Years of 4-H Camping in the state with a live storytelling event featuring renowned storyteller Adam Booth.

Hosted by the West Virginia University Extension Service and West Virginia 4-H, the 100 Years of Camping free event takes place on Friday, July 24, at 8:30 p.m.in the WVU Mountainlair Ballrooms in Morgantown.

“Storytelling is all about bringing people of different cultures and backgrounds together to celebrate tradition,” said Alicia Cassels. WVU Extension Service curriculum specialist. “This model that celebrates heritage and inclusion is a key principle in our West Virginia 4-H camping program, and combining the two honors our campers, 4-H’ers and traditions in a fun and interactive way.”

Cassels says attendees are in for a treat far beyond a traditional campfire story. The stories are geared toward all age groups and feature themes that resonate with participants of all ages. Booth is known both locally and internationally for his unique style that blends traditional folklore with contemporary themes.

Combining the old with the new is something 4-H programs are no stranger to. For more than a century, 4-H’ers have participated in traditional programs like camping and agriculture, while newer offerings cover areas from technology to science — and State 4-H Days continues to evolve to meet youths’ needs.

This year, State 4-H Days will feature visits to the WVU planetarium, hands-on art experiences with College of Creative Arts’ faculty, robotics challenges and public speaking contests.

“Communication skills are at the core of this event,” Cassels said. “While on campus, these kids have the opportunity to communicate with their peers, college faculty, and now an internationally known storyteller who has built a career on his ability to articulate thoughts and ideas. It’s truly a memorable experience for the 4-H’ers who make their way to Morgantown this summer.”

4-H provides youth development opportunities in every county in West Virginia. To learn more about 4-H, contact your local county office of the WVU Extension Service, or visit ext.wvu.edu.

To learn more about State 4-H Days, contact Alicia Cassels at Alicia.Cassels@mail.wvu.edu, or visit bit.ly/state4hdays.

-WVU-

bd/07/17/15

CONTACT: Cassie Thomas, WVU Extension Service
304.293.8735, Cassie.Thomas@mail.wvu.edu

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