May 28, 2002

MECKLENBURG COUNTY TO HOST
4-H LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS GALA

U.S. Senator and Racing Legend Among the 2002 Honorees

Charlotte, NC – Although 4-H may have been born on the farm, these days fewer than two percent of 4-H members actually live on a farm. Members hail from Charlotte, Greensboro, Raleigh, and everywhere in between – learning valuable lessons about life, leadership and service. 

On Thursday, May 30, 2002, Mecklenburg County Cooperative Extension’s 4-H Youth Development will host 4-H members and corporate sponsors from across North Carolina.   The “Celebrating 100 Years of 4-H Excellence” LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS GALA will be held at the Adams Mark Hotel at 555 South McDowell Street in Charlotte.     

The gala begins at 6:30pm with a “4-H Showcase Reception” and silent auction.  The reception will include interactive exhibits, kids’ activities and entertainment to demonstrate how 4-H makes a difference in young lives.  The gala culminates with dinner at 7:45pm and the presentation of the 2002 4-H Lifetime Achievement Awards:  

·        U.S. Senator Jesse Helms (in absentia)

·        Racing legend Ned Jarrett

·        Agriculture and business leader Lois Britt

·        Education leader Dr. Dudley Flood 

Outstanding 4-H talent from the area will also perform during the dinner.  Funds collected from the gala support curriculum development, awards and incentives for outstanding achievements by members, volunteer training, camp programs for disadvantaged children and innovative teen programs.  Because Syngenta has graciously underwritten the event, 100% of the corporate sponsorships will provide direct benefit to 4-H members, volunteers, and staff.