Sibbald News, Mar. 17, 2021

Reported by Lee Switzer

Top of the morning to you, Happy St Patrick’s Day to everyone! I hope your are enjoying the sunshine and brilliant blue sky these days. Well, we survived another time change. Now maybe some folks have the “correct” time in their vehicles or on the PVR. Many of us don’t know how or simply don’t bother to change some clocks.

Hall walking has been swapped for outdoor strides up and down gravel roads. It’s good for the mind and body to be outside. More birds can be heard or seen each week as the temperatures rise.

Covid has certainly changed many aspects of our lives, some for the good. I have learned more about mobile banking and increased my knowledge of technology as I visit with my family weekly. My mom has even mastered FaceTime on an iPad, and she detests digital technology.

Local young people are still completing the public speaking component of 4-H but this year they have submitted their work virtually. This activity may have been a monologue, an interview, or a more traditional written speech or presentation. It’s very tough to watch yourself after being recorded and I am sure that there were a few retakes before submitting a final copy. Three judges will give feedback through the marking sheets. There will be no placements or further events. Well, this isn’t the usual formula for Public Speaking, its shows 4-H can be forward thinkers and still have students gain critical experience in public speaking.

Take care.