Electric Co-op Today

A Florida electric cooperative has shined the spotlight of competition on the state’s next generation of cattle exhibitors.

Olivia Baker is all smiles after winning a 5th place ribbon for Novice Showmanship at a co-op-sponsored show. (Photo By: Mark Sellers/PRECO)

Dozens of young exhibitors from across the state trailered their stock to the Hardee County Fairgrounds for Peace River Electric Cooperative’s third annual preview show, Dec. 10-11.

“We had more than 165 youngsters and nearly 240 head of cattle,” said Nell McCauley, the Wauchula-based co-op’s chief marketing and member services officer. “We had 21 of the state’s 67 counties represented.”

Not everyone went home with a trophy, but all participants learned more about competitive livestock exhibitions as they honed the skills that could lead to victories at future shows.

“I was very impressed with both the high quality of cattle and young people who participated in the event,” said John Grimes, an Ohio State University Extension Service beef coordinator. The Hillsboro, Ohio, rancher and nationally ranked exhibitor judged the two-day show.

“The exhibitors who attended this show will be much better prepared for their local county and state fairs,” Grimes said.

The co-op has sponsored the show since it was first conceived in 2009 as a way of supporting young people involved in Future Farmers of America and the 4-H Youth Development Organization. Since then, co-op staffers have worked with other community volunteers to raise money for prizes and other expenses.

Volunteers and community sponsors make the show possible, said Jeff Cornelius, PRECO’s energy services manager. “Because of their support, we were able to offer a free clinic and meals and return 100 percent of the entry fees to the show winners.”

Tags: Co-op Newsmakers, Commitment to Community, Local Initiative