We all have a purpose. Be it person or poultry, we can make a difference in the place we live. Some move quietly behind the scenes, others choose a more public approach. I, Gertrude McCluck, have accepted the challenge to be the front man (rather chicken).

Prior to this day I had the good fortunate to meet students at Findlay High School, Donnell Middle School, residents at Birchaven Retirement Community, St. Andrews United Methodist Church, Hancock County Kids Fest, North Baltimore Library Fair, Northwest Ohio Consortium of Gifted Coordinators, and the Hancock County Cloverbuds. It is my personal mission to wipe out misunderstandings and foster strong relationships between people and their animals, especially chickens. I do not take my duty lightly and work daily to encourage poultry as a family hobby.

I'd like to say I'm a homebody. I'd like to say that I only attend events I see my friends and extended family at (the Hancock County Fair, Ohio State Fair, Ohio National, and Southern Ohio Poultry Show). I'd like to tell you that I only go where people refer to me by my proper name---but this day was different. Before I could think I was thrust into the confines of my travel coach (pet carrier) and whisked off to another adventure.

Boy was it noisy! I could hear chattering, chairs being moved about, and squeals of anticipation. Out on the table I came to help at-risk city students gain a clearer understanding of the world outside their own backyards. They didn't know that you could eat a brown or blue egg or that I wouldn't peck their eye out or that we aren't all made for eating or even that we also make great pets. Some of the children had recognized me from the time I spent at the "Facts and Feathers" station at the county fair. It sure was fun to see people of all ages get a close up in the poultry department. The kids were surprised and eager to see and learn about something they weren't familiar with. I taught them facts about embryology, care, and proper treatment. Most importantly, I gave them a once in a lifetime opportunity to see, touch, and experience first-hand the wonder of living agriculture.

These elementary students were delighted and as I boarded my transport coach I could hear their excitement to share with others the awesome world of poultry. After all, they were now "experts," probably more so than anyone in their own families. You know, I have learned over time that if you give people the proper knowledge and offer them a new experience they eventually become fabulous ambassadors for the cause. My goal is to expose people, especially children, and teach them something along the way. This particular afternoon nearly fifty children saw the light, mission accomplished.

Kids saw, learned, touched, and experienced, and I know they will pay it forward.

Another job well done by Gertrude McCluck, Poultry Ambassador to the World.