First Posted: 9/30/2009

Normally, this column deals only with education including educational programs. Todays column, though, will deviate somewhat from that because of something that gets underway Thursday that deals with a combination of education and entertainment.
I dont believe that anyone ever said that education couldnt be enhanced by the use of entertainment. Im referring in this case to the Robeson Regional Agricultural Fair which gets underway Thursday at the fairgrounds on N.C. 41 in Lumberton.
With exhibits including all manner of animals and fowl, the fair gives youngsters of all ages the opportunity to get up close to domesticated animals through the petting farm. The 4-H clubs comprised of school-aged boys and girls present poultry and turkey shows along with shows for lamb, goats, heifers, steers and rabbits.
Through judging results, they discover what the judges are looking for by studying the winners. They learn what to concentrate on while preparing their animals or birds for future competition.
One of the contests that draws a great deal of attention is the chain saw cutting contest. This competition points out two important things about using a chain saw. One is to understand the skill required to rank high among contestants and the other is see the need for caution in dealing with a piece of equipment that could cause serious injury if mishandled.
For students who have artistic talent, there is the opportunity to compete for prizes in various categories such as acrylics or oils, watercolors, drawings, graphic designs and also photography. They compete in these categories against other students who are also younger than 18.
One of the most popular competitions for both students and the general public is the cheerleading contests. Winners here are decided in three divisions: middle school, junior varsity and varsity. There is also cheerleading competition for younger students including fifth- and sixth-grade cheerleading teams.
With all of this going on, considering what young visitors can gain from attending the fair, there definitely is an educational aspect to the event for children of all ages. Of course, there will be the opportunity for all youngsters to have fun at the fair but they will not lack for educational opportunities also.
Be sure and take in as many of these exhibits with your children as you can before the fair ends on Oct. 10.