Red Take Over

by Gabbi Walters, NAJRAE communications director

They say everything is ‘OK’ in Oklahoma, but get ready for the red dust to stir when the red cattle arrive for a western showdown. The North American Junior Red Angus Event is thrilled to announce the addition of new and improved contests, divisions and the PeeWee Jungle.

How often have you heard, “take a chance, step out of your comfort zone or push yourself to the limit?” At this year’s North American Junior Red Angus Event, members can do just that by developing and improving their skills, talents and competing in an abundance of competitions. We encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, try something new, challenge yourself and take a chance. Change in your life comes when you get out of your comfort zone, and the only way to grow is through change. Take that chance and try something new during our week-long event, and don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

Creativity? We’ve got a place for you. Showcase your creativity through arts/crafts and photography contests. Build your interview skills by having a short interview with the judges to receive points. Build life skills by challenging yourself to write and present a speech. Convey your thoughts and have some fun with this year’s topic for the intermediate and senior divisions: “What problems is the beef industry facing and how could Red Angus help to solve these issues?”

Individual contests allow you

to showcase your knowledge. The Herdsman Quiz and Skill-A-Thon exhibits the member’s knowledge on feedstuffs, livestock equipment identification, breed identification, association, carcass grading system, supplement identification and industry questions. Scores are added up and prizes are awarded at the annual banquet for all events. Individual events are then tallied together, and the highly coveted overall Sweepstakes winner receives a beautifully handcrafted leather director’s chair.

The PeeWee Jungle will be full of fun and educational events for our PeeWees. From coloring, to crafts, to waterslides and the herdsman quiz, an all-inclusive experience has been made for the youngest members. We strive to mold and enhance the future of the agriculture industry by educating youth at the earliest age. PeeWee versions of some satellite events will be available to give members a glimpse at what contests their older siblings are competing in.

Not only do we educate the youngest generation, but we set up our graduating members for success with the scholarship support. Thousands of dollars have been awarded to graduating high school seniors continuing their education in apprenticeship programs,

trade schools, junior colleges or a university.

The week of the North American Junior Red Angus Event and the years behind it go by quickly, but never cease the opportunity to take a chance, make a change and grow by trying something new.

You can find more contests, rules and schedule at www.najrae.com or on our Facebook page.