Hard working Cashius Norris receives BCAS Scholarship

By Diana Walker

It is no surprise that the first-born of Jerilyn and Greg Norris of Sibbald would follow in his family’s footsteps. Cash and his siblings Coleman, Camrie and Cooper are all involved in ranch life helping their Dad with feeding and caring for the ranch animals - beef cattle, a couple of dairy cows, horses, a few sheep and a couple of goats. They are all involved in the East Sounding Creek 4-H Club too. Cash finishes a couple of 4-H steers every year.

Cash, one of three Big Country Agricultural Society annual scholarships recipients, receives the first half of his $1,000 scholarship from BCAS director/scholarship committee member Kerry Molzan. Recipients must reside within the Special Areas and have completed Grade 12 from a school within Prairie Rose School Division north of the Red Deer River, or any school within Prairie Land School Division. They must be enrolled at a post-secondary institution in a post secondary course that would enhance rural living.

Completely immersed in the family business, Cash has been building his herd by purchasing a heifer from his Dad or keeping one from his own cows. Choosing secondary education was easy. He has learned that taking care of your livestock is No. 1. By signing up at Lakeland College for the 2024 fall term in the Animal Science Livestock Major program he hopes to learn more about the wellbeing of every animal. The program covers the biology and handling of bison, beef, dairy, sheep, horses and pigs. Then he can help others with the best nutrition for their livestock, so they have a successful year.

“My goal is to have my Masters in animal nutrition which includes 2 years at Lakeland and 2 years at the University of Saskatchewan,” says Cash. “I want a career that follows my passion.”

Cash has volunteered with the Big Country Agricultural Society for multiple functions over the years at the Crossroads Centre. He also volunteers with the Big Country Rod and Gun Club at a few events and helps with the United Church in Oyen and the Sibbald Community Club. Whenever a neighbour needs an extra set of hands, Cash is there.

“I am a hard worker and hope to return to our agriculture community to help out wherever needed — whether it be as a volunteer or to help with your livestock nutrition needs.”