MILLERSBURG, Ohio – Dennis, and Kathy Schlabach have been long-time quiet supporters of the Holmes County junior fair livestock auction, but they also wanted to do something to support the junior fair dairy exhibitors.

Last year, when the Holmes County junior fair dairy committee received a generous donation from the Schlabachs, the committee wanted to find a way to recognize the couple for their support. But they also wanted to find a way to introduce new exhibitors to the dairy program, especially since Kathy Schlabach is a former 4-H program assistant with the Holmes County 4-H program and is currently a member of the Holmes County Fair board.

“We want to encourage the members’ participation,” Schlabach said. “We support the other species. This is a good way to support the dairy program as well. We are happy to participate.”

Brandi Schlauch, president of the dairy committee, said the committee looked at several ideas before it decided to try a heifer giveaway program and bring new exhibitors into the department. The program is open to 4-H and FFA members who had never exhibited a dairy project.

To participate in the giveaway, members were required to write an essay, explaining why they wanted to participate in the program, how they would take care of the animal, and their plans to show the animal. Members also needed to share their plans for the project, whether they would continue the project again next year.

Once the idea was in place, Schlauch said the committee discussed various options on how to handle the project. The committee ultimately decided to issue vouchers and allow members to purchase their animals. This year the recipients were Reese Anderson and Julia Sprang.

Sprang had a successful year with her dairy project, winning beginner’s showmanship and exhibiting the Junior Champion Guernsey in the show.

“I thought it would be fun,” Sprang said. “I like cows. I was surprised when I won.”

Sprang is an eight-year member of the Lakeville Lakers 4-H Club where her projects have included Pygmy goats and market goats. 

Sprang said the experience has been educational. “I have enjoyed working with my calf. I am planning to take her again next year.”

Sprang encourages other exhibitors to take part in the program. “If you like working with cattle, it is worth doing. I am thankful to the dairy committee for the opportunity to take part in this program.”

Schlauch said thanks to a generous donation from Schlabachs, the program will continue again next year. For more information on the heifer giveway program visit the Holmes County Extension website at http://holmes.osu.edu