74th Annual Speech Contest

General Information
This popular event is held in the fall of each year and is available to members and non-members. Students in grades 4-12 compete in their respective category at District contests held around the state. First and second place winners in each of the categories advance to the State Speech Contest held in Stillwater on the campus of Oklahoma State University.

While competing in the contest, the top three category winners in each of the four divisions receive awards and special recognition. First, second and third place state contest winners receive awards and cash scholarships.

All District Contest registrations will begin at 4 p.m. and the contest briefing will begin at 4:30 p.m. Judges and speakers will then disperse to assigned classrooms for competition. Immediately following competition, a meal will be served. Awards, special recognition and final comments will conclude the contest.

 

Dates & Locations
November 1st
Northeast
Lone Star School, Sapulpa
November 6th
Southeast
EOSC, Wilburton
November 8th
Southwest
Cache 5th and 6th Grade Building
November 13th
Northwest
Autry Tech Center, Enid
November 15th
Central
Tecumseh High School
December 1st
State Finals
Oklahoma State University, Classroom Building Room 313, Stillwater

Divisions
Novice Division
Students in grades 4, 5 and 6 May only compete in the AFR/OFU category
Time Limit: 2-4 minutes
Junior Division
Students in grades 7 and 8
Time Limit: 4-6 minutes
Intermediate Division
Students in grades 9 and 10
Time Limit: 4-6 minutes
Senior Division
Students in grades 11 and 12
Time Limit: 4-6 minutes
Categories
AMERICAN FARMERS & RANCHERS/OKLAHOMA FARMERS UNION

Participants may speak on the history or current activities of American Farmers & Ranchers/Oklahoma Farmers Union, and its fight to support agriculture and rural families through legislation, cooperation and educational opportunities.

SCIENCE & NATURAL RESOURCES

Participants may choose any current issues such as natural resource conservation, forestry, aquaculture, energy, environment, agronomy, biotechnology, genetics, engineering, farm safety, food production or any animal science related topic.

AGRIBUSINESS

Participants may choose any current issue that deals with any topic such as cooperatives, value- added products, sales, service, traditional/non-traditional entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, commodities, advertising, economic development, etc.

AG ADVOCACY & POLICY

Participants may speak on laws, regulations or legislation for any current agricultural issue. Participants may also choose any topic that deals with consumer awareness, literacy and advocacy programs, social media, food security, trade, climate change, animal rights/animal welfare, etc.

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AFR Announces 2018-19 Youth Advisory Council

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Five outstanding Oklahoma high school students have been selected by their peers to serve on the 2018-19 AFR Youth Advisory Council. The selection was made July 27 following the AFR Leadership Summit senior session.

The Council consists of high school juniors and seniors representing AFR youth from across the state. Members of the new Council are: Seth Jackson, Bethel; Elizabeth Schneider, Seiling; Kabrin Martin, Harrah; Alison Moore, Hammon and Peyton Burns, Kingfisher.

Council members participate in agriculture-based service projects throughout the year and assist in planning many AFR Youth Program activities. They also facilitate AFR events and act as mentors for younger Oklahoma youth.

“AFR is proud to invest in the future of Oklahoma through these young people,” said Terry Detrick, AFR president. “Our leadership summit and the AFR Youth Advisory Council demonstrate that investment across Oklahoma.”

The selection process includes a written application, an interview conducted by a panel of AFR members and leadership professionals and a speech given in front of the candidates’ peers. In addition to interview and application scores, a vote is cast by students attending Summit, allowing all attendees to be involved in the selection process.

AFR Leadership Summit develops leadership skills in junior high and high school youth that will prepare them for future educational and professional experiences. Attendees learn such skills as setting and achieving short- and long-term goals and working in teams. They also learn the value of personal responsibility, respect for their peers and many other positive attributes.

“The AFR Leadership Summit is an excellent way for the youth of Oklahoma to learn skills that will benefit them in their futures,” said Micaela Danker, AFR/OFU youth development coordinator.

AFR provides Oklahoma youth many opportunities to develop into the leaders of tomorrow. Leadership Summit is just one of several exciting AFR Youth Program traditions. The organization also hosts a poster contest, an agricultural achievement contest, fall speech contests, statewide scholarships, livestock handling and skills contests, livestock judging and grading competitions and many other leadership opportunities.

For more information on the Summit or other AFR youth opportunities, contact AFR Youth Development Coordinator Micaela Danker at (405) 218-5561, or mdanker@afrmic.com.

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The council consists of high school juniors and seniors representing AFR youth from across the state. Council members participate in agriculture-based service projects throughout the year and assist in planning many AFR youth program activities. They also facilitate AFR events and act as mentors for younger Oklahoma youth.

 

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Oklahoma Students Attend AFR Leadership Summit, July 25-28

A record number of 159 students, grades 10-12, attended the senior session of the AFR Leadership Summit, July 25-28 at the Heartland Conference Center in Oklahoma City.

Summit sessions focused on leadership and personal development through team building exercises and personal reflection.

The theme this year was “Spark” which translated to encourage participants to become more involved, be more connected and to make changes in our daily lives that leave lasting legacies, said Micaela Danker, AFR/OFU youth development coordinator.

“The students had the opportunity to learn, grow and develop into leaders who are ready to take change back to their schools,” Danker said.

Summit participants engaged in a robust discussion of state issues during a policy session lead by Steve Thompson, AFR/OFU director of governmental relations. The students had the opportunity to research and debate issues such as teacher pay, animal welfare and four-day school weeks.

One of several team-building exercises included a service project where participants were broken into 16 groups. Each group was then given the task of advocating for their state, national or global level non-profit. At the conclusion of the service project, a $1,000 donation was made to Special Olympics Oklahoma, a sports training and competition program for persons with intellectual disabilities.

“This is a great opportunity for our participants to learn about different needs around the world and right here in Oklahoma,” Danker said.

The history of AFR is rich with culture and growth which began with Oklahoma Farmers Union. For more than 40 years the farm organization has sponsored a Leadership Summit for the state’s top young leaders. Many of the students have taken what they have learned back to their communities and served in greater leadership roles at the local and state levels.

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Oklahoma Students Attend AFR Leadership Summit, July 25-28

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A record number of 159 students, grades 10-12, attended the senior session of the AFR Leadership Summit, July 25-28 at the Heartland Conference Center in Oklahoma City.

Summit sessions focused on leadership and personal development through team building exercises and personal reflection.

The theme this year was “Spark” which translated to encourage participants to become more involved, be more connected and to make changes in our daily lives that leave lasting legacies, said Micaela Danker, AFR/OFU youth development coordinator.

“The students had the opportunity to learn, grow and develop into leaders who are ready to take change back to their schools,” Danker said.

Summit participants engaged in a robust discussion of state issues during a policy session lead by Steve Thompson, AFR/OFU director of governmental relations.  The students had the opportunity to research and debate issues such as teacher pay, animal welfare and four-day school weeks.

One of several team-building exercises included a service project where participants were broken into 16 groups. Each group was then given the task of advocating for their state, national or global level non-profit. At the conclusion of the service project, a $1,000 donation was made to Special Olympics Oklahoma, a sports training and competition program for persons with intellectual disabilities.

“This is a great opportunity for our participants to learn about different needs around the world and right here in Oklahoma,” Danker said.

The history of AFR is rich with culture and growth which began with Oklahoma Farmers Union.  For more than 40 years the farm organization has sponsored a Leadership Summit for the state’s top young leaders. Many of the students have taken what they have learned back to their communities and served in greater leadership roles at the local and state levels.

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Oklahoma Youth Attend AFR Leadership Summit Teen Session

Approximately 58 students, grades 7-9, attended the teen session of the 2018 AFR Leadership Summit, July 22-24 at the Heartland Conference Center in Oklahoma City.

Summit sessions focus on leadership development and improving the lives of others through team-building exercises and personal reflection. These lessons can be applied now or later on as they begin their professional careers.

One of several team-building exercises included a service project where participants constructed 35 blankets for Project Linus. According to their website, the mission of Project Linus is to provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new, handmade blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer “blanketeers.” Since 1995 Project Linus has distributed over 7,020,362 blankets to children nationwide and providing them with a sense of security.

“This is a great opportunity for our participants to learn key leadership skills to apply in their personal lives and understand the importance of giving back to their charity of choice,” said Micaela Danker, AFR/OFU youth development coordinator. “We hope the skills they learn here will help them feel more confident at a speech contest this fall, make them stand out as on officer of a collegiate group or land their dream job down the road.”

The history of AFR is rich with culture and growth and began with Oklahoma Farmers Union. For more than 40 years the farm organization has sponsored a leadership summit for the state’s top young leaders. Many of the participants have taken what they have learned at the summit back to their communities and served in greater leadership roles at the local and state levels.

For more information on how you can become involved with Project Linus, go to http://www.projectlinus.org/volunteer/.

 

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AFR Seeks Input During Statewide August Meetings

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AFR members will have the opportunity to discuss key rural and agriculture issues during a series of informal barbecues scheduled for Aug. 7-20 in various locations across Oklahoma.

“We want to use this informal, relaxed atmosphere to learn the critical issues on the minds of Oklahoma farmers and ranchers,” AFR President Terry Detrick, said.

The current agriculture economy, the farm bill, mid-term elections and international trade are among the issues expected to gain attention during the meetings.

“We’ll talk about all of these issues,” Detrick said, “and I am sure the weather will also be a frequent topic, as it is every time you get farmers and ranchers together.”

Detrick added, the issues discussed will lead to new and improved policies for the state’s oldest farm organization.

“The thoughts and ideas surfaced at these barbecues will be used by our members to formulate policies to be voted on at our annual convention in February,” Detrick said.  “These policies are important as they will guide our organization throughout the coming year.”

The meetings, two each day, will start promptly with the meal followed by discussions. There will also be staff introductions followed by brief comments. The locations and starting times are:

Tuesday, Aug. 7

  • Lunch in Muskogee at 12 p.m., Northeastern State University, Synar Room 147.
  • Dinner in Stillwater at 6 p.m., Stillwater Community Center, 315 W. 8th Street.

Thursday, Aug. 9

  • Lunch in Atoka at 12 p.m., Kiamichi Technology Center, 1301 W. Liberty Rd.
  • Dinner in Tecumseh, Crossing Hearts Ranch, 22214 Skagg City Rd.

Thursday, Aug. 16

  • Lunch in Watonga at 12 p.m., American Legion Post 125, 306 S. Noble Ave.
  • Dinner in Gate at 6 p.m., Gate Community Center, 210 West 4th.

Monday, Aug. 20

  • Lunch in Hobart at 12 p.m., Western Technology Center, 1000 S. Bailey Street.
  • Dinner in Duncan at 6 p.m., Red River Technology Center, 3300 W. Bois D’Arc.

 

For more information or to RSVP, please contact Bethany Andrews, bandrews@afrmic.com (405) 218-5531.

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AFR to Host Leadership Summit for Oklahoma Youth July 22-28

Several hundred Oklahoma students will spend part of their summer learning how to improve lives by becoming community leaders when they attend the annual AFR Leadership Summit. Held at the Heartland Conference Center near Oklahoma City, the summit is divided into two sessions:  teen session for students entering grades 7-9 is July 22-24; the senior session for students entering grades 10-12, runs July 25-28.

Summit sessions focus on leadership development and improving the lives of others through team-building exercises. Traditionally, participants have selected service projects as beneficiaries of the youth’s enthusiasm and energy.

“This is a great opportunity for these young people to learn leadership skills as well as learn something about themselves in the process,” said Micaela Danker, AFR/OFU youth development coordinator. “I think it is incredible these kids care enough to spend part of their summer helping others,” Danker said.

The history of AFR is rich with culture and growth which began with Oklahoma Farmers Union. For more than 40 years the farm organization has sponsored a Leadership Summit for the state’s top young leaders. Many of the students have taken what they have learned back to their communities and served in greater leadership roles at the local and state levels.

At the conclusion of the senior session, students select the next AFR Youth Advisory Council from among their peers. The youth advisory council consists of five students who will serve in a leadership role advising the organization during the coming year.

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PHOTO CAPTION: Facilitator Marty Jones leads students in the 2017 teen session.

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AFR Golf Tournament Raises Funds for Special Needs Livestock Show

A record number of supporters, including more than 100 golfers participated in the third annual AFR golf tournament, June 21, at the FireLake Golf Course in Shawnee, Okla. All proceeds from the tournament will support the Gold Star Classic-AFR special needs livestock show.

“We are excited to raise funds to give special needs students an opportunity to have a life-enriching experience,” said Terry Detrick, President of the Farmers Union Foundation, the major supporter of the event. “Our golf events have always been focused on helping improve lives of others and we believe this event meets that goal.”

The Gold Star Classic-AFR special needs livestock show, scheduled for Aug. 30 at the Grady County Fairgrounds, is a youth livestock show created for Oklahoma students with special needs. These students will have the opportunity to exhibit and interact with sheep, goats and pigs.  Sponsors of this year’s golf tournament will also be recognized as a sponsor of the Gold Star Classic-AFR special needs livestock show.

Individual and team winners include:

  • Matt Schieffer, longest drive contest.
  • Charlie Rapp, closest to the pin contest.
  • First place team, Blain County AFR, Watonga.
  • Second place team, Coweta Insurance, Coweta.
  • Third place team, Simons Catch, Elk City.
  • Brandon Williamson, Elk City, won the AFR Pelican cooler door prize.

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AFR Golf Tournament set for June 21 in Shawnee, Okla.

The third annual AFR golf tournament is scheduled for Thursday, June 21 at the FireLake Golf

Course in Shawnee, Okla., on behalf of the Farmers Union Foundation, Inc.

All proceeds of the tournament will support the inaugural Gold Star Classic-AFR Special Needs Livestock Show set for Thursday, August 30 at the Grady County Fairgrounds, Chickasha, Okla.

“We are excited to raise funds to provide special needs students with this unique opportunity

outside of the classroom,” said Terry Detrick, President of the Farmers Union Foundation.   “Our golf tournaments have always focused on helping improve lives and we believe this event

meets that goal.”

The Gold Star Classic is a youth livestock show created for Oklahoma students with special needs. These students will have the opportunity to exhibit and interact with sheep, goats and pigs. Sponsors of this year’s golf tournament will also be recognized as a sponsor of the Gold Star Classic.

The AFR Golf Tournament will feature exciting hole-in-one contests and lunch will be provided

to all players. To sign up, please contact Lin at 405-218-5590. The registration deadline is Wednesday, June 13.

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2018 Ag Achievement Contest at OYE

Objectives
To recognize Oklahoma youth who have an interest in livestock, excel in showmanship skills and have knowledge of the livestock industry to include production, management, processing and end product utilization.

To stimulate excellence and a quest for knowledge that will result in the development of leadership skills applicable to the livestock industry.

Eligibility
Competition will be limited to 4-H & FFA members exhibiting breeding or market beef, sheep, goat or swine at the 2018 Oklahoma Youth Expo and who are classified as high school juniors or seniors.

Entry
Pre-entry forms are available at American Farmers & Ranchers, the Oklahoma Youth Expo, Agricultural Education Teachers and OSU County Extension Offices. Entries must be submitted to AFR Youth Development Coordinator by March 9, 2018. If an applicant is exhibiting animals in more than one species, then a choice of one species must be indicated on the entry form.

Schedule
Friday, March 9th
Pre-entry forms due to State AFR Office

Monday, March 12th
Written Test (Barn 3 Sales Pavilion) 8 a.m. – Noon

AFR Swine Showmanship (Barn 6 Arena) Immediately following OYE Swine Showmanship

AFR Sheep Showmanship (Super Barn Arena) Immediately following OYE Sheep Showmanship

Tuesday, March 13th
AFR Cattle Showmanship (State Fair Arena) Immediately following OYE Cattle Showmanship

Wednesday, March 14th
AFR Goat Showmanship (Super Barn Arena) Immediately following OYE Goat Showmanship

Top Ten posted 3:00 p.m.

Thursday, March 15th
Top Ten Interviews (Main Show Office) 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Awards Presentation (State Fair Arena) 5:30 p.m.

Evaluation
Written Exam (40%)
All participants will take a written exam:
8 a.m. – Noon Monday, March 12 – Barn 3 Sales Pavilion
Questions will pertain to all phases of the livestock industry to include current events.
CIMC Animal Science Curriculum – 3rd Edition and CIMC Introduction to Agriscience will be used in selecting test questions. All questions will be age appropriate for youth in the range of 16-19 years old.
Showmanship (20%)
Each participant will be evaluated on showmanship ability in one class. Each participant must show an animal they have entered in OYE. No substitute animals will be allowed. The AFR Showmanship contest will begin at the conclusion of the OYE Showmanship contest for each species.
Swine Showmanship – Barn 6 Arena – Monday, March 12
Sheep Showmanship – Super Barn Arena – Monday, March 12
Cattle Showmanship – State Fair Arena – Tuesday, March 13
Goat Showmanship – Super Barn Arena – Wednesday, March 14
Interview (40%)
Interviews will be held on Thursday, March 15. Official dress of the students’ appropriate organization must be worn.
OFFICIAL DRESS IS REQUIRED!!
The ten youth with the highest total scores combining points from showmanship evaluation and the written exam will be interviewed by a panel of individuals representing various segments of the livestock industry.
Questions will pertain to the applicant’s livestock project and the agriculture industry.
Posted Scores
A list of the top 10 participants (Combining Written Exam Totals & Showmanship Scores) will be posted on the American Farmers & Ranchers Youth Program Facebook page, the AFR booth in Barn 3 and outside the Main Show Office by 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 14, 2018.

Awards
Each of the top ten finalists will receive cash awards:

1st – $1,0002nd – $9003rd – $8004th – $6005th – $5006th – $3507th – $2508th – $2009th – $20010th – $200

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