Take a selfie with an alpaca in Sac

SACRAMENTO — People fall in love with alpacas for many reasons, but one reason is they are a business that can involve the entire family.

With their soft padded feet, lack of sharp damaging teeth and shy-yetcurious nature, this is a livestock option that is comparatively safe for even young children to enjoy.

In many cases, the alpaca business is truly a family affair.

The Alpaca Owners Association Fleece Show, sponsored by Epic Alpacas, will take a new look at the family side of raising alpacas — as well as the industry’s end products — at the Marriott Rancho Cordova this weekend, and the public is invited.

The annual AOA Fleece Show draws attendees from across the United States and abroad.

This year’s event will also welcome actress Kathy Garver, best known for her role as Cissy Davis on the 1970s sitcom “Family Affair,” and Chicagobased celebrity artist Nicolosi, best known for his pop art portraits of entertainers, athletes and politicians, including Rue McClanahan, Michael Jackson, Hillary Clinton, Leonardo Di Caprio and others.

Garver and Nicolosi will be available for an autograph session from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday. At the same time, the public is invited to snap a selfie with an alpaca at the free selfie booth.

At 10:30 a.m., Nicolosi will unveil his portrait celebrating “Alpacas, a Family Affair!”

Attendees who participate in the Alpaca Selfie contest will have their chance to win a limited-edition print of the painting, complete with certificate of authenticity and signed by Nicolosi and Garver. To enter, use the hashtag #AlpacaSelfie on Facebook and Twitter on your alpaca selfie taken at the show.

Nicolosi and Garver will choose a winner. Entries must be submitted by 10 p.m. Saturday.

Other activities will include a Fleece to Shawl demo, the AOA Breeder Cup and more.