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After a week of competition at the Lincoln County Fair, local 4-H members are preparing for one of the biggest events of the week—the annual 4-H Premium Sale.
The sale begins at 1 p.m. today in the Ag Building at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds, giving community members the opportunity to support area youth and recognize the time and dedication they've invested in their livestock projects.
Kelsey Amos, who showed beef cattle at this year's fair, said this year's event marks the end of her 4-H career.
"This is my 10th and final year," Amos said. "It's kind of a super sad moment to think I'm almost done."
Despite the hot temperatures throughout fair week, Amos said it was a rewarding experience. Her hard work paid off in the show ring, where she earned Supreme Champion Overall Beef Animal.
"I sure hope," Amos said with a laugh when asked if she expects top dollar during the premium sale.
Unlike a traditional livestock auction, Amos explained the Lincoln County sale is a premium-only sale.
"There won't be any actual animals being sold, but we do get to sell basically ourselves to support our livestock that we've raised and put a ton of time and money and effort into," she said. "It helps bring back some of the effort that we've put into it."
For Amos, the proceeds will help fund the next chapter of her education. She will attend Laramie County Community College this fall, and she said the money earned through the sale will go directly toward college expenses.
Also participating in this year's sale is first-year 4-H livestock exhibitor Axel Staab, who showed both cattle and goats during the fair.
"It went really good," Staab said of his first fair experience. "I really enjoyed everything."
Staab said he only showed one goat this year, while his sister also exhibited one. Although he's looking forward to the premium sale, saying goodbye to his project won't be easy.
"I'm really gonna miss my goat," he said.
His goat earned Reserve Champion honors during competition, while he also exhibited two heifers.
When asked if he plans to return to the fair next year, Staabresponded with a smile, "Maybe."
As her 4-H career comes to a close, Amos encouraged young people to get involved, regardless of their interests.
"It is the best experience you will ever be part of," she said. "The people are amazing. The opportunities that you have are just once in a lifetime. If you're just thinking about making a cake for the fair, just do it. I promise you won't regret it."
Staab agreed, encouraging other youth to give 4-H a try.
The Lincoln County 4-H Premium Sale begins at 1 p.m. today in the Ag Building at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds. Community members are invited to attend and support local youth as they celebrate a year of hard work and dedication.