By Martha Jackson

Congratulations to the Morgan County 2023 livestock judging state champions, the Alabama state champion livestock judging team. We are incredibly proud of their achievement and wish them the best as they represent us at the National 4H Judging Contest in Louisville this November. 

The top team overall, securing first place, consists of the talented individuals Ellie Blackwood, Callie Rae Childers, Landon Hornbuckle and Blake Bennett. They have shown exceptional skills and dedication in their livestock judging endeavors. 

We would also like to acknowledge the outstanding performances of the top individuals overall. Ellie Blackwood secured the first place, followed by Blake Bennett in third and Landon Hornbuckle in sixth. 

The swine team also showcased their excellence, securing first place, with Blake Bennett taking first place and Ellie Blackwood coming in second place as the top swine individuals. 

In the beef team category, Ellie Blackwood demonstrated her exceptional abilities, securing first place.  

The goat team also displayed remarkable talent, securing first place, with Ellie Blackwood in third place and Landon Hornbuckle in fourth place.  

Coaches Brett Crow, Morgan County Extension CEC, and Meredith Glasscock, A.P. Brewer Ag Teacher, have dedicated their time, provided encouragement, and conducted rigorous practices to hone the skills of these youth. 

Sponsors of the Star-Spangled Day in Falkville include Pepsi, Coca Cola, Victory Fellowship, Falkville First Baptist, No Fences Cowboy Church and Fairview the Grace Place. A big ‘Thank you’ for their generous donations to the Star Spangled Day event in the Town of Falkville. Their contributions have helped create a fun-filled and free family event that is greatly appreciated by our community. 

Special thanks go out to Mr. Vaughn Burden for his performance of “God Bless the USA” and the National Anthem, adding a patriotic touch to the event. We would also like to express our gratitude to the Falkville VFW for providing hotdogs for the occasion. 

In Falkville High School news, we would like to inform all 6th-grade students and new students that the orientation will be held Aug. 6 at 2 p.m. Student schedule information will be made available at a later time, ensuring a smooth transition for all.