Carthage, Mo. -- The nation's top calf ropers will team up with Joplin Regional Stockyards and The Larson Group to raise money for Camp Barnabas in the Second Annual Best of the Best Calf Roping and Cattle Industry College. Set for Saturday, Aug. 9, at the Missouri Entertainment and Event Center (Ozark Empire Fairgrounds) in Springfield, Mo., ticket proceeds will benefit Camp Barnabas, a Christian-based summer camp for special needs children located in Purdy, Mo.

Top National Finals Rodeo (qualifiers in calf roping and invited guests will rope for $100,000. Big-name talent will include last year's winner Matt Shiozawa as well as Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer Joe Beaver, Fred Whitfield, Trevor Brazile, Cody Ohl and Ryan Jarrett among others.

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Whiplash, the Cowboy Monkey, will add a fun, fast-paced, unique element to the activities. Watch as this pint-sized primate rounds up a herd of wild sheep. The unpredictable antics of Whiplash are bound to keep on-lookers in stitches! In addition to the calf roping, a Cattle Industry College will bring attendees the latest information on backgrounding and the cattle market. Mike Murphy with CattleFax headlines the college as he delivers "Navigating the Changing Business Environ-ment."

University of Missouri Beef Economist Dr. Vern Pierce presents "Your Focus … Survive or Thrive," while Republic, Mo., beef producer Danny Biglieni shares "Backgrounding with Proven Results."

Industry and event partners will bring attendees the latest on products needed to stay on top in the beef industry in the Best of the Best Trade Show. From animal health to farm equipment, the focus is on how to better the beef business.

Gates open at 8 a.m. for the day-long event. Ticket prices include a ribeye steak lunch, admission to the roping, cattlemen's college and trade show. Tickets and hotel information are available online at www.joplinstockyards.com and may be purchased at the gate the day of the event. For additional information on the Second Annual Best of the Best Calf Roping and Cattle Industry College visit the web at: www.joplinstockyards.com or call (417) 548-BEEF (2333).