Making Connections at Convention

Making Connections at Convention

by Cody Forbes

“Have you ever flown before?” “Were you nervous?” These seemed to be common questions I got as I prepared to make my way to Billings, Montana, for the 49th Annual American Gelbvieh Association National Convention. For me the answers were “no” and “yes.” I was nervous. My biggest fear was getting through the Denver airport without getting lost and making it to my next flight on time. Luckily, things were easier than anticipated and I made my flight with plenty of time to spare. When I arrived in Billings, I was greeted by some of the nicest people and was able to get to the hotel before the afternoon meetings took place. I was extremely excited to take part in the annual convention and, more so, to be surrounded by people that share the same love and desire for the Gelbvieh breed as I do.

During my time in Billings, along with fellow junior board members, I was able to sit in on numerous conversations that pertained to the Gelbvieh breed, as well as issues that we as cattlemen face every day within the industry. We had the opportunity to ask questions and engage in great conversation. We were heard. We also had the privilege to listen to speakers that work in different sectors of the industry and learn more about the research they have found and how it has made a positive or negative impact on the industry throughout the years. We heard from several committees within the association such as the sale, show and finance committees. The junior board presented their annual budget to the adult board for approval and discussed their goals for the upcoming year. We even got to join the adults in their tour of Origen, World West Sire Service and Midland Bull Test where we saw Gelbvieh cattle that data was being collected on. The week was chock-full of useful information, and I am extremely thankful that I was able to take part in it.

We were set to take it back to where it all began in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, in 2020 for the 50th anniversary but were forced to transition to a virtual convention due to restrictions surrounding COVID-19. Things are looking better in 2021 and I would like to take this opportunity to invite you all to the 2021 AGA National Convention and 50th Anniversary Celebration taking place in downtown Oklahoma City, December 8-10. Whether you have attended numerous conventions in the past or this will be your first time attending (or flying), I encourage you to consider the opportunity to attend. It is a great way to meet and interact with new people and learn more about things you may be interested in. If you are someone who would like to run for the junior board this is a great opportunity for you to come and learn more about what we do and see firsthand the experiences and opportunities that we are provided as junior members. Even if you’re not interested in running for the board, but are a junior in the beef industry, I encourage you to consider attending the convention. The conversations you’ll sit in on, the people you’ll meet, and the experiences you will be provided within this breed are unlike any others.

For me, this convention will be bittersweet as another door closes on my junior career with the Gelbvieh Association. I am extremely grateful for the association and the opportunities that it has given me throughout the years, and I am looking forward to seeing all of you in Oklahoma City in December!