A batch of slime, a live cat, a handmade dog bed and a model of a cow’s reproductive system became teaching tools as young 4-H members stepped in front of judges and audience members at the Ray County Fair.

The demonstrations were part of the 2026 Ray County Fair Demonstration and Public Speaking Contest, which gives youth an opportunity to share their knowledge and interests while developing communication, leadership and public speaking skills.

See Page 7 for more from the contest, including food demonstrations by 4-H members.

Lawson 4-H Club member Charlotte Schreiber demonstrated the combination of a few ingredients to create slime.

Schreiber said different types and sizes of glue can be used, along with shaving cream and an activator, such as contact solution. After measuring the glue and activator into a bowl, she began stirring the ingredients together, noting more activator or glue could be added if needed.

She noted food coloring or paint can be used to change the slime’s color befo…