Rachel Hayes, Decatur County 4-H alumna, was recently honored by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and First Lady of Georgia Marty Kemp during the Georgia National Fair Opening Ceremonies on October 5, 2023 at the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter in Perry, Georgia.
Rachel exhibited the 2022 Georgia National Market Lamb as a 12th grade student at Bainbridge High School. Governor Kemp, along with other state legislators and leaders, recognized and honored the 2022 Grand Champions for their astounding success.
“Oftentimes livestock exhibitors work their entire show career to be named as Grand Champion at the state livestock shows and Rachel has worked countless hours,” stated Teresa Adkins with Decatur County Extension. “It is a tremendous accomplishment for livestock exhibitors to receive this honor,” said Adkins. Decatur County 4-H youth exhibit lambs, beef cattle, and swine throughout the year across the country. Immeasurable hours are dedicated to caring for each specie. 4-H livestock exhibitors represent their schools and community as part of the Decatur County Show Team. As a result of their involvement, youth gain character traits including responsibility, caring, and fairness. Youth livestock exhibitors understand the reward of hard-work and dedication. In addition, they practice numerous life skills including teamwork, self-motivation, building self-esteem, critical thinking, decision making, goal setting, cooperation, and communication.
The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (working cooperatively with Fort Valley State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the counties of Georgia) offers its educational programs, assistance, and materials to all people without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status and is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action organization.
