4-H teen receives perfect score from rabbit judge

OKEECHOBEE — Tenth grader Alyssa Cortez was shocked when Judge Jeff Albright awarded her a perfect score during the Okeechobee Youth Rabbit Show this week. She earned First Champion Showmanship for rabbits. Judge Albright told the crowd he has judged thousands of contestants, and Alyssa was only the second he has ever given a perfect score.

Alyssa is a member of multiple 4-H clubs including Bacon Bunch, Sharp Shooters, County Council, Show Stoppers and Horse Judging. She began 4-H as a Cloverbud and spends much of her time helping the younger members of her clubs with their animals.

Bacon Bunch leader Michelle Cohen said, "I am so happy for Alyssa! She worked so hard for that. She did amazing and was so surprised when her name was called out for first place."

Alyssa earned a belt buckle as well but is saving it until she can get a special belt to put it on.