In the bustling world of Fremont County’s Junior Livestock Sale, one name stands out for her unwavering dedication and relentless work ethic: Lynette Jeffres. As the bookkeeper and sale secretary for the Fremont County Junior Livestock Board, Jeffres has been the backbone of the fair’s livestock events for over a decade, a role she has embraced with passion and commitment.
“This is my 11th year in this role, and it’s really all about the kids,” Jeffres says with a smile. “Someone did this for me when I was a kid. It’s about giving back and ensuring that the kids have a great experience.” Her sentiment is echoed throughout the fairgrounds, where volunteers and participants alike recognize the immense effort Jeffres and the Junior Livestock Sale Board invests in making the event a success.
The Fremont County Junior Livestock Board is a dedicated group of volunteers who play crucial roles in orchestrating the fair’s success. Chairman Carmen Vasco, Vice Chairman Walt Neil, Treasurer Mark McConnell, and Secretary Cori Hamilton are among those who contribute countless hours. Joining them are Bobby Lane, Wendell VonKrosigk, Jared Hamilton, Amanda Slack, and of course, Lynette Jeffres. Their collective efforts manage everything from logistical details to intricate paperwork, ensuring that the sale runs smoothly and every child has the opportunity to showcase their hard work. “It takes a lot of volunteers and time,” Jeffres notes. “Not many people realize the behind-the-scenes work that goes into making the fair and the sale happen. It’s a huge team effort.”
The fair might seem like a seasonal affair, but for Jeffres, the work extends far beyond the event’s week-long festivities. Preparation for the sale begins months in advance, involving hundreds of hours of meticulous planning and organization. From managing emails and buyer registrations to handling a mountain of paperwork, Jeffres ensures everything is in place for the sale to run smoothly.
“The real work starts after the fair,” Jeffres explains. “There are another 200 hours of work once the fair ends. It’s not just about the event itself, but also about the follow-up – making sure all the paperwork is complete, the thank-you cards are sent, and everything is organized for the kids and buyers.”
The chaos of sale day is a sight to behold. Jeffres and her team set up the night before, coordinating with volunteers, auctioneers, and buyers to ensure everything runs seamlessly. Despite the frenzy, Jeffres handles the day with grace, knowing that behind every transaction is a child who has put their heart and soul into their project.
“The sale day is absolute insanity,” she admits with a chuckle. “But it all comes together nicely. We track each animal from the time it’s tagged until its final destination, whether it’s resale, freezer, or otherwise. It’s a huge team effort, and the board and volunteers are invaluable.”
One of Jeffres’s notable achievements is the addition of a third fair component in 2022: the “Add-On” program. This initiative allows businesses and out-of-state supporters to contribute extra funds to help more kids. “It’s a fantastic way for businesses and even out-of-state grandmas to be involved,” Jeffres says. “This year, Big Horn Co-op and Baileys did an add-on for all the kids, which was a wonderful bonus.”
Despite the joys and successes, the role is not without its challenges. Jeffres recounts the bittersweet moments when a child’s hard work doesn’t meet weight requirements. “It’s tough when a kid doesn’t make weight. They put so much effort into their projects, and it’s hard to see them disappointed. But we always try to offer support and encouragement.”
Jeffres’s commitment to the fair is a testament to her character and dedication. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s also a lot of fun,” she says. “I get to catch up with old friends and see the kids grow. Many of the volunteers now were in 4H with me, so it feels like a full circle.”
As the fair approaches its annual crescendo, Lynette Jeffres remains a beacon of hard work and dedication, proving that behind every successful event is a team of passionate volunteers making it all possible. For Jeffres, it’s not just about the fair; it’s about fostering a community and supporting the next generation of 4H and livestock enthusiasts.
Th