By Matt de Simone
The 10th annual Botetourt County 4-H/FFA Youth Expo took place last Friday at Lord Botetourt High School in Daleville. Attendees had the opportunity to explore and engage with local youth involved in the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and 4-H programs.
The event featured a variety of activities, including interactive booths with club members, local livestock displays, archery demonstrations, and an exciting silent auction. Botetourt 4-H clubs and FFA members shared their knowledge of their respective clubs that included cooking, beekeeping, robotics, livestock care, horse handling, and shooting education.
The Youth Expo served as a fantastic opportunity to learn about FFA and 4-H programs, with each chapter and 4-H club setting up informational tables throughout the cafeteria. The silent auction, benefiting the 4-H program and FFA chapters through the 4-H and FFA Alumni Group, was a key fundraiser for the local youth groups.
Photos by Matt de Simone
One of the highlights of the expo was the 4-H Share-the-Fun competition, where junior, intermediate, and senior members showcased their talents. The competition was hosted by 4-H Leadership Club President Kylee Aaron, who introduced the audience to the student performers that included: Karter Prusak, Cortana Kelly Jedediah Divers, Alayna Chen, Melody Bowyer, Sophia Reiner, Caroline Stull, Teagan Kern, Rosalie Stull, Evan Mundy, Anna Radtke, and Autumn Sparks. The overall winners will compete in the Area competition later this year.
“Overall, it was a great show, and it’s always exciting to see our youth display their confidence performing in front of others,” 4-H Extension Agent Tyler Painter shared. “I would like to thank our judges, Zaida Cassell and Brittany Turman, as well as our 4-H Teen Club members, who assisted with various parts of the talent show. These members include Kylee Aaron, Kendall Aaron, Lexi Cassell, and Noah Patterson.”
Junior winners:
Overall – Teagan Kern (Eagle Rock)
2nd Place – Karter Prusak (Colonial)
3rd Place – Caroline Stull (Buchanan)
Intermediate winners:
Overall – Evan Mundy (CAMS)
2nd Place – Rosalie Stull (CAMS)
Senior winners:
Overall – Anna Radtke (LBHS)
2nd Place – Autumn Sparks (LBHS)
“Additionally, I would like to thank all our club leaders, volunteers, members, and parents for their support and for making this year’s Expo a tremendous success,” Painter continued. “An event like this would not be possible without their incredible participation. To the event organizers, thank you for providing this opportunity to showcase the youth in Botetourt County and their endeavors in the 4-H and FFA programs.”
