By Matt de Simone
The Botetourt County FFA Alumni and Supporters hosted its annual Youth Ag Expo last Friday at Lord Botetourt High School, welcoming families and community members for an evening celebrating local agricultural education and youth achievement.
The event, which was open to the public, highlighted the talents, skills and dedication of local 4-H and FFA members from across Botetourt County.
Guests began the evening by visiting the annual silent auction, which featured items donated by local businesses. Proceeds from the auction supported youth agricultural education programs throughout the county.
Throughout the school hallways, attendees explored exhibits from community organizations that supported the FFA Alumni and Supporters and promoted youth involvement and leadership. Demonstrations and interactive activities allowed visitors of all ages to learn more about agriculture, education and service opportunities available in the community.
One of the evening’s highlights was an archery demonstration in the gym hosted by the 4-H Shooting Club. Club members demonstrated proper archery techniques and offered guidance to those interested in learning more about the sport.
In the cafeteria, guests enjoyed free hot dogs and desserts while visiting booths hosted by local youth organizations. All 10 Botetourt County 4-H groups and four FFA chapters were represented, offering hands-on activities and information about their programs. A “100 Years of Virginia FFA” exhibit was also on display, showcasing the history of FFA in the state and its roots in Botetourt County.
Visitors stopped by the agriculture shop to see live animals raised by local 4-H and FFA members as part of their agricultural education projects.
Later in the evening, attendees enjoyed the annual 4-H Share the Fun talent show, which featured performances by local 4-H members.
In the Junior Division, Lori Livick and Willow Shupe earned a blue ribbon and were named overall division champions for their combination act. Jordan Ruppel received a red ribbon for vocal performance. Melody Bowyer received a white ribbon for vocal performance, and Karter Prusak received a white ribbon for an instrumental performance.
In the Intermediate Division, Meara Knox, Blakely Whitson and Shea Whitson received a white ribbon for their tap-dancing performance.
In the Senior Division, Blake Arney earned a blue ribbon and was named overall champion for a vocal performance.
“Special thanks to the members of the 4-H Teen Club who ran the talent show this year,” said Tyler Painter, Botetourt County 4-H Extension agent. “We also had representatives from eight different clubs at exhibits in the cafeteria. Those clubs included Cooking, Dairy, Livestock, 4-H Honey, Horse and Pony, FRC Robotics, Shooting Education, and Teen Leadership.”
