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2019 EAST OTTER TAIL COUNTY FAIR UPDATE
Dear 4-H Families & Leaders,
Please read this update letter…
It will make your County Fair Experience much more fruitful!
…it contains important County Fair details and instructions as well as a listing of volunteer opportunities; it takes
many volunteers to make the county fair happen so please consider sharing your time and talents.
The East Otter Tail County Fair is just around the corner. Be diligent in the completion of your project work.
There are a lot of people who enjoy seeing your work and we get many compliments every year on how well our
4-H members showcase their creativity and learning.
As you are getting your projects ready for the fair, think about entering your "extras" in the Open Class. They
have lots of non-livestock areas to enter things in, including gardening, foods, clothing, photography, flowers, etc.
Open Class registration begins on Tuesday of the fair.
What is conference judging? Conference judging is viewed by Minnesota Educators as a very positive
technique for evaluating the learning process. It is seen as a positive learning experience motivating youth
towards excellence in the planning, organizing and implementing processes, improved quality of projects, and
increased knowledge about standards and the decision making development. Approach conference judging if you
were going to an interview.
The role of the evaluator is to help youth process information on a deeper level and develop strategies for lifelong
learning. The model of experiential learning engages youth and encourages learning by doing. Experiential
learning takes place when a person is involved in an activity, looks back at it critically, (reflection) determines
what was useful or important to remember, and is able to transfer their learning to other areas of life. 4-H youth
programs and project work promote life skill development through this type of experiential learning. Conference
judging is a part of the reflection piece to the Experiential Learning Model; likewise is record keeping and telling
one’s 4-H story.
4-Hers are highly encouraged to complete the final phase of project work, the completion of a year in review
record. Records aid the reflection process and are a great tool for developing self-awareness; becoming one who
can constructively examine their own character and make the needed adjustments in “Making the Best Better”.
How can youth be prepared for conference judging? Anticipate some question the judge may ask. And have
somewhat of an idea of how the question may be answered. Another way is to have parents ask their
child/children questions. Some questions that you might want to be prepared for are; What was fun about doing
this project? What difficulties did you have doing your project? What was the one new thing you learned through
your project work experience? What did you learn about yourself doing your 4-H project work? What other kinds
of project work have you done in this area? What kind of decisions did you have to make while doing your
project work? Questions are the foundation to critical thinking skills being developed. Keep in mind the who’s,
what’s, and whys’ as you prepare for the conference judging portion of your 4-H learning experience. If parents
are going to help (which we hope many do) prepare youth for conference judging, remember tact is essential to a
positive learning experience for the child/children. Feedback is important, but even more important is how the
feedback is given. Judgmental words or critical statements about the child can stop the learning process.
Constructive criticism needs to be done gently and with kind words if positive youth development and learning to
make improvements are to be accomplished. Remember 4-H puts the “positive” in youth development.
If you would like a help guide for designing and presenting your Fair exhibit, please call or e-mail the Extension
office and we’ll get you a copy of “Tell a Story with a Blue Ribbon Exhibit”.
Finally, relax and have fun sharing your knowledge with others. It’s great to learn but it is even more fun when
one can share that learning with another. And remember to celebrate with words of praise; “you sure did a good
job making that pillow, etc.” Be specific in what you see as a “good job”! A child always needs to be affirmed in
who they are and that what they accomplished is good; remember it’s the process that births development. Have
fun and we’ll see you at the fair!
New to 4-H? If you need any help through the County Fair Experience please contact the Extension Office 4-H
Staff. We would be glad to help guide you through any unfamiliar territory. No question is too silly or an
inconvenience! If staff is not available for an urgent question, reach out to your fellow 4-H’ers and Club Leaders.
EOT County Conflict Resolution Policy:
When conflicts, concerns, disagreements arise at club meetings, federation meetings, county fair judging,
livestock shows, food stand, or any event held in the name of East Otter Tail County 4-H the following
guidelines are to be followed as per the volunteer code of conduct that was signed by volunteers.
1. Preventing conflicts, issues and disagreements are possible by simple thinking through the situation, by looking
at it through the lens of the other person/s involved, as well as having a positive attitude. Likewise, remember
that decisions are made through the democratic process.
ALL can be heard, but not ALL will have the decision favor their understanding or view point. Accept the
process and work towards unity. Attitude is everything when preventing conflicts and dealing with issues and
disagreements that harm the growth of the 4-H volunteers, its members and the organization as a whole.
County Fair judging is a “subjective” means of reaching a decision. It is just the way it is. Judges’ orientation
will inform the judges of the expectations; however, every person has a preference and a bias. Focus on what
you can change and not what cannot be changed.
Youth development is the goal. Ribbon placing is not a measure of learning. It is simply the external
outcome of project work. Learning produces character changes/ growth.
2. However, when conflict arises
a. Have a private conversation between the parties.
b. Listen to the concern, their side of the story and what is the underlining issue.
c. Keep people accountable to their words.
d. Plan for a response as part of the conversation; be kind, be gentle, be patient, be prepared
3. When a conflict cannot be resolved between the parties
a. Bring the concern to the 4-H Program Coordinator within 1 week of the conflict
b. The 4-H PC will bring the parties together to bring resolution
c. If no resolution occurs, then the conflict will be brought to the Regional or State Management for resolution
4. When conflicts arises at the county fair livestock shows
a. First resolve the issue between those in whom you have indifferences with
b. Second, if not resolved, bring it to the lead volunteer of that show
c. Thirdly, if the lead volunteer is unable to mediate a resolution bring it to the 4-H PC
d. Lastly, if no resolution results, the issue can be brought to a grievance committee for review
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FAIR SCHEDULE
Tuesday, July 9th - Pet Show
10:00 a.m. Location TBD
4-Her’s welcome to attend the pet show with as
many pets they would like to bring. Only one
premium is given per 4-H’er.
Thursday, July 18th - Clothing Day –
Demonstrations- Food Revue – Performing Arts
New York Mills High School
9:00- Noon Demo/ Food Revue Judging
1:30-3:30 Clothing Judging
3:30-4:30 Performing Arts Judging
4:30- 5:30 Practice for Public Showcase (performing
arts and clothing)
7:00 pm Public Showcase
See last page for schedule.
(Quilts will be judged at the county fair.)
Pre-Fair Food Stand Clean Up -
Heinola Hustlers
July 20th – 4-H Work Day
• Food Prep – 6 a.m. Clubs should send 2
adults/Jr. Leaders to help with this task.
• Barn & exhibit building set up. 9- noon
Animal Science members set up the barns
• · Barn Cards will be printed from fair entry
• · Set up Rabbit cages & put up barn cards
• · Set up Swine/Sheep/Goat Barns
• · Set up Show Arenas
• Dent Helping Hands wash shelfing displays
and set Exhibit building for judging
• Noon – Pot luck lunch will be served. BBQ’s
provided. Families please bring beverage and
side dish to share.
Tuesday, July 23rd — Non-Livestock Judging
Conference Judging from 1:00—6:00 p.m. No set
time for members to come, come when it fits your
schedule the best.
Livestock Interviews: From 1-6 p.m. Registration is
done through the FairEntry process. Call Aleecia at
the Extension Office if you have questions 385-5426
Wednesday, July 24th—Mills Magic and Ind.
4-Hers Set Up Exhibit Bldg, Club Leader contact
office to schedule.
ARRIVAL TIME NEW FOR 2019
All animals must arrive at the County Fairgrounds
for Veterinarian/ Animal ID Check: 7:00am- Noon/
3:00-8:00pm
(NO Thursday arrival times this year)
Thursday, July 25th.
9:00 a.m. Goat Show
11:00 a.m. FFA & 4-H Beef Show
1:30 pm Poultry Show
5:30 p.m. FFA & 4-H Sheep Show
Friday, July 26th
8:00 a.m. Rabbit Show
10:00 a.m. FFA & 4-H Dairy Show
5:00 p.m. Swine Show
Saturday, July 27th
10:00 a.m. 4-H Pleasure Horse Show
9:00 a.m. Dairy Recognition
10:00 a.m. Auction
2:00 p.m. Club Olympics
Auction appreciation luncheon to follow auction
Sunday, July 28th
9:00 a.m. 4-H Horse Training & Games
1:00 p.m. Small Animal Round Robin
1-3:00 p.m. State Fair Registration – Exhibt Bld.
2:30 p.m. Livestock & Non-Livestock
Award’s Program
4:00 p.m. Animals loaded—Pens must be
cleaned & equipment put in place &
animals released
4:00 p.m. Country Side Corners Food Stand
Clean Up.
6:00 p.m. Non-livestock exhibits released. No
premiums will be given to 4-H ‘ers
leaving early.
6:00 p.m. Rock -A-Boosters Exhibit
building clean up.
Livestock Interviews
4-H Livestock interviews will be held on Tuesday,
July 223rd. at the 4-H Food from 1-6pm. Interviews
are open to all 4-H members. (Cloverbuds are
encouraged to participate in interviews but are
eligible for participation awards only).Interview
times are scheduled for every 10 minutes. Register
for interviews through Fairentry. If you do not sign
up you will have to wait for the next available
interview time and will receive an interview only if
the judge has time.
4-H’ers must be enrolled in the project area to
participate in the interview for that specie.
Premier Exhibitor
The purpose of this contest is to recognize an
exhibitor that excels in the areas of care, knowledge
and presentation of their livestock projects.
▪ The award will include the following species:
Beef, Dairy, Sheep, and Swine.
▪ There are two age divisions: Grades 3-5 and 9+.
▪ Exhibitors must register on their county fair
registration on fair entry.
▪ Premier Exhibitors are required to participate in
all aspects of the program.
▪ See Premium book for Judging Criteria
Herdsmanship Contest
Clubs will be judged on stall and animal appearance,
cleanliness and exhibitor courtesy & behavior.
Herdsmanship will be judged in each area. Special
prize money is available to clubs through
Herdsmanship. The prizes will be available in:
Dairy, Goat, Beef, Sheep, Swine, Rabbits, Horse,
and Poultry.
Livestock Entries
*If you are in 6th+ grade you MUST complete
LQA&E training prior to the County fair! LQA&E
Training will be held on June 10th 6:00pm @ Fergus
Falls fairgrounds or call the office for on-line
options.
Livestock exhibitors will need to bring their own
hay, grain, bedding, hoses, buckets and washing
materials for their animals at the Fair. You may want
to bring an old watering pan also. Poultry & Rabbit
waters will be provided and need to be checked out
at the Rabbit/Poultry barn. Poultry & rabbit
exhibitors should bring their own shavings.
Poultry
If showing in the open class poultry show you must
bring a different pen of birds to exhibit - you cannot
use your 4-H project.
Animal Check in with Veterinarian
Please have the County Fair Vet. examine your
animals prior to unloading them. A stop by station
will be set up by the grandstand area before you get
to the new barn. Animal ID’s will be checked at the
Vet Station or at the door of the barn.
Animals can arrive Wednesday from 7:00am-
Noon/ 3:00-8:00pm All livestock trailers must use
the Northeast gate (by the ticket stand) and pass
by the County Veterinarian.
Cloverbuds
Just a reminder that you must follow all testing
requirements for animals you will be bringing to the
County Fair. Check with the local Veterinarian or
4-H staff if you have questions. Your animals
(except pets, horses & dogs) will remain at the
County Fair. You may recall that again this year, a
parent, adult or responsible teen (having completed
6th grade or above) must be handling the animal.
NO EXCEPTIONS. The Cloverbud can be beside
the adult and answer questions and share what they
have learned. If you have not ID’d your
Cloverbud animal, please call the Extension Office
to do so, as the MN Board of Health will require
some form of ID.
4-H Dairy Recognition Show
Those wishing to participate in the 4-H Dairy
Recognition Show must register through fairentry.
This includes Cloverbuds. The Show is held on
Saturday of County Fair at approximately 9:00 a.m.
Dairy Families
Photos for the Dairy Recognition will be taken on
Friday, July 26th during the Dairy Show by the
Dairy area. A 4-H’er needs only one picture taken
with one animal for Dairy Recognition Photos.
Please remain in your Show clothes for pictures.
DHIA Production Class
DHIA papers must be turned in to the 4-H Office at
the Fairgrounds on Thursday by 3:00 p.m. Turn in
the 305 Day Standardized M.E. Milk Figures
verified by your DHIA supervisor. Highlight the
animal ID. They may be picked up again after the
Dairy Show on Saturday or anytime thereafter.
Small Animal Round Robin Showmanship –
There will be a small animal Round Robin
Showmanship at 1:00pm on Sunday. This will
include rabbits, goats, waterfowl, and other poultry.
The top two showmen will be selected and these
eight will then compete in each area. There will be a
traveling trophy presented in memory of Shaunalea
Huwe. Questions should be directed to Vicki
Jacobson
Round Robin Guidelines
1. If for any reason the first and second placings
cannot participate, the third place will be invited
through 6th place at the discretion of the Specie
Lead Volunteer as directed by show judge.
2. Any age level of showman is eligible for the
Round Robin Contest.
3. After each Showmanship Contest, the Lead
Volunteer of that specie will notify the winner of
their right to participate in the Round Robin Contest,
as well as notify the 4-H Office if the 4-H’er is
going to participate. The 4-H office will post all
Round Robin Contestants by 6:00 pm on Friday.
4. Members must show an animal from their own
family.
5. A 4-H’er is eligible to participate in the Round
Robin Showmanship Contest with the same specie
or with different species for as many years as they
are granted the privilege providing they do not win
the contest. A 4-H’er is eligible to win the Round
Robin Contest consecutive years with different
species.
1. The Round Robin Showmanship Contest
will consist of showing the animal.
2. A scale of 1-10 will be used for scoring
purposes.
3. Judges get approximately 4 minutes per
specie: clockwise rotation.
4. Lead Volunteers will be the judges for their
specie area unless they have a child or
relative participating, at which time they
will ask another volunteer to judge.
5. Show time 2:00 pm Saturday in the Show
Arena.
6. The Round Robin Lead Volunteer will be
responsible to oversee, set up and tear down
for this event.
7. Contestant will be assigned show number
worn on back or front.
Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction
Check the 4-H Premium List for details on the
4-H Livestock Auction. It will be the responsibility
of each 4-H'er to sign up on the sign-up sheets in
each barn as to which animal (s) they want placed in
the Auction. This must be done by 7:00 p.m. for
swine and 4:00 p.m. for all other species on
Friday. A 4-Her can bring only two animals into the
auction (two large, two small or one of each) The
two animals must be different species. A 4-H’er
must bring their highest placing animals. Remember
to invite your local businesses to participate! They
make the Auction what it is! The Auction will be
held on Saturday of the County Fair. Cloverbuds
will be recognized at the Auction again this year so
they need to sign up as well. No dollar awards will
be given, however, they will receive recognition and
have their photo taken.
Bidders will receive a complementary Food Stand
Coupon for attending the auction.
Reminder: Dairy Beef & Beef Prospect Calves are
not eligible to participate in the Auction. However,
Dairy Feeders will receive a $50.00 cash award from
Redeemed Acres Farm if they receive a Blue
Ribbon, participate in showmanship, and interviews.
Rabbit Members
The County Fair Veterinarian has made a request
that 4-H’ers and parents take the time to walk
through the barns every 1-2 hours to check on all the
animals. We recommend making a schedule in
advance with other families to share this
responsibility. If an animal needs attention the 4-H
office or animal owner should be contacted
immediately. The concern might be no water on an
extremely hot day, animal in distress, etc.
If you put combination locks or use keys on your
cages please give the 4-H Office the combination or
a spare key with your name on it so we or the
Veterinarian may access your cage if necessary.
Horse Project Members
Please note that the 4-H Horse Show will be held
Saturday of the County Fair and will start promptly
at 10:00 a.m. The judging will be held at the Horse
Arena on the fairgrounds. A coggins test is required
for horses. (A copy of your coggins should have
been entered in MN.4honline.com) Horse training
& games are scheduled for Sunday of the County
Fair.
County Fair Lead Volunteers
We would like to thank the following people for
agreeing to be Lead Volunteers for County Fair!
Rabbit—
Poultry— Vicki Jacobson
Goat: Kendra and Dustin Geiser
Dairy Show — Dave and Jen Schwantes
Beef—
Horse— Tanya Brauch/Teresa Hagerty/Beth Niemi
Swine—Brent Gudmunson
Sheep— Geiser/Bauck families
4-H Auction-
Round Robin– Vicki Jacobson , helper needed
4-H Dairy Recognition Photos – Dairy Club Leaders
Cleaning Pens at County Fair
You may load your animals on Sunday night at 4:00
p.m. and you may depart as soon your pen has been
cleaned. Pens must be cleaned to prevent us from
having to pay pen charges in future year’s fairs. All
equipment must be put back in the proper place.
Each Barn has a posted sign as to what needs to be
done. Let’s all do our part!
FYI: Just a reminder. You can only sign up 1
animal project per lot/category. For example, you
can only show one Junior Doe, or one Fall Feeder
calf, etc. Due to the fact that 4-H’ers must show their
own (or leased animal).
County Fair Parking Passes
County Fair Parking Passes are available through 4-
H at a reduced rate of $5.00 per ticket which covers
the entire fair week. The gate is free again this year
but parking on the fairgrounds will be $2.00 per day
per vehicle. These tickets should be ordered
through your Club's Key Leader by July 8th .
Your Key Leader will pick them up on non-livestock
entry day and distribute them to their Club’s 4-H
families. No passes will be ordered after July 10th,
or without checks to cover pass expenses; make
checks payable to EOT Ag. Society.
Judging Day Conflict?
If you have a valid reason to be excused from
conference judging, present your case to Janet by
calling the Extension Office at 385-5420.
Future 4-H Category
If your Club has some prospects for future 4-H'ers,
here's their chance to exhibit in a 4-H project.
Future 4-H’ers …
1. Are Limited to 3 non-livestock projects
(no livestock projects allowed)
2. Have the option of conference judging (with the
Cloverbud Judge) or not (may wait in line for
comments or have a comment sheet).
3. Will be awarded a participation ribbon but no
premiums.
On entry day, each Future 4-H'er will pick up an
entry sheet from the entry table and will record
Name, Age, Future Club and Project. They may
proceed to the Cloverbud Judge if they desire
conference judging or they may leave their project
for written comments on the Future 4-H'ers table.
4-H Office & Exhibit Building Hours
The 4-H Office at the County Fair and the 4-H
Exhibit Building will be open the following hours
during the County Fair:
Thursday - 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday - 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Saturday – 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday - noon - 6 p.m
Exhibit Building Schedule
( Clubs must provide 1-2 members to oversee
exhibit building during the below times)
Thursday
10-1 …. Perham Pride
1- 4 …. Heinola Hustlers
4-7 …. Henning Shining Lights
7-10 …. Mills Magic
Friday
10-1 …. Independent families
1-4 …. EOT Wranglers
4-7 …. Country Bumpkins
7-10 .… Woodside Workers
Saturday
10-1 …. Dent Helping Hands
1-4 …. Butler 4-H
4-7 …. Country Side Corners
7-10 …. Rock-A-Boosters
Sunday: 4-H Staff
9:00-Noon Demonstration/Food Revue
Clothing Day and Performing Arts 1:00 – Registration for clothing/performing arts
1:30-5:30 Judging
4:30-5:30 Rehearse for Showcase
7:00 p.m. Performing Arts & Style Showcase
See last page for schedule.
Camping at the EOT County Fair
The fair board has sectioned off a primitive camping
area for 4-H & FFA families. (There is no electrical
or water hook- up, or septic.) No cords or water
hoses on the ground and running from any pole or
faucet to campers.You may use generators if they
don’t conflict with neighbors. No campfires. Park in
the designated area and no one is allowed to camp
by the Fair Board Director’s area. To reserve a spot
and pay the $35 fee please call Diane Sazama 218-
346-2054 after 5:00 p.m. or e-mail
[email protected]. Cost is per camper or
parents/family for the duration of the fair. Parking
paid separate. Checks payable to EOT Ag Society
and sent to PO Box 152, Perham MN 56573 if not
previously arranged through your club leaders.
Club Rotation Schedule for County Fair
▪ Exhibit building Before Fair cleaning/ set
up: Dent Helping Hands July 20th
▪ Pre-Fair Food Stand Cleaning: Heinola
▪ Exhibit Building set up for public display:
Mills Magic & Independent 4-Hers
▪ Exhibit building AFTER-FAIR Clean-up
Rock -A Boosters
▪ Food Stand AFTER-Fair Clean-up Country
Side Corners
Judges Assistants Duties: 1. Introduce yourself to the judge. Let him/her when your done and who’s next. 2. Make sure you have sufficient supplies including project folder with judges’ sheets, ribbons,
pens/pencils, staplers/ staples, tape etc…. 3. See that the judge is well cared for (get water, if they need a restroom break man the
judging until they return) 4. Most IMPORTANTLY!!! fill in the ribbon placings on the judge’s sheets. Be accurate!!
a. add names to the correct sheet if they change lots—cross out the wrong or drop entries (write No Show on the judges’ sheets for drop entries)
b. Record ribbon placings using B for blue, R for red, and W for white. c. Be Sure champion and res. Champion are filled out d. Be SURE the state fair-lined up is filled out e. Be Sure the awards forms are filled out
5. Secure the ribbon placing sticker on all exhibit card 6. Secure the champion and res. Champion ribbons once judges’ selection is made 7. Put the exhibits on display as orderly as possible.
Club Non-Livestock Judging Day Responsibilities
Butler
Country Bumpkins
Countryside Corners
Henning Shining Lights
EOT Wranglers
Heinola Hustlers
Woodside Workers
Mills Magic
Rock-A-Boosters
Perham Pride
Dent Helping Hands
Independent
-------
Judging Area #1
Judging Area #2
Judging Area #3
Judging Area #4
Judging Area #5
Judging Area #6
Judging Area #7
Judging Area #8
Judging Area #9
Judging Area #10
Livestock Interviews
Registration Table
Family Consumer Science
Club Opp & Civic Experiences
Cloverbuds
Mechanical Science
Plant Science
Crop Science
Arts
Non-Animal Science
Natural Science
Photography
Please make sure all your workers are there on time so that they can be oriented & jobs
assignments can be given. If you are working the late shift, please note the doors close at 10:00pm
and clean up will follow
2019 Food Stand Shifts:
Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
8:00-1:00 ½ of EOT Wranglers Boys and Girls Club 4-6 graders 9:00- Noon
8:00-1:00 Dent Helping Hands & Mills Magic Mann family Lorezel Family
8:00-1:00 Heinola Hustlers
10:00- 4:00 Country Side Corner Close doors @ 2:00 Awards Program Begins at 2:30
12:45-6:00 Rock a Boosters
12:45-6:00 ½ EOT Wranglers Country Side Corners
12:45-6:00 Country Bumpkins Perham Pride
Clean-up @ 4:00 After Awards program
5:45- 10:00 ( doors close at 10:00, clean up to follow) Woodside Workers & Schermerhorn family
5:45- 10:00 ( doors close at 10:00, clean up to follow) Butler 4-H
5:45-10:00 ( doors close at 10:00 clean up to follow) Henning Shinning Lights
FOOD STAND PROCEDURES &
SCHEDULE
• Food prep day will be Saturday July 20th
• Each club should send 3-5 representatives to
help prepare barbeques & chili and to do
clean-up. A $10.00 per family donation was
requested to pay for pies.
• An adult Club Leader is to act as an
Assistant Food Stand Manager for their
Club’s shift.
• Food Stand Manager’s number— Kristi
Weller (218-639-0715 or call Janet (218-
639-0116)
• Cashiers will be needed during each shift - if
you have been a cashier in the past, please
volunteer again during your shift. Adults
only at the cash register please!
• The Food Stand will be open approximately
from 10:00 a.m.—10:00 p.m. Thursday—
Saturday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday.
• All workers will wear name tag
• Dress is very important when working with
the public & representing 4-H! It is great to
see clubs wearing their 4-H T-shirts! No
one can have bare feet or inappropriate
clothing. (no halter tops, belly shirts, low cut
tops, tube tops, swim trunks, etc. These
examples are unacceptable for adults and
youth alike.) Long hair must be neatly tied
back away from the face.
• If a change must be made to this schedule,
you must do this on your own with another
club that is willing. Then notify the Food
Stand Manager.
• Every 4-H’er and their parents are needed to
participate in this fundraiser. The Food
Stand dollars assist 4-Hers in various ways
such as, Program fees, Higher Education
Food Stand Schedule
Scholarships, Camp Fees, Training Fees,
State Fair trips. Your help is greatly needed
and greatly appreciated.
• Each 4-H’er is to sign in and sign out for the
assigned shift.
• Malt Stand is in a wagon this year so an
adult or Sr. high Teen will need to be in the
malt wagon if younger youth are working
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STATE FAIR INFORMATION
State Fair Trips: State Fair Line-ups are posted
after judging in the 4-H Office.
4-H'ers (those completing 6th grade and above) that
receive the opportunity to go to the State Fair must
decide if they will take their trip prior to 1:00 p.m on
Sunday, July 28nd . If we do not know your
decision prior to 1 p.m. we will assume you are not
going to State Fair and will allow others in line the
opportunity.
State Fair Encampment: The dates for our non-
livestock project 4-H'ers will be August 27-29
Tuesday -Thursday) Livestock projects will attend
Wednesday - Sunday, which is August 21st-25th .
Livestock will be transported Wednesday.
State Fair Eligibility: Top placing exhibits in most
projects are eligible for State Fair trips. Exhibits
will be selected on overall basis in those projects.
Members must accompany their project to the State
Fair & must have completed the 6th grade.
Members eligible for State Fair must register for
State Fair between 1-3:00 p.m. on on Sunday July
22nd at the 4-H exhibit building on the fairgrounds.
It is preferred that you submit your packet and
payment at that time, we will accept them through
Monday, July 23rd at 2:00 p.m.
A parent or guardian is needed to sign some of the
forms so bring them with you. A sign up poster is
located in the 4-H Office for State Fair trips. If you
are not eligible and your name is on this list, please
sign no under whether or not you wish to take the
trip. All 4-H’ers and leaders/parents should come in
to the Office and check the list. The dual trip policy
is still in effect: A 4-H’er can take a non-livestock
and a livestock project the same year.
Payment/ Cost:
All program fees ($60.00,$50.00, 35.00) will be paid
by the Federation for State Fair participants.
Lodging and meal tickets are the responsibility of
the 4-H’er and chaperone. Lodging at the
fairgrounds cost is $22.00 per day (livestock—3
days) (non-livestock—2 days) and meal prices are
$7.50 each. Transportation will be discussed after
State Fair registration is completed and needs are
assessed. Additional cost will be determined at that
time if necessary.
Reminder: 4-H’ers who desire to have program fee
paid by the Federation are required to work a shift at
the 4-H Food Stand. Please coordinate this with your
Club Leader.
Chaperones: Parents may want to consider
chaperoning at the State Fair. We will need these
people to also sign up on Sunday in the 4-H Exhibit
Building. The cost for chaperones will be the same
as the 4-H’ers costs (which includes a paid program
fee.) Lodging & meals are on your own.
Transportation will be discussed after State Fair
Registration same as for 4-H members. Chaperones
must be a screened volunteer. Contact Kelsey to
make sure this is done if you are not already a
screened volunteer.
Meals: Meal tickets may be purchased off your
State Fair packets at your State Fair sign-up time.
Meal costs are $7.50 each for breakfast, lunch and
dinner. Previous State Fair chaperones encourage
youth staying at the State Fair to purchase at least 2
meals a day.
Employment Opportunities at State Fair—It takes
more than 130 staff to “put on the 4-H show” at the
Minnesota State Fair. Job opportunities range from
livestock assistants to dorm staff and maintenance to
food service. You can find more information on
State Fair 4-H employment on the MN 4-H webpage
or call the local Extension Office.
Blue Ribbon Demonstrators at the State Fair
All Blue Ribbon demonstrators are eligible for State
Fair as long as the demonstrator meets the grade
requirement. Demonstrators can use an animal they
have already won a trip with or borrow an animal a
4-H’ers has won a livestock trip with. Contact the
Extension Office for more info.
Shooting Sports State Shoot - September 6-8
Registration is due July 17th to the local Extension
Office. Contact Bill & Jodi Holtti for Registration
Forms and other information. Be sure to sign all
consent forms that are in the packet prior to bringing
them to the Extension Office.
State Dog Show – September 21-22
The State Dog Show is at the Minnesota State
Fairgrounds. Program fee of $15 will be paid by the
Federation. Cost per 4-H’er is $15 for each class
entered. Eligible 4-H’ers are 4th grade at time of
show and someone who earned a blue ribbon at the
County Dog Show. Please contact the Extension
Office for more information.
State Horse Show – September 13-16
Those eligible to go to the State Horse Show must
sign up on Sunday at the 4-H Exhibit Building from
3 – 4 p.m.
The University of Minnesota Extension Service is
committed to the policy that all persons shall have
equal access to its programs, facilities, and
employment without regard to race, color, creed,
religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status,
disability, public assistance status, veteran status, or
sexual orientation.
Auction Etiquette Auction History: In Minnesota 4-H, auctions evolved from what were
primarily market animal projects in beef, sheep and
swine. Those involved in early auctions tell us
auctions were created to recognize the commitment,
work and expense involved with these market
animal projects. Today, some MN 4-H Auctions
remain market animal only auctions. Others include
other species or female animals or even non-animal
projects. Regardless, that early desire to reward
commitment and quality remain a focus of 4-H
Auction Committees across Minnesota.
Dress Code and Behavior:
Treat the auction as if it were show day. Wear
appropriate, clean clothing. If you have an animal in
the auction make sure it is well trained and well
groomed. Other projects should be well maintained,
neat and clean. Auction Day is a time to be on your
best behavior. Be professional and courteous.
Buyer Recruitment:
Most auctions will appreciate and even expect a
certain level of buyer recruitment. As 4-H families
begin to solicit potential buyers, they should
remember that they are soliciting support for a 4-H
auction program; not for individual gain.
Admittedly, this can be a fine line. Most buyers
indicate they believe they are supporting the broader
4-H program when they participate in a 4-H
Auction. Some buyers may prefer to support specific
families that are customers or relatives for example,
but should be encouraged to remember they are
supporting 4-H as a whole. Remember, a minimum
of 20% of every dollar brought through a 4-H
auction is used to support local 4-H programming in
a variety of ways.
Media Interaction and Public Perception:
4-H Auctions are often the lead story near the end of
a fair. As a result, 4-H auction participants are often
photographed and interviewed. It is a good idea to
visit as a family about how to answer media
questions relative to what you have learned or your
relationship with your animal. Hopefully you’ll have
some positive experiences to share about your
project, what you’ve learned and perhaps even who
helped you along the way.
Interaction with other participants:
It is common that within 4-H auctions, premiums
paid may vary from specie to specie, from 4-Her to
4-Her and from ribbon to ribbon. Auction
committees are encouraged to monitor auction
premiums as they relate to these variables. They are
encouraged to help ensure that positive youth
development is reflected in auctions. Be gracious
regardless of where your premium ends up;
remember, the auction is a privilege.
Buyer Appreciation:
Buyer appreciation is critical to all 4-H auctions.
Each auction is encouraged to have a system in place
that properly recognizes buyers. Be sure you know
what is expected of you and deliver it with
appreciation and sincerity. Thank you notes should
be well thought out, reflecting what you have
learned. Auction photos, certificates and other forms
of appreciation should be delivered in a timely
manner. Remember, without buyers there would be
no auction.
4-H Auction participation is a privilege earned not a
right.
12
Fair Thoughts Worth Repeating
by Brad Rugg, MN State Fair 4-H Programming Superintendent
It’s fair time! Minnesota summers are famous for fishing, baseball, and of course, county fairs. They have
become a great way for 4-H youth to celebrate their learning and to renew friendships.
Minnesota summers also bring heat, humidity, and tempers. For most, the fair experience can be a 4-H family’s
best friend. But every once in a while, the fair can be their worst enemy.
There are a couple of basic principles to remember when families put the finishing touches on projects and get
ready for fair. First, remember whose project it is. Certainly, 4-H is meant to be a family affair with parents
providing support and guidance around project work. Wonderful memories and bonds form when parents and
kids work and learn together. Fairs are not an opportunity for over-zealous parents to relive their own 4-H
experience of a generation ago. The key is to support the project-not do the project.
Secondly, keep competition in perspective. Every class will have a winner but no 4-H fair competition should
have a loser. Be it the steer show or a demonstration, the lamb lead contest or the shop exhibits, only one will be
lucky enough to get the top purple. It is difficult to win, but even more difficult to win with humility. Be a good
winner. But just as important; be a good “Learner”, if the outcome isn’t quite what was expected, look back at all
you learned by just participating. One can learn much from those unexpected outcomes, be it rejoicing or
disappointments.
Finally, keep a level head. Any large event with competition will bring a level of controversy. Sometimes 4-H
leaders are placed in very uncomfortable situations when addressing conflict.
Flaring tempers and unkind words solve nothing. Remember that judges and 4-H staff are human. They aren’t
out looking for controversy, but if it arises, it is their responsibility to attempt to resolve it. Make the most of your
fair experiences this summer. Make them learning and celebratory experiences for the whole family. The great
memories they create will last a lifetime. Mine did!
EOT 4-H Clothing, Performing Arts, Food Review and Demonstration Day
July 18th New York Mills School 1:00 pm registration for clothing judging begins
Time Purchase Fashion Review (how the outfit fits and appearance)
Constructed Fashion Review (how
the outfit fits and appearance)
Constructed Judging (how the garment is sewed)
Purchase Booklets (see premium book for criteria)
1:30- 2:00 Grades 3-5 Grades 6 and above
2:00- 2:30 Grades 6 and above
Grades 3-5
2:30- 3:00 Grades 3-5 Grades 6 and above
3:00- 3:30 Grades 6 and above
Grades 3-5
3:30- 4:30 Performing Arts Judging
Clover Buds ( both clothes you make
and clothes you buy & fashion review)
Judges selections Court of Honor and champions / State Fair Trips
4:30- 5:30
PRACTICE: For public showcase (all Perf. Arts. & clothing members)
All Judging is at the New York Mills School on Thursday July 18th
➢ Clothing and Performing Arts in the auditorium & auditorium foyer
➢ Demonstrations & Food Review FACS/Commons/ youth can sign up for a preferred
time for demonstration & food review through county fair entry
➢ Public Showcase will be held at 7:00pm