Posted on July 23, 2012 at 10:36 AM by Global Reach
Dan Westphal of Bridgewater first became involved in the Adair County 4-H program when he joined the Washington Workers 4-H Club. His involvement spanned 50 years as member, parent, and volunteer. Dan received the Emerald Clover Award for 25 years of volunteer service in 2011. He was honored as the Adair County 4-H Alumni Award Winner in 1994.
Dan’s 4-H projects, dairy, swine and sheep introduced him to the challenges of farming. One year he recorded his struggles of raising sheep in his 4-H record book. Dan waited too long to band the lambs’ tails. His good vet friend didn’t charge him to dock the tails. The sheep cleaned up the orchard quickly, thus he had to build an electric fence so the lambs could graze the road ditch. After all his hard work, Dan got the mumps and couldn’t exhibit at the county fair.
After graduating from Bridgewater-Fontanelle High School, Dan attended and graduated from Northwest Missouri State University with a degree in Health and Safety. His love of agriculture drew him back to Adair County to the home farm.
Dan, an outdoors enthusiast, attended 4-H camp as a junior member. One of his 4-H demonstrations featured gun safety. Dan’s interest outdoor recreation and habitat continued. He served on the Adair County Conservation Board for 28 years.
Dan eventually assumed the role of 4-H and FFA Swine Department Superintendent. His outgoing personality, and commitment to helping kids learn and grow, along with his organizational skills make him the ideal fair superintendent. Dan takes pride in learning the names of each exhibitor and is always willing to take time to teach kids. Dan and Pat also show their support of youth as trophy donors and as Friends of 4-H Recordkeepers.
Dan’s leadership skills extend beyond 4-H as he served as a Board Member of the Adair County Pork Producers and the Farmer’s Lumber Company. He assisted with the Pee Wee Wrestling program and served on the local school board. Dan is currently a member of the Board of Directors for the local Farmers Electric Cooperative and St Patrick’s Catholic Church.
During the county fair you can find the entire family under a tree in the Courtyard enjoying a picnic lunch together. He truly represents the values of the 4-H program.
Categories: Adair
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