Each fall, members of South Carolina 4-H and FFA round up their livestock and bring them to the State Fairgrounds in Columbia to compete for prizes and recognition.
4-H Day at the Fair consists of several competitions. Lessons learned from these events help prepare participants for life. The 4-H Poultry and Rabbit Showmanship competition is one example.
Delanee Todd, a 4-H member at Dixie High School in Due West, brought her Ayam Cemani hen to compete in this contest. Competing can be challenging.
“You have to be persistent,” said Todd, who placed third. “You can’t give up, ever.”
Her parents, Walter and Denise Todd, said participating in 4-H programs such as the Pullet Chain has been a positive experience for their daughter. Pullet Chain participants receive chicks to raise and sell, with proceeds supporting the following year’s program.
“She’s learned about being responsible,” Walter Todd said. “She’s learned how to care for things and she’s learned how to let go when the time comes.”
“She’s also learned about leadership and working with other people,” Denise Todd said. “Being in 4-H has taught her skills she will use throughout her life.”
The Ayam Cemani is an all-black chicken breed from Indonesia. The Todds started raising the birds after Walter Todd saw one and became intrigued. They now have 13.
“They’re a novelty bird, so we mostly keep them for enjoyment,” Walter Todd said. “We sell a few or give a few to friends. But mostly, we just enjoy them.”
Source : clemson.edu