The Caldwell County FFA and 4-H programs both benefited from the Petting Zoo held during this year’s Black Patch Festival.
James Alan Boone and Caldwell County Farm Bureau present the petting zoo each year. Their goal is to allow children a chance to see and touch live animals plus raise funds to benefit both organizations.
There is no charge for anyone to enter the area with the animals but they do set up a place to accept donations. At the conclusion of the annual zoo, the donations are counted and divided equally among the two youth groups.
In addition to the split of the funds, the Princeton Optimist Club matches part of the donation. The Optimist Club knows the petting zoo is an important part of Black Patch and wants to join Boone in supporting these two youth groups. He feels this is a way he can give back to the community and also help two clubs that mean a lot to him.
Boone shared that all the animals belong to him and are part of his farming program.
The local FFA Chapter was on hand for the petting zoo and helps operate it plus has their own petal tractor pull next to the zoo. FFA Advisor Magen Woods appreciates Boone and Farm Bureau for their support.
Caldwell County 4-H Agent Rhonda Jewell was out of town with another 4-H group during the petting zoo, but is thankful for the donation. She said the money would be used for items needed for the program.
This year there was $783 collected and split between the two, with the Optimist Club giving an additional $400 to each club. The checks were presented Thursday night at the Caldwell County Farm Bureau meeting in their office on U.S. Highway 62 West.
