For Faraon Brown, 4-H Achievement Day is more than merely another date on the calendar — this year it’s Friday, June 9 — it’s an opportunity to display the projects that he and other members have been working diligently on throughout the year.
For several months, Brown has been training his prized steer – an 800-pound Black Angus and Simmental mix named Nyquil - on the finer points of showmanship. In that time, Nyquil has been receiving a crash course in everything from how to properly walk in a circle while led around by his master, to being halter–trained and overall, learning how to behave while in public.
“We have been working together every day in preparation for the competition. When I first started training my steer, it was very difficult,” he explained. “Nyquil can be a particularly stubborn animal who does not follow instructions well.”
But the training and patience will hopefully payoff at this year’s 4H Achievement Day at the Lakeland Agricom, where Nyquil and his young owner will see if they have what it takes to secure the coveted title of Grand Champion.
For the Browns, who have a farm in Hylo, 4-H is a family affair. Faraon’s mom, Jody Mae Brown, just happens to be chairperson of the Lac La Biche 4-H District, and Faraon’s sister, Katie-Mae, will be displaying her poultry project at this year’s Achievement Day event.
Echoing her brother’s sentiments, Katie–Mae says that 4-H Achievement Day is one of the best opportunities throughout the year for members to show off their hard work.
“It gives us the chance to present our cows and chickens and show how clean and well–behaved they are, in addition to the other projects we do,” she explained. “Our motto is ‘learn to do by doing’, and we get to learn many practical, life–building skills not everybody has the opportunity to.”
Jody Mae says 4-H Achievement Day gives members a goal to work towards. During the year, leaders continually confer with members regarding the progress of their projects.
“Simply put, if they don’t work hard and are not ready for Achievement Day, they cannot enter the show,” she affirmed. “Having a goal to work towards instills inside of these kids a sense of responsibility and how to think ahead, which is excellent training for the future. “
While there is definitely a strong agricultural component within this organization, 4-H Achievement Day is about more than just chickens and cows. Jackson Cull, who has a side gig as the club’s official reporter, is also mechanically inclined, and will be putting his automotive project on display for all to see on June 9.
“I enjoy Achievement Day because it allows us to show the community what we’ve learned and have been working hard to get done during the year,” Cull stated. “But most importantly, this day helps young people gain experiences to accomplish things in the future.”
A wide range of 4H projects will be on display during the annual showcase. The popular cattle auction is also expected to bring in community members.
