Three local youth will be competing against almost 800 others from all over the state this weekend.  The 81st Annual Kansas Junior Livestock Show (KJLS) begins today, September 20th and will run through Monday September 23rd at the Kansas Coliseum in Wichita.  The event features 795 youth from 92 counties entering 1,817 animals.

Kirk Huser and Kristin Huser of Victoria and Abigail Dickinson of Gorham will be representing Ellis County at this year’s show.

Entries for this year’s event are the highest in 25 years.  KJLS President Brian Creager of Emporia says the event brings many people together.

“This traditional event for Kansas youth has a large number of faithful and very generous supporters.  It is a great way for businesses and individuals to reward young people for their hard work and help them meet their educational goals.”

Prior to the sale of the steers, hogs, lambs and goats, KJLS will present scholarships ranging from #$750 to $2,500.  The scholarships will be awarded to competitors that have excelled academically, in community service and in 4-H / FFA.

The scholarship program has awarded a total of $328,100 to 256 KJLS youth since 1993.  The program is funded primarily through private contributions and income generated by the Beefeaters Barbecue held prior to the auction.

Abigail Dickinson will be showing 2 steers, 1 heifer, 2 barrows and 2 lambs.  She’ll be competing in Beef, Swine and Sheep Showmanship.

Kirk Huser will be showing 2 steers, 1 lamb and 1 ewe.  He’ll be competing in Beef and Sheep Showmanship.

Kristin Huser will be showing 1 lamb and 2 ewes.  She’ll be competing in Sheep Showmanship.