Special to the Enquirer

The Morgan County 4H Livestock Judging Team competes in the State Livestock Judging Contest hosted by Auburn University and brings home the state championship, having the high-scoring individuals in both the junior and senior divisions. FFA advisors Erin Fields, from Cotaco, and Josh Melson, from Brewer, worked alongside Morgan County Extension coordinator Brett Crow to coach the team to the state win. Students evaluated beef cattle, hogs, sheep and meat goats and had to defend their decisions with oral presentations explaining their logic. Participants not only learned about the livestock industry but also gained valuable decision-making and public speaking skills that are demanded in virtually every profession. Caden Childers brought home honors as the high-scoring individual overall in the senior division, and Lincoln Kallas captured the same title in the junior division of the contest. Team members include Landon Hornbuckle, Maddie Darnell, Maggie Raper, Helen Gladney, Caden Childers, Blake Bennett, Callie Childers, Lincoln Kallas and Bryleigh Bennett.