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CORVALLIS, Ore. – Twenty-six finalists from 13 Oregon counties, representing the Oregon State University Extension Service's 4-H Youth Development program, have been selected to participate in formal interviews to determine who will attend the 2007 4-H National Congress in Atlanta, Ga.

Selection of the finalists was based on overall achievement in 4-H projects, leadership, communication, citizenship, community service and readiness to benefit from the congress experience.

The selection interviews will be held this June, and the selected members will travel to Atlanta during Thanksgiving weekend to attend this year's congress, themed, " Accept the Challenge." The Oregon 4-H Foundation, in partnership with Oregon donors, sponsors the trip, which is considered the National 4-H program's premier annual event.

"This is an important opportunity for Oregon 4-H members," said Roger Rennekamp, the OSU Extension 4-H program leader. "For many members, Congress is the culmination of a long-term commitment to 4-H and we are proud to have so many successful members attending from across Oregon."

The 26 Oregon 4-H finalists and their counties are:

• Benton: Stuart Ashenbrenner, David Baglien, John Baglien, Jonathon Brink-Roby, Pam Lundeberg, Cassandra Noble.
• Clackamas: Jessica Black, Audrey Marconi, Jana Soli, Kelsey Walker.
• Clatsop: Rebekah Miller.
• Columbia: Morgan Von Poppenheim.
• Curry: Dee Dee Christensen.
• Jackson: Tillie Brotherton, John Gladman.
• Lane: T. Brett Deedon, Cassy Sturgill, Kylie Zettle.
• Morrow: Kelsey Wolff.
• Polk: Katie Tipton.
• Tillamook: Tim Wetzel.
• Union: Robert Hoadley, Thomas J. Stratton.
• Wallowa: Tessa Kuppinger, Kyle Neal.
• Washington: Heather Lanphier.