Jarrid Herrmann, Cherokee Sales, Co.; Anton Hermes, Hermes Livestock. Hereford Youth Foundation of America Scholarship Presentation & NJHA Awards Luncheon
National Hereford Queen Interviews
The Value of Genotyping with Neogen
Kenny Stauffer, Director of Key Accounts
Expanding the Certified Hereford Beef® Brand
Ernie Davis, CEO, Certified Hereford Beef
Break
Cow-Calf Monitoring with Merck Animal Health
Dr. Jason Nickell, DVM, Ph.D., DACVPM-Director
Celebrating Our Wins
Kevin Ochsner, President, AgCellerate
National Hereford Women Annual Meeting
NJHA Meet Up: Building on Community and Connection
American Royal Supreme Champion Junior Female Selection
National Hereford Show | Hale Arena, American Royal Complex
National Hereford Queen Selection | Hale Arena, American Royal Complex Coronation will take place prior to the champion bull drive
Make it Count
Every day and every calf. Each moment and decision.
They all add up to current and future opportunities, which shine bright for the Hereford breed as increased commercial use drives growing demand.
You see it in the increasing number of baldy females grazing America’s pastures. You hear it in industry conversations expressing the need for more maternal heterosis in the U.S. cow herd. Hereford opportunity will accelerate even more as producers begin rebuilding the nation’s beef cow herd.
American Hereford Association (AHA) members continue to earn more opportunity by maintaining Hereford strengths — docility, fertility, feed efficiency and longevity — while making extraordinary gains in the breed’s carcass quality.
year, 103 adult producers and National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) members enrolled 2,379 head, gaining valuable insights for themselves and the breed.
American Hereford Association members continue to earn more opportunity by maintaining Hereford strengths — docility, fertility, feed efficiency and longevity — while making extraordinary gains in the breed’s carcass quality.
— Jack Ward, AHA executive vice president
Twenty-four years ago, the breed’s average marbling EPD was 0.06. Today it is 0.13. The latest set of steers from the National Reference Sire Program at Olsen Ranches, Harrisburg, Neb., graded 100% Choice and Prime: 51% Prime and 98% in the upper two-third of Choice or higher. These steers were sired by 14 different bulls and out of straightbred commercial Hereford cows. Their feedlot performance was exemplary with average daily gain of 4.3 pounds and an adjusted feed-togain ratio of 6.1 pounds of feed per 1 pound of gain.
In the same vein, participation in the Hereford Feedout Programs continues to grow. This past fiscal
The AHA continues growing meaningful programs and conducting practical research that serve the needs of Hereford breeders and commercial users of Hereford genetics. In fact, many of the objectives outlined in the organization’s five-year strategic plan have been accomplished during the first three years. The strategic plan vision is as simple as it is bold: Establish Hereford genetics as the essential component of the U.S. beef cow herd.
All are invited Hear about all of this and more during the AHA Annual Membership Meeting and Conference in Kansas City, Oct. 24-27. This year’s Educational Forums (Oct. 24-25) include the opportunity to obtain or renew Beef Quality Assurance certification, updates from AHA research projects and interactive marketing discussions.
We also will celebrate the achievements of AHA and NJHA members. The newest members to the Hereford Hall of Fame and Hall of Merit, and the Commercial Producer of the Year will be introduced during the Annual Membership Meeting Saturday morning, Oct. 26. NJHA members will be recognized for excellence in the Fed Steer Shootout at the awards luncheon Friday (Oct. 25), where the Hereford Youth Foundation of America will also award scholarships. You will find the complete schedule and details in this Annual Meeting Preview, along with profiles of the six AHA Board candidates and Q&A with the candidates. Candidates prerecorded their speeches, which you can view at Hereford.org/events/AnnualMeeting. You will find a list of voting delegates at the same location, and in this meeting preview. Delegates are required to attend the Annual Meeting, but voting will be done electronically. Ongoing breed progress stems from breeder commitment and willing involvement. It also is due to strong, consistent breed leadership. All of this is on display when breeders gather to share insights and learn from industry experts and each other. Please plan to join us for the event to learn, network, celebrate and “Make it Count.”
— Jack
Ward, AHA executive vice president
2024 Annual Membership Meeting and Conference
Join us Oct. 24-27 at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown.
All American Hereford Association (AHA) members are invited to the 2024 Annual Membership Meeting and Conference, and the national Hereford show at the American Royal. This event is an opportunity to network with Hereford breeders and enthusiasts from across the U.S. and other countries.
The AHA is hosting the event — “Make it Count” — at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown Hotel in Kansas City, Mo. It will feature Educational Forums, an industry trade show, a scholarship and awards luncheon, the AHA social and the Annual Membership Meeting. The weekend will conclude at the American Royal complex for the Ladies of the Royal Sale and the national Hereford show. Members are welcome to tour the AHA headquarters Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 23, to visit with staff.
Thursday, Oct. 24
The festivities begin Thursday morning at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown with the first session of Educational Forums taking place at 9 a.m. Registration opens at 8 a.m.
Friday, Oct. 25
The Educational Forum resumes Friday morning at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown with the first session beginning at 7:30 a.m. The trade show opens at 7 a.m. The Educational Forum sessions break from noon to 1:30 p.m. for the awards luncheon, where National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) Fed Steer Shootout winners will be recognized, and the Hereford Youth Foundation of America (HYFA) will award scholarships. National Hereford
Queen interviews start at 1:30 p.m. The final Educational Forum session will be at 4:15 p.m. The National Hereford Women (NHW) Annual Meeting begins at 5 p.m. The AHA Board of Directors will also host The Gathering, a social, from 5-7 p.m. The NJHA Meet-up: Building on Confidence, Community and Connection, will be 5-6:30 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 26
Breakfast will be served at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, followed by the AHA Annual Membership Meeting at 8 a.m., including the annual AHA report. Hall of Fame and Hall of Merit inductees, Century and Golden Breeders, and the Commercial Hereford Producer of the Year will be recognized during the Annual Meeting. Association members will select up to 153 delegates to conduct the Association’s business and elect three new directors to serve on the Board. The six 2024 candidates are:
Northeast: Steve Lorenzen, Chrisman, Ill.
Northwest: Danny Fawcett, Ree Heights, S.D.; Grant McKay, Marysville, Kan.; Jim Williams, Kearney, Neb.
Southeast: David Burns, Pikeville, Tenn.
Southwest: Don Brumley, Orovada, Nev.
Candidate profiles can be found on Pages 4-7. The list of delegates begins on Page 12.
American Royal events
The Ladies of the Royal Sale will be at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, in the Wagstaff Sale Arena at the American Royal complex. View the entire offering
at HerefordsOnDemand.com. The national and regional show award presentations will be at 1 p.m.
The junior Hereford show, judged by Cory Thomsen, Madison, S.D., will begin at 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, in Hale Arena. The American Royal national Hereford show, judged by Danny Fawcett, Ree Heights, S.D., will begin at 8 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 27, in Hale Arena. For those who cannot attend, show results will be available online at Hereford.org.
The National Hereford Queen will be crowned before the selection of the grand champion Hereford bull.
RSVP
Be sure to RSVP to the Annual Membership Meeting and Conference online. The educational sessions, trade show and the national and regional award presentations are free for all AHA members and guests to attend. Please assist the AHA in planning for this event by submitting your RSVP at Hereford. org/events/Annual-Meeting.
Event locations
Hotel headquarters: Kansas City Marriott Downtown 200 W 12th St. Kansas City, MO 64105
American Royal complex: 1701 American Royal Ct. Kansas City, MO 64102
AHA headquarters: 11500 N. Ambassador Dr., Suite 410 Kansas City, MO 64153
Educational Forums
Thursday, Oct. 24
Cattlemen’s Education BQA Training Session
9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Josh White, National Cattlemen’s Beef Assn.
A.J. Tarpoff, DVM, Kansas State University
Here’s an opportunity to earn or renew your Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) certification. New information includes the latest vaccination information, biosecurity planning tips and resources, and data from the recent National Beef Quality Audit.
Marketing the Breed 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Mark Core, Executive Vice President and CMO, Vermeer Corporation
Take a deep dive into the concepts and tools that can take your operation’s marketing to the next level, while amplifying a unified Hereford breed message.
Master Your Marketing and Advertising Skills
1:45 – 3:30 p.m.
Session 1: Creating a Digital Experience
Social media is evolving and continues to be effective for both organic and paid reach to potential customers. Learn how to get the most out of Facebook and Instagram and tips to create a content calendar.
Session 2: Capturing Eye Catching Imagery
Discover how to elevate your phone photography and videography skills, with some photography basics, along with editing tips for social media.
Session 3: The Value of Print Advertising
Hear about what makes a powerful print ad, then weigh in with your thoughts during this interactive opportunity.
Make Marketing Count
3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Mark Core, Executive Vice President and CMO, Vermeer Corporation
Conclude the afternoon’s focus with insights to creating a cohesive marketing plan for your operation and a positive experience for your customers.
Friday, Oct. 25
Earning the Right to Win
7:30 – 8:15 a.m.
Kevin Ochsner, President, AgCellerate
Strategy is nothing more than “earning the right to win.” Hear how the American Hereford Association’s dynamic strategic plan coupled with current industry dynamics are positioning the breed, and its breeders, to win — both today, and in the future.
Latest Developments:
Breed Improvement
8:15 – 9:30 a.m.
Shane Bedwell, COO and Director of Breed Improvement, AHA
Learn about emerging results from multi-year research projects, and what lies ahead for genetic evaluation and selection as genomic technology evolves.
Adding and Retrieving Hereford Value
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Moderator: Trey Befort, Director of Commercial Programs, AHA
Panelists: Lee Mayo, HRC Feedyards, LLC; Garrett Parsons, Midwest PMS, LLC; Jarrid Herrmann, Cherokee Sales Co.; Anton Hermes, Hermes Livestock
Each sector of the industry offers opportunity to reap more reward from Hereford genetics. This panel of experts will share some of the ways they add value for themselves and their customers.
Expanding the Certified Hereford Beef® (CHB) Brand
2 – 3 p.m.
Ernie Davis, President and CEO, Certified Hereford Beef
Certified Hereford Beef’s new CEO shares perspective on what sets CHB apart among premium beef brands and how it will take the next step in gaining market share.
Cow-Calf Monitoring with Merck Animal Health
3:30 – 4:15 p.m.
Jason Nickell, DVM, Ph.D., DACVPM-Director
Learn how innovative technology can help improve health outcomes.
Celebrating Our Wins
4:15 – 5 p.m.
Kevin Ochsner, President, AgCellerate
Hereford breeders should be proud of the accomplishments they have achieved and the victories they have won. Come celebrate the breed’s success and harness that momentum to fuel future growth and progress.
2024 Board Candidates
Introducing the six Hereford breeders competing for a spot on the American Hereford
Don Brumley
Brumley Farms
Orovada, Nev. 209-479-0287
donbrumley1989@ gmail.com
David Burns
Burns Farms
Pikeville, Tenn. 615-477-5668 burnsda2@gmail.com
Don Brumley
Don Brumley owns and operates Brumley Farms in Orovada, Nev. A Hereford heifer Don purchased as an FFA project turned into a registered Hereford operation that has been in business for more than 50 years. Don and his wife, Skeeter, share the farm’s responsibilities with their kids: Kari; Brooke and her husband, Ryan; and Bryce and his wife, Tayler. Don and his wife have five grandchildren. All of the Brumley children were active members of the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA), participating in the first combined Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE). Brumley Farms sends a truck and trailer to the JNHE each year to help the family’s customers and junior members in Nevada travel to the show.
Brumley Farms consists of 100 head of registered Hereford cows and an alfalfa hay operation. They market their top heifer calves and select embryos in two online sales each year. The family also consigns to the national Hereford sales in Kansas City, Mo.; Reno, Nev.; Denver, Colo.; and Oklahoma City, Okla. They use embryo transfer (ET) programs and genomics to continually improve the expected progeny difference (EPD) profiles of their herd. Brumley Farms works to continue raising quality cattle, while keeping both phenotype and genotype in mind.
Don graduated from California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), in San Luis Obispo, Calif., in 1980 with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business. While at Cal Poly, Don was a member of the livestock judging team, coached by Bill Jacobs, a Hereford enthusiast.
Danny Fawcett
Fawcett’s Elm Creek Ranch
Ree Heights, S.D. 605-870-6172
danfawcett869@ gmail.com
Brumley Farms is a lifetime member of the American Hereford Association (AHA). Don has served as a voting delegate at many of the past AHA Annual Meetings. He has also served as a director on the California-Nevada Hereford Association and Western States Hereford Association boards. For the past several years, Brumley Farms has been a part of the Hereford Youth Foundation of America’s (HYFA) Foundation 1 Campaign. Don and his family have and will continue to exhibit Hereford cattle at national shows. The family is proud to have raised multiple national bull and female champions. Some of their most memorable moments are being named premier breeder and premier exhibitor at numerous national shows.
Don currently serves as a volunteer firefighter for the Orovada Fire District and as the chairman for the Orovada General Improvement District. Prior to moving to Nevada, Don was a board director and chairman for Stanislaus Farm Supply.
Candidates Seeking Election
Hereford Association Board of Directors. Scan the QR code to see their videos.
David Burns
David Burns is a third-generation farmer from Pikeville, Tenn. David, along with his wife, Katie, and their daughter, Helen, own and operate Burns Farms. David serves as the farm manager at Burns Farms, home to one of the largest registered Hereford herds in the Southeast. Burns Farms currently runs 750 cows on 3,000 acres. The operation has four sales each year, where they sell around 150 bulls and females.
David’s entire family is involved in the management and day-to-day operations at Burns Farms. David’s wife works to promote the operation through marketing and social media efforts. Helen helps check cows and tag calves. David’s sister, Sarah, and her family assist with freezer beef and live sales on the farm. Both of David’s parents are involved in the family business and are a vital part of the operation’s success.
David received his bachelor’s degree in animal science from Middle Tennessee State University. Then, he went on to Michigan State University, where he obtained a master’s degree in reproductive physiology.
David grew up showing Hereford cattle. He has served on the Tennessee Hereford Association (THA) board of directors and as president. While president, one of David’s goals was to merge the THA with the Tennessee Polled Hereford Association, and that goal was achieved. After the successful merger, he continued to serve as vice president.
Currently, David is an active member of the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association. Burns Farms hosts multiple informational field days each year along with collegiate judging team workouts and agricultural farm tours. In 2013, David was named the Tennessee Stockman of the Year by the University of Tennessee Block and Bridle Club.
Burns Farms has been raising Hereford cattle since the operation was established in 1952. Today, David focuses on providing quality bull selection for the family’s customers while increasing genetic diversification in their area.
Steve Lorenzen Lorenzen Farms Chrisman, Ill. 217-822-2803 lf3@ecicwireless.com
Grant McKay GLM Herefords Marysville, Kan. 308-470-1190 glmherefords@ bluevalley.net
Jim Williams Valley View Cattle Co. Kearney, Neb. 308-222-0170 jimwilliams335@ gmail.com
Danny Fawcett
Fawcett’s Elm Creek Ranch (FECR), Ree Heights, S.D., is owned and operated by Danny Fawcett and his family. Danny’s wife, Kyla, owns Focus Marketing Group that specializes in livestock marketing. She helps FECR market their seedstock and brand the ranch. The Fawcetts have two children, Hollis and Ivy, who are both involved in the family ranch. Danny’s mom, Cheryl, is a partner on the ranch and handles the accounting side of the operation. Kristin and Weston Kusser also partner with the Fawcett family and call FECR home.
FECR calves around 1,000 cows each year, most of them registered Herefords. Most of the cropland is utilized for feed, but they also grow cash crops, such as corn, wheat and soybeans. Every October, FECR hosts a female sale where they offer 15 to 30 head, with the bulk of them being sold to South Dakota Junior Hereford Association members and to others across the country. The Fawcett family also sells around 100 bulls and a potload of elite baldy heifers each February in their annual production sale. FECR is currently working to develop yearling heifers to be sold as bred heifers using Hereford and Angus genetics in this process.
Danny says the goal of FECR is to continue to stay relevant in the Hereford breed by producing genetics that can be used by seedstock and commercial producers. Danny hopes to continue making decisions that will keep FECR headed in the right direction.
Danny attended South Dakota State University, where he studied animal science and agricultural journalism and marketing. Recently, he held a position on the South Dakota Hereford Association (SDHA) board of directors for six years. During his time on the board, SDHA reached another level, as the directors connected seedstock and commercial cow-calf producers with feedlot and packer representatives.
Danny grew up in the Hereford breed, exhibiting at the JNHE himself. His kids currently show at the JNHE and other national shows. Aside from his kids’ involvement, Danny has judged national shows across the country.
Currently, Danny sits on the South Dakota Beef Breeds Council where he helps to promote beef in South Dakota. He is a past board member for the Hand County Livestock and Crop Improvement Association.
Danny is a past Hereford Herdsman of the Year, as well as SDHA Hereford Enthusiast of the Year. Aside from his awards and recognitions, Danny says his biggest achievement has been positively impacting the juniors involved in the Hereford breed.
Steve Lorenzen
Steve Lorenzen resides on the rural Chrisman, Ill., farm, where he was born and raised. He graduated from Scottland High School in 1970 and received an associate’s degree in agriculture from Danville Area Community College in 1972.
After college, Steve traveled with show strings for Ellis Farms, Natures Acres, Myrtlewood Farms and Glenkirk Farms. He then returned to the family farm and joined the Lorenzen Farms partnership in 1972. Lorenzen Farms is a diversified grain and livestock farm that maintains a herd of 225 cows, including 150 Herefords and 50 Angus; the rest are black baldies.
Lorenzen Farms sells seedstock and show calves; the remaining cattle are sold as feeders by private treaty and through Carthage Livestock Inc. Lorenzen Farms has two cattle sales a year, a production sale in the fall and an online bull sale in the spring. They row crop about 5,100 acres of food-grade corn, seed corn, seed beans and wheat. Additionally, Lorenzen Farms raises and markets purebred Yorkshire seedstock, show pigs and market hogs produced from their 150-sow operation. Steve is responsible for general bookkeeping and accounting, overseeing the cattle operation and during his “vacation time,” he gets to operate a tractor and combine. Lorenzen Farms was honored as the Illinois Beef Association Seedstock Producer of the Year in 2021.
Steve served 31 years on the Chrisman School board, and 14 years as president. He also served as a township board member for Edgar County Farm Bureau. Steve served several terms on the Illinois Hereford Association board and has held many other leadership positions.
Steve and his wife were 4 -H leaders for 33 years. He has also been actively involved in Grace Lutheran Church and has served as congregation president, elder and trustee. His family farm partnership consists of six families that raised 23 children on the operation. They’ve been through the good times and the bad, but he says one couldn’t have chosen a better atmosphere to rear a family than the diversified grain and livestock farm that he’s been blessed with.
Steve and his wife, Vicki, have been married 53 years as of October 2024. They have seven grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Cattle shows are the couple’s vacations; the farm’s first junior national Hereford show was in 1978, and they’ve only missed one event since 1985.
Grant McKay
Grant McKay, Marysville, Kan., owns and operates GLM Herefords with his wife, Linda; daughter, Bailey; and late son, Seth. GLM’s day-to-day operations are handled by Grant and Linda. Bailey works to keep the business in the public eye by managing GLM’s marketing efforts and social media platforms. Two years after moving to the U.S., Grant started GLM with the purchase of one Hereford heifer from G&R Polled Herefords in 1993. Today, GLM partners with Sue Rowland of G&R Polled Herefords.
GLM Herefords currently runs approximately 100 head of registered cows alongside diversified crops and forage acres. Since its start, GLM has relied on the collection and use of performance data tools. GLM uses an extensive AI and ET program to help maintain their focus of raising highquality seedstock cattle. GLM’s goal since the beginning has been to produce high-performing cattle with moderate birth weight and convenience traits that fit the needs of many different producers.
GLM sells their bulls through private-treaty sales. The operation’s females and steers are all sold privately. GLM has consigned to the Ladies of the Royal sale and currently consigns cattle to the Nebraska Cornhusker Classic, National Western Stock Show Herefords in the Yards Sale and the Generations in the Making online sale. GLM was named the Kansas Polled Hereford Association New Breeder of the Year in 2000.
Grant earned his associate’s degree in applied science from Cloud County Community College in Concordia, Kan. He is an active and past member in multiple Hereford associations, both in America and Canada. In the past, Grant served as a board director for the Nebraska Hereford Association, and he and Linda were advisors for the Nebraska Junior Hereford Association. Grant served as a chairman for the 2012 JNHE, held in Grand Island, Neb. Aside from Hereford associations, Grant has been active in multiple livestock and cattlemen’s associations.
While growing up in Canada, Grant gained extensive industry experience working for several prominent Canadian Hereford breeders. His work at WTK Polled Herefords, Circle D Polled Herefords and Haroldson’s Polled Herefords helped him build a solid foundation of knowledge. Currently, Grant works for Ag Sale Day. He credits his management skills and industry knowledge to the many different operations where he has worked along the way.
Jim Williams
Jim Williams and his wife, Sheila, raise registered Hereford cattle at their operation, Valley View Cattle Co., in Kearney, Neb. Jim’s history in the Hereford breed goes back to 1960, when his grandfather, Harry, purchased his first registered Hereford bull.
Jim’s career path has led him down many roads in the Hereford breed. Majoring in animal science, he attended The Ohio State University and jumped headfirst into the cattle business. After graduation, he spent eight years between Lone Star Hereford Ranch in Texas and EE Ranches in Mississippi.
In 1992, before the AHA merger, Jim began working as a field representative, covering Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri and Arkansas. Three years later, post-merger, he assumed the role of vice president of supply with Certified Hereford Beef® (CHB). During that time, Jim helped develop relationships with cattle feeders, working hard to ensure Herefords found a seat at the table in the commercial marketplace.
Through the ’90s, Jim worked closely with Olsen Ranches in Harrisburg, Neb., to develop a process to quickly recognize Hereford sires with genetic merit. That initial data collection laid the groundwork for the National Reference Sire Program.
After a stint of working in feedyard-packer relations, he returned to Hereford. In 2001, Jim resumed his role as the vice president of supply for CHB and worked to promote Hereford beef. Jim, along with many others at CHB, helped the brand make significant strides. The network of feeders pursuing Hereford genetics broadened, and the Hereford Verified® program was developed.
In 2009, Jim returned to the fed cattle sector, working in third-party research for animal health companies. In 2013, he accepted a new challenge and began working as a cattle buyer for Greater Omaha Packing (GOP).
Jim was a useful asset to GOP, helping grow two USDA recognized branded beef programs that both highlight Hereford genetics, 1881 Omaha Hereford™ and Omaha Classic Hereford Beef ™. Successfully creating programs like this was not easy, but Jim has always believed in connecting people within the industry. Leveraging his relationships, Jim aided in placing Hereford and Hereford-influenced calves for cattle feeders looking to take part in GOP’s value-added programs.
Jim is the current head of cattle procurement and a member of the senior management team at WR Reserve in Hastings, Neb. He plays a major role in upholding WR’s goals of providing consumers with the best product, while working to double harvest capacity by 2026. His passion has been, and always will be, promoting the Hereford breed and the cattle industry. Jim is active in his community and volunteers at many local 4-H and youth livestock events and is a member at the Kearney eFree Christian Church.
Q&A with the Candidates
The six AHA Board of Directors candidates respond to three questions regarding their candidacy.
Q: Why are you running for a position on the American Hereford Association (AHA) Board of Directors?
Don Brumley
I am truly honored to have been nominated to run for the AHA Board of Directors. I have been a delegate at the Annual Meeting for the past 25 years and have looked forward to being involved in electing our Board members. We have been raising Herefords for more than 50 years and make a living from production agriculture. We raised our kids through the junior program, starting with the first joint Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) 25 years ago. I would be an asset to the Board with my experience in selling and showing cattle at national shows and sales, having a spring and fall online sale, being a Foundation 1 donor and participating in the National Reference Sire Program (NRSP).
David Burns
I am running for a position on the AHA Board of Directors because I am deeply passionate about Hereford cattle and the breed’s future. As a third-generation cattle farmer, this position isn’t just business — it is personal. My family’s legacy reaches beyond Burns Farms. My family has worked for generations to provide exceptional Herefords to work for cattlemen across America. I believe that my experience, knowledge and dedication to the breed make me well-suited to contribute positively to the Association’s goals and the goals I hope to promote. I am committed to advocating for the Hereford breed, supporting its breeders and ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of the Hereford cattle industry. I am eager to collaborate with fellow Board members to make meaningful contributions to our community.
Danny Fawcett
First of all, it is a great honor to have been asked by the AHA nomination committee to run for the AHA Board of Directors, and it is an opportunity that I do not take lightly. Herefords have been in my blood for generations, and for me to have the chance to represent Fawcett’s Elm Creek Ranch, the South Dakota Hereford Association (SDHA) and all the members from across the country on a national level is truly humbling. With a lifetime of raising Hereford cattle, I have knowledge of the breed from multiple avenues: from seedstock, backgrounding bull customer cattle, and developing and marketing commercial females, to selling heifers to our youth to become projects to get them involved in the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) and help them create and build a cow herd. This background provides me an understanding of many facets of the breed and this organization, and I wish to utilize these experiences to continue the growth and the legacy of the Association and the Hereford breed.
Steve Lorenzen
First, it is an honor and humbling to be nominated to run for the AHA Board by the people who are members of the nomination committee. Second, the Hereford breed has played a major role in my life and that of my family, and it’s time for me to give back. Third, I’ve served on numerous boards over the years, I’ve been in contract and budget negotiations, referendums and building construction. I have no axes to grind, and I am eager to listen and get up to speed so that I can be an asset to the current Board.
Grant McKay
Being asked to run for the AHA Board of Directors is an honor and privilege. I stand for the motto, “If you truly believe in something, you should support it to the fullest.” Our families have been raising Herefords for three generations, through the ups and downs of the breed. Having seen all facets of the Hereford
industry, while working alongside another prominent breed, I believe I am an asset that will strengthen the position of the Hereford breed for the future. For future generations to enjoy and profit from the Hereford breed, we must continue to build on our market share by highlighting our value to the commercial cow herd.
Jim Williams
I am running for the AHA Board because I want to give back. The Hereford breed has provided opportunities and guided my career path. Serving as a Board member is one way that I feel I can attempt to repay the Hereford breed for the opportunities I have been afforded over the years. I also believe, with the wide range of industry experiences I have had, that I can bring a different perspective when tackling the issues at hand.
Q:If elected, what are three goals for your tenure on the AHA Board?
Brumley
Three goals that I have are:
No. 1 - To keep expanding the Certified Hereford Beef® (CHB) program and identify the factors that are slowing progress. We need to keep expanding markets and using more than one packer to allow access into new markets. Once we expand the demand side of CHB, the supply side will benefit by more Hereford-influenced cattle entering a premium market.
No. 2 - Genomics are extremely important in determining the EPD (expected progeny difference) profile for our cattle. We need to increase the accuracy of our EPDs. The cost of genomic testing is staggering, whether you are a small or large breeder. We need to reach out to other labs that are capable of genomic testing and at least research if there is a competitor that can complete our genomics more affordably.
No. 3 - The future of the Hereford breed depends on our youth and the
next generation of Hereford breeders. The NJHA is simply the best junior association of any breed. We need to expand on more educational programs that would encourage the expansion of youth projects into adulthood so that they can become the next generation of Hereford breeders.
Burns
My first goal will be: market expansion. Let’s explore new markets and opportunities for Hereford cattle. We can increase demand and open doors to new avenues for growth. Expanding the market for the Hereford cattle breed involves several strategies. We need to start at the feeder calf level and work to create equality at the sale barns. It is a misconception that the red hide is not as profitable. If we can work to educate cattlemen across the country, no matter their breed, on how to utilize Hereford genetics to better their herd, then we can help them bring the best to the sale barns.
My second goal will be to promote innovation. I will advocate for embracing new technologies and practices that enhance the Hereford breed’s genetic potential, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of modern livestock management. We need to promote and provide education on the importance and usage of genomics and EPDs. If all cattlemen, from the feeder calf level to the registered level, understand how to pair and utilize these numbers for best breeding practices, then we can grow our standards at all levels.
My third goal is to increase youth involvement. The future of our Association lies in the hands of our youth. I’ll champion programs that inspire the next generation of Hereford enthusiasts, ensuring a bright and dedicated future for our breed.
Fawcett
I think it is important to know that I approach this opportunity without a personal agenda but rather with open ears to listen to membership and bring those topics to the Board in a professional manner.
However, over the years there are several topics that have been repeatedly discussed while chatting with other breeders and one of those would be genomic testing. We know the importance of this tool and how it can help us to improve our breed. The
problem of cost and turnaround time is always at the forefront of conversation. Knowing that genetic testing in other species can be done at a much quicker pace, I’d like to gain knowledge of the “whys” and “hows” to see if this process can be improved and the expense decreased.
The ongoing goal of the Association and a goal of mine is to increase consumer knowledge about not just the quality of our product but also the quality of people that stand behind the product we produce. A lot of effort is put into advertising within certain sectors of Hereford, such as seedstock producers advertising to out-of-breed cow herds, promoting the added value of the F1. This type of marketing is a necessity, but we need to remember, from the standpoint of increasing demand of Hereford in the big picture, the endconsumer needs to be a high priority as a target audience. Consumers drive demand, starting at the table with a trickle-down effect that ultimately will influence the commercial cow herd’s mating decisions.
Here in South Dakota, the SDHA has done a great job helping those who are raising Hereford and Herefordinfluenced cattle, marketing these calves to be competitive with the straight blacks and out-sell the straight black-hided cattle by organizing a special Herefordinfluenced sale every year. A lot of the time, when Hereford-sired cattle face a lower price tag at local auctions, it is the result of having low numbers limiting buyers’ opportunity to group cattle to fill a load. The SDHA is in the process of setting up more special Herefordinfluenced feeder calf sales, and my goal would be to help areas achieve these types of sales with information and motivation to get things started.
Those would be a few things that I feel need to be discussed. The main goal, if I make it on the Board, is that the Board collectively communicate clearly, discuss respectfully and make educated decisions with the best interest of the entire membership in mind.
Lorenzen
First, in my area, Hereford feeder calves continue to be worth 10 cents less per pound than black-hided cattle regardless of quality. I’d like to see that gap closed. We need to convince the public that our product is equally good.
Second, we need to keep the cost of testing and registration as affordable as
possible, so members will take advantage of the programs offered.
Third, look for ways to erase some of the negativity of eating beef. Can we do more to convince the public that beef is healthy? I’m sure our Board and staff are currently working on those areas, I’d like to hear their opinions and see if there is an area where we can do better.
McKay
Goal 1: To help develop communication tools for breeders and their customers that would assist in strengthening relationships between producers, feedlots and packers. These tools are essential to increase the high value of Hereford and Hereford-influenced cattle.
Goal 2: To continue building upon the strategic plans and the financial status of the AHA for moving the breed forward.
Goal 3: To be available to the membership and make their voices heard in the boardroom.
Williams
One of the main goals I have is providing transparency to the membership. In this age of technology, it seems that there are new opportunities around every corner for us to improve genetic predictability and strengthen our marketing avenues. It is hard to keep up to date on all that is at our fingertips. It is imperative that the Board and staff do their job to educate the membership, and this, in turn, will empower our membership to take advantage of the tools we have available. I also believe that transparency from the Board and staff allows us to better serve the entirety of the membership.
Financial stability of the AHA and all related programs is of the utmost importance to me. With financial stability, we can better unleash the full power of the programs we’ve invested in to give Hereford cattle an advantage. More specifically, making CHB a monetarily self-sufficient entity will allow it to be a more prosperous program and not a burden to the AHA.
And finally, I will make it a priority to forge industry relationships. Hereford breeders are resilient and will not waiver in their pursuit of genetic and phenotypic excellence. However, making sure our industry allies are aware of the progress we continue to make is important. As a Board member, I will ensure that the collective Hereford voice is heard in every facet of the industry.
Q:In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge(s) the AHA will face over the next 10 years? How can the Board prepare for and overcome that challenge(s)?
Brumley
There are two major challenges that the AHA will be faced with over the next 10 years. The first is the red hided and white-faced discount in the commercial markets. I understand that regionally, there are some successful Herefordinfluenced feeder sales, but they are for a limited number of cattle. We need to expand on the sales that are successful and organize Hereford-influenced feeder sales at sale barns across the country. The second challenge is continued growth in the CHB program. We need to increase the demand side of CHB by getting into more grocery stores, restaurants and food service companies with the superior product that we have to offer. We need to explore the possibilities of using multiple packing houses for CHB to gain access to new markets.
Burns
The negative press against the agricultural industry, including the beef industry, is something to push against. We need to spend time promoting the primary education of agricultural science and its importance to America. I hope to increase awareness and build a foundation of promoting agriculture and the beef industry to increase sustainability over the next decade.
Fawcett
Hereford cattle have gained substantial momentum within my lifetime not only in the commercial sector but also in the circle of junior project popularity. The challenge is to keep momentum. We need to continue to push onward and upward to keep Hereford cattle relevant. It is important to utilize genomics, EPDs and Whole Herd Total Performance Records (TPR™) to increase carcass values and predictability without sacrificing true performance and eye appeal. At the end of the day, these momma cows that are built on the bases of longevity and phenotype will keep demand in play. Those momma cows that are sound, functional, with added longevity and high-accuracy
EPDs will generate a premium in all scenarios. One of the biggest challenges we face short-term is decision-making when looking for the next AI sire, to make sure phenotype and longevity are not overlooked for outlier EPDs. We need cattle with carcass quality, but we also need to be keeping Herefords good phenotypically.
The NJHA is on fire! The JNHE, Faces of Leadership and the Fed Steer Shootout are incredible opportunities for the young people in this breed to learn and begin networking with their contemporaries. These events have a gravitational pull that draws kids in from all over the country. The challenge here is to keep these kids involved in the Hereford breed as they transition into adults. Within the last couple years, the dynamic duo — Amy Cowan and Bailey Clanton — have started an event labeled “Bridging the Gap” during JNHE, where kids can visit with professionals from different aspects of agriculture. I would like to see more emphasis on those professionals being representatives of businesses tied directly to Hereford. The Board could help accomplish this.
The biggest hurdle the agricultural industry might face within the next 10 years is government regulations. The best way to handle this will be to provide accurate information to offset finger pointing from misinformation.
Lorenzen
The biggest challenge moving forward is government regulations, whether it be water issues or cattle emissions. There are also groups that would like to control our consumption of red meat or even eliminate meat from our diet. All cattle associations will need to work together for beef to exist and prosper.
McKay
I believe that there are a variety of challenges facing us as a breed and industry.
The first challenge I see is maintaining our market share in the industry. Our Association will need to ensure we have the next generation educated to select Hereford cattle. As we look to the future, we can all see that the number of producers is declining, while the age of producers still in ownership roles on ranches and farms is increasing. Second: technology; in order to continue to move forward we must stay ahead
of technology as there are constant changes in the ways in which data is collected and how it is used. Keeping the cost affordable for all sizes of breeders will help keep the entire breed moving forward.
Williams
Keeping Herefords involved in the conversation will be the biggest challenge we face over the next 10 years. It is no secret; we are again in a phase of cow liquidation of the national beef herd. Ten years ago, in the cattle cycle, we retained females and started to rebuild. As a result, the producer sought better genetics and the data points to it. Choice and higher beef grading increased nearly 11% on average from 2015 to 2020. In the current phase of herd rebuilding, I would expect to see a push for better genetics as well. This typically leads to genetic consolidation.
This should not surprise us that we are paralleling history. The American consumer demands consistency when purchasing beef, and the feedyard demands predictability on the cattle they purchase to feed.
Telling the Hereford story and articulating the advantages of the Hereford breed to all segments of the cattle business is critical. Make no mistake; it is imperative that we work to improve Hereford cattle in every generation. We can tackle the coming issues by staying actively involved in industry trends and discussions, while looking to maximize Herefords in a way that is economically quantitative. As opposed to being reactive to new trends we see in the cattle business, a proactive approach from the Board and staff will position this breed in the driver’s seat.
Meet the National Hereford Queen Candidates
Five young women will compete for the title of 2024-25 National Hereford Queen.
Nataleigh Belcher
Nataleigh Belcher, Twin City, Ga., is 18 years old and a high school senior. The current Georgia Hereford Queen is a member of 4-H, FFA and Future Business Leaders of America, in addition to volunteering in her community. She serves as secretary of the Georgia Junior Hereford Association. Nataleigh plans to major in agricultural education and minor in animal science at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College after high school graduation.
“The National Hereford Queen is a symbol of grace and honor,” Nataleigh says. “She is an ambassador who is passionate about the Hereford breed and what it has done for the beef industry. She serves as an inspiration to cultivate the love of agriculture for future generations.”
Avari Schroeder
A 19-year-old sophomore majoring in animal science at Iowa State University, Avari Schroeder, Sumner, Iowa, currently serves as the Iowa Hereford Queen. She is involved in a broad variety of organizations, from serving as an intern at the 2024 National Western Stock Show to being a member of the Iowa State meat judging team and other university clubs. She is a director on the Iowa Junior Hereford Association board.
“The National Hereford Queen is one of the most essential advocacy roles for the American Hereford industry,” Avari says. “The queen has many duties and responsibilities to fulfill during her reign. The first is advocacy; the queen’s responsibility is to advocate her passion and knowledge for the Hereford breed online, in presentations, articles, socials and national shows.”
Naomi Sinnamon
Naomi Sinnamon is a 19-year-old sophomore at Ivy Tech Community College, pursuing a degree in agriculture. The Kokomo, Ind., native currently serves as the Indiana Hereford Queen and is a senior director on the Indiana Junior Hereford Association board. She has attended the Faces of Leadership and BOLD conferences, along with being an active 4-H and FFA member.
“The National Hereford Queen is a very important part of the advocacy and promotion of the Hereford breed,” she says. “This position involves attending numerous shows, sales, and other various events to represent and educate others about the significance of the breed. The queen acts as an ambassador for this breed.”
Mary Warden
Mary Warden, Bolivar, Mo., is 20 years old and a sophomore at Missouri State University, studying agricultural education. The current Missouri Hereford Queen recently earned her American FFA Degree and is a member of multiple on-campus clubs and organizations and serves as president of the Missouri Junior Hereford Association.
“The role of the National Hereford Queen is to be one of the faces of the Hereford breed,” Mary says. “Her role is to serve and promote the breed in all aspects. The National Hereford Queen should not just be an advocate for the Hereford breed but for the agricultural industry as a whole.”
Abbey Wohleb
Abbey Wohleb is a 17-year-old high school senior from Whitney, Texas. She has been a National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) member since 2014, and currently serves as the Texas Hereford Queen and as a board member for the Texas Junior Hereford Association, along with being actively involved in her FFA chapter. Abbey plans on pursuing a preveterinary major after her high school graduation.
“The National Hereford Queen is a prestigious role that embodies the values, heritage and ambitions of the Hereford breed community,” she says. “This position requires a passionate advocate who can effectively promote the breed, represent its interests and cultivate a positive image within the agricultural sector and beyond.”
Voting Delegates
Each state Hereford association elects delegates to represent their association at the American Hereford Association Annual Meeting. Delegates vote on the candidates vying for positions on the Board of Directors. Below are this year’s delegates.
Alabama
Randy Price
C&H Farms
Opelika
Arizona/California/Nevada
Don Brumley
Brumley Farms
Orovada, Nev.
Steve Lambert
Lambert Ranch
Oroville, Calif.
Mark St. Pierre
Pedretti Ranches
El Nido, Calif.
Arkansas
Robin Anderson
Anderson Ranch
Omaha
Colorado
Ken Coleman
Coleman Herefords
Westcliffe
Hampton Cornelius
La Salle
Florida
No delegates nominated.
Georgia
Jonny Harris
Greenview Farms Inc.
Screven
Idaho
Guy Colyer
Colyer Herefords
Bruneau
Katie Colyer
Bruneau
Sam Shaw
Shaw Cattle Co. Inc.
Caldwell
Illinois
Noah Benedict
Benedict Hereford Farm
Dewey
Tom Boatman
Perks Ranch
Rockford
Joe Ellis
Ellis Farms
Chrisman
Roger Jennings
Jennings Land & Cattle
Palmyra
Mark Stephens
Stephens Hereford Farms
Taylorville
Indiana
Andy Beck
Beck-Powell Polled Herefords
Bainbridge
Jill Duncan
Able Acres
Wingate
Lee Elzemeyer
Elzemeyer Polled Herefords
Richmond
Bruce Everhart
Everhart Farms
Waldron
Iowa
Bill Goehring
Goehring Herefords
Libertyville
Craig Jackson
Buell F. Jackson & Sons
Mechanicsville
Marilyn Lenth
Lenth Herefords
Postville
Chance Wiese
Wiese & Sons
Manning
Matt Woolfolk
MRW Herefords
Adair
Kansas
Oliver Beall
Broken B Herefords
Natoma
Craig Beran
B&D Herefords
Claflin
Tom Granzow
Granzow Herefords
Herington
Gus Gustafson
Gustafson Herefords
Junction City
Kevin Jensen
Courtland
Grant McKay
GLM Herefords
Marysville
Brandon Oleen
Oleen Cattle Co.
Falun
Kevin Schultz
Sandhill Farms LLC
Haviland
Kentucky
L.W. Beckley
Beckleys Herefords
Irvine
Steven Green
Munfordville
Austin Matheny
Mays Lick
Tim Wolf
Wolf Farm
Alexandria
Lousiana
Dennis White
Homerun Herefords
Slaughter
Riley White
Slaughter
Michigan
Heather Breasbois
Breasbois Farms
Merrill
Scott McDonald
Ye Ole McDonalds Farm
Grand Rapids
Minnesota
Ross Carlson
Carlson Farms
Murdock
Jerry Delaney
Delaney Herefords Inc.
Lake Benton
David Kitchell
DaKitch Hereford Farms
Ada
R.J. Orsten
Cardinal Creek Cattle Co.
Willmar
Mississippi
Brett Douchard
Bayou Pierre Farm
Wesson
Ryan McGuffee
McGuffee Polled Herefords
Mendenhal
Joe Waggoner
Waggoner Cattle Co.
Jackson
Missouri
Kevin Johansen
JD Bellis Family Herefords
Aurora
Marty Lueck
Journagan Ranch - Missouri
State Un.
Mountain Grove
Travis McConnaughy
WMC Cattle Co.
Wasola
Jim Reed
Reed Farms
Green Ridge
Makayla Reynolds
Huntsville
John Ridder
Falling Timber Farm
Marthasville
Glen Waters
Waters Farms
Norborne
Montana
Mark Cooper
Cooper Hereford Ranch
Willow Creek
Jack Holden
Holden Herefords
Valier
Fred McMurry
McMurry Cattle Co.
Billings
Bruce Thomas
Thomas Herefords
Gold Creek
Dale Venhuizen
Churchill Cattle Co.
Manhattan
Nebraska
Doug Bolte
Blueberry Hill Farms Inc.
Norfolk
Joe Brockman
Lawrence
Dave Goertz
Double Heart Diamond Cattle
Brock
Brett Nelson
Nelson Herefords
Broken Bow
Art Olsen
Olsen Ranches Inc.
Harrisburg
Ron Schutte
Alfred Schutte & Sons
Guide Rock
Russ Tegtmeier
Clarence Tegtmeier & Sons
Burchard
Joe Van Newkirk
Van Newkirk Herefords
Oshkosh
Jim Williams
Valley View Cattle Co. Kearney
New England
(Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont)
