Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/1249431
Loan Officer and Hiwasse Branch Manager for the Bank of Gravette. "The Livestock Auction allows youth a reward for their time, dedication, and hard work invested in their project. They can also recoup some of the costs and pay off their bank loan, if they have one." "One of the benefits of the Benton County Fair is that our youth can show more than one animal even though they can sell only one animal," said Rickie Stark, Vice President of Business Development for the Bank of Gravette. "Often times at other fairs, they have to place high in their class to even be included in the sale." Stark pointed out that we are fortunate in Northwest Arkansas to be home to so many large companies like Wal-Mart, Crossland, Built-Well Construction, etc. who can lend their support to our youth in agriculture, as well as to the Benton County Fair itself, but there is the potential for even more support. "In my past experience in areas like Houston, Texas, the Buyers Committees host parties and events throughout the year to wine and dine buyers to grow support for the Livestock Auction," Stark continued. "We have great supporters, but there are many other large businesses that we hope will join our list of supporters to help the kids and the fair that's such an important part of our culture and community. I think we have untapped potential for monetary support in NWA that could greatly benefit our youth in agriculture!" Many volunteers help with the auction by serving as auctioneers, ring men, bookkeepers and various other jobs. The Northwest Arkansas Cattlewomen host a "Buyers Dinner" the evening of the sale that's paid for by the exhibitors, according to Debbie Strickland, Vice President of Marketing at Bank of Gravette. The Bank of Gravette plays a vital role in the Benton County Fair Junior Livestock Auction and have been long-time buyers and supporters of the Fair. In 2019, the Benton County Fair Junior Livestock Auction raised more than $167,000 for 139 youth, thanks to the generous donations of community buyers and supporters. The event is expected to take place at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, August 8, 2020. 2020 Benton County Fair 105