Wayne County fair is back: Here's what to see in the 4-H building and beyond
It’s that time of year again when the fairgrounds are buzzing with activity. As a person who has grown up in the 4-H system, I look forward to the fair each year as a time to not only reconnect with friends but as a time to see all the great projects that Wayne County youths have worked hard on all year.
The project booths in the 4-H Building represent young people expanding on their skills and talents. Photography, nutrition, wood working, clothing construction, gardening and many additional topics are studied and displayed for us to enjoy. Plan to stop by the booths in the Junior Fair Building to see a variety of activities that the youth have participated in during the year like camps, Food and Fashion Board, Junior Fair Board, Cloverbud activities and many more.
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I commend the volunteers who stand behind each member. Parents, advisors, and other family members join to “Make the Best Better” as the 4-H motto goes. If you get to watch the livestock shows, you will see all the time and effort that has been put forth throughout the year. Learning life skills like responsibility, accountability, dedication, and hard work are character traits that speak volumes during future job interviews. I’ve heard employers say “I look to see if the applicant has FFA or 4-H experience or was raised on a farm” indicating these skills are sought after in a work environment.
The theme “4-H grows here” or “I got my start in 4-H” speaks for itself when previous members return to reminisce on their previous activities. Many of them will say, I wouldn’t be where I am today without my 4-H or FFA background. Workforce development begins early in the 4-H career and advances each year so that by the time they are ready to interview for a scholarship or a job, most are comfortable and confident to ably express their skills and accomplishments.
Don’t forget to come by the Grange Rotunda (the only round building on the fairgrounds) to see the antiques display, quilts of valor, and the demonstrations that will be given Monday through Thursday (check out our website for a full listing at wayne.osu.edu). These free presentations have been in place for more than 30 years to offer great information for you and your family. A wide variety of experts will cover topics ranging from growing herbs and cone flowers, to quilting, taking care of your heart, and genealogy. The lineup also includes the United Titanium Bug Zoo on the Ohio State University Wooster campus and Wilderness Center in Wilmot. Pick up a schedule in the Grange Rotunda, Senior Fair Office or Buss Hall during the fair.
Have a great week and I hope to see you at the fair!
Melinda Hill is an OSU Extension Family & Consumer Sciences Educator and may be reached at 330-264-8722 or hill.14@osu.eduCFAES provides research and related educational programs to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis. For more information, visit cfaesdiversity.osu.edu.
This article originally appeared on The Daily Record: Wayne County Fair packed with the best from local 4-Hers
