WAPAKONETA, Ohio (WLIO) — The Auglaize County Fair is expanding opportunities for people of all abilities to experience the tradition of 4-H.
The fair hosted its first-ever "Shine in the Showring," giving people with disabilities, from second grade through adulthood, the opportunity to experience showing livestock. With the help of Junior Fair mentors, 12 participants showed pigs, sheep, cattle and chickens while introducing their animals to the crowd. Each participant also received a medal in recognition of their efforts. Organizers said the goal is to ensure people of all abilities have the chance to experience a tradition many young exhibitors enjoy each year.
"I really just created this show because I have an older sister with Down Syndrome and she got the opportunity to show in 4-H show goats for nine years. And just being able to see her in the ring with that smile really shows me it is important to get these kids out there to show everybody that they can do the same thing we can and sometimes even do better. It's just going to show that Ag is fun, Ag is for everyone and just include everyone in the fair because our fair is truly the family fair and it's great," said Logan Henschen, Junior Fair Board member.
Organizers hope to make "Shine in the Showring" an annual event at the Auglaize County Fair.
