Junior Corner

Haylee Ferguson

ajsa director

A Time to be Thankful... 365 Days a Year

As I write my first article as an AJSA board member, I want to begin by thanking everyone who put their trust in me to fill this role. Blessed, speechless, and amazed are just a few of the words that come to mind when I think about the opportunity to serve the Shorthorn breed and represent AJSA members.

During the current holiday season, many of us are visiting family and celebrating the joy this time of year brings. As a college student, I look forward to winter break, always. At first, I thought this was simply because of no class and home-cooked meals! While this is positive, I realize how much I appreciate moments spent with my parents on the farm. Growing up, working at the barn meant time for my family to discuss daily events that had occurred and truly enjoy being in each other’s company.

My fondest memories are without a doubt the weeks my parents and I have spent at cattle shows together. In the Shorthorn industry, we, as members, are fortunate to count on and spend time with our “family” year-round. The AJSA has created a sense of camaraderie that has allowed members to create lifelong friendships. This breed separates itself apart from the rest as I often see juniors congratulating each other outside of the ring, pushing competition to be the best version of themselves, and leaning on one another during adversity.

With the enjoyment of good food, gifts, and days spent with loved ones, the holiday season can be hectic as well. Sometimes, people in the livestock industry dread these busy days. Patience is a word we should all keep in mind when everything seems to be going awry. James 5:7-8 reads, “See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm”. It takes time to build a herd, daily chores can be dreadful during cold weather, and improving your operation can be a lengthy process. But we must be patient, consider the outcome, and remember our “why”.

I encourage each of you to check on members of your “Shorthorn family” during this holiday season! Remember to be thankful for the opportunities you are given and the accomplishments you have made! =

thank you Thank you to all the donors, buyers, bidders, supporters and contributors of the Deck the Stalls Extravaganza in Louisville. Your support ensures the future of the junior program and makes junior national possible!

juniorshorthorn.com

Junior Board

President :: Faye Smith Vice President :: Miller Smith Secretary :: Colton Hulsey Public Relations :: Merideth Behrens Fundraising :: Xavier Ferris Director :: Ryan Lane Director :: Amanda Smee Director :: Brayden DeBorde Director :: Haylee Ferguson

Upcoming Junior Nationals

2023 • Des Moines, IA 2024 • TBA 2025 • Grand Island, NE 2026 • Abilene, TX 2027 • TBA

* Tentative Locations. Subject to Change *

Words of Advice

“It’s the little details that are vital. Little things make big things happen.” ~John Wooden