STOCKTON – San Joaquin AgFest Junior Show and Auction continues to be about youngsters.
Even with the absence of the San Joaquin County Fair, AgFest soldiered on thanks to the support of donors and volunteers.
“We’ve always been here,” said Bonner Murphy, who was a catalyst behind making this event for the local Future Farmer of America and 4-H Club chapters in a non-profit organization. “We’ve always been about the kids.”
The fair is back after a two-year hiatus and now operating in conjunction with AgFest.
It’s about fairgoers dropping by to see the livestock as well as FFA and  4-Hers along with their families having the option to enjoy fair food, taking in a ride at the Midway – Super Slide, the Viper, the Drop Zone, Ferris wheel or the roller coaster – or perusing  the entertainment and exhibits.
Some caught BMX Freestyle Team on the nearby half pipe or Kevin Keith and his wife Martina bring out their exotic animals with their “Wild About Monkeys” show.
The fair also featured the K9 Kings Dog Show not to mention tribute bands such as a Salute to Foreigner or first-day act Journey Unauthorized.
 Murphy, who stepped back as organizer of AgFest, had a chance to focus on FFA and 4-H matters. She’s involved with the Escalon chapters along with her children Rowan and Flynn.
“We’re doing our event,” said Murphy on Thursday. “We’re independent of the fair with all volunteers and some amazing animals.”
She and others were looking forward to costume parade of farm animals along the Midway later that day capped by Farm to Fork celebration.
This fundraising event consists of some of the best restaurants in the area using fresh SJC produce and wines by local vintners.
Proceeds help fund AgFest, including awards for FFA and 4-H Club members.
The week-long AgFest concludes Saturday with the auction.
The fair, which began on Wednesday, wraps up on Sunday.
General admission is $10 adults, $5 children age 6-12 (5 and under is free), $7 seniors, military & students with ID.
Unlimited rides wristbands are available for $30.
For more information of the fair, call 209.466.5041 or log on to www.sanjoaquinfair.com.