United Junior

Suffolk Sheep Association

Coordinator's Message
Andy Asberry

A year's worth of planning and hard work paid off on July 4th weekend in Laramie, Wyoming. The 27th annual National Junior Suffolk Show was a success by any measurement. The number of exhibitors was down slightly but the number of entries was up. Every pen was filled.

The staff at the University of Wyoming could not have been more accommodating. There are so many to thank. Dr. Doug Hixon for inviting us and coordinating the efforts. Brent Larson, UW shepherd, for housing sheep for extra days and providing sheep for the fitting contest. Lance Miller for running the judging contest, finding a grill and securing the health permit for food service. And finally, Dave Moore for setting up the pens (and cleanup afterward), getting us free chips for the ring, helping with banquet setup and generally making sure things went smoothly.

The Junior Board worked very hard to provide an educational and fun weekend while keeping the costs as low as possible. They were able to provide donuts, coffee, milk and juice each morning; a hamburger lunch on Friday; and a pizza party on Friday night. The pizza party was followed by fun and games in the show ring. Even the adults were drawn into the fun. A great time was enjoyed by all.

Saturday's hot dog cookout was followed by a banquet meal of brats and barbeque complete with all the trimmings. Thanks to Judy Shambow and all her hard workers.

Many awards were presented during the UJSSA Annual Meeting. The UJSSA Annual Meeting location was officially changed to the National Junior Suffolk Show. Tom Shambow was elected President for the 2009/2010 year.

Three of the USSA statues were auctioned to support the 2010 Show. Thank you to all the bidders.

A special thanks to Steve  George, our judge and to Tom Burke, our announcer and commentator.

Of course, none of this is possible without the breeders and sponsors who open their hearts and their wallets to support the Junior program. Thank you all!