Colton’s OCYLP Fair Adventure
For 12-year-old Colton, the Otsego County Youth Livestock Program (OCYLP) is more than just raising animals — it’s about hard work, new experiences, and having a lot of fun along the way.
This year, Colton juggled two animals: his lamb, Vinny (named after Vin Diesel from Fast & Furious), and his pig, Ivy. When Ivy first joined the family in March, she weighed only 65 pounds. By the time the fair rolled around, she had grown to 265 pounds — thanks to months of careful feeding, daily care, and training. Colton even brushed and oiled her skin regularly to make sure she was show-ready. The work wasn’t always easy, especially during the ice storm that made caring for Ivy a challenge, but Colton took it in stride.
The name “Ivy” wasn’t chosen at random. It was a family idea tied to their sponsor, with “Ivy” standing for “IV,” an important part of infusion care. The name stuck — and turned out to be a perfect fit for the spirited pig.
But Colton’s fair days weren’t spent only in the barn. He also pitched in with the horse show, helped with barn duty to keep animals and visitors safe, and found time to enjoy other parts of the fair. His personal favorite this year? The bird exhibit — a spot he loved visiting whenever he wasn’t busy with his own animals.
Colton has been part of OCYLP for four years, starting in the novice class before moving up to junior. When he turns 15, he’ll join the senior class and can keep participating until he graduates high school. It’s an experience that teaches responsibility and discipline while also building friendships and memories.
As for the future, Colton has big plans for the money he raises through the sale of his animals. College or trade school savings come first, but he’s also saving for a car, his next round of animals, and — in true 12-year-old fashion — some fishing gear and a few video games.
Show day this year took place on August 19th. Colton proudly showed Ivy in the ring. While she didn’t place, he said she was “high spirited and sassy” — and the experience was still a highlight of his fair week.
At Specialty Infusion Center, we love seeing programs like OCYLP thrive because they reflect the same values we hold close: commitment, responsibility, and community. Supporting local youth like Colton isn’t just about fair season — it’s about investing in the future of our neighbors. As a local center, we’re proud to be connected to families right here in our community and to celebrate the hard work that makes events like the county fair so special.
A big shout-out to Colton and his family — especially his mom, one of our amazing infusion nurses at Specialty Infusion Center. We’re proud to cheer him on, both in the barn and beyond!