4-H Scrambles, a fun night packs Logan County Grandstand

[August 10, 2016]  A 4-H extravaganza took place at the Logan County Grandstand Wednesday night. From the Queens welcome to lights out there was something for everyone. Friends and family packed the stands and stood along the track to cheer for the evening’s activities. The program started with the 4-H cheer from the young cheer squad, outstanding young 4-H members received special recognitions and scholarships, and High School Graduates were introduced. Then it was time for the highlight of the evening, the livestock scrambles.

Starting at five-years-old children run after chickens, some eager to catch one and some too timid to grab it.

Next, the eight and nine year-olds chased goats. The goats are caught quickly and a short intermission from animals takes place.

During the breaktime, 4-H alumni have a relay of children’s games that is fun for them and the audience.

The smell of coconut soon filled the air as the pigs for the 10-15 year olds were greased with coconut shampoo.

2016 Fair Queen Michelle Paulus and new Little Miss Logan County Paisley Baker helped get the pigs ready. As the pigs were let out of the fences the crowd came alive with cheers for the scramblers.

Finally, the calves were set free for the 12-17 year olds to chase. The calves often weighed more than the scramblers and were not about to slow down to be caught. The lucky winners will bring the calves back next year for judging. Those who won last year presented their cows before the judges in front of the grandstand. Folks that attended last year were amazed at how big the cows had gotten in just one year.

The tradition of animal scrambles is a great way for future leaders of the livestock industry to learn first-hand the ins and outs of the business. Working with adults the kids set goals for their animals, devise an action plan, list ways to help others related to their project, and communicate with others the results of their efforts. Working with the animals gives the kids life skills like confidence, independence, and compassion.

[Lisa Ramlow]