The best of Wyoming agriculture Holt, Proffit, True honored during annual Hall of Fame picnic
Douglas – On Aug. 15, over 200 people gathered at Riverside Park in Douglas to recognize Hight Proffit, Dave True and Havely Holt for their contributions to the agriculture industry.
Proffit and True were both inducted into the Wyoming Agriculture Hall of Fame, and Holt was recognized as Wyoming Agriculture in the Classroom’s Exemplary Educator of the Year.
While Sens. John Barrasso and Mike Enzi (both R-Wyo.) were unable to attend the event, both submitted statements on the floor of the Senate, which were entered into the Aug. 1 Congressional Record.
In the Congressional Record entry, read by Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), Sen. John Barrasso wrote, “This year marks the 150th anniversary of Wyoming’s status as a U.S. Territory and the 106th annual Wyoming State Fair. Although the Wyoming Agriculture Hall of Fame began only in 1992, Wyoming has a longstanding tradition of recognizing those who are integral to the success of our state’s agriculture industry.”
Barrasso continued that induction into the Hall of Fame is a tremendous honor.
“The members of this elite club grow crops and raise livestock while building a strong foundation for the next generation of successful producers,” he commented. “Together, they will make the next 150 years of Wyoming’s history as rich as the last.”
Proffit
Enzi recognized Proffit’s life-long contributions to agriculture, noting his public service, as well as his commitment to his state, county, neighbors and friends.
“Hight moved to Wyoming at a young age during the middle of the Great Depression when it wasn’t easy to make a living, let alone to be a rancher,” said Enzi. “Much like he would show throughout his life, Hight showed what you can accomplish through hard work and resolve and learned to make the best out of everything.”
Further, Enzi noted Proffit’s innovation led him to improve his ranch and the community around him.
“Hight excelled in improving agriculture and left his mark on the long, proud history of Wyoming agriculture,” he added.
Enzi also touted Proffit’s dedication to his family, recognizing his 60-plus-year marriage to Dorothy and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
“Although it has now been 16 years since Hight has passed, his memory lives on and his example continues to inspire others,” Enzi said. “Hight truly lived the Code of the West.”
True
Barrasso acknowledged True for his long-standing commitment to the agriculture industry and his community.
While True’s father moved to Casper as part-owner of a drilling company, Barrasso said, “Dave worked with his father and brothers to expand the company’s focus.”
“Together with his wife Melanie, Dave works to make sure the family business endures for the next generation,” Barrasso commented. “Dave manages the agriculture holdings and actively seeks out opportunities to serve the larger agricultural community.”
Further, Barrasso cited True’s community involvement, including to the Wyoming 4-H Foundation, Casper Rotary Club, Farm Bureau and University of Wyoming, among others.
“The scope of Dave’s leadership is not limited to the borders of Wyoming,” he said, “and Dave is an outstanding resource for the next generation of producers.”
Educator
Annually, Wyoming Agriculture in the Classroom (WAIC) recognizes their Exemplary Educator of the Year, this year honoring Havely Holt of Douglas for her dedication to WAIC and the Wyoming Stewardship Project.
In honoring Holt, Cheney said, “This is all about the future of ag and making sure that our kids understand how important the industry is and how important it is we continue these traditions.”
Holt was awarded a cash prize of $5,000 through WAIC, funded by Anadarko Petroleum Corporation. Wyoming Livestock Roundup and Mantha Phillips also support the program.
“Anadarko Petroleum is proud to honor Havely and to participate with WAIC in this program,” said Anadarko’s Susan Aldridge. “We appreciate what you do for our students and the community, and we’re very glad to have the opportunity to recognize you for your work.”
Wyoming Livestock Roundup Publisher Dennis Sun commented, “Congratulations to all of tonight’s award winners.”
Saige Albert is managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup and can be reached at saige@wylr.net.
