LOVELOCK - Last weekend Pershing County held its 69th annual 4-H and FFA Livestock Show and Sale. As I sat and watched the young people exhibiting their livestock projects that they have worked with throughout the year, with the help of their parents, advisors and fellow participants, it brought back many enjoyable memories for me.
Many people in the area may still not understand what the 4-H Youth Development Program is all about. In today's society, many of these youth agricultural-related activities are critically examined by organizations not in favor of many agricultural practices. Here is an example from the PETAKids.com website; "Many programs offered by 4-H and Future Farmers of America (FFA) encourage kids to lovingly raise and care for baby pigs, cows, and other animals - then sell them at auction to be killed and turned into hot dogs, hamburgers, and other meat. 4-H's can save lives honor animals by adopting a humane, meat-free diet and help them by handing out information to others about vegetarianism."
4-H and FFA is more than just raising a livestock project to be sold at an auction. Youth development is the reason for The University of Nevada Cooperative Extension (UNCE) 4-H Program. Both the Nevada 4-H mission statement and the 4-H Pledge illustrate that youth development is the central focus of Nevada 4-H. The mission of the 4-H Youth Development program is to enable youth to reach their fullest potential as capable, competent, caring and contributing citizens. The 4-H Pledge highlights the development of the head, heart, hands and health.
Development of Head for Clearer Thinking . . . Youth practice skills to develop competent citizens. They acquire skills and knowledge in subject matter areas such as agriculture, family and consumer science, science and technology. They develop leadership skills and fulfill leadership roles. They explore and evaluate career and job opportunities.
Development of Heart for Greater Loyalty . . . Youth practice skills to develop caring citizens, such as; Learning to respect and get along with people, developing volunteers as individuals and leaders for 4-H and the community and participating in community affairs.
Development of Hands for Larger Service . . . Youth practices skills to develop contributing citizens. They learn the value of community service. They learn communication and teamwork skills. They take pride in workmanship, practicing "good work ethic."
Development of Health for Better Living . . . Youth practice skills to develop capable citizens. 4-H's develop a positive self-image. They use leisure time productively and develop and practice responsible environmental skills.
For . . . The betterment of clubs, communities, the country, and the world.
I would like to congratulate all of the young people and their parents that participated in the livestock show. They all did an excellent job of not only exhibiting their animals, but also, exhibiting outstanding sportsmanship and courtesy throughout the show.
I would also like to thank all of the buyers that purchased livestock and baked goods. Without their generous support of this local youth program the event would not be possible.
It would be beneficial for everyone, not just youth, to adopt the 4-H motto, "To Make the Best Better." It infers that each person will do the "best" that he or she possibly can in whatever is attempted, and then try to improve the next time to make it even "better."
If you would like more information about the UNCE 4-H Youth Development Program, contact Marianne Papa at (775) 272-2923.
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