Iowa 4-H Alumni & Friends

7/26/13 Grundy County Fair , though in it's last full day of delivery, proved to be lively and interesting.  Like many county fairs, they had a competition amongst clubs decorating with a specific item. In this case, it was tires. A hopscotch field and tractor were among favorites. Of course, a highlight for the Iowa 4-H Foundation was to be present for the Drew Scott Memorial Scholarship (surprise) presentation and Drew Scott Memorial Open Class sheep show. Lee, Janet and Mallory Scott couldn't have been more welcoming and hospitable. This was the 5th year for the award, so they were having a special pre-show dinner to thank donors and sponsors. I even got to enjoy the wonderful home-prepared meal and adorable cake. When served a shredded BBQ meat, I asked "surely this is mutton, right???" :) The Scott Family - Lee, Janet, and Mallory, with Cory and myself. Drew was killed four years ago in a one-car accident. While he was particularly fond of sh...

7/12/13 To conclude this week's travel across Iowa to county fairs, the Iowa 4-H Foundation Executive Directior, Kris Fish Kuhlmann, made a stop at the Lee County Fair. Little did we know, that this fair is actually Iowa's oldest county fair, founded in 1841! Lee County has a very strong emphasis & presence upon livestock.  They are proud to say that they were the first in Iowa to showcase such competition and create "learn by doing."  Like all county fairs, heavily dependent upon volunteers, Frank & Betty are significant contributors to make it all happen.    Speaking of volunteers, they have a Fair Board with a very visible presence... not hard to find in their matching shirts.  Director Lindsey & President Brian were extremely cordial and welcoming.  So were the rest of them at the hog show.  Living history farm replica   They have a beautifully modern youth center, which plays host to year-round 4-H festivities....