Local 4-Her�s participate in 4-H Livestock Judging Contest

The Southeast regional 4-H Livestock Judging contest was held on April 4. There were 20 4-H youth competing representing three counties � Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, and Perry. It was held in conjunction with the District FFA contest at Flickerwood Arena, Jackson.

Working in partnership with staff and students from Southeast Missouri State University Agriculture Department, the contestants were provided an opportunity to develop and hone their judging skills.

Youth involved with the livestock judging program develop key life skills to aid in their future career success. �Through involvement in a 4-H judging team members must make rapid, logical decisions and defend their decisions via oral reasons. Therefore, students improve their ability for critical thinking and accurate communication. In addition, students become organized and self-disciplined, learn to accept criticism, develop self-confidence and become leaders,� said Shane Potter, former MU Extension 4-H youth development state specialist.

The contest included two age divisions: Junior for ages 8 � 13 and Senior for ages 14 � 18. The top four competitors for each age division qualify to compete at the state 4-H Livestock Judging contest at the University of Missouri-Columbia campus on September 8. Fifth place serves as an alternate to the team.

From Cape Girardeau County, 1st place in the junior division was Charlotte Cook, followed by Josey Meier, Blake Aufdenberg, Dylan Aufdenberg, and Dylan Jansen. Also participating were Gracyn Meier, Autumn McBryde, Hunter Aufdenberg, Lane McBryde, Shane Jansen, and Karlee Barron. In the Senior division, Levi Jansen was 1st and Amber Barron 2nd.

From Bollinger County, 1st in the junior division was Michael Wolfe and 1st in the senior division was Kyleigh Wolfe.

From Perry County, 1st in the junior division was Austin Hunt and second was Grady Ruehling. In the senior division, Phillip Mueller was 1st, Lydia Hunt 2nd, and Gabe Ruehling 3rd.