Calving Time A Favorite Time
My name is Brittany Ricker. I have been in 4-H for six years and I’m 16 years old. I am a member of the Corner Stone 4-H Club in Southwest City.
This past year I did cooking, sewing, archery and beef cattle. In sewing I made cat hammocks for Faithful Friend Animal Advocates in Neosho. I also made tote bags for Children’s Haven in Joplin and a walker bag for my friend Pat.
In archery, I had to learn how to adjust the way I stand and look since I have some disabilities. With the help from Mr. Thacker, I can now hit the target.
I learned a lot about beef cattle in 4-H & FFA. I raise registered Dexter cattle. Working with cattle has helped me in counting and responsibility. I feed and check my animals twice a day when school is out and my parents help with morning feeding when I’m at school.
Calving time and fair time are my favorite times. I know I have to watch close in case they have problems. My last calf was breach, but everything turned out OK. I’ve had two bull calves and one heifer; I’m already planning for next year’s fair with my heifer.
— Brittany Ricker, 16 Note: Brittany is a junior at McDonald County High School who is currently in her third year as a member of McDonald County FFA. She enjoys showing her cattle at the county fair every year. She is currently enrolled in the Veterinary Science Class.
“She is learning about many types of livestock as well as what it is like to be associated with a veterinary office,” said Robert Hall, Agriculture Education Teacher at McDonald County High School.