by LANDEN ATKINS
Interviews conducted by Bok North FFA Public Relations Committee
The 2026 Polk County Youth Fair highlighted the dedication, skill, and enthusiasm of youth involved in agricultural and natural resource programs throughout Polk County. From livestock and plant projects to archery and weigh-ins, students proudly represented their FFA chapters, 4-H clubs, and schools while sharing the stories behind their projects.
Several livestock exhibitors spoke about their animals and experiences at the fair. Tyler Boyd of the Auburndale FFA introduced himself alongside his 3-year-old Nigerian dwarf goat, who recently had a baby named Jasper. Tyler shared how caring for both the doe and her kid has been a rewarding experience.
Addison, representing Providence Academy, discussed her 2-year-old goat and her growing experience in the show ring. With two years of goat showing experience, Addison shared that her goat recently had a baby December 16. Joining her was her sister, Layla from Winter Haven FFA, who proudly introduced her Nigerian dwarf goat named Winnie.
Mason Taber of Country Ridge 4-H talked about his black Brangus bull, which he acquired from a woman his family had previously purchased cattle from. Mason has been showing the bull for several months and described the responsibility and commitment involved in preparing the animal for exhibition.
Cattle exhibitors also included Danny Bailey from Haines City High School FFA, who is in his second year showing a Zebu bull at the Youth Fair. This year marks the bull’s final appearance due to age restrictions. Danny described the bull as very sweet and emphasized how much he has enjoyed working with him over the past two years.
Kaitlyn Slaughter of Lake Wales FFA shared her experience with her Brangus heifer, born on February 18. This project marks Kaitlyn’s first bred and owned heifer, making it an important milestone in her cattle showing career.
Representing the Florida Virtual FFA Chapter, Marlee Goodman introduced her cow, Gracie, who is pregnant and due in early April. Marley discussed balancing virtual schooling with the daily responsibilities of animal care, demonstrating that agricultural education can thrive in both traditional and online learning environments.
The Youth Fair also featured plant science and horticulture projects. Jesiah Lynch, with McLaughlin FFA, participated alongside Sierra from Winter Haven Senior FFA, Annalise and Avery from Bok North FFA. Sierra shared that her strong love for horticulture motivated her to exhibit a plant. Others discussed challenges they encountered, including financial requirements when turning in plants, keeping plants alive through proper feeding, and protecting them from cold temperatures.
Archery was another area of competition represented at the Youth Fair. Bryce introduced himself as a member of Lucky A’s 4-H and shared that he began archery in sixth grade simply because it sounded fun. Jackson Larrabee, representing Lake Gibson High School FFA, explained that he started archery in eighth grade after owning a bow and deciding it would be an enjoyable activity to try. Brianna Ritchey, a freshman from Lake Wales FFA, said she chose archery because she wanted to try something new and thought it would be fun.
The Youth Fair also included swine exhibitors who participated in weigh-ins. Sarah Rising from George Jenkins FFA reported a pig weight of 246 pounds. Isabella Silva of Lake Wales FFA weighed in at 266 pounds, while Yukane Rio from Ridge Community presented a 280-pound pig. These students were excited to share how raising their pigs helped them learn responsibility, time management, and the importance of record keeping.
Overall, the 2026 Polk County Youth Fair showcased the hard work, responsibility, and passion of local youth. Whether caring for newborn animals, managing bred livestock, protecting plants from harsh weather, competing in archery, or preparing animals for weigh-ins, exhibitors demonstrated the strong impact of youth agricultural and leadership programs across Polk County.