Denver, CO – The National Western Stock Show (NWSS) and the Friends of the National Western are proud to announce that the 2025 Red Meat Club Dinner will honor two exceptional long-time volunteers, Anni Bengtson and John Hiemer, with the prestigious Friend of the National Western award. Their combined service of over forty years has made an immeasurable impact on the NWSS, its mission, and the community it serves.
The award will be presented at the exclusive Red Meat Club Dinner, January 16 in Denver. The dinner, an annual tradition, serves as an occasion to celebrate the tireless dedication of volunteers who contribute to the success of the NWSS.
Anni Bengtson: A Legacy of Passion for Art and Education
Anni Bengtson has volunteered at the National Western Stock Show for an incredible 32 years. From her early childhood visits to her grandparents’ farm in Minnesota, Anni developed a love for agriculture that has flourished throughout her volunteer career. After retiring in 1999, she made the Stock Show a daily commitment, volunteering in many service areas, as well as Volunteer leadership. Anni served as the Coors Western Art Coordinator for many years, overseeing an exhibit that supports the NW Scholarship Trust. She continues to volunteer at the Red Carpet Reception, one of her favorite annual highlights.
“Never, in my wildest dreams, would I have imagined receiving such an honor for doing something I love so much,” Anni says. “Thank you to the Red Meat Club for this incredible recognition.”
John Hiemer: A Commitment to Education and Agricultural Advocacy
Hiemer’s roots in agriculture and his dedication to service have been a lifelong passion. After attending the Stock Show for many years, he began volunteering in 2013, eventually serving on the Volunteer Committee, including two years as the Chairperson. John has volunteered in multiple service areas, including the equine and gator areas, and continues to advocate for agricultural education, especially for schoolchildren learning about where their food comes from. His volunteerism has been key to the Stock Show’s success, and his dedication to teaching the next generation about agriculture remains a driving force behind his work.
“I want to ensure that we keep the western lifestyle alive and educate youth about agriculture,” John says. “Through events like Boots and Business, Citizen of the West, and the Junior Livestock Auction, we’re making a difference, ensuring that future generations will carry the torch for agriculture.”
Honoring a Shared Commitment to Agriculture and Education
The combined legacies of Anni and John highlight the enduring importance of the NWSS not only as a showcase for livestock and agricultural excellence but also as a vital educational platform for the community. Their tireless volunteerism and dedication to ensuring that the next generation understands the value of agriculture and the western way of life serve as a model for others.
The Friends of the National Western award dinner is January 16, 2025, at the National Western Club in Denver. Tickets are $60 with happy hour beginning at 5:30 pm, followed by a Prime Rib dinner at 6:30 p.m. The evening will also include a special guest speaker presentation by Trey Wasserburger, owner and operator of TD Angus, an innovative and progressive seedstock operation in North Platte, Nebraska. For tickets and more information please call 303-295-6124. Space is limited, and tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
About the National Western Stock Show
Established in 1906, the National Western Stock Show is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that provides college and graduate-level scholarships in agricultural science, business, and rural medicine. Our mission is to serve producers and consumers worldwide by being the premier annual livestock show and center for year-round events. The 16-day show in January also serves as an entertainment arena, hosting one of the world’s richest regular-season professional rodeos, world-class horse shows, family educational events, and Colorado’s largest western trade show. For more information, visit nationalwestern.com.