Polk County Cattlemen's Sweetheart

Shelby
Shelby Lynn Freeman is the daughter of John Michael Freeman and Sherry Kitchen. Shelby is 18 years old and was born and raised in Polk County. Shelby is a 2011 graduating senior from Lake Gibson Sr. High School where she is a member of the National Honor Society and will be graduating with Honors. Shelby plans to attend Hillsborough Community College/University of Florida IFAS Campus in Plant City in the fall. Upon completion of her Associates Degree, she will transfer to the University of Florida to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree majoring in Agriculture Education with a minor in Ag Business.

Shelby maintains her own small Maine Anjou cow/calf operation in North Lakeland. Shelby has served Polk County Future Farmers of America (FFA) for the last 7 years in a variety of Leadership roles including President of Lake Gibson Sr. FFA, President of the Polk County Federation, and Polk County FFA District 8, Sub-District 2 Chairman. Shelby is an active member of the Polk County Cattlewomen, Polk County Junior Cattlemen‘s Association, and the Florida Cattlemen’s Association.

Shelby received the Polk County Cattlewomen’s Premiere Exhibitor Award in 2010. Her experiences include significant and recognized accomplishments in showing cattle and representing the beef industry throughout the State of Florida for the past 10 years. Shelby is a huge advocate of Florida Agriculture and is a very passionate young lady about her cattle and showing cows.

When Shelby is not representing/educating consumers about the beef industry, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Second to Cattle, would be her love and passion of the Forestry Industry. Extra curricular activities include softball, volleyball, French Club, Lake Gibson High School Lionettes, fellowship of Christian Athletes, and a member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy.

Shelby quotes “I feel honored and extremely blessed to have been selected as the 2011-2012 Polk County Cattlemen’s Sweetheart. I would like to thank the many amazing role models I have within the Cattlewomen and Cattlemen’s Association of Polk County. My goal is to continue to educate consumers about the beef industry, the importance of beef by-products/red meat in our daily diet, the strong heritage of cattlemen and the care of our animals, and the importance of the beef industry. As much as strive to and I would love to win the FCA Sweetheart, the crown and title will not change who I am or my love of cattle and my ongoing desire to educate the public about the beef industry and the importance of Agriculture in our Country. Thank you for you’re never ending support, encouragement, and faith in me.”

Sweetheart Photos

pic 017

Marcia and Cary Lightsey

Shelby Freeman & Polk County Cattlemen

pic 012

Shelby and Ray Clark