Autumn 2001 Newsletters
4-H and FFA
Look for Local Apples
Today the selection of fruit in the supermarket throughout the year is so complete, that shoppers barely notice the seasons of locally grown products. This is especially true with apples. Yet, it is important to buy locally grown produce for it’s fresh flavor as well as to support local farms.
There is something you can do as teachers and shoppers to help support local growers. Ask your produce manager which items are locally grown and encourage him/her to carry a larger selection of these products. This will help to support family farms, which are important in preserving a greenbelt for all to enjoy.
When you purchase fresh apples look for one of these five varieties: McIntosh, Scotland, Macoun, Empire or Paula Red. These varieties are all grown locally in abundance. Check the stickers on the fruit; they also tell the variety and country of origin.
Choose apples without wax; since most local growers do not use it. The wax does not enhance the fruit; and is used primarily to make the apple shiny. It also reduces respiration, so that fruit can be stored for a longer time. In some cases fungicide is added with the wax.
Federal labeling laws require supermarkets to explicitly label all food additives and their ingredients. Apples with wax are not labeled. Let’s all get on the "applebox" and require this federal labeling law to be properly enforced.
Learn the season for the fresh fruits you enjoy and watch for newspaper advertisements or contact the Mass. Department of Food and Agriculture for your nearest supplier. Take the children for a day of " Pick-Your-Own" and give them some farm experiences they will enjoy and remember.
David Cheney, Cheney Orchards, Inc.
4-H: More than you Imagined!
4-H is the youth development organization of the Cooperative Extension System of our Land Grant University. In New England, those institutions are the University of Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont or Maine. The value and learning opportunities of 4-H go far beyond the livestock shows you might see at a local fair.
When you hear of the national youth organizations called 4-H or FFA or FHA, what do you envision? Cows? Horses? Slippers made to match a robe? Selling holiday trees or plants? Or the home economics classroom of your 7th grade experience? Those may be very realistic memories but today there is so much more than you imagined to these youth development organizations!
4-H is many things. It is a national juried curriculum in selected project areas. It is an international youth development program targeted to citizenship and leadership development and made possible by the commitment of thousands of adult volunteers who believe in "The Power of Youth". Those of us committed to the 4-H Youth Development program know that 4-H makes a difference in people's lives.
When a child learns to clean up after her animal at a show, she is learning good citizenship. When 4-H youth members travel to Washington D.C. and meet with their Congressional delegate to promote the Younger Americans Act, they are learning good citizenship. When those same youth return to their state and share their experiences with their local club or camp, they are strengthening their leadership skills.
4-H youth plan, operate, and evaluate 4-H fairs in the state and across New England. Leadership skills are developed as fair board members decide how to educate the public on the dangers of rabies, foot and mouth disease or the risk of E-coli from touching an animal and then not washing your hands before eating.
Older youth have an opportunity to take their experiences at the local level and showcase their project at a show or fair. Many youth serve on planning committees for state teen leadership conferences and 4-H events and activities, once again learning leadership development skills.
4-H will celebrate its 100th birthday in 2002 and is still as important in the development of youth as it was at its inception. Contact your local county Extension System office or visit the National 4-H Council web site for more insight and information.
Nancy H. Bull, Associate Director Cooperative Extension System, University of Connecticut
What is FFA
FFA, formerly called Future Farmers of America, makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. FFA agricultural education prepares students for successful careers and a lifetime of informed choice in the global agriculture, food, fiber and natural resources systems. Participation in FFA agricultural education also helps youth develop the employability skills recommended by the U.S. Secretary of Labor Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills (SCANS).
4-H Education: A Personal Perspective
The youngest of four, and the least academically inclined (relative to traditional education standards), I found myself constantly challenged to work hard at receiving average grades. 4-H offered me another outlet of learning, a different educational format in which I was able to succeed. Looking back on my childhood experiences I now realize that my individual learning style was not one that could closely align with success in the traditional academic setting.
A visual person, I discovered "Learn By Doing" (the 4-H Motto) was a process that made sense. Activity and involvement were exciting for me. Drive and determination were never lacking in my demeanor. Those things foreign to me were effective and efficient reading, comprehension and memorization.
Participation in team competitions gave me the chance to express leadership in a small group. It is truly amazing to look back and dissect these experiences, seeing all the various skills developed, while focusing on a specific venue.
Through dairy judging competitions, I was expected to evaluate a class of animals, prioritize my reasons for the placing, then speak to an official expressing my thoughts and defending my placing. Not only was I evaluated as an individual, but I was also competing as part of a team. Organized thinking, clear and concise explanation, and public speaking were a few of the skills developed through these events. I competed at the county, state and national levels. This pyramid of contests allowed me to continue honing my skills.
As part of the winning state team at the national contest, we were invited to compete at the international contest in Wales, UK. The multitude of educational outlets we were exposed to through these competitions reached far beyond the focused skill group. We were able to experience new countries, new cultures and other management philosophies and practices within the dairy industry, world-wide.
Twelve years later I was fortunate to teach at the college level with responsibility for coaching the college dairy judging team. Students always seemed to be nervous, concentrating specifically on the contests. Through years of personal experience I had learned that the contests were a very small percentage of the entire judging experience.
Contests represent only a few days of the judging activity. The true learning is in the months and years of the process. Giving a great number of oral presentations justifying their class placings during countless practices at various farms provides tremendous educational value. This process offers youth an opportunity to see many farm operations, management styles and business theories. Honing speaking skills is a constant in this process, along with traveling through various parts of the country.
In an effort to help students recognize the educational process while emphasizing that the contests were merely a culmination of their learning, I decided to make a list of skills I noticed the students developing and those goals on which I wanted them to focus. The following is the list of skills and qualities I recognized as a result of practicing for the contests and the judging competitions themselves: 1) time and energy commitment and responsibility; 2) hard work and discipline; 3) positive group interactions, constructive feedback, respect and working as a team and supporting one another; organizing thoughts, prioritizing when justifying and defending choices, speaking in front of others and public speaking skills; and integrity, honesty & conduct and positive competitive attitude.
This also gave me the opportunity to share with them the importance of all these characteristics as life skills. Skills which they may carry into all aspects of their lives. "Learning life skills" is a more recent phrase used within 4-H. As I reflect on all of my 4-H experiences I clearly see how these educational venues (contests, shows, fairs) have directly and positively impacted my life. I know these activities afforded me a foundation of self-confidence from which I have been able to springboard into exciting jobs and effectively approach life challenges.
It is my hope that educators and school administrators recognize the arm of education which 4-H and FFA youth competitions extend from our traditional classroom environment. As learning styles vary with youth, it is exciting to know we can meet the spectrum of needs through non-formal, hands-on educational venues. Seeing a child’s success and growth in confidence and positive self image, all built from within, is the fulfillment of a common goal of which we can all be proud.
Jerry Myers, Director of Agriculture & Education at Eastern State Exposition and MAC Board member.
What FFA Meant to Me
It would be an understatement for me to say that "I would not be doing what I am today if it was not for the FFA." FFA is truly one of those organizations that better the whole person through leadership development and personal development. The interpersonal skills taught through the program rival any professional leadership-training program in which I have participated. Someone once told me that they had a degree from RLU "Real Life University". That is exactly what FFA gives students studying Agricultural Education. The real life experience of going through a job interview, public speaking, writing a press release, defending a decision made during a judging contest in front of a judge, all give students practical real life experiences that are put to use each day.
FFA also teaches students the value of doing what is right. From encouraging work skills in a vocational setting to community involvement by helping school children learn where their food comes from. Most importantly the friendships developed through the FFA last a lifetime. I now have friends across the country that come from all walks of life, from raising chickens in Virginia to working for USDA in Montana. FFA is an effective educational tool and all schools offering agricultural education should complete their program by having an active FFA chapter.
Jeffrey LaFleur is Executive Director of the Cape Cod Cranberry Growers’ Association. Jeff was the Massachusetts State FFA President in 1987-88 and MAC Board President in 1994-95.
Building A Better Future
One hundred years from now, will our great-grandchildren look back and praise us for preserving their earth, protecting their water, and raising up capable, value-driven leaders? Or will they shake their heads and wonder how we could have entered a new millennium so woefully misguided?
In this politically charged election year, it’s a good time for those of us who support 4-H to consider the impact we can have on our communities, both locally and globally through the combination of four simple ideas: Head, Heart, Hands and Health.
The agricultural roots of 4-H bind us to the past with a strong emphasis on character and hands-on skills. These roots also provide direction for the future, as we demonstrate how solid values and technical know-how can enrich a young person’s life, whether it’s learning animal-assisted therapy, rocketry or leadership skills. 4-H has evolved to meet the needs of our changing culture.
And yet, in an era when we are bombarded with negative and even frightening news about American youth, so little is known about this outstanding program and our remarkable 4-H participants.
Ask a friend or neighbor unfamiliar with 4-H to describe the program, and they’re likely to say. "Oh. It’s about cows and country fairs, right? Wrong, Just as the term, "agriculture," now covers a diverse range of issues, so does the 4-H program.
We teach natural resource management, environmental stewardship and thoughtful consumerism. We raise leaders who care about the environment and about their fellow human beings. We challenge young people to dream, to create, to think and to follow their hearts.
What greater legacy could one generation have than to endow the next generation with the values and practical skills that will help lead the way toward a brighter future?
Jay L. Healy is Massachusetts’ Commissioner of Agriculture and a member of the 4-H Foundation and Advisor to the MAC Board of Directors.
First printed in the 4-H Foundation Magazine
4-H: A Volunteer’s Perspective
Most people think of fairs as the midway, entertainment and cotton candy. For 4-H and FFA members, fairs mean judging and quiz bowl competitions, public speaking contests and participating in animal, plant and engineering shows.
As a 4-H volunteer, I am constantly asked by parents to explain to teachers and school systems why a child should be excused from class to attend a fair. This provides an excellent opportunity to educate others about these wonderful informal educational programs.
4-H and FFA members attend fairs to compete in science based project areas. Those entering dairy, horse or livestock judging activities, have to learn muscular and skeletal systems inside and out. Not only do they learn to evaluate animal conformation, form and movement, but they defend their placing by delivering a two minute oral explanation to an official judge. These officials are industry leaders who enjoy interacting with future agriculture leaders.
Youth entered in the various quiz bowls learn many things about their contest area including nutrition, breeding, genetics, agribusiness and bio-technology. They refine learning skills and enhance their capacity for instant recall. Most adults would have a hard time listening to questions, hitting the buzzer and giving an instant answer in front of an auditorium full of people.
Engineering events are becoming more popular with teens. Through 4-H and FFA youth take apart engines and put them back together again. They learn to develop and use computer programs for diagnostic engine work. Safety programs are a high priority, and contests include carrying out correct operation of farm equipment.
Learning life skills are important in both 4-H and FFA. Carrying out and honing those life skills in a fun location, make the experience much more memorable. At the end of the day, there are some students who do head for the midway, entertainment and cotton candy. However, you will find even more back in the barns or exhibition areas networking with other contestants, friends, 4-H volunteers and FFA advisors about the day they just had.
Bonnie Burr is Lobbyist for the Connecticut Farm Bureau
Everyone’s Invited to Participate
There are more than sixty fairs held all over the state of Massachusetts between the months of March and November of each year. These fairs have a variety of themes; some are local or town fairs, other specialize in one type of animal or flower and still others are limited to youth.
Massachusetts fairs are always very receptive to new exhibitors who wish to show off their talents, whether it's a plate of vegetables or a rabbit project. These fairs offer various levels of competition. Major fairs have open class categories for those who are advanced or expert, while our youth and Grange fairs allow the beginner the experience needed
It is easy to enter competitions at the fairs. Call or write the contact person and request a premium book. These books are printed annually and specify which classes are being offered in the various categories such as aged beef cow over two years; jewelry, hand wrought, or two jars of canned peaches.
The premium book will explain all the needed information on how to enter, when to bring your exhibit to the fair, when to return to pick up your exhibit and how much you can win if your entry is first, second or third.
Fairs are truly a New England tradition. They have been part of Massachusetts for over 190 years. For more information or a book listing the dates and descriptions of all of Massachusetts Fairs contact the Bureau of Fairs, Dept. of Food and Agriculture, 251 Causeway Street, Suite 500, Boston, MA 02114.
Steve Quinn is Director of Fairs for the Massachusetts Department of Food and Agriculture
Benefits of Youth Shows
The following are excerpts from a Texas study, evaluating the educational and social advantages resulting from animals project competitions. These characteristics and benefits have been repeatedly cited and supported by volunteers and staff throughout Massachusetts and New England.
The purpose of the study was to validate the benefits gained through competitive livestock showing by 4-H members. Participants of the study were 4-H members, parents, advisors, and show officials. The study used in-depth interviews, field observations and review of historical documents. Six major benefits emerged: social relations, character, family, competition, new cultures and environments and finance for education.
Development of Social Relations
The development of social relations was a key life skill gained by exhibitors, and a main component of developing 4-H youth into productive and contributing members of society. Through social interactions at a young age, participants learned to meet and get along with people - an important life skill. At shows, exhibitors are not only given a chance to interact with people with a similar interest, but they have an opportunity to make social contacts for their futures. Participants may even establish relationships leading to college and possible future careers. These interactions also meet the human need for companionship and camaraderie.
Development of Character
The development of character includes development of responsibility, work ethic, decision-making skills, sportsmanship and exposure to the loss of something cared for such as an animal. Through 4-H projects youth learn that caring for animals requires time and dedication. Exhibitors who commit to showing livestock also experience hard work and how it can bring many rewards. Exhibitors are required to make many decisions, both simple and complex. They acquire sportsmanship abilities in the livestock show ring; learning to accept it when they do not win and to be humble when they do. Participants also learn an important lesson regarding the value of life; since at the end of each livestock show season and exhibitor typically sells his or her animal through the show ring.
Family
Shows involve the whole family, since children of various ages are able to get involved. Through livestock shows, families travel as a family unit that is working toward a common goal and experiencing new environments. Parents are given the opportunity to be a teacher, model and example for their child to observe and try to develop the same positive traits.
Competition
Livestock competitions are unique in that there can be different levels of success. You have a first and a last, but you can have numerous participants placed in between. A child does not have to be the fastest, the strongest or the most talented.
New Cultures and Environments
Livestock shows can educate those involved about how not every thing is the same as it is in their hometown. Through seeing and meeting new cultures and being thrown into new environments exhibitors can gain new knowledge and grow as individuals.
Finance for Education
While livestock shows are no way to get rich, they can provide money for a child’s future education. Through education an individual can become more open-minded and grow as a person to become a contributing member of society.
Young Farmers Program
The Farm Bureau Young Farmers program, includes both men and women between the ages of eighteen and thirty five. The objective of the program is to provide leadership in building a more effective Farm Bureau, to improve individual freedoms and expand opportunities in agriculture.
The program offers leadership development, legislative awareness, educational conferences, networking with other farmers around the world, competitive events and involvement in the whole Farm Bureau program
Quiz Bowl
Challenge your knowledge with these questions. They have been selected from actual 4-H & FFA knowledge tests and quiz bowls given at various fairs:
- The opportunity for exporting dairy products is great. What percentage of the world’s population lives outside of the United States?
- What is sternal recumbency?
- True of False. The new U.S. Secretary of Agriculture is Ann Venemen.
- The enzyme used to coagulate milk when making cheese is called_____?
- What do new born calves have in common with new born human babies?
- How many gallons of blood are in a 1,500 pound cow?
- A study at the University of Idaho found that _________ was responsible for dual births (twins). a.) antibodies; b.) reproductive hormones; c.) high milk production; d.) all of the above
- Which of the following isn’t a Class 1 milk product? a.) whole milk; b.) skim milk; c.) chocolate milk; d.) cream
- Protein is formed from? a.) fat; b.) selenium; c.) amino acids;
- Thiamin, Niacin and Riboflavin contain which vitamin?
- What is the common name for mycobacterium paratuberculosis?
Answers: 1.) 96%; 2.) sitting a newborn calf upright with its knees under it so the lungs can expand more easily; 3.) true; 4.) rennet; 5.) both do not have a fully developed stomach at birth; 6.) 8 - 9 ½ gallons; 7.) all of the above; 8.) cream; 9.) amino acids; 10.) Vitamin B; 11.) Johne’s Disease
Youth Resources
| Massachusetts 4-H Office
Shirley A. Mietlicki, Program Director
204 Skinner Hall UMass
Amherst, MA 01003
(800) 374-4446 or (413) 545-2646
Fax: (413) 545-1002
e-mail: mietlicki@umext.umass.edu
Web Site: www.mass4h.org |
Massachusetts FFA
Kim LaFleur
Norfolk County Agricultural HS
400 Main Street
Walpole, MA 02081
(508) 668-0268 ext. 216
Fax: (508) 668-0612
e-mail: k_lafleur@norfolkaggie.org |
Massachusetts State Fairs and Shows
List of Youth Shows (Ages 9 to 19)
Mass. Dept. of Food & Agriculture
251 Causeway Street Suite 500
Boston, MA 02114
Web Site: www.mass.gov/agr/ |
Massachusetts State Grange
* Workshops for youth |
Garden Club Federation of Mass.
219 Washington Street
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481
(781) 237-0336
* many local garden clubs have Junior
Gardener programs |
Mass. Farm Bureau Federation
466 Chestnut Street
Ashland, MA 01721-2299
(508) 881-4766 Fax: (508)-792-7270
* Young Farmer program - ages 18-35 |
| National 4-H Council
7100 Connecticut Avenue
Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815-4999
(301) 961-2934 Fax: (301) 961-2937
Web Site: www.fourhcouncil.edu |
National FFA
P. O. Box 68960
6060 FFA Drive
Indianapolis, IN 48268-0960
(317) 802-6060 Fax: (317) 802-6061
Web Site:
www.ffa.org |
|
Information for this newsletter was taken from the resources listed above.
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Massachusetts Agriculture in the Classroom
P.O. Box 345
Seekonk, MA 02771
(508) 336-4426 Fax: (508) 336-0682
www.aginclassroom.org