A summer of change: 4-H members focus on what matters most

A summer of change: 4-H members focus on what matters most

“One day, you’re going to age out and close your show box for the last time. I promise you, it’s not “the banners or shows you’ll miss. It’s doing chores with your dad.”

Jenna Wheeler, Morgan County 4-H

In May, Jenna Wheeler and her family had a big decision to make. With a barn full of show pigs and goats bound for the summer showring, and a cascade of cancellations due to the coronavirus pandemic, what should the family do?

Raising livestock is expensive, but some of those expenses are offset by prize money and the sale of livestock after the show season. With the immediate future in doubt, the teen told her story on social media.

"My dad looked at me, with tears in his eyes, and said, 'I'll feed these pigs for as long as I need if it means I get to go to the barn and do chores every night with my kids.'"

This same discussion played out in barns across the state as the lingering effects of the health crisis wore on. Though many expressed disappointment when 4-H shows transitioned to an online format, Jenna took the long view.

"One day, you're going to age out and close your show box for the last time. I promise you, it's not the banners or shows you'll miss. It's doing chores with your dad."

The 2020 4-H Judging Experience

Former Extension staff, 4-H alum, and longtime judge Jeannea Shier judged clothing at six virtual county shows and the 4-H state fair this year.

"Though I couldn’t talk to the exhibitor, couldn’t see each seam of their garment, I did notice these things: kids learned valuable life skills. Kids smiled in the photos because they knew they had accomplished something important. They did their best; I did my best. And, next year, we will all make the best better again as we always have!"

Lee Rincker is a veteran livestock judge from Shelby County. "While I do not believe virtual shows replace an in-person event, given the circumstances, it gave exhibitors a goal to work toward and allowed them to showcase their work. From my perspective, I like that an exhibitor can replay their video and read the judge's comments. It is a little bit like watching game film."

by Judy Mae Bingman