Our Opinion: 4-H, FFA youth exhibit commitment

As the Jaycees Cole County Fair continues this week, we marvel at the commitment demonstrated by 4-H and FFA youth.

The livestock shows and contests call on these youngsters to exhibit caring and caution, camaraderie and competition.

The caring is evident as the members feed, clean and groom their livestock, including cattle, goats, sheep, swine, poultry and rabbits.

Raising and nurturing these animals doesn't occur on a human timetable; it requires rising early and, at times, staying up late. During fair week, these young people have been known to sleep in the barns while tending their livestock.

Caution also is necessary, particularly for the youth who exhibit cattle, which may weigh between 400-600 pounds. Hannah Junkans, a 14-year-old who is exhibiting heifers, said: "After a while, they realize I won't hurt them, but I also have to remember they could still hurt me."

Although 4-H and FFA members compete for ribbons, they also enjoy a camaraderie that comes with spending time together preparing for shows and contests.

Because many of the shows occur during summer, some exhibitors characterize fair week as a "mini-vacation" before classes resume

"It's hard to see all my friends from the shows during the school year," said Hannah's older sister, 17-year-old Sarah Junkans.

Anne Brennecke, a mother of three 4-H members, spoke for many parents when she said: "I always feel so proud of my kids and happy to seek their work pay off. It's also great to see the emotions on their face and the sentimental feelings" toward their livestock.

County fairs trace their origins to agrarian life, which required people to be hard working, compassionate, reliable and responsible. The young people who carry on that tradition also bring with them an abundance of character.

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