Official Publication of the American Gelbvieh Association
December 2010
December 2010, Vol. 24, No. 4
Contents contents News 14 Beef’s Hidden Gems By Austin Teeter 15 The Beef Innovations Group By Grant Powell 17 Gelbvieh: Adding Pounds, Adding Profit By Kaisha Jurgens
Sales 34 White Brothers Complete Herd Dispersal 34 Bluegrass Gelbvieh Invitational Sale 34 Seedstock Plus Showcase V & 2nd Annual Customer Appreciation Sale 35 KY-TN Fall Gelbvieh Classic
Shows 36 American Royal Ring of Gold 39 Tulsa State Fair
Departments Features The Passion Lives On – AGA Convention
11 AGA Honors 35+ Year Members 18 Convention Schedule and Registration 20 Voice Your Opinion through the AGA Committee Process 21 AGA Hall of Fame Inductee 21 Member of the Year 22 Introducing the 2011 AGA Board of Directors Candidates President’s Profile
40 An Interview with AGA President Al Knapp
On the cover: ‘Tis the Season. We wish you all a very merry holiday season and a happy New Year! This month’s cover photo was taken by Connor Durham, Piedmont, S.C., and was one of the top three photos in the Editor’s Choice division of the AGJA photography contest held at the 2010 Lone Star Classic.
EDITOR: Jennifer Scharpe E-mail: jennifers@gelbvieh.org PRODUCTION: Katie Danneman E-mail: katied@gelbvieh.org
“Gelbvieh World” (ISSN 1084-5100), is published monthly except for February, June and October for $35 for one year. The American Gelbvieh Association, 10900 Dover St., Broomfield, Colorado 80021-3993.
Periodicals postage paid at Broomfield, Colorado and at additional mailing offices. Postmaster send address changes to: Gelbvieh World, 10900 Dover Street, Broomfield, Colorado 80021
President’s Message Contact Us View from the Office By Frank Padilla From the Shipping Pen News ‘N Notes Bits ‘N Pieces Breeder’s Corner Jr. Voice New Members Places to Be Ad Index
8 10 10 16 12 13 26 33 33 44 45
Make Plans to attend
The National Gelbvieh
& Balancer Sale New time aNd locatioN
Sunday, January 9, 2011 • 1:00 p.m. at the Livestock Center Auction Arena, in the yards (Follows the National Pen Bull Show which starts at 8:00 a.m. in the same facility)
25 Elite Gelbvieh & Balancer Lots Sell Pick of Breeders’ 2009 Bred Heifers Pick of Breeders’ 2010 Calf Crops Pick of Breeder’s Show String Herdsire Prospects Flushes Bred Heifers Open Heifers
2011 National Gelbvieh & Balancer Sale Consignors: 3G Ranch
eaGle pass Ranch
plateau GelBvieh
BaR aRRow cattle co
FlyinG h Genetics
s & s GelBvieh
GelBvieh BaR none Ranch
Judd Ranch inc JumpinG cow GelBvieh
shad & BRandy BeastRom ludemann
BeastRom GelBvieh
ledoux Ranch
thoRtenson GelBvieh
BoehleR GelBviehs
ty klieweR
ButleR cReek FaRms
little windy hill FaRm
cedaR top Ranch
lost RiveR livestock
cRanview GelBvieh
middle cReek FaRms
wes & BRittney BeastRom spenceR
To request a sale book contact
cattlemen’s connection at 1-800-743-0026 or go online at www.cattlemensconnection.com
Cattlemen’s Connection
waRneR BeeF Genetics
Al Knapp
President’s Message president’s message Twas the Night Before Convention Greetings from Kansas, When Steve Munger of Eagle Pass Ranch was president he wrote a poem fashioned off of “The Night before Christmas.” It began “It was the night before Denver,” I was inspired by Steve’s work, and although I am certainly not a poet, I thought I would give it a try. Feel The Passion Twas the night before Convention Dianne Coffman was making the rounds Checking every last detail to Assure the AGA would abound The hotel was most ready Hang the signs remember In hopes the meeting rooms Would fill with many a member Frank Padilla was sleepin sound Snorin a lot With dreams of movin Gelbvieh heifers by the pot The president Al Knapp and wife Were snuggled in the hay He was thinking and Wondering what he should say Down in the lobby There were many a reveler Seeing old friends And meeting the new member Susan Willmon was a worry Her DNA presentation all done Would she be listened to Or understood by even one The Gelbvieh World with pictures and stories Had been mailed With schedules, convention highlights And this year’s agenda nailed Jennifer Scharpe was there, Camera in hand Looking for candid shots Of members to land Show cattle in tie-outs The hill and yard crews arrive Solving the worlds problems And telling of their long drive There was Boehler, and Shearer, Goes, and LeDoux Jarvis, Martin, Warner And Ridinger too
Roger Gatz was on the phone The National Sale his quest Convincing buyers of offers And selling his best Board Candidates: Hart, Flikemma, and Martin Were all on task Thayer, Houston and Stucky were workin on speeches, Members’ votes to ask For the candidates votes to count, Lawyer Edd Pritchett was ready For the last 40 years his Service has been steady Dana Stewart was there Working with the AGA Youth Encouraging them to do their best With good ethics and truth The Board, all present, Soon to dress For pictures and announcements All going to press Dolores was at work Pushing buttons and pulling levers Trying to register That last born show heifer Regional Coordinators, Don, Steve and Brandon Were talking to cattlemen all commercial Bestowing the virtues of Gelbvieh bulls and females Kinda soundin like an info-mercial Patti and Theresa at the table sat Helping check in for convention Always courteous and polite Showing us all the utmost attention It is the AGA’s 40th Anniversary Plenty of sacrifice all to real Hope you are there The Passion to feel
So I am not a poet. But I am passionate. I hope your passion is sparked. It’s been 40 years since the inception of the AGA. We have the best momma cow on earth. Let’s be passionate about the breed and the association. I hope to see you in Denver. Let your Passion show. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus our savior, may I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. The best is ahead, Al | December 2010
AGA Executive Committee President Al Knapp 913/219-6613 (O) 18291 158th St. Bonner Springs, KS 66012 Vice President Jim Beastrom 605/224-5789 (H) 20453 Cendak Rd. • Pierre, SD 57501-6315 Secretary Randy Gallaway 405/649-2410 (H) 15182 N. Midwest Blvd. • Mulhall, OK 73063 Treasurer Mark Goes 402/766-3627 (H) S E Community College, 39414 SW 75th Rd, Odell, NE 68415 Legal Counsel E. Edd Pritchett 405/375-5516 (O) 114 N. Main St. • Ste. 101 Kingfisher, OK 73750
AGA Directors Rob Arnold 701/624-2051 (H) 6700 Cty Rd 19 S • Minot, ND 58701 Brian Dunn 620/549-6516 (H) 707 N Main • St. John, KS 67576 Ken Flikkema 406/586-6207 (H &O) 2 Mint Trail • Bozeman, MT 59718 Jerry Grund 785/891-3765 (H) 2690 Iron Horse Rd. • Wallace, KS 67761 Dick Helms 308/493-5411 (H) 42041 Dr. 728 • Arapahoe, NE 68922 John Huston john.e.huston@gmail.com Bob Prosser 928/289-2619 (O) PO Box 190 • Winslow, AZ 86047 Brian Schafer 888/226-9210 (O) 37740 240th Ave. • Goodhue, MN 55027 Gary Tilghman 270/678-5695 (H) 690 Lick Branch Rd • Glasgow, KY 42141-9409 Dan Warner 308/962-6511 (H) 71628 Rd 425 • Beaver City, NE 68926 Nancy Wilkinson 719/846-7910 (H) 23115 CR 111.3 • Model, CO 81059
All approved AGA Board minutes are available for inspection in the AGA office. Board meeting highlights are available upon request.
Frank Padilla
View from the Office view from the office
Reflecting on the Year - An Association in Action I like this time of the year. It’s the time for reflection upon the past year as well as planning for the New Year. Production records have been taken and submitted. The cows have been pregnancy checked. The final plans are being put together for the upcoming marketing season for both production sales and private treaty transactions. This is the time of year that brings out the creativity and determination to succeed as we appraise the past year and prepare for the next. This is the time that we harvest the fruits of our labor. The National Western Stock Show is the first Gelbvieh event of the New Year. Association business is conducted at the annual meeting. We will honor members who have served and continue to serve the breed through untiring efforts and dedication. Gelbvieh breeders whose membership has endured for 35 years or more will be recognized. Some of the breed’s best will hit the tanbark to be evaluated and to be appraised. The National Sale will be the first Gelbvieh sale of 2011 and often times, sets the tone for upcoming sales throughout the year. The National Sale combined with the Gelbvieh Futurity and first ever Balancer® Futurity allows breeders to not only see but to purchase the breeds most elite genetics. This event is not only about conducting business but also about maintaining and developing camaraderie amongst those who have a common bond. The American Gelbvieh Association exists to enhance the success of breeders and commercial users of Gelbvieh. The fees paid by members allows for that to happen. The value of association brings informational services, marketing and member communication programs for both members and commercial users. The AGA provides informational services in the form of animal registration and ownership transfer. Supplying registration certificates and pedigree information validates the worth of Gelbvieh and Balancer animals. The AGA’s genetic evaluation provides EPDs for 17 traits of economic importance. Tools such as sire summaries, genetic trends, and dam summaries help 10 | December 2010
members make breeding improvements in their herds. By processing performance, carcass, and ultrasound data, breeders are able to evaluate individual animal’s production. Through programs such as Dam of Merit/Dam of Distinction and Gelbvieh Performance Advantage (GPA), members are recognized for producing superior animals. With the website, members and commercial producers have access to EPD information and animal search tools. Registration fees also allow for continued genetic research, the data from which helps breeders and the Board of Directors to keep the breed relevant in the beef industry. The fees assessed provide for a variety of marketing programs and services for Gelbvieh members and commercial producers. The national advertising campaign and state association cooperative advertising programs, promote the benefits and advantages of Gelbvieh influenced cattle. The AGA website provides an array of educational information to both members and commercial users. State association and staff use of the AGA booth at trade shows and industry events promote the breed. Promotional brochures such as the SmartCross® brochure serve as an important educational tool for commercial producers. Marketing services such as the SmartCross and Gelbvieh ear tag programs identify the value of Gelbvieh influenced feeder cattle. The AGA’s website-based feeder cattle exchange as well as bull and female listings helps producers market their animals. With innovative programs like Gelbvieh Profit Partners, breeders and their commercial customers are able to market their Gelbvieh and Balancer feeder cattle. Maternal Edge female sales add value to Gelbviehinfluenced commercial females. The development of leadership and genetic improvement seminars helps members identify direction for their herds and breeding programs. AGA representation at industry meetings and events like BIF and NCBA gives recognition to the breed on a national level. As well, the support of Gelbvieh and Balancer shows spotlights the breed to a national audience. Supporting AGJA
303/465-2333 Main Phone 303/465-2339 fax Director of Administration Dianne Coffman (ex. 479) diannec@gelbvieh.org Director of Breed Improvement Susan Willmon (ex. 484) susanw@gelbvieh.org Director of Breed Promotion Frank Padilla (ex. 480) frankp@gelbvieh.org Director of Communications Jennifer Scharpe (ex. 485) jennifers@gelbvieh.org Director of Member Services Dana Stewart (ex. 488) danas@gelbvieh.org Production Manager/Graphic Artist Katie Danneman (ex. 486) katied@gelbvieh.org Area Coordinator Commercial Marketing Don Danell dond@gelbvieh.org Area Coordinator Commercial Marketing Brandon McEndaffer brandonm@gelbvieh.org Area Coordinator Commercial Marketing Steve Peddicord stevep@gelbvieh.org Customer Services Dolores Gravley (ex. 481) doloresg@gelbvieh.org Patti Showman (ex. 478) pattis@gelbvieh.org Teresa Wessels (ex. 477) teresaw@gelbvieh.org Mailing address: 10900 Dover St., Westminster, CO 80021 General E-mail: info@gelbvieh.org Registration/Electronic Data Transfer: registration@gelbvieh.org Website: www.gelbvieh.org
View from the Office view from the office programs promotes the future of the breed. Arguably the most important area that fees assist in is member and producer communication. The AGA email newsletter provides information on events and pertinent information and is sent to membership twice a month. The Gelbvieh World publication is printed monthly and provides information and a venue in which for breeders to advertise their programs on a national level. The Profit Picture, published in February and October, has an expanded mailing list directed towards commercial cow-calf producers. The “Add Pounds. Add Profit” insert, now printed twice a year, reaches a new audience of potential bull and female customers. New member packets are sent to both senior and junior members providing information about all AGA programs and services. Member manuals, EPD user manuals and various educational and information materials are provided to both members and commercial users. The AGA website continues to see an increase in traffic from people looking for information about Gelbvieh and is being updated and enhanced in order to provide
more information and accommodate the increased traffic. All of the above programs and services are critical in assisting to promote and market Gelbvieh cattle on all fronts. In reflecting back onto 2010, I see an Association in action thanks to the support of the membership and a progressive Board of Directors. A new computer system is in the final stages that will make registering and submitting data easier for members. A new website is near completion which will provide both members and commercial producers more and easier to obtain information. Three area coordinators now work with members and commercial producers in the promotion of Gelbvieh cattle and the various programs of the AGA. A marketing agreement made with LLB/Meyer Natural helps to create pull through demand for Gelbvieh and Balancer feeder cattle, while creating a revenue stream for the AGA. The addition of three Maternal Edge sales provides a marketing opportunity for Gelbvieh females and their producers. The expansion of the national advertising budget has allows for increased promotion efforts. The Kansas City “Create Your Future” seminar provides the opportunity
for members to listen to and interact with some of the industries best minds. The first ever Balancer Futurity will take place at the upcoming 2011 National Western Stock Show. All of these are positive steps and made possible by the participation of members in their association and its services. The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined effort of each individual member. Personally, this will mark the 36 consecutive National Western Stock Show that I have attended as an exhibitor, judge or attendee. The meeting people, seeing the cattle and the relationships built from doing so, I consider invaluable. The victory we call success goes to the best prepared, self taught, responsible person, who sees the opportunity and is willing to seize it. I hope to see you all there and participating in the business and events in celebrating the 40th anniversary of the American Gelbvieh Association. Why not begin your “string” of attending this year? Frank Padilla is the AGA director of breed promotion and can be reached by email at frankp@gelbvieh.org or by phone at 303-465-2333.
AGA Honors 35+ Year Members The American Gelbvieh Association would like to recognize the following breeders who have been active members of the association for 35 years or more. These members will be introduced and honored at the 40th Anniversary Celebration and Social on Saturday, January 8 at 6:30 p.m., during the AGA annual convention. We thank these members for their continued support of the American Gelbvieh Association. ABS Global, Inc., Burlington, Colo. Albers Gelbvieh, Cunningham, Kan. Anderson Gelbvieh, Meadow, S.D. Anderson Ranch—Halsey, Grand Island, Neb. B M Beastrom & Sons, Pierre, S.D. Big Sky Gelbvieh, Zortman, Mont. Bruce & Mary Waymire, Victor, Mont. Busy M Farms, Lawson, Mo. C D Edwards, Vinita, Okla. Carl Foster, Jr., Ardmore, Okla. Cedric C. Raine, White, S.D. Chuck & Kay Struthers, Collins, Iowa Circle K Ranch, Coatsville, Mo. Circle V Farm, Walnut Grove, Minn. Clair & Lois Sauer, Lewiston, Minn. Crescent J Ranch, Melbourne, Fla.
Cruise Gelbvieh, Inc., Walden, Colo. E. Edd Pritchett, Kingfisher, Okla. Eldon & Rhonda Arnold, Aurora, Iowa Elk Creek Ranch, Piedmont, S.D. Elvie Gotfredson, Newell, S.D. Gallagher Rule, Newkirk, Okla. George D. Smith, Roundup, Mont. Gordon C. Philip, Kansas City, Mo. Halligan Gelbvieh Ranch, Bushnell, Neb. Heyward Green Farm, Franklinton, La. Hill Top Acres, Humboldt, Neb. J W Wilson, Mankato, Kan. Jim & Barb Beastrom, Pierre, S.D. Johnson’s Double J Ranch, Yuba City, Calif. Kicking Horse Ranch, Oilmont, Mont. Lawman Farms, Columbia, Mo.
Lazy TV Ranch, Selby, S.D. M C Johnson & Sons, Tilden, Neb. Merlin & Jeanette Peets, Orland, Calif. Naslund Family, Galva, Iowa New Breeds Industries, Inc., Manhattan, Kan. Oswald Ranch, Osceola, Iowa Otter Creek Ranch, Eureka, Kan. Powles Gelbvieh Ranch, Bingham, Neb. Purdy Ranch, Buffalo, Wyo. Roger C. Turner, Lehi, Utah Royal Stock Farms, Huntsville, Mo. Triple N Gelbvieh, Lake Havasu City, Ariz. Valhalla Ranch, Bennett, Colo. Valley View Gelbvieh, Edgerton, Minn. Walnut Crest, Columbia, Mo., Wendell Roseland, Gilman, Iowa Gelbvieh World | 11
News ‘N Notes news ‘n notes Gelbvieh Foundation print to be unveiled at convention The American Gelbvieh Foundation will unveil a new Gelbvieh print at the 2011 AGA annual convention. The Foundation has commissioned renowned livestock artist C.J. Brown to do a special Gelbvieh print in honor of the AGA’s 40th anniversary. The print will feature a herd of Gelbvieh cows and calves in a pasture setting. The print is sure to appeal to all Gelbvieh enthusiasts. The original print will be auctioned at the 40th Anniversary Celebration and Social on Saturday, January 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Red Lion Hotel in Denver, Colo. Additionally, the Foundation will auction off print numbers 1, 2, and 3 of the limited series that same evening. Orders for the remaining prints in the series will be taken after convention through the AGA office.
Make your reservations now for AGA convention The Red Lion Hotel on Quebec Street is the Gelbvieh headquarters hotel during the AGA annual convention and National Western Stock Show. All committee meetings and convention activities will be at the Red Lion. To reserve a room, call 303-3216666 and ask for the Gelbvieh block to receive the special room rate of $74 plus tax. Included each day are two breakfast buffet tickets. Deadline for room reservations is December 15, 2010. A small block of rooms are available at the DoubleTree Hotel Denver at the rate of $92 plus tax per night. Rooms are available on a first come, first serve basis by calling 303-321-3333 and asking for the Gelbvieh block. The block of rooms will be held until December 4, 2010. (There are no breakfast tickets at the DoubleTree.) Show your Gelbvieh passion
12 | December 2010
AGA Hires Lynn Valentine The American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) has added Lynn Valentine, Parker, Colo., to its staff. Valentine will fill the position of graphic designer/creative services coordinator and will start November 29. Valentine’s primary responsibilities include creating and designing multi-media communications projects for the American Gelbvieh Association and its publications, Gelbvieh World and The Profit Picture. In this role, she will work closely with breeders to manage and design advertising for the two publications. As creative services coordinator, Valentine will help the association launch a creative services department and assist members with the development of marketing and promotional material. Valentine brings prior experience working for a breed association and a breed publication. For several years, she worked for the American Simmental Association Publications, Inc., in graphic design and advertising customer service. In addition, Lammers Gelbvieh has Gelbvieh passion. Do you? Keep sending us your photos exhibing your Gelbvieh pride. Take photos of interesting or unique places either wearing your Gelbvieh clothing or of a sign with Gelbvieh on it. All photos will be displayed at the 2011 AGA annual convention and 40th anniversary celebration. Send photos to Jennifer at the AGA office or by email to jennifers@ gelbvieh.org. Thank you to Lammers Gelbvieh, Lexington, Neb., for sending in this seasonal photo for our “Where in the World is Gelbvieh?” contest.
she has worked with individual breeders designing ads and other promotional materials. Most recently, Valentine worked for the Douglas County School District, Lynn Valentine Castle Rock, Colo. “We are delighted to add Lynn to the AGA staff. Her artistic ability and creative touch will be an asset to the association, our publications and Gelbvieh members. Lynn will be essential in building a creative services department to be able to offer our members a wide variety of promotion and marketing assistance,” said Jennifer Scharpe, American Gelbvieh Association director of communications. Upon accepting the position, Valentine commented, “I am very excited to join the American Gelbvieh Association staff, and pleased to be getting back involved with the agriculture industry.” AGA office closed for holidays The American Gelbvieh Association office will be closed three days during the holiday season. The dates the office will be closed are: Friday, December 24; Monday, December 27; and Friday, December 31. The office will be open December 28-30. We wish you all a blessed and safe holiday season!
Bits ‘N Pieces bits ‘n pieces Tennessee Beef Agribition has new home The 2011 Tennessee Beef Agribition will have a new home after 25 years of being held in Murfreesboro. The event will be held March 11-13 at the Wilson County Fairgrounds, Lebanon, Tenn. The Tennessee Beef Agribition features a Gelbvieh show and sale sponsored by the Tennessee Gelbvieh Association, as well as an Open to the World Junior Gelbvieh heifer show. For more information, contact Michael Butler at 615-286-2799. Reach 38,000 cattle producers with the February Profit Picture The Profit Picture publication is receiving tremendous reviews. With the new mailing list, this publication now has a circulation of over 38,000 commercial cow-calf producers, cattlemen who use Gelbvieh genetics, and Gelbvieh seedstock breeders. The Profit Picture gives you the most value for your advertising dollar. The advertising deadline for the February issue of The Profit Picture is December 15. To receive the breeder early deadline discount, submit all ad copy by December 8. For smaller advertising budgets, get a State Round Up ad for only $75. Contact Don, Steve, or Brandon today to reserve your advertising space and submit your ad copy. Janssen Joins Genex Beef Program Genex Cooperative, Inc. has hired Jon Janssen of Earlham, Iowa, to serve as the
beef sire procurement manager. Janssen’s responsibilities will include evaluating prospective beef sires and acquiring sires or semen marketing rights to provide Genex members and customers with a solid beef sire lineup. He will also coordinate the beef QUEST sampling program. “Genex has put together an outstanding beef genetics offering for our members and customers. With Janssen’s extensive beef background, we expect little change in our philosophy and a continuation of our tradition in providing outstanding bulls with an excellent balance,” noted Genex vice president of beef programs Al Kuck. From 1999 to 2009, Janssen served as the Genex beef programs development manager. Prior to that, he was a Genex sales representative in Nebraska. He was also involved in his family’s Simmental operation. For more information on the Genex beef program, beef sires, service or products, visit www.crinet.com or contact customer service at 888-333-1783. Gelbvieh Departures Gary G. Holst, 78, a resident of rural Eldridge, Iowa, died on Sunday, October 24, 2010. He was born in Davenport, Iowa, on August 19, 1932, the son of William and Pearl (Helble) Holst. In 1953, Gary enlisted in the U.S. Army and served on the island of Okinawa in the South Pacific. He was honorably discharged in 1955. Gary was a 1960 graduate of Iowa State University with a degree in Farm Operations. On September 29, 1962, he was united in marriage
A m e r i c a n
G e l b v i e h
Gary G. Holst
to Joyce E. Paaske at the Bettendorf Presbyterian Church. He was a 4th generation life-long farmer in rural Eldridge and was named Iowa Master Farmer in 1996. His memberships and affiliations included the Gelbvieh Breeders of Iowa where he was a director, the National Farmers Organization and the Scott County Cattleman’s Association. Gary was also a lifetime member of the American Gelbvieh Association. In addition, he served as a Butler Township Trustee, was a commissioner of the Soil Conservation Service, was a former 4-H leader of the Butler Pacemakers and in earlier years, was a substitute teacher at North Scott High School in Eldridge. In 1989, the Holst farm was named a Century Farm, having been in the Holst family for 100 years. Those left to honor his memory include his beloved wife, Joyce; his children, Connie Holst of Eldridge and Kevin (Jessica) Holst of Eldridge; and his grandchildren, Aviana, Brielle, Cadrian and Denton. Gary was preceded in death by his brother, Billy, and by his parents.
A s s o c i a t i o n
Area Coordinators—Commercial Marketing
Don Danell Western Region
dond@gelbvieh.org (406) 538-5622 (O)
“Contact me with questions pertaining to Gelbvieh and Balancer seedstock for your programs. I would be glad to assit you. Be sure to take advantage of promoting your upcoming sales with The Profit Picture.”
“If you have questions on where to find your Gelbvieh bulls or females, please give me a call. Also, I can help you build a marketing program with exposure in Gelbvieh World.”
Steve Peddicord Eastern Region
stevep@gelbvieh.org (606) 387-8579 (O) • (606) 688-4492 (C)
“Now is the time to begin planning your advertising for spring sales in Gelbvieh World and The Profit Picture. Contact me for assistance.
Brandon McEndaffer Central Region
brandonm@gelbvieh.org (970) 520-3020 (C)
Gelbvieh World | 13
News news
Beef’s Hidden Gems Beef Product Development from the Beef Innovations Group and How They Can Affect the Beef Industry By Austin Teeter, AGJA member
Have you ever wondered where your steak comes from when you look at a cow? I mean, did that cut come from the brisket or the loin, or maybe it was from the round? Everyone could probably guess that a ribeye comes from the rib area or the tenderloin comes from the loin. Did you know that about two-thirds of the beef carcass comes from the chuck and the round? These areas are not known for tenderness and palatability. Traditionally, half of the usuable meat from the chuck has been used as ground beef or stew meat with the other half cut for roasts, while close to one-third of the meat from the round has been ground for hamburger. Recently, some of our beef check-off dollars have been spent with the Beef Innovations Group to add value to these underutilized muscles from the beef carcass. The Beef Innovations Group is a group of scientist, researchers, culinary experts, and businessmen who have taken on the task of adding value to beef and veal by developing new uses for muscles that have generally not been dissected into smaller units but sold as roasts and by developing products that are time-friendly for today’s working family. From the shoulder, they changed the traditional knifing techniques and worked with the shoulder clod and the top blade as individual muscles to get steaks and roasts that were easy-to-prepare and taste desireable. Their work yielded the flat iron steak, the ranch steak, and the petit tender. Before Beef Innovations, the top blade from the shoulder was often ending up as group beef. Today, a tendy, juicy, flavorful steak, the flat iron, is a mid-priced steak that has been met with acceptance in grocery stores as well as steak houses. Its sales have been reported at reaching 92 million pounds sold for the period ending August 31, 2006. This is a 96% increase in sales since it was first introduced. The report of the flat iron is that is remains tender when cooked, even when done to a well done order. It is also the the second most tender cut behind the 14 | December 2010
tenderloin. Not only can you enjoy the flat iron as a steak but it works in kabobs, fajitas, and stir fry. Another breakthrough with the shouldler is the petit tender. When you want to prepare a special meal what is the beef option that you would like to have? For me, it is filet mignon. How many of us can regularly purchase this tender gem? Now there is another option, the petite tender. It has a size and shape similar to pork tenderloins with the flavor and tenderness of the filet mignon, without the pricey tag. This muscle can be grilled or roasted whole or cut into medallions. Other developments to look for from the chuck area are the Delmonico steak, boneless country-style ribs, the sierra cut, the Denver cut, and America’s beef roast. The Beef Innovations Group has found and marketed these cuts along with convenience pre-cooked or dried beef products. With today’s hurry-up society, meals need to be quick and simple. To cater to the quick and simple needs of today’s family, Beef Innovations has introduced convenience meals like the crock pot readies which include Pot Roast and Beef Stew that can be added to a crock pot in the morning and slow cooked for dinner. Other ideas include the salad adder strips which are fully cooked, individually frozen and packaged in a re-sealable bag for defrosting the portion that you need and adding to your salad. If you don’t have time for fixing a complete meal, then try a onestep fresh meal like meat loaf and roasted potatoes or roast beef and hearty vegetables to name just two. These meals are packaged in disposable containers that go straight to the oven or grill and prepared so that each part finishes at the same time. As you can tell the Beef Innovations Group is not only innovative but mindful of the challenges of daily life for families in today’s hectic lifestyle and difficult economy. They have taken convenience to a new level with the pre-cooked, pre-packaged meals and placed them in grocery stores. These developments should help not only the beef producer by adding value to the
carcass by the addition of more steaks and a more consistent product but should help the consumer, too, by providing a higher quality, more consistent tasting product that is less expensive and less time consuming than
previously available. I challenge you to visit your local beef counter and try one of these products this week. You’ll find out, “Beef! It’s what’s for dinner!” Editor’s note: This essay, written by Austin
Teeter, was the champion intermediate division essay in the AGJA creative writing contest at the 2010 Lone Star Classic. Teeter is from Mount Ulla, N.C.
The Beef Innovations Group By Grant Powell
WOW! What an amazing idea. A group to promote the beef industry. People these days are eating more pork and chicken because it is easier to cook and they can cook it fast. That is what the Beef Innovations Group is here to help us with. They are coming up with new ideas for people to cook quick and that tastes good. What I am going to tell you is about the Beef Innovations Group and who they are and what they are doing to help the beef industry. The Beef Innovations Group is great in so many different ways! These people don’t try to just get your money and do what they want; they work with you to make new achievements for you and others. In today’s world, people want things done quicker and faster. This means that people don’t want to cook like they did five to ten years ago. They want to be able to put it in the microwave or in the oven so they can warm it up and not have to make and prepare the whole meal. For example, portable foods are consumed in the home 72% of the time, in the car 44% of the time, and at the office 30% of the time. One of their sayings is “Happy Kids, Happy Moms”. The people in the beef industry are working hard to make products that kids will want to eat and that make parents feel good about what their kids are eating. Moms know that if kids don’t like how the food looks or how the food tastes, then they won’t eat it. Moms are trying very hard to feed their families healthy meals while still being worried about the childhood obesity problem in the United States. Beef is a healthy food for growing kids because of its high quality protein values. The Beef Innovations Group is always trying to develop new ideas and beef products that can go straight into development. By coming up with these new ideas, they are helping Moms have new and creative ways to feed their families. Some of their latest ideas have been: Beef Tenders, Beef Bites, Ready Grill’d Steaks, Beef Chips, Buffalo Beef Wings, Beef Croutons, and more! Another big problem with kids today is not eating breakfast in the morning. The Beef Innovations Group is trying to make healthy breakfast meals for kids before their bid day ahead of them. The cereal companies are talking about how healthy their cereal is but is has a lot of sugar in them. That is why the Beef Innovations Group is trying to help out with this problem. One of their newest ideas has been breakfast burritos. The Beef Innovations Group is also aware of how kids like pizza. Most of the pizza has pork or chicken products on them. That is another reason why they are coming up with new cuts of beef to make the pizza still a favorite to all. All of the reasons that I have told you about is why the Beef
Innovations Group is here for us. Like I said, they are trying to help us, not shut us down or make us go broke. I believe that if we help the Beef Innovations Group, that they will help the way people think about the beef industry. This would help all of us right now the way the economy is around us. This is how I feel about the Beef Innovations Group trying to help us. Thank you for taking your time to read what I have written. Editor’s note: This essay, written by Grant Powell, was the reserve intermediate division essay in the AGJA creative writing contest at the 2010 Lone Star Classic. Powell is from Palmyra, Mo.
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From the Shipping Pen from the shipping pen Beef Markets on Solid Footing By Slim Cook
Sandy and Mary Gravely of Avon, Mont., marketed a stout set of Gelbvieh influenced feeder calves for fall delivery through Gelbvieh Profit Partners, Inc.
This past month Gelbvieh Profit Partners, Inc., spent some time taking delivery on the calves and yearlings we marketed from Colorado, Idaho, and Montana. GPP marketed approximately 300 spayed yearling heifers from southwest Idaho and two different sets of calves from the western slope of Colorado and the mountains of central Montana. Mound Valley Livestock of Soda Springs, Idaho, a long time Eagle Pass Ranch customer, delivered a solid set of feeding heifers. Both the Gravely Brothers from Avon, Mont., and Vaughn Ranch of Cedaredge, Colo., delivered a stout set of calves right off the cow. It seems this fall that environmental conditions have played a role in performance and reaching base weight targets. Both the yearling heifers and Gravely Brothers calves weighed considerably under their base weight. That situation is not unique, as I’ve experienced numerous calf deliveries being quite a bit lighter than the intended weight. However, the opposite outcome occurred on other deliveries where calves have weighed a considerable amount over their base weight. This was the case for the Vaughn Ranch calves as their calves fared well on the high mountain grass this summer. Their calves pushed the scale down awfully well – the steers weighed 678 pounds and the heifers weighed 617 pounds. These wide ranges in weights, as compared to the predicted outcome, have been prevalent across the Northern Plains and Rocky Mountain states. It seems Mother Nature seems intent on remaining elusive and unpredictable. One aspect of the deliveries that has been constant is the weather. Everyone is 16 | December 2010
relieved that the cold, wet weather that delayed harvest in 2009 and wreaked havoc with the fall run last year has been replaced with very mild and pleasant weather. If anything, it’s probably been too warm and dusty. I have heard that some feedyards have treated as many as 70 percent of the calves they are weaning. That really plays havoc with the calves placed on feed, especially if they are in an all natural program. As for the markets, it appears that the cattle business should remain on solid footing for some time. The continual cow slaughter that the industry has experienced the past several years has resulted in tight feeder cattle numbers. Feedyards are competing for fewer numbers with increased bunk space – a definite advantage for the producer selling feeder cattle. One “fly in the ointment,” however, will be the situation in the grain markets. The volatility I mentioned in my column last month has only intensified since the last USDA crop report. The 300 million bushels of corn the USDA found for the September 30th quarterly stocks report was subsequently eliminated the following week in the October WASDE report. The carryout in corn was reduced to 902 million bushels. This was due to reduced yield for the 2010 crop and strong demand. It seems the number crunchers at the USDA have exploited “fuzzy math” and a very bullish situation has developed in the grain markets. The additional actions by the Federal Government have only added to the bullishness as their desire to print more money has resulted in a plunging U.S. dollar. This “weak” dollar policy is favorable to exports. Unfortunately, this rally in the grain markets does not bode well for cattle feeders. I will add, however, that the lower U.S. dollar will help maintain strong beef exports. Solid beef exports are one of the main reasons, along with horrible winter weather, for the sharp rally in the cattle market over the past 12 months. So the beef industry does get some substantial benefit from the Federal policy. In closing, challenging and volatile markets will definitely be the rule, and not the exception in 2011. As you navigate these markets in 2011, be sure to contact GPP when considering your marketing options.
Gelbvieh: Adding Pounds, Adding Profit By Kaisha Jurgens, AGJA member
Gelbvieh: adding pounds and adding profit. The Gelbvieh breed prides itself on being one of the best maternal breeds in the industry and the carcass traits are hard to beat. Gelbvieh is the number one breed for profit at weaning. Crossbreeding works tremendously with Gelbvieh, especially when speaking of the newly formed Balancer industry. Gelbvieh’s strengths are for more than just the cow/calf producer. The marketing slogan “Add Pounds, Add Profit” compliments the advantages of using Gelbvieh in a terminal situation. Gelbvieh’s have been proven to wean at 100 to 150 pounds more than their counterparts. For years we have had customers tell us how they have finally found the right cross for their Angus or Red Angus cows. With the first cross, they are thrilled and amazed with the 100 to 150 more pounds of calf that they get to wean in the fall. They have recognized the length of calving and early maturity of the Gelbvieh genetics as the major contributors to this success. Each year we make our breeding decisions on the ability to maximize weaning performance when we consider the performance part of the decision. Following the “Smart Cross” system will insure that you wean not only the maximum amount of pounds but the right kind of calves that will convert and feed well for the feedlot that buys your calves. The key to maximizing pounds at weaning is not just the Gelbvieh or Balancer bull but it is also the cow. The cow is what brought us to the Gelbvieh breed in the first place. No other breed could match the capabilities of what Gelbvieh influence can accomplish in a cross bred cow. The tremendous amount of maternal qualities they add to a herd are unmatched. The beef industry is something I have a great passion for. I love the way it grows and changes over time and working with breeding scenarios to adapt to these changes. The Gelbvieh breed has been very volatile throughout the years. While purebred herds are becoming few and far between, it is important that the Gelbvieh breed complies with these changes while still maintaining the standards we as breeders set for ourselves. As I have gotten older and have become more involved with the operation of our herd I have come to realize how important it is to use the right bulls for the right cows and how adding pounds to calves is important in any scenario. While our herd is primarily made up of Gelbvieh cows and our bull battery consists of Balancers, we utilize the cross-breeding method, whether it be Angus or Red Angus or Shorthorn and Simmental genetics. This method has been very beneficial to us. Being heavily involved in the show world I find it very important to have high quality animals. Selling calves to area 4H-er’s has been a great way for me to make money and become more involved in the industry. Selling high quality steers that will gain well and still maintain that show quality is very important to me. Our females with a Gelbvieh background are great for raising these kinds of calves. The maternal traits they have such as milking ability are very important to the development of calves. Our easy calving Gelbvieh cows can out produce almost any other commercial cow we have within our herd. The high weaning weights of these calves can be attributed to their continental breed backgrounds. Every year our Gelbvieh steers finish out at a higher weight and much easier than their other crossbred counterparts.
When speaking from a cow/calf scenario, the bull you use is crucial to the kind of calves you will raise. There are many factors that need to be taken into account such as EPD’s, birth weights, weaning weights, and yearling weights. My family and I pride ourselves on raising high quality bulls that will not only work for us but close friends that count on us to keep raising high quality cattle. They trust us to find the best bull for their operations. Our bulls are superior when it comes to adding pounds to calves. This is what keeps customers coming back year after year. Today, all sectors of the beef industry are facing the challenges of higher feed and input costs and volatile market prices, knowing that they are purchasing a quality bull that will add pounds and in turn add profits is a great comfort to our seedstock producers. Gelbvieh cattle carry a big advantage when it comes to performance and cutability. Gelbvieh cross cattle have exceptional average daily gains and conversion rates. Selecting sires that can produce calves with the genetics for growth and carcass traits to satisfy the feeder and the packer should be the goal of every cow/calf producer. It has come to show that the Continental breeds are crucial when it comes to hitting the mark on quality and yield grades. The Gelbvieh breed has been known for the growth and muscle they can add to other breeds. This quality is crucial in today’s markets and will continue to take Gelbvieh into the future. They are truly the Smart Cross and will continue to add pounds and profit to producers around the world. Editor’s note: This essay, written by Kaisha Jurgens, was the champion senior division essay in the AGJA creative writing contest at the 2010 Lone Star Classic. Jurgens is from Road Miller, Neb.
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AGJA Creative Writing
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AGA Convention
2011 National Western Stock Show Schedule Gelbvieh Breed Activities Tuesday, January 4 8:00 a.m.
Cattle begin arriving
Wednesday, January 5 7:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Cattle in place on the Hill & in the Yards National Show Committee Meeting
Thursday, January 6 8:00 a.m. Process & Check-In Yard Cattle followed by Hill Cattle 11:00 a.m. - Noon AGA Executive Committee Noon - 5:30 p.m. AGA Board of Directors Meeting (Lunch) 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 pm National Sale Committee Meeting Friday, January 7 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Rules & Bylaws Committee Meeting 9:45 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Finance Committee Meeting 11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Foundation Committee Meeting Pick up a bag lunch between meetings 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Marketing & Member Education Committee Meeting 2:45 p.m. - 5:15 p.m. Productivity Committee Meeting 5:15 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. GPP, Inc. Annual Shareholders Meeting and Board Meeting 7:00 p.m. - 9:00p.m. Breeder’s Choice Gelbvieh Bull Futurity and People’s Choice Balancer Bull Futurity Meetings Saturday, January 8 7:30 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. National Junior Gelbvieh Show – Stadium Arena
10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Breeder’s Choice Gelbvieh Bull Futurity and People’s Choice Balancer Bull Futurity – Stadium Arena 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Annual Meeting – Hotel 5:15 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. AGA Board Meeting to Elect Officers & Take Photo 6:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. AGA 40th Anniversary Celebration & Social Breeders Choice Gelbvieh Bull Futurity Introduce New AGA Officers Out-going Board Recognition Hall of Fame & Member of the Year Recognition AGJA Donation Heifer Tickets Sale Sunday, January 9 5:30 a.m. - 7:30 a.m. AGA Board Meeting 8:00 a.m. National Pen Bull Show – Livestock Center Noon Lunch Sponsored by the National Sale – LCAA 1:00 p.m. National Gelbvieh Sale – Livestock Center Monday, January 10 7:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. Breeder’s Choice Futurity Board Meeting – Hotel 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. National Gelbvieh and Balancer Show Recognize Ring of Gold, Premier Breeder & Exhibitor 7:00 p.m. Begin Release of Gelbvieh & Balancer Hill Cattle 10:00 p.m. All Hill Cattle Out Tuesday, January 11 7:00 a.m.
Begin Release of Yard Cattle – All out by 4:00 p.m.
2011 National Convention Registration Name____________________________________________________________ AGA Member No. ____________________________________ Address _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City/town ____________________________________________________State ____________________________ Zip _ __________________ Name tags will be issued based on this registration form. Please include first and last names. Please print clearly or type: Name _ __________________________________________________ Name _____________________________________________________ Name _ __________________________________________________ Name _____________________________________________________
Convention Registration • January 7-8, 2011 1 Convention Package per paid AGA membership dues
FREE
(Free for one person per paid membership)
Convention Package
(For lifetime members, additional packages, members with unpaid annual dues)
On-Site or registration after January 1, 2011
Red Lion Hotel 303-321-6666 $74 + tax rate Request the Gelbvieh block before Dec. 15 First come, first served basis. (Block dates: Jan. 5-11, 2011)
Number
Total
$75.00 per person X ___________ = ____________
Headquarters:
$50.00 per person X ___________ = ____________
Number
Block Rooms Also Available: DoubleTree Hotel 303-321-3333 $92 + tax rate Request the Gelbvieh block before Dec. 4 First come, first served basis.
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Mail Registration Form & Payment to:
American Gelbvieh Association 10900 Dover St., Westminster, CO 80021
Member participation and input needed at AGA Annual Convention. Help make decisions affecting your membership. • 40th Anniversary Celebration and Recognition of 35+ Year Members • Review of 5-Year-Plan and AGA Fee Structure • Update on Computer Registry Conversion Process • Unveiling of Gelbvieh Print for the American Gelbvieh Foundation
Register Today! Remember ~ AGA members receive 1 free convention package per paid membership See opposite page for registration form and information
AGA Convention
Voice Your Opinion through the AGA Committee Process The American Gelbvieh Association committee meetings are open to all AGA members. You are encouraged to attend these meetings and add your input to help the development and direction of the breed. If you are unable to attend the annual convention, contact one of the committee members to provide your input. Participating in the committee process is vital to the success and future direction of the AGA. National Show Committee Wednesday, January 5 6:30-8:30 p.m. Red Lion Hotel Committee Co-Chairs: Rob Arnold – 701-852-9528 Andy LeDoux – 785-732-6564 The national show committee recommends rules and show policies for the National Gelbvieh and Balancer shows and reviews the AGA recommended judges list, proposing the addition or removal of names to the Board of Directors. This committee also oversees the Ring of Gold program and reviews requests for shows to be added as a Ring of Gold show. The core committee selects judges for the NWSS for Board of Director approval. National Sale Committee Thursday, January 6 6:30-8:30 p.m. Red Lion Hotel Committee Co-Chairs: Ken Flikkema – 406-586-6207 John Shearer – 620-628-4621 The national sale committee is responsible for assisting in coordinating the national sale and making recommendations to the Board of Directors for changes necessary to improve the effectiveness of future national sales. Recommendations include hiring of sale manager, any changes to national sale rules, and date, time, and location of the next year’s national sale. Rules & Bylaws Committee Friday, January 7 8:00-9:30 a.m. Red Lion Hotel Committee Co-Chairs: Randy Gallaway – 405-649-2410 E. Edd Pritchett – 405-375-5516 20 | December 2010
The rules and bylaws committee has the responsibility for interpreting all of AGA By-Laws, Rules and Policies. This committee also makes recommendations for changes to the current rules and bylaws. Finance Committee Friday, January 7 9:45-11:00 a.m. Red Lion Hotel Committee Co-Chairs: Mark Goes – 402-766-3627 Grant Thayer – 303-621-2058 The purpose of the finance committee is to review the budget and suggest changes to the Board of Directors. During this meeting, the committee reviews the annual audit of the AGA as prepared by the AGA accountant. This year, the finance committee will also discuss revisions to the AGA fee structure. Foundation Committee Friday, January 7 11:15-12:30 p.m. Red Lion Hotel Committee Co-Chairs: Jerry Grund – 785-891-3765 Dr. Glenn Wehner – 660-785-4576 The foundation committee provides guidance and recommendations to the American Gelbvieh Foundation Board of Directors. The primary function of this committee is to generate funds and awareness for the Foundation. In January, the foundation committee will discuss their new fundraising efforts for 2011 – a Gelbvieh print from renowned cattle artist, C.J. Brown. Marketing and Member Education Committee Friday, January 7 1:00-2:30 p.m. Red Lion Hotel Committee Co-Chairs: Michael Butler – 615-286-2799 Dan Warner – 308-268-6020 The purpose of the marketing and member education committee is to provide direction for promotion of the breed and for education of AGA members. The marketing committee discusses potential marketing programs for the breed and members as well as reviews AGA promotional efforts. From an education standpoint, the committee reviews methods
and efforts of educating AGA members with tools to use ranging from marketing and promotion to AGA programs. Productivity Committee Meeting Friday, January 7 2:45-5:15 p.m. Red Lion Hotel Committee Co-Chairs: Cody Miller – 254-793-2817 Brian Schafer – 651-923-5415 The productivity committee reviews and evaluates the standards used in the Association recording and registration programs, and recommends changes to the Board of Directors. The duty of this committee is to encourage and promote Association performance testing programs. Annual Membership Meeting Saturday, January 8 3:00-5:00 p.m. Red Lion Hotel The purpose of the meeting is electing directors, ratifying previous actions of the Board of Directors, and transacting of other business as may properly come before the meeting. The nominating committee recommends the following slate of nominees for the five open positions on the AGA Board of Directors. Other nominations may be accepted from the floor during the annual meeting. • Ken Flikkema, Bozeman, Mont. • Bob Hart, Kansas City, Kan. • John Huston, New Carlisle, Ohio • David Martin, Judsonia, Ark. • Butch Stucky, Salina, Kan. • Grant Thayer, Ramah, Colo. A member who is unable to attend the annual meeting may request an absentee ballot in writing (by mail or fax, email is not accepted) for election of directors. In order to obtain an absentee ballot, a member must submit his or her application to the American Gelbvieh Association office not more than 60 days (November 8, 2010) nor less than 10 days (December 29, 2010) prior to the annual meeting, and must be in good standing with the association at least sixty (60) days prior to the annual meeting. Ballots must be returned to the AGA office by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, January 7, 2011 to be counted at the annual meeting on Saturday, January 8, 2010.
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Bill Clark of Barnard, Kan., has been selected as the 2011 inductee to the American Gelbvieh Association Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame presentation will take place on Saturday, January 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the AGA National Convention. Bill and his son LeLand Clark have a successful father-son partnership in their farming and ranching operation, Post Rock Cattle Company, in which they have been raising registered Gelbvieh for 25 years. Post Rock Cattle Company has produced some of the breeds top herd sires including Polled Gizmo, Top Brass, Black Savvy, New Direction, Bouncer, among others. As a many time consigner to the Kansas Beef Expo, Post Rock Cattle Company still holds the record of the all-time high selling female of all breeds at this sale with Post Rock Diamond 35G2. Bill has been actively involved in the Kansas Gelbvieh Association and helped
organize and host the first traveling KGA tour. On the national level, he has served on several committees including productivity and national sale. Bill also served two terms on the AGA Board of Directors and helped make decisions on blended breed EPDs, whole herd assessments, and the Balancer® program. In one recommendation letter, Butch Stucky writes, “When I was visiting with one of Bill’s long time commercial bull customers, he asked me ‘Do you know why I buy my bulls from Bill?’ Because they have quality cattle I answered. ‘Well that to,’ he said, ‘but I don’t believe Bill would lie to save his own life. So I know I can trust him on a cattle deal to tell me like it is.’ That kind of respect can’t be bought, only earned with years of treating people fairly.” Nominated by the Kansas Gelbvieh Association, Bill Clark has proved his lasting contribution to the growth and
AGA Convention
AGA Hall of Fame Inductee
development of the breed, his outstanding leadership to the AGA, and is therefore highly deserving of being the 2011 American Gelbvieh Association Hall of Fame inductee.
Member of the Year The 2011 American Gelbvieh Association Member of the Year is Bob Hart of Hart Farm Gelbvieh, Kansas City, Mo. The Member of the Year presentation will take place on Saturday, January 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the AGA National Convention. Bob Hart has been very active with the Heart of America Gelbvieh Association, where he is the secretary/treasurer. He edits and publishes the HAGA state paper, Golden Cattle News, as well as the HAGA Breeders Directory. He has also spent countless hours setting up and manning the HAGA booth at the Kansas City Farm Show, the Missouri State Fair, and other shows in the state. It is not uncommon to see Bob at many Gelbvieh events across the country including Kansas Gelbvieh Association events, the AGA annual convention, the American Royal, and many junior shows. An avid support of youth, Bob often attends the American Gelbvieh Junior Association regional shows and Junior
Classic to support Gelbvieh juniors. He gives generously to sponsor meals or awards for state and national junior events. Ronnie Rogers writes in his nomination letter, “Bob Hart is the drive behind HAGA. He is so optimistic and willing to take responsibility. He keeps the state association active. HAGA doesn’t have a promotion committee; we have Bob Hart. He is the essence of a vocal Gelbvieh believer.” Hart Farm Gelbvieh, though small in numbers has produced some powerful genetics including several A.I. sires and donor quality females, as well as open show heifer prospects. Mike Shrewsbury in his nomination letter writes, “Bob has accomplished what he set out to do. He has built a herd of the best red cattle that anyone would be proud of.” Outside of the Gelbvieh breed, Bob is a member of the Kansas Livestock Association and a supporter of Wyandotte County 4-H and its annual auction. He is also a member
of the Arabian Horse Association and the Kansas City Direct Marketing Association, among many others. The Heart of America Gelbvieh Association has nominated Bob Hart for 2011 Member of the Year. Bob exemplifies the dedication, hard work, and commitment to HAGA, the AGA, and the Gelbvieh breed to make him an outstanding recipient of this award. Gelbvieh World | 21
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Introducing the 2011
AGA Board of Directors Candidates Ken Flikkema Greetings! My family and I own and operate Middle Creek Farms located in Bozeman, Mont. Middle Creek Farms is a second generation operation that includes over 350 head of cattle, of which 150 are now papered. Crops include hay, which is sold into several states, wheat, barley, corn and sometimes canola. I have been honored to have served on the AGA Board for the past three years and feel that I can be an asset to the association and it’s Board of Directors, if I am reelected. On the national level, I also serve as chairman of the Gelbvieh Bull Futurity and co-chair the National Sale committee. In addition, I am active in my state association, serving on the Board of Directors and as superintendant of Gelbvieh cattle at the NILE livestock show held in Billings, Mont., in October. I am excited about the new structure we have in place for the operations of the Gelbvieh association. I think it is very important that we have active field staff out in the country, helping members and non-members. I am asking for your input as well as your support in the operation of the American Gelbvieh Association. Your vote will be greatly appreciated and I will be honored by your support. Thanks for your trust in me and if reelected I will do all I can to see that the Gelbvieh breed remains the Continental breed of choice.
Bob Hart I think you would classify me as a small breeder. Our home farm consists of 38 acres and is located within the city limits of Kansas City, Kan. The farm has been in my family for over 80 years. In 1996, on the advice of our accountant, my wife and I decided to convert the farm back to a small cattle operation. We researched the different breeds and chose Gelbvieh because of their disposition. That fall we bought our first four Gelbvieh animals. Today, we run 28 purebred, two Balancer® and two Red Angus females on 105 acres. All are red except for one black donor. Our acreage is within the city limits which add many challenges unique to an urban setting. We have built our herd by flushing proven cows. Currently, we have seven donors and implant around 25 to 30 embryos a year. We contract with area seedstock producers for recips and purchase the ET calves back at 205 days. Bulls are marketed through Seedstock Plus and females through state association sales and private treaty. Last year we sold our cattle to breeders in nine different states across the country. In 2003, I was recruited to run for the board of the Heart of America Gelbvieh Association and was elected. Quickly, I learned that a successful state association can have a positive influence on the success of the breed within that state, and I worked with my fellow board members towards that goal. In 2004, I was elected Secretary/Treasurer and have held that position ever since. Today, HAGA is on sound financial footing. Our membership numbers are stable and the services we provide our members are growing. I was honored this year when several HAGA breeders asked that I consider running for the AGA board. Even though I’m not a large breeder, I feel the experience I’ve gained with my seven-year involvement in HAGA can make a positive input in the future direction of our national association. I also feel my 30 years in the advertising industry can add to the marketing efforts needed to promote the Gelbvieh breed to both commercial and new Gelbvieh breeders. I urge you take the time to vote for your national Board. If you can’t attend the national convention, please request an absentee ballot so you can be a part in determining the future of our association. You have several highly qualified nominees to choose from. Please review them all. Then, if you feel I could make a positive contribution to our national Board, I would appreciate your support and vote. It would be an honor to serve you. 22 | December 2010
AGA Convention
Feature feature John Huston I am grateful for having had the honor to serve the AGA membership for the past three years and appreciate the opportunity to run for a second term. This is a very interesting time for breed associations. The shrinking national herd inventory combined with challenging economic times requires us to be more creative than ever in finding new ways to define the role of our association and provide for the needs of the AGA members. Our Board of Directors face new challenges and I would like to represent you as we overcome the obstacles before us. A greater proportion of our membership includes low volume producers like me and approximately half of our members are from areas outside of the traditional Gelbvieh regions. My professional career has been as a manager of commercial beef cattle operations and from this I bring a practical real world perspective to the role of director. I have been a Gelbvieh breeder since 1991 and understand the position and responsibilities of seedstock producers. More recently I have taken advantage of the opportunity to organize rural development projects and teach a variety of agriculture courses at a small university in Rwanda. This unique combination of experiences helps me to understand multiple perspectives as we try to be more proactive as an association. I believe that we are in a position to utilize membership development opportunities to strengthen our state associations, create more diverse marketing opportunities for our bull customers, and position the AGA to capture a greater percentage of the seedstock market. I encourage those of you who are unable to attend our National Convention to exercise your right to vote by requesting and completing your absentee ballot. For those of you who are able to attend and will vote in person, I ask that you participate in the various meetings and get involved at the committee level and voice your opinion on the topics of discussion. Thank you and I look forward to visiting with you in Denver.
David Martin My name is David Martin, and I would like to thank you for the opportunity serve the AGA as a Director. It is truly an honor to be nominated and I would greatly appreciate your consideration to vote for me to work for the good of the association and its members. To tell you a little about myself, I live near Judsonia, Ark., with my wife, Rita, and our family. My three daughters, Rebecca, Dana, Rasha and their families, work together on our family farm. We have been and continue to be active in the American Gelbvieh Association and the American Gelbvieh Junior Association. I have attended several AGA Conventions and served on the National Show Committee, the Rules & By-laws Committee, and the Foundation Committee. I currently work for Land O Lakes Purina Feed as the Aquaculture Feed Manager. I grew up on a Hereford operation before attending Arkansas State University. I earned a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and was a member of the Livestock and Dairy Judging Teams. Upon graduation, I became the farm manager for ASU from 1977 to 1980. Then in 1980, I became the ranch manager for Porter Rodgers Farms. There, I was responsible for 1,200 to 2,000 head of cattle including purebred Santa Gertrudis, commercial cow-calf, stocker and feedlot programs. It was during this time that I became involved with the Gelbvieh Breed. Gelbvieh impressed me with their milk, fertility, and performance compared to the other breeds in our commercial herd. In 1990, the ranch dispersed and I purchased 12 half-blood Gelbvieh females for my foundation. Today, my family has about 100 head of purebred and Gelbviehinfluenced cows. I am proud to say that my family has been in the seedstock business for more than 70 years. My philosophy has always been to raise cattle that are functional, efficient, and that fit the commercial industry. I recognize and honor the responsibility of the AGA Board. I offer experience in managing budgets, developing business plans, marketing, and working with people in our industry. I believe that a director should always put the good of the association before his personal wants or desires. My goal is to see the Gelbvieh breed reach its fullest potential and would very much appreciate the opportunity to continue serving you on the AGA Board of Directors.
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AGA Convention
Feature feature
Butch Stucky First, I want to thank all of you who have asked and encouraged me to run for this prestigious office. I am honored to be considered for an AGA director. Our Gelbvieh herd is a full time hobby. In addition to working with our cattle, I work full time at Triplett Inc. as VP of Retail Operations. Triplett Inc. has nine 24/7 Travel Stores along Kansas interstate highways and operate City Wide Self Storage in Salina. My wife Marla works off the farm full time at Crestwood Design Center, as a sales assistant. Together we handle the day-to-day chores with our cattle. We have two children, Tiffany, who lives near McPherson, Kan., with and her husband, Zeke Durr, and their daughter, Karly. Our son Dusty and his wife, Collene, live near Osage City, Kan. We started Stucky Gelbviehs and joined the AGA in 1982. We were a young couple struggling with limited farm income and looking for a way to increase our profits without adding land or equipment. The addition of Gelbvieh genetics has been profitable for us. Stucky Gelbviehs is a Charter member of Kansas Gelbvieh Association. We were fortunate to find some great leadership from fellow KGA Charter members who helped us learn some basics about being a seedstock producer, since neither Marla nor I had any experience in the seedstock industry. Because of my off the farm career we have moved our herd four times and each time we started over building our commercial customer base. With each move, I found our Gelbvieh cattle to be well received. We currently market our bulls and females mostly through Post Rock Cattle Co., Barnard, Kan., as a cooperator herd. One of the driving forces behind entering their program as a cooperator herd was to allow our customers to purchase bulls that were grown and measured in a large group giving our customers more reliable data. We made this decision based on business, but what we found was a treasured friendship with the Clarks and other Post Rock Cooperators. Eight years ago we followed the leadership of the AGA Board of Directors and added Balancer® cattle to our herd to meet the ever-evolving consumer demand. It is easy, now, to see the importance of this plan and the positive direction it has taken our breed. Only through harnessing the power of many minds could such an innovative program be implemented. If elected I can only hope that during my tenure I could help create innovative plans such as this. Thank you for considering me for the AGA Board of Directors.
Grant Thayer Grant Thayer has been dedicated to the breeding and improvement of Gelbvieh cattle for over 25 years. Beginning with one pureblood bull used on crossbred cows, he now has over 600 cows with Gelbvieh or Balancer® calves, most of which will be registered. He and his wife of almost 40 years, Patti, are very proud of their two children. Their son Grant has degrees in geology, business and finance and is currently a management consultant for a large firm. Their daughter Heidi, a graduate from the University of Colorado, is the proud mother of their first grandchild, Benjamin. Grant, an engineer also has a Master’s degree in Business. Although, raising Gelbvieh is his passion, Grant has spent over 35 years in various technical and management positions in the petroleum industry. His last position was as CEO of a company owning a portfolio of industry assets. In recent years, the majority of his time has been focused on his ownership and management of Jumping Cow Gelbvieh. It is Grant’s strong belief that Gelbvieh breeders, as a group, raise the most useful livestock in the cattle industry. Current economic outlook have some buyers of purebred and commercial cattle reluctant to pay adequately for the genetics provided, but we breeders must remain enthusiastic promoters of our breed and programs to successfully market the cattle that each of us has breed and improved over the years. Grant has served on various committees and strongly believes in the committee system which includes all members in the decision making process. He seeks your consideration to become a member of the AGA Board of Directors and will be honored, if given the opportunity to serve fellow Gelbvieh enthusiasts. 24 | December 2010
Breeder's corner
Colorado
Alabama
Dave & Dawn Bowman 55784 Holly Rd. • Olathe, CO 81425
(970) 323-6833 www.bowkranch.com
Indiana
Kittle Gelbvieh Farms
3 G Ranch
Quality Black Gelbvieh Cattle Johnny D. Kittle 816 Co. Rd. 36 Geraldine, AL 35974 Cell (256) 996-4140
Gelbvieh Cattle For Sale Carl, Rebecca & Emily Griffiths 1577 N 600 E • Kendallville, IN 46755
260/897-2160 • ggge3g@embarqmail.com
Your call or visit is Always Welcome
Arizona
Grant Thayer, Owner
(303) 621-2058 Grant@JumpingCowGelbvieh.com
Brad Ridinger, Manager
The Prosser Family
928/477-2458 Summer
G E L B V I E H
Office: (719) 764-2327 Cell: (303) 810-0582 Brad@JumpingCowGelbvieh.com
CATTLE THAT MEET THE CHALLENGE Ramah, Colorado
www.JumpingCowGelbvieh.com
928/289-2619 Winter Angus, Gelbvieh, Balancer & Commercial Replacement Females
Merle E. Lewis
812/863-7701
James L. Lewis
812/863-2970
RR1 Box 1360 • Springville, IN 47462
GS
Arkansas
15702 Hodges Rd., Omaha, AR 72662 Hodgesranch@live.com
Fullblood Polled Gelbvieh Polled Hereford
Iowa
Winslow, AZ Website: www.bartbar.com Email: info@bartbar.com
H odges R anch
Ridge Top Ranch
Gelbvieh-Angus-Balancer
Eugene (870) 426-5333
Illinois
Breed-leading Performance from Quality Genetics
Kevin: 402-510-8103 Al: 402-676-5292
Ricky Linquist
Diana (870) 426-5334
“Realizing the Value”
th Street inquist 1135 190 inquist Fonda, IA 50540
Neal (870) 426-4469
Gelbvieh & Balancer Bulls & Heifers Available Private Treaty Sales
Neola, Iowa
Black & Polled Private Treaty Sales
arms (712) 288-5349 arms Skyler Martin
1200 S. Blackhawk Rd. Oregon, IL 61061-9762 815•732•7583
Member
Gelbvieh & Red Angus
Email: rickylin@ncn.net www.linquistfarms.com
LGone O ak e l b v i e h hornsandthorns@netins.net Eric Ehresman (319) 489-2275 20963 30th St. (319) 480-1564 Mechanicsville, IA 52306
• Polled Purebreds • Red • Black
Double D Farm
26 | December 2010
Skyler Martin
9937 Warren Rd. Winslow, IL 61089
1200 S. Blackhawk Rd. Oregon, IL 61061
(815) 367-4116
(815) 732-7583
McCabe Cattle Co.
Two Step Ranch
563-543-5251
563-543-4177
Lacey McCabe
Pat and Jay McCabe
Gelbvieh Farley, Iowa Balancers Annual Spring Bull Sale 60-80 Bred Females Each Fall
(E-mail): twostepranch@netins.net (web): www.mccabecattle.com
Kansas
gelbvieh
Gary and Kenny White 3140 SE Colorado • Topeka, KS 66605 785.267.1066 or 785.554.4744
Bar Arrow Cattle Company Stuar t Jar vis
B/F Cattle Company
Specializing in Forage Raised Balancer® Bulls on K-31
Culling practices on cows/bulls second to NONE! For information, contact:
Kentucky
Route 1, Box 407 • Butler, MO 64730
660 • 492 • 2808
26 E. Limestone Rd. • Phillipsburg, KS 67661 e-mail: bararrow@ruraltel.net • 785/543-5177
Range Ready Simangus, Balancer (Gv x An), Angus Bulls
“Where workin’ cattle & eye appeal come full circle”
John & Carla Shearer (620) 628-4621 (620) 654-6507 (John Cell)
2815 Navajo Rd. Canton, KS 67428 circle_s@hometelco.net
Purebred Gelbvieh & Balancer Cattle High Quality Genetics for Every Cattleman.
Annual Production Sale 1st Saturday in April
Owners: David Butts Wayne Butts
Contact David Butts: 270-365-3715 (H) 270-625-4700 (C) Princeton, KY • Email: ddcmbutts@wildblue.net
18-30 mo. age, all forage tested, calving ease, semen tested, guaranteed, large selection of top genetics, utilize hybrid vigor for more $, more longevity, more forage You can utilize the benefits of heterosis! genetics. Quality bred heifers & cows. John Rotert/Bob Harriman 50 yrs. of reputation Montrose, MO seedstock. 660-693-4844 • 660-492-2504
www.rotertharriman.com
Minnesota Brandywine Farm Tom Scarponcini
Purebred A.I. Seedstock Bulls and Heifers Available. Cell: (913) 219-6613 H: (913) 724-4105 Bonner Springs, KS 66012 FAX: (913) 724-4107
30474 Brandywine Road Rushford, MN 55971
Al, Mary & Nick Knapp 18291 158th Street
507-864-2063
e-mail: knappa@swbell.net
Gelbvieh
We want to Keep up with AGA members. Please send in information to be included in the Gelbvieh World and on our website: • Items for Places to Be • News for Bits N Pieces • Dates for upcoming shows and field days. • State Association news
SFI Schafer Farms, Inc.
Balancer®
37740 240th Ave., Goodhue, MN 55027 Brian Schafer Lowell Schafer 1-888-226-9210 651-923-4587 brian@schaferfarm.com www.schaferfarm.com Private Treaty Bull Sale — Last Sat. in February Annually
Rogers Valley Farm Gelbvieh Breed for Tomorrow’s Cattle Today!
A Breed Leader in Tenderness & Marbling– With herd sires profiling a perfect 10 in Tenderness and carrying the 316 Tenderness Gene! P.O. Box 51 Mendon, MO 64660 (660) 272-3805 (O) (660-375-7266 (C) Ronald & Kathryne Rogers email: rogers_valley_farm_feedlot@hotmail.com
Missouri
Plus, add us to your mailing lists when sending out sale catalogs.
Get ready for upcoming sales!
Send all items to: Editor, Gelbvieh World 10900 Dover St., Westminster, CO 80021 jennifers@gelbvieh.org
Advertise in Gelbvieh World or the Profit Picture
•
Gelbvieh World | 27
Breeder's corner Montana
Mark & Patty Goes
N. Carolina
39414 SW 75th Rd. Odell, NE 68415 (402) 766-3627
Pope Farms Gelbvieh Gelbvieh’s Powerful New Perspective
P
Jeff and Jeanne Pope 26075 Willow Rd., Ravenna, NE 68869 Phone & Fax: (308) 467-BEEF popefarms@nctc.net
www.popefarms.com
Pritchard Gelbvieh
Jeff & Janelle Pritchard
Nebraska J. J. Boehler
70948 L Rd. , Orleans, NE 68966 308-473-7342 • 308-999-0207
50476 817th Road Spalding, NE 68665
Producing Black, Polled Genetics for Today & Tomorrow.
H: 308-497-2249 C: 308-750-1544
Private Treaty Balancer® Bulls Black Bulls with Performance, Calving Ease, Carcass and Function
Jeff Swanson • 308/337-2235 72408 I Road • Oxford, NE 68967 Annual Sale—Last Saturday in February
GELBVIEH
BALANCER
Walter & Lee Teeter 1380 French Belk Rd. • Mt. Ulla, NC 28125 (704) 664-5784
Mick & Dave Ainsworth Annual Sale 1st Monday in February Dale & Jeannette
28 | December 2010
308/826-4771
Mike & Renee
308/233-4704 (C)
23685 Sartoria Rd. • Amherst, NE 68812 www.taubenheimgelbvieh.com
P.O. Box 154, Jackson Springs, NC 27281 910-652-2233 Cell: 910-639-4804
Mick’s email: longleaf@etinternet.net Dave’s email: longleaf@dsslink.net
Ohio
Beastrom Gelbvieh Ranch Registered Gelbvieh & Balancer Cattle Bulls • Heifers • Embryos • Semen
Jim & Barb Beastrom Brandy Ludemann, Brittney Spencer
Ph: 605-224-5789 • 605-280-7589 (Cell) jimbeastrom@mncomm.com • www.beastromranch.com
N. Dakota Chimney Butte Ranch Doug and Carol Hille 701/445-7383
Oklahoma
cj_llivestock@yahoo.com Hermosa, SD Quality Gelbvieh & Balancer® Genetics from a Trusted Source
LeGRAND
3320 51st St., Mandan, ND 58554
chimneybutteranch@westriv.com www.chimneybutteranch.com Annual Production Sale 1st Friday in March
Julie Maude 605.381.2803 (C) Lori Maude 303.809.3789 (C)
Ed LeGrand
809 S. Redlands Rd. • Stillwater, OK 74074
405-747-6950 • alane@c21global.com Homo. Black, Homo. Polled • Breeding Stock Available
34261 200th Street, Highmore, SD 57345 6700 County Rd. 19 S. Minot, ND 58701
Rob Arnold
Exceptional
(701) 624-2051 (H) (701) 720-8823 (C)
BULLS & HEIFERS
Email: RLAGelbvieh@aol.com
TRUCKING AVAILABLE
Registered Gelbvieh & Balancers®
Oregon
Steven A. Munger 605/229-2802 (office) 605/380-0092 (cell) • 605/229-2835 (fax) Nate Munger 605/943-5690 (office) Cowherd Manager 605/380-2582 (cell) www.eaglepassranch.com
Ellison Gelbvieh & Angus Ranch Gelbvieh & Angus & Balancers
Private Treaty Sales • Bulls (Yearling & 2-yr.-old) & Heifers
Mitchel & Edna Ellison
Jeff & Susie Ellison
9020 ND Hwy 49 Lemmon, SD 57638
9015 ND Hwy 49 Lemmon, SD 57638
701.376.3238
701.376.3526
Proven Genetics with Balanced Traits!
Add Pounds. Add Profit.
Hojer
G Gelbvieh elbvieh R Ranch anch
S. Dakota ADKINS GELBVIEH
Gelbvieh & Balancer Performance Genetics Blacks & Reds A select group of heifers available each fall Bulls available year around (605) 354-2428 Cell (605) 546-2058 Home Gerald Adkins
Visit
www.smartcross.org to find out how to Add Pounds and Add Profit to your next calf crop.
402 4th Ave., Iroquois, SD 57353 www.adkinsgelbvieh.com
Juniors! Check www.gelbvieh.org often for show information and results on regional shows and the Junior Classic!
43968 208th Street Lake Preston, SD 57249 605/847-4155 605/860-1326 Alan & Pam Blake, Nikki, Christian
Email: hojerranch@rapiddatasystems.net Website: www.hojergelbviehranch.com
“Performance Genetics for Your Tomorrow”
Promote for Success! Upcoming Advertising Deadlines: February Profit Picture: Dec. 15 March Gelbvieh World: January 25
Call 303-465-2333 today! Gelbvieh World | 29
Breeder's corner
Texas
W L H
LITTLE WINDY HILL
F
Doug & Sue Hughes
QUALITY GELBVIEH CATTLE
Farms
6916 Peppers Ferry Road Max Meadows, VA 24360 H 276/637-3916 C 276/620-4271
Jim & Pat Dromgoole 4403 Winding River Dr. • Richmond, TX 77469 Home
(281) 341-5686 • Ranch (979) 561-8144
www.dromgoolesheaven.com Show Cattle Managers: James & Shannon Worrell • (325) 258-4656
Washington NN Bar Ranch, Inc. Registered Angus, Gelbvieh and Balancers®
Kris, Dawn and Laren Nelson 21200 Watson Road East Creston, WA 99117
509-636-2343
Virginia Ron Hughes 276-637-6493
NN
Email: nnbarranch@accina.com
Brad Hughes 276-637-6071
121A Lavender Dr. Max Meadows, VA 24360 Purebred Gelbvieh & Balancers®–all Black, all Polled
W. Virginia
1800 W. 50th St. • Sioux Falls, SD 57105
Steve Schroeder 605-334-5809 (O) • 605-363-3247 (H)
QUALITY POLLED GELBVIEH Red House, VA 23963
Thorstenson Gelbvieh
Selby, South Dakota Annual Bull Sale 1st Saturday in March Ken & Jo Vaughn & Wendy 605-649-7304 605-649-6262
Office (434) 376-3567 Fax (434) 376-7008 James D. Bennett 434/376-7299 Paul S. Bennett 434/376-5675 Jim G. Bennett 434/376-5760 Brian R. Bennett 434/376-5309
www.Balancerbulls.com
Tennessee Quality Gelbvieh & Balancer® Cattle
Clinch Mountain Gelbvieh
John & Liz Loy (865) 687-1968 (865) 235-8869 (C)
7611 Dyer Rd. Luttrell, TN 37779 j.b.loy@att.net
Bulls & Heifers for Sale
30 | December 2010
Dr. Daryl Wilson Joe & Gwen Wilson Tyler Wilson (276) 628-4163 (276) 676-2242 Registered (276) 614-0117 (C) Gelbvieh Cattle 17462 Fenton Dr., Abingdon, VA 24210 • TrebleWRanch@aol.com
Don’t think you can afford a nice ad in Gelbvieh World? For $297 you can be in every issue for one year! Call Jennifer at the AGA office at
303-465-2333
Are you a livestock photographer, an auctioneer, aspire to be a sale manager or graphic designer? Put your ad in Service Center and promote your services!.
Place your ad today!
303-465-2333
Service center 120 Shadydale Lane • Coppell, TX 75019 972-471-1233 • www.doaklambert.com
Send for catalog listing semen on over 75 bulls Eldon Starr
210 Starr Drive, Stapleton, NE 69163
(308) 587-2348 • 1-800-535-6173 www.bullbarn.com
Subscription Rates: A one-year subscription to Gelbvieh World may be purchased for $35. Members of the AGA pay $35 of their membership dues to receive a subscription to Gelbvieh World. Gelbvieh World mails on or around the 25th of the month prior to publication date. Canada and Mexico - $60 U.S. for one-year. Other foreign - $85 U.S. for one-year.
Ronn Cunningham Auctioneer P.O. Box 146 • Rose, OK 74364 918-479-6410 office/fax 918-629-9382 cellular
Be a part of the upcoming event! See pages 18-19 for information on attending the 40th Anniversary celebration!
Cattlemen’s Connection
Subscription and Advertising Information
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Specializing in
Gelbvieh World Advertising Rates STANDARD ISSUES:
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Advertise Your Operation in Gelbvieh World or the Profit Picture
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Contact Don, Brandon or Steve to discuss your options.
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Photo scans:
• Gelbvieh Semen Sales • Consulting • Order Buying (all purchases guaranteed)
2/3 Page 1/2 Page Isand 1/4 Page Column inch
To run as Black/white Color photos
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Special production such as photo retouching is billed at cost at the rate of $60/hr. Closing Date: Ad materials and editorial deadline is the 25th of the month two months prior to publication date. (December issue deadline is October 25th). Ads for sale dates prior to the 15th of the month of publication are discouraged. For Feb./Oct. (Commercial Editions) and June/July (Herd Reference Edition) please call for rate specials and deadline information.
Call today: 303/465-2333
Don
406/538-5622 Western
Brandon
Steve
970/520-3020 606/688-4492 Central Eastern
advertising content: The Editor and/or the Director of Administration reserve the right to reject any or all advertising on any reasonable basis. Gelbvieh World and/or American Gelbvieh Association assumes no responsibility for the advertising content as submitted. Advertisers assume all responsibility for the accuracy and truthfulness of submitted advertising containing pedigrees or statements regarding performance. Advertisers shall indemnify and hold harmless Gelbvieh World and American Gelbvieh Association for any claims concerning advertising content as submitted.
Gelbvieh World | 31
A New Year, A New Heifer Here’s your chance to win
DBRG BD 1/22/10 Black Polled BW
-.3
WW
42
YW
81
MK
15
TM
36
GL
-2.0
CW
14
RE
.27
MB
.06
DtF
6.5
CV
$24.26
Gray DENOTES TOP 25% or Higher
Ms Twister Classic
018X
Ms Twister Classic is sure to add performance to any program. Her dam weaned Ms Twister Classic at 60% of her body weight and had an adjusted 4.83 MB scan. Ms Twister Classic herself ranks in the top 25% or greater for 7 EPD traits. There are three ways to enter the raffle to win Ms Twister Classic: • Clip the coupon below and return to the AGA office no later than January 2nd • See any AGJA member to purchase tickets - AGJA members can earn rewards for selling tickets • Buy tickets in bulk at the AGA Social during the AGA National Convention
Tickets are $10 each or 6 for $50. All proceeds directly benefit the American Gelbvieh Junior Association and provide funds for the annual Junior Classic and regional shows.
Special thanks to Rippe Gelbvieh, Hubbell, Neb., for donating the 2011 AGJA Fundraiser Heifer. AGJA extends a special thank you to Duane, Brenda, Dustin and Karla Rippe for selecting this nice heifer to benefit AGJA programs. Rippe Gelbvieh is built around moderate framed, functional females selected for a balance of traits. Rippe Gelbvieh scans or receives actual carcass data from approximately 90% of the calves born each year. Their annual bull sale will be March 12, 2011. Visit www.rippegelbvieh.com for more information. Thanks also to Taubenheim Gelbvieh for fitting the heifer to show at the National Western Stock Show.
Donation Heifer Tickets Please send me _______ tickets on the 2011 Donation Heifer. (1 ticket for $10.00 or 6 tickets for $50.00) Name ________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________ Town/State/Zip _ _____________________________________________ Phone _ ______________________________________________________ Make checks payable to AGJA. Clip and mail this coupon with payment to: AGJA, 10900 Dover Street, Westminster, CO 80021
Be There!
July 3-8, 2011 Kearney, Nebraska
Junior Voice junior voice
ATTENTION AGJA MEMBERS: Earn Free Prizes AGJA wants to reward you for working for your organization and selling tickets for the 2011 Fundraiser Heifer. Funds from the heifer support AGJA all year to fund national and regional shows, promote AGJA at events like National FFA Convention, and make AGJA and Gelbvieh promotional brochures. AGJA members can download extra tickets to sell at www.gelbvieh.org. All tickets must be returned to the AGA office at 10900 Dover St., Westminster, CO 80021 by January 2. Contact AGJA Advisor Dana Stewart at danas@gelbvieh.org for additional information. Who might be interested in buying tickets? Your feed co-op, your 4-H or FFA instructor, your grandparents and family, your show heifer supplier – just to name a few! Don’t forget that tickets make great stocking stuffers, too.
Extra incentives for AGJA members
• Sell at least 10 tickets and get an AGJA vinyl decal for your showbox or trailer • Sell 20 tickets and get a Gelbvieh embroidered beanie hat • Sell 30 tickets and get an AGJA judging notebook • Sell 40 tickets and get an AGJA windshirt. PLUS: The top 2 salespersons will receive gift certificates to Wendy’s Custom Creations for your choice of personalized item!
New Members new members New Junior members who joined in the month of October.
Junior Members Alabama Peyton Thompson, Houston
Montana Corbin Disney, Stevensville
Gelbvieh World | 33
Sales sales White Brothers Complete Herd Dispersal
Bluegrass Gelbvieh Invitational Sale
September 25, 2010 • Lathrop, Mo. Auctioneer: Phil Schooley Report by: Seedstock Plus 3 1 36 11 27 16
Herd Sires Donor Dam & Embryos Fall Breds/Pairs Fall Open Heifers Spring Breds Spring Pairs
$13,717 $2,800 $2,217 $1,132 $1,717 $2,922
Definitely one of the ‘must-go-to’ events of the fall of 2010 – buyers from 13 states were in attendance or on the phone to purchase females from the White Brothers herd dispersal. Topping the offering was the Balancer® Herd Sire – TAU Mr. Krugerrand 70M 130P. Purchasing possession as well as the semen interest, Mulroy Farms LLC of Mayetta, Kan., was the final bid winner at $25,750. Mulroy Farms was also the purchaser of the OZZ EXT Govenor 3N Herd Sire at $12,500. Topping the females for the day was the Lot 72 fall bred cow at $5,000. This prolific producer of herd sire candidates has a new home in the donor program with the partnership of CJSD Gelbvieh, Bar T Bar Ranch and Burbank Cattle Company. The next high-selling lot was the spring pair 160 & 160A at $3,850 total. The homozygous black Balancer 3-year-old cow sired by BTBR Mr Black Cross 3002N ET sold to Diamond Mill Iron Gelbvieh of Oktaha, Okla. Her fancy homozygous black Mytty In Focus heifer calf sold to Greg Cameron of Danville, Iowa. The high selling spring bred female was the Lot 123 – TAU Mr Krugerrand 70M 130P daughter. This Balancer female went to Warner Beef Genetics, Arapahoe, Neb., at $3,800. A fancy purebred Gelbvieh ‘Govenor’ daughter was the top selling fall open heifer at $1,400. Chris Wade of Ava, Mo., took home the Lot 117 to add to his program. Other top selling lots that day include Lot 92 & 92A. This powerful Balancer female and her bull calf brought $3,300 and sold to Walnut Ridge Gelbvieh in Republic, Mo. The Lot 148 & 148A homozygous black Balancer cow and her ‘Kruger’ heifer calf were the second high selling spring pair at $3,350. They both sold to Hilltop Farms from Asbury, Mo. 34 | December 2010
September 18, 2010 • Mount Sterling, Ky. Auctioneer: Todd Barlow Sale Manager: Slaughter Sale Management Report by: David Slaughter
Lot 1, GBNR Sampson 973W, was the high selling bull at the Bluegrass Gelbvieh Sale for $9,500.
Sale Average
$2,625
An enthusiastic crowd gathered at the 12th Bluegrass Gelbvieh Sale in Mt. Sterling, Ky. This sale offering proved to be one of the best overall qualities yet.
Seedstock Plus Showcase Sale V & 2nd Annual Customer Appreciation Sale September 25, 2010 Lathrop, Mo. Auctioneer: Phil Schooley Report by: Seedstock Plus 4
Pick of the Herd Opportunities $2,163
13 Fall Breds/Pairs
$2,262
20 Spring Breds
$2,218
14 Open Heifers
$1,207
A rainy sale day capped off a rainy week for the Showcase Sale V but that didn’t deter the breeders and buyers from having a great sale! The high selling female of the day was Lot 31 – a fancy red, homozygous polled HFGC HF Roscoe 34P59 ET daughter. Bred to Top Brass for her first calf, this purebred Gelbvieh female was consigned by Hart Farms of Kansas City, Kan., and was purchased by The Dromgoole’s Heaven, Richmond, Texas for $4,500. The second high-selling female was
Topping the sale was the Lot 1 bull, GBNR Sampson 973W, consigned by Bar None Ranch. This homozygous black, homozygous polled Maverick son generated a great deal of excitement and is destined to be a breed mover. He sold for
Lot 38 – a red Balancer® female sired by NL Red Northern Rob Roy 122K. This powerful female was consigned by JGP Gelbvieh, Lathrop, Mo., and sold to The Dromgoole’s Heaven, for $4,000. Another red female was the next high-selling lot. Burbank Cattle Company consigned the Lot 13 female, a fall bred Balancer sired by MSG GP Momentum 130. Due any day to the Angus sire, Final Objective – this broody female sold to VanWinkle Farms, Neosho, Mo., for $3,500. A DCSF Post Rock Top Brass daughter was the next high-selling female in the sale. Bringing her fancy little ‘Roscoe’ heifer calf to the sale, the purebred Gelbvieh fall pair was consigned by Hart Farms and sold to Bar IV Livestock, Cold Springs, Ky., for $3,300. The top selling Pick of the Herd opportunity was the pick of the 2009 born bred heifers from Brandywine Farms. It sold to South Texas Gelbvieh, Castroville, Texas for $3,000. The top selling open heifer was the Pick of the Herd opportunity from Sandy Knoll Farms. It sold for $2,750 and went to CJSD Gelbvieh in Bradford, Ohio.
Sales sales 50 percent possession and 50 percent semen for $9,500 to D & W Farms. Lot 3, Rocky 90W, consigned by Gentle G Farm was the pick of many, selling for $3,200 to Padon Farms. This black, homozygous polled son of CTR Highlight 066K is an ET calf from the highly proven EGL P016 donor. Topping the females was Lot 31/31A at $5,000. This Bennett Ideal female was the kind breeders are looking for. Single Tree Farms picked up the cow with her BKK O’Charlie heifer calf going to ClayJohn Farms. Next high seller was Lot 29/29A from Lazy S Gelbvieh. This pair is destined for the donor pen. This full sister to the Lazy S herd sire, King Solomon, sold to C-Cross Cattle for $3,850. Lots 13 and 14 tied for high selling bred heifers. This pair of bred ET sisters sired by CTR Highlight 066K found a new home with Soldier Creek Gelbviehs for $2,950 each.
KY-TN Fall Gelbvieh Classic October 23, 2010 Bowling Green, Ky. Auctioneer: Todd Barlow Sale Management: Slaughter Sale Management Report by: David Slaughter Sale Average
$2,371
A large crowd gathered at Bowling Green, Ky., for the annual KY-TN Fall Gelbvieh Classic. Breeders offered an outstanding set of Gelbvieh and Balancer® cattle that sold into five states. Topping the sale was Lot 1, Mason 14W. This homozygous black, homozygous polled son of Maverick combined exceptional personal performance with EPD strength and eye appeal that positions him to be a breed improver. Larry Clark and JenJoe Farms joined to purchase possession and 50 percent semen interest for $15,250. Semen packages added $8,000 to the sale price, selling to Bar None Ranch, Coles Bend Cattle, Eagle Pass Ranch, Gentle G Farm,
McIntosh Brothers, Padon Farms, and Pleasant Meadows Farm. The combined value for Mason 14W totaled at $23,250. Lot 3, Jackson, consigned by Hebron Ranch was the next high selling bull at $2,400. David Norton picked up this powerful homozygous black Tenderloin son. Bar None Ranch brought a powerful, black Collateral cow with a Hero bull calf at side. McIntosh Brothers picked up this crowd favorite for $5,000. Pleasant Meadows consigned the next high selling cow/calf pair at $3,350. This black Fosters female had raised a tremendous Maverick heifer calf. Tim Napier was the successful bidder. Bar None Ranch picked up the top selling bred cow, Lot 33, at $2,200. This Freedom daughter was consigned by Lazy S Gelbvieh. Open heifers were also in demand with the Lot 6 Maverick heifer bringing $2,800. The Lot 8 Highlight heifer’s final bid came in at $2,000. Mike Moore of Gentle G picked up both of these fancy females.
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Shows shows American Royal Gelbvieh Ring of Gold Show October 23, 2010 Judge: Travis Pembrook, Fairview, Okla.
Grand Champion Gelbvieh Female TFIK Whitney 251W ET David Rea, Berthoud, Colo. Sire: RTRT Solution
Grand Champion Gelbvieh Bull HFGC HART 35W3 Bob Hart, Kansas City, Kan. Sire: HFGC HF Roscoe 34P59 ET
Reserve Grand Champion Gelbvieh Female BDCG DC Wilma 147W Seth Beying, Leavenworth, Kan. Sire: TAU MR Kruggerand 70M 130P
Reserve Grand Champion Gelbvieh Bull GGGE 3G Excalibur 055X ET Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind. Sire: SLC Freedom 178F
Gelbvieh Spring Heifer Calf Champion JDPD 46 5X ET Dromgoole’s Heaven, Mason, Texas Sire: EBY Western Hauler
36 | December 2010
Gelbvieh Reserve Spring Heifer Calf Champion TMGG Fantasia Tiana Garcia, Las Animas, Colo. Sire: JRI Extra Exposure 285L71 ET
Gelbvieh Junior Heifer Calf Champion GGGE 3G X-Factor 014X Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind. Sire: 3G Time Machine 758T ET
Gelbvieh Reserve Junior Heifer Calf Champion DTKF Faith’s Passion Thomas Posusta, Janesville, Iowa Sire: JRI Top Grid
Shows shows
Grand Champion Balancer Female GGGE 3G Cowgirl Wisdom 951 Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind. Sire: 3G Smoke N Mirrors
Grand Champion Balancer Bull GGGE 3G Warlock 928W Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind. Sire: 3G Smoke N Mirrors
Reserve Grand Champion Balancer Female PMG Uma 802U ET Tricia Goes, Odell, Neb. Sire: CA Future Direction 5321
Reserve Grand Champion Balancer Bull DLW Red Power 583U Warner Beef Genetics & Cedar Top Ranch, Beaver City, Neb. Sire: LCC Gravity B252L
Gelbvieh Senior Heifer Calf Champion CIRS 12XLW2 John Shearer, Canton, Kan. Sire: DLGG 30S “Stinger”
Gelbvieh Reserve Senior Heifer Calf Champion RLKL RL Lady Dakota Ricky Linquist, Fonda, Iowa Sire: ACKG Dakota 3T
Gelbvieh Intermediate Heifer Calf Champion JDPD Burnadette 195 W Dromgoole’s Heaven, Mason, Texas Sire: RTRM Headline 890202
Gelbvieh Reserve Intermediate Heifer Calf Champion LCC Miss Redgreen 153W Chandler Ladner, Argonia, Kan. Sire: Redgreen Continued on page 38
Gelbvieh World | 37
Shows shows
Continued from page 37
American Royal
Gelbvieh Champion Cow-Calf Pair HFGC Vickie Vail 173T22 Lazy C Cattle Co., Leawood, Kan. Sire: HFGC HF Roscoe 34P59 ET
Gelbvieh Reserve Spring Bull Calf Champion RLKL RL Horse Ricky Linquist, Fonda, Iowa Sire: ELK CK Crazy Horse 138P
Gelbvieh Junior Bull Calf Champion CIRS 31X John Shearer, Canton, Kan. Sire: CIRS Alternating Current
Gelbvieh Reserve Junior Bull Calf Champion KKKG XPack 270X Triple K Gelbvieh, Bonner Springs, Kan. Sire: KIT Tabasco J26ET
Gelbvieh Reserve Senior Bull Calf Champion RLKL RL Gambler ET Ricky Linquist, Fonda, Iowa Sire: RAW Mississippi Gambler
Gelbvieh Intermediate Bull Champion KKKG Whodat 262W Triple K Gelbvieh, Bonner Springs, Kan. Sire: GKT BooBoo 155E
Balancer Spring Heifer Calf Champion DLW Ms 009X Dan Warner, Beaver City, Neb. Sire: CTR Good Night 715T
Balancer Reserve Spring Heifer Calf Champion TBKN Cowgirl Style 69X2 Tyler Beenken, Buckingham, Iowa Sire: Cowboy Troy
Balancer Junior Heifer Calf Champion AHL Countess 002X LeDoux Ranch, Agenda, Kan. Sire: XXB Wingman 639T ET
Balancer Reserve Junior Heifer Calf Champion AHL Trixie 027X LeDoux Ranch, Agenda, Kan. Sire: HXC LCC Gravity B252L
Balancer Senior Heifer Calf Champion EBY Miss 7294T 9229W Chandler Ladner, Argonia, Kan. Sire: S A V Bismark
Balancer Reserve Senior Heifer Calf Champion HFGC Diamonds Diva 115W40 ET Bob Hart, Kansas City, Kan. Sire: Mytty In Focus
Balancer Reserve Junior Yearling Heifer Champion BVLK Martini Britney Volek, Highmore, S.D. Sire: MAF Antidote 5775
Balancer Senior Female Champion AHL Sunset 101U Tricia Goes, Odell, Neb. Sire: SAF Connection
Balancer Spring Bull Calf Champion DTKF Revolution Thomas Posusta, Janesville, Iowa Sire: DTKF Faith’s Chester 121U ET
Balancer Junior Bull Calf Champion GGGE 3G Expedition E019X Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind. Sire: KF Precision 361
38 | December 2010
Shows shows American Royal
Tulsa State Fair
October 2, 2010 • Tulsa, Okla.
Balancer Reserve Junior Bull Calf Champion AHL Heisman 012X LeDoux Ranch, Agenda, Kan. XXB Wingman 639T ET
Grand Champion Gelbvieh Female JDPD Burnadette Dromgoole’s Heaven, Mason, Texas
Grand Champion Gelbvieh Bull DMC Ranger 143X15 Martin Cattle Company, Judsonia, Ark.
Reserve Grand Champion Gelbvieh Female HMR Tawny’s Diva Hailey Robertson, Lamar, Mo.
Reserve Grand Champion Gelbvieh Bull GALG Gunner 61X4 Gallaway Gelbvieh, Mulhall, Okla.
Grand Champion Balancer Female HCCG Ms Kami 10W10 Morgan Winchester, Jasper, Mo.
Grand Champion Balancer Bull JDPD Midnight Oil 06W Dromgoole’s Heaven, Mason, Texas
Reserve Grand Champion Balancer Female JDPD 46SX Dromgoole’s Heaven, Mason, Texas
Reserve Grand Champion Balancer Bull JDPD 46SW1 Dromgoole’s Heaven, Mason, Texas
Balancer Senior Bull Calf Champion AHL 906W LeDoux Ranch, Agenda, Kan. Sire: HXC Jackhammer
Balancer Reserve Senior Bull Calf Champion LCC 29W Chandler Ladner, Argonia, Kan. Sire: Redgreen
Balancer Reserve Junior Bull Champion JDPD Midnight Oil 06W ET Dromgoole’s Heaven, Mason, Texas Sire: SAV 8180 Traveler 004 Not Pictured: Balancer Reserve Senior Female Champion DLW Ms 412U Dan Warner, Beaver City, Neb. Sire: CTR Stapleton Produce of Dam: Chandler Ladner, Argonia, Kan. Get-of-Sire: Dawson Creek Gelbvieh, Leavenworth, Kan. Best Four Head: Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind.
Gelbvieh World | 39
An Interview with
AGA President Al Knapp In a September 1974 issue of The Gelbvieh Magazine, an interview with Jack McDermott, AGA Vice President from Sonara, Texas was published. Some of those questions are still pertinent today. In honor of the 40th anniversary celebration of the American Gelbvieh Association and for his president’s profile, we asked current AGA President, Al Knapp of Triple K Gelbvieh in Bonner Springs, Kan., some of those same questions, some updated versions of the original questions, along with a few news ones. Al is finishing up his six years on the AGA board, including one year as president. GW: Original Question: How do you feel about the growth of the Gelbvieh breed in this country to date in relation to numbers and interest? Al: The Gelbvieh breed continues to be of great interest to many cow-calf operators. The last few years have seen a significant decline in the numbers of cows in the pasture. The global economic slowdown, high feed costs, high land costs and low cattle prices have been the culprit. More recently, higher than normal cull cow prices have driven more cows out of the pasture. Gelbvieh cow numbers have shrunk as well. As the global economy returns, beef demand will again rise and the cow numbers will come back up. Gelbvieh is well positioned and has an incredible opportunity to gain market share. GW: Original Question: What does Gelbvieh have to offer the North American Beef Industry? Al: I don’t know the answer given 40 years ago but more than likely I would expect the same answer. Milk, muscle and maternal traits have always been Gelbvieh traits relevant to and desired by the beef industry. Forty years later we find those traits are still important along with improved calving ease, lower birth weights, and smaller mature cow size. The beef industry has come to realize the value of docility, another Gelbvieh trait. As input costs go up, efficiency becomes more important. We have all seen efficiency defined in many ways but the best is: pounds of calf weaned per cow exposed. When you stop to think about it, it really is all about the cow side and there is no better momma cow than a Gelbvieh. GW: Original Question: What can Gelbvieh breeders, or the American Gelbvieh Association, do to promote and create interest in the breed? Al: Promote the maternal side. The Maternal Edge Sales are a great example. I have said it before – I love to sell a bull to a customer. However, if I can sell them a female and they take that animal home and see what it does in comparison to whatever they may have in the pasture they will become a Gelbvieh enthusiast. The AGA and member breeders need to promote the Gelbvieh female. The AGA and many breeders are always getting calls for Gelbvieh females. I believe there is an opportunity to develop Gelbvieh influenced heifers and sell them as breds. I have offered to buy the top end of my 40 | December 2010
bull customer’s females at steer prices and do this very thing as a value added service. GW: Original question: To what would you attribute the price record-breaking success that Gelbvieh has had at public auctions in relation to the other, more established new breeds at the same stage of development? This question can be updated to reflect today’s times: To what would you attribute the success of Gelbvieh sales – on average more Gelbvieh influenced cattle sold at higher averages – across the country this past year? Al: I believe the industry is awakening to the benefits of crossbreeding. CAB is a hugely successful marketing program. It added hundreds of dollars to the value of black hided cattle. Today, there are so many black cattle out there that the premium has declined. The Choice-Select spread has deteriorated with the overall economy. The genetic defects, recently identified in the major breeds, have sent many breeders in search of alternatives. Many cow-calf operators that had bred straight Angus for the last several years are awakening to crossbreeding, heterosis and cow efficiencies. There even seems to be a regional demand for red cattle. All of these issues have led to a solid demand for Gelbvieh genetics. GW: Original question: What will happen in four or five years when the number of percentage-blood Gelbvieh increase? Updated question: Where do you see the direction of the breed heading in the next five years? Al: Up, Up and Up. We have a ways to go to be the Continental Breed of Choice. However, I believe it’s in our reach and working together as breeders through the AGA we can achieve this goal. GW: Original question: When the association reaches its 1000 member mark, the magic number, is that an indication that the breed is established or that from there the breed will be established. Is there any relationship? Updated question: What would be today’s magic number or benchmark to reach for the American Gelbvieh Association? Al: Membership is important but cow numbers is what pays the bills at the AGA. As the national cow herd has shrunk so has the number of operators. The US Beef Industry has lost 250,000 cow calf operators since 1987. Herds with less than 50 cows now make up 80 percent of the operations but only have 28 percent of the cows. Herds over 100 cows make up 11 percent of the operators but these herds have 50 percent of the cows. It’s also important to note that only 15 percent of these cow-calf operators depend on cattle as their primary income. The AGA needs all of it’s members and we need our larger breeders because we need their cows and associated assessments. About 80 percent of the AGA’s annual revenue and operating budget comes from herd assessments. The AGA needs 50,000 cow assessments annually. That is the benchmark and magic number we should keep in mind. GW: What are the goals of Triple K Gelbvieh? Al: We are one of those small herds that do not rely solely on cattle for our living. I would like to say my hats off to those of you that do, because we know how tough it is to make money in the cattle business. Our goal at Triple K Gelbvieh is to produce quality Gelbvieh genetics that work in the pasture. We believe in A.I., and strive to stay balanced with our EPDs. We have done a fair amount of ET work with our best cows and have had success in this area. We are too close to Kansas City to be able to see longevity from future generations as we will not always be able to continue in this location and I am getting to old to even think about starting over in a new location. Someday, somebody will raise houses instead of Gelbvieh on this place. So in the meantime we continue to do our best and to treat others the way we would want to be treated. Life’s too short to do otherwise. GW: What is your greatest accomplishment, either with Triple K Gelbvieh or on a personal level? Al: God has blessed me in so many ways I don’t even know where to begin. Let’s start with four handsome grandsons, two beautiful daughters, two great sons-in-law, one handsome
Continued on page 42
Gelbvieh World | 41
Al Knapp ...continued from page 41
son, and a wonderful wife, who’s my best friend, helper, and “Barn Goddess”. I have lots of friends, many of them in the Gelbvieh breed. I am blessed to have loving parents still with me and a little brother that would do anything, any time I ask. I have the opportunity to do work that I love and raise Gelbvieh in my spare time. I live in the greatest nation on earth and enjoy freedoms that were not free, sacrificed by many. I have a 1955 International R-100 pickup that’s been in the family since it was new that we have had rebuilt into a street rod. We won best Pro Street at the 2009 National Truck Classic. It was featured in Custom Classic Trucks in January 2010. We have a wall covered with awards, plaques and ribbons from over the years as a reminder of the success we have had in raising Gelbvieh. And I am proud to have been your AGA President. GW: Who is your mentor? Al: A splash of Stuart Jarvis, JJ Boehler, Rick Soelzer, John Shearer, Andy LeDoux, Roger Gatz, Skyler Martin, Bill Wilkinson, Grant Thayer, Sam Castlebury, Randy Galloway, Mark Goes, Jim Beastrom, Randy Sienknecht, Steve Munger, Dave Judd, Bob Hart, Vaughn Thorstenson, Butch Stuckey, Chris Mitchell, Dick Helms, John Burbank, Bob Beying, Bob Prosser, Ronn Cuningham, Dan Warner, Brad Ridinger and Steve Buffo; with a pinch of Josh Phillips, Adam Verner, Brandon McEndaffer, Kalen Moore, and Dustin Aherin; a tablespoon of Cole Buffo; a cup of family, with a touch of many others. And a whole heap of Jesus my Lord. After all, we are a mixture of those that touch our lives. GW: What excites you about the Gelbvieh breed? Al: The Cows and the Breeders! Great Cows, Great People! The Best is Ahead! GW: As we reflect back on the last 40 years of the American Gelbvieh Association, what would you say has been the greatest accomplishment of the AGA? Of the Gelbvieh breed? Al: Innovation! The AGA has been on the cutting edge of the beef industry – the first hybrid registry, the Balancer® program, the SmartCross program®, Gelbvieh Profit Partners, a strict genetic defect policy, our matrix organization, and now Southern Balancer™. The beef industry is changing. We can lead, follow or get run over. The AGA and its Board of Directors have been innovative and unafraid to take the lead. We must continue to seek to add value for our membership. GW: What advice would you give to someone looking to get started in the AGA or the AGJA? Al: Buy a good one! And get involved! AGJA attend the National Classic! AGA members attend the Convention! GW: What challenges are facing the breed today and how can we overcome those challenges? Al: Relevance is the biggest near term challenge. The Gelbvieh breed (the cows) depends on us, the breeders. If we fail to promote the breed (the cattle), the Gelbvieh breed will lose market share and become an irrelevant breed. We have an excellent opportunity to grow this breed over the next few years and gain market share as the economy recovers. We must work together as members of the AGA to keep moving forward. The AGA must continue to look for new and innovative services it can provide for its members. The AGA must add value to each and every calf raised. Long term, I have concerns about the sustainability of all breed associations. The advancement in DNA may someday allow the replacement of EPDs with genetic trait markers. The DNA companies maybe in a position to replace breed associations as a place for registry and performance indicators. If this happens, breed associations may only exist to promote their breed and add value in the market place.
42 | December 2010
GW: What have you enjoyed most during your six years on the AGA Board of Directors? Al: The friendship and bonding with fellow board members past and present who possess the same passion for Gelbvieh. The prime rib dinners prepared in the AGA kitchen for Friday night board meetings! I’ve enjoyed the personal growth and learning opportunity by being involved and working with the great staff at the AGA. What’s the hardest thing I’ve have had to do while on the AGA Board of Directors? Answer these questions!
Gelbvieh World | 43
Places to Be places to be December 2010 Dec. 4 Eagle Pass Ranch Female Sale, Highmore, SD Dec. 4 Little Windy Hell Farms You-Pick-Em Bull Sale, Max Meadows, VA Dec. 8-9 “Create Your Future” Seminar, Kansas City, MO Dec. 11 SEGA Gelbvieh & Friends Fall Female Sale, Pierce, CO Dec. 15 DEADLINE: February Profit Picture January 2011 Jan. 7-8 AGA Annual Convention and 40th Anniversary Celebration, Denver, CO Jan. 8 National Gelbvieh Junior Heifer Show, Denver, CO Jan. 9 National Gelbvieh & Balancer Pen Show, Denver, CO Jan. 9 National Gelbvieh & Balancer Sale, 1 P.M., Livestock Center Auction Arena, Denver, CO Jan. 10 National Gelbvieh & Balancer Show, Denver, CO Jan. 25 DEADLINE: March Gelbvieh World Jan. 29 Lemke Cattle Bull Sale, Lawrence, NE Jan. 31 North Dakota “Golden Rule” Sale, Mandan, ND February 2011 Feb. 1 Warner Beef Genetics Annual Bull & Female Sale, Arapahoe, NE Feb. 5 LeDoux Ranch Production Sale, Agenda, KS Feb. 7 Taubenheim Gelbvieh 21st Annual Production Sale, Amherst, NE
44 | December 2010
Feb. 15 Cedar Top Ranch Annual Production Sale, Burwell, NE Feb. 15 Iowa Beef Expo Gelbvieh Gold Sale, Des Moines, IA Feb. 18 Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic Gelbvieh/Balancer Bull & Female Sale, Kearney, NE Feb. 23 Grund Beef Genetics Annual Bull Sale, Oakley, KS Feb. 25 Pot of Gold 20th Annual Gelbvieh, Angus & Balancer Bull Sale, Olathe, CO Feb. 26 Schafer Farms, Inc. 26th Annual Bull Sale, Goodhue, MN Feb. 26 Swanson Cattle Co. 24th Annual Production Sale, Oxford, NE Feb. 28 Beastrom Gelbvieh 31st Annual Bull Sale, Fort Pierre, SD March 2011 Mar. 4 Handel Farms 18th Annual Bull & Female Sale, Platte, SD Mar. 5 Judd Ranch 33rd Gelbvieh, Balancer & Red Angus Bull Sale, Pomona, KS Mar. 5 Thorstenson Gelbvieh & Angus Annual Bull Sale, Mobridge, SD Mar. 5 Flying H Genetics 31st Annual Roughage ‘N Ready Herd Bull Sale, Arapahoe, NE Mar. 5 Davidson Gelbvieh & Lonesome Dove Ranch 22nd Annual Bull Sale, Swift Current, Saskatchewan Mar. 6 MN Gelbvieh Association 13th Annual State Opportunity Sale, Albany, MN Mar. 6 McCabe Cattle Co./Two-Step Ranch Annual Bull Sale, Dyersville, IA Mar. 7 Hojer Gelbvieh Ranch Annual Production Sale, Huron, SD
Ad Index ad index 2R-2B Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Diamond L Farms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Kittle Gelbvieh Farms . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Plateau Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
3 G Ranch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Dromgoole’s Heaven. . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Knoll Crest Farm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Pope Farms Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Adkins Gelbvieh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Eagle Pass Ranch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Lambert, Doak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Post Rock Cattle Company. . . . . . . . 9
AGA Area Coordinators. . . . . . . . . . 13
Ellison Gelbvieh & Angus Ranch. . . 29
Ledgerwood Gelbvieh . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Pritchard Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
B/F Cattle Company. . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Flying H Genetics. . . . . . . . . . . 28, 48
Lemke Cattle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15, 28
Register Farms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Bar Arrow Cattle Company. . . . 17, 27
Gelbvieh Bull Barn . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Leonhardt Cattle Company. . . . . . . 30
Bar IV Livestock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Gelbvieh Guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Linquist Farms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Rippe Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Bar T Bar Ranch, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Gelbvieh Profit Partners. . . . . . . . . . 25
Little Windy Hill Farms. . . . . . . . . . 30
Beastrom Gelbvieh Ranch. . . . . . . . 29
Goettlich Gelbvieh Ranch. . . . . . . . 28
Lone Oak Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Blackhawk Cattle Company. . . . . . 26
Golden Buckle Gelbvieh . . . . . . . . . 29
Longleaf Station. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Boehler Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Goldux Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
M&P Gelbvieh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6, 28
Bow K Ranch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Green Hills Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Maple Hill Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Brandywine Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
GS Ridge Top Ranch. . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Markes Family Farms. . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Cattlemen’s Connection. . . . . . . . 5, 31
H & H Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Martin Cattle Company . . . . . . . . . 26
C-Cross Cattle Company. . . . . . . . . 28
Handel Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
McCabe Cattle Co./Two Step Ranch. . 26
Cedar Top Ranch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Hart Farm Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Merial Igenity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Chimney Butte Ranch. . . . . . . . . . . 29
Hartland Farm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Middle Creek Farms . . . . . . . . . 28, 33
Circle S Ranch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Hill Top Haven Farm. . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Miller Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
CJ&L Livestock. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Hodges Ranch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Mitchell Marketing Service . . . . . . . 31
Clinch Mountain Gelbvieh . . . . . . . 30
Hojer Gelbvieh Ranch. . . . . . . . . . . 29
MLM Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Treble W Ranch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Cranview Gelbvieh . . . . . . . . . . 29, 46
J & K Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
National CUP Lab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Triple K Gelbvieh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Cunningham, Ronn. . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
J Bar M Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
National Sale. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Warner Beef Genetics. . . . . . . . 14, 28
D & W Farms, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Judd Ranch, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
NN Bar Ranch, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . 30
White Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Danell Diamond Six Ranch. . . . . . . 28
Jumping Cow Gelbvieh. . . . . . . 26, 47
NS Ranch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Wildwood Acres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
DDM Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Kicking Horse Ranch. . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Pearson Cattle Company. . . . . . . . . 30
Wilkinson Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Riverview Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Rogers Valley Farm Gelbvieh. . . . . . 27 Rotert/Harriman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Schafer Farms, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Schroeder Ranch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Seedstock Plus Genetics. . . . . . . . . . 31 Seedstock Plus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Slaughter Sale Management. . . . . . . . 7 Swanson Cattle Company. . . . . . . . 28 Taubenheim Gelbvieh. . . . . . . . 28, 43 The 88 Ranch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Thorstenson Gelbvieh . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Gelbvieh World | 45