While the 4-H is responsible for a number of events enjoyed by many, it was the supporters of their organization that make those events possible who were in the spotlight Monday when the 4-H Club held their annual banquet.

The dinner’s purpose is simple but important, according to event organizer Melissa Thimesch.

“To thank supporters for their support and participation in 4-H programs,” she said.

Planning for the event begins several months before it is actually held. The format for the dinner, which has been held for several years, has remained the same: hamburgers, with covered dishes brought by attending families. That format remains for good reason, as it is popular amongst the 4-Hers. The varying size of families that attend can make planning for total attendance somewhat tricky, but Thimesch and the others who make up the planning committee leave the margin wide, with accommodations for 250 to 500 attendees.

Attendees sign-up as they come in, which, besides keeping records, serves another purpose, with a variety of door prizes awarded near the end of the dinner. The prizes, contributed by the various 4-H clubs that meet for the event, are traditionally baskets with a theme. Baskets given away at the dinner included such themes as a “chocolate lovers” and “movie night” basket.

The event wouldn’t remain a success were it not for the support of those who’ve continued, which has in turn served to strengthen turnout over the years.

Alice Farmer has been attending the dinner for years and plans to keep coming for many more.

“The 4-H is a wonderful group,” she said. “We’ve come for a good many years and have always enjoyed it.”

Her husband Ted Farmer particularly enjoys the opportunities for fellowship at the event.

“I like getting to see the people that come,” he said. “I get a chance to run into old friends here and get to catch up. It’s a great experience.”

Dave Corbin also enjoys the event, as does his family.

“I’ve always been a supporter of the fair,” he said. “I have kids, grandkids and more grandkids in 4-H. It’s just a great organization, and me and my family are glad to be a part of it.”

The adults aren’t the only ones who enjoy the event, however, as the youth presence at the event Monday was strong as well. Ethan Eisenbarth of Cassoday is one among that number.

“I’m a 4-Her so I had to come and help, but I enjoy the friends and family, so it’s a lot of fun,” he said.

Thimesch said the event gets stronger every year and the 4-H is happy to keep hosting it.

“We always want to thank people for helping us out in all the ways they do that,” she said.