To the Editor,
4-H runs deep in our family. We believe wholeheartedly in the four H’s: Head, Heart, Hands, and Health and the values they represent. For us, 4-H is more than just a program, it’s a family tradition. I was a 4-H member myself, followed by my children, and now my grandchildren are proudly carrying on that legacy. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to support the program in many ways, including serving on the Nance County 4-H Council. I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact it has on young people and our community.
As a long-time supporter of the Nance County 4-H program, I feel compelled to respond to the recent letter published by a former member of the Nance County Ag Society. While I appreciate the time and effort that Ag Society members contribute to organizing the county fair, there are a few points that deserve clarification particularly as they relate to 4-H and the division of the fair.
The letter cited over $50,000 in investments made “for 4-H,” referencing improvements to the show barn and other facilities. However, it’s important to understand that these were capital improvements funded through allocations from Nance County, not money the Ag Society personally donated or chose to spend specifically for 4-H. These funds were set aside for fairground maintenance and upgrades. While the improvements do benefit 4-H youth, they were not special acts of generosity toward the program, but county-supported infrastructure projects meant to serve all fairground users. Additionally, a significant portion of the funding for the “Big Ass Fans” installed in the livestock barn came from a private outside donor, not the Ag Society itself.
While entertainment additions like the carnival, bull riding, and Figure 8 racing may appeal to many, they have also contributed to the division of the fair creating challenges and disrupting a long-standing tradition that once brought the entire community together around a common purpose: supporting and celebrating our youth. It’s also worth noting that the arena on the fairgrounds was built by the hardworking hands and generous donations of local farmers, ranchers, and community members who believed in creating a space for youth and agriculture to thrive.
What was once a unified fair has become a split experience, and with that, a sense of togetherness has been lost. For many families, the fair is more than just an event. It’s a meaningful tradition built on pride, hard work, and a strong sense of community. For 4Hers, fair week is the culmination of a year’s worth of learning and dedication to showcase their efforts and live out the values that define 4-H: leadership, responsibility, and service.
At the Ag Society meeting held on Thursday, August 21, 2025, a vote was taken to bring the two events, the traditional 4-H fair and the Ag Society’s carnival-centered event back together. I believe the vote was 4 in favor, 2 opposed, with Interim President abstaining. While this step could offer a path toward renewed collaboration, it’s important to note that the decision was made solely by the Nance County Ag Society. True collaboration must go both ways and it must be built on mutual respect and understanding, not assumptions or public criticism. I believe the 4-H Council will be fully committed to working together to create a successful and inclusive event for everyone in the community.
Unfortunately, many in the community have voiced sentiments that dismiss or diminish 4-H’s role. Comments such as, “Ag Society should keep their dates and continue as before. 4-H Council can fundraise and have their own dates and entertainment,” or “I still feel like 4-H should try the earlier date just ONCE with the carnival and see,” overlook the very real challenges an earlier fair date would create for 4-H families.
If 4-H were required to move to an earlier date, such as late June, it would disrupt core components of the program.
Youth are still actively participating in summer sports like baseball and softball at that time. Horticulture, floriculture and other static exhibits would likely not be ready for judging, and livestock projects may not reach appropriate weights or development stages for exhibition.
For market animal projects in particular, this could result in youth having to purchase and raise two separate animals, one for the county fair in June and another to meet State Fair timelines in late August. This isn’t just a matter of timing, it’s a matter of added financial burden and unrealistic expectations for families who are already investing time and resources into year-round learning.
It’s disheartening to see 4-H cast aside in community conversations. The program is not just about ribbons and projects, it is a leadership-building, skill-developing, community-strengthening experience that supports our youth year-round. The fair is their time to showcase that work. When it’s split or pushed into an unsuitable timeframe, it tells them their efforts are less valuable than entertainment.
This letter is not written in opposition to the carnival or the enjoyment it brings. But it is written as a reminder that 4-H is the heart of what the county fair has always been about: families, agriculture, learning, and community. There is still time to come together, listen, and find a way to unite these events without sacrificing the quality or purpose of either. But that can only happen with mutual respect, honest dialogue, and informed decisions.
Sincerely,
Kenny Boryca
Fullerton
A Concerned Nance County Resident