Front Row (L to R): Katie Lehnert, Lawrenceburg, Tenn.; Segayle Foster, Lockney, Texas; Reba Hicks, Slocomb, Ala.; Megan Hunt, New Madison, Ohio; Ashley Quiggins, Horse Cave, Ky.; Kelsey Rutt, Minden, Neb.; Kelsey Culp, Nicholasville, Ky. Back Row (L to R): Taylor Graham, Crossville, Tenn.; Quintin Bucher, Marietta, Ill.; Shane McGlohtlin, Anadarko, Okla.; Josh Nelson, Valparaiso, Neb.  Not pictured: Senee Foster, Lockney, Texas

Dream A Little, Learn A Lot

All of our lives we have been told to dream a little dream, and if we work hard enough we accomplish it. I was five years old and decided I would dream to become a veterinarian. I am now at the age of 19, and still working toward that dream. Showing cattle has taught me the essential lessons I need in order to accomplish my goals, and even a little more sometimes. I learned quickly that a person never lost anything from waking up a little earlier, brushing a calf more frequently or staying in the barn until a parent said “Bedtime!” When the time arrived to load up and head to a show, I realized no matter what the outcome, I had worked my hardest to do the best I could. I have carried this lesson with me to Auburn University and throughout life, where the same skills have been more than beneficial. I encourage all juniors to focus on achieving their dreams. Also, do not forget those who help you out along the way. Whether the people helping you are your parents, fitters or breeders, a well deserved thank you is never out of order.

Our association is made up of so many of these great people and without them, many events would not be possible. One of the events that would not be possible without the help of numerous supporters is the 2010 National Junior Heifer Show in Springfield, Illinois. The event will be held June 27- July 2, 2010 and I encourage everyone to come out and “Get Your Kicks on Route 66,” as this is the theme for the 2010 NJHS. I hope to see all of you there, as I am sure this year will be a great success with all of the hard work and planning of the show! If your dream is to walk away from the NJHS with a belt buckle, I encourage you to brush a little harder, rinse a little more and add those finishing touches to your heifer. I know this is asking a lot as some of you are the hardest working juniors on the show circuit, but I promise if you dream a little, you will learn a lot!

Sincerely,
Reba Hicks, Public Relations & At Large Director