52 ND ANNUAL AGA NATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS Convention

The 52nd Annual American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) National Convention kicked off December 7, 2022, in downtown Louisville, Kentucky. AGA members and Gelbvieh and Balancer® enthusiasts from across the country convened to conduct business of the association, gain knowledge on industry related topics, and enjoy networking with fellow producers.

The event opened Wednesday afternoon at the opening general session which featured the president’s address by 2022 AGA President Klint Sickler, and the state of the association address by Megan Slater, AGA executive director. The afternoon was also filled with committee meetings including the breed improvement committee meeting where attendees were joined virtually by Dr. Bob Weaber, AGA genetics consultant. Dr. Weaber gave a presentation on beef x dairy systems as well as the importance of data collection including use of proper disposal codes and reproductive data, maternal trait development and the evolution of the stayability EPD. In addition, Dr. Weaber spoke on how utilizing genotypes on the entire cow herd can help provide more informed breeding decisions.

To wrap up day one, members gathered on the top floor of the Hyatt Regency

Louisville for an evening social and great view of the city.

Day two began with the Kentucky Agriculture Spotlight where attendees heard from two of Kentucky’s agriculture leaders. Keith Rogers, chief of staff for Kentucky’s Commissioner of Agriculture Ryan Quarles and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture began the morning speaking about Kentucky’s long history of agriculture within the state. Dave Maples, executive vice president of the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association then spoke about the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association unique ground beef program.

Later in the morning, convention attendees “saddled up” and loaded tour buses for the Kentucky Derby Museum and Churchill Downs, home of “the greatest two minutes in sports”. A guided tour of the grounds included a history of the race, dating back to 1872, and unique traditions that remain a part of the race today. Time to explore the two-story Kentucky Derby Museum and lunch at the Derby Café rounded out the convention tour for the day.

Jam-packed with education and information, Thursday also offered attendees the opportunity to learn from industry leaders, Jordan Thomas, Aaron Burke, and Josh White. The trio addressed reproductive efficiencies, adding value to feeder calves, and the importance of beef quality assurance. Each panelist presented individually and the event concluded with a panel, moderated by Dave Maples, that answered audience questions.

A convention favorite, the bull pen session, was back this year and gave attendees the opportunity to socialize over dinner and drinks in a casual environment.

Members wrapped the week on Friday with the remaining committee meetings followed by a short-term economic outlook sponsored by the American Gelbvieh Foundation (AGF). Friday also included educational workshops and the AGA Annual Membership Meeting where board elections were held. The convention drew to a close with an awards banquet to honor recipients of the Breeder of the Year, Commercial Producer of the Year, and Hall of Fame awards. Winners of this year’s AGF Scale and Rail Contest and Steer Challenge were also announced during the banquet.

A memorable time was had and all departed with the excitement of the 53rd Annual Convention to be held in Omaha, Nebraska, November 29-December 1, 2023.