Gatesville couple wins TFB Excellence in Agriculture contest

(ARLINGTON, Texas)–A Gatesville couple who has showed continuous devotion to their community, family and faith has been selected as this year’s Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) Excellence in Agriculture (EIA) competition winner.

Cody and Erika Archie own and operate Valet Cleaners and Laundromat. Erika also works for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development office.

When they’re not at their jobs in town, they enjoy volunteering in their community and taking care of their livestock at Bar 7 Ranch near Turnersville.

“The Archies are a great representation of what this award is all about,” TFB President Russell W. Boening said. “They unselfishly give of their time and talents to share their love of agriculture and community.”

The Archies were selected from a group of three finalists that included: Scott and Sara Holloway of Bowie and Jake and Brandi Murphree of Hamilton.

The EIA contest recognizes young Texas men and women who are involved in agriculture but do not earn their primary income directly from their own farm or ranch enterprises.

“These contestants play a vital role in their communities and within Texas agriculture as well,” Boening said. “We’re pleased to honor them.”

The Archies are both Sunday School teachers at their church. They also volunteer with their children’s 4-H clubs.

Cody is a director for the Coryell County Farm Bureau. Both he and Erika serve on the state Young Farmer & Rancher committee.

As this year’s winner, the Archies will receive: a Polaris Ranger, courtesy of Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company; a $5,000 cash award, courtesy of Farm Credit; a plaque representative of the award; and a $750 service voucher, courtesy of Chevrolet.

The Archies will go on to represent Texas at the national competition during the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) annual meeting Jan. 8-13 in Orlando, Fla.