Scooping up memories at the fair

BLOOMINGTON – Diana Ropp and George Schaffer scooped up more than ice cream during a recent afternoon at the McLean County Fair.

The pair shared several memories during their 20-plus years volunteering at an ice cream sundae booth sponsored by the Timeless Clovers 4-H Club, which is made up of McLean County 4-H alumni.

“You get a very affordable sundae then you get a variety of topping choices,” Ropp explained.

Schaffer joined the alumni association when he retired from his job. He has enjoyed watching the different kids involved with 4-H over the years.

“It’s amazing to see from one year to the next how the kids grow,” he said.

Schaffer was a 4-H’er himself for 10 years before joining the group known as Rural Youth. Then his gets eventually became involved. He says it has been an enjoyable experience or else he wouldn’t be doing it.

Ropp admits volunteerism gets in your blood.

“We’re just all passionate about the alumni group.”

The Timeless Clovers sponsors kids if they wish to attend Illini Summer Academies and donates a significant amount of money to the fair showcase. The group also helps send kids to 4-H camp.

“We just try to help the fair and the kids have a great experience,” added Ropp.