Events set for 4-H, FFA members
By Sandy Morris
Local FFA and 4-H youth are kicking off various spring activities and competitions, as well as continuing to compete in livestock shows around the state.
4-H News
Shackelford County Extension Agent and 4-H sponsor Kloey Painter said 4-H members have several opportunities to participate in upcoming practices and clinics.
Archery Practice
The club has started archery practice every Tuesday at 5:00 p.m. at the Shackelford County Show Barn.
Members are preparing for the state archery competition in Graham on Friday, April 2.
Team members include Johnnie Hise, Ellis Hise, James Hise, Emmie Hise, and Carly Kreitler.
Rifle Practice
Rifle practice for 4-Hers is held every Sunday at 2:00 p.m.
Jace Holmes and Landon Herrell are planning to compete in Brady on Saturday, April 24.
Horseback Riding
A horseback riding clinic is scheduled at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 27 at the Lazy 3 Ranch.
Members will be riding horses and learning the basics during the clinic, led by Painter, Kelsey Bell, and Louisa Fikes.
Four “kid-friendly” horses will be available for the clinic, and all children must have a parent present during the clinic.
For more information on any upcoming events, contact Painter at 325-762-2232.
FFA Reminders
Albany High School ag teacher and FFA sponsor Chris Beard said the deadline for writing thank you notes to buyers from the county stock show is Friday, March 26.
Junior high and high school students were able to pick up their bidders list on Friday, and the remaining lists were sent home with Nancy Smith Elementary School students before they dismissed for Spring Break.
Students who did not pick up or receive their lists may contact Beard.
Show participants will need to write their notes and place them in stamped, addressed envelopes so they are ready to mail.
Notes will need to be verified by bringing them to Beard who will then mail them.
Stock show participants are reminded that they must send a thank you note before they will receive their checks.
Beard also said that all outstanding balances due to the stock show, 4-H, or FFA must be paid by Friday, April 2 or exhibitors will not receive their checks.
The pen clean -up at the FFA barn also is scheduled for Friday, April 2, and any student who fed animals at the FFA barn this year will need to clean their pens by the deadline or their exhibitor checks will be held.
Any student who owes money to the FFA Scholarship fund will need to have that amount paid by Friday, April 9.
Memorial Scholarship Applications
Memorial Scholarship applications are now available and are due on Friday, April 2.
“Seniors can pick up and return their paperwork to me,” said Beard. “We will not accept any late applications.”
Buyer-Seller Event
The annual Buyer-Seller Reception will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 10 at The Feed Store.
There will be no meal at the gathering this year but light refreshments will be available.
The purpose of the event is to present premium checks and first place plaques, as well as recognize stock show supporters, buyers, and bidders.
Stock Show Meeting
The Shackelford County Youth and Livestock Association annual meeting is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 13 at the ag building.
