As the calendar turns to August we wonder where the summer has gone. Usually at this time of year members of the 4-H and FFA clubs are busy finalizing their project books and packing up supplies for the Butler Farm Show. Unfortunately not this year. The pandemic has made many changes in our lives and the loss of the Farm Show is one of them. A special project showcase is being planned by the Butler County Penn State Extension Office, but it will not be the same as the week filled with shows, demonstrations, exhibits of almost everything possible and fun for all involved.

The highlight of the week for those with livestock market projects is the annual Butler County Jr. Livestock Sale. As their animals are judged throughout the week, club members then have the opportunity to sell two of their projects at the sale on Thursday evening. The livestock barn turns into a hub of activity from early morning as things are set up until late into the night when the auctioneer gives up his last “sold” on the final animal. The Livestock Sale Committee and the Farm Show Board made every attempt to put on some type of auction this year, but there were too many factors which did not allow it to happen. A Facebook page (Butler youth livestock) was set up where members could share photos and information on their projects in the hopes of finding buyers for them. Some have been sold but others are still available. Many of our past generous buyers have purchased animals through this site or have contacted members directly. And we are very grateful for each and every one of you!

Two charity animals were raised by 4-H clubs this year to benefit local charities. The charity goat is still available for purchase and can be viewed on the Facebook page. The proceeds will benefit St. Vincent DePaul Society of Butler. The charity hog was purchased by Amerikohl Mining, Inc. with the proceeds benefiting Pine Valley Camp in Ellwood City, PA. The hog will join 8 other hogs along with 7 steers purchased by Amerikohl that will be donated to St. Vincent DePaul Society of Butler to help those in need.

I encourage all of you to check out the Facebook page or contact the Butler County Penn State Extension Office or any sale committee member to find out how to purchase one of the livestock projects still available. This is a great opportunity to help support the youth in 4-H & FFA and fill your freezer with quality local meat. And let’s all look forward to August 9-14, 2021 when we see each other once again at the Farm Show!