Youth and animals practice for county fair

Emma Rosas, front, demonstrates her showmanship with her Serama rooster. Fellow 4-H member Morgan Michalke is next in line and ready to show her rooster at the Youth Fair held May 20 at the Fallbrook High School Ag Department. Christine Rinaldi photos

Morgan Michalke and her rooster proudly display their participation ribbon following the poultry judging competition at the Youth Fair on May 20.

Brandon James proudly displays the ribbon he won during his participation in the Market Quality competition with his pig, Bandit. The annual Youth Fair gives FFA and 4-H members a chance to practice their skills before moving on to the San Diego County Fair.

Judge Paula Kornelsen, left, evaluates Samantha Wilson and Mozzie, her 6 month old American Fuzzy Lop. This is the first time that Wilson has participated in the Youth Fair and she was able to secure a second place ribbon in the intermediate classification, May 20.

Darcey Bender and her brother's sheep catch a quick nap before the start of their competition.

Sydney Kornelsen and her Golden Seabright chicken receive a first place ribbon in the senior classification for chickens at the Youth Fair May 20.

Katie Kehl and her mixed breed steer, Jasper, head into the show ring to compete in the advanced showmanship competition. Kehl and Jasper secured 4th place.

Molly Schmierer and her Serama chicken dressed as a surgeon are the winners in the Best Dressed category of the Chickens on Parade contest. Chickens were dressed in costume and carried into the show ring, competing for Best Dressed and Most Original awards. The Best Speaker was awarded to the participant who was the most comfortable answering questions from the judges.