Youth will compete for top prizes in several divisions within the cattle show including bred-and-owned heifers, bulls and cow-calf pairs and owned heifers, cow-calf pairs and steers. The opportunity to enter steers in a carcass division also exists.

Judges for the cattle show include Doug Parrett, Urbana, Ill., who will evaluate the owned heifers. Jeff Dameron, Lexington, Ill., will judge the bred-and-owned heifers, bulls and cow-calf pairs, and Scott Bush, Britton, S.D., will evaluate the steers.

In addition to the cattle show, numerous educational competitions take place during the week, including two new to the 2006 NJAS. This year, the Indiana juniors will conduct a cattle judging contest. A team fitting contest has been added to the list of contests, which also include prepared and extemporaneous public speaking, a quiz bowl, team sales, photography, posters, creative writing and graphic design. Another feature of the week is the American Angus Auxiliary-sponsored All American Certified Angus Beef� Cook-off. As well, six members will be elected to the NJAA board of directors at the annual meeting during the week.

This year marks the 40th Annual National Junior Angus Showmanship contest. Limited to two youth from each state each year, a young person may only compete once in this prestigious event. Showmanship judges include Gary Dameron, Lexington, Ill.; Donnie Robertson, Yukon, Okla.; and Richie Oaks, Butnam, Okla.

Besides the cattle shows and competitions, educational events will take place during the week. A showmanship clinic will be conducted early in the week, and a fitting demonstration will be later in the week. An informational session about American Angus AssociationSM programs will also take place.

Exhibitors and contestants at the NJAS must be NJAA members and be nine years old, but not yet 21, by January 1, 2006, to compete in the activities. The ownership and entry deadline is June 1, and no late entries are accepted.