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The Indiana State Fair is always a cause for celebration, but, this year, the event became a 12-day birthday party as Indiana 4-H commemorated its centennial. The icing on the cake was the $7.5 million renovation of the 4-H Education Complex, which was rededicated Aug. 11, opening day of the fair.
“Renovation of the 4-H Exhibit Hall and Boys' Dormitory provides prime exhibit space for the thousands of projects displayed at the fair,” says Andy Klotz, public relations director for the state fair. “Demonstrations and ‘Share the Fun' activities also moved back to the complex.”
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After undergoing a $7.5 million renovation, the 4-H Education Complex was rededicated at the Indiana State Fair. Indiana Gov. Joe Kernan offered his congratulations on the successful completion of the project. (Photo by Whitney Copeland) |
The buildings, which were constructed in 1939, have shown signs of age for many years. In 1990, the Boys' and Girls' dormitories were closed and condemned. The much-needed renovation is part of Fairgrounds 2000, the Indiana State Fairgrounds Commission's plan to invest $40 million in renovations to facilities and grounds.
Updates in the Boys' Dormitory, now called Centennial Hall, and the 4-H Exhibit Hall include heating and air conditioning systems, new windows and lighting, high-speed Internet connections, and state-of-the-art interactive learning spaces.
“Centennial Hall features a working kitchen, sewing workshop, wood shop and computer lab,” says Klotz. “Not only do you see exhibits on shelves, you also see hands-on activities taking place.”
New landscaping, sidewalks and a fountain enhance the lawn of the complex, which has been renamed Celebration Park. The fountain has two nine-and-a-half foot identity markers with the 4-H motto etched on them, signifying the state fair's commitment to Indiana 4-H.
As part of the celebration, birthday cake was served in the Exhibit Hall every afternoon during the fair. In addition, 4-H members, leaders and alumni gave tours of the buildings and helped staff the learning stations.
Construction on the 4-H Exhibit Hall and Boys' Dormitory began in September 2003. The state fair would also like to renovate the Girls' Dormitory if it receives financing for the project. “The buildings also permit us to do some youth programming, now that they are up to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and environmental code,” says Carl Broady, Purdue Extension specialist for 4-H Youth. “The 4-H complex will put a new face on the 4-H program,” he says. “People have looked at the decaying buildings over the years, and it has given the public the impression that 4-H is dying. The renovated buildings make 4-H members feel proud to have their exhibits on display there.”
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