Farm Bureau sponsors annual event to educate youngsters
A group of Lynch Elementary School 3rd graders line up prior to entering the Eastern Michigan State Fairgrounds Thursday, Oct. 4.
IMLAY CITY — The Eastern Michigan State Fairgrounds was teeming with young people and farm animals on Thursday (Oct. 6) for the Lapeer County Farm Bureau’s annual Project RED (Rural Education Day).
More than 800 third-grade students from schools across Lapeer County were bused in to the fairgrounds to participate the event.
They were joined by dozens of parents, chaperones, volunteers and representatives from local agricultural groups and associations.
This year’s event was particularly meaningful for Project RED volunteer Adriana Richards, a North Branch High School senior who studies agriculture at the Lapeer County Ed-Tech Center.
“I’ve been doing this since 7th grade,” said Adriana. “I enjoy being here because I’m able learn more about our local agricultural community.
“I’m able to share the information I learn at this event with other young people. I think it’s important that we better understand and appreciate how and where our food comes from.
“Food doesn’t just magically appear on grocery shelves,” she said. “There are a lot of things that have to happen to get to our food tables.”
Participating parents and chaperones agreed that Project Red is a unique learning experience for people of all ages.
“I think all of us get a lot out of taking part in this program,” added Carole, a Lapeer County Master Gardener.
Tom Wearing started at the Tri-City Times in 1989, covering the Village of Capac as a beat reporter. He later served stints as assistant editor and editor. Today, he covers Imlay City and Almont as a staff writer. He enjoys music and plays drums and sings with various musical groups in the Detroit Metropolitan area.
