1- If you could host a Jr Nationals anywhere in the world where would it be?
Viva Las Vegas!
But since that probably isn’t in the cards we’re going to Double Down, Ante Up and place all our bets on Red in Des Moines this summer!
2- What is your favorite Jr activity that takes place during Jr nationals?
All of it! But our novice program (or Lindsey Littles J) is pretty fun.
With no minimum age requirement we have a large number of participants who are under the age of 8. We started this program as something for those exhibitors and their little brothers or sisters that come to the show and aren’t quite ready for the regular contests or need something fun to do in the afternoon. We do things like decorate cookies, make maracas and other various arts and crafts for an hour each day. The program is ran by Kaylee Miller, who is a past AJMAA junior board member and she does an amazing job. Most of the time I wish I could participate!
3- Where was the first Jr national you attended? And when?
The first junior national that I ever attended, or was really a part of, was the Maine-Anjou Junior National held in Spencer, Iowa, circa 2010. I had been hired the fall of 2009 as the Editor of the Voice and it is safe to say I had no idea what I was doing.
4- Who has had the biggest influence in your life?
This question is always tough for me. I grew up with great parents who gave me every opportunity and the mentality that you’re only as good as the people you surround yourself with. With that being said, many people have played very significant roles and influenced my life. Over the last 9 years probably my greatest influencer has been Amy Cowan with the American Hereford Association. If you don’t know Amy, get to know her. She is a master event planner, fellow Jackrabbit, all around great human and I’m very fortunate to call her a friend and mentor.
5- If you had one piece of advice to people traveling to Jr nationals, what would it be?
Plan ahead as best you can and don’t sweat the small stuff. No matter what problems arise, we can always get through it. If you have questions, call us, we’re happy to help!
6- If you could go back and tell 18-year-old you one thing what would it be?
Have the most fun you can and don’t pay one lick of attention to what everyone else tells you you should be doing. Be who you want to be and do what you want to do. You don’t have to have life figured out at 18. I’m 33 and still don’t know what I want to do when I’m older! Likening back to what I said before, surround yourself with good people and the rest will all fall into place.