Every summer, the Greene County Fair provides local children with the opportunity to participate in events through 4-H programs. However, for kids who are too young to join 4-H, the fair offers a program called CloverBuds. CloverBuds is designed for children aged 5 to 8 who are not yet ready for 4-H. Once they turn 9, they are eligible to transition into the 4-H program, which focuses on developing life skills through hands-on projects.
One of the highlight events of the CloverBud program at the Greene County Fair is the veggie car race. This year, kids under the age of nine participated in the race, where they raced vehicles made entirely out of vegetables. From carrots and peppers to cucumbers and tomatoes, the creativity and ingenuity of the young participants were on full display as they crafted their mini cars and competed against each other.
The veggie car race took place on a Thursday, drawing a large crowd of families and fair attendees who gathered to watch the exciting event. The atmosphere was filled with cheers and laughter as the kids raced their vegetable cars down the track. It was a fun and engaging activity that not only entertained the audience but also taught the children about creativity, teamwork, and healthy eating.
Following the Veggie Car Race, the fair held a graduation ceremony for CloverBud kids who were old enough to join 4-H. This graduation marked a significant milestone for the young participants, as they officially transitioned into the next phase of their involvement with the fair and 4-H program. The ceremony was a moment of celebration and pride for both the children and their families.
Mark Everman, a long-time volunteer with 4-H at the fair, emphasized the importance of programs like CloverBuds in engaging children at an early age. He highlighted the increase in CloverBud numbers this year as a positive sign for the future of the 4-H program. Everman’s personal connection to 4-H, with his grandparents being part of one of the original 4-H clubs, speaks to the long-standing tradition and impact of the program on generations of families.
The CloverBud program not only provides children with a fun and educational experience at the fair but also teaches them valuable lessons about responsibility and agriculture. Kala Benton, a member of the board of directors for the Greene County Fair, emphasized the importance of starting kids off early in learning about animals, projects, and responsibility. CloverBuds serve as a stepping stone for children to eventually transition into 4-H and continue their growth and development through various projects and activities.
In conclusion, the CloverBud program at the Greene County Fair offers young children a unique and engaging way to get involved in the fair and learn valuable life skills. From the veggie car race to the graduation ceremony, the program provides a fun and educational experience for kids who are not yet ready for 4-H. As the fair comes to a close, the memories and lessons learned by the CloverBud participants will surely stay with them as they continue their journey with 4-H and beyond.