4-H show educational, successful fundraiser for NYSCF

(Auburn, NY) — The coffers supporting the the New York State Cavy Fanciers-hosted 2011 national cavy specialty were fattened by over $400 thanks to their 4-H rabbit and cavy show fundraiser held in Auburn Feb. 20.

Members and exhibitors donated and refurbished ribbons and raffle items, and non-member friends of the NYSCF pitched in with judging, writing comments for exhibitors and other tasks.

"We couldn't have done it without the club members who came out, pitched in and made a success of the day—Jenny, Linda Wilbur, Suzette, Heather McLane, Pat Haefele, Brandy and Kayla, Karen Waite, and Shelley Manley," said NYSCF president Val Horning. "And thanks to our non-club friends who judged, wrote and worked all day—Derek Poole, Chas Hardin, Barb Hardin and Barb Kurzowski!"

Donated rosettes had previous dates and shows snipped out with colorful new ribbon added and flowers and other decorations added to the central circle. Horning praised the crafty club member who took on the task. "Jenny is an incarnation of Martha Stewart.  What she did for ribbons and with rosettes was really cute—and on the cheap! "

Other trophies were pale gold blankets embroidered with a log cabin and "Cabin Fever Show," crafted and donated by club member Linda Wilbur.

Show organizers agreed the rabbit entries were well-represented, with 19 different breeds of rabbits and a total of 80 entries of rabbits and cavies. "All the animals were nicely presented; clean and brushed, with their toenails clipped," noted Judge Karen Waite as she helped announce show winners. Best in show was a himalayan; reserve in show went to a Netherland dwaf and a spotted fuzzy lop won second reserve in show. Cavy best in show award went to a black White Crested, with a roan Teddy as reserve in show.

More than just a club fundraiser and a fun get-together, the show was a valuable educational event for parents and exhibitors alike. "The judges took the time to talk about the different breeds as they were judging the animals," noted NYSCF Treasurer Linda Wilbur. "It was more than just a show, it was an education for young people." The young participants also had a chance to question judges on matters of care, grooming and even what breed of rabbit or cavy was best for them.

Proceeds from the show will be used for hosting the American Cavy Breeders' 2011 National Cavy Specialty in Rochester N.Y., which will be hosted by the New York State Cavy Fanciers. # # #