~ Submitted by Judy Meggitt Elle and I participated in the Snohomish County Fair 4-H Blindfold Competition on Saturday September 4. There were five 4H participants and only two participants guessed that Elle is a Briard. The kids did an amazing job. It is really hard to be blindfolded and idnitify breeds from just touch. All the kids zeroed in on the ears. One guessed bearded collie and one guessed giant schnauzer in addition to one “I don’t know.” There was an assortment of about 14 different dogs for the kids to identify. Some big, some small, some well known and some obscure. The outcome was very close between two Seniors, a 4H boy and a girl. Everyone got big ribbons for participating and the top three got large trophies.
This is the last year for the old dog barn at the fairgrounds. They are constructing a new building which will house dogs, rabbits, chickens and other foul. I cannot imagine that plan will work out real well.
On Friday night, I also attended the memorial service for Beryl Epling who originated the dog barn idea, construction, and the 4H dog program in Snohomish County. Many stories were told about Beryl and the 4H kids through the years, mostly she came into play when someone got into trouble. There were several laughs and a few tears. The weekend brought back many memories of the 10 years I was a 4H leader for a dog program. I got to reconnect with several young and old 4H friends.
The 4H dog program takes in donations of old trophies in which leaders refurbish and use for dog trophies during fair. The kids love earning one of the big trophies, they are very proud of their achievements.
