4-H: Lifeblood of the fair

The community and culture of North Idaho would not be the same without 4-H. Losing the Extension office will affect more than predicted.

It has been suggested the kids of 4-H can simply join the Kroc Center for their activities, instead of 4-H. I have been a member of the Kroc, it is a great place for physical fitness, sports and some art but does it teach kids how to be responsible and care for a living animal? To raise it to sell in the market, learn about costs and profit?

4-H isn't all about animals, so many life skills are covered with hands on activities in sewing, cooking, astronomy, entomology, mechanics, shooting sports, ceramics, photography and heritage crafts. 4-H also teaches leadership, public speaking, government, money management and opens doors to what college has to offer, career placement and scholarships.

My children are third generation 4-Hers in Kootenai County. Without the opportunity to explore our interests, make life friends and give back to the community; I feel the abilities to obtain our career goals and become optimal members of society would be near impossible!

I hope before final budget decisions are made that a hard look is made to what 4-H does for the local community, the state of Idaho and nation. 4-H is more than 100 years old, near that in North Idaho, lets keep it going! Besides, what would the fair be without 4-H? Just another carnival.

ELENA NELSON

Athol