The Montgomery County Cattlemen's Association is pleased to present Thomas Eugene (Gene) Paulk with the annual Father of the Year award.

Married to Cindy for 25 years, the couple resides in Highland Home and has raised two children. Brandie graduated from the University of Alabama in December 2009, and Thomas Jr. just graduated from Highland Home this May.

Gene grew up on Paulk Road in the Ramer area, farming with his father. Together, he and Cindy raised the children in the country and around the family's farm in Pine Level. Today, Gene enjoys working the farm, but over the years he has owned and driven a semi-truck, raced cars and, occasionally, participated in rodeos as a bareback rider. Currently, the Paulks have four buffalo and a herd of miniature bulls on their farm, while their favorite bull, Rowdy, resides with them in Highland Home. This 900-lb pet was bottle fed by the children, and Gene likes to take Rowdy for walks on a leash.

For many years Gene Paulk has been a vital volunteer with Little Boots Rodeo. Since he works behind the scenes (aka chutes) many might not immediately recognize him. However, his assistance with the rodeo has been invaluable over the years as he assists the kids with muttin' bustin', chute wrestling, bull riding and all the other stock events. Even though his children are too old to participate, Gene absolutely loves helping the kids and making sure they ride safe every time out of the chute.

Thanks for all of you hard work, Gene!