63
TonyaMeier 100 head and nearly 2,000 total entries (one calf per exhibitor) - it was no little undertaking. Yet, within a few months’ time, Shane and Tonya executed what may go down in history as one of the most fun, big-time, smoothest run cattle shows. They did not leave one stone unturned; from the volunteers and decorations, to fundraising and organizing a sale where they raised thousands of dollars for the youth of Texas! All with a crew of less than 25 people!
Time and time again, Shane and Tonya have made the youth of our industry a priority in their lives. Everything they do they give 100%. They describe walking away from various shows and events over the years with the sense of, “How can we improve that?” They would take notes on things that were done well and things that could be done better. It is so important for them to use livestock to help raise kids and to do everything with the kids in mind. Anyone who has attended
a BOC event or The Patriot will attest to the atmosphere of positivity, inspiration and motivation. While at the end of the day, everyone strives for the Champion slap, Shane and Tonya tailor their shows to be highly interactive, educational and an outlet for people to spend time together and form relationships. A great example of this is the BOC’s Panel of the Pros – an opportunity for kids at the show to talk to industry leaders, such as Brandon Horn and Clint Petzold. Not only does
this provide knowledge, but it also breaks the ice for them to reach out and communicate with those leaders throughout the event and beyond. One word of advice Tonya shared that she strives to live by is, “People will forget what you say to them, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” What she and Shane do day-in and day-out is a prime example of living one’s life in a way that betters those around them. •
Powered by FlippingBook