February 2021 Newsletter of the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Coop

February 2021 President’s Message – Nancy Burton

As I sit in my recliner, with the movie Double Jeopardy on the TV, I cannot help but to think about how fast the first month of this new year is going. It is hard to believe we only have a week left to it. A lot has happened this first month of 2021. We have a new President, they have released a vaccine for Covid-­‐19, and the WSBC is planning activities for the year. We are also stepping into the virtual world along with many others that have in the past year.

WSBC now has Zoom which is a means for us to connect virtually. We will be using this format for this year’s Annual Meeting. So, please make sure you read the article in this newsletter about the date and time that the meeting will be taking place. I am personally inviting all the membership to join us.

Also, we will be voting on new board members. We have one board member running for another term, Doug Wilson of Shawano, and some new faces. All their bios should be included in this newsletter. Please take the time to read up on them. We will be voting at the Annual Meeting on these nominees to the Board of Directors.

As many of you are probably in full lambing mode, I hope all is going well. The Broad is going to be working on some producer programming. The Education Committee is working on various ideas of topics. If you have any suggestions, please email them to us using the WSBC email. We will make sure they get to the Education Committee. We want these to be interactive as much as we can make them. This will include using Zoom to put on interactive webinars.

If you are looking for a unique gift for someone please visit the Wisconsin Wool Works!

Website. This website started out as an extension of the Wisconsin Wool Works! Booth that is locate at the Wisconsin State Fair located in the Sheep Barn. Unfortunately, because the Wisconsin State Fair was not able to go this past year, we wanted our consignors to still be able to sell their goods. Hence, the birth of the WWW website, but we are now taking it to new heights. Please take the time to check out the website and “like” our Facebook page.

Lastly, I just want to remind everyone that we are all in this together. I know that times are very tough and the fact that we cannot physically be together for various activities at this time makes it even more challenging but that does not mean that we should not be courteous in our communication with one another. As the Bible verse Mark 12:31 says, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” For those of you not familiar with this verse, simply point, we should respect one another and regard their needs and desires as much as we regard our own. We should be respecting each other’s choices and we should not be cutting each other down because we make choices that we may or may not like. It is okay to voice your opinion but please let us make sure we are doing it in a calm and constructive way. We should not be cutting each other down. Unfortunately, we have ran into this issue with some of our membership and volunteers and the Board will be looking at this issue and how we will be handling it in the future.

Again, good luck to all of you with your lambing season. I cannot wait to see pictures on Facebook and Instagram. If there is anything you would like to talk to me about, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at nzernicke@gmail.com.

Leading Into the Future 2020 has been a long and challenging year for all of us, but it’s potentially the best learning experience of our lives. Whether we like the decisions of our leaders or we don’t, it’s in our collective best interest to work together to support the common goals.

In honor of President’s Day in February and with our upcoming election of three new members of the WSBC Board of Directors, we’re taking a look at the importance of strong, fair and inspired leadership qualities. A leader is someone who can see how things can be improved and who rallies people to help move toward that better vision. Good leaders work toward making their vision a reality while putting people first by being empathetic and connecting with people to be successful. Leaders don’t have to come from the same background or follow the same path to help us meet our goals.

Thomas Jefferson: "Whenever you do a thing, act as if all the world were watching."

John Quincy Adams: "If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader."

Andrew Jackson: "Any man worth his salt will stick up for what he believes right, but it takes a slightly better man to acknowledge instantly and without reservation that he is in error."

Martin Van Buren: "It is easier to do a job right than to explain why you didn't."

Abraham Lincoln: "Leave nothing for tomorrow which can be done today."

Theodore Roosevelt: "It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed."

Franklin D. Roosevelt: "The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today"

Harry S. Truman: "It's amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit."

Dwight D. Eisenhower: "By leadership we mean the art of getting someone else to do something that you want done because he wants to do it, not because your position of power can compel him to do it."

John F. Kennedy: "Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction."

Gerald R. Ford: "Never be satisfied with less than your very best effort. If you strive for the top and miss, you'll still 'beat the pack.'"

William J. Clinton: "If you live long enough, you'll make mistakes. But if you learn from them, you'll be a better person. It's how you handle adversity, not how it affects you. The main thing is never quit, never quit, never quit."

Barack Obama: "Change will not come if we wait for some other person, or if we wait for some other time."

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Looking Back at 2020 and Looking Forward to 2021!

We typically produce a “Year in Review” article about the activities of WSBC, but this was anything but a typical year! However, a recap of the WSBC activities proved that good outcomes can still happen despite challenging times!

COVID 19 and the resulting restrictions led to the cancellation of the 2020 WSBC Annual Meeting.

Award winners had been chosen in advance of the meeting.

You can view videos and reports at our website. https://wisbc.com/membership/annual-meeting.php Past award winners are found here: https://wisbc.com/membership/awards-nominations.php The Art Pope Award This award is named for the long-time purebred Hampshire breeder and member of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Department of Meat & Animal Science faculty for 43 years. The award, which got its start in 1995, recognizes exceptional service to and active involvement in the sheep industry, both in Wisconsin and nationally, over many years. Dr. A.L. Pope’s outstanding contribution to sheep research and outreach within the sheep industry, both as a professor of sheep science and as a producer of purebred seedstock, exemplifies the type of person this award acknowledges.

Nominations are not limited to only Wisconsin residents.

2020 Winner - Rob and Christy Zelinski The Wisconsin Sheep Industry Award The Wisconsin Sheep Industry Award recognizes people and businesses with a long history of support and service to Wisconsin’s sheep industry and is limited to Wisconsin residents, businesses and/or Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative members.

2020 Winner - Jim and Sue Rupnow

The Master Shepherd Awards The cooperative’s oldest award recognizes Master Shepherds within four separate categories, Purebred, Commercial and/or Club Lamb, Wool, and Dairy Sheep. The first Master Shepherds were recognized at the 1979 Wisconsin Sheep Industry Conference held in Madison. Award winners must be current WSBC members.

2020 Winner - Laura and Andy Meyer The Friend of the WSBC Award A new award, being introduced in 2011 is given to a person, business, or organization that has provided outstanding support and/or service to the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative or the Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival. Nominations are not limited to only Wisconsin residents, businesses, or organizations.

2020 Winner - UW Madison Small Ruminants Club

WSBC awarded 2020 scholarships to Kailen Smerchek and Vanessa Roberts.

New board members were elected via mail-in ballots. The current list of WSBC Board of Directors includes: President Nancy Burton, Vice President Keith Schultz, Ryan Bingen, Steve Bingen, Randy Cutler, Tim Jergenson, Lynn Lee, Jeff Nevens, Robin Starkenburg, David Troxel and Doug Wilson.

Contact information and committee assignments are listed on the WSBC website. https://wisbc.com/membership/directors-committees.php The Wisconsin Sheep and Wool Festival was modified to a hybrid model in 2020. The Jefferson County Fair Park was the site of the WSWF Modified Festival sheep shows. Approximately 480 head of sheep from throughout the Midwest competed against each other with the different shows spread out over the three days. Exhibitors were grateful for the opportunity provided and are looking forward to 2021! The 2020 WSBC Fleece Sale held on September 12 at the Jefferson County Fair Park.

This was a one-time service offered to the woolgrowers and the fiber artists. Fifty high-quality fleeces, ranging from white commercial classes to natural, white hand spinning classes. Thank you to the Romney Association for their sponsorship of the successful event!

The Virtual Country Store Marketplace was held September 10 – 13, 2020. Your support of the fiber arts community was greatly appreciated. You can stay connected with other fiber enthusiasts, through our Facebook group “Wisconsin Sheep and Wool Online Community”.

The vendor videos that were shared during the Virtual Country Store Marketplace Event will remain on the Wisconsin Sheep and Wool Online Community Facebook group page. Look under Media/Videos. To view on your cell phone, scroll down to “Videos”.

The Virtual Country Marketplace will remain open through September 2021 (and perhaps beyond, depending on its popularity).

2020 Make It With Wool Contest The 2020 Wisconsin Make It With Wool contest was held on Saturday, September 26, and due to the pandemic it was the first time the competition did not hold in-person judging. Garments entered were to have been constructed during the contest year and made of a minimum of 60% wool or wool blend fabrics, wool yarn or specialty fibers such as mohair and alpaca. Judging was completed by a panel of judges who watched videos of each contestant modeling their outfits, looked at photos, and then judged the construction of the garments.

Junior Winners: 1st Elizabeth Colwell, LaValle: $100 cash award 2nd Lauren Thompson, Woodville: $50 cash award Senior: 1st Holley Schwartz, Watertown: $100 cash award Adult: 1st Peg Mathews, Appleton: $100 cash award

Through Their Lens – Winners of the Photo Contest Photo contest coordinator, Lynn Lee had many submissions from some truly talented photographers.

The first place photos for the four contest categories are as follows: Just Lambs - 1st - Laughing Leicester - Submitted by Kirstin Thompson Kids and Sheep - 1st - Wise Shepherd - Submitted by Mary Hampton Photo Taken By Youth - 1st - Lounging Lincoln - Submitted by Lauren Thompson Scenic - 1st - Leicester Reflections - Submitted by Kirstin Thompson See more winning photos on our website. https://wisconsinsheepandwoolfestival.com/competitions/photo-contest The WSWF Virtual Poster Contest featured several entries. See complete information at our website. https://wisconsinsheepandwoolfestival.com/competitions/poster-contest The Wisconsin Wool Works! has expanded its marketing efforts. The Wool Works maintains a sales booth which is located in the sheep barn during the eleven days of the state fair or at the festival in September. While at the state fair, Wool Works consignors and volunteers from local guilds also demonstrate skills such as knitting, spinning, and felting to fairgoers.

One of the biggest changes in 2020 was the implementation of the digital newsletter/Wisconsin Shepherd. Transitioning from a print publication to an online publication was a new challenge as it takes a shift in mindset, content, layout and delivery methods. I tweaked things as the year went on and learned how to adapt and change to meet your needs. Thank you for your patience as WSBC made this transition.

Thanks to those of you who’ve reached out with ideas, comments, suggestions and helpful critiques in 2020. An even bigger thank you to those who’ve been kind enough to send compliments along the way! Volunteers like me, and those who have worked to keep WSBC vibrant and relevant thrive on being noticed and appreciated! I take this moment to thank you for making that happen! There are many volunteers that work year round on WSWF projects and committees to help ensure we remain one of the premier sheep and wool events in the country.

Finally, I'm thankful for you, the WSBC member. Without you, all of the effort put forth by countless volunteers is pointless. My volunteer effort in 2020 was to create this newsletter in order to inform you, entertain you and help you connect with people and resources. A big thank you to Past President Doug Wilson for his insight, frequent communication and premier leadership and to Bob Black for providing his guidance and inspiration along the way!

But, this is my farewell issue. I’ve enjoyed your input and comments and depart with so many mixed emotions. But with the end of any venture, isn't that the way it should be?

- Debbie Petzel

2021 Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative Annual Meeting A virtual Zoom Meeting will be held on Sunday, April 11th at 7 pm. Details and further information will be sent with a membership mailer that will be sent in late February (per our bylaws which state no sooner than 45 prior to the meeting date) This notice will be sent to people who were members in either 2019 or 2020. If someone wasn’t a member in 2019 or 2020 and would like to receive the mailer, please either contact the WSBC office and request the information be sent or send in a 2021 membership form.

Membership forms are available on our website. https://wisbc.com/pdf/2021/2021-2022-WSBC-Membership-Application.pdf What’s In It for Me? Membership Benefits As a co-op member you can: * Receive a free Classified Ad on the WSBC website. * Receive a complimentary link to your website * Expand your network of industry contacts * Get a Membership Directory listing * Vote! Make your voice heard * Make a difference through ASI membership * Volunteer and grow your industry.

Our website: https://wisbc.com/

Ready to join our flock?

* https://wisbc.com/pdf/ 2019/2019-WSBCMembership-Application.pdf

Membership Benefits Free Classified Advertising on the WSBC website at www.wisbc.com Complimentary Link from our Website to Your Website Membership Communication by Email/Website/Facebook Membership Directory Listing-Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival Catalog & WSBC Website WSBC College Scholarship Support of Lamb & Wool Promotional Events – Complimentary Copy of ASI “Sheep Industry News” Support of 4-H, FFA, and Other Youth Educational Events

WSBC Sponsored Events Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival • Wisconsin Wool Works! • Used Equipment Sale • Shepherd’s Auction Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival Youth Sweepstakes Contest • Wisconsin Sheep Photo Contest WSBC Stock Exchange • WSBC Field Day • Wisconsin Make it with Wool Contest ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FAMILY OR INDIVIDUAL WSBC MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Name:_________________________________________ Farm Name:______________________________________ Address:________________________________________________________________________________________ City:____________________________________________________ Phone:____________________________

State:_______

Zip Code:______________

E-Mail address:_________________________________________

Website:___________________________________ Would you like to be linked to the WSBC site? Yes___ No____ Breed (s) of Sheep Raised:__________________________________________________________________________ Do you want your membership information included on the WSBC website membership page? Yes_____ No_____ Please apply this payment to my _____ 2021 dues Please apply this payment to my _____ 2022 dues Please send a check payable to Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative for $30.00 per year to: Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative 5621 N County Rd F, Janesville, WI 53545 Pay by April 1, 2021 and your listing will be published in the 2021 Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival Catalog!

Take advantage of this highly effective and economical way to advertise your flock or business to over 4500 sheep and wool enthusiasts!

http://wisconsinsheepandwoolfestival.com/

Visit our Facebook sites for current updates and information.

Contact Us: Jill Alf - Executive Secretary Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Co-op 5621 Cty Road F Janesville, WI 53545 Phone: 608-743-9080 Email: wisconsinsheepbreeders@gmail.com

Photo by Wynn Wittkopf

WSBC’s Mission *Promote the production, marketing, distribution, and utilization of sheep, lamb, and wool products. *Collect and disseminate information relating to the practical and scientific phases of sheep operation. *Encourage youth participation in sheep projects. *Identify and support research needs for sheep production and marketing. *Promote and encourage efficient marketing of sheep and a sound, healthy sheep industry in Wisconsin.

WSBC Board of Directors Election An election will be held for the three openings on the 2021 WSBC Board of Directors .

Incumbent Directors whose terms expire in 2021 are Doug Wilson (seeking reelection), Ryan Bingen (not seeking re-election) and Dave Troxel (not seeking reelection). We wish to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to Ryan and Dave for their years of service on WSBC Board of Directors. At their December meeting, the WSBC Board of Directors accepted the report of the Nomination Committee.

The nominees are Doug Wilson, Jill Johnson, Dan Smercek and Matt Kilpin.The Board of Directors are excited about the potential that each of the nominees bring to the leadership of WSBC. Please take time to read the bios of the nominees that are included in this newsletter.

Any successful organization is usually lead by a committed and responsive board of directors, supporting the mission and activities of the organization. Directors need to possess good oral and written communication skills, strong networking skills and the desire to volunteer for committee work to support the mission of the organization.

Above all, board members must be good listeners who invite and encourage honest dialogue from the membership and who are committed to work to build trust and partnerships.

Keep these leadership attributes in mind as you consider the nominees.

The Board of Directors wants to thank the Nomination Committee consisting of Debbie Petzel, Todd Taylor and Tim Jergenson for their work.

Jill Johnson – Blair, WI The Wisconsin sheep industry is incredibly diverse, and I am lucky enough to have experienced several parts of it.

As a youth, I was introduced to sheep through my family’s small flock of registered Suffolks and 4H. As a young parent, sheep became a way for my husband and I to reconnect to our farming roots and offer those same experiences to our sons.

As an entrepreneur, sheep and wool became the basis for my fiber arts business, RiverWinds Farm & Fiber Works. Currently I live on a small farm near Blair, WI. My family and I moved to this Driftless Region farm four years ago from Boyd, WI. Our first farm provided the opportunity to push our shepherding and high intensity managed grazing skills. We experimented with a few different breeds of wool sheep to find the best sheep to meet our market and management style. Ultimately we ran about 70 mostly fine wool Cormo ewes. The sheep were kept covered year round with feeding and lambing managed to produce the best fine wool fleeces for direct marketing at premium prices. My flock was decreased to about 30 ewes to facilitate the move and allow time to build new infrastructure. Also during this time one of our sons became interested in the challenge of breeding his own wether type show lambs, and our flock now contains a small group of blackface breeding ewes. Because of those ewes and our current farm’s land base, our management has moved from pasture lambing to winter barn lambing and grain finishing lambs, but we still utilize rotational grazing to feed the ewe flock for 7 to 8 months of the year.

Over the last 20 years, I have direct marketed wool, wool products and, eventually, my art work under our farm name by attending sheep and wool festivals throughout the midwest, shipping fleece nationwide and maintaining a website. I have been active in local grazing programs hosting pasture walks and speaking at the Wisconsin grazing conference, and I regularly participate in community and youth events to share the benefits of sheep and wool.

Having been involved with the Wisconsin Sheep and Wool Festival for 16 years as a vendor, fleece and sheep exhibitor and Wonders of Wool instructor and the experience as show sheep mom and commercial lamb producer, I have a unique insight into the many types of sheep producers represented by the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative.

Matt Kilpin – Janesville, WI I have been involved in the sheep industry since I first joined FFA in high school back in 2004. I began working with frame style Hampshires that were owned by one of my parent’s close friends who needed extra help on her hobby farm after she was diagnosed with cancer.

After a short period of time I moved from the frame styled Hampshires to the club lambs and I became even more involved with sheep industry from a county, state and national level.

Currently my wife, son and I have a small flock of 20 ewes that are mainly all registered Hampshire club lamb style ewes. We started this adventure back in 2017 after we purchased our first house in western Rock County. Our goal is to be around 40 ewes by 2023, this would be pushing the limits of our existing facilities but would also be financially sustainable for us to keep this project going for our son and our newest addition to the family that will arrive at the end of June.

I am a graduate from UW-Platteville with a degree in Agriculture Education. After graduating I decided that teaching wasn’t my calling at that point in my life and instead, I pursued a career in Ag. Sales. Currently I am a Seed Representative for Beck’s Hybrids and my territory covers the South Eastern Counties of Wisconsin and North Eastern Counties of Illinois. I do have a deep passion for educating youth about our agriculture industry and helping mentor them along the way and maybe one day I will decide that it is time to get back in the classroom.

One of the most rewarding parts of the sheep industry that I find unique is the amount close relationships that can be built in such a short period of time. I was not active in the sheep world for about 5 years because I was trying to start my career and try to become financially stable and as soon as I decided to get back into it I was welcomed back into the family of fellow sheep enthusiast like I had never been gone.

I was not a raised a farm kid and yet after such short period of time spent in this industry as a young adolescent, I decided that it was in blood to be involved with it for the rest of my life. I can’t explain with any words how something so simple as helping someone in need has impacted my life and changed the direction of my life.

Our industry is ever changing and being able to adapt and bring new ideas to the table is a must if we want to stay relevant. I believe that I would be able to help bring new marketing and educational ideas to the members so we can all benefit more from the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative for years to come.

I would like to say thank you for the opportunity to be nominated to serve as a member on the board and I look forward to serving the members of the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative.

Dan Smerchek – Rosholt, WI My family and I, wife Shelly and children Dathan, Kailen and Jordan and Kelsi (Smerchek) Hammer, own and operate 85 brood ewe flock near Rosholt WI in Marathon county. The Smerchek flock consists of 50 black face wether type ewes and 35 registered Southdown ewes.

We work hard to breed sound, healthy sheep that are productive and efficient. I have been involved in all facets of the sheep industry and have worked with many different sheep breeds over the years. I had the opportunity to work at WIS-Zona sheep company in Bancroft WI for 3 years, where I was responsible for the care and lambing of 3500 commercial ewes.

I worked as the shepherd at UWRF from 1990 through 1995 managing the Dorset, Hampshire and Columbia Flocks. I have a deep passion for all types and kinds of sheep as well as sheep breeders.

I have also held several leadership positions in the livestock industry. Board member of the Wisconsin Livestock breeders Association, President for 2 years. I was president of the Wisconsin Club Lamb Association for 3 years.

I would very much like to be selected to be on the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Board. I think I would bring an understanding of the commercial sheep Industry as well as the show sheep industry. Thank you for your consideration.

Doug Wilson – Shawano, WI Doug Wilson is seeking his second term on the board. Doug is a partner in Corner View Club Lambs, a flock of 150 wether-type ewes. The flock is in its 26th year of existence.

Corner View uses an aggressive reproductive program with about one-third of the lambs resulting from donor ewes and two LAI breeding sessions.

Corner View has sold wethers and breeding stock into several states and actively participates in local, state, regional and national shows.

Corner View supplies lamb meat to Five Star Lamb, a direct-marketing organization of retail cuts. Five Star has several outlets and is an active online marketer.

Corner View has been recognized with the Master Shepherd award from the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative, the Sheep Service award from the Wisconsin Livestock Breeders Association and the Friend of Wisconsin Club Association award.

Corner View manages a show barn and has served as mentors for over 35 local youth. They provide housing and club lamb expertise to the youth.

Doug spent his entire career in the cattle breeding industry. He spent 20 years as a genetic specialist and retired as CEO of Cooperative Resources International.

PLANNING BEGINS FOR 2021 FESTIVAL

Plans are being made for the 2021 Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival, September 9-­‐12 which will be held at Jefferson County Fair Park, Jefferson, WI. The festival is a function of the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative, providing education for the fiber arts, sheep producers and youth, as well entertainment and an opportunity for sheep breeders from across the country to exhibit their animals and wool fleeces. It is also the site for the Crook & Whistle Stock Dog Trial.

Keep up to date on any changes by visiting the festival website, www.wisconsinsheepandwoolfestival.com or the festival Facebook page. For information on the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Co-­‐op, go to www.wisbc.com or contact the co-­‐op office at 608 743-­‐9080 (after 5:00 p.m.).

The Used Equipment and Shepherd’s Auctions will return in 2021 https://wisconsinsheepandwoolfestival.com/special-events/used-equipment-auction

The annual Wild and Wooly Photo Contest will be back at the Wisconsin Sheep and Wool Festival. See all the details at https://wisconsinsheepandwoolfestival.com/competitions/photo-contest

**Scholarships: Up to $4000.00 in scholarships will be awarded annually based on qualified applications submitted.

Scholarships to be divided at the Scholarship Committee member’s discretion.

CRITERIA FOR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICANTS •

Parents or applicant must have been members of the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Coop for a minimum of (2) consecutive years including the year of application.

•

Must be a high school senior graduating in 2021 or college student age 25 or younger.

• • •

Applicant must be enrolled in UW-Madison Agriculture Short Course, technical school, community college or an accredited 4-year college in the fall of 2021.

• •

Previous WSBC scholarship winners are not eligible to re-apply.

•

Applicant must have carried sheep as a 4-H or FFA project for a minimum of 2 years.

•

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If awarded in 2021, scholarships will be paid any time after January 1, 2022 upon submission of scholarship recipient’s Fall 2021 college transcript, reflecting a minimum of a 2.0 GPA and a Spring 2022 class schedule.

• •

Late applications will not be considered.

2021 SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE: A decision whether 2021 scholarships applications will be accepted, will be made by September 1, 2021 based on the current finances of the cooperative. Please check back for an updated status on September 1, 2021.

Return to: Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative 5621 Cty Road F Janesville, WI 53545 wisconsinsheepbreeders@gmail.com

We’re Hiring!

Digital Communications Specialist opportunity

If you love social media, have excellent writing and organizational skills, enjoy working under deadline pressure and stay up on current industry events….and most importantly are passionate about the Wisconsin Sheep community please apply for this important Cooperative position. Send your cover letter, resume and references to wisconsinsheepbreeders@gmail.com by February 28,2021.

For more information see the job description on www.wisbc.com Did you know that pictures of the 2019 WSWF are available for free download? https://2019wisheepandwoolfestival.shutter fly.com/

New Website for Wisconsin Wool Works!

The grassroots marketing effort of the Wisconsin Wool Works originally begun in 1999. It was started to help fiber artists expand their markets and to educate the public about wool and the sheep industry. A function of the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative, the Wool Works hosts approximately twenty consignors each year at the Wisconsin State Fair. These are mainly artisans who in turn volunteer to help at the Wisconsin Wool Works booth which is in the sheep barn during the eleven days of the state fair or at the Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival in September.

While at the state fair, Wool Works consignors and volunteers from local guilds also demonstrate skills such as knitting, spinning, and felting to fairgoers.

Our vendors include knitters, felters, spinners, and weavers from mostly Wisconsin, but also from Illinois and Ohio. We will be featuring these vendors and a bit about their skills with wool on the vendor page on the website.

Following two decades of promoting the fiber arts and Wisconsin’s sheep industry at the Wisconsin State Fair and Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival, the Wisconsin Wool Works! has expanded its marketing efforts, launching a new website https://www.wisconsinwoolworks.com .

The website was started in 2020 as a means of helping the WWW vendors sell their items during the pandemic but will continue to help us reach our customer base, provide a year-round venue for wool products, and help educate the public about the many reasons to use wool.

If you are interested in being a consignor, please call or email for details.

For more information on the Wisconsin Wool Works, please contact Carol Black, Manager, at 920 296-0326.

The Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Co-op has represented the state’s sheep industry since 1875, supporting education for producers, youth, and those interested in the fiber arts side of the industry. They have also represented its membership in legislative matters as part of the American Sheep Industry Association (ASI).

For more information about the cooperative and/or to read its newsletter, go to www.wisbc.com or contact the co-op office at 608 743-9080 (weekdays after 5:00) For more information about the Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival, go to www.wisconsinsheepandwoolfestival.com

MEHRINGER SELECTED AS DIRECTOR OF WISCONSIN MAKE IT WITH WOOL PEWAUKEE- Becky Mehringer has been selected as the State Director of the Wisconsin Make it With Wool program. She succeeds outgoing State Director, Wynn Wittkopf, of Pewaukee.

Mehringer’s duties as director will include promotion of wool as a versatile textile for clothing, accessories and novelty items. She will coordinate the Wisconsin Make It With Wool competition held in conjunction with the annual Wisconsin Sheep and Wool Festival. Her duties begin February 1, 2021.

Make it With Wool is a sewing, fashion and design competition open to all Wisconsin residents interested in using wool or wool blend fabrics to be sewn, knitted, crocheted or woven into clothing or accessories. Winners of some divisions may go on to compete with their woolen item at the National Make it With Wool competition held in conjunction with the American Sheep Industry's annual convention.

The Wisconsin Make it With Wool Program is sponsored by the Wisconsin Sheep and Wool Festival and the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative.

Mehringer resides in Cambridge along with her husband and three young sons. They raise Romney sheep for breeding stock, wool and meat. They also raise pigs, chickens and honeybees. Mehringer previously served as a judge for the Wisconsin Make it With Wool program for the past seven years.

“I am excited to become more involved with this unique aspect of the wool industry. I look forward to continuing the program at the quality level that Wynn has for many years. It is a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in fiber arts and I hope that the program continues to grow. Thank you to the Wisconsin Sheep and Wool Festival and the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative for supporting this program for youth and adults alike”, said Mehringer.

Wittkopf is excited for Mehringer to take the reins. Wittkopf comments, "Becky's energy and passion for Make It With Wool is contagious. I'm thrilled Becky will be encouraging and leading the next generation. Wisconsin Make It With Wool is in great hands."

For more information regarding the Wisconsin Make it With Wool program, contact Becky Mehringer at 920-220-1026 or at wisconsinmiww@gmail.com

Hawaii Welcomes It's Firs t Ever Shropshires !

By WSBC Member Charlotte Stephenson Two ewe lambs made the 4,500 mile journey to Maui, Hawaii this year from Sugar Ridge Ranch in Viroqua, Wisconsin. They are enjoying life at the Art Farm LLC which is a non-profit artists in residency 52 acre farm in Kuli, Hawaii.

"It took roughly a year to work out the details. When the Art Farm contacted me about our Shrops and explained they wanted to get them to Hawaii, I was a bit skeptical at first. It's not every day you have sheep customers from Hawaii! After many months of emails and photos, the two special ewes were selected.

Even though Hawaii is part of the U.S. it is treated like an international country because it is essentially isolated in terms of importation regulations. Several phone calls, emails, flock tests and work with the Hawaii Dept of Agriculture, California, Wisconsin State and our local Veterinarians made it all possible. Things were pretty much lined up for the two ewes to fly out of Chicago directly to Maui when Covid-19 hit. Flights were cancelled everywhere and there were added restrictions on livestock. Move to plan B! The alternative plan was to drive them to Denver, Colorado where there were still direct flights.

A week later, those flights were cancelled. It was looking more and more like the only direct flights were out of LAX in Los Angeles. At first we contacted several professional livestock haulers to arrange transportation, but again Covid put the brakes on that. Everyone's schedules and routes were up in the air. Add to the fact that these lambs have a weight restriction for flying and are growing like crazy.

The trip had already been delayed by a month and this was one time that our great rate of gain was working against us!

We looked at our schedule, made some calls, lined up chore help and everything fell in line for us to drive them ourselves out to California. We made the 2,000 mile trip out in about 48 hours. We planned our route to drive through the hottest parts of the journey at night to keep the ewes comfortable. They arrived safely in Santa Monica and from there the new owners transported them the next day to the Los Angles airport where they then made the additional 2,500 miles to Maui.

We took our time heading back home to Wisconsin. Our initial plan was to visit the Hollywood walk of fame and see some of the sights in Los Angeles. Unfortunately the day we delivered the lambs, Los Angeles was having riots, so that idea was out. We also planned to camp at the National Parks in California, but most were closed, again due to Covid. At this point we were on plan Z and looked again at the map, did a bit of quick research and planned a new route. Joshua Tree National Park in California was open. After the lambs were delivered we high tailed across the Mojave desert, just in time to pitch our tent and spent the night camping in the desert under the beautiful stars. From there we zig zagged our way through Utah and camped, hiked and explored Zion, Bryce, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef & Arches National Parks. We then shot over to Colorado to spend a day at Mesa Verde, NP. During the two week adventure we put on over 5,000 miles.

It was truly the trip of a lifetime!"

Farm Ready Research Webinars -­‐ Madison, WI

The Small Ruminant webinar series, part of Extension’s Farm Ready Research series, provides a new spin on the longstanding and popular sheep production video conferencing series that connected sheep and goat producers around the state.

Whether you are interested in dairy production, livestock production, or farm management, the University of Wisconsin-­‐Madison Division of Extension’s Farm Ready Research webinar series has the most up-­‐to-­‐date information for you.

There is no charge to participate in the sessions, but pre-­‐registration is required to allow access to the session. Extension recognizes that producers are receiving information for a lot of meetings this winter; the Farm Ready Research webinar website go.wisc.edu/FarmReadyResearch is your place to find all information about UW-­‐Madison Extension Agriculture programs.

A sample week of Extension agricultural webinars begins on Tuesdays with Badger Dairy Insight from 1-­‐2:30 p.m. and Wisconsin Beef Special Edition from 7-­‐8:30 p.m.; Wednesdays focus on Small Ruminants from 7:30 – 9 p.m.; and then it’s Farm Management Fridays from 11 a.m. – noon.

• Badger Dairy Insight topics provide guidance about farm safety and information for dairy farms of all sizes to remain competitive and profitable.

• Wisconsin Beef Special Edition combines content from UW-­‐Madison Extension Cow/Calf Days and Wisconsin Cattle Feeder Workshops.

• Small Ruminant Series topics range from direct marketing to lamb care, forage analysis, and pasture management.

• Farm Management Fridays will highlight farm business management information, resources and decision-­‐making tools for farmers and agribusinesses to improve business profitability and lifestyles through informed decision-­‐making.

Please check the online schedule that also includes more information about each session: go.wisc.edu/FarmReadyResearch For more information contact: Megan Nelson, Extension Livestock Program Manager, megan.nelson@wisc.edu Gene Schriefer, Outreach Specialist, gene.schriefer@wisc.edu

Livestock Lessons is a new animal science presentation experience for Wisconsin youth. Giving a Livestock Lesson is an opportunity for you to share your learning with others and to teach others about animal sciences.

For grades 3-8: (only one submission per category) 1. An oral video presentation.

2. Written Public Service Announcement (PSA).

For grades 9-13th: (only one submission per category) 1. An oral video presentation.

2. Written Public Service Announcement (PSA).

3. SAE Project Slides The potential topics for your lessons are endless! We would love for you to submit your 4-H demonstrations, FFA public speaking entries, any videos and written work that aligns with work your already doing. This time period will allow us to see you talk about acquiring your animal project or caring for newborn animals. No matter what topic you choose, remember that the most impactful presentations are both accurate and engaging. Be creative, be funny, be serious, just be you! Think about something you have learned in your animal science project or something that you enjoy doing and prepare to share it. The SAE Project Slides are a new addition to assist older youth in framing out topics of interest and explore careers, which can assist them in completing their SAE application.

Choosing a topic

Creating a good animal science presentation starts with identifying a topic. The best presentations are focused, timely, to the point, and leave a lasting impression.

Judging and recognition

Submissions are due March 5. The top entries in each division will receive monetary awards and may be featured on Wisconsin Youth Livestock Program social media, YouTube channels and other media outlets.

Livestock Lessons are open to all members who are in animal sciences. Each youth can enter one submission in both oral presentation and written public service announcements; Grades 9+ can enter one submission in oral presentation, written public service announcement and SAE Project Slides. Submitted entries will be divided into the following judging categories.

Judging Categories

" Junior (Grades 3-5) " Intermediate (Grades 6-8) " Senior (Grades 9+) For more information, please see Wisconsin Youth Livesotck Website. https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/youthlivestock/livestock-lessons/

Congratulations to Youth on their Livestock Lessons (Madison): Livestock Lessons is a new animal science experience for Wisconsin youth. Giving a Livestock Lesson is an opportunity for youth to share their learning with others and to teach others about animal sciences.

Congratulations to our first round of Livestock Lessons youth.

Grades 3-5 Video 1. Caleb Formo, Iowa County 2. Morgan Anderson, Polk County 3. MaKieyela Raisler, Waupaca County Public Service Announcements (PSA) 1. Morgan Anderson, Polk County 2. MaKieyela Raisler, Waupaca County Grades 6-8 Video 1. Alison Gartman, Sheboygan County Grades 9-12 Video 1. Vivian Stephenson, Vernon County 2. Maggie and Abby Stalbaum, Columbia County 3. Elizabeth Colwell – Juneau County Public Service Announcements (PSA) 1. Vivian Stephenson, Vernon County 2. Erin Lancaster, Barron County For more information and to view the winning videos and PSAs check out the Wisconsin Youth Livestock Program Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/wisconsinyouthlivestock or Instagram page https://www.instagram.com/wiyouthlvstk/. There is a YouTube playlist of all the videos that can be reviewed.

Thank you to our sponsors, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Wisconsin Pork Association, Wisconsin Beef Council and Wisconsin 4-H Foundation, who provided our winners with gift certificates to their favorite show supply store or Culvers, a continued sponsor of youth.

The Wisconsin Youth Livestock Program (WYLP), affiliated with the UW Madison Department of Animal & Dairy Sciences, College of Agricultural & Life Sciences, and the Division of Extension are excited to offer these educational programs for the winter/spring of 2020-2021. These activities are an opportunity for youth and adults to create awareness and increase skills in the animal sciences. These activities can serve as “county educational requirements�. County programs will have the final say on if they meet county requirements. Your county or fair might have a specific form that is used for educational points. In the meantime, track your involvement online using the education verification form found at https://go.wisc.edu/r3x8lh. Turn in the form to your county fair and or livestock committee representatives. The offerings are largely for large animals but many aspects of the information apply to small animals (poultry, rabbits, etc.). https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/youthlivestock/anisci-educational-programs/ There are also a number of educational offerings that occurred spring of 2020 that can be reviewed on the website as well new offerings.

Subra Suffolks Marlin and Geralyn Subra Cami and Paige Sheep have been a part of the Subra family for over 50 years. My parents started our flock in 1966 with 10 crossbred ewes, and soon after we added two registered Suffolk ewes. By 1976, the entire flock was 100% Registered Suffolk. In 1990 a trip to Wyoming added a Luxford range type ram, a shift in genetics.

Our focus is to provide seed stock genetics with the “ram rejects” being utilized as solid carcasstype market lambs. As it became more difficult to keep the club lamb quality, the flock shifted to a more moderate frame, production-oriented animals. From there we added various Kimm, Tom Slack, Baglien and McCauley bloodlines.

Furthering our goal of of breeding Suffolks with bone, body, and muscle led us to import British Suffolk semen. With the help of Dr. Justin Luther of Reproductive Services, LLC via LAI, we currently have three rams out of Bentley Fly Half that were used for the 2021 lamb crop. Forty-six mature ewes and seventeen ewe lambs will be expanding the flock this year.

Subra Suffloks was the #4 registrar in the United Suffolk Sheep Association for 2020, with most ram and ewes sold privately to flocks in the Midwest. In 2019, a ram was exported to Canada working in the Gork Family flock.

Left: McCartney”, Subra 19647A,

by Bentley Fly Half, our lead ram for 2021 Right: “Duke”, Subra 20513, A promising product packed ram.

Looking forward to seeing offspring in 2021. “ Marketing takes a major role in making a business successful. Our advertising is done in print media, but also on Craigslist, Facebook, and production sales such as Indianhead Sheep and Goat Breeders Association Spring Sale and MN Bred Ewe Sale. When customers visit our farm, we usually have the sires on site to view.

Utilizating Geralyn’s graphic art talent, we create what we call the “ram list.” This sheet has pictures and pedigree of sires of the current lamb crop, making it easier for customers to select an animal to add to their flock.

I am a lifelong 4-H’er and continue to work with youth by judging county and district livestock shows throughout the Midwest. Working as a livestock nutritionist for 25 years has given me the chance to develop my special interest in small ruminants. Each spring and summer I have the chance to speak at 4-H project meetings and seminars to help mentor the next generation of shepherds and livestock producers. Although I am not mechanically oriented, I enjoy announcing tractor/truck pulls all around west-central Wisconsin. I believe it is important to be a “life-long learner”-- with this value in mind, I recently embarked on a new adventure and attained a Real Estate Salesperson license.

My daughter Cami has followed in my footsteps and is also a livestock judge in the process of getting a card.

Cami Subra judging The “UnFair” Subra Suffolks is located on a 80 acre farm just east of Taylor, Wisconsin. The farm allows us to harvest our own hay for feeding the flock. The ewes are rotationally grazed during the summer, splitting time between three paddocks. A feed rail with hay storage was built four years ago, making feeding the flock much easier.

I am always willing to talk sheep. If you find yourself in the neighborhood or perhaps planned a trip to western Wisconsin, we would be happy to show you around and discuss Suffolks!

W15142 County Road P Taylor, WI 54659 715-662-3003 marlinsubra@gmail.com

Both Cami and Paige, my youngest daughter, are avid 4-H’ers and have grown up showing at the Trempealeau County Fair and the Central Wisconsin State Fair. In 2017, my family made the trip to Madison to exhibit in the Junior All-American Livestock Show, where Cami exhibited the third place production ewe lamb. Geralyn, my wife, splits her time between lambing duties and her business, Blossom Barn Greenhouse. Her customers are always delighted to see the cute baby lambs during their flower shopping in the spring. There are always questions about Mario, our guard llama.

Subra Suffolks

Producer

Education University of Idaho Extension Livestock

In this UI & UW Extension Sheep & Goat Webinar, Dr. Berit Bangoura, DVM with the University of Wyoming and Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory gives an in depth look at Coccidia management on sheep and goat operations.

Watch the video here… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6 NKDLxh62eM&feature=youtu.be

In this UI & UW Extension Sheep & Goat Webinar, Melinda Ellison and Carmen Willmore with the University of Idaho Extension discuss equipment to have on hand for lambing and kidding Watch the video here… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ASIyVyD0w_A&t=2319s

Ethnic Holiday Calendar Due to the increase in ethnic populations, the demand for lamb for the table has also increased. Lamb prices are usually higher before the festivals/ethnic holidays. It is important for sheep producers to plan accordingly when to market their animals. The type (size, sex, and condition) of the animal desired for each holiday varies. The following table gives the dates of various ethnic holidays for the next five years (2021-2025).

This chart was created by Susan Schoenian.

Ethnic holiday calendar, 2021-2025 HOLIDAY

RELIGION

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

Eid ul-Adha Festival of the Sacrifice

Muslim

July 20-23

July 9-10

Jun 28-29

Jun 16-17

Jun 6-7

Muharramm/Hajra Islamic New Year

Muslim

Aug 9-10

July 29-30

July 18-19

July 7-8

June 26-27

Mawlid al-Nabi Prophet's Birthday

Muslim

Oct 18-19

Oct 7-8

Sept 26-27

Sept 15-16

Sept 4-5

Ramadan (month of fasting)

Muslim

April 12-May 11

April 2-May 1

Mar 22-Apr 20

Mar 10-Apr 8

Feb 28-Mar 29

Eid ul-Fitr Festival of Fast Breaking

Muslim

May 12-13

May 2-3

Apr 21-22

Apr 9-10

Mar 30-31

Pesch (Passover)

Jewish

Mar 27-Apr 4

Apr 15-23

Apr 5-13

Apr 22-30

Apr 12-20

Rosh Hashanah

Jewish

Sept 6-8

Sept 25-27

Sept 15-27

Oct 2-4

Sept 22-24 Dec 14-22

Chanukkah

Jewish

Nov 29-Dec 6

Dec 18-26

Dec 7-15

Dec 25-Jan 2

Western (Roman) Easter

Christian

April 4

April 17

April 9

April 17

April 4

Eastern Orthodox (Greek) Easter

Christian

May 2

April 24

April 16

May 5

April 20

Christmas (Western)

Christian

Dec 25

Dec 25

Dec 25

Dec 25

Dec 25

Epiphany, Feast of the Nativity

Christian

Jan 7

Jan 7

Jan 7

Jan 7

Jan 7

Feb 12

Feb 1

Jan 22

Feb 10

Jan 29

Chinese New Year

Source: sheepandgoat.com

A webinar has been planned to help you plan for producing to the ethnic market. See this link: https://extension.wisc.edu/agriculture/farm-readyresearch/?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D150338298

Lambing Preparation with Skip Anderson, North Dakota State University Link to the prerecorded video https://youtu.be/3XRLy992nd0

View the Dystocia presentation at your convenience. It was produced by University of Maryland Small Ruminant Extension.

https://www.slideshare.net/schoenian/backyard-farming-dystocia-in-sheep-goats Do you have a sheep question? It’s likely you can find your answer here! https://www.slideshare.net/schoenian/presentations

Lambing Time Is Coming Up Fast!

University of Maryland Extension Backyard Farming Zoom Sessions http://www.sheepandgoat.com/ (301) 432-2767 Ext 343 sschoen@umd.edu Register at the following link… https://umd.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJIvf-2trT4jGdSHtkTyb6_N0hEnewcWL-aM

Register for the webinar at this link‌ https://www.anymeeting.com/AccountManager/RegEv.aspx?PIID=EF57DD80844E31 See the FACT website for archived webinars and other information. https://foodanimalconcernstrust.org/webinars

https://youtu.be/64fel9CgBZ0

Are you looking to improve your lambing procedures? You can take advantage of these prerecorded webinars and instructional manual/poster. While some of the “live” presentations have happened, accessing on demand, as your schedule permits make it easy. https://misheep.org/category/news/general/

Birth Management for Sheep and Goats 2021 • Are you interested in learning how to improve birth management of your herd or flock?

The MSU Small Ruminant Extension team is offering a 4-part webinar series on birth management that will lead you through a host of topics aimed to improve birth management of sheep and goats. Each weekly session will last approximately 90 min and sessions will be recorded to allow future viewing.

• Each session will feature seminars, specialized instructional videos and question and answer sessions with an expert panel to cover each of these topics (live sessions are 78:30 pm each Tuesday evening): ✓ Jan 12: “Nutritional management to optimize birth outcomes in sheep and goats.” ✓ Jan 19: “Optimizing maternal and newborn health: parasite control, vaccination schedules, treating complications at birth, providing a healthy environment.” ✓ Jan 26: “The normal birth process, birth assistance and newborn care.” ✓ Feb 2: “Identifying challenges on your farm and creating an improvement plan addressing health management, nutrition and facility improvements.”

• Instructors: Richard Ehrhardt Ph.D., Senior Extension Specialist; Mike Metzger M.S., extension educator; and Erin Recktenwald Ph.D., extension and research associate.

• Participants will learn preventative approaches, assessment skills, and treatment procedures. Both novice and veteran producers alike will find this program valuable.

Because of the amount and depth of information presented, students have found attending this program more than once to be valuable.

• Topics will include: nutritional management, use of ultrasound, facility design, newborn care, hypothermia treatment, grafting, vaccination protocols, mortality diagnoses, health and feeding program assessment.

• Registration: $40/farm or family and includes a 40+ page manual, a laminated lamb hypothermia/starvation treatment poster and access to all recorded sessions (additional members of the same farm/ family may receive additional manuals and posters for $20 per set). Contact Carla McLachlan for more details (phone: 517-432-5402; email: MCLACHL2@msu.edu) • Online registration only for this event and it may be completed at: https://commerce.cashnet.com/msu_3645 Choose the MSU Extension tab. Those that register before Jan 1, 2021 will receive the manual and poster before the sessions begin.

Those that register later will receive these items also but likely not before the beginning of the first session.

The History of Pope Farms The Friends of Pope Farm Conservancy (FOPFC) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization formed in the spring of 2013. The purpose of the FOPFC is to enhance the educational opportunities at Pope Farm Conservancy (PFC), preserve the balance of its wildlife habitat and historical features, and protect its scenic landscapes and tranquility for the enjoyment of the public. Pope Farm Conservancy is owned and operated by the Town of Middleton. The Friends offer many opportunities to enhance and enjoy this breathtaking conservancy.

Three members of the Pope Family that made the Conservancy possible are introduced: Art, Vivian, and Betty Pope. The chapter concludes with the story of the race to save the land as a Conservancy in 1999.

Dr. A.L. Pope’s outstanding contributions to sheep research and outreach within the sheep industry, included being a professor of sheep science and as a producer of purebred seedstock, He was a long-time purebred Hampshire breeder and member of the University of WisconsinMadison Department of Meat & Animal Science faculty for 43 years.

You can read the full history at this link: https://uwmadison.app.box.com/s/jvgnblgd73n67wga7j4wptkyfwolki5p

Art was the first in the Pope family to go to college. In 1938 Art went off the Michigan State University and began his studies in Agriculture/ Animal Science. He helped work his way through college by working in the MSU sheep barns as a herdsman. Art received a Bachelor's degree in Animal Husbandry from MSU (1942), then headed for the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he earned a Master of Science in Animal Nutrition (1943) and a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Animal Nutrition (1946). Art spent his career as a faculty member of the Department of Meat and Animal Science at the UW-Madison where he taught and conducted research in animal science and small ruminant nutrition for 43 years. He served as Department Chair for 12 years before he retired in 1989.

OREGON / JANESVILLE - Nils E. Nelson, formerly of Janesville (Footville), Wis., passed away on Saturday, Dec. 26, 2020, at BeeHive Memory Care in Oregon, Wis. Nils was born in Spokane, Wash., on May 18, 1933, to Oscar and Marie (Hartman) Nelson. Nils graduated from Stoughton High School in 1951, enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1954, and served his country during the Korean War, stationed in Germany.

In 1957, Nils married Nancy Smith. They purchased a farm near Footville where they lived for 57 years before moving to Oregon in 2017. They had two daughters, Lisa Field and Kristen Lee.

In addition to the farm, Nils worked for the UW-Madison in the computing center (now DoIT) for 28 years. Nils believed he was put on this earth to work and always had at least one side job or business. Some of those included driving semi for A&H, Inc., feedlot to freezer meat business, a Kent Feed business, and his beloved Dorset sheep flock that started as Kristen’s 4-H project. The sheep gave him years of joy and opened a whole new world of friendships. He enjoyed the social and competitive aspects of showing sheep and in 2015 was inducted into the Wisconsin Sheep Barn Hall of Fame.

Nils was a provider, a man of great faith, a jokester, and greatly enjoyed sharing conversation and coffee with friends in Footville and Orfordville, as well as others he made over the years. Nils was devoted to his family and made tremendous sacrifices to provide for them. He was a loving husband, proud father of Lisa Field and Kristen, and yet a very humble man who was empathetic and benevolent to those in need.

Nils is survived by his wife, Nancy of 63 years; daughter, Kristen (Bob) Johnson; grandson, Harrison Glen; and sisters, Janet Nelson (Tim Reilley) and Helen (Kent) Karberg. Nils is preceded in death by his parents; eldest daughter, Lisa Field Stark; and sister, Margaret Larson.

Private services were held at First Presbyterian Church in Oregon on Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2020, followed by burial at Prairie Mound Cemetery in Oregon.

The family is especially grateful for the staff at Stoughton Hospital for years of expert medical support, BeeHive for their loving and compassionate care, and to the Agrace angels who spent their Christmas Eve and Day comforting Nils and the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials be directed to First Presbyterian Church of Oregon or to Agrace Hospice Care of Fitchburg. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com .

Gunderson Oregon Funeral & Cremation Care 1150 Park St. (608) 835-3515

Neal A. Jorgensen, THE VILLAGES, Fla Neal A. Jorgensen, 85, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2020.

Born in Luck, Wis., he was the son of the late Carl and Francis (Challberg) Jorgensen. He was raised on a dairy farm and attended local schools. Neal graduated from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. He earned his master's and Ph.D. Degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Neal served his country honorably in the U.S. Army.

Neal excelled in all aspects of higher education. He was an outstanding educator in the classroom and in advising the many graduate students he trained. He also made countless presentations before farmers, dairy business leaders, researchers, lawmakers, and other groups. He conducted groundbreaking research, much of it collaborating with faculty from other college departments as well as universities. He was a trusted and responsive administrator, serving as Associate Dean and then as a Dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences University of Wisconsin. Neal was a doer, willingly stepping forward as necessary to find the right people to get the job done.

Neal enjoyed fishing and outdoor activities at their cottage near Luck, Wis., with family and friends.

Upon retirement he and Darlyne wintered in Florida for a few years before becoming permanent residents of The Villages in Florida. They joined New Covenant United Methodist Church, The Villages. They enjoyed the lifestyle and camaraderie of their neighbors and friends.

Neal is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Darlyne Rae (Olson) Jorgensen; a daughter, Pamela Hopkins of Estero, Fla.; and granddaughter, Natalia Hopkins. He is also survived by sisters-in-law, Karen Jorgensen and Colleen Adams-Schween (Don); and many nieces and nephews and, of course, friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frances and Carl; and siblings, Catherine, Carlton and Clayton.

A Celebration of Life will be postponed due to COVID-19. Memorials may be made to the Neal Jorgensen Dairy Science Endowment Fund #132270937, U.W. Foundation U.S. Bank Lockbox, P.O. Box 78807, Milwaukee, WI 53278-0807.

For online condolences visit www.hiers-baxley.com.

COLUMBUS--Merlin G. Thom, age 94, died peacefully on Friday, December 18, 2020.

He was born on June 6, 1926 to Gustave and Edith (Lange) Thom. He was the only son and grew up on the family farm working alongside his father.

On May 25, 1948 he married the love of his life, Betty Jane Parsons. They shared 72 years together always providing love and open arms to those who came into their lives.

Merlin is survived by his wife Betty and daughter Carolyn “Kate� (Mary Jo Gessler) Thom.

The Thom family opened their home and hearts to many who call them Mom & Dad, all of whom will truly miss him. Daughters Cindy McDermott, Karen (Tim) Luey and Laura (John) Lien, sons Dale Roate and Tim (Silvana) Higgins. Grandsons Erick (Pam Cruz) Gray and Matthew (Amy) Gray. Great grandsons Gus, Hunter and Conner Gray; great granddaughter Chloe; great- great granddaughters Amber and Penny. Countless more called him Grandpa which he cherished so much.

Merlin was preceded in death by his parents, daughter and son-in-law, Penny and Robert Gray, sons Mike, Tim, Larry and Bruce, son-in-law Kevin McDermott and daughter-in-law Sharon Roate.

Merlin had a heart of gold. A kindhearted man, liked by everyone he met and loved by many.

His shoes will never be filled.

A private family service was held on Tuesday, December 22, 2020 at the Jensen funeral home in Columbus. Interment will be in Hillside Cemetery, Columbus.

We encourage you to please share your online condolences with Merlin's family at jensenfuneralandcremation.com.

Editor note: Both Merlin and Betty have been long time consignors and volunteers to the Wisconsin Wool Works - and members of the WSBC. They were very supportive, always there on load-out to help take down and clean up the booth.

SYLVIA ROSETTA ROEMBKE nee Riemer was born on August 15, 1934 to Erwin and Gertrude Riemer in Mequon, WI and was called to her Savior’s side on December 27, 2020.

She was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church, Freistadt, WI and graduated from Milwaukee Lutheran High School.

She was active in 4-­‐H, helped on the family dairy farm and found employment as a secretary. She was also a member of the Lutheran A Cappella Choir.

She married Richard ‘Dick’ Roembke on June 13, 1959 at Trinity, Freistadt, and settled in the Town of Jackson where they were blessed with four children: David (Barbara), Linda (Ronald) Eickstedt, Mark (Julie), and Ellen (Rich) Dehnel.

She is also survived by six grandchildren (Erin Roembke, Angela (Kevin) Kissinger, Rebecca Roembke, Kevin (Rebecca) Eickstedt, Danya Dehnel, Evyn Dehnel); 3 great-­‐grandchildren (Cheyenne and Sierra Kissinger, and Ila Eickstedt) and by her brothers Rev. Hilbert (Joan), Rev. Carlton (Arlene), Rev. Leroy, sister-­‐in-­‐law Joan Riemer, and brother-­‐in-­‐law Rev. Myrl Wagenknecht. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Rev. Milton, sister Marcella Wagenknecht, and grandson Jacob Eickstedt.

She was an active member at Trinity Lutheran (ELS) on Pleasant Valley Rd and enjoyed singing in the church choir. She was busy on the farm as a homemaker and supporter of the Washington County Fair and 4-­‐H. She was also very active with the WI Sheep Breeders Co-­‐op helping Dick with his position as Secretary/Treasurer. In that position, she helped coordinate sheep sales and the Wisconsin Sheep and Wool Festival. She was a strong advocate of Christian education and supported the education of her siblings and children.

Visitation will be held at Trinity Ev. Lutheran Church (1268 Pleasant Valley Rd., West Bend, WI) on Thursday, December 31, from 9 to 11am with a Funeral Service at 11am. Interment at Trinity Ev. Lutheran Cemetery to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Tuition Assistance Funds at Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School or Trinity Lutheran Church, Pleasant Valley Rd. would be appreciated.

Phillip Funeral Home Serving the Family 1420 W. Paradise Dr. West Bend, WI 53095 (262)338-­‐2050 www.phillipfuneralhome.com

Editor note: Sylvia also helped coordinate the Wisconsin Sheep Industry Conference.

THE SHEPHERD’S LAMENT

They grunt and groan with noses high, And in between, a mournful sigh;

We stand there watching nature work; Hoping there won’t be a quirk;

A leg turned back, or even worse, A lamb that’s coming in reverse;

But once they’ve lambed we’re glad to see That their efforts didn’t end in tragedy.

There’s no emotion so sublime, as a ewe and lamb that’s doing fine.

Now I lay me down to sleep, Exhausted by those dog-­‐gone sheep;

My only wish is that I might, cause them not to lamb at night;

I wouldn’t mind the occasional ewe, but lately it’s more than just a few;

Back into bed, then up again, at two o’clock and four A.M….

I’m often asked why I raise sheep, with all the work and loss of sleep;

The gratification gained at three A.M, form the birth of another baby lamb.

How can you explain, or even show?

Cause only a Shepherd will ever know!

D.L. Salisbury, D.V.M April 1, 1988

Photo credit to Jamie Orloff

Southdown lamb -­‐ Formo Family

Poem submitted by Lisa Paskey

Calendar of Events

January 29 – Feb 6, 2021 Black Hills Stock Show and Rodeo Rapid City, SD https://www.blackhillsstockshow.com/about.aspx

February 16 , 2021 Ohio State University Small Ruminant Nutrition Webinar -­‐ Online go.osu.edu/smallruminantwebinars2021

February 22-­‐27, 2021 Growing Stronger -­‐ Collaborative Conference on Organic & Sustainable Farming.

Virtual 5-­‐in-­‐1 event. bit.ly/GrowingStronger2021. Info: 888-­‐90-­‐MOSES

March 5, 2021 Livestock Lessons Deadline The next Round of Livestock Lessons will start November 1 with submissions due March 5. https://bit.ly/LivestockLessons https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/youthlivestock/

March 11, 2021, 7 p.m. CST – Virtual Lamb Live & Carcass Evaluation; Lamb Culinary products – We will pre-­‐record the live lamb evaluation and review those same lamb carcasses in the NEW Meat Science & Animal Biologics Building. We will fabricate the carcass into cuts and other products.

Speakers: Todd Taylor, Bernie O’Rourke, and Jeff Sindelar, UW Madison Animal & Dairy Sciences. Cody Hiemke, Niman Ranch Lamb Program Manager https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/youthlivestock/anisci-­‐educational-­‐programs/

April 8, 2021, 7 p.m. CST – Virtual Artificial Intelligence in Animal Sciences – We can’t wait to share some of this technology currently being done at the University of Wisconsin – Madison, Animal & Dairy Sciences Department, that helps predict livestock traits in livestock production systems by using the technology of cameras and sensors.

Speakers: Dr. Guilherme J.M. Rosa and Dr. Joao Dorea, UW Madison Animal & Dairy Sciences https://uwmadison.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0oc-­‐ 6hpz0qGNOmA3vr4yqNdvgjL68b_Zsk

April 11, 2021 Annual Meeting of the WSBC A virtual Zoom Meeting will be held on Sunday, April 11th at 7 pm. https://wisbc.com/membership/annual-­‐meeting.php

April 21, 2021 Designing Your Sheep & Goat Grazing System -­‐ Online https://extension.wisc.edu/agriculture/farm-­‐ready-­‐research/

May 6-­‐8, 2021 Ohio Showcase Sale Darke County Fairgrounds -­‐ Greenville, OH http://www.selectls.net/schedule.html

May 16 , 2021 Pioneer Showdown, Grant Co Fairgrounds, Lancaster, WI http://www.pioneershowdown.com/

June 14-­‐19, 2021 Midwest Stud Ram Sale Sedalia, MO https://www.midwestsale.com/schedule/

June 30– July 4 , 2021 All American Junior Sheep Show, Springfield, IL Illinois State Fairgrounds https://allamericanjuniorshow.com/

Sept. 10-­‐12, 2021 Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival Jefferson County Fair Park, Jefferson, WI. https://wisconsinsheepandwoolfestival.com/

October 6-­‐10, 2021 25th Annual Trailing of the Sheep Festival https://trailingofthesheep.org/