(L to R): Blaine Davis, Boone Reynolds, Chloe Scott, State Rep. Johnny Mack Morrow, Baylee Gonzalez, Armando Gonzalez, Latrina Bishop and Mary Moore.

>What is it?

The 4-H Chick Chain project is designed to teach 4-H members recommended management practices for growing and raising chickens. Participation in the 4-H Chick Chain project will help Franklin County 4-Hers to:

· Develop poultry management skills

· Learn to produce healthy chickens

· Develop an awareness for business management

· Develop record keeping skills (income and expenses)

· Realize the pride of accomplishment

>How the Chick Chain works:

At the end of April, Franklin County 4-H members received 10 chicks that were 1-2 days old and were all pullets (females). They received five individual chicks from each of the two breeds they chose. They could choose from the following three breeds: Rhode Island Reds, Black Australorps, and Barred Plymouth Rock. They all came from a reputable hatchery and were properly vaccinated.

4-H members cared for these pullets for approximately 21 weeks. They brought the best two pullets from the same breed to the Northwest Alabama Chick Chain Show and Sale held at the 2014 North Alabama State Fair in Muscle Shoals on Sept. 18. The 4’H’ers who brought their best two pullets (of one breed) to the show, received their $25 deposit, and the chance to win prize money and ribbons. If the 4-H’er successfully raised 10 pullets, they had eight left, which they were able to keep for egg production.

The 4-H Chick Chain Show and Auction was sponsored by Sen. Roger Bedford and State Rep. Johnny Mack Morrow, the Franklin County Commission and the Franklin County Extension System.

>Participants from Franklin County

Latrina Bishop-Belgreen High School, Blaine Davis-Calvary Fellowship, Armando Gonzalez-Belgreen High School, Baylee Gonzalez-Belgreen High School, Mary Moore-Red Bay High School, Boone Reynolds-East Franklin Jr. High, Chloe Scott-East Franklin Jr. High, and Colt Thomas-Phil Campbell Elementary School.

>Chick Chain Show Awards

Showmanship (Ages 9-12)

1^{st  –} Colt Thomas

2^nd – Armando Gonzalez

3^{rd –} Chloe Scott

Showmanship (Ages 13-15)

1^{st  –} Mary Moore

2^nd – Blaine Davis

3^{rd –} Baylee Gonzalez

Franklin County Supreme Showman

1^st – Mary Moore

Breed Classes

Rhode Island Red

1^st – Baylee Gonzalez

Black Australorps

1^st – Mary Moore

2^nd – Blaine Davis

Barred Plymouth Rock

1^st – Latrina Bishop

2^nd – Colt Thomas

3^rd – Armando Gonzalez

County Grand and Reserve Champion

1^st – Mary Moore – County Grand Champion

2^nd – Baylee Gonzales – Reserve Champion

Tri-County Overall Show Supreme Champion      

1^st – Mary Moore