1515 STEPPING UP TO VOLUNTEER Being born and raised in Fort Worth, Micallef grew up attending the Stock Show like thousands of other loyal supporters. It was natural for him to step up and take on additional roles beyond his Reata responsibilities that tapped into his personal passions and devotion to the city he calls home. Specifically, he’s most committed to supporting youth participation. Not long after Reata’s FWSSR partnership began, Micallef joined the Stock Show’s Ag Development Fund committee which raises funds to support junior livestock exhibitors with cash premium awards and floor price support for junior livestock show market animals (steers, lambs, goats and barrows). He was quick to take on additional responsibilities. “Shooting sports is a personal passion for me and I’ve been on that committee for the last three years,” he said. “I’ve also been a judge for showmanship for the Jr. Ag Mechanics competition which is a lot of fun. Being a garage welder it’s great to see all the projects and I’m always impressed on how well these kids present their projects.” One Jr. Ag Mechanics exhibitor’s creativity sticks out in Micallef’s mind and underscores how Stock Show youth can rise to any occasion. “I have many great memories,” Micallef said. “One of the favorites is from the ag mechanics show. A young man had built a wind generator from parts that he totally found in the junkyard. I was incredibly impressed that he figured out how to make a wind generator from scrap parts. I believe he even figured out how to use a discarded washing machine motor in the design and construction of the project.” But his service on the Justin Mutton Bustin’ committee may serve as a precursor for the most enriching Stock Show memories to come for Micallef. He’s quick to note the enjoyment he gets from being down on the arena floor for the popular rodeo feature. “I probably know half the parents with kids who are in mutton bustin’ so it’s just a great way to spend the end of the night watching cute little cowboys and cowgirls ride a sheep and try to win a big trophy,” said Micallef who will soon become a parent himself. The longtime bachelor married Kendall Shirey last year and the couple are expecting their first child – a girl – later this month. Hopefully the Micallef family’s Stock Show legacy will be picked up by the next generation when an eager little girl eases down on a sheep to ride for a big trophy in front of excited parents on the Dickies Arena dirt during the 2030 Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. Micallef and his wife, Kendall Shirey, will welcome a baby girl later this month. Photo courtesy Mike Micallef. “I created a contest where people guess how many steps I take. Whoever is the closest chooses a charity and I donate $200. Last year the donation went to the Texas German Shorthair Rescue.” - Mike Micallef
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