BIGGS, CA (MPG) – Biggs 4-H is doing amazing things during COVID with President Mason Kaelin at the helm, supported by a dedicated bunch of leaders and officers.

A few years back, Biggs 4-H club was few in numbers but now they boast a roster of over 60 members. Animal projects and showings are still a big focus, the Biggs 4-H has expanded their groups to include fishing, archery, crop management, cooking and more. Mason chalks the growth and expanded group offerings to their leadership, “It’s all thanks to Mr. Harrison (Community Club Leader) and Ms. Jonna (Phillips – Co-Community Club Leader)”.

Although many area fairs closed their doors in 2020, 4-H members were still able to find some socially distanced auctions to sell their projects. But for Mason and the Kaelin family, showing lambs is a part of life and a family tradition. Lucky for them the Jackpot circuits, which are basically mini-fairs without a carnival that focus on animal showing, continued in full-swing during the COVID lockdown. The Kaelins were forced to travel out of state to show and maintain Mason’s competitive edge.

Over the last year, Mason has traveled from Washington and Idaho, down to Arizona to participate in the jackpot shows, typically returning with a title, or two. At the time we spoke with Mason, he, and his cousin Kensley Kaelin, Biggs 4-H Reporter, were prepping 8 sheep to take to Northern Exposure, a jackpot in Corning.

Mason admits that showing sheep is probably the most demanding animal project in 4-H due to all the maintenance, plus it is a 24/7 commitment. His aunt and 4-H Leadership Advisor Amanda Kaelin says of Mason’s commitment, “It’s impressive. He does that and he maintains honor roll at school…. And he’s out every day working with them, and then most weekend showing them,” while helping other members of the group with their projects.

Mason, ever humble, would not list his accomplishments in detail, but the young man has brought home multiple wins, including cash prizes, banners, chairs and Grand Champion titles. His grandfather, Doug Kaelin says, “You can’t compete in this like anything else, unless you put the time in,” and paints a great picture of the dedication of his grandson. It is a lot of “responsibility, but reward” says Doug Kaelin, obviously proud.

The 4-H Club Community and the Kaelin family tradition of raising and showing lambs intertwine in a way that reflects the salt-of-the-earth mindset of our area and exemplifies the 4-H mantra. Amanda adds, “It just speaks to the dedication of the family…because you’re not going to get to that level with just a one and done kind of thing…. There’s competition in it but everyone’s there to see everyone else succeed.” She closes with part of the 4-H motto, “Make the Best, Better.  That’s what you guys do.”