Samantha’s project was child development, but that wasn’t the only judging she went through Thursday.

“I’m doing gift wrapping, child development, photography, foods, cows and pigs,” said Samantha.

Like many 4-H’ers, Samantha comes from a family where 4-H is a tradition and judging week is a big deal.

“I take the week off of work for 4-H,” said Dave Morgan, patrolman for the Madison County Sheriff’s Department. “It’s a big deal in our family.”

His 9-year-old daughter, Cheyenne, came out of judging for photography with a huge grin on her face. “I got a blue ribbon,” she said, grinning.

Like Guy, though, Cheyenne said 4-H isn’t about ribbons.

“I like that I get to work with animals and have fun with my parents and make my stuff,” she said, adding she also shows swine. “I’ve learned responsibility and love making new friends. It’s just fun.”

With so much hard work going into projects, many of the 4-H’ers admitted they love fair week because it allows them to enjoy 4-H without any pressure.

“I like to see all the projects,” said Jonathan Huffman, 11. “I also like the food and seeing people.”

Although judging continues through this week, today is the opening of rides, food vendors, games, entertainment and games at the Madison County 4-H fairgrounds.

“All the activities for the community open (today),” said Leonhard. “All the projects that are judged will be on display, though, in the 4-H building.”

Leonhard said that although the rides and food bring a lot of people out, she encourages the community to take a look at all the hard work the youth have put into projects.

“They work so hard,” she said. “We have great youth in our county.”