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2008 August Issue
It’s all about the people
by Jennifer Shike
It’s a good thing that we are surrounded by great people in the purebred swine industry. No matter how hard times get, the one advantage we have over other associations and businesses is that we have each other. And right now, that means a lot.
As I walked out of the barn in Louisville, Ky., after another great National Junior Summer Spectacular (NJSS), I couldn’t help but reflect on the people who made the event happen. No matter how hard we work, our staff can’t simply pull off an event of this magnitude without many great volunteers and supporters behind us.
Behind the scenes. It’s hard to understand exactly how many details go into planning a show like the NJSS until you’ve been in the trenches. Each year, we initiate a new group of young people before the first entries arrive. On Sunday night before the show, the NJSA Board of Directors and NJSA board candidates showed up early to help set up the show. From hanging pen cards and signs to setting up reasons rooms and the black drapes behind our booths, these young people worked hard Monday and Tuesday to make our event possible. This year, our team worked incredibly well together from Monday morning to Saturday afternoon.
A special thanks to all of the parents, NJSA members and other supporters who volunteered their time to help with a contest or work a shift in the Kids Korner, the silent auction and the NJSA booth. It is so rewarding to work with people who care about providing opportunities for our members. I can’t say thanks enough for the time and money that you invest into our program with your service at the NJSS.
In the spotlight. Our judges did a fantastic job of sorting quality showmen and superior gilts during the NJSS. As Dave Kilmer of Monticello, Ind., shared a few words of wisdom before he selected Champion Yorkshire Gilt, he apologized for getting a little sentimental. I’m not sure how you can stand in his shoes and not be a little sentimental. It was an amazing sight to see the excitement and passion in the eyes of our youth.
It’s true – we are going through some scary times in the swine industry and the economy in general. But when you look at the kids at our events, you see their hope and their enthusiasm, and it makes you keep going. Because when it’s all said and done, those kids are what truly matters. It always goes back to the people.
Setting the foundation. This year we gave away four new scholarships at the NJSS. As these scholarship providers came forward to present their awards, I was reminded of the generosity and kindness that so many in our industry possess. Because of our sponsors, we are able to help more youth and provide greater opportunities for their futures.
It was amazing to walk around the barn and see all of the sponsor and college booths. I heard many people comment on the variety of sponsors and colleges at the show – and how much they enjoy having them be a part of our event. They truly add to the atmosphere of our show and make it more fun for all involved.
As we celebrated 10 years of the NJSS this summer, I was reminded of the many people who have made this show what it is today. It was a big week for our NSR staff, and I want to thank each of them again for their role in making the NJSS a success.
While we were in Louisville, one of our close friends lost his mother to a battle with cancer. At her funeral the next week, the pastor shared one of his last conversations with her in which she said, “Life is a blip.”
She hit the nail on the head. Life is but a blip on the radar screen. It goes by quickly, so make the most of each moment and take time to appreciate the people around you.
I know I’ve said it before, but I want to say it again. Thanks for being a part of the purebred swine industry and for your support of our youth program. I sincerely believe this is one of the greatest purebred associations assembled, and it is an honor to work for you. Make today count by remembering that it always goes back to the people.
