Arizona in the Saddle | Page 9

Recipients Honored at Arizona National Gala T he Arizona National honored several individuals at the recent Western Gala held December 27, 2014. This new event kicked off the 67th Arizona National Livestock Show and the opening of the 26th Cowboy Classics Western Art & Gear Show held at the Arizona State Fairgrounds December 27-31, 2014. The Western Gala was an elegant evening of mingling with fellow friends and supporters during the Farm to Fork, A Taste of Arizona reception in Cowboy Classics with wine tastings provided by Stronghold Winery, Page Springs Cellar Winery and other Arizona Agriculture companies providing delicious tastings. Guests had the opportunity to a private viewing of the beautiful art pieces such as paintings, western photography, leather work, jewelry and mercantile gifts. The Cowboy Classics Western Art & Gear Show was presented by the Kemper & Ethel Marley Foundation. Proceeds from Cowboy Classics benefited the Arizona National Scholarship Program. This year’s featured artist honored in a special presentation was western photographer, Kathy McCraine. Following the reception an Arizona Grown dinner was served with an amazing variety of products provided by Rousseau’s Farming Company, Crockett’s Honey, Green Valley Pecan Company and JBS. This special evening recognized the Show Dedicatee, Lyle Wright, Hall of Fame Honorees Jacque Accomazzo, David and Sue Kimmerle, Senator Steve Pierce and Farm Credit Services Southwest. The 2014-15 Arizona National Scholarship Recipients were recognized and master of ceremonies Patrick Bray, Executive Director of the Arizona Cattle Growers Association served as the auctioneer for the Arizona National Scholarship Program which raised over $7,000. Items sold included an exquisite pair of boots donated by Sabas Western Wear, the high demanding limited edition #1 Arizona National cap and Buyers Choice of a Historic Tour of the Las Vegas Ranch with Senator Steve Pierce or a Special Day at the Capitol with the Senator, one load of Alfalfa Hay donated by Bales Hay and Bag Boards with the University of Arizona Logo and Arizona National Logo donated by The Hanger Family. This special evening was about recognizing those individuals who have made a significant contribution to the Arizona National Livestock Show, making a difference in the lives of youth through the scholarship program and coming together to be a part of “Growing the Future.” The Arizona National Livestock Show, Inc. is a non-profit organization. For more information call the Arizona National office at (602) 258-8568 or visit www.anls.org. Photos by Wendy Hall At right, from top: Gala Presentations – Steve Pierce; Jaque Accomazzo; Kathy McCraine; Lyle Wright; Farm Credit 2014 Hall of Fame Group, Davis and Sue Kimmerle AZintheSaddle.com Gala Scholarship Group March 2015 9