Leonardtown, MD — The future of the Southern Maryland livestock industry was on display this past weekend at the St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds south of Leonardtown. The 11th annual Southern Maryland Invitational Livestock Expo (SMILE) gathered together young people aged 8 to 21 to compete in classes for the traditional livestock breeds of sheep, beef, dairy cow, swine and goats and this year for the first time Cavies and rabbits.
The SMILE show “celebrates the showmanship talents of young people with an interest in raising livestock and provides a forum for Southern Maryland youth to improve their showmanship knowledge and skills and empowers them for success in shows around the state and beyond,” according to SMILE’s website.
“The best thing about SMILE is the relaxed competitive atmosphere,” said SMILE Chairman Jay Farrell. “Yes, it’s a competition, and the kids work hard, but after the day’s work is done we all get together for an informal dinner, team games and other educational activities that focus on shared interests and building new friendships.”
Participation this year was increased to include representatives from Anne Arundel, Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Calvert, Charles, Prince George’s and St. Mary’s counties. Last year almost 100 youth showed 277 animals.
Please enjoy the Photo Gallery from SMILE by the Bay Net’s Ron Bailey.
