Despite the less-than-ideal weather, the annual Fall Gather at West Texas A&M University saw an incredible turnout. The event, held on Sept. 21, brought together students, families, agricultural producers and community members to celebrate the rich culture and history of agriculture in the Texas panhandle.
With 522 plates served, 83 volunteers and attendees from all walks of life, the event was a huge success. Kyli Kraft, a Committee chair, reflected on the day. “Fall Gather was an incredible success,” Kraft said. “Seeing all the hard work, dedication, and countless hours come together was truly rewarding. It was neat to watch the vision we had for this event finally take shape, creating something that brought our community together in such a meaningful way.”
The food was the highlight of the evening, with four local grill teams preparing their unique takes on the classic Denver Cut. Guests had the opportunity to taste and vote for their favorite dishes, with the grill teams delivering outstanding flavor and creativity. At the end of the day, Reinhert Hay and Commodities grill team took home the prized grill set, earning bragging rights until next year’s event.
Attendees were welcomed by volunteers, encouraging guests to venture to a variety of booths, offering interactive and educational activities related to agriculture. Some of the booths included a leather press where visitors could create their own coasters, Dairy Max’s informative dairy booth complete with chocolate milk and ice cream and a weather-themed booth where participants learned about the ever-darkening clouds in the sky. A special hit with the younger crowd was the “Corny Corner,” a space designated for kids to enjoy their evening as much as their parents did. A corn pit being the main attraction, accompanied by toys provided by The Happy Toy Maker.
Live music by WT students Colt Edrington and Nelson McKinney provided a very uplifting environment for guests to relax and enjoy. The appearance of Thunder, WT’s mascot, and the new addition, Doc, was a favorite for all. Another family-friendly aspect was a workbook that guided children through the event, encouraging them to visit all the booths and learn more about the agricultural industry.
A small but dedicated group of WT agriculture students organized and created the entire event. With a big dream to celebrate agriculture and bridge the gap between the community involved in the industry and those unfamiliar with it, these students have succeeded for the second year in a row.
“Even with threatening rain and lightning, people came and stayed. I heard nothing but compliments and praises,” said Dr. Kevin Pond, Dean of the Paul Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, “I am very proud of the students who have worked so hard to put this event together and the positive image they’ve created for Agricultural sciences and the college.”
Along with delicious food and interactive booths, Fall Gather offered a sense of community unity. Every ticket purchase included a free t-shirt and complimentary entry to the WT football game, where attendees could continue the celebration. The funds raised from the event will go toward supporting WT Agriculture clubs and organizations.
By highlighting the hard work and dedication behind agriculture in the Texas Panhandle, Fall Gather encouraged many to gain a deeper appreciation for the industry that feeds and sustains the world. This unique blend of education, food, and fun ensured that the evening was more than just a tailgate—it was a tribute to the people and practices that make agriculture in the area so vital.
“Being one of the founding members of Fall Gather, it’s been amazing to watch the event grow and evolve,” Brandon Melnikoff, a founding member of Fall Gather said, “This year’s success is a testament to the passion and hard work poured into it by students, volunteers, and stakeholders. It was especially neat to help guide the committee members and watch them step up, take the lead, and make this event even better. Seeing our vision come to life through their dedication made it all the more rewarding.”
As the evening wound down, one thing was clear: the weather may have been far from perfect, but the community spirit, the delicious food, and the engaging activities made Fall Gather 2024 a memorable celebration of the people and the land that shapes the Texas Panhandle.
