Top, long-time buyer recognized for support of Smith County youth

By LORI COPE | East Texas Edition

Weldon Holcomb with Grand Champion Lamb exhibitor Tanner Hunter. Hunter's lamb, and champion goat, were among the projects purchased by Holcomb at this year's Smith County Junior Livestock Show sale. Holcomb was honored with a Stetson hat and a pair of Luchesse boots during an Appreciation Dinner prior to this year's livestock show. -- Staff photo by Cope

April 22, 2004 -- Weldon Holcomb did a lot of nodding on April 3 during the Smith County Junior Livestock Show's sale, just like he's done at many of the annual events.

No, Holcomb wasn't taking a quick nap; but instead, he was working to gain the attention of the auctioneer.

Of the 18 Grand and Reserve Champion winners presented in this year's sale, Holcomb was the high bidder for six of those youth's projects.

"And he stays throughout the entire sale, buying animals, as well as shop and home economic projects," said Terry Boyd, vice president of Smith County Junior Livestock Show and Scholarship Inc. Holcomb has contributed thousands of dollars over the year in support of the county's youth.

This year's total for the sale was about $160,000, up from last year's $121,000, noted Smith County Extension Agent Brian Triplett.

For many years, Holcomb has attended the sale and overwhelmingly supported the youth. To recognize him for these contributions, the Smith County Junior Livestock Show and Scholarship group recognized Holcomb during the first Appreciation Dinner on March 25. He was presented a pair of Luchesse boots and a Stetson hat.

During the sale, on April 3, Holcomb and his wife Joan were asked to stand. "We recognized them for the years of dedication and support to our county's youth," Boyd said.

Holcomb explained why he does it. "I think it's important to help the good kids; to show them you don't have to be bad to make the headlines."

Holcomb, a practicing attorney in Tyler, said he has seen his share of "bad kids," especially during the past 40 years as a defense attorney.

Plus, Holcomb pointed out, he was "reared in the country, so I know the work that goes into raising livestock ... little alone a show project.

"My wife (Joan) and I just feel it's beneficial to the community and to the kids," he concluded.