Hanscom youth bakes her way to 4-H ribbon

  • Published
  • By Mark Wyatt
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  A nine-year-old Hanscom youth was recently awarded a Blue Danish Ribbon for exceptional presentation skills at a state 4-H Visual Presentation competition at the Middlesex County Visuals March 17.

Ella Jackson was selected from more than 15 youth across the state for her self-created recipe of chocolate chip sugar cookies. She competed in the Food and Culinary Topics category.

Jackson presented a speech in her chosen topic area that was required to last at least three minutes. She was graded on her speaking skills, technique and proper use and presentation of visual aids.

"The judges particularly enjoyed Ella's friendly demeanor and sparkling personality," said Pamela A. LeFave, Northeast Regional 4-H Team Member program assistant. "Ella received the Blue Danish Ribbon for meeting the criteria and for her exceptional presentation skills."

While this was her first time competing, Jackson went up against other 4-H members who have honed their skills with many years of experience; some as many as eight years, continued LeFave.

When asked if she was excited about receiving the ribbon, Jackson responded with a resounding, "Yes!"

From the pool of those who are presented ribbons, two are selected as finalists from the state event.

"Although not selected this year from other Blue Danish Ribbon winners," LeFave said, "I have no doubt the future holds many such honors for this spunky nine year old."

Each presenter is judged by two trained visual presentation judges against a set criterion.

To find out more about this and other 4-H programs, contact UMASS Extension 4-H at 781-891-0650, ext. 15 or email Pamela LeFave at plefave@umext.umass.edu.