ROME TOWNSHIP - For LaTosha Hatfield, of Kountry Kidz 4-H club, earning the grand champion trophy at Monday's market lamb show was not just a personal accomplishment, but very nearly a badge of family honor.

Her father, Tony Hatfield, raised lambs before her, and along the way he has imparted some wisdom and maybe a little help. Now, LaTosha is carrying on the family tradition. It is a tradition the whole family gets involved in during the year.

"We help her out with finding a lamb, and setting stuff up," Tony Hatfield said of LaTosha.

Sister Tiara, 6, has also lent a willing hand to make Pauly the lamb a winner. Mom helps out with the 4-H projects, too.

This year, the reserve champion went to Elizabeth Diamond of Barnyard Buddies 4-H club.

LaTosha has a collection of

trophies to show for years of 4-H hard work. The past three years, she's won fourth place and then two years she collected the reserve champion trophy.

Asked what her secret was to raising a prize-winning lamb, LaTosha thought a moment.

"A lot of work," she answered. "And Dad."