A delegation representing thousands of 4-H members in New York State will expand their knowledge of the public policy process and state government when they travel to Albany March 3 to 5, 2013 for the 78th annual 4-H Capital Days event. Nearly 80 teen 4-H delegates from 37 counties, their chaperones and Extension 4-H staff will participate in this year’s program.

During this year’s event, 4-H members, volunteer leaders, and Extension 4-H staff will meet with leaders in state government, members of the court system and officials from a variety of state agencies. In addition, they plan to observe a working session of the state legislature. Member of the Assembly, Robert C. Oaks, will discuss the legislative process with the 4-H delegation, Member of the Assembly, Peter Lopez, will highlight ways youth can make a difference in their communities through civic engagement, and New York State Senator Catharine Young, a 4-H alumnus, will share some personal perspectives on her experiences in the New York State Legislature. Another keynote speaker for this year’s 4-H Capital Days program will be Laura Ladd Bierman, Executive Director of the League of Women Voters of New York State, who will focus on the organization’s history, mission, legislative agenda and the importance of voting.

4-H participants will have the opportunity to share their 4-H stories with their legislative representatives at a legislative breakfast, learn about career opportunities in state government as they visit state agencies, tour the New York State Capitol and visit the Corning Tower and New York State Museum.

Representing the 4-H program in Fulton and Montgomery Counties at 4-H Capital Days this year will be 4-H members Hayley Claes of St. Johnsville, Amber Morey of Fonda and Dayna Peck of Gloversville. Mrs. Bonnie Peck, Extension Educator with Cornell Cooperative Extension in Fulton and Montgomery Counties, will accompany the delegates. Mrs. Linda Wegner, Extension Team Leader with Cornell Cooperative Extension in Fulton and Montgomery Counties, serves on the 4-H Capital Days Steering Committee and will also participate in the upcoming program.

The New York State Association of Cornell Cooperative Extension 4-H Educators plans and implements the annual 4-H Capital Days program. For more information regarding local opportunities in 4-H youth development contact Cornell Cooperative Extension in Fulton and Montgomery Counties at 673-5525 located at 50 East Main Street in Canajoharie, New York.