UPDATE: The Shealer family is in full preparation mode as the Schuylkill County Fair approaches, creating a buzz at Evergreen Acres Tree Farm in West Brunswick Township. With only days to go, excitement is palpable as siblings Chloe (15), Cooper (12), and Carter (8) dive into their fair preparations.
Chloe is meticulously grooming Whiskey, her impressive 1,400-pound Angus steer, while Cooper hoses down his Brown Swiss dairy calf. The siblings are also working on feeding schedules for their hefty hogs, Fireball and Malibu, as they aim for blue ribbons in the competitive 4-H club contest. The pressure is on, as weight limits mean even the pigs must occasionally go on diets!
Despite being unable to compete this year due to age restrictions, Carter is eagerly planning for the unofficial game of Manhunt, a cherished tradition of fair week. He is already scouting potential hiding spots around the farm, showcasing his excitement for the upcoming festivities.
Amid this whirlwind of activity, parents Paul and Pam Shealer reflect on their own fair experiences from decades past. The couple, both seasoned 4-H competitors, are now instilling the same values of hard work and responsibility in their children. Paul recalls, “It’s a good learning experience when you care for animals as infants and see them grow into adults.”
This year, Chloe is particularly proud of Whiskey. Having gained nearly 800 pounds since arriving at the farm last October, she acknowledges the challenge of managing such a large animal. “It’s a lot more responsibility,” she admits.
Pam, who has attended county fairs since infancy, observes her kids growing in confidence, just as she did. “Each year, they learn something new,” she notes, highlighting the importance of these formative experiences.
As the fair draws near, the Shealer family is not only preparing for competition but also cherishing the traditions that bind them together. The upcoming fair serves as a gathering place for families, fostering connections that span generations. “Our kids will be competing with kids whose parents we competed with when we were kids,” Pam adds.
With the Schuylkill County Fair just around the corner, the Shealers exemplify the spirit of community and tradition that makes these events so special. The excitement is building, and the competition promises to be fierce. Stay tuned for updates as the fair kicks off on July 30, 2025, where the Shealer family’s hard work will be on full display!