Love of animals and fun drew 4-H’er into spotlight

By LORI COPE | East Texas Edition

Jamie Curtis admits the first time she had to give a demonstration, she was “scared to death.” But with lots of practice behind her, and pep talks from others, she did it! (and you can to!) -- Courtesy photo

August 11, 2005 - It was a steer named Petey, some chickens, and a desire to be a veterinarian or rancher that started Jamie Curtis on her road to achievements.

Growing up, Jamie had heard many stories about the fun her mom had while in 4-H.

So at age 8, Jamie decided she would “show,” or exhibit, some animals. At her first county show competition, she showed a steer named Petey (named after the dog on Little Rascals because he had a black ring around one eye), and a pen of chickens.

“My mother was in 4-H and talked about how much fun she had, and the lifelong friends she made,” Jamie shared. “Plus, I have always loved being around animals.”

Getting involved in 4-H gave Jamie plenty of chances to learn new things, and learn to go through with something even if you’re scared. “When I gave my first Method Demonstration in 4-H, I was scared to death,” Jamie recalled. “I was only 9-years-old. I kept practicing and practicing.” She was going to demonstrate, in front of many people, how to “make a nutritional snack — peanut butter balls.”

When it was time for the demonstration, “all of the older 4-H’ers gave me a pep talk. I placed fourth, and I made a lot of mistakes,” she said.

Jamie continued doing things in 4-H, and she also got involved in the Texas Junior Charolais Association, and in her school’s theater group.

“4-H and Theater have helped me overcome my fear of public speaking, being on stage, being a leader, and even my fear of meeting new people,” Jamie added. “Being involved in organizations like 4-H, theater, and the Texas Junior Charolais Association has given me a sense of accomplishment.”

Jamie, now 17, believes kids should get involved in some organization, club, sport, group, ... just get in there and do something y ou enjoy, she says. “There is nothing to be afraid of. Many times, others in the group will introduce them to other members. ... That’s what I would do, and I’d tell them how much fun we have.”

Today, Jamie is very active in 4-H, exhibiting livestock, competing with various projects, and helping with the Foster Children Christmas Party and Easter Egg Hunt. She has won the 4-H Gold Star award, and has served as president of the Red River 4-H Club (in Bowie County), and as president of the county 4-H council. She’s been in theater for four years at Pleasant Grove High School, and this year will perform in the One Act Play. Through Texas Junior Charolais Association, she shows cattle all over Texas and travels to national shows. This year she is serving as the association’s president.