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| In today's society where it is ever difficult to keep the attention of teens, the Young Explorers 4-H Club, Gobles, may have a crashing solution. In 2004, the Young Explorers "Blue Collar Division" began a new project. |
| Members completed the first of many upcoming demolition derby cars. The car was painted green with large 4-H clovers and it's official number was "04-H". The Cadillac, parts, and supplies were donated by parents, junkyards, and local retailers. |
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Renovation began with a complete removal of interior, windows, and bumpers. Reconstruction (before destruction) included an engine tune-up, welded doors, snow tires, and a custom paint job, all of which was completed by 4-H youth. |
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| In addition to the car being entered in the demolition derby, youth also received awards in 4-H project areas, including welding, automotive, and painting -- all blue ribbons. |  |
| Destruction, construction, and entry of the demo derby cars is under the direction of Young Explorers 4-H Automotive and Welding Leader Steve Massey. Parent assistant leaders included Ken Howard, Grant VanHeukelum, Jack Burke, and Pete Smith. |
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| Mazz says, "While the project is open to all teens in the Young Explorers, boys and girls, it's important to get more teen boys involved in 4-H. This project gives them an opportunity to learn job skills while having fun. We hope that our project will challenge other 4-H clubs to build their own demolition cars, increasing teen participation, and giving the Young Explorers 4-H competition next year." |
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