What My County Fair Taught Me

“To make the best better”

“And your 2018 Miss Mason County Fair Queen is, contestant number five Shelby Garman!” I had finally done it, I achieved my final goal at the county fair. It may have taken me four years and three tries, but I finally became the county queen. Throughout my ten years as a 4-H member I had set and achieved many different goals but this one was by far the best! 

Photo taken by Monica Garman

The Mason County Fair has been a part of my life for as long as I could remember and has been one of the most impactful things in my life. From the ages of 8 to 18 every first Sunday of the month was spent at a 4-H meeting and every third week in July was spent at the fair. Some of my favorite memories come from both those meetings and the fair. In fact, I still have majority of the projects I completed and every single ribbon I ever won. Although the ribbons and memories are nice, what I am truly thankful for is what I learned. Being a part of the county fair and 4-H program taught me that putting in hard work and dedication doesn’t always mean you’ll win, to always lend a helping hand, and to never give up.

During my time as a 4-H member, I managed to enter projects in over 15 different categories. From crops to baking, first aid to swine, and interior design to rabbits I did as much as I could. Baking seemed to be one of my better skills since I was lucky enough to win Best Cookie a few times. However, I was never quite able to master many skills in drawing. No matter how hard I worked and how many times I restarted a project, I was never able to place in the top three. Luckily, learning that drawing wasn’t for me pushed me to try new projects and focus more on what I was good at.

Photo taken by Monica Garman

In my last few years I was lucky enough to show swine at both the county and state level. This is when I truly learned the importance of helping others. The swine barn on show day was always stressful with every showman and their family trying to prepare multiple pigs for the show. Although the goal was to beat the person in the pen next to you, there was always someone willing to help when you weren’t in the show ring. This is when I learned that helping other showman wasn’t helping the competition, it was simply about being good person. 

Photo taken by Monica Garman

Sadly, I eventually aged out and could no longer enter projects at the fair. However, I still had one more chance to be a part of the fair and that was being the Queen. As I said before, it took me three tries until I finally won the crown. The moment I heard my name called, I was extremely thankful that I chose to never give up on my goal. If I had given up after the first attempt, I would have missed out on the year of a life time. As I near the end of my year, I am very thankful for all of the opportunities the Mason County Fair and 4-H program have given me. Looking forward, I hope to remain active in as a 4-H leader and volunteer in hopes of inspiring other young 4-H members to never give up, always help others, and that it’s okay to not win. The county fair and 4-H programs truly take the best in someone and make them better!

About the Author

My name is Shelby Garman and I am currently studying Agribusiness at Western Illinois University. My hometown of Manito, Illinois is where my family owns a small farm. Growing up I was heavily involved in agriculture through both FFA and 4-H. I hope to continue my involvement while interning with GROWMARK this summer. This summer I will also be crowning the 2019 Miss Mason County Fair Queen at the Mason County Fair July 22-26. Thank you for reading my post and I hope you all enjoy County Fair Season.

Photo taken by Ashely Brown of
Ashely Brown Designs and Photography

Let’s Put Consumer Trust Back on the Kitchen Table

What’s the buzz? With so many new buzzwords it is hard for consumers to know the truth about what they are consuming and what farmers are producing. 

Being born and raised on a farm I know what happens when producing livestock and crops. I have been educated about what happens from farm to fork, the struggles, the tears, and even the joy that comes with being a farmer. I also know for a fact that if someone offered me a steak I wouldn’t think twice about cutting into it, seeing a nice pink juicy center, and taking a mouth watering bite (I mean really? Who would turn down a free steak?!). However, I know there are some people who have other thoughts or concerns when thinking about eating a steak. 

As consumers are moving into more urban areas they are now becoming generations removed from the farm. This means that typical farming practices that use to be common knowledge isn’t so common now. Consumers can get easily confused when talking about confinement operations or AI breeding cattle. We might think this is common knowledge that everyone should know, but honestly have we done a good job of explaining these practices

We cannot stop the miscommunication or lack of understanding if we as producers do not communicate and explain. Confusion leads to a lack of consumer trust, but with a little clarity and explanation things could get better. As producers let’s not get short tempered, or easily aggravated (if we are being honest, I know I can lose my patience when someone says GMOs are harmful for human consumption). Instead lets be better advocators, speak affectively, LISTEN, and explain better so consumer trust can be a thing of the past. 

Many consumers might also think that animals have been harmed, mistreated, or given antibiotics. This misconception about what happens in the agriculture industry is a major reason why we lack consumer trust. Big companies are targeting people and getting them to believe that there are antibiotics in meat by labeling packages or brands “antibiotic free meat,” when they have been free of antibiotics this entire time. The buzzwords that they use is just a targeted strategy on getting consumers to buy their product. 

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When consumers see advertisements or labels with these buzzwords they begin to question the agriculture industry, and question whether or not the food they are consuming is safe.

As agriculturalist we need to see this problem and confront it. We can do this buy making sure we are open to hearing other peoples opinions, speaking clearly on what we are doing as an industry, and offering our farms to be toured so consumers can see first hand what production agriculture is like. If we do this we can put consumer trust back on the kitchen table.

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Hi I’m Maggie Torrance. I was born and raised on a farm outside a little small town town. Being raised on a farm I learned a lot about agriculture by working with my dad and grandpa. Late night tractor rides, dinner in the field, and working with livestock are just a few of my favorite childhood memories. These memories turned into a passion for agriculture which is why I am now attending WIU to major in Ag Business. I hope to continue working in the agriculture industry to continue my true passion. Thank you for reading my blog!

Sigma Alpha: A Professional Agricultural Sorority

“I’m not the sorority type” is one of the most common phrases I hear from the girls I have met through Sigma Alpha. I had this thought myself, prior to originally joining this group of women at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, during the spring of my junior year. I didn’t want to live in a house with a large group of girls, or pay a lot of money to be a part of something. I also new the activities that are common for social sororities to take part in were not for me. Luckily, Sigma Alpha opened their arms to me, and they can do the same for you. Sigma Alpha provides sisterhood among a group of girls, all while being able to go home to your own apartment or dorm after an event is over. Above all, Sigma Alpha strives to develop its members into well-rounded women, which is more beneficial to girls in the long run.

Pumpkin carving social with one of our brother fraternities; AGS.

College is a time to have fun, and figure out who you are. It is also a crucial time to begin molding who you want to be in your future. After coasting along for a little while, I realized I needed to find an organization to be a part of, to continue bettering myself. Since then, I have found that Sigma Alpha offers the perfect balance between social activities and professional opportunities. While the conferences offered are wonderful networking opportunities, members don’t even need to travel to reap the benefits of our activities on campus. Skills like running a meeting using parliamentary procedure and knowing how to hold an officer position are invaluable to have when looking for a career after college.

As a Sigma Alpha, you can expect to have weekly meetings typically three weeks out of the month, and at least one gathering dedicated to sisterhood among the members. This can include anything from a craft night to line dancing. We also gather for dinner once a semester with either AGR or AGS; our brother fraternities. Throughout all of our events, we strive to uplift the four pillars of Sigma Alpha: scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship.

I do realize that the term “broke college student” is no joke, but I am here to tell you that even a “broke college student” like myself can easily afford being a part of Sigma Alpha. Not only are our dues hundreds of dollars cheaper than those of other sororities; you will be amazed at what you get for your money. Everything from t-shirts and meals to conferences and trips are covered by the small amount you pay each semester. If we are speaking in terms of investments, giving a little bit of money and time to Sigma Alpha is a very sound investment for your college experience and your future.

I wish to leave you with one final thought, that is applicable to life as a whole; not just Sigma Alpha: step out of your comfort zone. Regardless if your goal after college is to become a CEO or go back to the farm, step out of your comfort zone. There are endless opportunities for you; choose to surround yourself with people who want to help you find them.

About The Author:

My name is Alyssa Gustus, and I am from Orion, IL. I received my Associate degree at Black Hawk East, and will be receiving my Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree from WIU in May of 2019. I am looking forward to continuing to pursue my passion for agriculture upon graduation. Thank you for taking a few minutes to read my blog. If you’d like more information about Sigma Alpha, visit our Facebook page at Western Illinois University Sigma Alpha.

Stepping into a New Role on the Family Farm

“Agriculture is the most healthful, most useful and most noble employment of man.” – George Washington

In my family there are four girls and one boy, which was a blessing and a curse for my dad; he had five built- in farm hands. When we were younger, we got to enjoy the farm life, bottle feed the calves, took naps in the passenger seat of the semi, or stole all of grandpas snacks in his lunch pail. Our dad tried to always come home and eat supper as a family, or mom would pack us all up, take supper, and go say goodnight to him in the field. As we grew up, we each saw the other side of the farm.

Over the years, we helped when dad needed, or at least we tried to help and most times, were probably just in the way. We would follow him around, watch him operate machinery, and wave our hands as we stood in the cow lot to help move cattle. My brother was always out helping move equipment or doing chores, while my sisters and I helped mom or watched dad from the window. Through high school, my brother worked for a local cattle ranch so I stepped in and tried to help dad as much as possible with the cattle, but my brother was always there for harvest.

Now that most of us kids are grown and in college or in the workforce, dad doesn’t have his five farmhands always home. Being close to home, I was able to go home and learn about the crop side of our farming operation this past harvest. I took a crash course (not literally) in tractor driving and operating 101 and was sent on my own. Everyday after class I would go home, jump in the grain cart and make the circles around the field and to the bin. I also got to experience driving dads newer John Deere tractor and venturing out with the disk. I can honestly say, dad and I had plenty of laughs and tons of memories from my first harvest helping.

The experience, memories, and lessons I have gained growing up on our family farm will last me a lifetime; and I am sure this won’t be my only harvest in a grain cart. My parents have shown all of their kids the many different sides of having a farm with crops and livestock, and we are all grateful for the hard work, lessons, and ideals we have been taught.

In today’s society, there are over 969,672 female farmers in a predominately male field. This isn’t counting the many farm wives that help their husbands with chores, deliver meals to the fields, or drive a tractor during harvest. Women are becoming more and more involved and making a bigger impact on the agriculture industry that ever before. I am proud to be one of those women impacting the agriculture industry.

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Taken by: Sarah Twidwell

My name is Erin Lascelles and I am from Ipava, Illinois. I am a senior at Western Illinois University and plan to graduate in May with a degree in Agriculture Business. I grew up on a small family farm with crops and cattle. After graduation, I plan to find a career in Ag Marketing or Communications. Thanks for listening to my story!

How I Found Exotic Veterinary Medicine

Animals have always been an important part of my life. I have personally cared for fifteen animal species since the age of eight. My interest for veterinary medicine sparked when I was seven years old and my childhood dog fell ill. I was eager to understand what caused his illness, how it would be treated, and if it could have been prevented. The interest continued to build when I entered 4-H with my horse, rabbit, and goat. As medical complications arose with the different animals, I watched the veterinarian in amazement, continually asking questions to learn more. I was able to watch the farrier shoe horses, and the veterinarian perform checkups and emergency procedures. As I became aware of the duties and responsibilities of a veterinarian, I knew that I wanted to be one when I grew up. 

            During junior high school, I spent three summers volunteering at Central Illinois Riding Therapy (C.I.R.T.). My responsibilities included caring for the horses by cleaning stalls, providing feed with individually specialized nutrients, and reporting any signs of poor health. In addition, I aided riders with physical and/or mental disabilities and their families interact with the horses for therapy lessons. Through this experience, my appreciation for animals and the impact they can have on people grew.   

           Up to now, all I knew about were small companion animals and horses. I decided to branch out and learn more about different species. The most influential experience in my life was through the ZooTeen Volunteer Program at the Peoria Zoo in Peoria Illinois. During this experience I discovered my passion for exotic animals. I also found that I enjoyed sharing information, regarding those animals, with the public. I educated the public through children’s camps, enrichment programs, and public speaking at exhibits. During exhibit education, I was able to use artifacts

From: Peoria Zoo

such as bones, pictures, and plants from natural habitats to educate visitors. I spent most of my time at the giraffe exhibit where I aided the public in feedings as well as educating them on giraffe biology and behavior. After spending a majority of my summer in the Africa exhibit, I decided to pursue a veterinary degree specializing in large exotic animals.

           Western Illinois University (WIU), has provided me with ample opportunity to learn and grow as a student pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. Hands on animal science classes, artificial insemination certification classes, and student clubs such as the equestrian club have all provided me knowledge and experience in my future career. During my sophomore year, I decided to take part in a study abroad trip to Costa Rica. The trip was planned through the agriculture department at WIU, tailoring the trip toward the interest of the agriculture students participating. Three days out of the week, there was a planned excursion to view the local wildlife; however, we encountered the wildlife every day. This daily experience with the wildlife solidified my career goals.

           In my junior year of college, I have been able to shadow Dr. Karen Blakely and Dr. Tonya Esther at All Pets Veterinary Clinic of Macomb Illinois. While this is a small companion animal veterinary clinic, exotic animals are also welcome. Exotic animals that I have encountered at All Pets include, snakes, hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, and birds. I have gained hands-on experience with basic techniques such as intubation, drawing blood for testing, and surgery preparation. I observe surgeries including routine spays/neuters, exploratory surgeries to remove intestinal blockages and large tumors, endoscopies, dental procedures and the use of laser surgery techniques. I have gained valuable insight during my time at All Pets Veterinary Clinic into the day-to-day workings of a county run veterinary clinic, including conducting appointments, communicating with clients, performing surgeries and x-rays, and the sensitivity of euthanasia of companion animals.

           Steve Irwin once said, “My job, my mission, the reason I’ve been put onto this planet, is to save wildlife” My life, as far as I can remember, has revolved around animals. My grandfather continuously reminds me that I told him a secret when I was 5 saying, “I want to work with animals.” The series of events that unfolded throughout my life, have directed me toward large exotic veterinary medicine. Every year that I become one step closer to my dream career, the more I know that this is my mission, my purpose in life. Currently I plan to finish my degree, at a school yet to be determined, and move to Africa where I can work on a wildlife reserve for exotic animals that are being threatened with extinction such as giraffes, rhinos, and elephants.

About the author

My name is Gabrielle Cairncross and I’m from East Peoria Illinois. I am a junior at Western Illinois University majoring in animal science with a dual minor in chemistry and zoology. I currently hold office as the philanthropy chair for the WIU chapter Sigma Alpha and snare captain for the WIU Marching Leathernecks, as well as being an active member of the WIU Equestrian Club. Thank you for reading my blog, I hope you enjoyed my story.

Farm Family Fun For All

Every September, people come from across Illinois to enjoy Williamsfield’s Ag Day Festival, a farm themed family event for all ages. Did I mention it’s also free? There’s no admission costs, just food! Ag Day takes place on the Sunday after Labor Day and is coming up on it’s seventh year this September. This great event is all possible thanks to our local FFA chapter, 4H chapter, and FFA Alumni.

Ag Day Festival is for all ages of kids and adults. For the little ones there is corn and soybean sandboxes, a straw scramble, train wagon rides, and a battery powered car chore course, a combine bounce house, and petting zoo. For those a little older there’s pedal tractors and a mini ATV course. Adults can join in on the fun as well with a backhoe rodeo, antique tractor parade, and equipment displays. Along with all of that, there’s also a morning church service, pancake breakfast, pie contest, guess the weight contest, talks and demos by locals, and a photo contest. We’ve even had Cow Pie Bingo! Activities are always changing so you never know what you may see at Ag Day.

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In 2018 our big project was to “raise the barn”, a farm themed playground set that was being put up in our local park where Ag Day is held. Paid for by donations and built by volunteers, we successfully raised the barn and had our grand opening at Ag Day last year. This playground was a fantastic addition to our park and has brought people from surrounding communities to enjoy all summer. This playground has been great for our community and kids. It now provides a centerpiece for Ag Day and something for our community to be proud of.

As an active FFA Alumni member, Ag Day Festival has really become something I look forward to helping with each year. It pretty much takes year round planning and we have fantastic help every year from decorating and set up to volunteering and just organizing the whole event. It’s grown tremendously in the past six years and I can’t wait to see what this year will bring. Williamsfield is a very small town, only about 600 people, so for us to hold an event the size of Ag Day is pretty impressive. It’s something I plan on always being apart of, even after college.

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So if you’re looking for something to do, come on out Sunday, September 8, 2019 to the Doubet-Benjamin Park in Williamsfield, Illinois for a day filled with farm themed family fun. Bring the whole family and enjoy the day out to the biggest event in town. It’s fun and involves agriculture so what more can you ask for!

My name is Haley Smith and I’m from Williamsfield, IL. I went to Black Hawk East for 2 years and received my Associate’s in Science and I’m now an Agriculture Education major at Western Illinois University. My passion is in the agriculture industry and I cannot wait to one day share that with my students. Thank you for reading my blog!

My Leatherneck Families

Since the day I was born, I have had purple and gold running through my veins. I am very proud to say that I am a third generation Leatherneck, which is something that my family takes a great deal of pride in.  

My late grandfather, Raymond Collins, received his MBA from Western in the spring of 1989. My father, Darren Shupe, graduated from WIU in the spring of 1991 with an Agriculture Science Degree and a minor in Animal Science. While at Western he met my mother, a Macomb native, Emily Collins- Shupe. My mother graduated in the spring of 1994, with a degree in Dietetics. Years later, my mother had the privilege to come back to Western and become a professor in the Dietetics Program.  

With that being said, it’s pretty obvious that I have been familiar with the WIU campus for as long as I can remember. Whether it was coming back for Homecoming in the fall, attending various events my mom helped put on, the Ag Mech show in the spring, or even attending the famous Smokin’ Hog Philanthropy at the AGR house, I practically grew up making weekend trips to Macomb. Over the years I have met many of my mother’s students and have heard my fair share of stories from my father’s fellow Alpha Gamma Rho brothers about “back in the day.” 

Western Illinois University has always been my home away from home. It is obvious that when it came time to start looking at colleges, I didn’t once think about visiting any other universities. I attended one campus tour here at Western, which wasn’t very informational for me considering I grew up with a passion for Western and visited campus regularly.  

The event that had the biggest impact on helping me choose my path to college was attending an Agriculture Open House here at Western my sophomore year of high school. The student involvement, family atmosphere, and welcoming faculty is what impressed me. It was after attending Open House that I found my own path at Western. My parents both shared their memories and experiences with me. Although, after graduating high school, I knew that it was time to find my own path, it was time to write my own story. 

I started that story when I completed my first day of college here at WIU in the fall of 2016. On that day I became a WIU Aggie. I was embraced with open arms to the program and I became very involved in many clubs and organizations within The School of Agriculture. Over the past three years I have found my second family here as an Aggie and have made lifelong friends. I now know what my dad was talking about when he would talk about his “family” here at Western, because I now have the same thing 29 years later. 

No matter what your story has been up until now, it’s never too late to start a new one. Come to the Agriculture Open House, sponsored by West Central FS, on March 22^ndand find your second “family” here as a WIU Aggie. You will have a chance to meet current students, check out the 17 clubs and organizations within the School of Agriculture, ask questions to a student panel, tour the campus/university farm, meet with current faculty, and you will even get a free lunch out of the day! If you are looking for a home away from home, make sure you plan to attend! 

Register for The WIU Agriculture Open House here: http://www.wiu.edu/cbt/agriculture/openhouse.php

My name is Anna Shupe; I am currently a junior at Western Illinois university. I am expected to graduate in May of 2020, with a degree in Agriculture Education, and a minor in Animal Science. I grew up on a grain and livestock farm outside of Lima, Illinois. That is where my passion for Agriculture started, and I am now pursuing a dream of mine, to become a High School Agriculture Teacher and FFA Advisor. Thank you for taking time out of your day to read my blog, I hope you enjoyed it.