By Julie Tomascik
Editor
Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo and the State Fair of Texas hosted The United Livestock Show in October 2020.
Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) sponsored the unique, one-time show by redirecting the funds typically used for the Doorways to Agriculture exhibit at both state shows. TFB’s redirected funds were the prize money for The United, and 15 exhibitors each took home part of the $22,500.
For each division—heifers, steers and gilts, the grand champion received $2,500. The reserve champion received $2,000, third overall $1,500, fourth overall $1,000 and fifth overall $500.
“The United was a fantastic event,” Whit Weems, TFB director of Organization, said. “Two youth livestock shows worked together to provide an opportunity for Texas 4-H and FFA members. We’re proud we were able to play a role in this event.”
At the December TFB state board of directors meeting, Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo’s President/CEO Wes Allison and Vice President of the Fair Division Dustin Coufal presented a framed poster signed by the winners. Each winner also wrote thank you notes expressing their appreciation for Farm Bureau’s support.
“The thank you notes from the youth exhibitors showed just how appreciative they were to receive the prize, but even more how truly grateful they were for Farm Bureau’s support of the stock show,” Weems said.
It was historic, unprecedented and inspiring. Volunteers and stock show staff worked tirelessly to pull together a stock show that will be remembered for many years.
Youth exhibitors showed up in large numbers. Nearly 1,200 heifers and more than 530 steers and 225 breeding gilts were exhibited in Waco.
But The United was more than a livestock show. It was an event that brought hope, a sense of normalcy and allowed seniors to compete once again.