# First Bale of Cotton Event Raises $16,000 for Scholarships

Author: Jim Steadman
Published: 2022-09-30
Canonical URL: https://www.cottongrower.com/cotton-news/first-bale-of-cotton-event-raises-16000-for-scholarships/

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[The Algodon Club of Harlingen, TX](https://www.algodonclub.com/) recently raised $16,000 for scholarships during their annual [First Bale of Cotton and Scholarship Fundraiser](https://www.algodonclub.com/first-bale). Established in 1953, the organization was formed to publicize and create interest in cotton and the cotton industry in the Rio Grande Valley through social activities, including a scholarship program for graduating seniors in the area who plan to pursue a degree in agriculture or related fields.

Wesley Vanderpool from Alamo, TX harvested this year’s first bale from a field planted to Stoneville ST 4990B3XF, marking the ninth consecutive year that a BASF variety provided the first bale in the U.S. Each year, BASF purchases the bale to help support the scholarship fund.

[![](https://www.cottongrower.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/2022-Algadon-First-Bale-Auction-Group-Photo2-Web.jpg)](https://www.cottongrower.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/2022-Algadon-First-Bale-Auction-Group-Photo2-Web.jpg)

##### Pictured with the 2022 First Bale of Cotton are (from left) Meranda Easter, BASF; Wesley Vanderpool; Verne Vanderpool; and Luke Etheredge, BASF Agronomist.

In 2021, the Algodon Club awarded $31,000 in scholarships to graduating high school seniors in the Rio Grande Valley. In addition, the Harlingen Cotton Committee awarded $10,000 in scholarships to students at Texas State Technical College.

*Based on information provided by BASF*