Two views of the County Fair

For the last three years I have been an active member of the Bonners Ferry FFA Chapter. When I first became a member, I was basically drop kicked out of my comfort zone and into public speaking competitions, livestock judging CDE’s, and vet science practicums. It was nerve wracking in the beginning, but after the first time speaking in front of a panel of judges, I realized how much I actually enjoyed it. I had always been fine with public speaking, and some part of me had always liked talking in front of audiences, but when it came to competing in that area, I felt a little overwhelmed. There was a lot of pressure on me because I wasn’t just competing for myself, but my entire chapter was counting on me. My first competition that involved public speaking was the Creed Speaking CDE. I had to recite all five paragraphs of the FFA Creed in front of three judges and then answer questions pertaining to what I had just said. Unfortunately, I didn’t score as well as I had been hoping and I placed seventh out of 12. But, thanks to the persuasion and tremendous support from my FFA advisory Julie Smith, I didn’t quit and went on a few years later to become the second place winner of the North Idaho District Prepared Public Speaking CDE. Seeing where I started and then looking at what I’ve accomplished along the way gives me such confidence and satisfaction because I never would have seen myself learning and doing as much as I have without organizations like the FFA. After 3 years of being a member and attending huge events such as the State Leadership Conference in Boise, Idaho and the National FFA Convention all the way in Indianapolis, Indiana, I’ve realized that this isn’t just another organization, it’s one big family spread out across 50 states and a few islands. Everyone who wears a blue corduroy jacket with the FFA Emblem on the front and their home chapter on the back knows that FFA and the agriculture industry is more than just cows and plows, it’s a lifestyle and a community that is connected on a national level. To participate and be a member of such a prestigious organization is such an honor and I have nothing but positive things to say about the FFA. I enjoy every moment when I’m wearing my blue and gold attire, and although I’m going to miss being in FFA after I graduate in two years, I will be just as honored to be an FFA Alumni member.

— By Katelyn Hutchinson

Fair Royalty Applicant

Hi, my name is Michaela Worley. I’ve been in 4-H for nine years and have extremely enjoyed all the memories and experiences I have had throughout my involvement. All of the exhibits, years I was voted in as an officer, and the forever bonds I have formed. From sewing, woodwork, market animals and many other projects I have entered in the fair. As I am reminiscing about my experience of 4-H over the last several years, I recall those memories I’ve made, the responsibility and confidence of which it has given me. I would like to take time to advocate and raise awareness of the amazing experience you and/or your family can use to give back to the community, learning life skills, take responsibility to raise an animal and all the records that it takes, work ethic, and building yourselves up for the futures. I can keep these friendship, connections and skills for the rest of my life. 4-H has been an experience of a lifetime, I hope you and your families are able to become involved and make lasting memories of your own.

Over the many years that I’ve been involved in 4-H, I have essentially lived at the fair from dusk till dawn. I have made countless memories. One memory that I often think about is when I was a child; I remember running through the strip of food vendors at the fair. I quite vividly remember the blue and pink bags of cotton candy hanging and the kids racing to see who could finish the watermelon slice first. When someone mentions fair, this memory and many others, I will cherish forever. In Bonners Ferry, we have so many opportunities at the fair for both kids and parents. We have numerous activities and things to enjoy; like watermelon eating contest, cook offs, elephant ears, many exhibits and of course many animals to see. I love the memories I’ve been able to form with family and friends. The warm summer nights spent walking through the barns and enjoying the variety of fair foods. Come down and make some memories of your own. Opening ceremonies begin Wednesday, Aug. 15, at 7 p.m.

— By Michaela Worley

Fair Royalty Applicant