Hempstead County youth inducted into the Purple Circle Club

BENTON — Recently, The Purple Circle Club inducted 167 students, representing more than 225 awards, at a celebration in Benton. The Purple Circle Club started in 1953 to recognize youth exhibitors achieving championship honors with livestock projects at the Arkansas State Fair. From Hempstead County, Ms. Paisley Reed was inducted into the 72^nd class of The Purple Circle Club. Paisley, a 4^th grader at Spring Hill Elementary, showed her Brahman heifer. She is daughter of Sarai Reed and Austin Reed, and the granddaughter of Jeff & Renay May and Dale & Teresa Reed.

Arkansas Power and Light Company, now known as Entergy Arkansas, sponsored the event for 54 years until Arkansas Farm Bureau (ArFB) took over the lead role coordinating the program in 2005. There were 38 inductees in the inaugural Purple Circle Club class of 1953.

“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, ArFB President. “We’re grateful for the chance to champion their journey in the agriculture industry.”

Students recognized at the ceremony competed in these categories: Breeding Cattle, Commercial Steers/Heifers, Dairy Cattle, Showmanship, Goats, Lambs, Sheep, Rabbits, Poultry and Swine.