Written by Dr. Nancy Vigil
I treasure several mental snapshots from the 2013 DuPage County Fair. I smile to think of the twin kids (baby goats) curled up together in the warm sun or the screaming protests of a six month old barrow (male pig) getting his first shower before being judged. But, my favorite picture is of my colleague, Dr. Edward Miner, gently placing a bunny in the arms of a young fair visitor so she could experience the delight of holding the soft creature.
For the last three years, Dr. Miner has worked as one of the DuPage County Fair's veterinarians. A veteran dairy farmer from upstate New York, he enjoys the opportunity to revisit his roots and share his expertise. As Fair veterinarian, Dr. Miner checks health papers on all the animal entries. He also walks through each barn several times a day watching for any signs of illness among the various breeds of cows, sheep, goats, pigs, rabbits, and chickens on exhibit. In addition, he is available for any medical emergencies that may arise.
Dr. Miner is one of many who help make it possible for children and teenagers in 4-H to show their animal exhibits. These exhibits give the public a chance to see farm animals up close and to learn about the agricultural industry and animal husbandry.
4-H is an organization with rural origins that promotes personal development, citizenship, and innovation in agriculture and technology. It's symbol is the four leaf clover with an "H" on each petal. The four "H"s that each club member must know are Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. The club has 65 million members and is overseen by the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture.
One in seven adults is a former 4-H member. Alumni include: former President Jimmy Carter, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Johnny Cash, Reba McIntyre, Julia Roberts, Faith Hill, David Letterman, and Orville Redenbacher.
Proud former 4-H members from Warrenville Grove Animal Hospital include Dr. Edward Miner, Dr. Nancy Vigil, Karen Humecke, and Aileen Miner.
