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I was honored to be invited to the Simpson County Junior Livestock Banquet Monday night, January 21, 2019. Really, I had no idea what I was getting into! So many friends and great people were on hand plus at least 67 young people helping! The meal was delicious and served by the senior members of the association and others.
Seniors are: Ryan Welch, Alexis Sullivan, and Britton Holland.
The SC Junior Livestock Association is all about the youth of Simpson County. These young people are learning more than how to “show” an animal. Life’s lessons are apart of the training.
Following the banquet, Paul Mullins was awarded the 2019 To the Youth of Simpson County Show Dedication Award. Paul was visibly moved by the honor. Paul was recognized for his dedication to the 4H program and all youth in the county program.
I am pitiful…I can’t remember all the awards…but there was some bragging going on about adults who are involved with the program.
Donny Welch, President, did a great job keeping the night rolling.
Next up was the Scholarship auction! Talking about fun!!! I had no idea Andy Berry could get so wild at an auction. Now, I’ve known Andy along time, but when he started that hollering …I almost fell out of my chair! Between he and Paul Mullins, they kept the audience entertained. Just one example of the money raised for the scholarship fund through the auction was a German Chocolate cake Frances Welch made. The cake sold for $275.00!!! The audience reached deep in their pockets to support the scholarship fund. Each bid item brought in the dough!!! 
According to Donny Welch, each senior receives a $1,000 scholarship for full participation in the program. The committee has increased the scholarship several times due to the participation of loyal friends and family.
The highlight of the night was the Educators Celebrity Pig Show-Down! Featured participants were Billy Wayne Hankins, Greg Pace, Joe Hannah, and Bo Huffman. Commissioner of Agriculture Andy Gipson, Amanda Blakney and Patti Braddock of the 4 H program rounded out the “teams!” I don’t think Billy Wayne has ever tried to “drive” a pig for showing. In all honesty, they all did good. Fun Fun Fun!!!
Congratulations on a very successful year and thank you so much for inviting MageeNews.com to be apart of your night!
Check out the videos on Zach’s article (click here)
