(Chelsea Update would like to thank Afua S. Osei-Bonsu for the information in this story.)
This year, the Washtenaw County fair and learning showcase was held virtually due to COVID-19.
Youth exhibitors were able to submit pictures and videos of their projects (both still and animal projects) and then judges logged in to “online fair” to judge the exhibits and provide feedback.
When COVID-19 hit, many people were unsure of what to expect. With the various Executive Orders in the spring and Michigan State University’s announcement of the cancellation of all in-person events through Sept. 1, many 4-H youths across Michigan were unsure of what that meant for their fairs.
When Michigan State University Extension announced their partnership with the online system, Fair Entry, we were excited that in Washtenaw County we would still be able to hold some type of 4H event allowing our members the opportunity to learn, to develop and improve their skills, and to showcase their hardwork and talents.
Being in a virtual format, the layout was very different from the typical “fair week.”
Exhibitors were able to submit pictures and videos of their projects (both still and animal projects) and then judges logged in to our online fair in order to judge to exhibits and provide feedback.
There were 108 exhibitors, 587 entries — 325 entries related to animals and 262 still exhibits — 303 buyers registered for the auction.
If you are interested in taking a look at the various project submitted this year, check out the fair results webpage: https://fairentry.com/Fair/Results/14762
Below are the grand champions.
Grand Champion Cow: Sofia Rose
Grand Champion Feeder: Amaya Buter
Grand Champion Beef: Adyson Naebeck
Grand Champion Sheep: Nicholas Berenson
Grand Champion Pair of Sheep: Raiden Kipfmiller
Grand Champion Goat: Hannah Berenson
Grand Champion Hog: Karissa Rasch
Grand Champion Pair of Hogs: Jack Dooley
Grand Champion Rabbit: William Rogers
Many thanks to MSU Extension and others who made this virtual event possible for the young people who have worked hard with their animals and other exhibits. The exhibitors can take pride in their involvement this year just as much as any other year.