The calendar pages flip by quickly, and Christmas will soon be here. If you are still looking for ideas for your favorite livestock enthusiast, don’t fret. Our Sure Champ elves have collected ideas to help make your shopping a little easier. But don’t delay; with supply issues and transportation logistics, we make no promises that […]
Thankful for the Agricultural Industry
In much of our society, things are different than they ever have been before. However, 2021 was a much better year for young people who are involved in the livestock world. Shows happened without pause, show livestock are in demand and more programs and conferences were in-person instead of cancelled or virtual. Let’s recount some […]
Mark That Card – Simmental Bulls
Placing 4-1-3-2Cuts 3-2-4 I’ll rank the Simmental bulls 4132. There’s a pair of bulls up top who I think will prove profitable, but it’s with elite seed stock production in mind where I’ll start 4. It’s hard to make cattle opened up and stout down low while still keeping them sound and flexible at the […]
A Bigger Plan Paves Path to Agriculture Passion
“We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” Proverbs 16:9 Perhaps no other verse is more fitting for one former softball player turned future agriculture teacher. Growing up in Rockingham County, Virginia, the most abundant ag county in the state, it might seem natural for a young person to be involved in 4-H or FFA, especially if […]
Through the Judge’s Eyes: Scotten Sticks with the Basics, Looks for Animals to be 12 o’clock
Spencer Scotten knows what it takes to make a champion. And his criteria for a champion market goat or breeding doe probably aren’t too much different than any other judges since he’s looking for a balance of width, muscle, boldness, balance and structure. However, when an exhibitor hits the ring, his or her goat best be dialed […]
Through the Judge’s Eyes: Schaake Looks for Good First Impression
Trends can change with a blink of an eye when it comes to showing lambs, especially when it comes to chasing extremes. However, Scott Schaake prefers to stick to the basics when evaluating lambs and keep things “in the middle of the road.” “I’m not the norm when it comes to sheep because I’ve never […]