Standing at the front of a classroom on a cold rainy day in
March 1979 was a shy little girl in pig tails.
Dear Editor:
Standing at the front of a classroom on a cold rainy day in March 1979 was a shy little girl in pig tails. Afraid to speak, she stood in front of her handwritten poster board that said “How to Groom a Horse.” She began a faltering sentence. “Good Morning, thank your for coming. Today I am going to tell you how to get your horse ready for a horse show” She didn’t win any prizes that day, but the next year won a blue ribbon and the next year a gold medal. She had learned persistence and self confidence. This same little girl raised and parted with many animals over the next 10 years at the county fair. She had learned responsibility, caring and business skills. At 15, she applied to be an All Star and was given the highest county award possible. She had learned leadership, organization and mentorship. This little girl spent summers at camp with a wonderful man who knew magic, nature and camping skills. She thought Howard knew everything. She had learned respect. At 18, she was chosen as one of three candidates to represent the entire Central Coast region (from Santa Barbara to Alameda) at the state finals in Davis as a Diamond Star Candidate. This designation is only given to four people each year who represent the state of California. She had learned to be self motivated, team building skills and made many lifelong friendships. This is what the 4-H system instilled in her.
Many people in this county know that shy little girl who stuttered her way through her first demonstration. She has lived here most of her life and now has come back as a successful business woman who prides herself on her public speaking skills, organizational skills and knowledge of the area. She is a strong supporter of the 4-H organization because it made her what she is today. Too many children don’t know the joy of sewing a simple skirt, raising a lamb, seeing brownies they baked on display at the county fair or take pride in a team project. The 4-H program is a wonderful, life-building, life-changing program that deserves to be saved.
I am that little girl, and 10 years of my life was spent in 4-H, making me the woman I am today. Strong, confident and successful. Thank you, Alex Gibson, Martha Blazer, Sergio Garcia, Dorothy Avilla and, of course, Howard Harris. I could never have done it without you. Thanks to the 4-H program, because of you I use my head for clear thinking, my heart to a greater loyalty, my hands to larger service and my health to a better living for my club, my community, my family and my world.
Jennifer Galindo,
Hollister
