Young exhibitors from Baxter and Izard counties earned top honors and Purple Circle Club recognition at recent Arkansas livestock and poultry competitions, highlighting the strength of local 4-H and FFA programs.
Baxter County students excelled in poultry and dairy goat divisions. Jayden Dutcher earned Champion Nigerian Dwarf Senior Doe, Hannah Dooley claimed Reserve Grand Champion Pen of Broilers, and Claire Walker took Reserve Grand Champion Poultry Chain.
Izard County shined in the cattle divisions, with Hazel Burns winning Champion Red Angus Bull, Jacee Morehead earning Champion Shorthorn Bull, Akynna Nielsen taking Champion Shorthorn Plus Bull, and Aribella Walters capturing Champion Star Five Bull.
These awards were part of the Purple Circle Club, which honors youth who achieve championship livestock projects at the Arkansas State Fair. At a celebration in Benton, 167 students representing more than 225 awards were inducted. The club was established in 1953 to recognize the dedication and success of young agricultural exhibitors.
“Every year, these students remind us true success isn’t just earned in the show ring, but it’s rooted in character, perseverance and the daily commitment of raising livestock,” said Dan Wright, Arkansas Farm Bureau President. Students recognized competed in Breeding Cattle, Commercial Steers and Heifers, Dairy Cattle, Showmanship, Goats, Lambs, Sheep, Rabbits, Poultry, and Swine.
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