10-year-old Dutchess Co. 4-H beekeeper shines as a community educator

AMENIA, N.Y. — There is a reason that Dutchess County 4-H attaches such importance to its’ Public Speaking Program. It is to provide young people such as Tavin Pennock with the education and support to develop outstanding presentation skills which empower them to excel in school, college, the workplace and life in general.

Tavin first met Millbrook Garden Club (MGC) members at the 4-H A-Fair to Remember gala fundraiser. They were so impressed with his attitude, and his passion and knowledge about bees and the environment, that they asked him to be the formal guest speaker at one of their club meetings. On Monday 15^th August, Tavin arrived at the beautiful Wethersfield Estate (Amenia, NY) where he gave an in-depth talk on beekeeping and the role bees play as pollinators. Approximately 60 members (on average 5 times his age!) listened intently to his captivating presentation.

Having arranged his props, Tavin Pennock takes the mic and commands the attention of his audience. (Courtesy Photo)

“Tavin was extraordinary at our garden club meeting today! He impressed everyone with his knowledge of beekeeping. He explained what equipment is needed, from the smoker to how to mark a queen and from mite inspection to honey extraction. He showed us his beekeeping suit and a special brush to whisk bees off the frames. He is so poised”. – Lea Cornell: Chair of the MGC Conservation and Club History Committees; Past President and former beekeeper.

Tavin has already been asked to speak at other groups, and to be a junior educator for kids in the Wethersfield Wilderness Club. Millbrook Garden Club is a wonderful partner to the 4-H program, supporting us in many ways. It is connections to our community such as this which allow the Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County 4-H program to help our youth thrive.

–Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County