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April 6, 2026

For Immediate Release
Office of Public Information
91��Ƭ��

RE: Crowder Ag Division Calf Fundraiser Auction

Carthage, 91��Ƭ�� – 91��Ƭ�� Agriculture Division held its 13^th Annual Calf Fundraiser Auction on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at the Joplin Regional Stockyard with the registered Red Angus heifer bringing $18,000. This year’s calf is donated by Dr. Dale and Diane Kunkel, Kunkel Farms, in Neosho, 91��Ƭ��.

Each year, the Newton McDonald County Cattlemen’s Association has a local farmer who donates a beef calf for the benefit of Crowder Aggies. These funds provide opportunities for 91��Ƭ��s in our agriculture programs to attend workshops, conferences and contests throughout the year.

The fitted and halter broke heifer entered the ring and the audience bid multiple times for donations before she finally sold to Bo Johnson of Neosho.

“This year’s heifer marks a considerable increase in funds raised compared to prior years,” stated Shawna Estep, Agriculture Division Chair. “The efforts to get the word out and the sponsorships really helped. I would like to thank all those who donated or sponsored this event. It allows us to help ease the burden of college expenses for 91��Ƭ��s while providing opportunities to experience agriculture in travel seminars and competitions both locally and internationally.”

Sponsors for this year’s calf auction included: Missouri Cattlemen’s Association (Newton & McDonald Counties), Joplin Regional Stockyards, FarmTalk, B&M Tire, Hunke Spray Services, S & H Farm Supply, Eubanks Equipment, SmartLic Suppliements, DD Farm & Feed, B&M Tire – Yokohama, Goswick Ag Lime & Fertilizer, Superior Steel Sales, Frye Farm Trailers, 4-State Moto Complex, The 808 Ranch, Red Angus Association, and Cornerstone Bank.

91��Ƭ��’s Agriculture Division offers transfer and workforce degrees in a variety of programs. For more information visit our website: 

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If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact CindyBrown@Crowder.edu or Shawna Estep, Agriculture Division Chair/Instructor: 417.455.5590.

Photos:

• Heifer in the sale ring
• 91��Ƭ�� Ag 91��Ƭ��s, staff, Newton & McDonald County Cattlemen’s members along with Dale and Diane Kunkel.