Small Town News

Barka and Salfer recognized in Inaugural Dairy Showcase

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Alan Barka and Isaac Salfer of Meeker County, placed 11th and 12th overall in the inaugural year of the Minnesota Dairy Showcase. Twenty-eight youth were recognized during the event held Sunday, Aug. 30, during the Minnesota State Fair. Alan is the son of Randy and Judy Barka of Watkins. Isaac is the son of Jim and Cindy Salfer of Dassel.

Alan credits his involvement with the Dairy Project Bowl to his knowledge of the dairy project, "Participation in bowl has given me a good base for understanding all aspects of the dairy industry," says Alan. Barka is involved in the Minnesota Junior Holstein Association and is on the planning committee for the 2009 State Holstein Show. Alan is also a key component in his family's milk-hauling business.

Being active in the 4-H dairy project has helped Isaac not only promote the dairy industry, but work with younger members as well. Salfer says, "As I become one of the older 4-H members, I've been given the opportunity to lead, teach and be a positive influence on less experienced members." Isaac is a member of the Junior Brown Swiss and Minnesota Junior Holstein Association.

The Dairy Showcase was developed to recognize the involvement, dedication, and passion of Minnesota's 4-H dairy youth. Selected youth received a monetary award for their accomplishments. State Fair 4-H dairy exhibitors who received a blue or purple ribbon in their respective class were eligible to apply for the Showcase. A scorecard determined the Top 28 and consisted of an online Leadership Profile.

The Profile included the individual's project leadership, dairy-related activities, and community involvement. Bonus points were given to individuals receiving champion and reserve champion honors.

In the program's first year, generous sponsors provided just over $12,000 to be dispersed to youth. Twenty percent of funds raised were set aside for 4-H animal science education purposes. The Minnesota 4-H Dairy Showcase is a joint effort between the Minnesota Livestock Breeder Association and the Minnesota 4-H Dairy Project Development Committee.



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© 2009 Tri-County News Kimball, Minnesota. All Rights Reserved. This content, including derivations, may not be stored or distributed in any manner, disseminated, published, broadcast, rewritten or reproduced without express, written consent from DAS.

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