Ozark Empire Fair names youth grant winners

Missouri

Ozark Empire Fair has selected 12 area youth to receive grants through the Youth of the Ozarks Program.

Each applicant was judged on their participation with the Ozark Empire Fair. Applicants were required to work, volunteer or exhibit at the 2004 and 2005 fairs. Other criteria included extracurricular activities and proposed use of the grant. To be eligible, applicants were between the ages of 15 and 21.

These grants of $500 each are part of a program established by the fair in 1992 to enhance and encourage the participation of youth in activities at the fair.

The 2006 winners included: Kaleb Allexander, El Dorado Springs; Barbara Jo Anderson, Walnut Grove; Kelsey Cole, Neosho; Kayla Leak, Strafford; Curtis Murphy, Ash Grove; Heather Rash, Clever; Kayley Reedy, Warsaw; Hailey Robertson, Lamar; Ashley Stranghoner, Republic; and Larissa Swearengin, Nixa.

In addition to the grants sponsored by the fair the Ozark Antique Auto Club sponsored a $400 grant for an applicant requesting funds for a project with an emphasis in agriculture mechanics. Chris Garton, Clever, received that award. Desperado-Limousin gave a $500 grant designated for a beef exhibitor to Justin Hopkins, Willard.

For more information on the fair or other activities at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds visit their website at www.ozarkempirefair.com.

Date: 2/23/06