Boldness: Some synonyms for boldness include audacity, nerve, and conspicuousness. The term may describe someone who stands out in a crowd, is outspoken, or has an intense presence. While none of those characteristics are negative or wrong, there is also something to be said for a person who shows boldness in a more reserved approach. Some examples might include: Stick by your values, even if it means standing alone. Help someone who cannot repay you. Stand up for someone when it is not the popular thing to do. Show great sportsmanship in the ring, on the field, or on the court when the outcome is less than what you wanted. Being…
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Thank a Stock Show Kid
Many livestock judges, at some point during Showmanship or the Grand Drive, will often look at the fresh faces of the stock show kids in and around the ring and deliver a similar message: Thank your parents. Thank your grandparents. Thank your breeder, advisor, or agent. Thank whoever it is that got you to this point. The ones that help make it possible for you to be a stock show kid. I love that. I love judges taking time to ask youth to recognize how blessed they are to be stock show kids. To value the time, effort, and money it takes the grown-ups in their lives. I don’t…
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Principles for Success: Boldness
What it Boldness? Boldness is the confidence and courage to do what is right regardless of the circumstances or others’ opinions. Bold people are determined, initiating and self-assured. They are seen as leaders. “Nice” people often hold back, leaving the bold statements and actions to the ones least capable of leading well. Developing appropriate boldness will empower you to be an effective team member and a strong, capable leader. Being bold helps you communicate effectively, persuade powerfully and share ideas. Without boldness, your valuable input will not be heard. Not speaking up lowers your value to the team and can be discouraging to those who try to move the team…
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Behind the Label: Mid-Year New Products
It is the most wonderful time of the year. Summertime! It is a magical time of the year, School’s out; Livestock Shows are happening all across the country all the way from Junior Nationals to County Fairs and Jackpot shows. Another reason why it is the best time of year is for the New Products that get to launch. It feels like Christmas in June! Just like each of you working to perfect your animal for shows, Weaver works hard to perfect and come out with new products that make showing fun and helps you be successful whatever level of showing you are at. Pig Waterer- Our mission was to…
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Principles for Success: Respect
What is Respect? Respectful people show admiration and esteem for others and are known for their courtesy and kindness. Respect is more than a feeling; it is reflected in behavior that values and shows appreciation for others. People who lack respect disregard others and do not recognize others’ positions or achievements. Disrespectful people are discourteous and may be impolite and offensive. Respect is required to achieve success in your personal life and in the show ring. We cannot have successful relationships without respect because it reveals how much we value and care for others. Without respect, others cannot trust that our intentions and decisions will be anything but selfishly motivated.…
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Stock Show Anthem: Purple Banners
The stock show industry has always played a big part in my life. I started out showing pigs and then after some convincing, my parents let me start showing steers as well. My family has deep roots in farming and raising livestock. Growing up I didn’t necessarily think that raising show animals is where I was headed, but I did always know that I wanted to be a cattleman. Sure, there are plenty of negative things that go on in the show industry, but for every one of them, there are 100 more positive things happening. Such as, learning to work hard, being responsible, how to win and lose,…
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Ode to the Ringman
From the NAILE to the local county fair, it takes a team of individuals to pull off a successful livestock show. Often, the effort of the team is overlooked. In the quest for banners, in the rush to tear down and head home, in the fun that’s been had it’s easy to forget to acknowledge the efforts of those who made it all happen. One such thankless job is that of the ringman, ringwoman, ring steward if you will. Ode to the Ringman Pushing ornery sheep, separating pigs and twisting heifer tails. Catching loose critters. Dusting off kids, whispering to them, “Get back out there.” Efficient ringmen make it…
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Principles for Success: Influence
Influence is the power to affect, guide and shape the opinions and actions of others without making them feel pressured. It is a way to motivate your fellow showmen toward common goals. Hand-in-hand with sportsmanship in and out of the show ring, influence equips you to leave a legacy that will outlast you, extend your reach, provide you with new opportunities and help you become a better industry leader. Throughout your show career, you’ll come across people who will influence you both positively and negatively. It’s important to keep in mind the main components that make up influence while being sure to keep in check things that stand in…
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Getting Started – Goats
“The hardest part is getting started,” KC Sherwood. How many times have you heard that? Parents, ag teachers, extension agents, coaches… They all use this line as a form of encouragement. What if I told you Weaver Leather Livestock came out with an answer to make getting started easier? No really, they did! I know how overwhelming it can be once you get your project home. You got the goat you wanted, you quickly took all the notes you could from the breeder; but now you’re home and you don’t know what all you need or how to use the thousands of products listed on the Weaver website.…
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Principles for Success: Teachability
What is Teachability? Teachability is more than being smart; it’s a willingness and capacity to learn from others. Teachable people are receptive to instruction and have a thirst for knowledge and growth. They receive information and correction with an eager and motivated spirit, and they approach every situation as an opportunity to learn. Showmen who are teachable are likely to be successful because they see every experience as a learning tool and an opportunity for growth. They are open to feedback, and they handle discouragement and criticism gracefully and productively. Teachable exhibitors increase their capabilities and understanding, broadening their opportunities because they are accepting of other people’s wisdom. Exhibitors who…
