Local 4-Hers Have Wins at Big E
Representing Vermont in dairy events at Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Mass., were: Front row (left to right): Natalie Michaud, Greensboro; Morgan Michaud, East Hardwick; Rose Tarbell, Middletown Springs; Gabriel Michaud, East Hardwick. Middle row (sitting): Elise Sanders, West Topsham; Emma Seward, East Wallingford; Emma Deering, Middlebury; Liviya Russo, Lunenburg; Erica Goodhue, Fairfield; Karissa Livingston, New Haven. Back row (standing): Sadie Ellner, Morristown (behind sign); Caleb Sprague, East Wallingford; Natalie Hill, Greensboro; Madalyn Perry, East Montpelier; Patty Bruce, Wallingford; Brailey Livingston, New Haven; Aubrey Maley, Irasburg; Lorryn Trujillo, North Clarendon.
Burlington – Vermont 4-H dairy members did the state proud, competing against 4-Hers from throughout New England in several 4-H dairy events at Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Mass.
All 4-H dairy exhibitors, including those showing cattle or competing in contests, were required to take a written general knowledge test, which quizzed them on dairy topics ranging from breeds, dairy nutrition and feeds to herd health, dairy products and marketing, among other dairy topics.
The test, which took place on Sept. 15, was especially important to the quiz bowl team as it decides the ranking going into the quiz bowl contest. East Hardwick 4-Her Gabriel Michaud finished in tenth place, giving Vermont five top placings in this age group for the written exam.
Fifteen of Vermont’s top 4-H dairy members represented the state at the Eastern States Exposition 4-H dairy show, capturing several showmanship and breed championships.
Several fitting and showmanship classes for juniors (ages 12 to 14) and seniors (ages 15 to 18) were held to accommodate the large number of exhibitors. Placements were based on how well the 4-Hers presented and handled their animals in the show ring.
Natalie Michaud, Greensboro, was named the Junior Fitting and Show Champion.
Local 4-Hers placed as follows in their respective fitting and showing classes:
Seniors: Group A: Gabriel Michaud, East Hardwick (second); Juniors: Group C: Morgan Michaud, East Hardwick (seventh); Group D: Natalie Michaud, Greensboro (first).
The 4-Hers also competed in conformation classes, which are arranged according to the breed and age of the animal. The judges evaluate the body condition and appearance of the animal when deciding how to place each animal.
Results were, Holstein: Winter calf: Gabriel Michaud, East Hardwick (first); Natalie Michaud, Greensboro (fifth); Fall calf: Morgan Michaud, East Hardwick (third).
4-H teen Natalie Hill, Greensboro, assisted with the show.
Several Vermont 4-H club members had an opportunity to share what they’ve learned through 4-H with visitors to Eastern States Exposition. On Sept. 18 and 19, they performed on stage as well as presented action exhibits and talks at the New England Center throughout the day. In addition, three posters and three photos, voted the People’s Choice Awards at 4-H State Day in May, were on display in the center, where they will remain until the end of the expo’s 17-day run in October.
Chosen to represent Vermont were, Action Exhibits: Four Fascinating Steps to Felting (Caspian Critters 4-H Club: Natalie and Warren Hill, Greensboro; Aubrey Maley, Irasburg; Emma Rowell, Greensboro Bend); Public Speaking: Amalie Pratt, Wolcott (Sports with Dogs).
