March 5, 2018
For More Information Contact:
Amber Wahlgren at 816-383-5100 or awahlgren@angus.org
Blake Pillars Earns Junior Bronze and Silver Awards
Blake Pillars, Martin, Mich., has earned the National Junior Angus Association’s (NJAA) Bronze and Silver awards, according to Jaclyn Upperman, education and events director of the American Angus Association® in Saint Joseph, Mo.
The 13-year-old son of Rodney and Lori Pillars attends Martin Middle School and is a member of the NJAA and the Michigan Junior Angus Association where he has served as director and treasurer.
He has participated in state and national shows and showmanship contests. At the National Junior Angus Show (NJAS), Blake participated in the photography, livestock judging, team fitting, quiz bowl, and creative writing contests. He also participated in the All-American Certified Angus Beef® Cook-Off.
The Bronze and Silver awards are the first two levels of the NJAA Recognition Program that began in 1972. Junior Angus breeders must apply for the awards, then meet point requirements in many areas of participation before receiving the honors. Applicants are evaluated in areas of junior Angus association activities and leadership, participation in showmanship, contests and shows, using performance testing to improve their herd and their progress in producing and merchandising Angus cattle.
The NJAA promotes the involvement of young people in raising Angus cattle, while also providing leadership and self-development opportunities for the nearly 6,000 active members nationwide.
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