10 STOCK SHOW AWARDS TEXAS FFA SCHOLARSHIPS Approximately 15,000 FFA members from across Texas met in Fort Worth, July 11 through 15 for their 94th annual state convention. The youth came to compete in contests (Ag Quiz Bowl, Public Speaking, Soil and Water Stewardship and Extemporaneous Speaking were just few), participate in leadership workshops and attend general sessions where attendees conducted business and celebrated their accomplishments and achievements as an organization and as individuals. Scholarship awards have long been a key feature at the Texas FFA convention and the Stock Show maintains a strong presence awarding $96,000 to members of both the Texas FFA and Texas 4-H organizations. This year, the following 12 FFA members received an $8,000 scholarship funded by the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. RECIPIENT CHAPTER Avery Brooks Union Grove FFA Cody Ellison Winnsboro FFA Jessica Francis Prairiland FFA Nicole Greer Grapevine FFA Tobi Jackson Grandview FFA Jaraden Kearby Wall FFA Jaycee Obermier Bellevue FFA Ally Robinson Fairfield FFA Emily Spiess Bellville FFA Reed Terrell Levelland FFA Makenzie Thames Columbus FFA Pake Williams Dawson FFA NATIONAL FARM LIFE INSURANCE MAKES STRONG COMMITMENT TO RABBIT SHOW EXHIBITORS With all the buzz surrounding youth exhibitors and their steers, barrows, lambs and goats, it’s easy for smaller competitions like the rabbit show to get lost in all the excitement. But just because they’re smaller (no pun intended) doesn’t mean they’re not an important contributor to the Stock Show’s mission. Youth rabbit exhibitors learn practically every aspect of animal production that a youth who cares for a steer, heifer or lamb learns – in some respects more. As a parent of kids who raise and show rabbits, Kyle McGregor, president of National Farm Life Insurance, appreciates this fact as much as anyone. Thus when McGregor approached Stock Show management about discussing ways to enhance the Youth and Open Rabbit Shows, a dynamic relationship was formed that will draw new attention and excitement to an exhibition with a long FWSSR history. “As an FFA member I exhibited steers, heifers and market swine, but never rabbits. Our daughters chose rabbits because we live in town and our chapter does not have a formal feeding facility. I continue to be surprised and impressed with how much they know and have learned due to the fact they are involved in each step of selection, care, nutrition, breeding, showing and marketing, etc.” National Farm Life Insurance stepped up with funding to make several enhancements for exhibitors and show officials for the 2023 Show. Exhibitors winning Best in Show, First Runner Up and Second Runner Up in both the Youth and Open will receive FWSSR belt buckles and trophies courtesy of the Texas-only company that has provided security to families for more than 75 years. “Like the Stock Show, our roots in the agricultural industry run deep,” added McGregor. “We’re excited to support exhibitors who are a part of this rich Fort Worth tradition.” Brad Barnes (far left) and Stefan Marchman (far right) and 2022 FWSSR Scholarship Winners at Texas FFA Convention.
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