The Importance of Volunteering

One of the best feelings a person can have is selflessly helping someone or donating their time to an organization close to their heart. Throughout the past several years, I have discovered how truly wonderful this feeling can be. From working at a local pantry to Badger Dairy Camp to the Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin Youth Leadership Derby to serving as a member of the Junior Activities Committee, I have thoroughly enjoyed every opportunity to volunteer. In my opinion, there are three main aspects to volunteering that I enjoy the most.

By definition, volunteering is giving your time to help others. Volunteering is your chance to give back for everything that people have given to you. It is also a way to selflessly give up a part of your day to make the community better. The people that you are helping greatly appreciate it. After your experience with them, they might just want to volunteer too.

You learn something new every day… As a volunteer at Badger Dairy Camp or Cow Camp, I never stopped learning. There is always something new in the industry. What better chance is there to ask one of the leaders in the dairy industry a question? Apply it to your own situation, seize the opportunity to ask questions, and at the very least get their opinion.

The last aspect, and maybe my favorite part of volunteering is having fun and making new friends. I’ll never forget some of the stories from camps that I have attended. Not to mention that you will make lifelong friends. Some of my favorite memories are from those warm starry nights around the fire.

Whether you’re donating a couple hours to ring a bell for the Salvation Army or just giving your last fifty-two cents to the Ronald McDonald House, every little bit is appreciated. Next time that you’re put in the situation to volunteer, I hope that you think about all the people that you can help. It’s definitely worth it.

Happy Holidays From the JAC's,
Mitch Kappelman

Youth Mentorship Program Provides Valuable Learning Opportunity

The Wisconsin Holstein Association strives to promote the Wisconsin Registered Holstein breed, as well as its breeders and owners. This promotion begins in the young people in this industry, and giving them every opportunity to reach their potential. To aid in the career education of our youth, WHA has developed the Youth Mentorship Program. Youth have the opportunity to visit volunteer hosts and learn a desired aspect of the business.

The following note is from Tiffany Langteau, a student at UW-River Falls studying Agriculture Education and Dairy Science. Tiffany had the chance to ride with a Holstein Association USA classifier, and came away with some excellent perspective:

"Hi everyone, my name is Tiffany Langteau and I am a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. My major is Agriculture Education and Dairy Science. I am getting to that age where everyone is asking me the same question; what do you want to be when you grow up? I have answered that question the same as I always have: I want to be a Holstein classifier. With that answer I tend to get blank looks or looks of amazement. After the blank looks, I get the question of what is or what does a Holstein classifier do. Coming from a registered dairy farm I thought I had a good idea of what the job entailed. After this summer I realized I had a lot to learn.

This summer I was very lucky to have the chance to job shadow one if the best in the business, Mr. Willis Gunst. Mr. Gunst was willing to let me tag along with him for three days and taught me a lot along the way. When I started this job shadowing I figured I knew what being a classifier was all about. I learned real quick that there is more to that job than meets the eye. To be a great classifier you have to be able to know the linear breakdown like you know the palm of your hand and to be able to break down that cow fast and correctly. I have judged cows for many years and having that experienced helped me a lot, but looking at these cows and being asked questions made me see things that I would normally overlook. Being able to pick out the strengths and weaknesses of a cow is pretty easy but deciding what strengths or weakness that helps her get that score is a bit more complicated. It amazed me that a cow could classify the same score but looked completely different from her stall mate.

Another thing that you have to be good at is explaining why you scored the cow the way you did, and do it so the farmer can clearly see where you are coming from. One of the main objectives of classifying is to help the farmer know what they have to work on with that cow and to know where she excels. You have to explain that very well or you have let the farmer down. Mr. Gunst is very good picking out the key traits and conveying to the breeder why he scored that girl the way he did.

If anyone is remotely interested in classifying I would very strongly advise taking advantage of this program put on by the Wisconsin Holstein Association. This experience showed me that this is what I want to do for a career. I have leaned a ton and can’t thank Holstein Association USA and the Wisconsin Holstein Association enough for making it possible for me and other youth to experience careers that we are interested in."

Junior Convention Reminders

Hello Juniors! I hope you are getting excited for Junior Convention that is coming up fast. It is January 8, 9 and 10, in Stevens Point. This year the convention will be hosted by the Wood County Junior Association. We have several contests for you to compete in as usual and the JAC’s have been busy working to make the convention a success.

Dairy Jeopardy
We will be starting Jeopardy earlier this year in order to finish in time for the farm tours. We are excited for another full, competitive contest. Check the convention schedule for complete details.

Royalty Contest
There is still time to apply for the Royalty contest. One addition the JAC’s made to the contest this year is that every princess candidate must compete in the Senior Speaking contest at convention. Applications for Royalty are due December 1st. If you have any questions contact our current royalty and they will be happy to tell you about their year.

JAC
If you are interested in running for a JA for your district contact your current JA’s in your district or Ashley Yager in the Holstein Office if you would like to put your bio up for the member to read ahead of convention. Being a JAC is a great opportunity to learn more about our association and gain valuable experiences.

WHY Award
There is still time to nominate your county leaders that have been beneficial and helped your club. Applications are due December 1st to the WHA office. This is a way to honor a friend of your county, a junior advisor, or someone who has been of great help to your county with in the past year or years. Our junior association is made of great juniors who are backed by great advisors.

2012 Convention Hosts
We are still looking for a 2012 convention host. This is a great opportunity for a county, two counties, or a district to come together and take a more active role in our Junior Holstein Association.

Looking forward to seeing you all at convention. Have a great end of the year.

Laura Elliott
SE JAC Rep

Brey Family Set to Host State Picnic

The Brey family has their farm looking fantastic and ready to roll for tomorrow's big state picnic! The event starts at 11:00 tomorrow in Sturgeon Bay, with lunch served from noon to 1:30 and a panel discussion at 1:30 p.m.

These Registered Holstein breeders from across the country will share the management strategies that have allowed them to not only survive, but thrive, in our current economy while maintaining focus and pride in their Registered Holsteins.

• Jonathan Lamb - Oakfield Corners Dairy, Oakfield, New York
Jonathan has heavily merchandised his registered Holstein herd at Oakfield Corners Dairy in recent years. The current list of ET calves available from Oakfield Corners numbers more than 400. Jonathan is also a co-owner in his family’s 4,200-cow commercial dairy herd at Lamb Farms, Inc. and serves as a Holstein USA National Director.

• Steve & Cory Gillins - Canyon Breeze, Minersville, Utah
Father and son Steve and Cory Gillins own and operate their 500 cow farm at Canyon Breeze Holsteins and were recently named Premier Breeder at the 2010 Western National Spring Show. Canyon Breeze has its own flushing program and has had over a dozen sires make the active AI lineup in recent years.

• Lance Kamm – Nova Holsteins, New Richmond, Wisconsin
Lance Kamm is a partner in Nova Holsteins with his father, Thomas, and brother, Ryan. The farm is home to 120 cows and an extensive ET program. Nova is a partner in and developer of the extremely popular UFM-Dubs Eroy and her descendants.

Following the program socialization will continue at Cycle Farm with dinner, drinks and music. All are welcome!

There will be food and fun for all! For more details, visit the WHA website at www.wisholsteins.com!


We hope to see you in scenic Door County tomorrow!

Remembering Brian Krull

Brian J. Krull, age 44 of Lake Mills passed away on Thursday August 26, 2010 in an accident on his family farm. He was born on March 11, 1966 the son of Marvin and Mildred (Wagner) Krull of Lake Mills.

Brian graduated from Lake Mills High School in 1984, and furthered his education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Farm & Industry Short Course. Brian fulfilled his lifelong dream of farming at Krull Farms where he worked first alongside his father and uncles, and later side by side with his wife Cindy and their children.

Brian married Cindy Strauss on November 16, 1991 at the Moravian Church in Lake Mills. Brian and Cindy have continued the legacy of the Krull Family Farm in Lake Mills. He had an amazing passion for agriculture, and thus he taught his children values that they could learn in no other way; he knew how it could sculpt a child into a young leader and teach them lifetime lessons. After his family, there was no love more important to Brian than farming. He treasured the planting season and seeing what the labors and tillage of the soil brought to the harvest season. Brian was eagerly awaiting a 2010 record yielding soybean and corn crop. He also loved the registered Holstein cow and the Holstein industry and the many friendships he cherished because of it.

Brian, Cindy and their children have worked hard to breed and develop outstanding Holstein and Jersey cow families and have taken it to a level Brian would have never dreamed possible. Brian was so humbled and appreciative of their successes and knew those successes came from the help and support of others. He reciprocated that support and was a mentor and supporter to many other farmers and youth on the local, state, and national levels.

Brian was a member of the Moravian Church in Lake Mills. He was active in various agricultural and community organizations; the State and National Holstein Association where he served as State President and a National Delegate, a National Dairy Shrine member, President of the Farm & Industry Short Course, a lifetime member of the Lake Mills, Wisconsin, and National FFA Alumni Associations, president of two bowling leagues, and president of the Aztalan-Milford Cemetery Association. Brian was a devoted husband, father, son and brother and he looked forward to camping weekends and vacations with his family and friends.

He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife Cindy Krull of Lake Mills and children Cassy ( 17), Bryce (15) and Carley (12); his mother Mildred Krull of Lake Mills; his siblings: Susan (Richard) Schultz of Chilton, Robert Krull of Nashville, Marcia Krull of Lake Mills, Julie (Kevin) Larson of Viroqua, and Jayne Krull of Sugar Grove, IL; his father & mother-in-law Jim and Kathy Strauss, brother-in-laws Bruce (Tammy) Strauss and Scot (Christine) Strauss, all of Lake Mills; aunts, uncles, and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Marvin Krull.

Funeral services will he held on Monday, August 30, 2010 at the Moravian Church in Lake Mills with the Rev. Bruce Nelson officiating. Burial will be in the Aztalan Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1:00-6:00 p.m. at the Moravian Church in Lake Mills and then again on Monday morning at the church from 9:00-10:45 a.m. with services at 11:00 a.m. Schneider-Michaelis Funeral Home, Jefferson is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorials may be directed to the Krull children's college fund.

For online condolences see www.schneidermichaelisfuneralhome.com/

Brey Family to Host 2010 WHA Picnic

The Brey family of Cycle Farm in Sturgeon Bay will host the annual Wisconsin Holstein Picnic on Saturday September 11th, 2010. The “Picnic in the Peninsula” is sure to be an exciting day for everyone with a packed schedule of events all through the evening. The judging contest, open barn and kids’ games start at 11:00 a.m. up until the program at 1:30 p.m.

Respected Holstein breeders Jonathan Lamb, Steve and Corey Gillins and Lance Kamm will share their thoughts in a panel titled, The Bottom Line of Registered Holsteins Across America. Steak sandwiches, sweet corn and ice cream will be served for lunch and don’t forget to stick around for the evening! A live band, The Modern Day Drifters, will be entertaining everyone for a good time with more food and drinks throughout. Check out the Modern Day Drifters on Facebook for more info. Make it a weekend in the Door Peninsula and we all hope to see you there!

A Note from the Junior Activities Committee

Wow, this summer has gone by fast. I would first like to start off by congratulating all the Juniors who participated at this year’s Championship Show in Manitowoc. It is such an honor to be able to parade your farm’s best animals against the state’s elite animals. Also congratulations to the Juniors who topped the Judging and Classification Contest, and to all who were successful at Junior State Fair.

I would like to encourage every Junior to participate in the Embryo Share Program sponsored by Tom Kestell of Ever-Green-View Holsteins of Waldo, WI. This program is designed to help juniors start or continue to build their registered Holstein herd. Tom is offering genetics from some of the Holstein breed’s elite cow families. To see a list of donor dams available or to download an application, check out the WHA website here.

I look forward to seeing everyone at the State Picnic at the Brey’s family farm on September 11.

Lee Slattery

Champions Named at WI Junior State Fair

Day 2 of the Wisconsin Junior State Fair Holstein Show concluded on Friday, August 6 with the naming of Yearling, Junior, Senior and Grand Champions of the Show. Below are results of the yearling and cow classes, as well as the big winners of the show!

Yearling Champion went to Elizabeth Sarbacker of Verona with her Summer Yearling, Fischerdale SS Excuse. Reserve Yearling Champion was Siemers Goldwyn Goldie-ET, a Winter Yearling exhibited by Jordan Ebert of Algoma. Honorable Mention went to DeForest's Justin Langer and his Summer Yearling, Comb-Haven Luck La Rouge.

Junior Champion honors went to Elizabeth Sarbacker and Fischerdale SS Excuse, while Reserve Junior Champion honors went to Calf Champion, MS Duckett Durham Beauty-ET, exhibited by Calep DeWitt of Clinton.

Senior and Grand Champion went to Siemers Alisha Gold Ava-ETS, a four year old cow exhibited by Crystal Siemers-Peterman of Cleveland. Reserve Senior and Reserve Grand Champion honors were awarded to Shawn Nehls and his senior three year old, Nehls-Valley Ike Annie-ET.

Summer Yearling - Group 1
1. Comb-Haven Luck La Rouge, Justin Langer, DeForest
2. Crave Tstry Jillian 5701840, Roseanne Crave, Waterloo

Summer Yearling - Group 2
1. Fischerdale SS Excuse, Elizabeth Sarbacker, Verona
2. Westphalia Laurin Rose Ave, Austin Moucha, Fond du Lac

Spring Yearling - Group 1
1. MS Blondin Dundee Bree, Chloe Vosters, Freedom
2. Siemers Lightning Hila-ETS, Deanna Zernicke, Bonduel

Spring Yearling - Group 2
1. Walk-Era Kite Dalayna, Kristen Broege, Janesville
2. Ar-Line Roy Sweetness, Jake Schmidt, Bangor

Winter Yearling - Group 1
1. Siemers Goldwyn Goldie-ET, Jordan Ebert, Algoma
2. Rotestown Lou Fushia, Tyler Endres, Lodi

Winter Yearling - Group 2
1. Greenlark G Jasper Lucerne, Monique Levash, Brillion
2. Homtosta Lexicon Ebony, Haley Vosters, Kaukauna

Fall Yearling - Group 1
1. Quad-R Logical Brooklyn, Tanya Smith, Monticello
2. Huibregtse Aspen Glory, Alex Huibregtse, Plymouth

Fall Yearling - Group 2
1. Hi-Lo-Valley Aspen Nikko, Amber Yager, Highland
2. Pfaffsway Aspen Breeze, Larissa Pfaff, Alma Center

Junior Two Year Old
1. Arethusa Mercedes Marcia-ET, Frank Behling, Fox Lake
2. Hartleys Toystory Magena, Hillary Hartley, Soldiers Grove

Senior Two Year Old
1. Kerry-K Goldwyn Precious-ET, Reed Holthaus, Bangor
2. Milgene Advn Jezabel-Red-ET, Brett Hildebrandt, Hustisford

Junior Three Year Old
1. Kranzdale Chelsea Marie, Cierra Ehrke-Essock, Fort Atkinson
2. Tuscobia MK Tribute Cancun, Ethan Dado, Amery

Senior Three Year Old
1. Nehls-Valley Ike Annie-ET, Shawn Nehls, Hustisford
2. Kizzys Lheros Josie-ET, Jared Buske, Brownsville

Four Year Old
1. Siemers Alisha Gold Ava-ETS, Crystal Siemers-Peterman, Cleveland
2. Bohnview Skyfame Sprite-ET, Aaron Bohn, Watertown

Five Year Old
1. Woods-Line Durham Faith-ET, Cody Owen, Pulaski
2. Trent-Valley DD Bella, Justin Langer, DeForest

Aged Cow
1. Rochard-Jordan Snow-Red, Carley Krull, Lake Mills
2. Too-Keen Merchant Abigail, Danielle Brown, Dodgeville

Dry Cow
1. Diamondhead Buckeye Spirit, Shelbie Greidanus, Delevan

Junior County Herd
1. Dane County
2. Fond du Lac County

Senior County Herd
1. Dodge County
2. Jefferson County

Showmanship results from Saturday's contest will be posted soon. Congratulations to all exhibitors on a fantastic Junior Dairy Show in West Allis!

Wisconsin Junior State Fair is Underway

The first day of the Wisconsin Junior State Fair Holstein show is completed. Judge Steve White (Indiana), and his Associate Judge, Carla Stetzer (Wisconsin), watched over 250 calves parade through the ring this afternoon.

Picked as Calf Champion was Ms Duckett Durham Beauty-ET, exhibited by Calep DeWitt of Clinton. Reserve went to Siemers Goldwyn Suzy Q-ET, exhibited by Crystal Siemers-Peterman of Newton. Honorable Mention was Paige Nelson's winter Calf, Ms Nabholz Legndhlm Aqua-ET. Congratulations to these exhibitors.

Other winners of the day were:
Spring Calf:
1. Timlyn T Valiant Brenda, Ryan Smith, Monticello
2. Gen Ter-Raetion A Chablis, Paige Nelson, Ellsworth

Winter Calf, group 1:
1. Siemers Goldwyn Suzy Q-ET, Crystal Siemers-Peterman, Cleveland
2. Katrinas De Sahara Rae, Katrina Nunes, Chippewa Falls

Winter Calf, group 2:
1. Milksource Dundee Lovin, Kara Vosters, Freedom
2. Indianhead Golden Mist-ET, David Pintens, Dallas

Winter Calf, group 3:
1. Ms Nabholtz Lgndhlm Aqua-ET, Paige Nelson, Ellsworth
2. Milksource Laurin Dakota, Haley Vosters, Kaukauna

Fall Calf, group 1:
1. Siemers Laramie Sunnie-ET, Jordan Siemers, Newton
2. Mt Elgin Just Iching, Austin Schmidt, Cascade

Fall Calf, group 2:
1. Ms Duckett Durham Beauty-ET, Calep Dewitt, Clinton
2. Ryan-Vu Sanz Extacy-ET, Brad Warmka, Fox Lake

Fall Calf, group 3:
1. Ridge-Place Tstory Skittle, Jackie Meyer, Unity
2. Pfaffsway Aspen Titanium, Larissa Pfaff, Alma Center


Friday's show starts bright and early at 8:00 a.m. with all yearling classes. Holstein cows will show starting about 2:30 p.m. with selection of Supreme Champion following all the breed shows.

Young Adult Committee Takes Annual Brewer Outing

The Young Adult Committee took its third annual outing to Miller Park on Sunday, July 25 to watch the Brewers last game of a series vs. the Washington Nationals.

It was a fantastic summer day in Milwaukee. Over 40 young adults from across the state jumped on two different bus routes to meet in Milwaukee. WHA Board of Director member Todd Stanek and Board Member and YAC Chair Bob Traynor were the designated "grill masters", shown in the photo here. They donned fancy cow-themed aprons and grilled some fantastic burgers and brats.

The game kicked off at 1:10 and the Brewers took an early 2-run lead in the first inning. One of the highlights of the afternoon was one of our own, Joe Mumm, scrambling for a foul ball that landed in our bleacher section! Our group was very excited to have the opportunity to go after a foul ball - the first chance we've had in our three years at the ball park!

After a Brewer victory the buses were packed and headed for a safe trip home. Thanks to all who came out for the game and a special thank you to our Grill Masters Bob and Todd, as well as Nick and Jessica Sarbacker, Marc & Tracy Nelson, and Corey Geiger and Krista Knigge for the use of your pop-up tents and grills!

Hope to see you all again next year!

Geiger Elected At Large Director

“I got hooked on Minnesota!” After ballots were counted, I was elected to the at-large position on the Holstein USA Board of Directors at the 125th National Holstein Convention in Bloomington Minn. Thank you to those that supported my campaign with encouraging words. By being elected for one of the three at-large director positions, not only do I represent Wisconsin breeders, but all Holstein members across the county. So, no matter your location, if you have comments or improvements to our Holstein programs, please feel free to contact me. I look forward to serving the membership and the Holstein cow during the next three years.

During the July 27 and 29, the three newly elected directors: Pete Waterman, Maine, Gayle Carson, Tennessee, and myself will be in Brattleboro, Vt., for new board member orientation. It should be a great experience learning the inner-workings of Holstein USA. I will share more about that trip in a later blog.

Corey Geiger

Greetings from Minnesota!

The National Holstein Convention is underway in Bloomington, Minnesota and Wisconsin Juniors have already been busy and even seen some success! Katie Wendorf of Vernon County and Cody Getschel of Polk County placed first and third respectively in the Intermediate Dairy Jeopardy competition and Kelly Lee of Jefferson County placed third in the senior division in Saturday’s competition. Also, Saturday many Wisconsin juniors participated in the speaking contest and discussed a wide range of topics. They will learn how they placed at tomorrow’s Junior Award’s Luncheon. Distinguished Junior Member Semi-Finalists from Wisconsin, Ben Kinnard of Door County, Laura Elliott of Dane County, Jacob Brey of Door County, and Maureen Lee of Jefferson County participated in interviews that will help determine the top six that will be named Finalists. They will learn whether they receive the highest honor bestowed upon a National Junior Holstein member on Tuesday. YDJM Finalists Nic Schuster of Fond du Lac County, Cassy Krull of Jefferson County, and Charlie Hamilton of Grant County were honored at a lunch and will also be honored on Tuesday.

Yesterday both junior and adult members took in tours of some of Minnesota’s premier Registered Holstein Farms including Sapa Ska Holsteins, Floralawn Holsteins, Flower-Brook Holsteins, Raylore Holsteins, and Glenmark Genetics and Bonnie Mohr’s Studio. It was a long, fun-filled day that concluded in a beautiful trip to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum to "Experience Minnesota". Members participated in an Amazing Race, went on guided tours, and enjoyed a great dinner among friends.

Today is dairy bowl day! The senior team from Door County and the junior team from Vernon County will compete with the nation’s best for the dairy bowl National Championships. We wish them luck! Tonight many members will also take in the National Convention Sale and beach-themed dance at the hotel. Also today, the adults began their annual meeting activities that kicked off with an early bird presentation on genomics.

Tomorrow several Wisconsin Juniors will receive production and breeder awards, Mitch Kappelman will run for At-Large JAC, and DJM Finalists and YDJM Finalists will be recognized. Some members will attend a Twins game with convention attendees while others will head home across the border after saying goodbye to new and old friends.

Danielle Brown
WI JAC Vice-Chair

By Corey Geiger, Holstein USA Board Candidate

National Holstein Convention is less than a week away. Minnesota has a great convention planned from June 26 to 29. During the Monday and Tuesday business meetings, there are four elections taking place for directors on the national board, and I am very excited about the potential opportunity to serve breeders on the Holstein USA board of directors as at-large director. During the 125th National Convention, I look forward to listening and talking to breeders about their concerns about the Association and the dairy industry as a whole.

Our industry has many challenging issues facing us. Milk marketing and financial stability are the most pressing issue facing all dairy producers. There are a number of milk price stabilization proposals. The challenge for us is to build consensus with a majority of producers and elected officials to move our industry forward. And we need to do it soon in order for producers to regain profitability. Currently, cheese inventories are at a 26-year high. That’s right; we now have more cheese on hand than at any time since Reagan served at President. We are in a crisis.

Within our breed, genomics have become a lighting rod. Since its introduction in April 2008, this new technology has moved from eager anticipation to an area of downright frustration for some breeders. Registered breeders have relied on genetic sales to bolster farm incomes in economic downturns. Now imputed proofs and a two-index system created in April (traditional versus genomic) have lead to some difficult marketing situations. As breeders, we need to let all industry leaders know our concern so our interests are better served in the future.

For those serving as delegates, I would appreciate your support and vote. I have a unique ability to work well with others and bring about consensus. Well versed on many industry matters, my hands-on experience on our family’s Ran-Rose Dairy Farm in Reedsville, Wis., combined with my industry experience would make me a solid board member. I look forward to visiting with you in Minnesota.

Cow Camp 2010

Hello all! Well I think it is safe to say that Cow Camp 2010 was a success! We had over sixty campers attend camp this year, which was held at Beaver Creek in Chippewa Falls. When the campers arrived at camp they were invited to play a game of kickball after putting their things away in their cabins, and later enjoyed a meal before their evening of stations. The evening stations included nutrition, calf care, reproduction, and classifying, which were put on by a great bunch of volunteers. The JAC boys were put in charge of dinner that night, so the menu included brats and hamburgers. Later that night we had two campfires and the campground offered an observatory for the kids to go and enjoy. We sang songs and made S’mores and had fun hanging out with our new and old friends.

The next morning we were up and at it early and the boys took the campers on a hike while the JAC ladies made breakfast. That agenda for the day included some more stations, which focused on showmanship, and more importantly the famous shaving cream fight. Now, this was my first cow camp and I’ve heard about the shaving cream fight but let me tell you, it is way more intense than any thing you have imagined. I thought I was safe in my JAC coat and jeans, but by the end of the fight I had shaving cream inside my coat, shoes, ears, nose, and mouth, nothing and no one was safe.

I’d like to send out a big thanks to all of our wonderful volunteers, my fellow JAC members, Chris, and the campers. I hope all of you made some great memories and I am already excited for next year’s camp! See you at the shows!

Katie Wallenhorst, SW District JAC

Cow Camp is Coming!

Hello again Wisconsin Holstein members! Cow camp is coming up fast and it looks like it’s going to be a good one. We have a great facility in Beaver Creek, and this year we will have an opportunity to look through the observatory, weather permitting. We also have some great workshops this year, led by leading professionals in the industry. We also will have a quiz bowl competition and some bonfires at night for songs but more importantly..SMORES!

Registration is Saturday at 11:00 and the fun will continue until Sunday at 2:00. The activities are going to be fun and informational this year so look forward to them. Remember if you are coming to bring extra clothes and bug spray. If you’re not coming, there will be another cow camp next year. In the next few months, the show season begins as well so get involved as we will be having a new showmanship contest. For more information on upcoming events, check out the junior journal.

Hope to see you at camp!
Willie Coyne

A Note from the WHA Board President - Jim Rickert

Congratulations to Josetta Halbur, who was the winner in the April Trivia Contest. The Outstanding Boy and Girl who are now married are Chad Ryan, 1996, and Amy Hagenow Ryan, 1998. Keep reading to find this month’s question.

A big thank you is extended to committee members, show sponsors, juniors, volunteers and everyone else who helped make this year’s Spring Show very special. Congratulations to all the award winners. This year’s Treasure Quest was another success. Thank you to all who entered calves, purchased tickets and all tub sponsors. Proceeds will be used for the WHA picnic on September 11 at Brey’s Cycle Farm in Sturgeon Bay.

The WHA District and Championship Show rules and entry form is in this News. Take a few minutes to read the rules; there are a few changes that you should take note of.

Our door is always open to receiving memberships. You must be a paid member to show at the District and State Show. Membership renewals can avoid a $10 late fee by having their renewals sent in by June 1.

This month’s question is: There are many families who have had two siblings named Wisconsin Holstein Outstanding Boy or Girl. Name the family that has had 3 siblings so honored.

Please send your answer by email to: jkrickert@centurytel.net. Each adult or junior, who answers the question correctly by May 15, will have their name put into a random drawing. The winner chosen each month will receive a $10 Culver’s gift card. All junior members who email the correct answer will also receive $10,000 Holstibucks.


Until next time,
Jim Rickert

WHA Princess Attendant Tours Schools, Attends Annual Convention

Hi All-

I am the 2010 Wisconsin Holstein Princess Attendant and on February 16th and 19th I took the opportunity to talk with two 4th grade classrooms from Reedsville Public Schools and four 2nd grade classrooms from Valley View Elementary in Ashwaubenon. I spoke to over 125 kids about our own Holstein cow - what an amazing experience. The kids were awestricken that cows actually go on vacation, dry period. The students were glad that they got three months of vacation, compared to the cows two months vacation. The teachers were very impressed with my knowledge of the Holstein cow and what dairy is all about, not just what is on television shows.

All of the students were guessing how many stomachs a dairy cow had and even a teacher pitched in and was so excited because he thought he knew the answer. Come to find out he was a little off, I can say. I brought all kinds of different things that you would find on a dairy farm, from baler twine to milk replacer, and this I think really helped them realize that if you think of it the kids thought they are kind of like humans. I also brought cheese donated from Henning Cheese, which the kids were most appreciative of. I really had fun with the kids and the more and more classrooms I visit I hope the message does spread that dairy farms are the family farm and not the factory.

Wow, where do I start with the Wisconsin Holstein Adult Convention? Hmm, do I start with Elvis or … well I will start from the beginning. Once I got to convention (getting out of school early and missing U.S. Government is a plus) I was amazed that there was really no sitting around - the adults get right to work with meetings for all of the many various activities that the WHA puts on.

The 1st Annual Futures Sale was a huge hit; the sale averaged $5055. Saturday I gave an address to the President’s Breakfast and then it was off to the spouse’s tour. On the tour, we had the opportunity to tour our own capitol and Olbrich’s Botanical Garden. Then the convention attendee’s toured farms at Opsal’s Ridge and the Lyle and Deanna Opsal and Troy Opsal families, as well as Kellercrest Registered Holsteins, Inc.; and the Tim and Sandy, and Mark Keller family.

At Opsal’s Ridge they had a very nice set-up with a few box stalls which I always like for cows and they recently added on to their stanchion barn which looked very nice. At Kellercrest I really liked their calf set-up which was newly built and they really put some thought into building it. They had drainage for each pen, dividers that could be pulled out to make pens bigger or to clean the pens out easily with a skit steer.

Next was the banquet which was very elegant and much deserved. Honors were distributed for Young Distinguished Breeder to Todd Borgwardt of Sunnyside Dairy in Valders, WI which is from my home county of Manitowoc of which the county is very proud of. Honored with Distinguished Service recognition was Mike Snyder of Baraboo, WI. Receiving the prestigious Distinguished Breeder honors were Allen and Pat Rippchen of Ripvalley Holsteins, Ithaca, WI.

Next was the desert auction which was well…let me say interesting, we raised a gracious sum of money for the scholarship fund which the juniors are much appreciated of, including me. Next came the hypnotist, I tried it but I am glad it didn’t work; you never get sick of seeing it done because it never fails to have a good laugh. Did you know that WHA has their own Elvis and he is actually good? Trust me, he actually sang to me. We also had a very beloved Barney you can not forget and I am sure you will be hearing about these people and may actually get to meet them throughout this show season.

Congratulations to all of the much deserved award honorees at Convention, and I hope to see you all at Spring Show!

WHA Princess Attendant, Cara Biely

WHA Board President Mark Gilbertson's Final Address

When you take on a job either you want it really bad, or maybe it is your time and you should do it. The latter is why I was willing to fill the shoes of president serving Wisconsin Holstein. Following the people that were in this position was not an easy task, but with much help from my fellow board members, the ladies in the Wisconsin Holstein office and my family, I made it through the year.

This past year fits all those years I heard about from my Father—The winters of ’36 and ’51, the drought and depression years in the 30’s. We have lived through similar or even worse winters and times since. Now I have stories to share with futures generations as well.

The good news of Wisconsin Holstein is that membership has slightly increased in 2008 and 2009 and we are even off to a better start than most other organizations in 2010. We have also maintained our Junior membership at right around 1,000 and the Adult membership is about 3500.

And as the financial report indicated, WI Holstein is still in good shape with plenty in reserve and the day-to-day operations being covered by membership and sponsorships. In the end even with a tough economy the WI Holstein Association came through the past year in the black with help from sound financial investments and super support from our sponsors and great volunteers to help all our events be successful.

Our shows are still looked at from all around the country to see who has the next great cow or heifer. We had a successful District Show season—even with combining our show districts in the state, with District 9 going into District 6, and District 11 split between District 1 and District 4. 2009 Spring Show had another great year also. The 50th annual State Show went well, and the hosts, Winnebago County, did a super job with such an important anniversary show. Something new this year we tried, was the Junior Premier Breeder and Exhibitor awards, but we plan to let those two Junior awards be replaced with new Junior bred and owned awards this year.

Treasure Quest is still a very successful support to the WHA picnic. With a summer picnic tried this past year, plans are underway for a fall picnic in 2010 at the Brey Family’s Cycle Farm in Sturgeon Bay. The 2009 summer picnic held at the Wendorf Farm was a nice time and we were able to get employees and state juniors wet in the dunking tank, which proceeds went to the Dodge County Junior Holstein fund.

Wisconsin Holstein did not host a consignment sale this year due to the concerns of the economy. But we have come from no WHA Sale, to looking at 2 WHA Sales in 2010. We are considering a Fall Wisconsin Holstein sale, and as you all know, the YAC group put together a wonderful Futures Sale last night.
This group of young people who organized the sale and are a part of the YAC could be the heart and soul of coming things for Wisconsin Holstein Association—Bridging the juniors and older adults together.

What a great junior organization we have here in Wisconsin. Cow Camp has opened its doors to all dairy youth and they plan to consider this learning experience for the kids. After I attended the Junior Convention this past January, I now know I should have been there a few more times for various reasons. From the enthusiasm of the youth, to the number of events they participate in and the knowledge they have. Let alone the very well dressed banquet they put together – a bit bigger than the adults. I witnessed first hand the abilities of our youth, taking charge of such an event that first looks like it could be mass chaos, but truly fulfills an orchestrated event.

As I spoke to the Juniors at Convention, I encouraged the graduating members to bring their youth and enthusiasm to adult convention. And I told them to bring their parents too – I know the Junior members receive strong support from parents, and it would be great to see them active in the adult association as well.

We are still looking for counties or groups to host adult and junior conventions in the near future. I was proud of my home district juniors for hosting this past convention at the Kalahari—I believe efforts like this will encourage other smaller counties to work together at hosting either junior or adult conventions.

As I reflect back to when I started on the board in 2004, many things have changed along the road. With the advancement of technology, we now have a web site. And this past year, beginning social media networks through the blog and Facebook. The WHA NEWS is still a valuable tool in reporting the upcoming events and those results of past events. Our membership has been a great supporter of the NEWS by reading and advertising in it. The WHA NEWS is still looked for at World Dairy Expo and National Holstein Convention along with other various events that we take it to.

When I started on the board, a past board member reminded everyone to be vigilant of finances and rent out part of our condos due to a small office staff and low income generated. We have come to use both sides of our condo now and added to our office staff.

The 2008 National Convention opened many doors in Wisconsin. The biggest eye opener I had was seeing the amount of people it took to run the event. Volunteers were invaluable. The list of these people would take hours to read, and we appreciate everyone’s efforts. And what a great sale it was too.

Something new we did this past year, was step out and not only promote the Holstein industry in Wisconsin, but also branched out to support the livelihood of the entire dairy industry. At the Dairy Price Stabilization information meeting, we found ways to be a connection to what is happening and letting our membership know quicker. We hope to continue this trend of informing our membership by email, blog or face book.

I would like to thank the state membership for allowing me to become a member of the Wisconsin Holstein board. I came onto this board with four other people who were acquaintances at first, and we have grown to become lifelong friends. I thank these individuals, along with all other fellow board members through out the years for the memories including both the ups and downs. And thank you for selecting me to serve as your president this past year.

I’d like to sign off with a phrase from a very good friend of mine, and who was also well known to many people in the association. As Jack Wier would say, “It’s been fantastic.”

A Note From Your JAC Chair, Robert O'Leary

Hello once again to all WI Holstein enthusiasts! I would like to bring to your attention the creation of the WI Junior Holstein Association Facebook page. On the page you will find upcoming events, photos, and our discussion board. Our goal is to utilize the page to keep our Jr. Members notified about important deadlines and allow members to discuss the happenings of our great state’s Holstein activities. There is also a 50 Holstibuck bonus for joining the group and posting photos or commenting on the wall. All it takes is a couple of clicks and make sure to invite people you know so we can inform them about how to join our association and get involved!

Recently we had our yearly JAC meeting to discuss new ideas and plan for future activities. At this meeting the committee came up with the following new resolutions:

Junior Raffle Ticket Sales
Top county sales cash awards will be removed from the Junior Raffle ticket sales contest and instead the top counties will receive recognition. The reasoning behind this decision was that since we split up the proceeds with the counties more of the money can be returned to those that took the effort to sell the tickets.

125,000lb Production Award
We have decided to discontinue the 125,000 lb production award because we felt that it was repetitive and that the 100,000 and 150,000 lb awards seemed better suited to for our production awards.

Dairy Quizbowl Traveling Trophy
One of the ideas that came up during our meeting was to create a traveling trophy for both the senior and junior teams instead of presenting a “coaches trophy.” This trophy would then be displayed at the dairy bar during our annual convention.

Jr. and Sr. Champion Bred and Owned of the Junior Show
After our very successful caucus the JAC’s have decided to discontinue the Jr. Premier Breeder and Exhibitor of the Jr. Show award and instead will be replacing it with Jr. and Sr. Champion Bred and Owned of the Junior show award. This decision is still awaiting adult board approval.

WHY Friend
First off thank you to all those that have submitted WHY Friend candidates this year. Since we have had so many great candidates we will now be keeping the WHY Friend candidates that do not receive the award in the running for up to three years after the names are submitted. If a candidate moves from the under 5 years of service to the over 5 years of service division, their name will be allowed to change divisions as well.

If you have any questions about these changes feel free to contact me at roleary@wisc.edu or contact the WHA office.

2010 Junior Holstein Convention Comes to a Close

The 2010 Junior Holstein Convention has officially come to an end after a fantastic weekend of contests, recognition and a great effort from the District 3 Junior and Adult Holstein members. Thank you again to those members of Crawford, Iowa, Grant, Lafayette and Richland Counties for hosting a great convention at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells.

A full press release is now available on the Wisconsin Holstein Association website - please visit our Junior Activities link for contest results! Over 500 Junior Holstein Members, volunteers, and parents attended the convention.

We would like to extend a special thank you to those that help make this convention possible. From sponsors, to volunteers, and parents who travel hours with their county groups, it really is all of you that help make this event so successful. We have a fantastic group of Wisconsin Youth who have the opportunities they do because of your generosity and support of the Junior Holstein Association.

If your county is interested in hosting the 2011 Junior Holstein Convention, please contact the WHA office for more information. We are more than happy to answer questions or work with volunteers to find a location for next year.

Again, thank you to all for a fantastic weekend, and we hope you'll visit the Wisconsin Holstein Association web page to check out a complete listing of results! Photos are also posted on our Facebook Fan Page.

Until Next Time,
The WHA Office Staff

Over 500 In Attendance At Wisconsin Junior Holstein Convention

The convention is in full swing with the Senior Dairy Bowl Contest going on right now. In the junior competition this morning there were over 30 teams that competed, the final two teams that will be competing in the final round this afternoon are the undefeated Vernon county juniors and the Polka Dots from Polk County. This afternoon the princess luncheon was held where the Jr. Trip award winners were announced, graduates recieved their pins, and four princess candidates addressed the convention with their final interview questions. The four candidates in the running for the 2010 Wisconsin Holstein Princess and Attendant are Stephanie Nagel, Hillary Hartley, Cara Biely, Teresa Wyss.

Yesterday was a very busy day, it started with registration, getting acquainted with the Kalahari and visit with old friends. Juniors were allowed to enter their photos and crafts in the contest room. Dairy Jeopardy started right away with three content rooms for the Juniors Seniors and Intermediates. We also had several participants in the speaking contest. After that the juniors met for a junior forum and then broke into district caucuses. The night ended with water park fun. Check back for more details later on Award winners, Dairy Bowl Champions, Outstanding Boy and Girl, and Princess and Attendant.

Sincerely your Wisconsin Holstein Princess
Laura Elliott