Four New Members Join Livestock Hall of Fame
RALEIGH – On October 25, Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler welcomed four new inductees into the North Carolina State Fair Livestock Hall of Fame during a ceremony held at the State Fairgrounds.
Commissioner Troxler emphasized the importance of agriculture to the State Fair, stating, “Agriculture always has been and will always remain the heart of the N.C. State Fair.” He noted that the livestock shows represent some of the best in the nation and highlighted the contributions of the inductees in shaping these events.
Inductees Recognized for Lifelong Contributions
This year’s inductees include Heather Boodey from Franklin County, who was honored in the Horses category. Boodey’s involvement with the N.C. State Fair spans over 40 years, starting from her childhood passion for horses to founding Ingleside Farm in 1991. Her farm has become a vital part of the horse show at the fair, earning a reputation for excellence in training both horses and riders. Boodey’s ability to recognize talent and mentor young equestrians has solidified her legacy in North Carolina’s equestrian community.
Senator Tom McInnis of Moore County received the Commissioner’s Meritorious award. His longstanding support for youth livestock shows and the agricultural sector in North Carolina is notable. Formerly the COO of Iron Horse Auction Company, McInnis has played a key role in supporting the Junior Livestock Sale of Champions, which benefits scholarships for participants. Throughout his six terms as a state senator, he has been a dedicated advocate for agriculture.
Longstanding Commitment to Agriculture
Martha Leonard Mobley, also from Franklin County, was inducted as a General Supporter. Growing up on Leonard Farms, Mobley developed a strong appreciation for agriculture, which she has passed on to others through her work as a livestock agent since 1988. She has dedicated her career to educating youth in animal husbandry and showmanship, continuing the legacy of her late husband, who was also honored by the Hall of Fame.
J.W. Wilson of Lenoir County was recognized in the Swine category. Wilson began raising pigs at age eight and exhibited at the N.C. State Fair for the first time in 1983. His dedication to the swine industry has fostered a strong family tradition, as his daughters and granddaughters have also participated in the fair. Wilson is celebrated for his mentorship of young people, sharing his extensive knowledge of agriculture and livestock.
Recognizing Agricultural Excellence
Since its inception in 1980, the N.C. State Fair Livestock Hall of Fame has honored individuals who have made significant contributions to the fair’s livestock shows. Inductees can include livestock producers, fair employees, agricultural representatives, and others involved in promoting agriculture.
With this year’s additions, the Hall of Fame now includes 193 honorees, reflecting a rich legacy of support for North Carolina’s agriculture and livestock exhibitions.
Source: N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
