My name is Latigo Garlick, and I’m an 18-year-old senior at Matilda Torres High School in Madera, California. I’ve been a member of the Dixieland 4-H Club for nine years, and this year, I have the honor of serving as club president and one of five Madera County Ambassadors. Agriculture has always been part of my life — I grew up helping my dad with his cattle, and both my parents work in agricultural fields for the government. With that kind of background, it just felt natural for me to follow the same path.

Where It All Began

My very first 4-H experience was in PeeWee showmanship when I was just four years old. I worked with my first goat, Carlos — and while practice sometimes meant getting dragged across the yard, I never let go. That’s where my love for animals and showing began.

Over the years, I’ve participated in a wide range of projects — rabbits, beef, poultry, horses, dogs, cavies, pygmy goats, meat goats, sheep, and dairy goats — along with leadership. My favorite projects, though, are rabbits and beef. My first rabbit, a Mini Rex named Nerf, holds a special place in my heart because she was the one that started it all. As I got more serious, I decided to raise and show Palomino rabbits. At the time, there weren’t many breeders, so my parents and I drove three hours to buy my first four Pals. That decision turned into a successful breeding program that I’ve built from the ground up. It’s been rewarding to see some of my rabbits go on to win for other 4-H and FFA members, too.

As for beef, I wish I had started sooner. My first steer, BB, was outstanding — because of him, I learned what makes a quality market animal and how to properly fit one. I’ve been fortunate to show several steers and even win 4-H Champion Market Beef at the Madera District Fair twice.

Leadership and Growth

Throughout my 4-H career, I’ve held many leadership roles: Healthy Living Officer, Reporter, Vice President, and now President of Dixieland 4-H. Each role has taught me something valuable. I’ve learned that even the smallest positions play an important part in a club’s success. As president, I’ve gained skills in organization, communication, and leading productive meetings.

Being a County Ambassador has expanded those lessons even more. I’ve helped plan and facilitate countywide events — from handing out awards at our local fair to assisting at Favorite Foods Day. This role has really sharpened my public speaking skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others succeed.

One of my proudest accomplishments came when I won County Best of Show Small Animal Master Showmanship at the California State Fair. After winning master showmanship at my local fair, I went on to compete against 18 participants from all over the state. I spent countless hours studying, practicing, and preparing — and when I finally took home the Golden Bear trophy, it was a dream come true.

The Value of Family and Community

4-H runs deep in my family. Both my parents and grandparents were members, and their experiences gave me a strong foundation to build from. Their knowledge and connections have been invaluable throughout my journey.

I’ve also learned that 4-H isn’t just about showing animals — it’s about giving back. One of my favorite events is the Small Animal Livestock Expo, where I get to help younger members improve their showmanship skills and knowledge. It’s rewarding to mentor others and see their confidence grow.

Outside of 4-H, I keep busy playing varsity baseball for my school and working cattle with my dad. Baseball has taught me discipline and consistency, while cattle work has taught me patience and respect for the land and animals — lessons that tie back into agriculture and life in general.

Looking Ahead

This year, I set a goal to show every species at the Madera Fair — and I achieved it. From rabbits, cavy, dog, and poultry to beef, dairy, meat, and pygmy goats, and horses, I put in countless hours of preparation and study. I was proud to win both Large and Small Animal Master Showmanship, taking home two beautiful buckles.

Through 4-H, I’ve learned hard work, patience, humility, and respect — values that will guide me in whatever comes next. I plan to continue pursuing opportunities in agriculture while helping others find their place in it, too.

Advice for Younger Members

If I could give one piece of advice to younger members, it would be this: stick with it. Success may not happen overnight. However, build a strong foundation for your project(s) and achievements will follow. Most importantly, the lessons and friendships you build will stay with you for life. Take every opportunity — volunteer, lead, compete, and learn. You never know where it will take you.

4-H has given me more than ribbons and trophies; it’s given me confidence, leadership, and lifelong friends. It’s shaped who I am today — and for that, I’ll always be grateful.