From the Office Manager

Welcome readers of the 2023 California Holstein Association Holstein News annual magazine! Hard to believe it’s already June… it’s been a busy and enjoyable first half of the year!

We kicked off 2023 with a ‘destination’ State Convention in Reno, which proved to be a fun change and excellent venue. The sale was well attended and supported by consignors and buyers, and post-Covid youth participation is on the rise. Although the State Show had a late venue change, it was a success for all- with great quality and numbers. The Youth Challenge Contest included more juniors who enjoyed friendly competition with the best young dairy showmen from around the state. A huge thank you to all of the members & volunteers who assisted with these events, and gave their time and efforts in support of our organization. Thank you also to our allied industry sponsors for their continued support.

The following pages showcase the excellence and diversity of Holstein genetics in our state, and the people behind the far-reaching success of our local Holstein industry. It is my pleasure to be involved in this organization and to be part of this ‘Holstein Family’. The key to what makes our industry and association special is the people involved. Their passion, family values, hard work and camaraderie exist no matter where you travel. Because of the black and white cow, we have all been fortunate enough to make friendships near and far. It is with these invaluable relationships that we enjoy the Holstein business.

The California Holstein Association’s goal continues to be to advertise and promote our members’ Registered Holsteins to enthusiasts locally, around the country and internationally. We aim to help members capitalize on the consistent added value Registered Holsteins provide in this always evolving industry. With this in mind, services are available to aid in advertising for sales and events- we invite you to inquire further.

The future of our club is bright- as the California Junior Holstein Club encourages youth and develops skills for them to become leaders in the Holstein and agriculture fields. The programs we offer help shape these enthusiastic young people into confident, articulate ambassadors for the dairy community. From the responsibilities of raising show animals, to knowledge and competitiveness gained in dairy bowl and dairy jeopardy, poise in public speaking and networking at events, our junior members have the confidence and talent to go far in whatever they pursue. As this magazine gets printed, 12 juniors will be travelling to compete and represent CA at the National Convention in Kentucky! In mid-July a large group will be learning and having fun at Cow Camp hosted graciously by Cal Poly faculty & students.

This magazine is available online year round on our website www. caholstein.com and distributed throughout the year nationwide. Additional copies are available from the office upon request if you have an opportunity to share our publication with visitors. Thank you to Julie Ashton and Kathleen O’Keefe’s team at Cowsmopolitan as publishers and designers of this year’s premium magazine.

I invite each of you to take part in our various activities in the upcoming months, and I look forward to working with you all alongside our Board of Directors. Please don’t hesitate to contact me should you have any questions about our Association, or would like to get involved. Follow the California Holstein Association on Facebook, Instagram and the club website to stay current on events and news, and in turn, feel free to share your Holstein news with us as well!

Best wishes for the year ahead!