Holstein Association Names Herzog Elite Breeder Award Winner

Brattleboro, Vermont (June 30, 2008)…Max (Kip) Herzog, Petaluma, Calif., has been selected as the recipient of Holstein Association USA’s 2008 Elite Breeder Award. Herzog was honored at the recent National Holstein Convention in Wisconsin Dells, Wis. The award recognizes those who have bred outstanding animals, thereby making a notable contribution to the advancement of the Holstein breed in the United States.

Sleepy Hollow Dairy started in the Holstein business in 1903, and for nearly 100 years, was one of the most respected providers of outstanding Registered Holstein genetics in the dairy industry. The first registered animal entered the herd in 1925 and three years later, the herd was moved by Kip’s dad, Max, to Petaluma. Kip became a partner in 1961 and managed the herd until it was sold to Ron Pietersma in 2000.

From the time Kip took over the herd until it was sold, the name Sleepy Hollow was synonymous with superior genetics. Numerous internationally recognized cow families were developed at Sleepy Hollow, among which 151 cows were designated Gold Medal Dams and 77 Dams of Merit. A total of 173 cows were classified Excellent.

For years, Sleepy Hollow led the nation in the development of Gold Medal Dams, which showcased the strength of their breeding and reproductive programs. The herd also regularly stood at the top of the DHIR and Production Honor lists. Breeding and developing cows that produced and reproduced at this elite level set the herd apart from its peers.

The Sleepy Hollow prefix was an international legend for years, first in Japan and later in Europe. More Sleepy Hollow bulls were sold to Germany and France than from any other U.S. breeder, not only because of the outstanding genetics, but also because of the honesty and integrity of the breeding program.

Kip tended to use bloodlines that originated from outstanding cow families because he knew they would breed true and maintain the values he wanted in his cows…long-necked dairy machines with huge, open ribs, high and wide rear udders and more substance of bone than most herds. This breeding philosophy was why there were so many older cows in the herd that just kept calving year after year and adding to their lifetime milk totals generation after generation.

Breeding cows that became brood cows, providing the seed stock for dairy producers worldwide, and providing leadership locally and within the Holstein industry are what set Kip Herzog apart from the average breeder. The respect other breeders had for him and the reputation he earned as a man of honor and integrity truly made him an Elite Breeder.

For more information, contact Jim Leuenberger, Communications Manager, at 715-524-5685.

Richard Coyne Receives Distinguished Leadership Award From Holstein Association USA

Brattleboro, Vermont (June 30, 2008)…Richard Coyne, Avon, New York, is the 2008 recipient of the Holstein Association USA’s Distinguished Leadership Award. The award was presented at the Association’s recent National Convention in Wisconsin Dells, Wis.
In its second year, the award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated outstanding and unselfish leadership for the betterment of the dairy industry.

As a young 4-H member 70 years ago, Richard “Dick” Coyne made the decision to introduce Registered Holsteins to his family farm, a decision that had a major impact on his life and career. When he and his brother, Gerald, formed a partnership a few years later, they continued to expand their herd, worked to breed a genetically-superior herd, and Dick added his leadership in local, state and national dairy levels.

“Registered Holsteins have provided my family and me with a great living, brought us many friends, and allowed us to travel, especially during my years on the Holstein board,” Dick said. “I’ll always be grateful for that opportunity.”

Dick served on the National Holstein board of directors from 1984 to 1992. During his tenure, Dick’s knowledge and expertise in breeding, merchandising and showing dairy cattle were of great benefit as a member of the Genetic Advancement Committee (GAC). As a GAC member, he was one of the directors who led the board in changing the TPI formula to a better balance of type and production. That decision paved the way for the TPI formula to include information other than type and production that would guide the U.S. dairy industry toward breeding more profitable cows.

Dick always understood the importance of dairy farmers providing a positive image of dairying in the public eye. He was a member of the founding committee for the Dairy of Distinction Program in New York, which recognizes farms for their overall appearance. Coyne Farms was a recipient of the award and Dick continues to serve on the program committee.

Perhaps Dick’s greatest leadership accomplishment and contribution to preserving agriculture in his local community was entering Coyne Farms in the New York State Farmland Protection Grants Program. It provides a perpetual restriction on the development of the land, which is located less than 20 miles south of the city of Rochester and bordered by a major interstate. The program will ensure the preservation of the farm and will help protect the rich tradition of agriculture in the Avon community.

Dick is a past president of the New York Holstein Association and his son, Greg, is the current president, making them the first father and son to hold the position. Over the years, Dick selected cattle for many regional Holstein club sales and the New York State Sale. He was co-chairman of the 1993 National Convention Holstein Sale in Rochester, N.Y. During his presidency, New York was divided into districts which held individual district Holstein shows and which are still held today.

Dick and Jerry have made it inviting for the next generation to farm. They recognized the importance of handing over management responsibilities and giving the next generation a stake in the future of the operation by allowing them to make decisions and try new things. Two of Dick’s sons, Greg and Shawn, a nephew, Malachy, and a grandson, Brian, are partners in the operation. Another grandson, Steven, has also returned to the farm after graduating from college.

There is no doubt Dick’s passion for the dairy business has rubbed off on his sons and grandsons and made it an attractive livelihood for them. Nephew Malachy said it best when commenting on what drives his dad and uncle: “I believe their drive and determination come from a desire to have the next generation enjoy the unexplainable satisfaction that is dairy farming.”

For more information, contact Jim Leuenberger, Communications Manager, at 715-524-5685.

Brattleboro, Vermont (June 30, 2008)…Mark and Angie Ulness, Valders, Wis., are Holstein Association USA’s 2008 Distinguished Young Holstein Breeders. They were presented with the award at the recent National Holstein Convention in Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

The Ulness’ have made great strides since taking over their operation in 2002, building a strong foundation for their future with Registered Holsteins based on hard work, careful decision making and strong values.

Both Mark-31 and Angie-30 grew up on Registered Holstein farms in northeast Wisconsin. Mark’s parents, Wally and Ava, established the Ragnar prefix in 1976 and started building their Registered Holstein herd. Angie grew up at Cycle Farms, a fourth-generation Registered Holstein farm, owned by Bill and Clarice Brey and their family.

Mark and Angie were actively involved in 4-H and Junior Holstein activities growing up. Following graduation from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with degrees in Dairy Science, Mark returned to the home farm and Angie was employed by the Holstein Association as a regional field representative from 2000-2005.

Mark and Angie purchased the herd and machinery in May 2002 and were married that September. In October 2003, they purchased the house, buildings and 80 acres and continue to rent the remaining 140 acres.

Herd Management

Considerable improvement has been made in cow comfort and nutrition, which in turn has increased production per cow. The current rolling herd average on twice daily milking is 27,714 pounds of milk, 1,068 pounds of butterfat and 892 pounds of protein on 69 cows.

Breeding Program

Mark and Angie believe in using the best AI sires available to maximize genetic improvement and longevity in their herd. “The sires we use combine high type with high production and do it consistently,” Mark said. “Cows need to have strength, width and depth to allow them to consume large amounts of feed and in turn produce large quantities of milk. And if they do that over several lactations, it allows us to market more animals for dairy replacements.” Sires currently being used at Ragnar include Goldwyn, Shottle, Stormatic, Durham, Linjet, Talent, Damion, Advent, Bolton, and Fortune.

Productive Life (PL) is another tool used to help enhance the longevity of the herd. “Just in our herd, we’ve seen that daughters of bulls with high PL ratings matured gracefully and lived long, trouble-free lives while those from low PL sires often left the herd at a young age or were high maintenance animals,” Mark said.

Over the past six years, Mark and Angie have been working on developing cow families and improving profitability. “We are working on building pedigrees with Very Good and Excellent cows that have the ability to produce large amounts of milk over the course of their lifetimes,” Mark said.

“The ultimate goal of our breeding program is to breed a well-respected herd, consign animals to sales with our prefix that will have a positive impact on other people’s herds, breed an animal that will compete well at national shows and be nominated All- American, and to develop a cow family and merchandising program that will have international demand,” Angie said. “Having Registered Holsteins has allowed us to sell our genetics at a premium, resulting in extra income we have put toward paying down loans, reinvesting in new cow families and making capital investments on the farm,” she added. The Holstein COMPLETE program has saved the Ulness’ money on the many Holstein Association USA programs and products they use to market their genetics effectively.

The Ragnar herd has received the Holstein Progressive Breeders Registry Award for the past 15 years. Many of the top cows in the herd trace back to Ragnar Linjet Callie EX-93-3E-GMD-DOM, the granddam of the first bull they sent to AI. The herd’s current BAA is 108.9, with 14 cows scored Excellent, 29 Very Good and 21 Good Plus. Six cows have been named Gold Medal Dams and six cows in the herd have produced over 200,000 pounds of milk in their lifetime.

Industry Involvement

Mark and Angie are highly involved in the dairy industry and their local community, serving on national, state and local committees. In February, they received the Wisconsin Holstein Association Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder Award.

Working with and developing Registered Holsteins is the passion of Mark and Angie. They believe their investment in classification, milk testing, registration, buying higher value semen, embryo transfer, advertising and having a Web site (www.holsteinworld.com/ragnar) will pay off over time. They also see their time spent in the Registered Holstein industry as being beneficial. “Being a part of the Registered Holstein industry has given us the chance to meet many people and develop many friendships,” Angie said. “We cherish the time we spend with breeders who share the same goals and passion we do.”

Both Mark and Angie want to raise their family like they were raised, giving their three children, Clarissa-4, Garrett-3 and Whitney-8 months, the opportunity to experience many of the “life lessons” on the farm and fun activities involving Registered Holsteins as they did. “We strive to raise our children to be honest and hard working, and to have fun and dream big,” Mark and Angie said. “By paying close attention to the things we can control, and with luck on our side, we can do what we love to do everyday – work with Registered Holsteins successfully.”

For more information, contact Jim Leuenberger, Communications Manager, at 715-524-5685.

Six Finalists Named in Distinguished Junior Member Contest

Brattleboro, Vermont (June 30, 2008)…Six finalists were named in the 2008 Distinguished Junior Holstein Member (DJM) competition at the National Junior Holstein Convention on June 26. The contest recognizes Junior Holstein members for outstanding work with their projects and is the highest honor that can be received by a Junior Holstein member.

This year’s finalists are Andrew Birch, Derby, Vt.; Julia Hudyncia, Fort Plain, N.Y., Heather Petersheim, Viroqua, Wis., Lucas Sjostrom, Lafayette, Minn., Michael Stewart, Oelwein, Iowa, and David Wilson, Port Royal, Pa.

“The knowledge and passion these individuals have for the Holstein cow and the dairy industry is just incredible,” said Kelli Dunklee, Holstein Association USA Youth Program Specialist. “I am confident that with this caliber of youth, our industry will remain strong for many years to come.”

The field was narrowed down from twelve semifinalists by interviews that took place at the convention. The six finalists receive annual renewed memberships to Holstein Association USA.

The DJM contest is designed to honor Junior Holstein members ages 17 to 21 who have excelled in their junior project work, involvement on their farm, and in their communities. Twelve semifinalists are selected based on an entry book that includes the story of their junior Holstein work, information about their cattle, involvement in school and community activities, and personal view questions.

For more information, contact Jim Leuenberger, Communications Manager, at 715-524-5685.

Holstein Youth Honored at National Junior Holstein Convention

Brattleboro, Vt. (June 30, 2008)…Over 700 youth gathered in Wisconsin Dells, Wis. last week for the National Junior Holstein Convention, making it one of the largest in history.

“Enthusiasm and knowledge for the Holstein cow and the dairy industry was at an all-time high as the week was filled with a variety of exciting programs and events,” said Kelli Dunklee, Holstein Association USA Youth Programs Specialist. “Youth had the chance to meet Junior members from coast to coast who share similar interests, which offered them a tremendous networking opportunity.”

Public Speaking Contest

Forty-eight contestants participated in this year's Prepared Public Speaking competition. In the junior division, first place went to Crystal Siemers-Peterman, Wisconsin, with her speech, “Opportunities with U.S. Holsteins.” Second place was Lucia Cerasoli, Pennsylvania, with “Classical Music Geeks,” and third was Collin Stoltzfus, Pennsylvania, “The First 24 Hours of Calf Care.”

In the intermediate division, Nancy Jackson, Missouri, placed first with “Ride that Wave!,” second was Jessica Budge, Oregon, “Methane Generated Power,” and in third was Kelly Lee, Wisconsin, “Technology Isn’t A Bad Word.”

Heidi Scapanski, Minnesota, captured first place in the senior division with her speech, titled “The Assembly Line.” Coming in second was Malorie Rhoderick, Maryland, with “Inbreeding,” and third place went to Abigail Andrew, New York, “B.S.E.”

Folding Display Competition

The second annual Folding Display competition, in which participants create a free-standing display on a dairy industry topic, received 20 entries in three divisions.

Megan Rauen, Iowa, had the winning entry in the junior division with her display titled “Queen of the Breed.” In second was Christy Achen, Minnesota, with “Are You Smarter Than A National Holstein Member?.” Third place went to Thomas DiGiovanni, Ohio, with “Cow Groupies.”

In the intermediate division, Corbin Wood, Pennsylvania, had the winning display, “Junior Holstein Programs – New and Old.” Joseph Martinelli, New Jersey, placed second with “Life Cycle of a Holstein Cow,” and in third was Allison Janes, Ohio, with “Could These Be Lurking on Your Farm?.”

For the senior division, first place was Keri Bickel, Ohio, with “Milk: Udderly Delicious,” second place went to Leah Henkes, Iowa, with “Show Me Your ID,” and third place went to Jarrett Remsberg, Maryland, with “Removal of Compounds in Dairy Waste Lagoons by Ferrate.”

State Scrapbook and Banner Competition

The state scrapbook contest gives each state the opportunity to showcase the Junior Holstein activities they do throughout the year. Ten states submitted entries this year, with Pennsylvania having the winning scrapbook, New York placing second, and Iowa placing third.

A new contest this year was the digital scrapbook competition. This division is judged on the same criteria as a traditional scrapbook, but must be presented on a computer, DVD player, or other digital format. Winning the first digital scrapbook contest was California, with Iowa placing second and Minnesota coming in third.

States have an opportunity to show off their creativity in the state banner competition. Seventeen entries were displayed throughout the convention. First place in the banner contest went to Iowa, second to Washington, and third was Missouri.

Junior Advisory Committee Election Results

At the Junior Forum on June 26, two new members were elected to the Junior Advisory Committee (JAC) to replace outgoing youth committee members Kalli Keen, Area IV, and Matt Mitchell, Area II representative. For Area II, Jason Miley of Ohio was elected. To represent Area IV, Kate Probert, Missouri, was elected. Current committee member David Wilson was also announced as the new committee chairman.

The JAC is the governing body of the Junior Association and oversees the organization’s activities. The committee is elected by the membership at the National Junior Forum, and members serve two-year terms. The committee experience helps Juniors learn about running an organization while strengthening leadership skills.

For more results and scenes from the National Holstein Convention, visit www.holsteinusa.com.

For more information, contact Jim Leuenberger, Communications Manager, at 715-524-5685.

Holstein Foundation Programs Provide Excitement at National Junior Holstein Convention

Brattleboro, Vt. (June 30, 2008)... The National Dairy Bowl and Dairy Jeopardy contests took place at the National Junior Holstein Convention in Wisconsin Dells, Wis., June 23-26. They promote dairy industry knowledge and program participation for Junior Holstein members.

Dairy Jeopardy, modeled after the popular game show, tests individuals’ knowledge of the dairy industry and Holstein cattle. Participants competed in three age divisions – junior, ages 9-13, intermediate, ages 14-17, and senior, ages 18-21. There were 87 participants from 20 states in this year’s contest.

In the junior division, first place went to Caitlin Lopes, Calif., second place was Logan Potts, Va., and in third was Jordan Siemers, Wis. In the Intermediate division, Taylor Pires, Calif., came out in the top spot, followed by Hayley Potts, Va., in second, and Kyle Demmer, Iowa, in third place. Rounding out the day in the senior division was Janelle Hartzell, Penn., in first place, Aaron Palmer, Iowa, in second, and Katie Steinlage, Iowa, in third.

The National Dairy Bowl competition is made up of four-person teams that compete in two age divisions. The junior division, for ages 9-15, had 18 entries this year. The senior division, ages 16-21, also had 18 entries.

In the junior bracket, Wisconsin and California faced off in the finals. The California team, coached by Kirsten Areias, came out as the champions, with the team of Justin Bopp, Rocco Cunningham, Tony Lopes, and Amanda Moretti. This was the state's first National Dairy Bowl championship in the history of the contest. The second place Wisconsin team included Arlisa Landis, Colin Landis, Thomas Larson, and Katie Wendorf, and was coached by Kent Wendorf.

The senior division final match-up came down to two teams that are no strangers to Dairy Bowl finals, Iowa and Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania claimed the champion title, with the team of Elizabeth Cloninger, Dustin Gates, Nathan Ulmer, and Derek Wasson. The team was coached by Dr. Bob Cloninger. The second place Iowa team included Jessie Hammerand, Luke Rauen, Dan Stewart, and Jenn Vander Veen, coached by Marilyn Steffens and Heidi de Gier.

The top three individual scores on the written seating exam are also recognized. In the junior division, California had the top three scores, with Tony Lopes in first, Amanda Moretti placing second, and Justin Bopp in third. Top three scores in the senior division went to Nathan Ulmer, Penn., in first, Curtis Rhoderick, Md., second, and Casey Arlig, N.Y., in third.

Sportsmanship awards are given in each division to teams that demonstrate exemplary sportsmanship throughout the contest. The Iowa junior team received this honor in the Junior division, with team members Rachel Demmer, Jake Mills, Megan Rauen, and Bethany Simon, coached by Marilyn Steffens and Heidi de Gier. In the Senior division, the Washington team claimed the sportsmanship award. The team consisted of Melissa Cook, Shelby Hansen, Briar Jeg, and Brooke Vander Veen, coached by Ann Marie Magnochi.

For more information about Dairy Jeopardy or Dairy Bowl, contact Kelli Dunklee at 800.952.5200, ext. 4124, or kdunklee@holstein.com.

For more information, contact Jim Leuenberger, Communications Manager, at 715-524-5685.

Brattleboro, Vt. (June 30, 2008)…The National Holstein Women’s Scholarship Organization (NHWSO) has announced the 2008 recipients of their annual scholarships. Five $1,500 scholarships were awarded to Junior Holstein members at the National Junior Holstein Convention on June 26 in Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

The 2008 scholarship recipients include: Janelle Hartzell, Pennsylvania; Julia Hudyncia, New York; Malorie Rhoderick, Maryland; Lucas Sjostrom, Minnesota; and David Wilson, Pennsylvania. Twelve applicants were interviewed during the National Convention and judged on their poise, knowledge of the dairy industry and involvement with their farm and communities.

Since awarding their first scholarship in 1980, NHWSO has provided 120 scholarships totaling $130,500. The scholarship fund is supported by a popular silent auction held each year at National Holstein Convention, cookbook sales and charitable donations. For more information about NHWSO, visit www.nhwso.com.

For more information, contact Jim Leuenberger, Communications Manager, at 715-524-5685.

Brattleboro, Vt. (June 30, 2008)…Holstein Association USA recognized several Junior members who breed and own exceptional Holstein cattle at the recent National Junior Holstein Convention, June 23-26, in Wisconsin Dells, Wis. Given in six different categories based on type and production, the awards are designed to reward and encourage Junior members to continue their excellent Registered Holstein breeding programs.

The Breeder of an Excellent Cow award is presented to Junior members who have bred and owned a cow officially type classified “Excellent” on or after January 1, 2006. 2008 recipients are: Chelsea Abbott, Vt.; Frank Behling, Wis.; Christian Donahoe, N.Y.; Samantha Foster, Penn.; Brittnay George, Kan.; Casey George, Kan.; Eric Lawrence, Penn.; Ashley Martin, Maine; Micah Matlock, Ind.; Jason Miley, Ohio; Matt Mitchell, Tenn.; Kayla Moret, Wis.; Amanda Nelson, N.Y.; Chad Nold, Mo.; Tyler Peachey, Penn.; Chris Potts, Va.; Curtis Rhoderick, Md.; Ben Sarbacker, Wis.; Melissa Schuler, Penn.; Kevin Shaffer, Penn.; Lee Slattery, Wis.; Jenna Smith, Penn.; Tobin Stuff, Penn.; Cory Thompson, Penn.; Zachery Welker, N.Y.; David Wilson, Penn.; Holly Wright, Md.; and Hannah Young, N.Y.

The National Breeder of a Multiple “E” Excellent Cow award is received by Junior members who have bred and owned a cow classified Multiple “E” Excellent. The breeders who received this award are: Laura Davenport, N.Y.; Daniel Hardesty, Va.; Danyel Hosto, Wis.; Ashley Martin, Maine; Matthew McEvoy, N.Y.; Travis Nelson, N.Y.; Tyler Nelson, N.Y.; and Malorie Rhoderick, Md.

The National Progressive Breeder Award recognizes cattle bred by Junior members that meet high production and classification standards for their age group. Every cow qualifying receives a star and Junior members acquire a star for each elite cow they have bred. Those accumulating five or more stars over their career receive a plaque at National Convention.

One star winners are Chelsea Abbott, Vt.; Christian Donahoe, N.Y.; Carissa Doody, Md.; Ashley Hartle, Penn.; Jennifer Hula, N.Y.; Jessica Hula, N.Y.; Reid Lundy, N.Y.; Katrina Nunes, Wis.; Daniel Petersheim, Wis.; Heather Petersheim, Wis.; Hayley Potts, Va.; T. Nathan Rhoderick, Md.; Evan Snyder, Penn.; Emily Tudor, N.Y.; and Nicole Wright, Wis.

Receiving two star honors are Emily Achen, Minn.; Robyn Bechtel, Penn.; Chad Currie, N.Y.; Jessica Currie, N.Y.; Kristen Davenport, N.Y.; Charles Hamilton, Wis.; Gregory Lloyd, N.Y.; Patrick Lundy, N.Y.; Zachery Nell, Penn.; Travis Nelson, N.Y.; Elizabeth Sarbacker, Wis.; and Zachery Welker, N.Y.

Three star winners are Jacob Achen, Minn.; Frank Behling, Wis.; Brittnay George, Kan.; Casey Gillis, N.Y.; David Hardesty, Va.; Tera Koebel, Mich.; Jenna Smith, Penn.; and Riley Welker, N.Y.

Receiving their fourth star are Kayla Currie, N.Y.; Laura Davenport, N.Y.; Brandon Long, Wis.; Mark Simon, Iowa; and Clayton Wohlk, Wis.

Five star honorees include Kelly Lee, Wis.; Maureen Lee, Wis.; Justin London, Penn.; Kayla Moret, Wis.; Benjamin Sarbacker, Wis.; Jason Troutman, Penn.; and Bethany Wohlk, Wis.

Receiving six star honors are Jason Miley, Ohio; Amanda Nelson, N.Y.; Tyler Nelson, N.Y.; and Hannah Young, N.Y.

Seven star winners are Danyel Hosto, Wis.; Christopher Potts, Va.; and Holly Wright, Md.

Krysty Kepler, Wis. received her eleventh star.

Fifteen star honorees are Casey George, Kan. and David Wilson, Penn.

Samantha Foster, Penn., received her eighteenth star this year.

The National 30,000 Pound Cow award is received by youth who own a cow producing over 30,000 pounds of milk in 305 days or less, between May 2006 and May 2008. This year’s recipients are: Brad Arthur, Iowa; Chad Currie, N.Y.; Kayla Currie, N.Y.; James Dunn, Penn.; Joshua Dunn, Penn.; Samantha Durfee, N.Y.; Stacy Eash, Ore.; Dustin Fleck, Penn.; Rachel Foster, Penn.; Samantha Foster, Penn.; Matt Henkes, Iowa; Devin Kepler, Wis.; Krysty Kepler, Wis.; Brent Koester, Ill.; Cassy Krull, Wis.; Jordan London, Penn.; Bret Long, Wis.; Kyle Mitchell, Ill.; Laurel Moore, Md.; Alexa Nunes, Wis.; Katrina Nunes, Wis.; Katie Osborne, Penn.; Andrea Pagenkopf, Wis.; Tyler Peachey, Penn.; Randall Post, N.Y.; Jessica Pralle, Wis.; Ryan Pralle, Wis.; Jocelyn Riser, Penn.; Ben Sarbacker, Wis.; Staci Sherer, Ore.; Jennifer Schultz, Penn.; Addie Snyder, Penn.; Evan Snyder, Penn.; Michael Stewart, Iowa; Ashley Stoltzfus, Penn.; Anna Troester, Iowa; Eric Troutman, Penn.; Jason Troutman, Penn.; Clayton Wohlk, Wis.; Holly Wright, Md.; Nicole Yoder, Penn.; Hannah Young, N.Y.; and Andrew Younker, Penn.

The National 150,000 Pound Cow award is given to Junior members who own a cow that has produced over 150,000 pounds of milk in her lifetime. 2008 winners are: Elizabeth Acel, Penn.; Andrew Bechtel, Penn.; Brad Guest, Penn.; Daniel Hardesty, Va.; Leslie Hardesty, Va. Nathan Huser, Wis.; Cassy Krull, Wis.; Eric Lawrence, Penn.; Kelly Lee, Wis.; Brandon Long, Wis.; Amanda Nelson, N.Y.; Tyler Nelson, N.Y.; Tyler Peachey, Penn.; Heather Petersheim, Wis.; Logan Potts, Va.; Ben Sarbacker, Wis.; Matthew Schantz, Penn.; Hannah Smith, Penn.; Jenna Smith, Penn.; and Nicole Yoder, Penn.

The National 200,000 Pound Cow award is given to Junior members who own a cow that has produced over 200,000 pounds of milk in her lifetime. This year’s recipients include: Sean Brown, Wis.; Krysty Kepler, Wis.; Laurel Moore, Md.; Jason Troutman, Penn.; and Holly Wright, Md.

For more information on these awards, visit www.holsteinusa.com.

For more information, contact Jim Leuenberger, Communications Manager, at 715-524-5685.

Holstein Board Holds Summer Meeting

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin (June 26, 2008)....The board of directors of Holstein Association USA held its summer meeting June 22-23, 2008 in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, presided by President Doug Maddox, in conjunction with the National Holstein Convention and Annual Meeting.  

Update on the 2008 Business Plan

During the meeting, staff presented updates on the 2008 Management-by-Objective Business Plan and year-to-date financials.  From January to May, registration totals increased 16 percent from the same period in 2007. Transfers totaled 33,406 so far this year, up 4 percent from 2007. Holstein COMPLETE enrollment continues to grow, with 1,788 herds enrolled, including 215,610 animals. In comparing May 2007 to May 2008, enrollment has seen a 13 percent increase in the number of herds enrolled, and a 19 percent increase in the number of cows enrolled. Classification is seeing growth as well, with the classification team scoring 99,868 animals in 2,435 herds so far this year.

2008 Financial Update

Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer Barbara Casna presented to the directors the Holstein Association's consolidated financial statements as of May 31, 2008 and reviewed the reserve fund report for the same time period. The Association and its subsidiaries show year-to-date profit on operations of $576,000, which is $95,000 more than May 2007. Through the end of May, the Association's operating revenues increased 1 percent to $7,517,000 compared to the previous year.  For the same period, total operating expenses decreased 2 percent to $6,728,000. As of May 31, the reserve fund was valued at $23,684,000.

Bylaw Amendment Proposals

The board reviewed the two bylaw amendment proposals that will be presented to and voted on by the delegate body at the 2008 annual meeting. Bylaw proposal #1, presented by President Doug Maddox on behalf of the board of directors, would allow more members the opportunity to serve as delegates by counting years delegates are elected, whether or not they served, toward their three consecutive years of eligibility and increasing from one to two years the time period before they are again eligible to be elected. It also increases the time period to withdraw from nomination. Bylaw proposal #2, not supported by the board, attempts to restrict AI organizations from changing the common names of their sires.
 
Other Board Action

The board adopted a Conflict of Interest policy for officers and directors.
 
Based on a governance committee recommendation, Executive Director of Association and Processing Services Peter Cole presented a review of the current policy regarding delegate elections and the current governance regions. The board took no action in regard to changing the current system.
 
Resolutions from the Iowa and Minnesota state Holstein associations were reviewed, with five selected to be submitted to the Constitution, Bylaws and Resolutions Committee to be presented at the 2008 annual meeting. The resolutions addressed premises ID, mandatory animal ID, bovine tuberculosis, Johne's disease, and country of origin labeling of agriculture products.

Upcoming Meetings

The Holstein Association board will hold its Fall board meeting November 13-14, 2008 in St. Louis, Missouri, and its Spring meeting March 26-27, 2009 in Brattleboro, Vermont.

For more information, contact Jim Leuenberger, Communications Manager, at 715-524-5685.

Osborn Named 2008 Rumler Scholarship Recipient

Brattleboro, Vermont (June 16, 2008)…Kasey Osborn, Genoa, New York, is the 2008 Robert H. Rumler Scholarship winner. Kasey is currently enrolled in the HEC MBA Program at the HEC School of Management in Paris, France with an anticipated May 2009 graduation date.

“Having an MBA will make a tremendous difference to me as a potential agri-business leader,” Osborn said. “It will create a more global perspective and provide credibility to not only myself, but our industry in general.”

Osborn’s vision is focused on making a positive impact on the dairy industry and he realizes significant changes will be required to make the industry competitive on a worldwide basis. To build on his dairy management and animal health expertise gained in the U.S., he is one of only two Americans in his MBA class, made up people mostly from Europe, Asia and South America.

At age 27, Osborn has achieved academic and professional excellence well beyond his years. As an animal science undergraduate student at Cornell University, his talents were noticed quickly.

“Due to Kasey’s acedemic prowess, he was admitted into Cornell’s School of Veterinary Medicine, the top ranked veterinary school in the U.S., as a third year undergraduate student.” said Michael E. Van Amburgh, Associate Professor, Cornell University. “He is one of less than eight of our undergraduate students in the last ten years to achieve such a feat, and that demonstrates his tremendous intellectual capacity and maturity.”

After completing veterinary school, Osborn continued on to his true passion in broader dairy management consulting with Linwood Management Group. They hire outstanding professionals to go into currently operating dairy facilities to improve their management, labor, productivity and profitability. On the 2,000-cow dairy, Osborn managed everything from cow care to personnel, while also serving as staff veterinarian.

To further challenge himself, Osborn then accepted a lecturer position at Cornell.  He developed and taught the undergraduate class “Evidenced Based Decision Making on Farms” that integrated financial and production management aspects of dairy farm management. He even worked as a large animal emergency clinician for Midstates Veterinary Clinic on nights and weekends.

Osborn’s quickly advancing career has left many cheerleaders behind. Among them, John A. Noble, Linwood Management Group, said, “It was hard for us to lose a blossoming star, but exciting to be a part in helping to encourage an individual committed to this industry.”

“Ladies of Wisconsin” to Be Offered at National Convention Sale to Benefit Holstein Foundation

Brattleboro, Vt. (JUNE 3, 2008)…The Holstein Foundation is excited to announce the sale of the “Ladies of Wisconsin” original oil painting at the National Holstein Convention Sale on June 24 in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. The proceeds from the sale of this original piece and its prints will be shared between the Holstein Foundation and Wisconsin Junior Holstein Association.

"The sale of this artwork is a great opportunity to support two organizations that have a strong impact on the future of the dairy industry,” said Elmo Wendorf, Jr., former Holstein Foundation trustee and National Convention Chair.  “This is a great opportunity to collaborate with another group that has similar goals as the Holstein Foundation – to educate youth and prepare them for a successful future.”

The original oil painting, #1 giclee, and Artist’s Proof will be auctioned off at the beginning of the National Convention Sale. Standard prints may be purchased during the sale for $50, and artist Larry Schultz will be on hand to sign prints purchased that evening. After the sale, signed and numbered prints may be purchased for $100, and standard prints will be available for $50.

 “Ladies of Wisconsin,” by noted Wisconsin artist Larry Schultz, features several prominent cows that have been developed in the state over the past several decades. Cows featured in the painting include: Crescentmead Rotate Amanda, D-R-A August, Gene-Acres Felicia May Fury, Golden-Oaks Mark Prudence, Gray View B D Crissy, Jan-Com Fond Matt Matilda, Krull Broker Elegance, Plain View Inga, Sher-Est S-Wind Saturday-ET, St Croixco Lad Nina, Stookey Elm Park Blackrose-ET, Townson Elevation Lindy, Vandyk-K Integrity Paradise, and Whirlhill Q Rag Apple Ariel.

The Holstein Foundation will also be hosting an online art sale from July 1 to August 1,
featuring the #2-#10 giclees and #1-#10 signed and numbered prints. Visit the Holstein Foundation website, www.holsteinfoundation.org, for more details.

The Holstein Foundation would like to thank Holstein World and WestfaliaSurge for their sponsorship of this project.

For more information on this exciting opportunity, contact Lindsey Worden at 800.952.5200, ext. 4096.

The Holstein Foundation, headquartered in Brattleboro, Vt., is a 501(c)3 organization founded in 1989. The Foundation’s cornerstone program for young adults is the renowned Young Dairy Leaders Institute (YDLI). Current programs targeting youth ages 9-21 include the popular Dairy Bowl and Dairy Jeopardy competitions. The Holstein Foundation also focuses on youth education and outreach activities, offering free workbooks, a yearly newsletter, and ribbons for local shows, just to name a few.

Holstein Association USA, Inc., www.holsteinusa.com, provides products and services to dairy producers to enhance genetics and improve profitability–ranging from registry processing to identification programs to consulting services. The Association, headquartered in Brattleboro, Vt., maintains the records for Registered Holsteins^SM and represents more than 30,000 members throughout the United States. The Association is also leading the initiative for national animal identification through the National FAIR program.