July 1st marks the beginning of my 31st year as a Family and Consumer Science Agent. The old adage “Time flies when you are having fun” is definitely true. It does not seem like a year has passed since I was ordering bread for the 4-H barbecue or lining up roasters for preparing the baked beans. 

During the next few weeks my job responsibilities shift from the usual adult education audiences to a support role in the 4-H and youth development area. I love interacting with youngsters who may be nervous about visiting with the judge who is checking over their project work.  4-Hers learn so much from the consultation judging that is done in all of the project areas.

The Barton County Fair dates are July 10th – 14th and the Ellis County Fair spans the week of July 14-21, with several pre-fair activities scheduled the week before each fair. Several of our fair events overlap this year which is unfortunate, but unavoidable. I hope you are making plans to visit one or both of our Fairs this year. You will be impressed with the way volunteers transform the exhibit buildings into a fun place to showcase the work of 4-Hers during the past year. 

You may recall an earlier column when I welcomed two new team members to the Cottonwood Extension District. Michelle Beran, the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in Barton County and Lauren Walz, the Cottonwood District Horticulture Agent, are completing their first month as Cottonwood team members. We have welcome events planned at both of our Fairs for you to come out to meet and greet Michelle and Lauren. The welcome event in Barton County will be during the Business Appreciation Breakfast which is set for Thursday, July 11, with serving starting at 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. The welcome event in Ellis County will be held from 1–3 p.m. on Wednesday, July 17, in the Schenk Building.

Along with our 4-H and Youth Agents, Michelle Beran and Susan Schlicting, we are enjoying the youthful help from Mikey Hughes and Kory Ridnour, our summer interns. Of course you will see all agents and our office professionals working to help make each Fair a success. Both of our extension offices will be closed during our Fair week but you can leave phone messages and we’ll get back with you. Thanks for your understanding and we will see you at the fairs!

Donna Krug is the Family & Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Contact her at 620-793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu.