Teller County Fair starts Saturday

A tribute to Teller County’s agricultural roots, the county fair is a showcase for 4-H kids who work all year for an event that recognizes commitment, honor and leadership.

“The fair is the Super Bowl for 4-H in Teller County,” said Darian Founds, the county’s Colorado State University Extension Director, speaking during the commissioners’ meeting June 25. “There are more than 100 projects available for 4-H kids.”

Founds was accompanied by dozens of 4-H students, who spoke from the podium about characteristics they developed over the years, including how to make smart financial decisions.

“You kids are respectful, honorable; I give a lot of credit to your parents that you are an example to the rest of the community,” said Commissioner Dan Williams.

As word spreads among families about 4-H projects, membership has increased by 22%, Williams said. “It’s an honor to support you,” he added.  

Williams highlighted the role of Terry and Randy Snare, part of a multigenerational family and key to the vitality of the 4-H program in Teller County. For instance, the Snares’ daughter Alana Crawford leads the junior livestock division.

“We really appreciate what you are doing for the fairgrounds; it’s been a long time coming,” said Terry Snare. “Thank you for supporting my kids. They’re all my kids, I don’t care what their last name is, they’re my kids and I really appreciate your support.”

Williams responded.

“The three of us made a conscious decision to not just support our youth but to support 4-H,” he said. “I’m just thrilled. With all the negatives, bad weather, drought, war; this just makes my whole year. The 22% increase in membership is exactly what we want.”

A tour of the fairgrounds with Founds in Cripple Creek reveals an updated facility with new bleachers, grandstands and horse barn.

“Our horse projects have doubled in size, with kids competing in showmanship, English and Western riding, along with barrels and poles competitions,” Founds said.

Among the 100 projects are the ones that have the kids raising sheep, goats, swine and cows and then finally giving them for sale during the fair.

Along with the tour, Founds lists some of the advantages of 4-H, such as scholarships, funded by donations, along with opportunities to participate in the National Western Stock Show in Denver, a local farm tour, and the CSU Spur field trip.

For now, however, the students are preparing for opening day, July 25, from cleaning stalls and bathrooms to getting their animals ready for showing.

The Teller County Association of Fairs and Shows, a nonprofit organization, presents the fair: Celebrating 250 Years of American Grit. The fair features military appreciation night July 25. For information and a schedule check: https://tcafas.org.