10/10/2026
As we await a cooking turkey and gathering of families this weekend is a great time to reflect on our 2026 season and all that we are thankful for.
One of the greatest things we can appreciate and often the easiest overlooked are VOLUNTEERS so this Thanksgiving we would like to give huge thanks to volunteers and those who make shows and events and stockshow life happen in every aspect!
We know the amount of work and giving up of personal and family time that goes in to events both leading up to and during the activity we want you to know we see you and we appreciate you and are very thankful for the incredible people that give of their own and make things happen!
One in particular we have been planning to highlight and figure no better time but a weekend of giving thanks is the 2026 recipient of the IPE Ambassador award. If you know stock show life there's a good chance you know Buck and see how he 'just is' the guy, the guy that sees a need and fulfills it. He doesn't usually ask, he just does. In fact my first meeting of Buck was just that, he just popped in out of nowhere and helped do whatever was needed. He also is the guy who takes the time to stop and sincerely thank a volunteer for their commitment.
No one could acknowledge what he has given to shows and youth across the country better than his longtime friend, Tia Schram and so we have included her presenting speech for Buck as he received his award....a long post from us but well worthy on this beautiful Thanksgiving weekend.
THANK YOU not only Buck, but all of you who give of your time to make things happen and run smoothly in the world of livestock!
"This year‘s recipient is unique in that he doesn’t ask how he can help; he just does. Simple as that. He solves problems we don’t even know exist, and we don’t know they exist because he probably already took care of it. Over the last few days, you could find him as a ringman, an impromptu marshall, ring side, holding calves of every breed and every color, weighing steers, catching bids for the 4-H auction and genuinely supporting everyone at the show, young or old. However, one of the most special parts about this person is his love and passion for supporting youth programming. So naturally, he was in the junior show ring, and was a big part in how adaptable the show was yesterday to splitting the rings, and transitioning the show on the spot.
Not only is he involved in the beef show, I have also photographed him caching bids for the 4H sheep and swine auction. This man would do anything for kids, including making sure everyone is bidding beyond their budget for a good cause.
In his day to day life, he manages agricultural events and shows, so you would think when he gets to IPE he would want to relax and just be an exhibitor. But that’s so not him. He goes above and beyond, and doesn’t stop working until the job is done.
Above all, this man is humble, incredibly intention, and comes with a wicked sense of humor. Despite his rough and gruff exterior, his is one of the most kind hearted and genuine people I know. He is always there to support you, rarely with words, but always with acts of service, and usually a cold beverage.
But this isn’t the “hard work” award, it’s the ambassador award. And that is the best way to describe his contributions to IPE. He helps the show operate, he is a committed member to a great multi-breed crew, and he is always there to help. Even beyond the show, he speaks highly of IPE, and will always encourage out of province breeders to attend.
I have know this man for most of my life, and all of my junior show career, and I have watched him bend over backwards to help so many kids and families. He is a large part of the junior show scene in Alberta, and he is one of the most important people in my life. It brings my great joy to present the 2026 ambassador award, and give this man his well deserved recognition.
Congratulations, Buck Thompson."
-Tia Schram
