The Kids Are Alright

’Tis the season … no, not that season. That one has passed. That’s the one where the kids are nestled all snug in their beds. I’m talking about Youth Fair season, when those kids are not nestled in their beds, but they are out in force showing up and showing off their skills.

You never have to go far to hear criticism of today’s younger generations. You’ll hear claims that they always have their heads buried in their phones, or they act entitled, or that they would readily choose an Xbox over the sandbox. For anyone who believes these generalizations, I have a challenge for you: Attend the Polk County Youth Fair, and I promise your opinion will change.

As I said, ’tis the season for our youth in ag to be on full display. It’s a time of:

  • Teamwork 
  • Support 
  • Leadership
  • Encouragement
  • Resilience
  • Tough lessons
  • Squeals of delight
  • Bittersweet tears
  • Dog-tired but proud parents
  • Determination
  • Camaraderie
  • No excuses; and
  • Grit

If any part of you needs to know the future of agriculture is in good hands and that the hearts of our kids are in the right place, the Polk Youth Fair is the place to be this month.

For a schedule and the latest information, go to http://www.pcyf.net and make sure to check out our Youth Fair feature on page 8.

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