January 30, 2006
4-H TO CLOWN AROUND AT 2006 FARM SHOW
With the Ottawa Valley Farm Show landing once again in Spring Break for many Ontario schools, what better way to welcome young farmers of the future than with colourful clowns cruising the corridors.

Decked out in full circus-style regalia, the clowns are 4-H members in disguise as the Ottawa Valley Seed Growers Association, sponsors of the farm show set for March 14, 15 and 16 at Lansdowne Park, raise the profile of 4-H at the 79-year-old event. 

“We’ve always had a good 4-H presence at the show,” said OVSGA president Keith Matthie. “But we couldn’t pass up a chance to get the youngsters even more involved and, at the same time, contribute some money to 4-H in return for the clown service.”

The young people who’ll participate are members of the 4-H Clown Club under the direction of Barb Smith of Osgoode: “It has been a popular program and the kids have taken part in a number of events,” Smith said, adding they were excited about being featured at the farm show.

Five young club members will tour the show site,  stopping to briefly entertain visiting children.  As part of the 4-H display on the Civic Centre Concourse, the club will operate a stand offering face painting and balloon animals.

“It’s a great fit,” said OVFS General Manager Tom Van Dusen. “It’s another way to support 4-H while providing an exciting attraction.”

Van Dusen pointed out that, in recent years, the show has almost always landed at Spring Break, causing some parents to think twice before attending. However, most see it as an educational opportunity and come with their children.

“We remind parents that children are invited to the show. They’ll learn a lot about farming and rural living and be entertained at the same time. And admission is free for children under 12.”

This year’s show is shaping up as another sold-out success, with more than 300 exhibitors, making the OVFS the largest event of its kind in Ontario east of Toronto.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Tom Van Dusen, GM,  613-445-3407