By By EMILY DREITZLER / Niles Daily Star
NILES - Jessica Krassow's interest in participating in the Berrien County Youth Fair (BCYF) began almost 15 years ago.
Krassow, a 19-year-old Niles resident and sophomore at Hope College majoring in pre-med, remains committed to showing goats at the fair, but has since expanded her participation to include a number of other events.
This year Krassow will enter a variety in the 2005 Berrien County Youth Fair such as; Lamachas, an american breed of dairy goats; Polish and Flemish Giant rabbits, and still exhibits in Home-Ec and Horticulture.
Krassow is an active member in her 4-H group, the Redbud Country Goat Club.
There is a great amount of preparation Krassow undergoes to present her goats at the fair every year. "There are 4-H classes every Tuesday to practice showmanship. Conditioning the goats is a year-long project and the goats must be shaved entirely during fair week," Krassow said.
Krassow shows goats in the category of market at the fair. Goats usually sell for between $150 to $200. Last year Krassow sold one of her goats for $500.
Krassow has also made a lot of friends while active in the BCYF. "I have a lot of people I met through the fair who show all kinds of things."
The week before fair proves to be a hectic time for Krassow. "Things are really busy, especially now. We are milking the animals twice a day and, between still exhibits and goats, it's been really rough. Everything is worth it in the end though.
"I have a lot of support from my family. My dad (Craig) helps me show and does a lot of the behind-the-scenes stuff," she added.
Over the years Krassow has acquired a wide array of awards from her participation in the BCYF including: 2004 Fair Queen, Grand Champion in dairy goats for three years in a row, Overall Grand Champion Showman for the past two years, and Reserve Grand Champion in Home-Ec still exhibits.
Krassow plans to continue actively participating in the BCYF for future years to come. "Next year is my last year for eligiblity to show. I have worked in the fair office this year and since I am the 2004 Fair Queen, I have helped with that as well. I plan on participating in the fair for many years to come."
In addition to the fair, Krassow also shows her goats at local sanction shows.
The Berrien County Youth Fair will take place from Aug. 15 to 20. The BCYF fairgrounds are located at 9122 Old U.S. 31 in Berrien Springs.