Will B.

One of my favorite events of the year is the Young County Junior Livestock Show [YCJLS]. I enjoy many things about this event and what it represents, for one it restores my faith in the youth of this country. The mainstream media has become a madhouse the past 10 years or so and they seem to relish showing only the negatives of this country’s youth.

Anyone who knows anything about livestock knows just how much time and dedication it takes to raise livestock, even just one or two animals. I know what it takes and it is a real commitment of time, energy and hard work. It’s not something that can be done when someone feels like it or when there is time, raising livestock is something you have to make time for on a daily basis. It’s hard enough with daily feeding, shots, watering etc., But when you throw into the mix training the animal to be a show animal there are countless hours of training as well. Plenty of long days and late nights.

The future of us all depends on the youth and I can see a bright future with the youth of Young County while attending the stock show. Not all will go on to raise crops and livestock but some will fall in love with the lifestyle, some will find different things they love about farm and ranch life, maybe one will be inspired to be a vet, maybe one will work or start a grain or seed company, there are many facets of the farm and ranch industry and every single one of the jobs is crucial to make up a successful whole to the industry.

I love to see the pride in a youth’s eyes as they parade their animals in front of the judge, ever hopeful that their animal and showmanship will catch the eye of the judge. Some will stay awake all night, working with their animals for the big show, daydreaming of big shiny belt buckles that can only be obtained by the few and only through their acts and deeds. For those who don’t win, we see you and your hard work, your integrity, grit, and dedication is shining brightly. This is Will B saying, the future is secure in our youth.