A supplement to The Huntsville Item
2014 Walker County Fair and Rodeo April 4-13
Walker County Fairgrounds
Huntsville, Texas
2 The Huntsville Item
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
March 2014
March 2014
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
The Huntsville Item 3
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
4 The Huntsville Item
March 2014
Item fIle photo
the Walker County fair and Rodeo kicks off again with a fun-filled parade through downtown huntsville. the parade is set for thursday night starting at 7 p.m.
Time for a parade
Walker County Fair kicks off Thursday with parade through downtown by tom Waddill tomWaddill@itemonline.com
the people of Huntsville love a good parade. every year, folks line the streets prior to christmas, homecoming and the Walker county Fair. bands march and floats slowly make their way down the main drags while children collect free candy. everyone in town has a big time.
it won’t be long now before Walker county’s next communitywide parade. the Walker county Fair association Parade will be held thursday, april 3, starting at 7 p.m. lineup will begin at 5:30 p.m. on 19th Street between avenue o and Sam Houston avenue. the Walker county Fair Parade offers an excellent opportunity for businesses, clubs and churches to
showcase their organization and to play an active role in the fair. the parade will traverse north on Sam Houston avenue, turning left onto 11th Street and end in or near the Sears/ironworks parking lot. Participants are encouraged to decorate their floats with this year’s Fair theme, “Sow ’em, Grow ’em and Show ’em” in mind. awards will be given to the most beautiful, best
business, best organization, exhibitor’s excellence, President’s award and Queen’s contestant award. anyone interested in entering the parade can find entry forms at www.walkercountyfair.com or pick up one at either cole insurance agency located at 253 State Highway 75 north in Huntsville or First Financial bank (annex building) located at 33 State Highway 75 north in Huntsville.
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
March 2014
The Huntsville Item 5
Some of world’s top cowboys coming to town ‘Cream of the crop’ to compete for big bucks at Walker County Fair by Gene ScHallenberG GeneS@itemonline.com
the Walker county Fairgrounds’ rodeo arena is about to get busy. For two days out of the 11-day-long event, the spotlight of the Walker county Fair and rodeo will shine on some of the world’s best cowboys and cowgirls. that’s right, folks, top-notch cowboys and cowgirls from all over the country are coming to Huntsville to rope, ride, race and wrestle for the big prize money at the Walker county Fair and rodeo on april 35. “We’re drawing the cream of the crop,” said Kevin Green, who is in charge of rodeo and arena activities for the Walker See rodeo, page 25
Rodeo fans in huntsville love to watch the bull riding every spring. some of the world’s best cowboys are coming to town late this week to challenge stock contractor stace smith’s meanest bulls on friday and saturday nights. Big paychecks await those who can stay on board those bulls for 8 seconds. pain is sure to come for those who cannot make their required rides. the huntsvIlle Item fIle photo
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
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2014 Walker County Fair and Rodeo schedule Wednesday, April 2 6 p.m. 6 p.m.
Queens Rehearsal opening Ceremonies Rehearsal
main Building main Building
thursday, April 3 9 a.m. Rodeo slack (barrels) Rodeo Arena 9 a.m. Rodeo slack (timed events) Rodeo Arena 5-9 p.m. scramble heifer Check-In livestock Barn 5-10 p.m. Carnival open (sneak preview) 5:30 p.m. parade lineup 19th street & Ave o 7 p.m. WCfA parade Downtown huntsville
Friday, April 4 7-9 a.m. Baked & Canned Goods Check-In main Building 8-10 a.m. supervised projects move In 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Quilts check-in fabric Carousel, Downtown noon Commercial exhibits in place 4-5 p.m. fine Arts Check-In main Building 4 p.m. special Kids Rodeo main Building, Arena 4 p.m. General Admission Begins 4:30 p.m. Chuck Wagon Cook off & Dinner 5 p.m. Baked & Canned Goods Results posted 5 p.m.-midnight Carnival 5-9 p.m. petting Zoo open 5:30 p.m. Calf scramble participant check-in livestock Barn 6 p.m. prince and princess Contest main Building 6 p.m. fine Arts Judging main Building 7:30 p.m. pRCA Rodeo performance Rodeo Arena During rodeo Youth Calf scramble Rodeo Arena 9 p.m. WCfA Kickoff Dance main Building
saturday, April 5 8:30 a.m. WCfA trail Ride sign-up Back parking lot 9 a.m. WCfA trail Ride Back parking lot 10 a.m. General Admission begins noon-midnight Carnival two armband sessions noon Reception for dignitaries, exhibitors, families and WCfA members main Building 1 p.m. opening Ceremonies main Building 1 p.m. Crowning of the WCfA fair Queen main Building 2 p.m. sweet shop opens main Building Concessions 3-3:45 p.m. mutton Bustin’ Check-In livestock Building Arena 4-6 p.m. meat Goat Check-In livestock Barn 4-6 p.m. mutton Bustin’ livestock Building Arena 4:30 p.m. Chuck Wagon Cook-off & Dinner 5:30 p.m. Calf scramble participant Check-In livestock Barn 6 p.m. Country music star contest semifinals WCfA main
7:30 p.m. pRCA Rodeo performance During rodeo Youth Calf scramble 9 p.m. petting Zoo closes
stage Rodeo Arena Rodeo Arena
sunday, April 6 1-2 p.m. Academic Rodeo registration main Building 1 p.m. General Admission begins, petting Zoo opens 1-10 p.m. Carnival 2-4 p.m. lambs Check-In livestock Barn 2 p.m. Academic Rodeo main Building 5-6 p.m. little tyke Rodeo sign-up Rental office 6 p.m. meat Goat show livestock show Arena
monday, April 7 7-9 a.m. Broilers Check-In livestock Barn 8 a.m.-noon Quilts Judging main Building 10 a.m. Broiler show livestock show Arena 10 a.m. supervised projects Judging Committeeman’s Room 10 a.m.-1 p.m. senior Day main Building 3-6 p.m. swine Check-In & official Weigh-In livestock Barn 4 p.m. supervised project Awards livestock show Arena 4-7 p.m. steer official final Weigh-In livestock Barn 4 p.m. General Admission begins 5-9 p.m. petting Zoo open 5-10 p.m. Carnival 6 p.m. market lamb show livestock Arena 6:30 p.m. little tyke Rodeo Rodeo Arena 6:30-8:30 p.m. live entertainment midway stage/ Acoustic Cafe
tuesday, April 8 8 a.m. Rabbits in place livestock Barn 9 a.m. Rabbit meat pen Judging livestock show Arena 9 a.m. pre-K Day 1 p.m. Clothing Judging main Building 4 p.m. style show, Awards & Kids on parade main Building 4 p.m. General Admission begins 5-9 p.m. petting Zoo open 5-10 p.m. Carnival 6 p.m. market swine show livestock show Arena 6 - 7 p.m.faye Burns Dance studio main Building 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. live entertainment Acoustic Cafe
Wednesday, April 9 8 a.m.-noon Commercial heifers Check-In livestock Barn 9 a.m. Kindergarten Day 1:30 p.m. Commercial heifers show livestock Barn 4-6 p.m. horticulture Check-In Committeeman’s Room 4 p.m. General Admission begins
5-9 p.m. petting Zoo open 5-10 p.m. Carnival 6-10p.m. sign up for Ranch Rodeo 6 p.m. steer show 6 p.m. exhibition & open Barrels 6:30-8:30 p.m. live entertainment
Cowboy Camp livestock show Arena Rodeo Arena midway stage/ Acoustic Cafe midnight Restricted parking in BBQ Area All vehicles removed from BBQ area
thursday, April 10 9 a.m. horticulture Judging Committeeman’s Room 5-9 p.m. petting Zoo open 5-10 p.m. Carnival 5:30 p.m. Buyer’s pre-sale party main Building 7 p.m. Junior livestock premium sale main Building
friday, April 11 9 a.m.-5 p.m. BBQ teams check-in 4-5 p.m. fine Arts Check-out main Building 4 p.m. General Admission begins 4:30-5 p.m. 42 tournament sign-up main Building 5 p.m. BBQ Chief Cooks meeting 5 p.m. BBQ teams in place 5 p.m.-midnight Carnival 5 - 9 p.m.petting Zoo open 5:30 p.m. 42 Domino tournament Begins main Building 6 p.m. scramble heifer show livestock show Arena 7 p.m. BBQ tagging of Briskets 7-10 p.m. songwriters Acoustic Cafe 8 p.m. BBQ & Chili Cook-off Calcutta BBQ stage
saturday, April 12 8 a.m. Chili teams move In 10 a.m.-noon photography Check-out main Building 10 a.m. General Admission begins 10 a.m.-9 p.m. petting Zoo open 10:30 a.m. BBQ Cook-off entries judging begins noon Baked & Canned Goods Auction main Building noon (after Baked & Canned Goods) supervised projects Auction main Building noon (after supervised projects) Art Auction main Building noon (after Art) horticulture Auction main Building noon (after horticulture) freezer sale m ain Building noon-3 p.m. Quilts Check-out main Building noon-midnight Carnival two different armband sessions: 1-6 p.m. and 6-11p.m. 4:30 p.m. BBQ Awards BBQ stage 6 p.m. Ranch Rodeo Rodeo Arena 7 p.m. Country music star finals WCfA main stage
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
March 2014
huntsvIlle Item fIle photo
Jared lampson and fair queen Kori King stand on the auction block with lampson’s grand champion steer as the bids roll in during the premium sale at the 2013 Walker County fair. lampson’s steer sold to Dave morvant for $20,000.
Best in show
Walker County youngsters aim for top honors at fair by cody StarK cStarK@itemonline.com
For many local youngsters, the Walker county youth livestock Show provides an opportunity to learn valuable life lessons they can carry with them always. in those early morning hours before school until well after sundown, these kids have the responsibility to care for and nurture an animal with the hopes it displays the type of characteristics the judges will be looking for to bring home top honors at the county fair. about 350 members of the Future Farmers of america and 4-H organizations will showcase their livestock projects beginning april 6 at the Walker county Fairgrounds. “it’s a real educational process,” Walker county extension agent reggie lepley said. “these youngsters learn to take care of themselves and their family on down the road by working with these animals. they have to feed them, make sure they get proper nutrition, make sure they constantly have clean water on a daily basis, monitor their health and take care of the facilities. “they also have to work on handling so they can exhibit the animal. “it’s lots of fun, but lots of hard work.” Walker county youths have the option of raising steers, swine, lambs, goats, broilers and rabbits in the market meat shows. each show is divided into weight classes and the top two places in each class advance to the finals where grand and reserve grand champions are crowned. See SHoW, page 27
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Walker County Fair & Rodeo
March 2014
There’s competition all around at fair by StePHen Green SGreen@itemonline.com
initial thoughts of the rodeo illicit visions of cowboys and bulls, but there is another competitive side to Walker county Fair. in addition to the rodeo and livestock shows, the fair has a dominos tournament, spelling and math bees, baked and canned goods contests, clothing design, singing contests, arts and crafts, horticulture, a kids rodeo, photography, quilt design and supervised projects competitions. the baked and canned goods show gives children and adults both the ability to show off their culinary skills, contest coordinator laura drake said. “Some kids might not have the money to raise livestock or participate in the rodeo,” drake said. “this way they can still say they participate in the fair.” She said the contest normally has a lot of interest from children, but the adult division needs more entries after only getting about 15 last year.
Folks looking forward to showing off their skills in all kinds of stuff: arts and crafts, dominos, baked goods, quilts and spelling bees any adults who want to participate in either contest can register on site on Friday, april 4, from 7 to 9 a.m. at the main building at the Walker county Fairgrounds. Students of FFa, Fccla and 4-H organizations already have submitted their pieces for contest. categories for the students are pies, jams, jellies, relishes, pickles, vegetables, miscellaneous canned goods, fruits, decorated cakes, cakes, miscellaneous baked goods, yeast breads, cookies, and candies. For adults the categories are vegetables, jellies, relishes, preserves, pickles, yeast breads, salsa, pies, fruits and jams. after registration, the goods will be judged and the results posted at 5 p.m. Students’ winning goods will be auctioned off at noon on Saturday, april 12.
For more information on that event, call drake at (936) 661-4425.
the fair also brings a localized version of american idol to Walker county with the county music Star competition. contest coordinator Steve Fox said the event showcases talented people in the county who otherwise might not have the opportunity elsewhere. “you wouldn’t believe the talent that we See comPetition, page 28
March 2014
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
The Huntsville Item 9
10 The Huntsville Item
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
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Calf scramble kids learn valuable life lessons
Winners at this year’s rodeo raise calf, compete in 2015 scramble heifer event by JP mcbride Jmcbride@itemonline.com
the Walker county Fair is a week full of fun events for all ages, and one of the most exciting events for the youths in the county is the annual calf scramble. on april 4 and 5, approximately 15 kids each night will chase down calves let loose in the rodeo arena midway through the rodeo performances, which start at 7:30 p.m. both nights. rusty davis, who handles the announcing, thinks the calf scramble is one of the best events for the young people in the county. it also provides loads of laughs and entertainment for the large rodeo crowds. “it’s a good program for the kids and a very popular program during the fair,” davis said. “We turn a bunch of cattle loose in the arena and those kids have to run around and See scramble, page 20
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Walker County Fair & Rodeo
March 2014
HunTSville iTem File pHoTo
The Walker County Fair Queen’s Court posed for pictures after Kori King was named 2013 Fair Queen. From left are Kaci Weeks, miss Congeniality; Kori King; 2012 Fair Queen Brittany Drake; Alyson Brame, second runner-up; and first runner-up maddie Cobler.
Seven lucky young ladies hope to be 2014 Fair Queen tHe Huntsville item
seven beautiful young ladies are competing for the title of 2014 Walker county Fair queen. rules state that each contestant must be a high school student in Walker county and have a project in this year’s fair. the 2014 contestants are taylor thompson, elizabeth carrell and diane Woods from Huntsville High school; Jenna drane; maddie cobler and Kadi tegeler from new Waverly High school; and Julie yates from alpha omega academy. these young ladies will start competing for the title on saturday, march 29 beginning at 9 a.m. in the committeemen’s room. they will each present an 8- to 10minute presentation on their WcFa project, have individual interviews with the panel of judges, as well as be scored on appearance and attire. Prior to contest day, each contestant is judged by former WcFa presidents on their fair participation.
the 2014 queen and her court will be announced during the opening ceremonies on april 5 at 1 p.m. in the WcFa main building. both the project presentation and the crowning are open to the public. everyone is invited to join the Fair association for each of these events at the Walker county Fairgrounds! take a closer look at each of the contestants for the 2014 Walker county Fair queen:
TayloR Thompson Daughter of nathan Thompson and megan price 16-year-old sophomore at Huntsville High School Club memberships: 4-H Horse Judging Team, Key Club, Student office, mu Alpha Theta activities/honors: vice president of Sophomore Class, national Junior Honor
See queen, page 12
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Walker County Fair & Rodeo
and freezing a moment in time so we can remember it forever. i dream of photographing weddings one day. presentation: The evolution of the Camera Continued from page 11 Why do you want to be Walker County Fair Queen? i would like to be the 2014 Walker County Fair Queen so i can Society, cross country team, Top 10 percent take this opportunity to show everyone what God has given me. hobbies or interests: Horseback riding, running, showing i have been so blessed to have so many choices and opportuniand reading ties in my life. i would like to pass on my blessings to others, to ambition: To become a pediatrician be a role model to the younger generation and to give back to presentation: Artificial insemination my community. my mom was born and raised in Walker County Why do you want to be Walker County Fair Queen? i and i have lived here for 14 years and have known many of the remember seeing the crowning ceremony when i was a little girl, past queens. i have competed in the Walker County Fair seeing all the smiles and tears of joy. Right then i knew i wanted princess contest and have always dreamed of be fair queen. to be Walker County Fair Queen. i want to set an example and This community is more than people that live around me, it is be a role model for my county, to represent what being a fair my family and i see being the Walker County Fair Queen as not queen really is. i want to grow as an individual along with my felonly a privilege but a responsibility. Being the 2014 Walker low court, watch myself grow in my capability and leadership County Fair Queen will ultimately give me much wanted experiskills. i want to show people that with dedication, hard work and ence in being a role model and spokesperson but will also realprayer, anything is possible. ize a lifelong dream of mine.
queen
ElizabETh CaRREll Daughter of margaret Carrell 16-year-old freshman at Huntsville High School Club memberships: FFA, Girl Scouts of America, Class officer, Archery (JoAD) activities and honors: Girl Scouts, barrel racing and showing goats hobbies and interests: Girl Scouts, barrel racing, showing goats, archery, hunting and helping others ambition: To make it to the pro rodeo and become a professional barrel racer project presentation: Showmanship and how to get ready for a goat show. Why i want to be Walker County Fair Queen? i would like to be queen to be a role model for the next generation to learn about animals and how to care for them. even special needs kids, i want to show them they can participate in events at the fair also. The Girl Scouts have taught me to be a role model for the younger generation. it would be a great honor to represent the Walker County Fair and Rodeo.
JEnna linn DRanE Daughter of Kris and Jennifer Drane 16-year-old junior at new Waverly High School Club memberships: new Waverly High School Beta Club, Walker County 4-H Horse Club, new Waverly Food Club, 20132014 member of Youth leadership institute of Walker County activities and honors: 2012 Walker County 4-H Horse Club high point judged events saddle winner, 2012 4-H Texas State photography contest three blue ribbons, member of the Second Baptist Church Youth Group, new Waverly High School volleyball and golf teams hobbies and interests: Singing, volleyball, photography, horse riding and going on youth mission trips and spending time with family and friends ambition: my main ambition is to become a large animal vet. i grew up around horses all my life and i have always had an interest in what it takes to keep them healthy. Anytime our horses had to go to the vet, i went too, i asked questions and watched it all. i hope to begin volunteering at a local vet hospital soon to get a jump start on my dream. i also love photography
DianE WooDs Grand-daughter of Jerry and Judy Woods 17-year-old junior at Huntsville High School Club memberships: 4-H, Skills uSA Cosmetology activities and honors: Raising Jersey cows and projects, Huntsville High School cosmetology, mission projects with my church hobbies and interests: Responsibility award, blue ribbon for artwork in Houston ambition: To become a master cosmetologist project presentation: lambs Why i want to be Walker County Fair Queen? The reason for my desire to become Walker County Fair Queen is due to the past 17 years of my life building my moral character, and having zeal to share what i have come to acquire for the next generation that will come to contemplate upon me. i want to set a good example for young women; they need a role model to look up to, as do other females my age. i am out to show them that no matter what they’ve been through or what hardships they are facing today, that their perseverance can allow them to accomplish any goal they set out to complete. This competition isn’t about money, beauty, or connections. my perseverance and hard work will be the factors that allow me the title of “Walker County Fair Queen.”
JuliE yaTEs Daughter of lori and Jackie Yates 16-year-old junior at Alpha omega Academy Club memberships: 4-H, Alpha omega varsity volleyball, club volleyball activities and honors: volleyball captain, vice president of the Commercial Heifer Club hobbies and interests: volleyball, hunting and showing ambition: Go to college, have a successful job and one day raise a family of my own. project presentation: How to raise replacement heifers and pick the correct bull. Why i want to be Walker County Fair Queen? i want so i can be a role model for the younger children in my community as well as representing my community in a helpful and positive
March 2014
manner. it would be an honor to be able to represent my county. Growing up i always looked up to the queen and her court and talked about how someday i wanted to be just like them. i would like to make my childhood dreams come true, but also i want to have the same effect on the younger girls as the previous queens had on me.
maDDiE CoblER Daughter of philip and elizabeth Cobler 18-year-old senior at new Waverly High School Club memberships: lifetime member of the Walker County Fair Association, FFA, 4-H, Texas Junior livestock Association, Texas Junior Charolais Association activities and honors: 2013 Queen’s first runner-up, 2012 WCFA miss Congeniality, grand champion market hog 2007, reserve senior showmanship market steer show 2010, third place tophand scramble heifer program 2009 hobbies and interests: Raising show cattle, 4-H Beef Quiz Bowl Team, County Council, Go Texas Scholarship participant, floral design, horticulture ambition: i will continue to do the best that i can with the knowledge that i know. every day there is something to learn and i will learn it. it doesn’t matter if i am behind a desk or i’m at the barn. To get through life you have to have ambition and desire. Through this fair queen experience i will gain knowledge to help carry me through life challenges forthcoming. project presentation: Feeding market steers Why i want to be Walker County Fair Queen? i would like to be Walker County Fair Queen because ... i want to give back to my community, county and my fair family and be the best role model that i can for generations to come. it has always been a dream of mine to become fair queen and to inspire young girls to do the same. Being fair queen isn’t all about the glitz and glamour or the fame, it’s about showing the hard work, dedication, being responsible, having discipline, and showing integrity. Yes, it’s fun dressing up in all the fancy clothes but that’s not what it’s about, it’s about being yourself, you need to be strong willed, dedicated and willing to help anyone in need. To me that is what being a fair queen is all about and i would love to be this for my community.
KaDi TEgElER Daughter of Sandy and Curtis Tegeler 16-year-old junior at new Waverly High School Club memberships: nBHA, FFA, 4-H, Rabbit Club, Horticulture Club, AQHA member and Food Club member activities and honors: livestock judging, five-year FFA member, two-year 4-H member, retired FFA vice president hobbies and interests: Barrel racing, showing livestock, AQHA, nBHA ambition: Criminal justice major project presentation: living life High on the Hog Why do i want to be Walker County Fair Queen? i want to be Walker County Fair Queen because i want to give back to my community and be an ambassador for the fair, and our way of life. my goal as queen is to be a good role model for the younger kids who will hopefully someday be ambassadors for our way of life.
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
March 2014
Cooks and their customers have a blast during fair’s barbecue & Chili Cook-off by JP mcbride Jmcbride@itemonline.com
a bunch of hard-working teams soon will put their skills to the test to see who can cook the tastiest barbecue in the county. around 60 teams will be competing in the barbecue and chili cook-off at the Walker county Fair, beginning at 10:30 a.m. on april 11 and ending a day later at 2:30 p.m. lee beaird, chairman of the cook-off, said the event serves a dual purpose, as it is a fun event for community members to participate in and also supports the youth of the county. “We are raising money for the youth of the county. the money goes back into the fair and the fair puts a lot of money back into the local youth,” he said.
“it’s for a good cause.” the entry fee for the event is $100 and provides each team with a 40-foot-by-40foot space with electricity and water, as well as allows them to compete in the brisket category. teams must pay an additional $15 to compete in each of the other seven categories that will be judged. those categories are ribs, chicken, pulled pork, chili, beans, dessert and an open category. there will also be a kids category (12 years old and under) with an entry fee of $10. beaird said there are no more spaces with water and electricity available, but people can still apply for a spot in the competition. “We are actually sold out as far as availSee cooK-oFF, page 19
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Sunburned but ecstatic, a member of a winning barbecue team reacts when she hears her teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s named called out on the loud speaker. The Barbecue and Chili Cook-off attracts a bunch of local teams every year for a weekend of fun and good food.
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Walker County Fair & Rodeo
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Walker County Fair & Rodeo
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Tuesday, April 1 2:00pm 7:00pm
Scramble Barrel Racing Slack, Steer Roping (Rodeo Arena) Committeeman’s BBQ & Media Appreciation
Wednesday, April 2 9:00am Rodeo Slack (Arena) Thursday, April 3 9:00am 5-10:00pm 7:00pm
NO ADMISSIONS TO THE FAIRGROUNDS AFTER 11:00PM
Sunday, April 6 1:00pm 1:00pm 1-9:00pm 1-10:00pm 2:00pm
Rodeo Slack (Rodeo Arena) Carnival Open-Sneak Preview WCFA Parade (Downtown Huntsville)
5-6:00pm
General Admission Begins Bulldogging Jackpot (Arena) Children’s Barn Yard/Petting Zoo Carnival Academic Rodeo/Children’s Fair (Main Bldg.) Little Tykes Rodeo Sign-up (Rental Office) Meat Goat Show (Livestock Barn)
NO ADMISSIONS TO THE FAIRGROUNDS AFTER 10:00PM
6:00pm
Friday, April 4 9:00am 9:00am 4:00pm 4:00pm
NO ADMISSION TO THE FAIRGROUNDS AFTER 9:00PM
4:30pm 5:00-9:00pm 6:00pm 6:30-9:00pm
7:30pm
9:00pm
Slack Barrels (Rodeo Arena) WCFA Trail Ride General Admission Begins Special Kids Rodeo (Main Bldg. Arena) Chuck Wagon Cook-Off & Dinner Children’s Barn Yard/Petting Zoo WCFA Prince & Princess Contest Live Entertainment – Jerrett Zoch (Acoustic Café) 1st Performance PRCA Rodeo Walker County Youth Calf Scramble WCFA Kick Off Dance – Haley Cole Band & Jessie Keith Whitley featuring Ashlee Hewitt(Main Bldg.)
Monday, April 7 10:00am 10am-1:00pm 4:00pm 4:00pm
5-10:00pm 5-9:00pm 6-7:00pm 7-8:00pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 6:30-8:30pm
NO ADMISSIONS TO THE FAIRGROUNDS AFTER 11:00PM
Saturday, April 5 8:30am 9:00am 10:00am 10:00am-9:00pm 12:00 Noon
12noon-12:00am 1:00pm
2pm-4:00pm 3-3:45pm 4-6:00pm 4:30pm 6:00pm
7:30pm
Broiler Show (Livestock Barn) Senior Citizens’Day (Main Bldg.) General Admission Begins Supervised Project AwardsPresentation (Livestock Show Arena) Carnival Children’s Barn Yard/Petting Zoo Studio C Dance Performance (Main Bldg.) On Pointe Dance Studio (Main Bldg.) Market Lamb Show (Livestock Barn) Little Tykes Rodeo (Rodeo Arena) Live Entertainment – Featuring 2013 WCFA Music Stars (Acoustic Café)
NO ADMISSIONS TO THE FAIRGROUNDS AFTER 10:00PM
WCFA Trail Ride Sign-up (Back Parking Lot) WCFA Trail Ride Begins (Back Parking Lot) General Admission Begins Children’s Barn Yard/Petting Zoo Reception for Dignitaries, Exhibitors, Families and WCFA Members (Main Bldg.) Carnival Opening Ceremonies (Main Bldg.) Crowning of WCFA Queen Live Entertainment – Kenna Danielle (Acoustic Café) Mutton Bustin’ Check-In (Livestock Arena) Mutton Bustin’ Show (Livestock Arena) Chuck Wagon Cook Off & Dinner WCFA Country Star Semi Finals (Main Bldg.) 2nd Performance PRCA Rodeo Walker County Youth Calf
Tuesday, April 8 9:00am
4:00pm 4:00pm 5-10:00pm 5-9:00pm 6:00pm 6-7:00pm 7-8:00pm 6:30-8:00pm
4:00pm 5-9:00pm 5-10:00pm 6:00pm 6:00pm 6:30-8:30pm 8:00pm
March 2014
General Admission Begins Children’s Barn Yard/Petting Zoo Carnival Steer Show (Livestock Barn) Exhibition Barrel Racing (Rodeo Arena) Karaoke (Acoustic Café) Open Barrel Racing
NO ADMISSION TO THE FAIRGROUNDS AFTER 10:00PM
Wednesday, April 9 All Day Sign up for Ranch Rodeo (Call Jessie Johnson 936-524-4785) 9:00am Kindergarten Day 1:30pm Commercial Heifer Show (Livestock Barn)
Walker County Fair Association
Thursday, April 10 4:00pm General Admission Begins 5-9:00pm Children’s Barn Yard/Petting Zoo 5-10:00pm Carnival 5:30-7pm Buyers’ Presale Party w/Live Entertainment- Presley Lewis (Main Bldg.) 7:00pm Premium Junior Livestock Sale (Main Bldg.)
presents
Sow’em, Grow’em & Show’em
Academic Rodeo • Special Kids Rodeo • Talent Review
NO ADMISSIONS TO THE FAIRGROUNDS AFTER 10:00PM
Friday, April 11 1:00pm 4:00pm 4:30-5:00pm 5-12:00pm 5-9:00pm 5:30pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 8:00pm
Carnival General Admission Begins Domino Tournament Sign up (Main Bldg.) Carnival Children’s Barn Yard/Petting Zoo Domino Tournament (Main Bldg.) Scramble Heifer Show (Livestock Barn) Domino Tournament (Main Bldg.) BBQ Cook-off Calcutta (BBQ Stage)
Saturday, April 12 10:00am 10am-9:00pm 12Noon-Midnight 12:00
2-4:30pm 4:30pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm
General Admission Begins Children’s Barn Yard/Petting Zoo Carnival Noon Baked & Canned Goods Auction Begins Followed by Supervised Projects Auction Followed by Art Sale Followed by Horticulture Followed by Freezer Sale (Main Bldg.) Live Entertainment – Justin Fulcher (Acoustic Café) BBQ Awards (BBQ Stage) Monetary Add-On Close (Livestock Office) Ranch Rodeo (Rodeo Arena) WCFA Country Star Finals (MainBldg.)
NO ADMISSIONS TO THE FAIRGROUNDS AFTER 10:00PM
THE 36th Annual n F u th e h w i t h ol e ! w IL Y M FA
WALKER COUNTY
LITTLE TYKE
RODEO Monday • April 7th
6:30 P.M. DOMINO TOURNAMENT (DOUBLE ELIMINATION)
Friday, April 11th
www.walkercountyfair.com or look us up on Facebook®
The Huntsville Item 17
WCFA Parade Country Music Star Thursday, April 3rd 7 p.m. • Downtown Huntsville SPECIAL EVENTS
NO ADMISSIONS TO THE FAIRGROUNDS AFTER 10:00PM
NO ADMISSION TO THE FAIRGROUNDS AFTER 11:00PM
Pre-K Day Rabbit Meat Pen Judging (Livestock Barn) Style Show, Awards and Kids on Parade (Main Bldg.) General Admission Begins Carnival Children’s Barn Yard/Petting Zoo Market Swine Show (Livestock Barn) Faye Burns Dance Studio (Main Bldg.) Hot on Your Heels Dance Studio (Main Bldg.) Live Entertainment – John Sheptock (Acoustic Café)
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
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Tournament - 6:30 pm
Contest Semi-finals Sat., April 5th 6p.m.
WORLD RENOWN WCFA BBQ COOKOFF APRIL 11th & 12th
Jr. LIVESTOCK SALE THURSDAY april 10th • 7pm
WCFA KICKOFF DANCE Jessie Keith Whitley featuring Ashlee Hewitt Opening Band: The Haley Cole Band
presents TWO BIG PERFORMANCES FRIDAY, APR. 4TH • 7:30 P.M. SATuRDAY, APR. 5TH • 7:30 P.M.
ADVANCE RODEO TICKETS AVAILABLE Cavenders Boot City — Huntville Huntsville Farm Supply Prosperity Bank of Huntsville Prosperity Bank of New Waverly Adams Furniture New Waverly Feed & Farm First National Bank of Huntsville
18 The Huntsville Item
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
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cooK-oFF Continued from page 13 able spots with water and electricity, but i can still sell some spots without water and electricity,” he said. Judges will decide which entry is the best in each category by judging the overall appearance of the meat, texture, smell and, most importantly, taste. once the judging is over, awards will be handed out at 4:30 p.m. on april 12. beaird changed the format of the awards process last year by declaring an overall winner after averaging the four main meat categories, and this year’s competition will keep the new format. “last year i changed it to an overall winner, by averaging the four main meat categories and everyone seemed to like it. We sent out a survey to every team and i got a
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
good response, so we are doing that again this year,” he said. the overall winner of the competition will receive $15 from each team’s entry fee, as well as a trophy and their entry fee for next year’s competition paid off. the top three teams in the nine categories, which includes the kids category, will receive a trophy as well. People who come to watch the barbecue competition will be able to sample some of the teams’ cooking as well, if the teams permit it. “there are several teams that will feed the community there at no charge, so people can come out and get a free meal,” beaird said. applications for the competition can be found on the Walker county Fair website in the contests link. the last day to enter into the competition is april 11 at 5 p.m.
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20 The Huntsville Item
scramble Continued from page 10 catch a calf in that big arena. they get tired pretty quickly.” Participants in the scramble must live or go to school in Walker county and sign up through an FFa chapter or through 4-H clubs. they can be anywhere from 12 years old up to a junior in high school, as well as weigh at least 100 pounds for safety reasons. once the kids catch a calf and bring it back to the center of the arena, they will get to take a different calf (donated by local ranchers to the calf scramble program) home and raise it for show in next year’s county fair. Jeff rich, the chairman of the calf scramble committee, believes that the event is not only a fun one, but a way to teach kids valuable life lessons. “the purpose of it is that they learn the responsibility of raising, taking care of the calf and what it actually takes financially to raise one,” he said. “it just teaches them responsibility and teaches them the ins and outs of what it
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
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“When the kids are finished with this program, they are very responsible and mature young people. over the years, the kids who have come through the program have turned out to be some of the most amazing kids that we have in our county.” JeFF RiCH / Chairman of Walker County Fair’s calf scramble committee would take to raise cows for a living.” both davis and rich believe the calf scramble program and county fair help foster positive development of the youth of the county. “When the kids are finished with this program, they are very responsible and mature young people,” rich said. “over the years, the kids who have come through the program have turned out to be some of the most amazing kids that we have in our county.” “other than church and the good lord, i don’t think there is anything more wholesome than the county fair for a kid,” added
HunTSville iTem File pHoTo
Amber Adams performs the last song of the night at the 2013 Walker County Fair Association’s Country music Star contest. minutes later the judges and the crowd named Adams the winner.
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The Huntsville Item 21
Volunteers make Walker County Fair more special by Winston sPencer WsPencer@itemonline.com
the Walker county Fair and rodeo has a long storied history. However, few realize the tremendous effort evolved in what makes an event like this possible. long before the carnival rides, livestock shows and rodeo events, the true origin of the fair begins within the wholesome vol-
“(Volunteers) may start out helping to put up a pen or repair something. anything they can do to help out. That’s the type of people we want because they have a service heart.” BoBBY lAne / president of Walker County Fair Association unteer spirit of the more than 300 individuals involved behind the scenes. “many start out simply by having an
interest in just helping out,” said bobby lane, president of the Walker county Fair association (WcFa). “some may have a child who maybe showing something, or they just want to be a part of our agricultural heritage. “(volunteers) may start out helping to put up a pen or repair something. anything they can do to help out. that’s the type of people we want because they have a service heart.” the fair is also made up of numerous committees which meet once a month and are already making plans for next year’s event. “We keep a list in the livestock office, so anyone who has an idea on how to improve something can come in and write it down,” lane said. “these can include infrastructure, internet, phone service, repairs or
even events.” unlike many other fairs around the state, the Walker county version is actually owned by the WcFa. this helps to keep overhead low, which is passed on to the public in the form of low-ticket prices. there is also the work of people like John boyce and larry brown, who are in charge of maintenance on the fairgrounds. additionally, the efforts of Phyllis billnoskie who handles the renters insurance, a must in today’s economy, cannot be overlooked. the Walker county sheriff’s office and emergency personnel work to keep the fair safe. the texas department of criminal Justice also works behind the scenes, providing trustees who mow the grass and perform other duties that make the fair a major event. “not enough can be said about the businesses that contribute so much to the fair or the people who come out and enjoy all the activities and spread the word about our fair,” lane added. “not to mention the individuals who support with donations. it’s the supportive people who make the fair possible.”
22 The Huntsville Item
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
Rewarded for his hard work at right, Huntsville intermediate student Jayce miller, center, earned grand champion honors at the 2013 market swine show at the Walker county Fair.
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The Huntsville Item 23
24 The Huntsville Item
Who’s got the best broilers in Walker County? Soon, we’re going to know the answer to that question and many, many more. Judges are anxious to do their thing again at the Walker County Fair’s youth livestock shows. The best broilers, lamb, swine, goats, steers, broilers and rabbits will be crowned during the market meat shows, which start next week at the Walker County Fairgrounds. Judges will also determine the top scramble and commercial heifers during the fair’s run, which kicks off with a parade through downtown Huntsville on Thursday evening. HunTSville iTem File pHoTo
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rodeo Continued from page 5 county Fair and rodeo. “We’ll have 455 contestants here. We’ll have some from Washington state as well as a few from Florida, iowa and even north dakota.” the Walker county rodeo comes on the heels of rodeoHouston that was held march 4-23 at reliant Park in Houston. due to the close proximity in time and distance to the Houston rodeo, the Walker county rodeo has been able to bring in top talent to compete. “We’ll have numerous cowboys who competed in the national Finals rodeo in saddle bronc riding, including chad Ferley, and bull riding. We’ve got team ropers that are ranked in the top 20,” Green said. “basically, we’ve got world champions in every event.” the feedback about the Walker county Fair and rodeo from cowboys and cowgirls who travel all over the country to the premier rodeos has been positive. “they say they like Huntsville’s rodeo. it pays good. it rains pretty much every year and they like to play in the mud,” Green said. “People like going to the Houston rodeo.
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
normally, we’re the week after. over the past few years, our rodeo has gotten larger and larger.” the payout has also increased, Green said. the winner of each event will bank between $2,500 and $3,000. of the several different events that make up the rodeo such as bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping and tie-down roping, the events that bring out the most folks are saddle bronc and bull riding. “Saddle bronc has a bunch of big buckers,” Green said. “that’s a classic event and people want to see those big horses. “bull riding is also a big event. We’ve got eight or nine guys who were in the national Finals rodeo like trey benton iii, chandler bownds and cody teel (2011 national Finals rodeo champion bull rider).” Green added that it takes plenty of planning and preparation to make sure that the rodeo goes on without a hitch. “it’s crazy that it’s almost here,” he said. “a whole lot of stuff goes into it. We’re excited. We’re ready. all that’s left is just taking care of all of the little things.” the slack competition (barrels, steer roping and other timed events) will be held on april 3. the other rodeo performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. on the evenings of april 4 and 5 at the rodeo arena.
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26 The Huntsville Item
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
vocabulary Continued from page 30
March 2014
Piggin’ string — this is a small soft rope about six feet long used by calf ropers to tie the animal’s feet together. Rank — this term is used to describe an animal that is very hard to ride. Scooter — this is an animal that pivots on the front feet and scoots the back end around, instead of pivoting on the front feet and kicking the hind feet. Tippy toe — When a horse or bull walks on its front legs when most of their weight is off the ground. Union animal — describes an animal that bucks until the sound of the 8-second whistle, then quits.
with its hind feet forward rather than kicking out behind. Mugger — term for the cowboy that gets a firm hold on the horse’s neck during the Wild Horse race. this allows the rider to put the saddle on the horse. Neck rope — this is a rope that is affixed to an animal’s neck in the timed events. it is used to trip the barrier in front of the contestant to assure the animal a head start. Out the backdoor — this is the term The Lake Koocanusa Arena provided used when the rider is thrown over the back information for this article. end of an animal.
March 2014
SHoW Continued from page 7 “in the meat market competition, judges are looking for muscle and type of animal the consumer needs and desires,” lepley said. “they are also looking for conformation that the animal is capable to get that muscle to the end of the market process.” the top 15 animals in each meat market show are selected for the premium sale, which will be held april 10 at 7 p.m. in the main building at the fairgrounds. local businesses and residents bid to pay top dollar to help these young exhibitors with costs of raising their animals, plus tuck a little away for college. last year, the premium sale in Walker county brought in more than $400,000. For those young people interested in other aspects of raising livestock, there are the commercial and scramble heifer shows at the fair. “in these breeding shows, the judges are
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
looking for fertility and production ability,” lepley said. “they are looking for females that can produce offspring with desired muscle condition and pattern.” the livestock show kicks off april 6 with the goat show at 6 p.m. the broiler show is april 7 at 10 a.m. followed later in the day by the lamb competition at 6 p.m. rabbits will be judged april 8 at 9 a.m. and the swine show will take place at 6 p.m. the commercial heifer show is slated for 1:30 p.m. on april 9 and steers will be judged at 6 p.m. the scramble heifer show is scheduled for april 11 at 6 p.m. last year’s grand champion winners at the livestock show were Jared lampson (steer); Jayce miller (swine); brennen rushing (lamb); Shelby lepley (goat); riley Hooks (broilers); tyler Koonce (rabbits); and ryan Slott (commercial heifers. reserve grand champion honors went to Kendyll Williams (steer); Seth adams (swine); cody corcoran (lamb); morgan nettuno (goat); braden brock (broilers); brady Hooks (rabbits) and brice davis (commercial heifers).
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28 The Huntsville Item
comPetition Continued from page 8 have right here in Walker county,” Fox boasts. “i encourage everyone to come out and see.” although the deadline to enter the country music Star contest has already passed, the 20-or-so contestants who signed up have already gone through auditions. most will perform at the semifinal competition on Saturday, april 5, at 6 p.m. at the main stage on the fairgrounds. From there, 10 finalists will be chosen and critiqued before the final show on Saturday, april 12, at 7 p.m. the audience will also vote and makes up 40 percent of the final score. after the main show is over on both nights, Fox said, the organizers will invite any children up on stage to do whatever talent they want. this has been a tradition for several years, according to Fox. “they are always the best entertainment,” Fox said. “this year, we’re going to pick children from the first night to come back and so something different during the finals.” there are also several other events that aim outside the rodeo arena. the 42 domino double-elimination tournament will take place on Friday, april 11 starting at 5:30 p.m. registration is from 4:30 to 5 p.m. in the main building. entry fee is $5 and players are asked to bring their own partner, although there may be an opportunity to be matched with someone, if a player is available. For more information, call John Hooks at (936) 661-
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
1660. the academic rodeo features four contests for children: essay contest, spelling bee, math bee and a craft project. the essay contest is for students in grades K through 8; spelling bee for grades 1 through 8; math bee for grades 1 through 8; and craft project for grades K through 4. the bees will take place on Sunday, april 6, at 2 p.m. registration is from 1 to 2 p.m. in the main building. For more information, call lisa branch at (936) 295-4579. the clothing competition is for girls and boys. it has two competitions for construction and showmanship. the age divisions are 9-10, 11-13, 14-18 and clover Kids. the clothing judging will take place on tuesday, april 8, in the main building. a style show, awards and “kids on parade” will take place the same day at 4 p.m. at the same location. For more information, contact Kimberly Sapp at (936) 661-8383. the fine arts contest is open to both adults and youth. the youth divisions are divided into elementary, junior high and high school categories. adults division is not split up. check-in will be Friday, april 4, from 4 to 5 p.m. at the main building, followed by judging at 6 p.m. Winners will participate in the auction at noon on Saturday, april 12. For more information, call John Fuller or Jennifer barnes at (936) 438-4048 or (936) 291-6153. FFa and 4-H students are participating in the horticulture competition that has categories of bedding plants, vegetables, hanging flowers, hanging foliage, 6-inch flowering, 6-inch foliage, decorative container, and creative containers. the photography contest is open to both adults and children as well. the divisions are texas scenic, animals, peo-
March 2014
ple, rodeo/fair and still life. Photography check-out will be Saturday, april 12, from 10 a.m. to noon. For more information contact lynn Hubbard at (832) 642-2189. the quilting competition include small, medium, large and wall quilts that are either machine- or hand-quilted. check-in is Friday, april 4, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Judging is on monday, april 7, from 8 a.m. to noon. the quilts will hang from monday, april 7 to Friday, april 12. contact Helen belcher at (936) 291-1104 for more information. FFa and 4-H students are also competing in supervised construction projects. they are metal working, indoor and outdoor woodworking, wildlife, trailers, ag equipment and livestock equipment. Winning projects will be auctioned Saturday, april 12, at noon.
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The Huntsville Item 29
Rodeo starts with slack Before the bull riders and rankest bulls come to town next weekend, some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top cowboys and cowgirls, and plenty of young men and women who aspire to be the best, will compete for spots in the two pro rodeo performances during weekday slack rodeos. on thursday, cowboys and cowgirls will ride against time in the steer roping, barrel racing, tie-down roping, steer wrestling and team roping events. Admission to the slack rodeo is free. Action begins thursday at 9 a.m. huntsvIlle Item fIle photo
30 The Huntsville Item
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Rodeo vocabulary: 101 Fans can brush up on their terminology before weekend performances by brandon K. Scott brandonS@itemonline.com
anyone who’s ever done rodeo knows there’s a different vernacular in this world that can easily confuse the uninitiated. For example, the rodeo clown is not only an entertainer but an enforcer as well. bull riders rely on the clowns to save their lives just before the bull runs them over. that’s why the rodeo clown is referred to as the bullfighter. but that’s an easy reference. do you know what a high roller or a honker is? What about a lounger? take a look at this list and hopefully it can sharpen your rodeo vocabulary from aZ, or actually a-u minus a “Q,” because we couldn’t come up with anything beyond that. Feel free to add your thoughts on the Huntsville item Facebook page, or on twitter at @Huntsvilleitem using the hashtag #rodeovocab. Arm Jerker — this refers to a horse or bull that is really stout and bucks with a lot of power. the bucking tends to result in a huge amount of pull on the contestant’s arm. Blooper — an animal with very little bucking ability that jumps and kicks or just runs around the arena. Chute fighter — this is what rodeo folks call a rough stock animal that will not stand still and tries to fight the cowboy before he leaves the chute. Dally — the turn of the rope around the saddle horn after the animal has been caught. Entry fee — of course, everything comes down to the almighty dollar. Perhaps the easiest term, this refers to the money paid by the contestant before competing in a rodeo. contestants must pay separate entry fees for each event they enter. Freight trained — When a contestant or clown gets run over by a bull traveling at top speed. Grabbing the apple — this is the term
Item fIle photo
Cowboys hope they draw an “arm jerker” rather than a “blooper.” to get a high score and a big paycheck, the best bull and bronc riders need a little luck with the animals they ride.
used when a saddle bronc rider touches any part of the saddle with their free hand during the eight-second ride. also known as “pulling leather” and causes the rider to be disqualified. Heeler — not a healer, but a heeler. this is the cowboy that ropes the hind legs
of the steer in team roping. In the well — this is the term used to describe when a contestant comes off an animal on the inside of the spin. Jerk down — When after roping the calf, the roper flips the calf straight over backwards. this can sometimes result in
disqualification. Kack — this is the term used to describe the saddle used by saddle bronc riders. Lounger — When a horse that thrusts See vocabulary, page 26
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The Huntsville Item 31
32 The Huntsville Item
Walker County Fair & Rodeo
March 2014