58 minute read
NJSS ShorthornPlus Steer Show
National Junior Shorthorn Steer Show
48 Head – Judge: Krisha Geffert
by Lily Gisclair
Grand Champion ShorthornPlus Prospect Steer was awarded to LP Barret, exhibited by Wyatt Oldham, Tolar, Texas.
Grand Champion ShorthornPlus Market Steer was awarded to SFF Ice Cube 109 LL, exhibited by Rylan Jester, Mooreland, Ind. Reserve Grand Champion ShorthornPlus Prospect Steer, Darla’s Buddy, exhibited by Darla Fesmire, Delaware, Okla.
Reserve Grand Champion ShorthornPlus Market Steer, SMFC SMF Ethan, exhibited by Gracie Giles, Clinton, Tenn.
The ShorthornPlus Bred and Owned and Owned Market and Prospect Steer Show combined has a total of forty-eight steers exhibited and evaluated by Krisha Geffert.
The Grand Champion ShorthornPlus Prospect Steer was awarded to LP Barret, exhibited by Wyatt Oldham of Tolar, Texas. LP Barret is a May son of FSF Near Perfect.
Geffert selected Darla’s Buddy as Reserve Grand Champion ShorthornPlus Prospect Steer, son of AF Red Neck Roan 1913, exhibited by Darla Fesmire of Delaware, Okla.
Rylan Jester of Mooreland, Ind. Exhibited the Grand Champion ShorthornPlus Market Steer, SFF Ice Cube 109 LL, son of CSF Long Look HC 706 ET.
Reserve Grand Champion
ShorthornPlus Market Steer went to SMFC SMF Ethan, son of Bitcoin/ SMFC Landcruiser. SMFC SMF Ethan was exhibited by Gracie Giles of Clinton, Tenn.
The Grand Champion Bred and Owned ShorthornPlus Steer was METZ Snip, son of Here I Am. METZ Snip was exhibited by Colby Metzger of Charleston, Ill.
Reserve Grand Champion Bred and Owned ShorthornPlus Steer went
Grand Champion Bred & Owned ShorthornPlus Steer was awarded to METZ Snip, exhibited by Colby Metzger, Charleston, Ill. Reserve Grand Champion Bred & Owned ShorthornPlus Steer, VWSF Just A Bit Outside 115J, exhibited by Lane VanderWal, Volga, S.D.
to VWSF Just A Bit Outside 115J, exhibited by Lane VanderWal of Volga, S.D. VWSF Just A but Outside 115J is a son of DJS The Outsider.
ShorthornPlus Steer Class Placings:
Class 1: ShorthornPlus Prospect
Steers (175 – 565 Wt.) – (4 Entries): 1) AC RC Fancy’s Trooper 213, Addison Campbell of Eaton, Ohio; 2) RNR Knockout, Mckenna Renner, North Platte, Neb.; 3) CMSC Curly, Cole Mobley, Diagonal, Iowa.
Class 2: ShorthornPlus Prospect
Steers (645 – 785 Wt.) – (4 Entries): 1) Darlas Buddy, Darla Fesmire, Delaware, Okla.; 2) AD Mr Marty ET, Addison Dick, Nowata, Okla.; 3) Lane’s Dinger, Hudson Lane, Eucha, Okla.
Class 3: ShorthornPlus Prospect
Steers (800 – 890 Wt.) – (6 Entries): 1) LP Barret, Wyatt Oldham, Tolar, Texas; 2) MFSC Jupiter, Vivian McGaugh, Carrollton, Mo.; 3) SLBL Jackpot 225J ET, McKayla Hunt, Wellston, Okla.
Class 1: ShorthornPlus Market
Steers (925 – 950 Wt.) – (2 Entries): 1) TRNR Mr. 471, Maddie Weaber, Wamego, Kan.; 2) SSCC Little Tim, Cora Stade, Prior Lake, Minn.
Class 2: ShorthornPlus Market Steers (1000 – 1010 Wt.) – (5 Entries): 1) Angry Johnny, Jansen Gerstner, Frankfort, Kan.; 2) TTCC Snoopy, Weston Ward, Greens Fork, Ind. 3) Howie, Ryleigh Obrecht, Harlan, Iowa.
Class 3: ShorthornPlus Market
Steers (1025 – 1090 Wt.) – (5 Entries): 1) TL Goldie 4J, Karissa Rasch, Manchester, Mich.; 2) VWSF Just A Bit Outside 115J, Lane Vanderwal, Volga, S.D.; 3) Howie, Ryleigh Obrecht, Harlan, Iowa.
Class 4: ShorthornPlus Market
Steers (1105 – 1145 Wt.) – (6 Entries): 1) BL Lucifer, Blaire Lamon, Cottage Grove, Tenn.; 2) BFR Boris 115J, Nora Kate McGaugh, Carrollton, Mo.; 3) AD Addi’s Kowalski, Addison Dick, Nowata, Okla.
Class 5: ShorthornPlus Market
Steers (1160 – 1190 Wt.) – (6 Entries): 1) Compton’s Jagger 23J, Annalynn Beach, Palmyra, Neb.; 2) RJC Mr Here I Am 162J, Taylor Nulik, Hugoton, Kan.; 3) Tank, Sarah Mitchell, Charles City, Iowa.
Class 6: ShorthornPlus Market
Steers (1225 – 1290 Wt.) – (7 Entries): 1) METZ Snip, Colby Metzger, Charleston, Ill.; 2) TRN Rip, Alexa Turner, Mahomet, Ill.; 3) BONL Sinful Randy, 118J ET, Kylee Dameron, Silex, Mo.
Class 7: ShorthornPlus Market Steers (1300 – 1250 Wt.) – (3 Entries): 1) SFF Ice Cube 109 LL, Rylan Jester, Mooreland, Ind.; 2) SMFC SMF Ethan, Gracie Giles, Clinton, Tenn.; 3) NPS Big =Man, Lane Hull, Noblesville, Ind.
Each year at the National Junior Shorthorn Show and Youth Conference each state competes for the title of Outstanding State. This honor is selected based on the state’s junior member’s combined points in contests, donations for the sock drive, and participation throughout the week of Junior Nationals.
This year’s Mentor and Apprentice program was literally “Out of this World”! We had over sixty kids participate in this year’s program. The Mentor and Apprentice program is where Senior and Intermediate contestants are partnered with Prospectors 1 and 2 to complete numerous activities throughout the week and make new friendships and relationships. Day one consisted of groups getting to know their partners and decorating an alien to match their personality. Day two, participants walked
The 2022 Outstanding State was Oklahoma; who had 76 exhibitors and 178 head of cattle this year! These junior members’ eagerness to participate was out of this world and we would like to congratulate everyone from Oklahoma!
around the barn selling moon stress balls to throw in little buckets and whoever makes it in wins a trim chute donated by Sullivan Supply. Day 3, groups went on a scavenger hunt throughout the barns looking for signatures from Junior Board Candidates, the National Lassie Queen, the Sullivan Supply booth, interns, and many more.
Being a part of this program has positively impacted me in so many ways. I have met some of my best friends through this program and it is exciting to see the prospectors that I mentored a couple years ago become mentors themselves. Thank you for a fantastic week and I can’t wait to do it all over next year in Des Moines, Iowa!
Outstanding State Winner, Oklahoma.
Mentor/Apprentice & The Golden Comb
by Meredith Behrens
The Golden Comb Award. Mentor Apprentice Awards.
Winners of the Golden Comb and bragging rights for being “experts of the trade”: - Emily Bollum with apprentice
Jade McPeak.
The Mentor/Apprentice Team that sold the most moon balls, and the winners of the award was: Karly Goetz
from Ohio with apprentices Teegan
and Carly. =
by Sara Frost
Back Row L to R: Haylee Ferguson, Brandon Barr, Bill Rasor, Reagan Smithers, Faye Smith; Front Row L to R: Emily Bollum, Skyler Ward, Jewel Thompson, Grace Rincker, Lane VanderWal. Not Pictured: Tyler Loudon. Sheridan Fox, reciepient of the Jared and Justin Bedwell Memorial Scholarship, pictured with the Bedwell Family.
Every year, the Shorthorn Foundation, and the American Shorthorn Association (ASA) work together and sponsor multiple scholarships for members of the American Junior Shorthorn Association (AJSA). Both the Shorthorn Foundation and ASA provide opportunities for AJSA members to receive scholarships that will help them continue their academic growth while still being active within the Shorthorn community and furthering the breed. The Foundation, with the sponsoring families, presented scholarships to 11 estimable juniors.
Jared and Justin Bedwell Memorial Scholarship:
The $1, 500 Jared & Justin Bedwell Memorial Scholarship is sponsored by the family of Jared & Justin Bedwell in cooperation with The Shorthorn Foundation and awarded to a high school senior, college freshman or college sophomore based upon the applicants’ involvement, future goals and career plans in Agriculture, college GPA, and character references. This scholarship was created to honor the Bedwell brothers who were both active AJSA members. This year’s recipient is Sheridan Fox, Fox is the daughter of Brian and Emily Fox from Kanawha, Iowa. Fox is currently a freshman at Iowa State University, majoring in Animal Science. “Throughout my life I have been heavily involved in multiple agriculture experiences. I started my involvement by growing up showing livestock, mainly cattle. Then it began to expand and grow more, throughout elementary, high school, and now parts of college I was/am heavily involved in 4-H and FFA at local, state, and national levels, as well as being heavily involved within the beef and shorthorn industry.” Says Fox, “Whether it was competing showing livestock, reciting the creed for FFA, or going on those trips with your breed association, it has all helped me to grow and truly understand the benefits of being involved in an agriculture background and the opportunities it had to offer those who choose to stay involved.”
Lyle and Katharyn Dewitt Memorial Scholarship:
This $1,500 scholarship is sponsored by the Shorthorn Foundation and awarded to high school seniors or college freshmen based upon Shorthorn involvement, grades, need and participation in other activities. This year, Reagan Smithers was awarded the Dewitt scholarship. Smithers is daughter to Jason Smithers and Noelle Flesner from Pittsfield, Illinois. She plans to attend the University of Illinois where she will major in Biology.
“’Cattle.’ The word that captures my attention and makes me immediately jump into someone’s conversation when I hear it. No matter how boring the conversation is, I will be interested in it and have something to say because of how passionate I am about the show cattle industry.” Smithers explains, “When I was a little girl, most kids my age would ask for a puppy as a pet. I asked for a calf to show. I was always let down until I was old enough to be in 4H. In the meantime, I would help my older sister, Kameron, wash and work on her heifers and steers. In her last show season, I remember the moment that my heart stopped as the judge slapped the back of her Shorthorn steer when he chose her as the Reserve Grand Champion Land of Lincoln at the Illinois State Fair. I was so proud of her accomplishment, but it was also a team effort. I was always the helping hand in the makeup area before she took her first step into the ring. The second I was able to show with the
Jesse M. and Jennie S. Duckett Memorial Scholarship:
The Jesse M. and Jennie S. Duckett Memorial Scholarship is a $1,500 award for a high school senior or college freshmen, based on recipient’s involvement in agriculture, educational background, ACT score, and high school or college GPA. Brandon Barr was honored to receive the Dewitt Scholarship. Barr is son to Jeff and Jill Barr from Xenia, Ohio. Barr is currently attending Wilmington College where he is majoring in Agricultural Business.
“Agriculture is the most important part of my life right now, and it will continue to be for the rest of my life. Agriculture impacts me at all points of my day. I start out by going to classes and labs at school, and during those classes, I am always learning about agriculture with both old and new concepts and ideas. I head home on the weekends and get ready to head up to the farm and take care of our herd of cattle. I wash my show calves just about every day, feed our growing herd of Shorthorn cattle, and complete whatever odd jobs need to be done. I am always working on various projects and plans to improve our farm.” Barr explains, “Showing cattle takes up a lot of my time during the weekends and especially in the summer, as I am very
competitive and travel all over the country to show. Even though I am out of 4-H, I am now an advisor, helping the young kids in my club with their beef projects. With a few more years left to show at Junior Nationals and the Ohio BEST shows, I am certain that agriculture will continue to be a major part of my life.”
Mike Dugdale Memorial Scholarship:
This Scholarship was created in the memory of Mike Dugdale, who had a large impact on the shorthorn breed before his passing in 2006. Dugdale took part in the first importation of Irish Shorthorns in the late 70’s and early 80’s. Dugdale held positions for both the Iowa and Nebraska State Shorthorn Associations, and was elected to the American Shorthorn Association board of directors in the early 80’s. The Mike Dugdale Memorial Scholarship is presented to a collegiate upperclassman that is an active AJSA member with a sincere interest in bettering the beef cattle industry after college. The $1,500 Dugdale Scholarship was presented to Lane VanderWal, the son of Kevin and Kari VanderWal from Volga, South Dakota. VanderWal is currently attending Wayne State College in Wayne, Nebraska and majoring in Applied Human and Sports Physiology.
“All I have ever known is Shorthorn cattle. It is the only National Junior show we exhibit at and the only breed or breed composite that I have shown. Shorthorns have sparked my interest in the beef cattle industry from an early age.” Said VanderWal, “It is my intention to remain part of our family’s operation after college. My major is Applied Human and Sports Physiology which could lead to a Physical Therapy career, but my involvement in our family farm (which is nearly a century farm now) and desire to remain in agriculture will not be diminished.”
Charles B. “Chuck” Leemon Memorial Scholarship:
The $2,500 Charles B. “Chuck” Leemon Memorial Scholarship is sponsored by the family of Chuck Leemon in cooperation with the Shorthorn Foundation and awarded to a college student based upon the applicant’s involvement, future goals and career plans in agriculture, college GPA and character references. Emily Bollum is the recipient of the Charles B. Leemon Memorial Scholarship this year. Bollum is daughter to Cory and Mary Bollum of Austin, Minnesota. Bollum is currently attending Iowa State University and majoring in Agricultural Business.
“My involvement with Agriculture started because my family operates a 5th generation farm, where we produce purebred shorthorn cattle and row crops. From a young age, I have been helping on the farm. I watched as my parents and brothers worked with the cattle and exhibited them at different shows.” Bollum says “This made me so excited for when I could show alongside them. Ever since my first show, my passion has continued to grow, and I have gotten more involved with our operation and the agriculture industry. Showing cattle became my passion and something I looked forward to every year.”
Don Longley Memorial Scholarships:
Don Longley was a past publisher of the Shorthorn World magazine. He followed in his father’s footsteps and continued the empire of the Shorthorn magazine. He insisted on his staff attending every Shorthorn show, sale and conference possible in order to bring Shorthorn breeders the most accurate and expansive information of the time. Longley worked tirelessly to promote the breed, and his greatest delight was to publish a journalistic superior book. The Shorthorn World was never the same after the Longley era, with more than 50 years of father-and-son work towards the magazine and breed.
Each year, four $1,500 Longley Memorial Scholarships are awarded. The scholarships are sponsored by the Shorthorn Foundation and awarded to high school seniors or college freshmen based upon Shorthorn involvement, grades, need and participation in other activities. This year’s recipients are Grace Rincker, Haylee Ferguson, Jewel Thompson, and Skyler Ward.
Grace Rincker is daughter of Doug and Marla Rincker from Strasburg, Illinois. She is currently attending Lake Land College and majoring in Agricultural Communications.
Haylee Ferguson is daughter to Kevin and Phyllis Ferguson from Rockvale, Tennessee. She is currently attending the university of Tennessee and majoring in Food and Agricultural Business.
Jewel Thompson is daughter to Phillip and Holli Thompson from Opelika, Alabama. She is planning on attending Claredon College and major in Agricultural Education.
Skyler Ward is daughter to Chad and Mindy Ward from New Paris, Ohio. She is planning on attending Lake Land College and major in Animal Sciences.
John Miller Scholarship:
The $2,500 John Miller Scholarship is awarded to collegiate upperclassmen (including trade schools) that are active AJSA members with an emphasis placed on those having some interest in making Shorthorns more viable in the commercial cattle industry. The Miller Scholarship was awarded to Faye Smith this year. Smith is daughter to Troy and Sommer Smith, from Walton, Kansas. Smith is currently attending Kansas State University and majoring in Agricultural Communications and Journalism.
“The involvement that I have been able to experience in the agricultural industry has been one that I can say I am proud of. Throughout my life, I have been dedicated to being a proud beef producer and advocate by joining many youth organizations and job opportunities to connect me to the beef and greater agricultural industry” Smith said “Alongside my family, we own and operate MBAR Shorthorns. A purebred and appendix Cow-Calf operation that is focused on breeding genetics that is practical, and profitable to our customers in our area. Utilizing the maternal traits of the Shorthorn breed, alongside the carcass traits of the Angus breed, we have been able to capitalize on our market in south-central Kansas. Black cattle sell for an increasingly high premium, so being able to utilize both breeds’ genetics for a complete product has been extremely rewarding. Alongside this, I have been able to see the utilization of high-quality genetics on our purebred cattle to continue practicality in the show ring.”
John C. “Jack” Ragsdale Scholarship:
The $1,500 Jack Ragsdale Scholarship is awarded to a high school senior or college freshman who is an active AJSA member with a sincere interest in learning how to evaluate livestock and an appreciation for the purebred livestock industry. Applicants wrote an essay on “The Value of the Whole Herd Reporting Program to the Shorthorn Breed.” This year, Tyler Loudon was awarded with the scholarship. Tyler is son to Tim and Karen Loudon, from Creston, Iowa. He is planning to attend Oklahoma State University and major in Animal Science and Agricultural Business.
“Cattle showing is a family experience. My parents both showed livestock growing up. I have been fortunate to travel to many states and participate in contests and shows. What I didn’t know would happen is that I would have the opportunity to meet and work with so many outstanding youth and adults.” Loudon says “I was recently elected to the National Junior Maine-Anjou Board. It is an honor to serve and work for the youth that elected me to this position, and I only hope that I can make their journey in the livestock industry as fulfilling as mine.”
Outstanding Junior Board Member Scholarship:
The $500 Outstanding Junior Board Member Scholarship was created to honor a Junior Board Member who has gone above and beyond in their service to the American Junior Shorthorn Association during their time in office. This recipient has been selected by the members themselves in acknowledgment of their hard work and determination.
Sheridan is daughter of Brian and Emily Fox, from Kanawha Iowa. Sheridan is currently a freshman at Iowa State University, majoring in Animal Science.
“Throughout my life I have been heavily involved in multiple agriculture experiences. I started my involvement by growing up showing livestock, mainly cattle. Then it began to expand and grow more, throughout elementary, high school, and now parts of college I was/am heavily involved in 4-H and FFA at local, state, and national levels, as well as being heavily involved within the beef and shorthorn industry.” Says Fox, “Whether it was competing showing livestock, reciting the creed for FFA, or going on those trips with your breed association, it has all helped me to grow and truly understand the benefits of being involved in an agriculture background and the opportunities it had to offer those who choose to stay involved.”=
The competition this year for the state cook-off and tailgate party was out of this world. Many states rose to the challenge of providing food samples that related to their state: whether it was catfish from Mississippi or blue and gold sliders from Oklahoma, each state did an outstanding job! Participating states were able to win points for the outstanding state through exhibitors and parents who voted for their favorite food by placing their ticket in the state’s jar. A big thank you to the states who participated in this year’s NJSS State Tailgate Contest and congratulations to Oklahoma for being our winner!
Another event that happened on Thursday evening was the cornhole
At the 2022 National Junior Shorthorn Show, for the second year, the cow cut outs were sent out throughout the barns to decorate state stalls and fundraiser for the AJSA.
As cows entered the bars, the galaxy decorated cut outs hit the stalls as well. They moved among states, from stall to stall, receiving signatures from juniors and their families.
Towards the end of the week, the cows made their debut at the awards ceremony where they were auctioned off and found permanent stalls to call their own. The four cows auctioned off for a total of $4,500. Two of the four cows were purchased by Little Cedar Cattle Co. The third cow was purchased by LSA Shorthorns. And finally, the fourth cow was purchased by Waukaru Farms.
It was another successful year, and we want to thank all of the Shorthorn family for supporting the show and their juniors. = tournament. This year we had fifty-eight teams participate and even more fans to help cheer them on! At the very end it came between a team from Alabama and Indiana and it was a close game until Alabama took the lead and won! Congratulations too Clay Lynn and Landon Steele for winning a custom set of cornhole boards that represents the AJSA.
And lastly, Thursday ended with an unforgettable concert by Curtis Grimes. Start getting your state’s snacks, perfect your cornhole skills, and keep watch for announcements of next year’s plans in Des Moines, Iowa!
State Cook-Off/Tailgate Party Winners:
1.Oklahoma 2.Indiana 3.Illinois 4.Texas 5.Ohio =
Cow Cutout - Fundraiser
by Sara Frost
by Korbin Collins
PI Showmanship Winners.
PII Showmanship Winners.
Intermediate Showmanship Winners.
Senior Showmanship Winners.
Wednesday morning came early, and it was hot, but let me tell you, in the show ring, things were heating up! We started Wednesday morning with one of the favorite contests of the week. From Seniors to Prospector I game faces were on and fierce. The great thing about showmanship is that it allows the exhibitors to show off all the hard work they have put in at home working with their animals. Working with their animal also shows the knowledge they have of the shorthorn breed.
The judges for Seniors and Prospector I was Danny and Amanda Davis from Kansas, and on the other side of the fence were Andrew and Haley Chandler from Missouri.
Wednesday evening, the top ten seniors were able to put their work to the test. Senior showman was allotted 45 minutes to fit their animal to get it ready for the final showdown. After 45 minutes of right, things started to heat up again. All four judges came together to evaluate and place the top ten seniors. But before they did that worked with them several times before they crowned their Grand Champion Senior Showman.
Congratulations to the following exhibitors:
Prospector I:
1. Alyana Caulfield, S.D. 2. Brooklyn Frazier, Okla. 3. Brody Grathwohl, Kan. 4. Maddox Reedy, Ill. 5. Corbin Curoe, Iowa
Prospector II:
1. Kolten Greenhorn, Ohio 2. Kinlynn Dryer, Ill. 3. Josie Heter, Kan. 4. Kadin Kinder Worthington, Okla. 5. Sheridan Soules, Okla.
Intermediate:
1. Karly Goetz, Ohio 2. Carter Kornegay, Okla. 3. Emilee Munchrath, Texas 4. Kesler Collins, Ill. 5. Abby Bratcher, Ind. 6. Shyan Bennett, Ind. 7. Gracie Giles, Tenn. 8. Rylan Jester, Ind. 9. Houston Ferree, Ind. 10. Destiny White, Okla.
Senior:
1. Kyia Hendrickson, Mont. 2. Brayden DeBorde, Texas 3. John Cox, Ky. 4. Fulton Kennedy, Ohio 5. Skyler Ward, Ohio 6. Faye Smith, Kan. 7. Jaylee Happe, Iowa 8. Alyssa Carter, Ohio 9. Lane Blankinship, Okla. 10. Emma Arnett, Ohio =
by Xavier Ferris
This year our young exhibitors laid the smackdown on team salesmanship! From a Selling calves or embryos, to trans ova products and the exhibitors themselves, many amazing sales pitches were thrown at our judges. The contest consisted of a team composed of two contestants who tried to wow the judges with their amazing talents and wow the judges they did! The winners for each division are as follows!
Prospector I:
1. Kelby Worthington, Okla. & Sam Parker, Okla. 2. Piper Cates, Ind. & Jaylyn Humphreys, Ind. 3. Talia Ferguson, Okla. & Kennedy Arthur, Okla. 4. Adalynn Vaugh, Iowa & Alden Vaughn, Iowa 5. Jessi Maples, Ala. & Rylie Maples, Ala.
Prospector II:
1. Kolten Greenhorn, Ohio & Alexa Turner, Ill. 2. Sheridan Soules, Okla. & Jade McPeak, Okla. 3. Brody Grathwohl, Kan. & Ryder Heter, Kan. 4. Joshua Blakeman, Ohio & Reagan Farrer, Ohio 5. Evelyn Hill, Ind. & Lindsey Jester, Ind.
Intermediate:
1. Emilee Munchrath, Texas & Quinn Hartley, Texas 2. Lane Jabs, Mont. & Madison Small, Mont. 3. Kimberly Holland, Okla. & Carter Kornegay, Okla. 4. Hailey Thomson, Wis. & Jenna Beisbier, Wis. 5. Gracie Giles, Tenn. & Addison Obrecht, Iowa
Senior:
1. Haylee Ferguson, Tenn. & Cameron Catrett, Ala. 2. Heath Keiser, Neb. & Anna Ready, Neb. 3. Caroline Winter, Ohio & Brandon Barr, Ohio 4. Victoria Thompson, Ala. & Jewel Thompson, Ala. 5. Kyle Vondra, Wis. & Kelsey Kuehni, Wis. =
Team Sales Winners.
Combs in hand, clipper blades sharpened and adhesive in the air. Getting an animal ready to show is a complicated task that takes time, energy, and patience to perfect. Juniors in teams of four geared up for the annual team fitting contest, where their talents to dress an animal were put to the test.
This timed contest puts together teamwork, presentation, and communication amongst team members. Judges were asked to score teams on both their fitting skills, but as well as their decision making and team skills.
The Team Fitting contest is one of the most highly anticipated contests of junior nationals. A special thanks goes to Sullivan Supply for donating the contest awards and capturing the event on The Pulse.
The results of the fitting contest are as follows:
Prospector I & II:
1. Sheridan Soules, Okla.; Addison Dick, Okla.; Jade McPeak, Okla.; Alexa Turner, Ill. 2. Brock Studer, Iowa; Kyser Will, Iowa; Reagan Fox, Iowa; Lauren Berg, Iowa 3. Kanin Cleere, Texas; Winston Dryer, Texas; Brigham Deborde, Texas; Finley Jones, Texas 4. Juliana Ritchie, Mich.; Teegan Ritchie, Mich.; Henry Allen, Pa.; Drake Penrod, Ill. 5. Piper Cates, Ind.; Jaylynn Humphreys, Ind., Sophia Humphreys, Ind.; Weston Ward, Ind.
Intermediate:
1. Houston Ferree, Ind.; Hayden Fox, Iowa; Abby Bratcher, Ind.; Kesler Collins, Ill. 2. Cooper Hetrick, Ohio; Sydnee Hawkins, Ohio; Kolten Greenhorn, Ohio; Callie Turner, Ill. 3. Gage Farrar, Ohio; Karly Goetz, Ohio; Logan Schroeder, Ohio; Gracie Giles, Ohio 4. Emilee Munchrath, Texas; Jackson Akers, Texas; Quinn Hartley, Texas; Morgan Brooks, Texas 5. Toby Behrends, Ill.; Reagan Reedy, Ill.; Isabella Forbes, Ill.; Laci Wernicke, Ill.
Senior:
1. Miller Smith, Ind.; Xavier Ferris, Ind.; Skyler Ward, Ohio; Jaxon Schrag, S.D. 2. Alyssa Carter, Ohio; Kathy Lehman, Ohio; Dalton Kennedy, Ohio; Fulton Kennedy, Ohio 3. Peyton Scott, Okla.; Hannah Blankinship, Okla.; Bailey Hooper, Okla.; Eli Mathews, Okla. 4. Clayton Poppe, Ill.; Ty Harden, Ill.; Grace Brown, Ill.; Austin Miller, Ill. 5. Carissa Dalquest, Kan.; Taylor Nulik,Kan.; Wyatt Fechter, Kan.; Abby Brown, Kan. =
Prospector I and II Team Fitting Winners.
Intermediate Team Fitting Winners.
Senior Prepared Speech Winner - Lauren Mohr
Again this year, the Champion Senior in the Prepared Speech Contest, presented their speech during the awards banquet Friday night. Below is a copy of Lauren Mohr’s winning speech.
Why God Made A Farmer
2022 A world filled with possibility and time where a dream can become a reality. 1879 the first light bulb was invented. 1927 the first TV was displayed in San Francisco. 1983 the first handheld mobile device was available.
Technology has changed the way we eat, sleep, breathe, and survive; and in the livestock industry it changed the way we function to make us more efficient. We now can ship semen across countries, freeze and flush embryos from the females that are at the top of our herds, and even create duplicates of what we deem the “ideal” animal.
However, the question still remains: When do we cross the line? I would like to discuss two major points. Number one, the concerns with cloning our animals and number two, the issues with lab grown meat.
The first successful cloning was with Dolly the sheep in 1996. An exciting time for the livestock industry, but it’s when we step back and truly evaluate it, some truths are quickly uncovered. When cloning occurs the ends of the chromosomes called telomeres shrink. Now why is this a concern? Telomeres are responsible for repetitive DNA sequences and protect the chromosome from becoming frayed or tangled. As cells continue to duplicate, the telomeres become smaller and smaller, until they disappear. This results in the cells inability to continue to multiply. Dolly the sheep lived for only 6 years when the average lifespan of a sheep is 12. Now applying this to the beef industry the average life expectancy is 15 years. Now if this was a cloned animal it could be expected to be cut in half. Now, take into account that the average heifer reaches sexual maturity around 1 year of age that would mean, statistically speaking there would only be 5 progeny off one animal. Cloning our animals could cost producers productivity. However, there are some positives to take away from this process. Cloning can save some animals from going extinct and allow people to make duplicates of National Champion cattle, but there are still many disadvantages to this practice. Animals have an increased risk of deformities to major organs including the heart, liver, kidneys and brain. It is up to us as an industry to decide what is best, but at this point in time, the disadvantages seem to outweigh the advantages.
Now obviously as an industry we have to stay open minded to continue making positive change. Take Temple Grandin for example; she was unwilling to be told no when she had new ideas to decrease the stress on animals during the harvest process. She became an icon in the livestock industry and helped improve the meat quality because of her new design for animal harvesting plants. She helped the animals be less stressed and because of this we now have a higher quality product to feed the country. We can’t be close minded and need to explore new ideas. We have to be aware of the fact that when we start to tamper with nature, we are opening the doors to far larger risks than we realize.
Now one of the more recent experiments was in 2013 with the creation of lab grown meat. It was manufactured to combat the concern for an increased population, less land for traditional farming, and potentially not having enough food. This meat is created by extracting a muscle cell from a beef cow and using technology for it to divide and produce more. To some this may seem like a good idea but this process is very expensive. It currently costs around $200-400 per 2 lbs of beef created. Whereas, beef from the grocery store can cost on a rough average 3-6 dollars per lb. Lab grown meat doesn’t seem very realistic for the common household.
However, I would also like to share a personal concern with this new product. If lab grown meat were to pick up speed and take over the industry, traditional beef production would be a dying field. Farmers would lose businesses and the general population would lose even more touch with the agriculture industry. Today one of the largest issues in the agriculture industry is the lack of education for the general public. Most people don’t know where their food comes from, and it is something we are already trying to fix. If we start limiting the amount of cattle produced and have less farms, this creates a far larger gap between farmers and the “average Joe”. Now, I am not saying we should close the doors on more research on cloning animals or lab grown meat but rather saying, we need to be cautious and take the time to evaluate results and study for years upon years to make sure that we don’t implement anything that could result in negative repercussions.
As we transition into using new technology we need to remember it is our job to protect the traditions to make sure we still have the industry we know and love. We can be open minded, but that never means we shouldn’t be cautious or ask a lot of questions. The world will continue to need new ideas, but let’s never forget why God made a =farmer.
Lauren Mohr, Senior Prepared Speech Winner, presenting her winning speech during the awards banquet.
by Sheridan Fox
The speech contest is a great way for juniors to be able to gain experience learning how to improve their public speaking and writing skills.
This year, the juniors were given topics to create a speech that answer the following questions for each age group. Prospector I “ Why are Shorthorns out of this world?”, Prospector II “ What are some technologies you use in your herd?”, Intermediate “Advantages/ Disadvantages of using technology in the cattle industry?”, Senior “How can high technology be detrimental to the industry?”. Being able to dive deep into these questions and learn more about our industry as well as the beef industry gives these juniors the chance to advance their knowledge and present it in a professional manner. The senior speech winner presented the winning speech at the annual banquet.
Prospector I:
1. Kelby Worthington, Okla. 2. Kennedy Arthur, Okla. 3. Piper Cates, Ind. 4. John Wells, Texas 5. Sawyer Hayslip, Okla.
Prospector II:
1. Jade McPeak, Okla. 2. Sheridan Soules, Okla. 3. Jenna Starman, Ill. 4. Addison Dick, Okla. 5. Kanin Cleere, Texas
Intermediate:
1. Darla Fesmire, Okla. 2. Charlotte Jordan, Ind. 3. Libby Shaver, Mo. 4. Madelyn Weaber, Kan. 5. Savannah Jackson, Ark.
Senior:
1. Lauren Mohr, Ill. 2. Carissa Dalquest, Kan. 3. Cameron Catrett, Ala. 4. Jewel Thompson, Ala. 5. Victoria Thompson, Ala. =
Speech Winners.
Sock Drive
by Regan Culp
The American Junior Shorthorn Association continued their annual sock drive this year by partnering with City Union Mission in Kansas City to donate 7,235 pairs of socks! City Union Mission has been helping men, women, and children since 1924 by providing food, clothing, beds, and safety for those in need. City Union Mission is committed to sharing the gospel and meeting the spiritual, physical, and emotional needs of poverty-stricken and homeless individuals in the Kansas City area. AJSA members from 26 states donated socks this year which were separated into individual states and then divided by the number of exhibitors from that state to determine a percentage per exhibitor.
This year Alabama was the winning state for the sock drive with 119 pairs of socks donated per exhibitor!
The state who donated the most pairs of socks overall this year is Oklahoma who donated 1,932 pairs of socks!
The AJSA extends their thanks to everyone who donated socks this year!=
City Union Mission in Kansas City picking up the donated socks.
Juniors of all ages are able to showcase their creativity in the annual Arts & Etc. division. Participants are asked to create an item that displays, and advocates for the Shorthorn breed. Judges are asked to score based on the criteria of quality of craftsmanship, originality, artistic appeal, and Shorthorn promotion.
Attendees enjoyed the displays of the projects for the week of junior nationals, and some juniors even sold their projects after the conclusion of the contest.
Prospector I:
1. Piper Cates, Ind. 2. Brody Grathwohl, Kan.
Senior:
1. Griffin Behrens, Okla. 2. McKenna Renner, Neb. 3. Brianna Wood, Okla. 4. Meredith Behrens, Okla. 5. Wyatt Fechter, Kan.
Refurbished Arts & Crafts Division:
1. Madalyn Rankin, Pa. 2. Ryli Bivens, Texas 3. Kara Baker, Okla. 4. Shyan Bennett, Ind. 5. Samantha VanVorhis, Ohio =
Arts & Crafts Winners. Refurbished Arts & Crafts Winners.
by Sheridan Fox
The Career Development contest is a contest that helps our juniors to prepare themselves for the real world. This was just the second year of this new contest and it was a hit with very large numbers! This contest helps give juniors the chance to show off their resume and take part in the interviewing process for a chance to compete with fellow candidates. Whether they finished on top or finished short, all participants had certainly done 3. MaKena Reeves, Kan. 4. Sophia Humphreys, Ind. 5. Lane McCall, Ky.
Prospector II:
1. Clay Lynn, Ala. 2. Grace Miles, Ill. 3. Francesca Bologna, Md. 4. Samuel Teeple, Tenn. 5. Reagan Ferris, Ind.
Intermediate:
1. Kenzey Cox, Texas 2. Karly Goetz, Ohio 3. Courtney Rathke, Wis. 4. Dayson Cash, Okla. 5. Kimberly Holland, Okla.
what it takes to create the best impression in the room to build their future careers. The results are as follows:
Senior:
1. Cameron Catrett, Ala. 2. Haylee Ferguson, Tenn. 3. Amanda Smee, Texas 4. Morgan Vondra, Wis. 5. Jewel Thompson, Ala. =
Promotional Poster & Graphic Design
by Miller Smith
It’s clear to see that the juniors of the Shorthorn breed don’t lack in terms of their creativity. Juniors found the best and most creative way to advertise and educate in the poster and graphic design contests. This year, the intermediate and senior divisions in the graphic design contest set out to create the best advertisement for this year’s celebration of the 150th Anniversary. While the older divisions took on this task, the younger divisions found a way to promote their farms and NJSS with a promotional poster. This year’s contest was top notch in terms of quality from all divisions! Congratulations to all the participants!
Prospector I Poster:
1. Josie Turner, Ill. 2. Juliana Ritchie, Mich. 3. Joseph Bologna, Md. 4. Brody Grathwohl, Kan. 5. Kelby Worthington, Okla.
Prospector II Poster:
1. Reagan Ferris, Ind. 2. Francesca Bologna, Md. 3. Peyton Ramsey, Okla. 4. Mallory Inskeep, Ind. 5. Sheridan Soules, Okla.
Intermediate Graphic Design:
1. Kenzey Cox, Texas 2. Aden Grathwohl, Kan. 3. Emilee Munchrath, Texas 4. Gracie Giles, Tenn. 5. Samantha VanVorhis, Ohio
Senior Graphic Design:
1. Cameron Catrett, Ala. 2. Faye Smith, Kan. 3. Carter Meyer, Texas 4. Morgan Vondra, Wis. 5. Paige Phillips, Ohio =
Promotional Poster Winners. Graphic Design Winners.
At the 2022 National Junior Shorthorn Show, juniors from twenty-six states sent in photos to compete in four different categories- Senior, Intermediate, Prospector II and Prospector I. The entries consisted of photography that encompassed agriculture, through candid shots, digitally enhanced, and scenic pasture views that included Shorthorn cattle. Entries were sent in and judged prior to Junior Nationals by a panel of judges. When Junior Nationals commenced, photos that were submitted by juniors were featured in the Arts & Crafts section on a screen that rotated through the photography.
Congratulations to these outstanding winners behind the camera:
Prospector I:
1. Alden Vaughn, Iowa 2. Jessi Maples, Ala. 3. Brody Grathwohl, Kan. 4. Boone Maples, Ala. 5. Kelby Worthington, Okla.
Prospector II:
1. Sheridan Soules, Okla. 2. Clay Lynn, Ala. 3. Preston Brown, Ill. 4. Beth Wells, Texas 5. Caytie Couch, Okla.
Intermediate:
1. Caleb Hall, Idaho 2. Toby Behrends, Ill. 3. Charlotte Jordan, Ind. 4. Cooper Hetrick, Ohio 5. Logan Schroeder, Ohio
Senior:
1. Cameron Catrett, Ala. 2. Carter Meyer, Texas 3. Reed Schumacher, Ohio 4. Catelyn Olsen, Wis. 5. Annette Braun, Md.
Intermediate Digitally Enhanced:
1. Samantha VanVorhis, Ohio 2. Riley Brown, Ill. 3. Caleb Hall, Idaho 4. Kenzey Cox, Texas 5. Kimberly Holland, Okla.
Senior Digitally Enhanced:
1. Jewel Thompson, Ala. 2. Carter Meyer, Texas 3. Faye Smith, Kan. 4. Cameron Catrett, Ala. 5. Catelyn Olsen, Wis. =
Photography Winners. Digitally Enhanced Photography Winners.
by Colton Hulsey
Beef Cook-Off Winners.
I know being from a small town there is nothing I love more than to sit down with family and friends at a good dinner and to catch up on life. Everyone is always looking for a new recipe to cook beef and this year’s juniors gave us just that; a lot of new recipes to try.
This year we had 16 teams from multiple states. Each team of competitors had to prepare a cut, from the beef short loin, and present it to judges, with a copy of the recipe, as well as a short skit. Even though the skit is not worth a lot of points, you can always find each of the teams going above and beyond to make it a fun and engaging atmosphere. The various recipes and presentations were extremely creative. The judges and I had the opportunity to enjoy everything from shish-kabobs on a beach setting, to a steak in a downtown Kansas City restaurant. If you were wondering, they also got to finish it off with a little something sweet.
I always enjoy being part of this event. The amount of hard work and dedication the competitors put into it is so rewarding and not to mention the food is always a bonus.
Champion Recipe Division:
Indiana 1
Champion Showmanship Division:
Ohio 1
Overall Finalists:
1. Ohio 1: Sydnee Hawkins, Alyssa Betts, Landry Hayslip, Sawyer Hayslip 2. Indiana 1: Piper Cates, Miller Smith, Houston Ferree, John Humphreys 3. Kansas 1: Taylor Nulik, Braylee Kraisinger, Josie Heter, Ryder Heter 4. Oklahoma 1: Carter Kornegay, Dayson Cash, Kase Glazier, Peyton Ramsey 5. Wisconsin 1: Kyle Vondra, Morgan Vondra, Kylee Stelzer, Tyler Vondra =
Beef Cook-Off Recipe Winner
Champion Recipe Meat: 2 - 8 ounce Filet Mignon Condiments: 1 Tbsp of Dijon Mustard Baking and Spices: Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Pepper Oils & Vinegars: 1 Tbsp of Olive Oil Sauce: 1/2 cup heavy cream 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese salt & pepper to taste 1. Preheat oven to 450 degress. 2. Heating a large skillet, add 1 Tbsp olive oil, when oil is hot, sear the steak for three minutes on each side. Season steak generously with salt and pepper for a nice crust. 3. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and roast for about 6 to 9 minutes until steaks are done to your liking, let the steak rest. 4. Starting the sauce, take the cream and combine it with Parmesan, mustard, salt & pepper in a small saucepan. Use medium heat and frequently whisk for five minutes or until thickened. 5. Combine sauce & steak and serve!
by Xavier Ferris
As the buzzer sounded our great contestants squared off to test their knowledge of not only the shorthorn breed but the beef industry itself. In this contest two teams were composed of four individuals. Each team was required to have two prospectors, an intermediate, and a senior. This contest wasn’t just about who was fastest to smack the buzzer, but who could also answer the question correctly!
Juniors receiving top honors in the Herdsman Quiz Bowl Contest were:
1. Alabama Red: Cameron Catrett, Emma Wiggins, Clay Lynn, Kate Wiggins 2. Texas 1: Tori Copeland, Emilee Munchrath, Beth Wells, Kanin Cleere 3. Iowa 1: Rylee Obrecht, Delanie Erwin, Coy Obtrecht, Gus Erwin 4. Tennessee 2: Haylee Ferguson, Gracie Giles, Sam Teeple, Ethan Giles 5. Space Rangers 7: Reagan Fox, Caytie Couch, John Allen, Taylor Nulik =
Quiz Bowl Winners.
by Ryan Lane
Livestock Judging Winners.
4 classes, 20 questions, and 16 head of cattle made up this years judging contest, officiated by Taylor Grahm. Juniors placed a class of ShorthornPlus Heifers, Shorthorn Heifers, Shorthorn Bulls, and Steers. The contest determined who may be the future of the judging industry and there are the names you’ll have to look out for in the future. The results are as follows:
Prospector I:
1. Alden Vaughn, Iowa 2. Grace Meier, Kan. 3. Kelby Worthington, Okla. 4. Josie Turner, Ill. 5. Jaylynn Humphreys, Ind.
by Miller Smith
Cattleman’s Written Test Winners.
Juniors took their knowledge to the paper with this year’s Cattleman’s Written test! Being the first contest of the week, there was no shortage of juniors eager to participate, and they finished with some very impressive scores! The cattleman’s written test has questions ranging from industry topics all the way to AJSA board members. Juniors were given just 60 minutes to answer these questions with tests varying depending on age division. After helping grade these tests, there is
Prospector II:
1. Nora Kate McGaugh, Mo. 2. Allie Ostermeyer, Mo. 3. Tyler Vondra, Wis. 4. Brock Studer, Iowa 5. Caytie Couch, Okla.
Intermediate:
1. Karlie Kennedy, Ohio 2. Samantha VanVorhis, Ohio 3. Gage Farrar, Ohio 4. Logan Schroeder, Ohio 5. Gracie Giles, Tenn.
Senior:
1. James Cleere, Texas 2. Skyler Ward, Ohio 3. Fulton Kennedy, Ohio 4. Luke Schroeder, Ohio 5. Tori Copeland, Texas =
no doubt our breed is headed in the right direction based on the knowledge our juniors have. Congratulations to all the participants!
Prospector I:
1. Sawyer Hayslip, Ohio 2. Maddox Reedy, Ill. 3. Jalen Starman, Ill. 4. Adalynn Vaughn, Iowa 5. Kelby Worthington, Okla.
Prospector II:
1. Jade McPeak, Okla. 2. Jenna Starman, Ill. 3. Josie Heter, Kan. 4. Addison Dick, Okla. 5. Alexa Turner, Ill.
Intermediate:
1. Emilee Munchrath, Texas 2. Delanie Erwin, Iowa 3. Gracie Giles, Tenn. 4. Jack Jordan, Ind. 5. John Allen, Pa.
Senior:
1. Cameron Catrett, Ala. 2. Cameron Frantz, Colo. 3. Emma Arnett, Ohio 4. Kimberly Boyer, Okla. 5. Tori Copeland, Texas =
Lassie Tea Participants.
Shorthorn Lassie enthusiasts came together in Kansas City, Missouri, where we gathered for the annual Lassie 101 and Lassie Princess Hour on the morning of June 23.
We started the morning with the Lassie 101. This event allows State Queens and Princesses to interact with members of the National Shorthorn Lassie Association. Discussion took place about the responsibilities of a Lassie Queen. We also talked about the proper way to lead in classes, handing out awards, and gave tips on make-up and hair, along with other advice on being a Lassie.
Lassie 101 also helps build the relationships among the Queens and the Princess before the shows in the days following. It is a great honor to serve as the National Shorthorn Lassie Queen and Alternate Queen and highly suggest that any and all State Queens run to be a National Shorthorn Lassie, it is an experience that you will never regret!
After the Lassie 101, we changed gears and held the Lassie Princess Hour (Lassie Tea). Around 40 young girls and state queens representing several states were in attendance. Each girl that attended received a sash to decorate, a tiara, a cookie, along with an ear tag to decorate as well. All the State Queens and Princess got a goodie bag that had a travel size hair spray, teasing comb, and chapstick to take with them as they are some the essentials of being a Lassie Queen. After, the girls got to partake in some fun activities! These included coloring pages, puzzles, games and crafts.
During this fun filled hour, the room was definitely filled full of laughter! We are so grateful for the Queens and Princess that attended and helped with all the games, crafts, and puzzles. It always great to see so many young girls, parents, and supporters make the Lassie Tea a success this year.
Thanks to those who helped sponsor the Lassie Tea and Lassie 101. In addition, thanks to all the individuals that helped set up, clean up, and everyone that made this =a great experience for these young ladies.
By showcasing their talents and being actively involved in numerous events throughout the week of the National Junior Shorthorn Show. These individuals rose to the top of their division to claim the title of High Point Individual. As the Youth Activities Intern, I had the privilege of meeting many of these individuals and hearing about their passion for the Shorthorn breed and their involvement within it.
Exhibitors can pursue this honor by participating in contests to gain points towards the High Point Individual Award which is based on the number of contests a Jr. member participates in along with how they placed in those contests. Points are then totaled at the conclusion of the contests and the top five individuals for each age division are named. The list of these individuals is as follows:
Prospector I:
1. Kelby Worthington, Okla. 2. Brody Grathwohl, Kan. 3. Piper Cates, Ind. 4. Alden Vaughn, Iowa 5. Kennedy Arthur, Okla.
Prospector II:
1. Sheridan Soules, Okla. 2. Kolten Greenhorn, Ohio 3. Jade McPeak, Okla. 4. Alexa Turner, Ohio 5. Clay Lynn, Ala.
Intermediate:
1. Emilee Munchrath, Texas 2. Karly Goetz, Ohio 3. Gracie Giles, Tenn. 4. Kenzey Cox, Texas 5. Samantha VanVorhis, Ohio
Senior:
1. Cameron Catrett, Ala. 2. Jewel Thompson, Ala. 3. Haylee Ferguson, Tenn. 4. Carter Meyer, Texas 5. Morgan Vondra, Wis. =
High Point Winners.
Shorthorn Sidekicks
by Lily Gisclair
Shorthorn Sidekicks is a program that takes place at Junior Nationals for children who are not yet old enough (ages four and under) to compete in contests of the show.
This year, Shorthorn Sidekicks was hosted on two separate days. Day one consisted of decorating cookies. Sidekicks day two consisted of learning about feed rations. They learned all about the importance of feed rations and even made their own consisting of trail mix. The purpose of this program is to help the sidekicks get excited about coming to junior nationals each year, especially when they are old enough to compete in the show and contests.
We hope everyone enjoyed the 2022 Shorthorn Sidekicks program and we can’t wait to see you next year!
We would like to give a special thank you to Judy Alden for her help in coordination Sidekicks this year. We couldn’t have done it without you!=
Red Coat Award
by Lily Gisclair
One of the most coveted awards for Prospector exhibitors to receive at the National Junior Shorthorn Show and Youth Conference is the Red Coat Award.
This award is given to a junior member of prospector age who goes above and beyond the expectations by participating in contests and being actively involved all week. The junior board interacts with the exhibitors throughout the week, and they select a recipient of their choice to be honored at the awards ceremony.
The 2022 recipient of the Red Coat Award is Alayna Caulfield of Bradley, S.D. Alayna was selected as the Grand Champion Prospector I Showman. Congratulations Alayna and keep up the good work! =
Shorthorn Sidekick Participants.
by Ryan Lane
The state herdsman contest is to see just which state in the barn has the cleanest, neatest, and most organized stalls throughout the week of Junior Nationals. States are split into two categories - 20 head & under and 21 head & up. Each state and their juniors worked hard and kept a strong reputation for the Shorthorn Junior Nationals. The results are as follows:
States with 20 head and under:
1. Virginia 2. Maryland 3. Pennsylvania 4. Alabama 5. Michigan
States with 21 head and up:
1. Ohio 2. Illinois 3. Indiana 4. Texas 5. Iowa =
20 head and under Herdsmanship Winner. 21 head and up Herdsmanship Winner.
State Basket
by Korbin Collins
State Basket Winners.
Like the past few years, we had an excellent turnout for state baskets. This is an excellent opportunity for states to compete against each other, show off their creativity, and raise some money for the coming year. Each state was encouraged to base their baskets on them for their year, which was “Out of this World,” and they did not disappoint. All the state baskets were fantastic, and it was hard to pick a winner, but a state had to win at the end of the day. The results go as follows:
State Basket Placings:
1. Illinois 2. Texas 3. Wisconsin 4. Kansas 5. Oklahoma =
Regan
My experience at Shorthorn Junior Nationals was truly “Out of This World”! Having never attended a Junior Nationals before I was nervous about meeting the expectations set for organizing contests, preparing scripts, taking results, and actively engaging with every junior member I met. However, after six days of new experiences, I was blown away by the amount of genuine excitement and acceptance I felt from everyone I encountered! My favorite part of serving as the Youth Activities Intern was being able to work with the Jr. Board and see events that we have been working towards for weeks come together. It was awesome to be a part of such a closeknit community that the Shorthorn Breed is and see the support everyone shares for one another regardless of the competition they’re competing in. I’d also like to give a shout-out to the Jr. Board Candidates and all the free food they provided us interns during the week! Thank you to everyone who made my first Junior Nationals an intergalactic adventure and for allowing me to be a part of such an amazing association!
Lily
Growing up, I have attended many Junior Nationals but never really understood what it took to make the show happen. The 2022 National Junior Shorthorn Show and Youth Conference is an experience I will never forget. I had the pleasure of serving as the Registrations Intern and loved being able to work with not only the exhibitors but the amazing ASA staff. It was such a fulfilling experience to finally be able to put names to faces after going through and organizing all the entries for the show. The Shorthorn Breed is a breed that supports one another and welcomes each other with open arms. I am truly blessed and honored to have been able to work with such great people and meet so many new faces that made a lasting impact. I have to say I think this was one of my favorite Junior Nationals and I am so grateful to have had this amazing experience. I want to say a big thank you to everyone who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this show a huge success. I know I had an “Out of this World” time and I hope everyone else did too! Congratulations to all exhibitors and I hope everyone had a successful week!
Sara
The 2022 Junior Nationals is something I will never forget. I did not know what to expect and was not disappointed one bit. It was exciting to prepare for Junior Nationals, learn new things and grow along the way. It was an honor to be selected as the 2022 Communications Intern, being able to work with my two great fellow interns, the ASA staff, the Juniors, and
Pictured L-R: Lily, Shelby, Sara, Regan.
their families. Seeing all the hard work that goes into preparing and creating this show was amazing and I believe that I will take a great deal with me when I return to school. Although there were stressful moments, getting to walk around, capture memories and moments in the showring and outside of the ring. One of the greatest parts was being included in the Shorthorn Family, being able to meet juniors and their families, seeing the support everyone has for one another and always being there. It was truly amazing to be part of and I will never forget my time with the American Shorthorn Association. =
Moon Toss
by Lily Gisclair One of the many highlights of the week is the pairing of Junior Mentors and Apprentices. At the beginning of the week, they are to complete a list of tasks given to them. One of those tasks includes selling a specific item to raise money for the next year’s National Junior Shorthorn Show and Youth Conference. Sullivan Supply and the American Junior Shorthorn Association (AJSA) pair up to donate a chute for the winner of the toss.
Going with the Out of this World theme, they were asked to sell stress moon balls. Before the Awards Ceremony, those who purchased a stress moon were asked to line up in Hale Arena for a chance to win a chute worth over $800. These small moon balls were thrown into a water bucket; the winners from each round continued to toss them in until there was a definite winner.
Congratulations to Sam and Jace Parker of Oklahoma, the winners of this year’s toss. Thank you to all who contributed and we hope you enjoy your new chute! =
New Junior Board of Directors Elected
by Regan Culp
Pictured L-R: Brayden DeBorde; Colton Hulsey; Ryan Lane; Xavier Ferris; Miller Smith; Faye Smith; Amanda Smee; Merideth Behrens and Haylee Ferguson.
Three new delegates were over the moon to find out they were selected to serve on the American Junior Shorthorn Association Board of Directors for 20222023. After campaigning throughout the week in Kansas City, Haylee Ferguson, Amanda Smee, and Brayden DeBorde were voted as your new board directors. The updated elected board and officers are as follows:
President: Faye Smith is the daughter of Troy and Sommer Smith of Walton, Kansas. Faye is a student at Kansas State University pursuing a degree in Agricultural Communications.
Vice President: Miller Smith is a student at Purdue University where he is majoring in Animal Science. Miller is the son of Neal and Jennifer Smith of Pendleton, Indiana.
Secretary: Colton Hulsey hales from Red Oak, Oklahoma and is the son of Brian and Arla Hulsey. Colton attends Eastern Oklahoma State College where he is pursuing an associate degree in Animal Science and plans to attend Oklahoma State University to pursue a degree in Agribusiness.
Public Relations: Merideth Behrens is the daughter of Justin and Stephanie Behrens of Calera, Oklahoma. She is currently attending Redland Community College majoring in Animal Science with a minor in Agricultural Education.
Fundraising: Xaiver Ferris is a student at Oklahoma State University majoring in Agricultural Business. Xavier is the son of Brian and Andrea Ferris of Whiteland, Indiana.
Director: Ryan Lane is the son of William Lane of Jay, Oklahoma. Ryan is studying Agricultural Business at Northeastern Oklahoma State College and will be attending Oklahoma State University this coming fall to obtain a degree in Agricultural Business.
Director: Haylee Ferguson hales from Rockvale, Tennessee and she is the daughter of Kevin and Phyllis Ferguson. Haylee currently attends University of Tennessee, Knoxville where she is working toward a Food and Agricultural Business major.
Director: Amanda Smee is a student at Tarleton State University where she is studying to receive a double major in agricultural service and development as well as accounting. Amanda is from Conroe, Texas and is the daughter of Jacob and Dala Smee.
Director: Brayden DeBorde is the son of Eric and Meredith DeBorde of Bardwell, Texas. Brayden is currently attending Texas Tech University where he is a double major in agriculture and applied economics as well as business administration.
While our retiring board directors leave behind an intergalactic impact, we know our new newly elected board members will do great things! Thank you, Korbin Collins and Sheridan Fox for your dedication to the Shorthorn breed and hard work during your time on the board. Your passion for representing the Shorthorn Association and engaging with junior members across the country has been outstanding and we wish you the best of luck with your future endeavors! =
Old-Timers Showmanship
The junior herdsman award is presented at the National Junior Shorthorn Show with the purpose of recognizing an outstanding AJSA member who exhibits a strong work ethic, dedication to the breed, and an ability to present their animals. Any senior member (ages 17-21) exhibiting cattle at the NJSS was eligible to receive this award. A nomination committee that was selected by ASA staff to evaluate the senior exhibitors MondayWednesday to be voted on by NJSS exhibitors. The nomination committee evaluated the senior exhibitors on the following traits: hardworking, general involvement, role model, interaction with breeders/juniors, represents/ advocated for Shorthorn breed. After the nominees were announced on Facebook, their fellow junior exhibitors voted to select the winner.
This year our winner was very deserving of this honor as shown by the characteristics demonstrated throughout the week. Miller is the son of Neal and Jennifer Smith from Pendleton, Indiana. He currently attends Purdue University where he is studying Animal Science Agribusiness. He is very passionate about
This year was the first ever old-timers’ showmanship put together by the junior board of directors and it was beyond that of a success. A total of $1,300 was raised!
During the old-timers’ showmanship the ring was full of comical outfits and laughs as everyone waited to see who got the golden walking cane trophy. We are so thankful for the individuals who came out to participate. It was great to see all the parents, who always preach wisdom and techniques to their own children, come out and set an example for the younger generations. I think it’s safe to say some were a little rusty, maybe more than they wanted to admit.
Let me take a minute to recognize the Shorthorn breed and the people in it! He was elected to the AJSA board of directors in 2020 and currently serves as vice-president. Miller has been to every National Junior Shorthorn Show since he was just one year old. He loves participating in contests especially beef cook-off and team fitting. The Smith family raises Shorthorn cattle for show as well as for their feedlot to supply their local meat market with Shorthorn beef. Miller enjoys working alongside his dad and brother with cow work and in the show barn every chance he gets. He plans to return to the family farm after graduation to help with growing row crops and the cattle business as well as pursue a career in ruminant nutrition.
“I feel honored to have received this junior herdsman award. I was fortunate enough to be nominated with two other amazing and deserving candidates. This award means so much to me as a young person trying to build our family’s brand and place in the show cattle industry. I want to thank everyone who voted for me this year,” Smith said.
Congratulations to Miller Smith on be being selected as the 2022 Junior =Herdsman of the Year.
those who received showmanship honors. Mrs. Cindy, no one deserved the golden cane trophy more than her. She has probably mastered the showmanship skills and techniques through her camera lenses. We appreciate all she does for the AJSA family. Mr. Kane Aegerter, received the ‘Most Improved Showman’ Award. He is still a young lad and not as seasoned, apparently, as Mrs. Cindy.
Next year, in Des Moines, we expect to see even more participation in this new competition. I wish the best of luck to all the parents out there that plan to polish up on their showmanship skills =for next year.
Miller Smith Receiving Award.
by Colton Hulsey
News & Notes
Texas Shorthorn Association 2022 Pioneer Breeder - Dr. Blair MacBeath
The Texas Shorthorn Association honored Dr. Blair MacBeath, Pittsburg, with their 2022 Pioneer Breeder Award. MacBeath was born in Canada and raised and showed Shorthorn cattle as a youth. He moved to Texas in 1980 as a medical doctor and started his own herd called Lushacres Shorthorns. He has been a member of the Texas Shorthorn Association since 1988. He was elected a director in 1990 and served 2 terms on the board. He has been a consistent advertiser in the membership directory, some years sharing a page with BJM Farms, also at Pittsburg. He has always advertised cows – Lushacres Robin, Lushacres Aspen, Lushacres Luxury – pictured on lush grass.
MacBeath purchased foundation females from Alden Farms in Missouri; Don and Pat Stout in Oklahoma; Cates Farm in Indiana and Bill Rasor in Texas. By 2000 his herd numbered over 60 top producing cows. Herd sires over the years included Granada Landmark 6268 ET; GR Bambino; JY Motor Boat x; Stonelea Wanted; AF Warrior 195 x; SS Irish Sun 45087 and GCF Robin’s Improver. A.I. sires have included Kilkeely Duke, Mombi Powerplay and Rockdale Powerdream.
Dr. MacBeath is associated with UT Health at Pittsburg. He is medical director at CC Ambulance and Copress Basin Hospice. He serves on the board of directors at Pilgrim Bank and is an elder in the Presbyterian Church. His wife, Janet, is a retired college professor. They have 2 sons – Mark is a sales coordinator for Perke-Elmer and lives in Austin. Luke is the associate principal at Pine Tree ISD and has 2 children. =
