WOODSTOCK — With his signature bib overalls, cowboy hat and commanding presence, Billy Bushong has been a beloved fixture at the Shenandoah County Fair for more than 60 years.

“They haven’t run me off yet,” said the 81-year-old with a chuckle, looking out at the fairgrounds. “Someone has to keep everyone in line — best be me.”

Bushong went from showing dairy cattle as a member of 4-H while in high school to volunteering after graduation.

“I’ve got a big interest in kids,” he said. “I feel that 4-H does more for them than the school system; it gives kids something to work with. They teach them public speaking, the whole works.”

Bushong, who quickly added that school is important, firmly believes that 4-H and FFA (Future Farmers of America) are vital to the success of today's youth, desc

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