Memories Made...

As the gates closed down on Sunday night at the 109th Phillips County Fair, it joined the other 108 and became "just a memory." There are tired, sleepy, and perhaps even grumpy children today, up to the age of 96, that are glad it is over.

There were quite a few changes in activities this year at the fair. Last Saturday had actually been the official kick-off of the fair with the horse judging at the Milk River Pavilion. Then on Monday, the small animal judging was held at the pavilion, as well.

Animals that were judged included rabbits, goats, cats and dogs. The results of this show were: no kids won in the dog division; Seterah Pekovitch won Reserve Champion in Rooster Over One Year, Alex Oshio won Grand Doe Over One Year, and Nolan Moore was awarded the Cat Showmanship award. Lyla Warren won Rabbit Showmanship.

The swine projects were judged on Thursday, including Swine Showmanship, Market Swine, and Breeding Swine. The day was already long by the time the weigh-in scales closed at 1 p.m., and judging kicked off at 4 p.m. Mother Nature kicked up the heat just as a reminder, "It's County Fair time!"

When the tally marks were counted on Thursday, Kallie LaBrie had raised the Grand Champion swine; the Reserve market pig was owned by Layla Messerly.

On Saturday morning, Beef Showmanship, Market Beef and Breeding Beef were held. Results of the beef judging was Grand Champion - Jayda Wyse, and Reserve Champion was awarded to Emree Stuart. There were only a few run away beeves and even that was short-lived.

Following a short break for lunch break, Sheep Showmanship, and Market and Breeding Sheep entries, followed by Market and Breeding Goats was held. Results were: Emmett Skubinna won all Sheep related awards.

The show came to a finish on Saturday as projects went through the sales ring underneath the white tent. The bill of sale for each had been signed and ownership transferred, and now was the time to parade their pets one final time.

The sale of beef started off the auction with internet connections and online buyers able to place their bid. The 34 beef sold for $3.50/lb. up to $8.50/lb., bringing in $4,217.50 to $11,900. The average was $4.85/lb.

When the swine came through the ring, 57 head sold anywhere from $4.25/lb. to $14.50, for a total in sale price between $1,190 to $3,262.50. The average of swine sales was (about) $7.52.