Pierce County 4-H members recently showcased their dedication, talent and hard work at the Southeast District Project Achievement Contest.
The DPA contest was held at Rock Eagle in Eatonton. A total of 535 students competed in this prestigious event. Competition was fierce, with students presenting three to four-page portfolios highlighting their yearly project work and accomplishments, followed by a presentation or demonstration.
During the event, Junior and Senior 4-H members also campaigned to be on the 4-H District Junior and Senior Board. Pierce County proudly supported Peyton D'Aurio as she ran for Senior Board. Her campaign slogan was 'Vote Peyton D'Aurio for Double the Fun and Double Impact!' featuring an Oreo-themed campaign.
The following students placed in their divisions for a variety of subject matter: Junior Division:
• Financial Planning – Addison Waters – 1st Place
• Health – Trinity Spivey – 3rd Place
• Photography & Videography – Madison Grace Geary – 1st Place
• Poultry – Hailey Williams – 3rd Place
• Veterinary Science – Valarie Barrera – 3rd Place • Workforce Preparation – Alyssa Thompson – 2nd Place Senior Division:
• Computer Information Technology – Kaley Bartolotta – 3rd Place. Bartolotta also received a camp scholarship.
• Entomology – Lyla McCullers – 3rd Place
• Health – Alayda Anderson – 2nd Place. Anderson is also advancing to State 4-H Congress as sweepstakes winner due to high participation in her project area.
• History – Briley Harris – 3rd Place
• Human Development – Peyton D’Aurio – 6th Place
• Human Development – Nevaeh Baitey – 10th Place
• International – Joselyn Barrera – 6th Place
• Performing Arts – Drama – Addison Folette – 3rd Place
• Performing Arts – General – Ayden Crews – 8th Place
• Performing Arts – Vocal – Melvin Sallet – 8th Place
• Public Speaking – Hayden Isler – 4th Place
• Workforce Preparation – Paige Folette – 1st Place. Folette is also advancing to State 4-H Congress.
• Workforce Preparation – Abby Hicks – 3rd Place Graduating seniors Kaley Bartolotta and Melvin Sallet were recognized at DPA during the Graduating Senior Reception.
Kaley Bartolotta’s 4-H accomplishments include serving as a Teen Leader for 6 years, being a DPA participant every year since 5th grade and a BB team participant for 4 years. Her future plans are to attend college, majoring in computer science with a minor in theater.
Melvin Sallet’s 4-H accomplishments include being a 4-H member for 8 years, competing in DPA, serving as a Teen Leader and participating in many 4-H events . Sallet’s future goals are to attend South Georgia State College and after college, pursuing his dream of teaching musical theater.
“Our students have represented our community with excellence and determination. We are thrilled to celebrate their achievements and look forward to their continued success,” said 4-H county agent Billie Ann King. “Congratulations to all our 4-H participants for their hard work and wellearned recognition!”
King and program assistant Carrie Carter also extended a note of gratitude to several sponsors for supporting the students in attending Junior Senior District Project Achievement, including Robert Reeves, Jack Bourla, Rebecca Mullis, Sonia Crawford and Cybersafe. “Their support and contributions have been invaluable in making this event a success,” said King.
