Agenda - 06-04-2013 - 4b - Laserfiche WebLink

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11 In addition to these existing events, the Orange County Cooperative Extension office has been exploring the concept of a festival (tentatively named LocalFest) similar to the one held in September 2003 as part of the County's 250th anniversary. This concept would be oriented around local foods, with a sustainability theme. Staff has also discussed ideas of other possible local events and festivals. IV. Related Existing Events and Ventures As the Board considers the possibility of a county fair, there are several local festivals and related events that may provide context for this discussion. Since this is a preliminary exploration, none of the following organizations or event organizers have been contacted regarding a potential county fair exploration to date. Some may have a strong interest in any future plans toward this end. The following is a partial list of these events. Annual Central Piedmont Junior Livestock Show /Sale The 68th annual Central Piedmont Junior Livestock Show and Sale was recently held on April 10 -11. The tradition of this event began in April 1946 in Durham, and has continued. This year marked the 27th year that the show was held at the Central Carolina Holstein Association Barn in the Orange Grove community of Bingham Township. The event is open to 4 -H and FFA youth ages five to 18 in Alamance, Caswell, Chatham, Durham, Granville, Guilford, Orange, Person, Wake, and Randolph Counties. This year, Orange County had 35 4 -H and FFA youth participants showing 58 animals. A Steering Committee consisting of members of the local farm community provides the organization for this event. Approximately 25 sponsors have been identified and they can make tax deductible donations to the show via the NCSU Ag Foundation which is a registered 501.3c organization. NC Cooperative Extension Agents and Vocational Agriculture Teachers work with the youth to give advice on raising and showing animals. Approximately 150 youth show several different types of animals in this show including hogs, sheep, goats, and beef cattle. The youth participants keep records on their show animals and present a record book for judging as part of the requirements for the show. This show also has a sale component to it where the youth can choose to sell their market (hogs, Iambs, goats or steers) show animals concluding the show on the second day. Businesses and individuals bid on the animals to show their support for all the hard work that the youth have put into raising these animals.