By GARETT VALCOURT
Holmes County 4-H members recently took part in 4-H Day at the Capitol, an educational event designed to give Florida youth firsthand insight into state government and civic engagement.
Participants had the opportunity to visit the Florida Capitol, step onto the House floor, and engage directly with elected officials. The day emphasized leadership development, civic responsibility, and an understanding of the legislative process.
In addition to exploring the workings of state government, Holmes County 4-H also highlighted the Florida 4-H State Tailgating/Grilling Program. As part of the event, the delegation hosted an interactive display showcasing the program’s partnership with Publix Super Markets and Sonny’s BBQ. Visitors were invited to create their own dry rub recipes, offering a hands-on look at food science and safety education within 4-H programming.
Throughout the day, youth participants learned about:
- The structure and function of Florida’s state government
- The value of active civic participation
- The role of youth voices in shaping community and policy
- Best practices in recipe development — including a lighthearted reminder about chili powder moderation
Holmes County 4-H members also met with several public officials, including Senator Jay Trumbull, former Representative Marti Coley, and Representative Rachel Plakon, a Holmes County native. These conversations provided students with meaningful perspectives on public service and leadership.
