Support our hardworking 4-H and FFA kids

This letter is to acknowledge a group of special young people in the North San Diego County area who are members of community 4-H and FFA organizations.

These youngsters commit to the task of raising market animals to be ultimately shown in showmanship and market classes at the Del Mar Fair. They purchase the animals and the feed and put in hours and months of care in pursuit of the “Blue Ribbon.”

They are judged by qualified, experienced judges who determine if the animals are blue ribbon quality and thus eligible for sale at the Junior Livestock Auction. Those also earning a Champion or Reserve Champion ribbon bring a higher price per pound at the auction.

The Bonsall Rotary Club is one of only two rotary clubs who have for many years supported these groups of dedicated youngsters by bidding on and buying their animals. Active bidding increases the ultimate sale price.

Most of the animals that Bonsall Rotary buys are donated back for sale and the proceeds from the buy-back sale go into the scholarship fund for 4-H and FFA raisers. The bid price, however, goes to the raiser.

This year, the Bonsall Rotary Club bought a total of 10 animals with eight going back to the scholarship fund. In total, Bonsall Rotary and its members bought 17 animals.

These kids still need more support from the community and it would be great if more service clubs and organizations would participate in this event.

Donald Brust

Valley Center