Boots, Tiaras and Herefords

Hereford Holiday Classic Sale

2012-01-06T21:35:00.004-05:00

My second stop was to the Hereford Holiday Classic Sale in Clinton, Illinois! This sale's consignors were Crane Herefords, Stephens and Loehr Herefords, Young Cattle Co., and Sayre Herefords. This group of people had their arms open to me the moment I arrived in Clinton and stepped out of the truck! They reminded me that the Hereford breed not only has great cattle, but an even better set of breeders! I have become acquainted with many of the other Illinois Hereford breeders and it was great to catch up with them at the sale as well. I even got a picture with Mr. JW Crane! Thank you again to these families for being so kind and supportive!

~in Hereford spirit, your Queen Amanda Bacon

1st Stop~Louisville, Kentucky

2012-01-06T20:31:00.003-05:00

My second half of the North American International Livestock Exposition (aka NAILE) was just as great as the first! With the classes a little bit bigger in size it wasn't quite as fast pace, allowing me to make it back and forth from the awards table to the ring exit with a little time to spare! I was so thankful for all of those who helped taxi me from my hotel to the exposition center, Mr. Andrew Garnhart of Mud Creek Farms and Mr. Travis Pierce of Pierce's Hereford Haven. Without these two I wouldn't have made it to the show on time or I may have been spending the night in the barn, thank you again! In the ring I got help passing out ribbons and holding banners from Miss Tory Miller of Thorntown, Indiana. She was great help and great company in the ring and I was very thankful to have her with me! By the end of the day my white boots and the bottom of my white skirt were tinted with green, but it was all worth it! Louisville was a great start to my year as National Hereford Queen. But it was just the first stop of many!

~in Hereford spirit, your Queen Amanda Bacon

2011-2012 National Hereford Queen-My First Time to Wear the White!

2011-11-16T16:07:00.001-05:00

I attended my first show as the newly crowned National Hereford Queen this past week, which was the Junior show at the North American in Louisville,KY. I had a blast wearing the white, representing a great breed, and interacting with Hereford juniors! Even though I was exhausted after the show from running back and forth from the awards table to where the cattle were exiting the ring, I still thoroughly enjoyed my first experience! I'm excited to be flying back to Lousiville today for the open show and I'm excited for some more quality time with breeders!

~in Hereford spirit, your Queen Amanda Bacon

The Dudley Brother's 50th Annual Sale

2011-10-27T01:56:00.002-04:00

On Thursday, October 13th, the Dudley family had there 50th annual sale. I find it pretty incredible that their family has maintained there ranch for way over 50 years, but even more amazing that they have held their sale for an astounding 50 years! What an accomplishment!
As always, it's a joy to be around the whole family. They're a part of my Texas Hereford family, so I've known them for quite some time. One of the family members even works with my sister at Texas Tech University. Small world! Before the sale, I had the opportunity to visit with all of my Hereford friends. We took pictures and discussed how great things were going for everyone! The sale started at 1 PM and went fast and furious! There were almost 200 lots so it was going to be a LONG sale! After the sale, I met a lady from Herefordshire, England that was on her honeymoon. It was so neat getting to meet and converse with her! She's from Herefordshire! That's so cool!! The Dudley Brother's Sale was a huge success and getting to see my Hereford family was more than worth the trip!

The Hershey state of Pennsylvania!

2011-10-12T16:07:00.005-04:00

From College Station, Texas to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, this was without a
doubt a distance to travel! My flight left early on Thursday morning and I arrived
in Harrisburg Around 7 PM that night. I met up with my Dad at the Dallas/ Fort
Worth Airport, we traveled from therein together. I definitely slept on ALL
three of my connecting flights, while dad was wide awake reading every magazine
and newspaper. While waiting for our shuttle we ran into Mr. Hawk of Delhawk
Ranch. We took the shuttle to our hotel together, visited on the way and met up with him for dinner that night. He was there to judge the Angus show, but it is
always nice to see a familiar face!
Friday was the day of the Open Show. The show wasn't early, but I definitely had
a full day ahead of me being the only royalty there. I did have the honor and
privilege, however, of working with Ms. Terri Barber as she was judging the Hereford Show. Mr. John Meents was the Field Representative on duty, as well as, Ms. Amy Cowan
being there. Of course, my father was put straight to work by lining up cattle
in the the make-ready arena. I'm sure he enjoyed lining up cattle much more than
sitting by the awards. The show lasted from 2:00-7:45, including pictures and all!
It definitely is not the longest day that I have experienced as the National
Hereford Queen, but it was a great day! From watching people excitedly jump up
and down after a win, having the opportunity to meet the Pennsylvania Secretary
of Agriculture, and watching Mr. Meents hand out ribbons to a class while I was
taking a division picture, it was a wonderful day! I will have to say though, I
was expecting some very COLD weather, seeing as Texas is starting to get chilly.
Boy was I wrong, the weather was beautiful in Pennsylvania! I definitely should
have bought my summer queen outfit because at one point I thought I was going to
pass out in the process of handing out ribbons! Luckily, I had water directly brought to me that made me feel much better. After the show had come to an end with pictures and all, it was time for me to get my beauty sleep because I had an EARLY flight the next morning. Regretfully, I was unable to stay until the junior show. It basically takes me a full day to fly back to College Station, therefore, I would've missed much more school than I necessarily needed to. I would like to give a special thanks to the Firestine family. They were so supportive and helpful throughout my time at Pennsylvania! It was a breath of fresh air having them there. Overall, KILE was an incredible show!

Kickin' It In Kansas Part II

2011-09-11T18:08:00.017-04:00

The rest of the week during the National Junior Hereford Exposition flew by! Tuesday was a day full of competitions and gathering with friends. That afternoon the National Hereford Women sponsored an Ice Cream Social for the juniors. All of the queens showed up looking lovely as ever in their official dress with their sash and crowns.

The girls and I mingled throughout the crowd talking to adults, children, and members of the National Hereford Women’s Board. (Mrs. Paula Acheson and I at the Ice Cream Social)
We talked about the show and life and anything that came to mind! It was nice having the Ice Cream Social with all of the queens around interacting with anyone that wanted to talk. After the social, I had to fly to Lubbock, Texas for the State FFA Convention to receive a scholarship. That was a trip! My flight was canceled in Denver, Colorado; therefore, I had the honor of staying the night in the airport. Do you think I slept? No! It was a creepy airport during the night, but I survived it! The next morning I got the earliest flight to Lubbock and received my scholarship then flew back that night. It was all definitely worth the trip… just a LONG trip!

(My friends and I at the State FFA Convention before we went on stage)

While I was away from the NJHE, the girls worked the show arena for showmanship. They gave ribbons and congratulated all exhibitors. I had many compliments for them when I returned. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday were definitely the busiest and most exhausting days of the week. It’s non-stop work! Thursday morning, we all took our official quuen's picture for the Hereford World Magazine. Although it’s work, work, work, it’s the best part of the week. This is the time when all of the queens truly get to bond! We sit together, laugh together, and work together. Thursday was a long, long day. We seriously worked ALL day long! We did every show but the owned show. All of the shows included the cow-calf pairs, bred-and-owned bulls, junior AI bulls, bred-and owned-heifers, and the junior AI heifers. It was a successful day for many exhibitors.Friday was a long day as well! The owned show lasted all day long. We seriously didn’t end with pictures from divisions and all until the beginning of the banquet. I was running to the banquet with my parents and when they introduced all of the State Queens and me as I was walking through the backdoor. The banquet went well with retiring speeches and award presentations. After the banquet pictures were taken and everybody got back to the barns to do their work. Friday started early and was bittersweet. I was FINALLY the last day of the NJHE which also meant the last day I would see everyone! We had all gained some hardcore muscles from holding the insanely heavy rocks as well as me holding the bronze bulls. The awards were definitely the coolest and most unique I’ve ever seen! As the show progressed, people were anticipating the Grand Drive. This is honestly my favorite part of any National Show. Everyone circles around the edges of the show ring, the stands are full, the cameras are on, and the queens are smiling. It is such an exciting moment! After the winners were chosen, pictures were taken and goodbyes were given. By the time the queens and I were done with pictures, the barn was practically empty! Everybody was already loaded up and ready to head out. My week of the National Junior Hereford Exposition as the National Hereford Queen was incredible! There are so many people that helped me throughout the week and so many I want to thank. Even my National Hereford Queen's Basket raised an astounding amount of money! Thank you to all that to contributed to my basket! Thank you especially to my wonderful queen coordinator, Ms. Margeaux Firestine! She was like my "big sister" all week long! My family and Texas Hereford family were so amazing and supportive. I always love getting to meet back up with ALL of my Hereford family because of the continual support they give me!

First Annual National Hereford Queen's Tea!

2011-07-25T19:12:00.014-04:00

The National Junior Hereford Exposition came fast and quick and was gone in a flash! While everyone was “Kickin it in Kansas” on Monday morning, I was preparing for the first annual National Hereford Queen’s Tea! It was a fun getting to make sandwiches, fruit bowls, and setting up all of the sweets. Luckily, I had the help from my wonderful mother, Sarah Smith (our Texas Polled Hereford Queen), her friend Riley, and Mrs. Barbara Metch. Mrs. Barbara is always there when we need her most and I truly appreciate her friendship. These very helpful ladies helped make the most delicious sandwiches I’ve ever had. I sat all lonely in the very NEW kitchen of the upstairs part of the stock show center. Thankfully, Mrs. Cindy Lambert wanted to check out what was going on in the kitchen and see what we were making. She ended up helping me clean all of the fruit. Once all the food was prepared, we had to wait to set up the ‘Queen’s Tea’ room because scholarship interviews were going on. While we were waiting patiently and placing food on the plates in particular orders, my lovely queen coordinator Margeaux Firestine and her mother joined us with helping hands! Once the room was open to decorate we all dashed quickly to rearrange tables, chairs, crowns, and food. Thanks to all of my help it looked fantastic and for our new Texas Hereford Queen Kim Wilson and her sweet mom for pitching in last minute! After we set up everything, I went and put on my queen outfit and prepared for the Queen’s Tea I had ahead of me. Once I stepped foot outside of the changing room, I ran into Miss Diane Johnson, owner of Details by Design and the speaker for our etiquette session. Ms. Johnson and I discussed what would be talked about during the etiquette session and how excited she was for my tea! Sooner than I would have imagined, people started showing up; little girls in their Sunday best with big bows following their mothers, anxious to get attention from one of the many queens. I started off the tea by introducing myself as the National Hereford Queen and giving a brief history of my travels since I was crowned in October of last year in 2010. After speaking, I introduced Ms. Diane Johnson who gave an overview to the girls about where to put their napkins and the different foods that are normally served for an ‘English Tea.’ Once the food was discussed, everyone got in line to get fill thier plates with our wonderful goodies and sat down for a little more etiquette. I then had the honor of introducing all of the state queens. They all stood up at the front and said their name and state. Finally at the end of my tea, all the little girls in attendance got an autographed photo of myself, and the chance to have their picture taken with either myself or any of the Hereford Queens in attendance. This final part of the tea I thought was really special. I felt that overall this first National Hereford Queen’s Tea was a true success! (The wonderful Arkansas girls) (The lovely Texas girls) (This picture is simply adorable!)
Immediately after the Tea, we had a State Queen’s Orientation, which in a nutshell is where we told everyone who was a queen in attendance what to expect for the upcoming week. Serving as a state queen at our Jr. National Hereford Expo is quite an undertaking with long hours in the show ring and an audience who watches you every move. It’s important to not only assist in the ring with walking in the classes of outstanding Hereford/Polled Hereford cattle, but be ready to assist in the award pictures and be a spokesperson at a moment’s notice if you are asked to be. Each girl realizes that their judges may be in the stands and they take their rolls very seriously.
I appreciate everyone who came to my tea; the over eighty-eight in attendance! I felt it was my way to give back and hold a special event for our special little girls and big girls in our association. A special thank you for my parents, Scott and Alise Nolan for hosting this event under our ranch name, Nolan Herefords. Thank you also to those National Hereford Women in attendance. And to all the girls in attendance, I hope that you one day will consider running for National Hereford Queen. It’s been an absolute thrilling experience all year to represent the best breed of cattle in the nation - Herefords!
After a long day of being with our glamorous queens, we had state pictures and opening ceremonies. I had the honor of walking in with Rossie Blinson, National Junior Hereford President, holding our American flag. Rossie and I were the first to walk out into the empty show ring with the stands full of parents and exhibitors. We made our way to the center of the arena and Rossie sang the 'Star Spangled Banner' with that beautiful voice of hers! After the National Anthem, everyone started to walk in with their state flags with exhibitors following. It took some time to get everyone in the ring, but once we did the rest of opening ceremonies began. Awards were given to those juniors exhibiting in their last Jr. Nationals and sponsors were recognized. Towards the end of opening ceremonies the National Hereford Women sponsored a raffle for a free Hereford heifer. I had the honor of drawing our lucky winner Brady Jensen of Kansas! After Brady's name was chosen, the opening ceremonies came to a close. Directly following opening ceremonies, it was time for our annual dance with kids of all ages. We always have a blast!
The first official day at Jr. Nationals will always be near and dear to my heart when I reflect back on my time as National Hereford Queen. It was a fun day filled with not only our first National Hereford Tea, but our great opening ceremonies kicking off the greatest Jr. Nationals in our great nation!

At 2011 Junior National with the Hereford Queens

2011-07-24T08:14:00.009-04:00

The 2011 Hereford Queens at the Junior National... ENJOY!

Texas Junior Hereford/ Polled Hereford State Show

2011-07-06T20:46:00.008-04:00

The Texas Junior Hereford/ Polled Hereford State Show is one hectic and jam packed function! We do just about everything that goes on at Junior Nationals in 4 days. Crazy, I know! The State Show was in Belton, Texas this year. This show was lead off by our Texas Junior Polled Hereford Association President, Shelby Rogers, and our Texas Hereford President, Mallorie Phelps. All of the officers, directors, and advisor's from both associations met up on Tuesday night before the show started to do an overview of what our duties were for the week and finally get to see each other and sit down and talk.

Wednesday morning came bright and early for many, as they were all trying to beat the heat of Texas to get to the barns. I got the duty of telling people where their stalls were, but truly I was basically the "Meet and Greet Committee" and did a fine job at it! Throughout the day, old friends and new members moved their tack and cattle into the barns, signed up for competitions, and visited with everyone. Luckily, at our state show we have every meal sponsored so that no one has to leave the barn. It's quite convenient! After everyone made their way into the barns and set up their stalls, there was a swimming party at a water park nearby. Kids were slipping and sliding throughout the park, while Kirbie Day, Mallorie Phelps, and I discussed our upcoming year together at Texas A&M University. The night was short lived and came to end very soon because people had to get up for showmanship the next day.

Thursday arrived with opening ceremonies at the beginning. Mallorie and Shelby gave introductions to all of the special guest that we had at our state show (including me) and introduced our theme which was "Hereford's Rock!" We took a HUGE state picture and had an Elvis impersonator sing for us. He was definitely entertaining! Once opening ceremonies had ceased shadow showmanship had begun. For those of you that don't know, shadow showmanship is for kids in the pee-wee age group or younger and they have an older mentor help them in the show ring and teach them any 'tricks of the trade.' It's a very neat opportunity for kids that don't have an older sibling to teach them. After that, showmanship had officially started. There were two separate rings and overly intense competition! I was happy to be watching rather than competing against those kids! After showmanship, there was team marketing and team fitting and then the dance! Of course the dance was full of fun and laughter with kids of all ages dancing! I had to leave a little early because I was a very tired girl and if I wanted to be alert queen the next day, I had to get my beauty rest!

Friday started off with the Bred and Owned Show, Cow-Calf Pair Show, Junior A.I., Steer Show, and Bull Show. It was a busy morning for the queens, but very exciting because I got the honor of working with my Texas Royalty! The girls were awesome! After the show, we had livestock judging and lunch out at Curtis Younts' Ranch. The lunch and judging was wonderful, but the heat was HOT! That night we had our banquet led by the officers from both associations. Scholarships, new Hereford Royalty, and contest winners were announced. I had the honor of presenting the Texas Hereford Association's new royalty with their sash and crown along with Ashley Cline the past Texas Hereford Sweetheart and Garrett Floyd who is the boy with the highest position on the officer team. It's a tradition for the Texas Junior Hereford Association's boy with the highest office to present the new royalty with their flowers. Our new Texas Hereford Queen is Kim Wilson and our new Texas Hereford Sweetheart is Hannah Schnieder. They are both past Texas Hereford Sweethearts and I know they will do an excellent job!

Saturday morning came in full blast! All of the new Texas Hereford and Polled Hereford Royalty was ready to hand out some ribbons and awards! The girls all took turns giving out ribbons to classes and who got to walk in divisions with me. At the end when the grand drive had arrived, all of the Polled Hereford Royalty stood with me in the ring, as well as the Horned Hereford Royalty did on the separate grand drives. Tyler Allen won both the polled and horned show! Congratulations Tyler! Pictures were taken after the show was over, and there were a TON taken! But no big deal, the royalty could take it! State show was a blast and definitely got everybody geared up and excited for the National Junior Hereford Expo in Kansas City! We will have Mallorie Phelps representing our great state of Texas as Director of Communications on the National Junior Hereford Board, as well as having Shelby Rogers running for National Director! I am literally counting down the hours until I get to Junior Nationals! I cannot wait to see all of my Hereford friends, the new state's royalty, and have the first annual Queen's Tea! I will keep everyone updated on the blogs and try to do them daily!

Texas Polled Hereford Association All-Star Sale

2011-06-23T16:33:00.009-04:00

Hereford girls, Hereford girls... Tell me what's better than that?! NOTHING!
The All-Star Cattle Sale is put on by the Texas Polled Hereford Association. Luckily I was able to make it to this sale, but regretfully I couldn't attend the Tennessee River Music, Inc. Sale because it was during my graduation. It was sad not to attend their sale, but I am now happy to say how close I am to Texas A&M University! The All-Star Sale is jam packed with queen and sweetheart interviews, chili cook-offs, dessert tasting, and of course the sale! As soon as I arrived at the Shocke residence in Sherman, Texas, my Texas Polled Hereford friends greeted me with joy. First of started the queens contest. We had the most talent and beautiful girls come in and out of the intense interviews. Miss Keely Hamman and I decided to hang out with the girls in the waiting room; we enjoyed the fact that we were not stressing out about being interviewed since we are both past state queens. It was wonderful! All of the queen and sweetheart candidate's interviews went very well! Once the stressful interviews had ceased it was time to eat! The chili was amazing as well as dessert, but I would like to add that eating chili is NOT the easiest thing to do in an all white outfit! I stayed clean though. That night after we ate, we announced the results of queen and sweetheart. Our lovely Texas Polled Hereford Queen, Keely Hamman, announced as I crowned them with their new sash and banner. The newly crowned queen was the lucky Miss Sarah Smith with the princess Miss Tracy Brent. We also crowned three sweethearts who were Morgan Dobbs, Ruth Ann Kettler, and Molly Booth. All of the wonderful ladies will do an excellent job representing the Texas Polled Hereford Association this next year. Congratulations! Once we knew who all of our royalty were, we announced the winners of the best desserts and chilis. It was fun just to 'hang out' with everyone.
From left to right: Ruth Ann Kettler, Molly Booth, Tracey Brent, Sarah Smith, and Me!

Star Lake Cattle Ranch Sale

2011-06-22T16:15:00.010-04:00

Oklahoma was the next place I went! I traveled longs hours to reach the destination of Stillwater, Oklahoma at the Star Lake Cattle Ranch. This was my first time to make it to this sale, and it was definitely worth it! Friday night was full of meeting and greeting with plenty of Hereford breeders and buyers. We had a delicious steak dinner as I sat with some old Texas friends and new ones that I made. They auctioned off numerous embryos at the dinner that night. Some were sold at the dinner and some online. All of the embryos being sold online made me think of how far technology has come. I mean really, there’s more opportunity for others to get what they desire even if they are unable to attend the function. I find it fascinating!

After dinner, the party really started! The band was blaring “Benny and the Jets,” as well as, plenty of other (in my terms) ‘old school’ songs. Sadly, the night had to come to an end although people still stayed out rather late. I could hear their voices echoing all of the songs from our RV that we took to the sale.

I had a full day ahead of me on Saturday. There were 200 lots of cattle to sale! That’s a lot just in case you didn’t know. This is a picture of Mrs. Susan Rader and I. She is from my area of deep East Texas and has always been so supportive of me. Saturday morning was all about being the highest bidder, and boy, oh boy, there were definitely some high bids! The first lot in the ring was a sight to see, but it had the nasty scours! The heifer turned around as swiftly as it could and its manure spewed across the front row. Luckily, I had someone who gallantly stepped in front of me taking the main blow... thank you Mr. Joe Rickabaugh. I will forever be indebted to him for his chivalry to protect my bright white dress! My mom said it was just like a tractor pull...don't ever sit on the first row!

It was a very long day, but I could only stay for so long because I had an extremely long drive ahead of my family and I. So I said my said and heartfelt goodbyes and we went on our way home. It was great getting to spend my weekend with Blin Family as well as the Star Lake Cattle Ranch Crew. I always love getting to see Mrs. Kim Herman. She has been one of my biggest supporters throughout my race as queen. She is a past National Hereford Queen and gave me great advice and told me that she remembered the first time that she received her white boots. Thank you Mrs. Herman for being such an inspiration to me!

Thank you again Star Lake for an unforgettable trip and sale!

Hats Off to Herefords!

2011-06-15T21:29:00.005-04:00

After the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, I had a very nice little break before scholarships and sales hit me full throttle! The first sale that I was able to attend was the annual 'Hats Off to Herefords Sale' in Morgan, Texas held on W4 Ranch. Regretfully, I was unable to make it to the Larson Polled Hereford Sale in Clifton, Texas do to a death. This was very disappointing to me as they were so kind as to invite me to the sale personally and take care of any accommodations I needed. Although I was unable to make it to Larson’s Sale, it made me even more excited to see my Hereford family at our sale in Morgan, Texas. Coincidentally, I had an Area FFA interview on the same day! How convenient, right? But luckily I have parents that are so involved and help make sure that I can try and attend every possible event because this was a $16,000 scholarship on the line!
I switched times with another FFA student so I could be the absolute FIRST person in the interview room. My mother and I had a 5 hour drive ahead of us in order to make it to the sale, so we were definitely trying to find any possible way to make the interview go as quick and early as possible. Once the interview was over we headed straight to Morgan, Texas with no stops in mind! By the way, I made it to State! Five hours later the wonderful white suburban got us to what we “thought” was W4 Ranch, oh but we were sadly mistaken! We drove around and only saw land, land, and MORE land! We finally decided, about 10 minutes later, that we should probably turn around and ask for some directions because we obviously had no clue where we were at. When we stopped by a gas station little girls selling cookies and brownies for cheerleading oohed and awed at my sash and crown while asking me tons of questions while my mother got directions to W4 Ranch. When we arrived at W4 Ranch I was greeted by all of my lovely Hereford family. Too bad I wasn’t there for the full sale, but at least I made it! After the sale concluded, everyone stayed around and talked about life and how close it was for school to end. I even got to take pictures with Mr. Walker and a couple on the ranch. It was beautiful out in Morgan, Texas; I could have packed up and moved right that second! The neatest thing was that even after the sale Mr. Walker let the people that were staying fish on his lake. It was so beautiful outside and a great way to spend time with my Hereford family!

Where oh where did my white skirt go?!

2011-06-14T23:26:00.007-04:00

Shortly after the Northeast Texas Hereford Association Annual Sale, the Houston Livestock Show had finally arrived! To be honest this is one of my favorite shows because besides the horrible humidity of South Texas, it’s not absolutely freezing cold weather. It’s actually quite pleasant and the timing of the show is impeccable! It’s always been during my Spring Break, but I actually don’t know any other way that I would want to spend my break than at the show. People started to pile in on Wednesday throughout the early morning and late that night. This is the type of show where people come and wait in line all the night long because the stall assignments are first come first served. Once everyone was set up in their stalls, the fun had begun! I walked around visiting with all of my old friends that I had not seen in a while and we laughed at all of the old stories we shared and caught each other up on new ones. We had our annual meeting on Saturday to discuss the activities for our Texas State Show and to determine which committees each officer and director were on.

Sunday was show day! It’s always no fun at all having to wait until the last day of the show to show, but they obviously saved the best breed for last! I got to the barns bright and early to take care of my heifer and as soon as I was done I went to the show ring to make sure all of the awards were set up for the show. Our Texas Hereford Sweetheart, Ashley Cline, was going to be in charge of the awards for the first division in the show seeing as I was in the second class. Luckily we had a Hereford native as our judge, Mr. Blake Bloomburg; it’s always nice to have someone I know to work with in the show ring. This year, I showed for my very last time in the Houston show ring with the green shavings… it was kind of bittersweet. But after my class and division were done, I headed straight to grab all of my queen belongings and go change. As I’m in the restroom I start to get my clothes out, and yes it’s the still the winter outfit so I had many layers, but I couldn’t seem to find my skirt! Get this… I had packed three of my white blazers and NO skirt! I mean how on earth could I forget my skirt?! It was 9 A.M. and the vendors were definitely not open yet. What was I going to do? All of the sudden I just broke down. I was literally crying in the corner of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo restroom sitting on top of my pink suitcase under my flower printed hanging bag next to my crown box. I was crying to my sadly saying, “I can’t be queen! What is everyone going to think?! …. I’m such a horrible person!” Now my mother, on the other hand, is the calm one in this situation, which is definitely a change in roles for the two if us. Mom told me to stay where I was and not to leave because she was going to find me a skirt. In my mind I thought, “How on earth are you going to find a WHITE skirt at a stock show when all of the vendors are closed?” But of course I just kept my mouth shut and nodded my head. Shortly after my mom left me all alone in the restroom I was still sulking and my student ag teacher came in. She told me mom sent her to stay with me so people didn’t think I was the weirdest person alive sitting with my queen wardrobe (besides my skirt) in the bathroom. My student teacher, Casey Page, was trying to comfort me as I cried and then I received a phone call from my mom, well super-mom, because she had miraculously found me a white skirt! Can you believe it?! I mean all of the stores were closed. Suddenly the tears vanished and a huge smile came onto my face. Casey Page and I started doing a happy dance in the restroom; this was definitely a moment for my happy dance regardless of the fact that I was in my turtleneck, blazer, tall white socks, and my slip. It was a great moment! I told Casey that she had definitely experienced a one of a kind thing that not many student teachers go through. How many student teachers have to go and sit with a student that is bawling her eyes out in the restroom because she forgot her white skirt in order to do her National Hereford Queen duties? Not many… or any! I definitely couldn’t have sat through that excruciating moment without her with me! When my mom came running back into the restroom she had the puffiest ruffled white skirt that I had ever seen, but I was wearing that thing regardless of the style. As super-mom helped me into my skirt we didn’t realize it was an EXTRA-LARGE!!! Thank goodness for safety pins! Once I was finally in my outfit, I did the queenliest fast walk that anybody had ever seen. I got into the show ring right when the Grand Drive had started for Hereford heifers. Yeah, I was little late but no big deal I still had the Polled Hereford show still to go next. Of course when all of my friends saw me they had to take pictures and giggle with me over what I had just gone though. But no big deal, I can take it.

It was a blast as usual to work in the ring with my Hereford royalty girls. This was the last show I got to work with them. Very sad day but now the girls are on to the next chapter in their lives which I know will be great! Overall the show was definitely a success; we even had a Hereford win Supreme Champion! Congratulations Rope Stewart! Although the start of my day was much more stressful than usual, I know that I can always count on my family and friends to turn my day around! In the picture below I am accompanied by Miss Keely Hamman who definitely made my day ten times better chuckling over my skirt mishap! I just wanted to give you a picture of the FULL and oh so lovely queen attire I had on for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo! :)

Northeast Texas Hereford Association Annual Sale

2011-06-13T23:09:00.005-04:00

Deep East Texas where the pine trees grow in Mount Pleasant, Texas is where the Northeast Texas Hereford Association Annual Sale was located… which is basically my hometown! Not many Hereford events occur anywhere near to where I live, so this was a nice and delightful little change. This sale is full of old breeder and new breeders from all over Texas. We all had a scrumptious lunch and socialized for a while before the sale began. I even got to meet a couple of breeders from the East Texas area that I surprisingly didn’t know. Before the sale started the auctioneer did the normal introductions of special guests and ring assistants and I was called forward. The Northeast Texas Hereford Association donated money to my queen travels and wardrobe. It was very, very kind of them to do such a thing and appreciated! After the introductions were given the sale had begun; buyers were bidding and I was sitting while smiling! The sale was a success and I enjoyed spending time with my East Texas natives on March 12th. It’s always a great time!

Why hello there Cowtown!

2011-06-13T16:26:00.014-04:00

Wow…what a past couple of months it has been! From being crazy busy completing scholarship applications and preparing to graduate, it’s all finally over! I can breathe!! Regretfully I haven’t had the time to just sit down and share my past queen travels. I can’t believe I’ve been so unbelievably busy since January but now I want to share everything I’ve gone through as queen.

After Denver I excitingly got to come to the stockyards in Fort Worth, Texas to the Southwestern Exposition Livestock Show. As crazy as it is, this show is where my family decided that the Hereford breed was what we were going to show, so this show is very near and dear to my family’s heart! First off was the Fort Worth Junior Livestock Show. It was filled with seeing old friends, working sifts, meetings, and of course working in the show ring. I had the honor of working with ALL of Texas’s royalty, which is no small number. The show went by quickly and successfully for all of the winners. It was a blast getting to spend time with all of the juniors from the Texas Hereford/Polled Hereford Associations and my friends that show other breeds as well, but I was anxious for the Fort Worth Open Show to come at me in full throttle!

This is a picture with the sponsors of the Grand and Reserve Champion for the Hereford show. They have sponsored this prize for many years and it has become a tradition with their family.

This is a picture of my older and younger sisters, Audrey and Ilissa, and my ag teacher Mrs. Sue Witt. Mrs. Witt has been one of my biggest supporters in just about ANYTHING that I have done!

Less than a week later, the Fort Worth Open Show had arrived! I was surrounded by some of the greatest Hereford breeders in our nation, what a weekend this was going to be! I left directly after school on Friday with my mother and little sister, Audrey, to head up to the stockyards of Fort Worth. Once we arrived in Fort Worth I was greeted by my older sister, Ilissa, and my best friend Brittany. I normally bring a friend every year to the open show, especially my best friends that show Angus, Mollie and Brittany. They have seen the fun side of the Hereford breed and I hope they love it as much as I do. Brittany didn’t know the unbelievably hectic weekend she had ahead of her as being the queen’s assistant, but I will add she did a fantastic job and was very, very helpful with…. EVERYTHING! Saturday morning was full of pen shows and meetings and the night was meetings and socials. At the shows, Anderson Bean had helped create a pair of custom made boots for the grand and reserve champions. It was a pretty nifty gift! The picture beneath this is of my little sister, Audrey, my best friend Brittany, and I with the custom made boots that was a prize. The meetings and socials were a ton of fun; I loved having the time to just sit down and talk with people and not being in a rush. This social was especially special for me, seeing as my father was the Texas Hereford President this year! On Sunday we had our pen show, annual sale, and another social. It was a very hectic day with everyone running back and forth to different locations. There is one thing I would like to share about the pen show… as I was giving an award for first place in a class to an older couple, the wife started jumping up and down screaming with joy, but later in the show they won Grand Champion in the pen show! The wife not only jumped with joy again but started crying with pure happiness. That moment that I was able to share with them completely warmed my heart. It made my whole weekend more enjoyable than ever! I have the picture of the couple beneath this:

Monday was the BIG show day! It was full of prizes and royalty and people of the Hereford association. Overall being National Queen at the Fort Worth Open Show was a lot more than I expected it to be. There were so many outfit changes and many distances walked in my lovely white boots, but I couldn’t have done any of it without my family, Brittany, and my Hereford friends that weekend!

This picture is of my family and friends that are basically my family for the Fort Worth Open Show weekend! Left to right: My mother, Alise, Ashley (my sister's best friend), Ilissa (my sister), ME, Brittany (my best friend), my father, Scott, and my little sister Audrey!

Queens' Tea

2011-04-26T09:07:00.003-04:00

National Hereford Queen
Bethany Nolan
cordially invites you to a
Queen’s Tea

When: Monday, July 11, 2011, One o’clock in the afternoon

Where: Governor’s Room, American Royal Complex

Who: For young ladies of ages three – thirteen years & their parents,
past National Hereford Queens & current State Hereford Queens

RSVP: On your NJHA entry forms with number of adults & members attending.

Sponsored by Nolan Hereford Ranch, Gilmer, Texas

Please wear a casual summer ‘sun’ dress and enjoy a morning of tea, sweets, and the chance to meet all the candidates for 2011 – 2012 National Hereford Queen’s contest. This will also be a fun way to meet young ladies who are Hereford enthusiasts from across our nation. Please bring your camera as those in attendance will have the opportunity to have their pictures taken with National Hereford Queen Bethany Nolan and our State Queens.

Parents and young ladies ages of three through thirteen years of age are invited to attend. Parents are asked to accompany children under the age of eight years old. National Hereford Queen Bethany Nolan anticipates this to be a royal event with food, fun, and an overview of etiquette and the tradition of tea by Ms. Diane Johnson, proprietor, Details by Design.

Please join us for Queen Bethany’s Tea and don’t forget to RSVP on your NJHA entry forms!

State Queen Chairmen Check Your Email!

2011-04-11T16:57:00.004-04:00

State Hereford Queen Chairmen, please check your email inbox for information regarding the Junior National Hereford Expo! Please contact the National Hereford Women Chairman ASAP if you did not receive this email! It is very important that we have an accurate count of how many queens will be present at the Junior National Hereford Expo this summer in Kansas City!

National Western Stock Show!

2011-01-27T21:09:00.006-05:00

One of the most exciting things as Queen is getting to interact with all the friends I have made throughout the years showing Herefords. The greatest benefit of traveling across the country each year is the amazing friendships I have made. Each time I attend a National Hereford Show it's like a mini Jr. Nationals all over again. For weeks before, my friends and I reconnect via Facebook and text. The chance to reconnect with them and their families at the show is always a special time. I've always said Herefords friends are like my family... they are always happy to see me and congratulate me. I knew Denver would be no different and was excited to finally be at the show.

For an East Texas girl, snow is few and far in between. That first morning in Denver I woke up and one of the first things I saw was snow! The Rockies and the yards had a fresh layer of snow and I knew the Herefords were in the 'yards'! I couldn't wait to experience my first National Western as the Natonal Hereford Queen!

Thursday proved to a be fun, long, and successful day for many Hereford breeders and junior showman. Bull shows have always been totally exciting to me. My favorite thing is when breeders run their bulls in to the ring. It's a bit scary when you are standing close by in all white, but thrilling all the same! I remember my first piece of advice from our first National Queen Katie Killian was to make sure you watch your back as you walk in bull classes and WALK FAST! Best advice ever!

Later that afternoon I continued to help in the ring and walked in some fantastic junior classes of Hereford heifers. Showman my age, a bit older and younger competed in the more than cold ring. I was happy to stand by each junior that won in division, reserve and grand champion pictures. I knew what hard work it took to get cattle to this winning point.

Friday proved to be a little more relaxed as I helped with the Pen Show in the yards. Pens of heifers and bulls competed all morning until the early afternoon. ad The opportunity to walk in and out as pictures were taken in the yards was really fantastic. From the distance I could see the snow covered Rockies and standing there holding banners, I got to once again visit with Hereford breeders. The added obstacle of keeping my white Queen outfit white was yet another thing. But with mom's help, she cleared the way each time!

That afternoon we arrived early to find our seat in the packed sales arena for the Mile High Night National Hereford Sale. The night was a huge success and money was once again raised to benefit the Hereford Youth Foundation Saturday, was my final day in Denver. Most of that day was filled with the hiefer show. At times it got really hectic, but with the help of my sister Ilissa, my parents, and our AHA Field Reps. my day went smoothly.

Denver proved to be a complete success, both in the yards, sale rings, and in the show ring. I look forward to going back for many more years to come. As National Hereford Queen with every show I attend, I realize how special the crown I wear is as it represents our Hereford people and great breed.

Not Enough Words to Describe This Last Month

2010-12-01T00:07:00.008-05:00

Surprising, wonderful, eventful, are just a few of the words I could use to describe the last month! Being crowned as the new 2010 - 2011 National Hereford Queen was without a doubt the most wonderful moment in my life. That day as Katie Killian, 2009 - 2010 placed my new crown on my head and my new sash around my shoulders, I knew my life would never be the same.

For the last month, I have been busy choosing my new wardrobe. The honor of wearing white suits and white boots were a daunting task! But with the Internet in front of us, my mom and I found just the right outfits with the help of our best friend 'Google'.

I looked forward toward getting to serve as National Hereford Queen at the National American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Kentucky. Tickets were bought, bags were packed and my dad and I took off on our first trip of many! Mom was a little nervous about my hair and not being with me...but felt sure dad could put in a few hair pins as needed! It had become our new family joke! You'll see a picture of my hair above!

Louisville proved to be a really great show. I can't say it wasn't really cold. I remembered showing there at a National Jr. Hereford Show, but had never shown in the 'big' ring before. Watching and assisting with the banners, ribbons, and Golden Bulls was a real honor. I guided in division after division of wonderful Hereford cattle. Standing beside them as they proudly took their class, division, and grand champion pictures made me smile from the inside out. I know the work and dedication it takes get a champion to that point and standing beside them brought back memories of my win at the Houston Jr. Livestock Show where I won Grand Champion once.

After that fast trip, it was back to high school and all my other activities. In Gilmer life in the fall revolves around football. As head cheerleader this year, I get to cheer for our defending Texas 3A State Champion Football Team. Winning district and continuing to the playoffs takes up every Saturday from November through December. This year has proven to be no exception. Just this past Saturday, our Buckeyes lost our run for state, but I couldn't have been prouder of their effort or of our cheerleaders! In the past 7 years, we have won two state titles, one of which I got to cheer for.

My second deep involvement and one that I hold right up next to my roots with Herefords is my love for the FFA. Gilmer FFA has been a constant in my life since I was in the 2nd grade. As a member of our Jr. FFA this is where I began to show Hereford cattle, hogs, and roasters. I became involved in our CDE and LDE contest each spring and fall and now serve as our Gilmer FFA Chapter President and Texas FFA Area VI Associaton First Vice President. This fall I competed for my second time in Job Interview and first time in the FFA Creed. In the last month I worked hard and practiced placing 1st at District with both contest and then advancing to area competition and then state with Job Interview. This meant a huge sacrifice was in store for me. I have found that whether it comes to football, FFA, school, or Hereford shows, schedules sometimes conflict. This case was no exception and sadly my State FFA Job Interview Contest fell on the same dates as the National Western Nugget in Reno, Nevada, my next scheduled show as queen. It's hard to be excited, but torn at the same time, but there was no other way to explain it. After much prayer and discussion with my parents it was decided for me to attend the competition, and miss Reno since it was not a mandatory show for National Hereford Queens. Adding to my decision was that I was the only person from my school to make it to the state competition. My advisers and fellow members had put a lot of faith in me to let them down now by not competing.

So as the week comes to an end I will be at Sam Houston State, not Reno. Half my heart will be in Reno, wishing I was there, but the other half will be competing, hoping that next year I can compete on the national level in Job Interview.

My month has been busy, my next year will be a whirlwind, but what a fantastic opportunity I have ahead of me. The chance to be National Hereford Queen is one I will take with me forever! Thank you to my family, and the many people who guided, mentored, and assisted me to this point. I look forward to meeting many new juniors and adult members of our associations in the next year. The opportunity to brag about our Hereford cattle, Certified Hereford Beef that I eat almost every night, and the chance to motivate and inspire juniors like myself to get involved in National Junior Hereford Association is one I will not take lightly!

Happy holidays everyone. A special hug to all the Hereford Queens I have met this last year. What a great time we had in Kansas City! And good luck if you are showing in Reno! There are not enough words to describe this last month. Thank you to everyone!

Bethany Nolan
2010 - 2011 National Hereford Queen

Coronation

2010-11-01T00:05:00.000-04:00

2011 National Hereford Queen, Bethany Nolan, 1st Runner Up, Mary Potter, 2nd Runner Up, Laken Lierle, Miss Congeniality, Mary Porter

Congratulations!

Queen Orientation

2010-10-31T23:28:00.003-04:00

On Friday afternoon the National Hereford Queen Contestants met at the American Hereford Association headquarters building. The young women had the opportunity to tour the facility and expand their knowledge of the industry.

Keystone International Livestock Show, Harrisburg, PA

2010-10-01T18:03:00.005-04:00

The National Hereford Show is currently taking place in Harrisburg, Pa. Katie Killian, National Hereford Queen was very busy, handing out ribbons and awards at her second to last show as queen!

National Hereford Queen Competition

2010-08-21T11:02:00.005-04:00

The National Hereford Queen Competition will take place this year in conjunction with the American Royal in Kansas City, MO. There are nine excellent young women running this year!

Below is the competition schedule:
Friday, October 29, 2010

12PM Interviews-AHA Headquarters, 1501 Wyandotte, Kansas City, MO (official outfit or interview attire)
4PM Queen Orientation-AHA Headquarters (casual attire-no banners or crowns!)
7PM Queen Social hosted by National Hereford Queen (casual attire-no banners or crowns!)

Saturday, October 30, 2010

9AM National Hereford Women Breakfast, Governor’s Room, American Royal Complex (official outfit)
2:30PM Preview Ladies of the Royal Sale, American Royal Complex (official outfit)javascript:void(0)
4:00PM Ladies of the Royal Sale (official outfit)
6:30PM Boots and Brew Reception, Governor’s Room, American Royal Complex (official outfit)

Sunday, October 31, 2010

7AM Meet at American Royal Complex for photo and to set up awards (official outfit)
8AM Hereford Junior Show (official outfit)
Approximately 4PM National Queen Coronation, before the announcement of National Champion bull

Monday, November 1, 2010

9AM American Hereford Association Board Meeting, Hotel President (for newly crowned National Queen Only)

Miss Texas Horned Queen

2010-07-26T08:00:00.000-04:00

Check out her interviewed!

Miss Missouri

2010-07-25T06:25:00.004-04:00

What is your favorite memory as queen?

My favorite memory is Junior Nationals 2010 getting to meet all the other queens and meeting new people in the Hereford industry

What do you like most about being queen?

I love wearing the tiara and having people ask me questions about the Hereford Breed.

Any funny moments?

Riding to the Hereford Women's Breakfast with Mary and Miss. Diann, she made sure we got there more than on time!

Future aspirations?

I plan to get a degree in Ag Business and would like to own my own business and continue to develop my herd and live close to our family farm

Miss Georgia

2010-07-23T12:48:00.005-04:00

See the interview here:

Miss Oklahoma

2010-07-22T12:35:00.002-04:00

Miss Nebraska

2010-07-21T12:11:00.002-04:00

National Hereford Queen

2010-07-20T00:23:00.002-04:00

Name: Katie Killian
Home state: Texas

What you like most about being queen?

I like interacting with different people.

What is your favorite memory of being queen?

At Reno this past December, there was a group of little girls who followed me around. There was even a little girl that would not leave the show without sitting in the "white queen's" chair!

Any funny moments?

Last year at the queen competition in Kansas City my mom and I went to the grocery store near our hotel. I was in my full queen outfit. The man at the check out counter said to me, "You are pretty enough to be a real queen!". He thought I was dressed up for Halloween!

What are your future aspirations?

I am attending Texas A&M in the fall. After graduating with my degree in nutrition I plan to attend medical school.

Miss Washington

2010-07-19T11:59:00.002-04:00

Miss Illinois Horned

2010-07-18T00:17:00.001-04:00

Name: Mary Kline
State: Illinois

What do you like most about being queen?

I like meeting new people and having a good view of the show.

Best Memory as Queen

When I was princess a little girl helped me pass out ribbons...she was so cute!

What would you say to young girls to get them involved in the queen program?

It is great to be queen! You get to get dressed up and receive a crown. You also get to meet new people.

Future Aspirations

I would like to be involved in agriculture business.

Any funny moments as queen?

During opening ceremonies at the Junior National I had jeans under my skirt and I had to quick change at my tack area. In general I have had to change in the stalls several times this week, which has been interesting.

Miss Oregon

2010-07-16T00:09:00.001-04:00

Name: Amelia Stallings
State: Oregon

What do you like most about being queen?

I like watching the cattle classes, seeing the animals, and being up close to the show.

What is your favorite memory of being queen?

My Oregon state queen coronation.

What are your future aspirations?

I would like to be involved in the beef industry and continue showing.

Do you have any funny moments as queen?

The other day I was passing out ribbons and a junior got his show stick stuck in my banner and ended up stabbing me!

Miss Texas Polled

2010-07-14T06:00:00.001-04:00

Name: Keely Hamman
State: Texas

What do you like most about being queen?

I like watching the show and the kids. It also enjoyable being a mentor to the youth. Representing the great state of Texas is special to me as well.

Best Memory as Queen

2010 Junior National in Indianapolis, Indiana

What would you say to young girls to encourage them to get involved with the Hereford industry and queen program?

Girls dominate. It is a lot of fun being queen. When your involved in a breed, such as Herefords you gain another family.

What are your future aspirations?

I would like to attend Texas Tech of A&M to obtain a degree in Agriculture Communications.

Miss Indiana

2010-07-13T00:30:00.000-04:00

Meet the Queens

2010-07-11T23:52:00.004-04:00

Queen: Kimberly Katich
State: Ohio

What do you like most about being queen?

I really enjoy meeting new people throughout the United States.

Best memory as queen

The queen competition at Kansas City last October was my favorite queen memory.

What are your future aspirations?

I plan to attend Veterinary Technician school, own my own Hereford farm, raise a family and teach my children about Hereford cattle.

Junior National Recap

2010-07-11T00:31:00.003-04:00

Great week at the Junior National in Indy! There were many queens representing the Hereford breed at this exciting event! All of the queen did an excellent job passing out ribbons, holding awards in photos, and speaking to breeders! In the next few weeks there will be short video messages from the young women appearing here. Be sure to check back so you have the opportunity to learn a little bit more about the queens and the program.

National Hereford Women Breakfast

2010-07-07T06:00:00.003-04:00

Tuesday morning the queens attended the NHW breakfast which was held at the Farm Bureau building at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Each queen introduced herself to the audience and assisted in handing out the door prizes to guests.

Queen Orienation

2010-07-06T07:00:00.000-04:00

Monday afternoon was a lot of fun! All of the state queens came together for queen orientation which was held in the Blue Ribbon Pavilion at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Debbie Wiley did an excellent job of educating the young women about proper etiquette, social skills, and table manners! The queens will have the opportunity to demonstrate their new skills at the National Hereford Women Breakfast, held this morning at the Farm Bureau building at the fairgrounds.

Opening ceremonies also took place on Monday. The event began with the parade of state flags and juniors followed by Katie Killian, National Hereford Queen holding the American flag. Randy Owen entertained the crowd with a wonderful rendition of our National Anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance.

Finally in Indy!

2010-07-05T08:54:00.010-04:00

Today marks the first day of the 2010 Junior National Hereford Expo held in Indianapolis, Indiana. Queen orientation begins at p.m. in Meeting room #4 of the Blue Ribbon Pavilion. This year we are privileged to have Debbie Wiley as our guest speaker. Debbie lives in Carmel Indiana with her husband Mark and they have enjoyed raising 5 children and are now experiencing the joys of grandparenting, with grandbaby #7 being born on Mother’s Day.Debbie works at WTHR- Channel 13in Indianapolis, as the Executive Assistant to thePresident and General Manager and earned a degree from Butler University in Journalism and Communications. Debbie has worked for a professional modeling agency and the Indiana Cotillion Society as an instructor. She is a very experienced judge within many pageant systems including judging the Indiana State Fair Queen pageant in 2008, the Kentucky State Fair, the Mrs. Kentucky Pageant and within the Miss America Organization. Debbie won the titles of Mrs. Indiana America and Mrs. Indiana USA. Debbie has been seen as an on camera talent for WFYI Public Television during all of their fundraising campaigns. She is the Co-Executive Director of the Miss Central Indiana Pageant, a preliminary to the Miss Indiana Pageant and she currently serves as the President of the Local Directors Association.

Be on the look out this week for the official queen T-shirts which the young ladies will be wearing when they are not busy in the show ring handing out awards and prizes!

Junior National Hereford Expo

2010-06-14T15:07:00.005-04:00

I hope everyone is getting excited for the Junior National in Indy this summer! For all state queens preparing to attend, please remember to bring a pillow to sit on in the showring and a pen to keep track of the classes in the show program. If you have not already, please make sure to email Margeaux at margeauxfirestine@gmail to inform her that you will be attending the JNHE as a queen! Below is a schedule of events for the queen program at the Junior National:

Junior National Schedule of Events

Monday, July 5
2 p.m. Queen orientation, Meeting Room #4, Upstairs in Blue Ribbon Pavilion
Dress: casual

7 p.m. Opening ceremonies- be at Showring at 6:30PM to line up to walk in state flag
Dress: official dress, crown and banner required

Tuesday, July 6

7AM- Meet at Farm Bureau Building to be seated
7:30 a.m. National Hereford Women breakfast, Farm Bureau Building
Dress: Official dress, crown and banner required

Wednesday, July 7

8 a.m. Combined steer show followed by national showmanship contest
Showmanship contest, ring 1: senior, intermediate, and senior final
Ring 2: peewee and junior divisions
-Note: attendance not required, Katie will lead this event

Thursday, July 8

7AM- Meet at show ring to set up awards
8 a.m. Cow-calf pairs, bred-and-owned bulls, junior AI bulls, bred-and owned-heifers, junior AI heifers
Dress: official with crown and banner

Friday, July 9

7AM- Photo at Backdrop next to show arena
8 a.m. Begin owned heifer show
6 p.m. Awards dinner and ceremony
Dress: official with crown and banner

Saturday, July 10

7:30AM- Meet at showring to set up awards
8 a.m. Resume owned heifer show

You've Got Mail!!!

2010-03-27T09:26:00.004-04:00

State Hereford Queen Chairman's please check your email mailbox for information regarding the Junior National Hereford Expo! Please contact the National Hereford Queen chairman ASAP if you did not receiving this email! It is very important that we have an accurate count of how many queens will be present at the JNHE this summer in Indy.

I’ve Been Everywhere, Man.

2010-02-26T22:49:00.006-05:00

That seems to be my theme song these past couple months! In January and February, I attended Denver, Fort Worth – twice –, and San Angelo. Denver was, as always, so much fun. The weather was wonderfully mild – which anyone who has been to the National Western can agree is a blessing! I attended the Carload and Pen show for the first time, and it was a great experience. I attended the Fort Worth Junior Shows the next weekend. The last weekend in January, I had to fight a blizzard to get the Fort Worth Open Show! Biting my nails waiting for the roads to open was not fun, but the weekend most definitely was. Being from Texas, I’d like to brag and say the hospitality there was the very best – but the truth is, every show I have been to has been amazing. After those hectic weeks, were two weeks of catching up on homework and then I went to San Angelo. I love this stock show because of the close-knit atmosphere that the Hereford breeders have. Next up on the calendar is Houston; try to keep warm and have a wonderful beginning of spring!

-Katie Killian, National Hereford Queen

Attention State Queen Chairmen!!!

2010-02-13T19:35:00.006-05:00

Please complete the "State Queen Information" form by July 1, 2010. The form can be found here . The form can be sent to the National Hereford Queen Chairman, Margeaux Firestine at margeauxfirestine@gmail.com.

It is very important that you submit your queen information as soon as possible, so the committee can have an accurate count of who will be present at the queen orientation at the Junior National this summer!!!

Denver Bound!!!

2010-01-09T09:33:00.000-05:00

This coming week the Hereford royalty will be traveling to the mile high city for the National Western Stock Show. This will be our National Polled Hereford Queen, Kirbie Day's last event as queen. Kirbie has done an extraordinary job representing the Hereford industry this past year. Please make sure to wish her well when you see her next week! The schedule for the show will be as followed:
01/13/10 Nat'l Western Jr. Heifer Show Denver, Colorado
01/14/10 Nat'l Western Carload/Pen Bull & Pen Female Shows Denver, Colorado
01/15/10 Mile High Night Nat'l Hereford Sale Denver, Colorado
01/15/10 Nat'l Western Hereford Bull Show Denver, Colorado
01/16/10 Nat'l Western Hereford Female Show Denver, Colorado

Also the National Queen scrapbooks will be in the Hereford lounge. You can see photos from all of their travels on display!

Western Nugget

2009-12-26T07:46:00.000-05:00

I’m getting the hang of this blogging now, and I had a great time in Reno! The people were all wonderful and I enjoyed learning about all the things that make the Western Nugget such a unique show. The California royalty, Sadie, Caitlyn and Bailey, and the Oregon royalty, Ciera and Harli, were awesome help in the ring; they all represent their states so very well. I had the pleasure to be in the ring for the Junior and Open Shows, while I was out at the barns, I was asked to take pictures with two adorable little girls who wanted their picture taken with 'The White Queen'. I also attended the social and – the big highlight – the sale at the JA Nugget! The sale was truly something to experience . . . especially from the stage. The passion the western state breeders showed for the Western Nugget and the Hereford breed definitely made me proud to represent such a wonderful breed all over again!

-Katie Killian, National Hereford Queen

Reno time!

2009-12-03T08:43:00.000-05:00

Our lovely ladies are off to the Western Nugget in Reno, Nevada! This truly is a spectacular event. Below is a schedule of events:

2009 Show Schedule of Events
Thursday, December 3, 2009
9:00 am - Junior Show
Sponsored by American Hereford Assn. and Western States Hereford Assn.
Friday, December 4, 2009
9:00 am - Female Show (Show Order: Polled Females followed by Horned Females)
(following show) Social Hour – Sale cattle on display.
6:30 pm - Cocktail Party, Silent Auction & Semen Auction – Nugget Hotel
Saturday, December 5, 2009
9:00 am - Bull Show (Show Order: Horned Bulls followed by Polled Bulls)
4:00 pm - Nugget Hereford Sale, John Ascuaga’s Nugget Celebrity Showroom

Stay tuned for photos and feedback from our Hereford Royalty's travels to the southwest!

Details, Details!

2009-12-03T00:26:00.000-05:00

As previously described in past blogs, there was a change to the National Queen title this year. Due to name change to National Hereford Queen, a new banner was made by Sandy Meyer of Classic Leather Designs. To your left, you will find detailed photos of the banner.
The banner is made of Hereford hide and white leather. On the front of the banner, the words "National Hereford Queen" are embroidered in red to a section of white leather. Red and white crystals line this section. On the top portion, which sits on the right shoulder, there are two Hereford heads, one polled and one horned. The heads were hand tooled, then painted. You can also observe the rosette above the heads. Every National Queen banner, since the beginning of the program in 1974, has had a similar rosette. Keeping with tradition, it was included on the current banner as well.
The back of the banner has Hereford hide in a stripe in the middle. On top of the hide, is hand cut white leather letters, which read "Hereford Queen". You may ask why have the title on the back of the banner as well. The answer is quite simple, we are proud of the industry and the breed that our queen represents. We want to display her commodity clearly and proudly. Also, how many times have you been in a large crowd and are only able to see the back of a person. If you were fortunate enough to be standing behind one of our beautiful queens, dressed in white from head to toe with an ornate crystal crown on their head, you may be perplexed on their purpose. Having their title on the back clears any confusion.
*Fun Fact: Did you know that every queen who wears the National Queen banner signs their name in the inside?*
Our queen is given a beautiful round crown to wear and then have as a keepsake each year. To protect this delicate piece, the National Hereford Women Queen program provides her with a crown box. This year, due to generous donations by Beacon Hill Ranch and the Phelps/Mehaffey families, the program purchased a crown box from Classic Leather Designs. It truly is a piece of artwork.On the top it states: 2010 National Hereford Queen. There are decorative studs surrounding the top and bottom of the box. On either side of the handles are rosettes with red crystals. The sides of the box are made of Hereford hide. The inside of the box is lined with brown velvet. It is a stunning piece!

A day in Louisville

2009-12-01T20:56:00.000-05:00

First, a big Thank You is due . . . to the whole Hereford industry. You all have made my first show as National Queen so wonderful. I loved Louisville! Growing up in the Texas Panhandle, I haven’t seen much of the fall season, and I enjoyed getting to see the changing colors there. The show was an awesome experience; the Kentucky Hereford Breeders definitely have something to be proud of. I went home full of derby pie and ready for Reno!

-Katie Killian, National Hereford Queen

Thank you, Thank you!

2009-11-11T07:24:00.000-05:00

Our queen program is an excellent opportunity for young women of our industry. It allows them to improve their communication skills as well as knowledge of the Hereford and beef cattle industries. This program could not be what it is today with out our sponsors. I would like to thank you for donating to our program. Below is a list of the current queen program donors:

Mohican Farms-Mr. and Mrs. Conrad Stitzlein
Andy and Betsy Beck
Frank Thomas
McKown Polled Herefords
Lynn and Stephen Sumner
Truman and Starr Whaley
Georgia Poll-Ettes
Kevin and Barbara Gregory
Nelson Land and Cattle Co
National Cattle Services
Mehaffey/Phelps Family
Sandy Meyer-Classic Leather Designs
Paula Tracy
Splitt Butte Ranch
MAP Farm
Fulton Bank Atten: Agriculture Department
Beacon Hill Ranch-Gebhart Family

I would also like to thank the National Hereford Women for all of their support and dedication to the program. Your commitment is truly valued.

A few firsts

2009-11-07T18:09:00.000-05:00

On Sunday, November 1, 2009 at the conclusion of the Hereford bull show our first National Hereford Queen was crowned. Due to the change in our queen's title there was a new banner made and donated by Sandy Meyer of Classic Leather Designs. The new banner is made of a Hereford hide and white leather with red and white grommets. The retired National Polled Hereford Queen banner will be placed in the Gammon Barn in Iowa at the conclusion of our current queen, Kirbie Day's reign after Denver. Beacon Hill Ranch and the Mehaffey/Phelps family donated the crown box which was hand tooled by Classic Leather Designs. The crown was donated by the Georgia Poll-Ettes and Whaley Herefords. Miss Congeniality and the national queen will both receive a pair of boots of their choice donated by Double H Boot Company.

All of our state queens did an excellent job handing out awards during the junior and open show. The results of the competition were as followed: Miss Congeniality and 2nd Runner-Up, Kara Bielema from Michigan, 1st Runner-Up, Courtney Tribble from Washington, and the new queen is Katie Killian from Texas.

Kirbie Day, the 2009 National Polled Hereford Queen will continue her reign through the National Western Stock Show in Denver, Co. Katie and Kirbie will both be attending the North American Livestock Expo in Louisville, KY, Western Nugget in Reno, NV and the National Western.

Kansas City Queen Orienation Fun!

2009-11-06T10:09:00.001-05:00

This year our queen committee decided to have a few fun activities for our queens to participate in before the competition. That way the girls could get to know each other and have the opportunity to see a little bit of Kansas City as well. Friday morning the queens picked up welcome packages from the Hotel President lobby which contained donations from Seltzers's Bologna, M&M Mars, Brooks Brothers and Morgan Allyse Jewelry Designs. The girls also received pink queen t-shirts donated by Fulton Bank. On Friday afternoon all of the queens, parents and the committee met in the Hilton President lobby for cookies, cocoa, and socializing. The parade of pink and green then made an appearance at Lucky Strikes Bowling alley on Baltimore Ave in Kansas City. The staff at Lucky Strikes were awesome and everyone showed off their impressive bowling skills!

Later that evening the queens attended the CBR rodeo held at the American Royal. Jim McNair, CEO of the American Royal graciously donated the tickets. The queens had fabulous seats and had a great time watching some of the top rodeo competitors in the nation as well as socializing with the fans! During the show they were introduced to the audience. Local news channels as well as the cable television channel featuring the rodeo spotlighted the queens. The biggest surprise of the evening was the calf scramble. Hundreds of 4-H-ers competed for their new steer calves. It was an amazing site!

And so it begins...

2009-11-05T10:19:00.000-05:00

Hello and welcome. I believe that a great introduction is key to any situation. My name is Margeaux and I am currently the chairman for the National Hereford Women's National Hereford Queen program. I was asked to start this blog in response to increased interest in this program and the need to provide accurate up to date information. I will update frequently with events in our program. Our National Hereford Queen, Katie Killian will also provide us with some comments. Please stay tuned for more info!