The American Farmers and Ranchers (AFR) Cooperative is an organization that supports our state’s rural population and agricultural industry. Beginning with the membership services organization Oklahoma Farmers Union in 1905, AFR’s history is rich with culture. The AFR Youth Program holds activities across the state that encourage the youth of Oklahoma to be leaders of the next generation. These activities include speech, poster, judging, and agricultural achievement contests, as well as leadership camps. These events may be open to youth ranging from the first grade, all the way to the collegiate level. AFR also offers scholarships to select students to encourage the continuation of their education.
Every fall AFR holds a speech contest for the youth of Oklahoma. Students from 3rd through 12th grade may participate in the appropriate category in one of five district contests. Those who win first and second in each category and division advance to state, which is held on Oklahoma State University’s campus.
With an estimated 500 students competing this year, the 2022 AFR Speech Contest had quite a turnout. Mulhall-Orlando FFA and 4-H members attended the Northwest district contest on Thursday, November 17, at the Autry Technology Center in Enid. FFA member Casyn Larman competed in the Senior Agribusiness category and won first place. Larman’s speech was about the beef market and addressed problems he and others have faced as beef producers in recent years. FFA member Jace Taylor won second place in the Intermediate Division, and Reghai Capria placed fourth in the Intermediate Agriscience category. Both Larman and Taylor will compete at AFR’s State Speech Contest in December.
Congratulations and good luck to everyone advancing to the state contest!