November 2015 Brangus Journal

Brangus November 2015

Journal

Technology Issue Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 1

Your SOURCE for Top Quality Registered & Commercial Brangus Cattle

Proud Members of

GO TEXAN

Circle Land & Cattle Co., Ltd. 2 | November 2015

Camp Cooley Ranch • Bobcat Bottoms Ranch • Persimmon Creek Ranch Brangus Journal Spring Valley Ranch • Windy Hill Ranch • Vista Ridge Ranch

located just off Hwy. 6 and OSR 1415 East OSR • Bryan, Texas 77808 Office: (979) 776-5760 • Fax: (979) 776-4818 Website: www.circlexbrangus.com Steve Densmore, Cattle Mgr., (979) 450-0819, cell • S.Densmore@bre.com Chris Duewall, Operations Mgr., (979) 777-6803, cell

Tim Jennings, NM Vince Roberts, The Oaks, GA

A Big Thank You

Gene Baca, Baca Ranch, NM

Clint Hughes, NM

David Walker, High Rock Farm, AL

Thomas C. Kincaid, Tres Hombres Land Co., TX

Tommy Padilla, 9-1-1 Land & Cattle LLC, NM

Brad Kincaid, B.G.& L. Ranch Co., TX

Terral Hancock, Hancock Ranch, CO

James Taylor, NM

Bob McCrea, DTMC Limited, NM

Nic Cornelison, Lake Majestik Farms, AL

Eddie Davis, Bogle LTD, NM

Danny Dean, TX

Henry McDonald, NM Chuck & Dana Wagner,

Haystack Land & Cattle, NM

Troy Floyd, Floyd Brangus, NM

Jim, Judy & Kimberly Blair, O Bar O, NM

Chris Hepinstall, Salacoa Valley Farm, GA

Luke Lucas, Lucas Ranch, LLC, NM

Seminole Tribe, FL

Mark & Melissa Hussey, Twin Spires Farm, TX Scott Branson, Scott Branson Lake Ranch, NM Gary Mendiola, Bar Guitar Ranch, NM Norma De la Garza, Rancho Godehondo, TX

Ian Tomlinson, Vera Earl Ranch, AZ Bob & Suzy Erickson, CA Mark Marley, NM Twister Smith, NM Bart Carter, AZ Jay Posey, TX Paula Ray, TX

We would like to thank all buyers who made our 2nd annual sale a success.

Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 1

Brangus

Journal

Features & Specials 32

Do It for the Brand In a technology driven society, online presence and social media have become useful tools in building your brand. Madison Crum discusses website and social media usage to boost business.

34

Contemporary Group Concepts

36

Utilization of Feed Efficiency in Marketing and Improving Genetics of Brangus Cattle

With the cost of production increasing, producers seek a cheaper and more efficient means of producing their product. Dr. Brandi Karisch stresses the importance of feed efficiency and discusses its many benefits.

38

32

Dr. Andy Herring encourages breeders to carefully consider the concepts of contemporary designation. Proper designation of contemporary groups is very important to increase genetic improvement.

34

DNA Testing: A Modern Aid in Genetic Evaluation

Dr. Segers discusses the use of genetic testing in beef cattle operations and how this can increase the value of young animals.

This increased knowledge of an animal and the genes they possess allows for increased confidence in their EPDs.

2 | November 2015

Brangus Journal

38

Katy Knox Wunderlich

November 2015 Volume 63, Issue 7

“There’s only one way to do things, and that’s ‘do things right’!”

–Kent Smith, General Manager

At Santa Rosa Ranch we will always stand behind our cattle and our program.

We welcome your visit and look forward to becoming a part of your herd!

Santa Rosa Ranch - Making The best Breed Better!™ ♦ Private Treaty Sales ♦ Bull Development ♦ Replacement Females ♦ Semen and Embryo Sales ♦ Commercial Steers and Heifers

Santa Rosa Ranch Kent Smith, General Manager (979) 540-8338 | kent@srrbrangus.com Billy McClure, Manager (870) 613-1518 | billy@srrbrangus.com Gerald Sullivan, Owner Kelley Sullivan, Owner

www.SRRBRANGUS.com Crockett & Navasota, Texas •936-624-2333 • info@srrbrangus.com Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 3

Departments

8 8 8 10

Staff Connection Director Connection Regional Connection IBBA Connection

Investing in Technology :: by Tommy Perkins, Ph.D., PAS Technology Opportunities :: by Mike Vorel Integrity in Our Technological World :: by Tyler Dean IBBA Decides Future Leadership

26

IJBBA Connection

28 30 40

IBA Connection

Technology in Our Association :: by Emilee Garza Free Money :: by Ginger Pritchard

Marketing Update

You Hold the Keys :: by Kyles Dykes

Membership

Welcome New Members Committee Seeks Nominations for Award Recipients 2016 Dates Needed for TBBA Calendar and GoBrangus.com National Cattle Evaluation Advertising Deadline Advertising and Marketing Opportunities Member Benefits Proper DNA Sampling and Shipping Leads to Fewer Failed Samples International Brangus Breeders Foundation Celebrates Anniversary

44

Show Results

51 52 58 60

Service Directory

Western National Brangus Show Oklahoma State Fair Junior Brangus Show West Texas Fair and Rodeo Junior Brangus Show

The Official Publication of the International Brangus® Breeders Association.

The Brangus Journal is an international publication serving the Brangus seedstock producer.

Published eight times annually, this archive is designed to highlight accomplishments and improvements within the association. The purpose of the Brangus Journal is to serve the best interests of the members while showcasing IBBA member breeding programs, efforts and achievements to other Brangus seedstock producers. The Journal also provides a venue for the IBBA to communicate directly with their members providing updates related to the association, publishing feature stories, or announcing results.

Publication #ISSN0006-9132. Periodicals postage paid at San Antonio, Texas, and additional entries.

Postmaster: Send address changes to Brangus Publications, Inc., 5750 Epsilon, San Antonio, Texas 78249.

Subscriptions: Frances Miller, 210.696-8231 x203, frances@gps-beef.com.

Subscription Rates: Domestic Periodicals—1 year, $25; First class—$55. Foreign—1 year, periodicals, $25; air mail to Mexico, $70, Canada, $70, Australia, $115; air mail to all other countries, $115.

Brangus Publications, Inc. 5750 Epsilon, San Antonio, Texas 78249 Telephone: 210.696.8231 Fax: 210.696.8718 Web site: gobrangus.com/Brangus-publications Email: brangusjournal@int-brangus.org BPI Officers and Board of Directors Chairman : Mike Vorel (405.826.6959) President: Dr. Tommy Perkins (210.696.8231 x212) Secretary/Treasurer : Brandon Belt (254.248.5260) Director: Michael Kammerer (936.449.5744) Director: Eddy Roberts (386.935.1416) The International Brangus® Breeders Association does not verify claims made by the advertisers in this publication.

On the Cover...

State Directory Calendar of Events Advertisers Index

Vicki Hayford of Bonifay, Florida caught this stunning Brangus heifer and graciously shared it with BPI! 4 | November 2015

Brangus Journal

Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 5

SELLING 200 BULLS SATURDAY NOVEMBER 21

SELLING 85 REGISTERED FEMALES FRIDAY NOVEMBER 20

EVERY 2009 BORN FEMALE INCLUDING 10 ELITE LOTS OF GEORGIA PEACHES AT THE FARM, FAIRMOUNT, GA

75B1 | Yosemite x New Era CED 2.8

BW 1.7

WW 29

YW 59

M 9

TM 23

SC 0.93

REA 0.59

IMF FT 0.11 -0.016

SC 0.39

REA 0.74

IMF FT 0.02 -0.024

209B4 | Stonewall x Bright Side CED 2.8

BW 0.3

WW 19

YW 51

M 12

TM 22

488B25 | Charleston x Bright Side

30B8 | Atlanta x Unitas CEM 3.4

CEM 3.7

CED 1.6

BW 1.9

WW 35

YW 65

M 11

TM 29

CEM 5.0

SC 0.7

REA 0.45

IMF FT 0.12 -0.035

BW 2.1

WW 35

YW 75

M 13

TM 30

CEM 3.6

SC 0.63

REA 0.78

BW 1.0

WW 27

YW 54

M 8

TM 21

CEM 4.1

SC 0.67

REA IMF FT 0.56 -0.02 -0.036

CEM 4.0

SC 1.51

REA 0.55

78B5 | Sherman x Csonka

332B12 | New Vision x Aces TF Wrangler 145/8 CED 2.1

CED 3.9

IMF FT 0.07 -0.025

CED 2.8

BW 3.0

WW 43

YW 86

M 11

TM 33

IMF FT 0.01 -0.033

SALACOA VALLEY FARMS

A DIVISION OF THE SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA, INC. ALEX JOHNS

Natural Resource Director | Office: 863-763-5020 | ajohns2@semtribe.com

CHRIS HEPTINSTALL

Salacoa Valley Farms, General Manager | 706-337-2295 | chris@salacoavalleybrangus.com

TODD HARVEY

Consultant | 386-288-8059 | harvey.todd12@gmail.com

www.salacoavalleybrangus.com 6 | November 2015

Brangus Journal

SELLING 200 BULLS SATURDAY NOVEMBER 21

SELLING 85 REGISTERED FEMALES FRIDAY NOVEMBER 20

EVERY 2009 BORN FEMALE INCLUDING 10 ELITE LOTS OF GEORGIA PEACHES AT THE FARM, FAIRMOUNT, GA

Georgia Peach

SVF Ms Cadence 535 W073 | Cadence x 535R40 CED 4.7

BW -0.9

WW 29

YW 62

M 19

TM 34

CEM 4.4

SC 0.34

REA 0.69

LM Miss New Vision 99B4 | New Vision x 99P21

SVF Gentleman 23 W207 | Gentleman x 23P84

IMF FT 0.02 -0.043

CED 0.7

BW 2.2

WW 30

YW 63

M 8

TM 23

CEM 2.4

SC 0.99

REA 0.3

IMF FT 0.04 -0.048

CED 5.2

BW -0.4

WW 20

YW 44

M 9

TM 19

CEM 3.7

SC 0.47

REA 0.7

IMF FT 0.08 -0.039

REA 0.66

IMF FT 0.05 -0.044

Georgia Peach

T3 Ms Atlanta 361B6 | Atlanta x Next Step CED 1.5

BW 2.4

WW 39

YW 70

M 8

TM 27

CEM 5

SC 0.66

REA 0.54

Georgia Peach

CLVR Ms New Vision 302B16 | New Vision x 302Y6 CED 4.5

BW 0.9

WW 28

YW 54

M 8

TM 22

CEM 5

SC 0.92

REA 0.64

Ms SVF Warrior 23W2 | R532 x 23S20

Ms Salacoa Atlanta 274C | Atlanta x Uppercut IMF FT 0.12 -0.042

IMF -0.1

FT -0.043

CED 1.2

BW 1.8

WW 33

YW 57

M 7

TM 23

CEM 3.8

SC 0.43

REA 0.5

IMF FT 0.09 -0.046

WW 45

YW 77

WW 28

YW 60

M 10

TM 24

CEM 3.6

SC 1.32

Donor Female from Lake Majestik Ms Brinks Ditka 99S28 | Ditka x 99P12

CLVR Ms New Vision 23B3 | New Vision x 23Y1 BW 4.9

BW -2

Georgia Peach

Georgia Peach

CED 0.0

CED 8.1

M 11

TM 34

CEM 4

SC 1.19

REA IMF FT 0.45 -0.02 -0.043

CED -0.6

BW 3.5

WW 27

YW 41

M 10

TM 24

CEM 3.8

SC 0.85

REA IMF FT 0.19 -0.12 -0.067

SALACOA VALLEY FARMS

A DIVISION OF THE SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA, INC. ALEX JOHNS

Natural Resource Director | Office: 863-763-5020 | ajohns2@semtribe.com

CHRIS HEPTINSTALL

Salacoa Valley Farms, General Manager | 706-337-2295 | chris@salacoavalleybrangus.com

TODD HARVEY

Consultant | 386-288-8059 | harvey.todd12@gmail.com

www.salacoavalleybrangus.com Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 7

Staff Connection Executive Vice President

Tommy Perkins, Ph.D., PAS

210.696.8231 x212 :: tperkins@int-brangus.org

Director of Shows and Youth Programs, Publications Editor

405.867.1421 or 405.207.6921 :: tyler@int-brangus.org

Tyler Dean

Kyle Dykes

Commercial Marketing Coordinator

254.371.9388 :: kdykes@gobrangus.com

Jessica Johnston

Communications Coordinator

210.696.8231 x211 :: jjohnston@gobrangus.com Advertising Sales Manager

Controller

Frances Miller

210.696.8231 x203 :: frances@gps-beef.com Accounting Specialist

Patti Teeler

210.696.8231 x205 :: patti@int-brangus.org Registry Specialist

Rosanne Nelson

210.696.8231 x206 :: rosanne_sralla@int-brangus.org Product Manager

Emilio Silvas

210.696.8231 x207 :: esilvas@gobrangus.com

Melanie Fuller

979.255.3343 :: mwfuller@hotmail.com

Director Connection President

Mike Vorel

Larry Parker

Area 5

First VP

Michael Kammerer

Area 7

Eddy Roberts

Area 11

Term: 2014-2017 386-935-1416 :: wetfarm1@windstream.net Secretary-Treasurer

Brandon Belt

Area 7

Term: 2015-2018 254-248-5260 :: brandonbelt@aol.com

Chuck Sword

Area 1

Term: 2013-2016 770-468-3486 :: cnffarm@aol.com

Russ Williamson

Area 7

Term: 2013-2016 903-530-5957 :: skyhawkbrangus@yahoo.com

Danny Farris

Bill Davis

Area 2

Term: 2014-2017 870-668-3329 :: bdavis@billdavistrucking.com

Term: 2014-2017 936-449-5744 :: jlkamm@earthlink.net Second VP

Area 10

Term: 2013-2016 520-508-3505 :: jddiane@vtc.net

Term: 2013-2016 405-826-6959 :: vorelfarms@gmail.com

Area 9

Term: 2013-2016 325-669-5727 :: farrisranching@yahoo.com

Cody Gariss

Area 3

Davy Sneed

Area 4

Term: 2014-2017 417-398-2836 :: cody_gariss88@hotmail.com Term: 2015-2018 615-904-5850 :: dsfarms1980@gmail.com

Carolyn Belden Carson

Area 6

Term: 2015-2018 530-713-5111 :: cbcbeef@gmail.com

Doyle Miller

Area 8

Term: 2015-2018 615-351-2783 :: dmiller@doylemillercpa.com Contact the Director(s) from your area with any questions or concerns you have about our association.

Regional Connection Don Cullen susancullen884@centurytel.net Don Hall hallbran72019@yahoo.com Heart of America Brangus Breeders Association Jim Mussulman jmussulm@yahoo.com Hill Country Brangus Breeders Association Brandon Belt brandonbelt@aol.com International Red Brangus Breeders Association Marcos Borges marcos@mbjranch.com Louisiana Brangus Breeders Association Bob Savoie bobsavoie@charter.net Mississippi Brangus Breeders Association Bill Wells wwells@bellsouth.net Alabama Brangus Breeders Association

Arkansas Brangus Breeders Association

8 | November 2015

Brangus Journal

Danny Wells dbwells72@sbcglobal.net Doug Williams whipowill@yadtel.net Southwest Brangus Breeders Association Dr. Bart Carter bjcmd@cableone.net Texas Brangus Breeders Association Doug Muenchow cattlemandoug@aol.com West Coast Brangus Breeders Association Pam Doiron doiron@spanishranch.net West Texas Brangus Breeders Association Mark Morrow 325.798.3140 Oklahoma Brangus Association

Southeast Brangus Breeders Association

Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 9

IBBA Connection Investing in Technology

T

he fall sale season is in full swing throughout the purebred industry and this is very true for the Brangus world. The good news is commercial cattlemen have been holding back more replacement heifers recently and are in need of more bulls to service those extra females. Although the cattle industry is experiencing some ups and downs in the most recent market trends, the seedstock industry is still marketing bulls at a good value. Brangus bulls offer a ton of maternal strengths without sacrificing carcass premiums in their end product.

With technology being the focus of this issue, I thought I would briefly touch on the subject matter. Many of you are heavily invested in the use of the technologies available to the beef industry. This may include use of DNA testing, embryo transfer, artificial insemination, freeze branding, or ultrasound testing. Some of you may even be using more advanced technologies such as cloning, sexed semen, in-vitro fertilization, etc. It appears the industry believes use of technology must also include a footprint on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, digital media, cellphone apps, a ranch website and others.

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10 | November 2015

Brangus Journal

by Tommy PERKINS, Ph.D., PAS IBBA Executive Vice President

Some old, but necessary technologies seem to get ignored with all of the new ones on the market. The most important use of technology on any purebred operation should include a reliable set of scales to measure individual weights. Notice I suggested a “reliable” set of scales. This starts with a good set of scales to get birthweights. A 50 year old set of non-calibrated cotton scales may not be as accurate as new set of digital scales to get a quick weight on a calf when the cow is trying to get to you. Likewise, digital scales under a squeeze chute need to be cleaned and verified accurate each time you use them. It is not uncommon for one of the load bars (cells) on the front and/or back to be in error. The key to any good data starts with this simple yet very important piece of technology – “accurate scales give accurate weights which leads to more accurate data and EPDs”.

On another note, I have been hearing a lot of discussion about contemporary grouping (CG) among many of our members.

I sometimes think we tend to overthink this very important component of the registered cattle business. We obviously have a window (or age range) of acceptance for each of the traits (e.g. weaning weight, yearling weight, ultrasound) that you must fit your data collection into. It is important that you collect data on the largest group of animals as close to the optimum collection date. For example, if your calves are born in January, February and March you should plan on weighing those animals around the fifteenth day of February the next year for yearling weight.

This would give you a 45 day window on both sides of the optimum 365 day measurement. Therefore, yearling weights would be collected with an age range of 320 days to 410 days of age even though the IBBA range of acceptability for yearling weight may be wider than this. I much prefer getting the highest percentage of animals in a CG weighed and/or measured as close to the optimum collection date (e.g. weaning weight at 205 days, yearling weight at 365 days, and ultrasound measures at 365 days) as possible.

Data submission for the next national cattle evaluation (NCE) sire summary is November 9, 2015. Please make sure you have the data input into the IBBA portal on this date or before to be included in the December evaluation. I commend all of the breeders that submitted DNA samples early enough to be included in our third genomic enhanced EPD (GE-EPDs) genetic evaluation.

Do not hesitate to call me if you have any specific questions about the new technologies, contemporary grouping, or GEEPDs. For information about all IBBA programs or other inquiries, please call (210) 696-8231 or visit www.GoBrangus. com. Stay connected to IBBA through Facebook, Twitter, or receive news updates by joining our email list. BJ

Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 11

IBBA Connection Technology Opportunities

I

hope everyone is enjoying the start of fall and cooler weather. It still seems more like summer than fall and it appears we might just skip one season and go straight into the next. Well it’s all I can do to get these articles out so I better not start trying to predict the weather.

The fall sale season will be about half over by the time this November journal comes out. It appears from early sales that the demand for Brangus genetics is very strong. I hope everyone has had a good sale season and has been able to find and purchase that special herd sire prospect or donor female. For those of you putting all the hard work and efforts to get cattle ready, printing catalogs, advertising and all it takes to have a successful sale; I hope you are happy with the end results.

This month’s Journal topic is technology. Sale time has changed a lot through technology. A big percentage of the sales are now offered over the Internet or on a TV channel. You can sit in your office, home or truck and bid on animals. It’s very popular to video cattle ahead of time and have those videos available for prospective buyers to view without getting dusty or muddy. The convenience of videoing cattle also allows for video only auctions so the cattle and cowboys don’t have the stress of trying to move cattle hurriedly to the sale ring and back to their pens in a timely manner. Probably a little stressful for the video and sale people when they lose the internet signal but I guess someone needs to be a little stressed.

Bottom line is technology is changing and affecting everyone at a rapid pace. I see people lined up waiting for the next release of the newest model phone. I am usually just getting the old one figured out and completely happy and amazed with all of its capabilities and I’m sure I only scratch the surface of the possibilities it provides.

We’ve come a long way and changes seem to happen much faster today. Most in my age group, (which we are proud to be from, so no jokes) remember when phone service came to rural areas only by way of party or shared lines. We were always busy with chores and daily duties so I can’t really remember ever needing or wanting to use the phone. But when the time came that a phone call was needed you had to present a good reason to my dad, if he said okay you next had to wait until the neighbor lady was finished telling her long winded story of the week. We were busy so you sure didn’t want to stand by the phone line waiting.

Maybe a Sunday afternoon visit with grandparents in town was about the only call necessary. There were for sure no secret calls because everyone in your home listened plus the neighbor lady who needed a story for next week. Today, if you see some one pacing or appears to have a nervous twitch or allergic reaction it’s usually because they haven’t had phone service for possibly the last 15 minutes. Our phones today serve so many purposes; they 12 | November 2015

Brangus Journal

by Mike VOREL IBBA President

are our source for information, communication, both verbal and visual. We have kids and grandkids overseas that we can visit with anytime face to face, I personally am very thankful for this technology and no extra cost.

I use our IBBA Chuteside daily from my phone. You can simply put in a PHN or registration number and locate any animal in our registry. It’s great for personal use on my own herd and on herd visits to other farms or ranches. It’s simple to be able to pull up information while evaluating animals.

You can also find contact information on members. All this information is also available with your smart phone through our IBBA website. These are very useful new technology tools available, if you don’t currently use them our IBBA staff would be glad to help you get started today. Our IBBA staff has done a great job keeping these tools updated and as user friendly as possible.

Technology today has offered IBBA members a great opportunity through genomics. Our membership is grasping this opportunity and we now have close to 5,000 animals with genomic-enhanced EPDs. The accuracies are significantly higher on young animals and very helpful in solidifying their usefulness.

We should have another 1,500 or so animals turned in every EPD run and as time goes by continually make our EPDs more valuable to our breeders and commercial customers alike.

If you missed Dr. Megan Rolf ’s article in the Fall Frontline Beef Producer, I strongly suggest you go back, look it up and read it. She does a great job explaining the usefulness and value of genomic-enhanced EPDs. The other opportunity through DNA technology is the ability to have SNPs on file for the future and be able to parent verify every animal in the future with no added cost above the 30K or 150K. I think as breeders of registered cattle it is extremely important to be able to parent verify every animal. If we are sincerely proud of our genetics and all the efforts we make to breed better cattle it’s just another step to take in solidifying our reputation. I hope everyone puts this tool to use and over time it will also prove to be valuable to us as a Brangus breed.

As caretakers of the land and cattle, technology is now and will continue to provide us many opportunities. I hope we use these opportunities to add value to our great Brangus breed.

Hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving and takes time to appreciate all the blessings we don’t always slow down and appreciate everyday. BJ

Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 13

IBBA Connection Integrity in our Technological World

by Tyler DEAN IBBA DIRECTOR OF SHOWS AND Youth PROGRAMS, Brangus Publications editor

A

dherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty. Integrity.

In today’s fast-paced technological driven world, one sometimes questions where the concept of integrity has disappeared. It is hard to sit down at night, watch the news and not hear a story on someone getting deceived, taken advantage of, or scammed out of hundreds of dollars. Oftentimes I wonder if these things have always taken place or if it is something new to our society?

While I am sure it has always been around, I honestly believe technology has allowed things to increase to whole new levels.

Perhaps it is easier for someone to deceive another since so much of our world today revolves around impersonal relationships. Texting, emailing even conducting business is handled more and more via computers and technology thus removing the human interaction aspect and making it easier for those looking for ways to get the better of someone much easier. Removing a person’s face or identity from a situation makes it much easier to stretch the truth or flat out scam them.

However, technology has made some drastic improvements in our lives as well. Our industry is not exempt from the technological advances of the world in general. Today we review herd sires online before purchasing semen, consult a video to view prospective purchases and go as far as sitting in our Lazy Boy recliner while we actually make those purchases! Indeed technology has brought about major advances to our way of doing things, but we cannot forget the key aspect to any success – integrity.

With our industry experiencing record prices and profits, it might be easy to want to fudge some details on an animal. It might be dropping a birth weight a few pounds, adding a few centimeters to a scrotal measurement or failing to advise a customer that an animal might get a little worked up at times.

14 | November 2015

Brangus Journal

All of these seem rather small in the grand scheme but are ultimately a reflection upon integrity. What happens when that animal gets a little worked up and hurts someone? What about that animal’s calves hitting the ground bigger than ever expected? Our success depends solidly upon our integrity.

Integrity is vital to getting and maintaining a customer base. Our honest marketing attempts, realistic sale promises, and loyal customer service after the sale play pivotal roles in building that base of customers that will keep us in business.

Most importantly, having integrity while we are experiencing the good times will help keep solid, loyal customers in the bad times. Having a fantastic product without having integrity – will not get you very far.

Integrity is vital as we exhibit animals. Adherence to the rules and regulations in place is key to putting forth a good image to potential customers and expanding the reach of Brangus. Shows play a huge role in exposing potential members and breeders to our animals. Keeping integrity and honesty in our display of our show cattle pays off in the long run as those potential members learn more about the breed and industry. It is very hard to imagine a win meaning much to anyone, especially if that win was achieved through any form of deception or disregard for the rules. Furthermore, such a win puts a negative light on the show industry as a whole. All too often I work to offset the stereotype that the show ring is full of cheating and disregard for the rules.

Maintain the integrity and honesty to put forth the best image possible and keep our show industry strong.

A wise man and mentor recently told me, “The only thing we have in this world is our integrity.” We might not be able to control all situations, but we can control our response and how we act. We are responsible for how we treat others and how we interact with them.

So as breeders, I challenge you to remember the key ingredient to success – integrity! BJ

we believe in the P O W E R of the NEXT GENERATION

U LT I P LY

IN VITRO FERTILIZATION • EMBRYO TRANSFER • SEXED SEMEN • RECIPIENT OPTIONS VIAGEN

CLONING

TECHNOLOGY

•

FRESH

SHIP

PROGRAM

•

LIVE

CALF

PROGRAM

U C C E S S

Whether it’s your cow family or your own family, we are committed to the next

U C C E S S

generation of cattle, and our continued support of youth programs.

You can trust Trans Ova Genetics to combine the

U C C E S S

art of reproductive technologies with the industry’s most dedicated and experienced team of

professionals to help achieve your unique breeding

U C C E S S program goals.

multiply success

®

HEADQUARTERS Sioux Center, Iowa 800.999.3586 Centerville, Texas

866.924.4586

Chillicothe, Missouri 800.372.3586 Boonsboro, Maryland 866.774.3162

www.transova.com Brangus Journal

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IBBA Connection IBBA Decides Future Leadership 2016 Board Candidate Biographies Tom Davis â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Area 1

Biographies for IBBA Board Candidates in Areas 1, 5, 7, 9 and 10 follow.

Election ballots will be mailed out to members in each respective Area on November 10, 2015.

All ballots MUST be returned to the ACCOUNTING FIRM. DO NOT RETURN BALLOTS TO THE IBBA OFFICE. Ballots MUST BE postmarked by

DECEMBER 31, 2015.

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Tom Davis and his wife Betty are owners of Cold Creek Ranch in Reynolds, Ga., where they are seedstock producers of Brangus and Ultrablack cattle. Tom is also managing partner of Great Mark Western LLC, where he is a producer of registered and commercial Angus and Ultrablack cattle. Their son Sean is currently in the Marine Corps and has plans to take over the cattle operations upon completion of his service.

Tom was raised in Kissimmee, Fla., and lived next door to the Bronson Farm where he developed his interest in ranching. This interest would have to wait, however, as he pursued his career in the business world. Tom graduated with a Business degree from Georgia State University and did post-graduate studies at Columbia University in New York.

Tom started his career at Turner Communications and says that what he learned from Ted Turner created the foundation for his success in business. He went on to work with other entrepreneurial companies in the food industry which included Lamb-Weston, where he served as VP of Sales and spearheaded their sale of value-added frozen french fries. They are owned today by ConAgra. In 1986, Tom broke out on his own and created Davis & Company, where he turned other commodity businesses in the dairy industry and others to value-added based companies.

In 2008, Tom decided to take his value-added success to the beef industry. In 2010, Tom and Betty purchased their first Brangus cattle and formed Cold Creek Ranch. In 2012, Great Mark Western (GMW) was formed and today owns approximately 400 head of reputation cattle. GMW retains ownership of the steers and sells them as boxed beef to Meats by Linz in Chicago and Continental Canteen in Detroit. Tom feels his understanding of value-added products and knowledge of the supply chain in the beef industry would serve the Brangus breed and breeders by assisting the commercial breeders in selling their value-added steers and heifers to their final destination, the consumer.

IBBA Connection IBBA Decides Future Leadership 2016 Board Candidate Biographies Christopher G. Heptinstall – Area 1

After graduating from high school, Chris cut his teeth in the cattle business day working for Debter Hereford Farm in Horton, Ala. His thoughts were to become a veterinarian, but after being involved in the production side of the business, his focus shifted to becoming a herdsman. He worked with the Debter family while earning an Associate of Science from Snead State Community College. From there he was fortunate enough to attend Auburn University; where he worked at the Auburn University Beef Teaching Unit and the Bull Development Unit, while earning his Bachelor of Science in Animal and Dairy Sciences. He was also an active member of Auburn University Block and Bridle chapter; serving on several committees, and is a life member of Auburn University Agricultural Alumni Association. While attending Auburn University, he completed an internship at Bent Tree Farms, Mountain Cove Division, where he worked on developing the Southpol composite.

After graduation, Chris took the job of Assistant Herdsman at Debter Hereford Farm. From there he was Herdsman at Flint River Farm in Owens Crossroads, Ala., and then became General Manager of Blount County Farmers Cooperative in Oneonta, Ala., where he gained more knowledge of feed, fertilizer, and chemicals. He was Secretary to the Board of Directors of Blount County Farmers Cooperative, and sat on the Strategic Planning committee for Alabama Farmers Cooperative. He was also an active member of the Blount County Cattlemen’s Association.

From here, Chris was offered the opportunity to get back into the cattle business when he was offered the position of Operations Manager at Camp Cooley Ranch. After the dispersal of Camp Cooley Ranch, Chris spent a brief time selling cattle supplements and building his own herd of cattle. In 2010, he was offered the opportunity, to become General Manager of Salacoa Valley Farms, in Fairmount, Ga. He has served the Southeast Brangus Breeder’s Association as chair of the promotions committee.

He has also served on the International Brangus Breeder’s Association’s membership and education committee, and most recently is serving on breed improvement committee.

Mike Vorel – Area 5

Mike & Robin Vorel are the owneroperators of Vorel Farms. Mike & Robin live in Luther, Okla., on a farm that has been in Mike’s family for well over 100 years. Mike has been professionally involved in agriculture his entire life.

Mike was active in both 4-H and FFA during his youth. He served on judging teams for 4-H and FFA, raised cattle and hogs, and also was awarded the State Farmer Award.

Mike operated a Registered Berkshire hog operation in 1970s-1980s. During that time he held several successful production sales and sold Berkshires across the U.S. and Japan.

He also served on the National Board of Directors for The American Berkshire Association.

Mike has always been involved in the commercial cattle business. He purchased his first Registered Brangus cattle 17 years ago and at that time made the decision to move towards an all registered Brangus herd. The commercial cows are now mostly used as ET recips. Through an intensive AI and ET program they have built a cowherd of mostly full and half-sisters.

Mike believes the future for Brangus is bright and the opportunities for growth and expansion of our Brangus breed are unlimited.

Mike has served on several IBBA committees and has served the last three years on the IBBA Board of Directors. Serving as IBBA Vice President 2014-2015 and currently as IBBA President.

Mike has always believed in serving in his community. He has served on the local school board, Oklahoma County Planning Commission, where a new Master Plan was developed during his tenure. Mike has also been in the construction business all of his adult life. Mike and Robin are long time active members of Life Church.

Mike & Robin have been blessed with four grown children, eight grandchildren and foster grandchildren. Paul and daughter Kelsey, Justin and wife Charli, son Ryan, Emily and husband Phil, sons Tanner, Hunter and Max, Lauren and husband Jeff who have graciously made the decision to be foster parents to three girls.

(Biographies continue on page 18)

Remember, you must mail your ballot to the accounting firm (not the IBBA office), postmarked by:

DECEMBER 31, 2015

Brangus Journal

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IBBA Connection IBBA Decides Future Leadership 2016 Board Candidate Biographies Lee Alford III – Area 7

Lee Alford is a fifth generation rancher, born and raised in Burleson County, Texas. He attended Caldwell High School where he was very active in the FFA. Lee was selected Star Farmer of the State of Texas his senior year. After his High School Graduation, he attended The University of Texas in Austin on a football scholarship. He is extremely proud to have played for the greatest motivator he has ever known, Coach Darrell Royal.

After leaving college, Lee married Mary Collerain, and they were blessed with two sons and three grandchildren. Mary passed away in 2013 after 50 years of marriage.

Returning to Burleson County, he expanded his existing ranching operation and was part owner and manager of Caldwell Livestock Commission Company. Upon selling his interest in the auction barn, Lee started buying and selling cattle in load lots on order from both yearling and feedlot operators. He has sold many times the number of cattle over the telephone as he has in person, operating on the premise that they will be exactly as described when they come off the truck; never having a load turned down for being inaccurately described.

In 1978, Lee leased a large ranch in far West Texas, (Culberson and Hudspeth Counties), which he operated along with his Burleson County ranch for 24 years. These ranches were stocked with commercial Brangus cows and mixed breed yearling steers.

At the end of 2002, Lee dropped the West Texas lease and started changing from commercial to registered Brangus cows.

After joining the IBBA, he served on the commercial marketing committee for several years. Lee was chosen Commercial Producer of the Year in 2010. He is currently a Director of the Post Oak Savannah Ground Water Conservation District, (Burleson and Milam Counties) and on the Board of Elders of First Presbyterian Church of Caldwell.

Lee has an extensive background in all phases of the cattle industry—registered cow/calf, commercial cow/calf, yearling, and feedlot. He believes that Brangus is the ideal breed for all phases of the industry in the Southern USA, and that he can use his experience to help all members of the IBBA in Area 7 by serving on the Board of Directors. Lee takes this opportunity to ask for both YOUR SUPPORT and YOUR VOTE.

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Darryl McDonald – Area 7

Darryl McDonald is an owner/ manager of McDonald Ranches, a registered and commercial cow/ calf operation in Bryan, Texas.

McDonald Ranches purchased their first Brangus cattle in 1967 and maintain a herd of 250 Registered Red Brangus and approximately 300 head of commercial cattle. The ranches are committed to raising cattle that will be successful in the pasture, by mating foundation sires to females that compliment and enhance the traits of the Brangus breed.

Dr. McDonald was born and raised in Central Texas. After graduating from Elgin High School in 1981, he attended Texas A&M University, where he received a B.S. in Biomedical Science in 1985, a B.S. in Veterinary Science in 1987, a DVM in 1989 and an M.S. in Small Animal Medicine and Surgery in 1993.

Following his time at Texas A&M, Dr. McDonald was a partner/staff surgeon at the Dallas Veterinary Surgical Center, a large referral veterinary specialty center, for 16 years. In 2009, Dr. McDonald returned to the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine where he served as an Adjunct Professor of Surgery for three years. Currently, Dr. McDonald devotes his time to the ranch and the Brangus breed.

In the past, Dr. McDonald has served on the IBBA Show Committee, the IBBA International Committee, and the IRBBA Board of Directors.

“I believe those who know me would agree that I am honest and trustworthy. I try to conduct myself in a professional manner and with an unquestionable integrity. I strive to be principled in my dealings with everyone and in all situations. My desire is to serve the members, the Brangus breed and the association through a careful, thoughtful and reasoned approach.”

“It is my opinion that we must work together to promote and advance the breed we love; Brangus. I contend that we can, and must, be united in a common desire to provide a superior genetic product for our customers and ourselves. The Brangus breed is uniquely positioned to have a positive impact and influence on the world’s cowherd. Brangus cattle can meet the needs of the commercial cattleman and consumer, regardless of climate and environmental conditions. We have the best breed, and the best message.”

“My purpose in running is to give back and to serve. I would appreciate your vote.”

IBBA Connection IBBA Decides Future Leadership 2016 Board Candidate Biographies Scott Vancil – Area 7

Dr. Scott Vancil grew up in Southeast Missouri helping his family operate a large row crop farming operation and registered Brangus cattle herd. His late father, Jean Vancil, and brother, Mike Vancil, began the family Brangus cattle operation in 1978. Scott purchased his first Brangus females at the age of 10.

During his youth he was actively involved with the International Junior Brangus Breeders Association, local FFA chapter, as well as state junior Brangus Associations in Missouri and Arkansas. He held various leadership roles within these groups during this time. Scott continued to breed, raise, and show Brangus cattle until he graduated from high school.

In May of 1996, Dr. Vancil graduated from the University of Missouri with a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. In the same month he married Dr. Koren Hellerich, also a graduate of the University of Missouri – College of Veterinary Medicine, and moved to Kilgore, Texas. This would begin a journey that would allow Scott to tie his profession to his passion for Brangus cattle.

Scott’s passion for breeding Brangus cattle continues today as co-owner of Iron Farm Cattle Company in Kilgore, Texas. He and his partner, Danny Males, continue to strive to produce uniform and consistent Brangus bulls and females designed to fit today’s beef industry. Additionally, IFCC is a member of the TSCRA and recently had the privilege of hosting a ranch gathering.

While his wife Koren operates and manages her own clinic, North Creek Animal Hospital, Scott owns and operates his own, mostly ambulatory, veterinary practice, Cow Doc Veterinary Services. Both practices are based in Kilgore, Texas. In addition to providing veterinary health and consultation services to local beef producers, Dr. Vancil can be found processing cattle at one of three livestock barns in East Texas on various days throughout the week.

Scott, Koren, and their son Brayden are charter members of Restoration Fellowship Church in Longview, Texas. They both have remained active in the church through Koren working in children’s ministry and Scott occypying a seat on the Pastoral Council.

Brayden is very active in 4-H, while Koren and Scott serve as co-managers of Gregg County 4-H Livestock Club. This fall Brayden began his high school career and is now involved with the local FFA chapter which Scott and Koren are now booster club members.

Both doctors are members of local, state, and national veterinary associations. Dr. Vancil is also a Board of Directors member for the Harvest Festival held annually in Longview, Texas.

With over 30 years of involvement with the Brangus breed, Scott has served on committees and had close relations in marketing Brangus cattle with many other breeders. Scott strongly supports and believes the importance of the Junior Brangus membership, which as his path has taken him, can result in a lifelong commitment to the breed. Furthermore, Scott will continue to promote and encourage the education of breeders on the importance of submitting their collected data to the IBBA to heighten the significance of obtained information needed for breed growth. As a member of the IBBA Board of Directors, Scott will serve the membership by making himself available to discuss issues important to breeders to ensure the breed’s long-term success.

Steve Densmore – Area 9

Steve Densmore has been involved in all phases of the cattle industry the majority of his life. He considers himself fortunate that Brangus cattle were one of the predominant breeds during these past decades.

Steve was raised by his mother and father, James and Nola Densmore on Essar Ranch, one of the original foundation Brangus ranches when the IBBA was founded in 1949. Essar Ranch was located on the outskirts of San Antonio, Texas, which is now part of the city of San Antonio.

After graduating from high School, Steve went to work for Alamo Angus Ranch as a cowboy and worked his way to a management position. Steve, during his employment, learned and became proficient in Artificial Insemination (Al) and palpation.

In 1973, Steve went to work for Bert Wheeler, a leader in the Charolais breed, at Camp Cooley Ranch. Steve met Mary Adam and after a two-year courtship, they married in 1976.

Steve missed Brangus cattle and Mary was attending Texas A&M University. Granada Land & Cattle in Bryan, Texas, fit Steve and Mary and became his next employer in 1979. In 1981, Dick Rothwell, owner of Horizon Land & Cattle in Flynn, Texas, talked Steve into becoming the manager of his Brangus operation.

In 1984, Steve’s daughter Maggie was born & changed Steve’s life. Steve and Maggie made a great team and Steve served as (continued on page 20) Brangus Journal

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IBBA Connection IBBA Decides Future Leadership 2016 Board Candidate Biographies (continued from page 19) advisor for the TJBBA from 1987 until 2007. He also served as an adult advisor for IJBBA for the past eight years. For his years of serving the juniors and raising funds for their projects, Steve was recognized by the juniors and received the prestigious Georganne Myers award in 2011.

Steve’s service to the Brangus breed did not stop with the juniors. He served on the IBBA Board of Directors from 1997 to 2003 and was President of the IBBA in 2002. He again was elected to the IBBA Board to serve an unexpired one-year term in 2009 and a three-year term in 2010 to 2013 in Area 9 -the same area that Steve desires to represent once again with the area members support & vote.

At the present time, Steve is employed by Circle X Land & Cattle Co, as their cattle manager. Steve has held this management position since 2000. Steve manages a large commercial cow­ calf operation of 2,000 head and a purebred Brangus cow-calf program of 325 cows. Steve is responsible for Circle X submitting much of the IBBA carcass data by backgrounding Brangus steers and collecting their data after they are fed in the various feedlots and slaughter. For the past 14 years, the IBBA has been fortunate to receive this data on thousands of Brangus steers.

Steve’s peers recognized him as the 2013 Breeder of the Year and he is now serving on the International Brangus Breeders Foundation Board in its first year of existence.

Steve has been willing to give his time and loyalty to the IBBA and the Junior Associations, where he believes he can be a positive influence. Once again, Steve knows he can help the IBBA and the members of Area 9 by representing the members from Oklahoma & Texas on the IBBA Board of Directors. Steve is once again asking for your support, vote & trust.

Danny Farris – Area 9

Danny believes it is essential to have a membership that is excited about what their association is providing to enhance the value of their investment in the seedstock segment of the beef industry. Strong leadership, personality, communication and integrity are what anchors confidence of anyone seeking an organization to actively participate in.

Danny has enjoyed getting to know many fellow breeders over the past 30 years in the registered Brangus business. He also knows there are many he hasn’t had the opportunity to meet.

Here’s a brief summary of his credentials and experience in the beef industry.

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In May 1983 Danny graduated from Louisiana Tech University with a B.S. in Animal Science. From there he went to West Texas State University, worked on a Master’s of Ag while tending to the WTSU beef cattle herd. This was his first exposure to Brangus cattle. In June 1985 he was hired as manager of Escoba Cattle Company, a well-established registered Brangus operation just south of Abilene, Texas. After 10 years, Danny had the opportunity to purchase the Escoba herd. To date he has been operating as Farris Ranching Company. With God’s grace, determination and a little luck Danny has managed to “cash flow” a seedstock operation.

Mary Beth and Danny will celebrate 31 years of marriage in November. Their children, Katelyn and Payton grew up in the “Brangus family”. The Farris’ have many fond memories of Katelyn and Payton’s IJBBA years.

In the past Danny has served as board member for the IBBA, TBBA, WTBBA and HCBBA. He also served as president of WTBBA two separate terms.

Danny has devoted his adult life to the Brangus breed. The demand for Brangus has provided for his family since 1985.

Danny will serve to ensure this dynamic breed’s long-term success in the beef industry.

Troy Floyd – Area 10

The Floyd’s make their living raising Brangus cattle on a 32,000acre rock pile in the Eastern foothills of the Sacramento Mountains west of Roswell, N.M. Troy acquired his first Brangus cattle in 1971 and joined the IBBA shortly after that. His IBBA membership number is 2254. Troy is a past president of Southwest Brangus Breeders Association and was a registration inspector for IBBA until self-inspections started.

Troy is currently chairman of the Chaves County FSA county committee.

His wife Terri is a life member of the IBA and a past chairperson of the scholarship committee. Terri and Troy have two grown children, Kevin Floyd and Sally Allen. They both showed Brangus heifers when they were in school and Sally served on the IJBBA board of directors.

Thank you for your consideration. BJ

Remember, you must mail your ballot to the accounting firm (not the IBBA office), postmarked by:

DECEMBER 31, 2015

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IJBBA Connection Technology in Our Association

I

by Emilee GARZA IjBBA SECRETARY

believe that the new technological advances in all aspects of life are fantastic. Living close to the “big city” of Houston, Texas, Wi-Fi is offered just about anywhere.

I can log into gobrangus.com at any time of the day; however, access can become more limited in the middle of rural America.

Online access to our association is a very reliable source of information. I especially enjoy how convenient it is to be talking bulls with someone and being able to go online and look up any sire with the touch of a button. This technology also comes in handy when deciding which bull is best suited to breed certain cows.

It is very important to record all performance data and report it to the association making the information accessible to everyone online. Having that information will save boat loads of money for anyone who is trying to utilize AI technology with big named bulls. Synchronizing and tracking heats becomes

more popular and easier to do when using advanced breeding technology. Being able to compare EPD’s side by side will greatly enhance productivity in all breeding programs. Also, having the information of herd sires at the tips of our fingers will maximize any cattle operation, thus improving the quality of individual herds.

The Brangus breed as a whole has a very strong breeding foundation and with technology on our side we can utilize website advertisements, online auctions, along with other means to promote this breed. Brangus breeders all over the world are growing and expanding, having the technology to reach across the nation or to another country and communicate with other breeders is outstanding.

Retrieving information and applying that into our herds is why Brangus is such an incredible breed of cattle.

There is no doubt that with adequate record keeping and utilizing technology the Brangus breed can continue to prove itself. BJ

2015-2016 IJBBA ADVISORY COMMITTEE

2015-2016 IJBBA Board of Directors

Chairman Mike Kammerer, Montgomery, TX jlkamm@earthlink.com

Director of Youth Activities Tyler Dean, Maysville, OK tyler@int-brangus.org

President Quinn Carter, Haines City, FL quinn.carter95@yahoo.com

Ex-Officio Racheal Sharp, Konawa, OK racheal.sharp.rs@gmail.com

Term Expires 2015 Steve Densmore, Bryan, TX sdensmore@bre.com

Term Expires 2015 Veronica Munoz, Pearland, TX vsmunoz@munozcattlecompany.com

Vice President Allyson Polston, Lakeland, FL goober4141@gmail.com

SOC Sale Chair Meghan Pickett, Robeline, LA meghanpickett14@gmail.com

Term Expires 2016 Ginger Pritchard, McLoud, OK gingerdp@aol.com

Term Expires 2016 Sharron McCreary, Evergreen, AL mccrearyfarms@hotmail.com

Secretary Emilee Garza, Spring, TX garza.emilee1@gmail.com

Reporter McKenzie Posey, Wayne, OK posey_mckenzie@yahoo.com

Term Expires 2017 Myron Saathoff, Hondo, TX myronsaathoff@yahoo.com

Term Expires 2017 Traci Middleton, Puryear, TN tracimiddleton@hotmail.com

Director Kendra Brull, Atchison, KS kendrabrull20@gmail.com

Director Dana Patterson, Alachua, FL dpatterson.2016@gmail.com

For the most current IJBBA information: VISIT junior.gobrangus.com or LIKE US on FACEBOOK 26 | November 2015

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Director Director Dakota Williams, Ash Flat, AR Andreya Mitchell, Seminole, OK dakotaawilliams549@gmail.com andreya1998.am@gmail.com IBBA Queen McKenzie Posey, Wayne, OK posey_mckenzie@yahoo.com

Introducing

y c a Leg Female The 2016 IJBBA

offered by: Diamond K Ranch

Diamond K’s Miss Legacy 915C4 January 29, 2015 R10284133 Sire: Doguet’s Hercules 88S3 Dam: Miss JLS Grace 915Z

www.diamondkranchtexas.com Diamond K Ranch Wayne and Shawn Knox Paul and Katy Wunderlich (979) 571-7498

She sells at the 2016 CUSTOMER APPRECIATION SALE Houston, TX Watch the Brangus Journal for more information!

T

he IJBBA is excited to introduce the 2016 Legacy Female. Designed to help fund the IJBBA Legacy Leadership Conference, the IJBBA Board of Directors, and the National Junior Brangus Show as well as build upon the legacy of proven Brangus leaders that the IJBBA is known to produce.

Coming from a ranch with a proven record of dedication to the future of our great breed, Diamond K’s Miss Legacy 915C4 exemplifies the committment Diamond K Ranch has to the success of the junior program. With a past IJBBA Director in the family, Diamond K knows first hand the benefits of our strong junior association.

Miss Legacy is the second heifer Diamond K Ranch has offered to the IJBBA in the past 5 years and is a solid statement to the type and kind of cattle that keeps Diamond K Ranch returning to the picture backdrop. Incrediby feminine fronted, deep made, strong topped and beautifully built, she will make a powerful addition to anyone’s program and probably find her way to anyone’s donor pen!

You are invited to participate in a group effort to purchase this female. For more information, please contact Tyler Dean (405)867-1421. All proceeds go to benefit the Brangus juniors! Don’t miss this unique buying opportunity that supports a great cause. We’ll see you in Houston!

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IBA Connection FREE MONEY!!!!!

T

he International Brangus Auxiliary (IBA) promotes Brangus and education through educational scholarships available to all International Junior Brangus Breeders Association (IJBBA) members.

Applicants and winners represent a competitive cross section of young Brangus breeders throughout the United States. The IBA has awarded scholarships since 1979 in the aggregate of $402,500.

To be eligible for a scholarship, the applicant must have been an IJBBA member for at least one year and participate in the scholarship application process. All IJBBA members who are high school seniors, college students, or students at a technical college are encouraged to apply. The forms can be downloaded from the IJBBA website as a link from the IBBA website. Scholarship deadlines have been extended to January 15. In addition to our traditional scholarships, we are offering a special scholarship available for deserving IJBBA members from Georgia and additional funding from the Terry Dean Memorial scholarship to members.

There are several categories of scholarships available in amounts up to $2,500 each. A member may receive a maximum of two IBA scholarships.

We had a fantastic turn out for the IBA scholarship workshop at the NJBS this year. I hope I was able to answer many of the questions you had. Remember to follow the directions on the application; do not add any pages and be as complete as possible. A great resource is your 4-H and FFA record books.

The application is not as hard as it looks; just take it a page at a time. It is never too early to get started completing the forms! If you have any questions or concerns call me, IBAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scholarship chairperson, at (405)878-6189 or email me at gingerdp@aol. com. I will be glad to walk you through the application. Just yell HELP! BJ

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by Ginger PRITCHARD IBA Scholarship Chairwoman

IBA SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

Underclassman

Graduating High School Seniors

Upperclassman

Current College Students

Ray Mackey Memorial

Underclassman and Upperclassman - Based on Financial Need

Alternate Education

Junior College, Technical College, Professional School

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Marketing Update You Hold the Keys!

I

t has been a great fall thus far. The weather has cooled off slightly and sale season is in full swing. Please send in your sale results by requesting a sale report form from the office. Not only will submitting a sale report to the association get you some sale publicity in the next journal, but it will also show how your cattle are doing in today’s market.

Also be sure and capitalize on the opportunity to advertise in the eNewsletter and the eBlasts that are available each week. Contact the office to learn more about those options.

Cattle prices backed off just a notch overall, but I am confident that we can manage this price fluctuation with strong sales and monitoring the supply and demand of the nations cow herd. Not to mention this is not uncommon from previous years in the cattle market where there are spring highs and fall lows, meaning we should be expecting a rally going into the spring, h o p e f u l l y.

Whatever your thoughts are on the m a r k e t whether you are a little nervous or still confident, don’t let it affect your plans to buy the highest quality cattle you can afford.

Brangus cattle across the country are in great condition and I have no doubt that they will maintain the highest demand that the market can offer come sale time.

As we make the fall run we will hopefully see cattle receipts improve. Another factor that has affected beef production in the past and still can today is retail beef prices and the American consumers response to these prices they encounter at their local market. Even as some may consider retail pricing to be the sole factor affecting the demand for beef it may not be the single culprit after all. The latest talk is that broiler and pork production are both at an all time high while beef production is still at long time lows. That doesn’t mean we aren’t expanding beef production, that is what last years increase was all about, but that the high prices that came from it were due to the shortage in protein production overall (including poultry and pork). Now that the poultry and pork sectors have their outbreaks under control, and they are able to make increases at a significantly higher rate than cattle producers are, it has somewhat saturated the meat market if you will.

Never the less, cattle prices are staying strong and the solution that we are seeing to this competition in meat production is the great education that cattle producers and specialists in the

by Kyle DYKES IBBa commercial marketing Coordinator

beef sector are communicating to consumers. We are seeing consumers realizing the value they get from beef and that they aren’t as sensitive to those prices as in the past. The way Lance Zimmerman of CattleFax puts it; “Consumers are better off now than they were at the same point last year”. Thus, more comfortable now than in the recent years leading up these prices and are more willing to pay the higher prices for beef because they prefer it when they can afford it. However, it is crucial that consumers know that beef retail cuts are going to drop in response to the current fed cattle price situations. This enables all areas of the industry to maintain a balance of supply and demand. As more beef in consumed demand goes up, but the opposite holds true as well. At the end of the day it is about promoting beef and making it the number one choice of consumers every time. While it is not entirely possible to make it the number one choice EVERY time, industry organizations such as NCBA and C at t l e m a n’s Beef Board and many more work tirelessly to increase demand for beef on the consumer end.

Once again the success of your marketing scheme relates to the quality of cattle you are producing. If you give up the quality of product then you are taking that added value away from the consumers thought process.

The great news is that the past few years in the cattle business has given us as cattlemen a chance to improve the nations cow herd. It was a great opportunity to retain heifers and cut back cull cow rates. Therefore, helping to improve the performance and ultimately the quality of the final product on the plate. If we continue to try our best at making the most sound breeding decisions and contributing the best animals we can make for the market then we will be able to maintain the upper hand in terms of price and value for the products we supply to the food chain.

Be involved in the industry and capitalize on every opportunity you get to meet industry leaders and show your support. Take advantage of the great profits that you hopefully gained from record prices over the past year and invest that back into your operation in the way of genetic improvement. This will ensure that you are doing your part to deliver the best product and ultimately increase satisfaction and consumption of it across the nation. Thanks for reading and God Bless! BJ

Take advantage of the great profits that you hopefully gained from record prices over the past year and invest that back into your operation in the way of genetic improvement.

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Feature Article Do It for the

Brand

F

or most ranchers, branding season is one of the most rewarding times of the year. Family and friends come together in genuine camaraderie, gathering cattle and teaching their children how to rope, flank and brand.

However, for those not raised around ranching, branding carries an entirely different meaning. Today, branding is most commonly defined as “a particular identity or image regarded as an asset.”

Employing technology is the quickest, cheapest and easiest way to turn your brand into an asset for your business.

Ranchers most often utilize word-of-mouth and printed publications for advertising. While these are effective marketing tools, our increasingly tech-driven society requires more than just business cards and handshakes to build relationships.

In a recent study by We are Social, a leading social media consulting firm, 3.1 billion of the world’s 7.2 billion people use the Internet. Global social media penetration exceeds 30 percent, with 2.2 billion social media users worldwide.

The same study projects that within one year, the world’s active Internet users will grow by 21 percent, and the number of active social media accounts will rise by 12 percent.

Using only print advertising limits an advertisement’s reach to a few publications in a relatively small industry.

Employing a well-designed and managed website automatically expands that reach to over 3 billion people worldwide.

Several agriculturally-based website companies are available for hire, as well as free page building sites. Several factors impact which option is best for a business, including cost, quality and usability. Hiring a professional company to build a website typically costs between $4,000 and $10,000, depending on the requirements. Free web building sites require some skill in basic design and several hours of work to make a quality, functioning site.

A good website should be up-to-date, easy to navigate and aesthetically pleasing. A ranch website should feature appropriate colors, text that is easy to read and quality photographs. Simplicity is another key aspect to a good website.

The website’s content should be informative and help the user make a decision or learn something new. Navigating 32 | November 2015

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by Madison CRUM

your website should be a journey for visitors, making them trust and respect your brand and company.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is another way to set your website apart from the rest. Use important keywords frequently in your site’s text, and consider hiring a company specializing in SEO to promote your business. A website is one of the most powerful promotional products available, but only if it can be found.

Feature Article Acclimating to a new environment is crucial to survival. If Social media sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram can also be powerful tools in an operation’s success. Building a social ranchers and producers want future success, they must adopt media page is an easy, cost-effective way to market your company technology in every facet of their operation. Websites and social media are just one way to boost business and remain relevant. in a relatable, interactive platform.

Ride, promote and post for your brand, it’s worth it. BJ According to a recent Cone, Inc. study, 93 percent of Americans expect companies to have a presence on social media.

Additionally, 85 percent say that companies should interact with consumers via social media, and men are twice as likely to ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Madison Crum is a senior Animal Science and Agricultural Communications interact with companies on social media than women. and Journalism major at Texas A&M University. Madison grew up helping her If Facebook were a country, it would be the most populous father run their commercial cow-calf operations in Ark., and N.M. nation on earth. With over 1.4 billion accounts, the social media giant dominates the field in the total number of users.

One way to utilize Facebook as a marketing tool is to create a free fan page. This option allows a business to not only post pictures, videos and written content, but also create offers, events and milestones that bring attention to the company.

Facebook also offers paid advertising, expanding your page’s reach and increasing total likes. The minimum price to run an ad on Facebook is $1.00 per day. Users set a budget for Facebook, and pay for either post engagement, likes or impressions. Facebook utilizes search engine optimization to show your ad to the people most likely interested in your product or service.

Facebook groups are another free and easy way to promote your business.

Hundreds of cattle groups exist, ranging from general, public groups to highly specific and private pages. Groups are Time, they say, is money. GeneSeek® Genomic free and a good way to advertise your Profiles™ (GGP) help you select young seedstock with operation to people with similar interests confidence. With GGP you can focus time and money and needs. Buying and selling cattle from ads on Facebook is growing in popularity on the best – the cattle that brand your legacy. as more people rely on social media as an Verify maternal, performance and carcass traits in information source.

Jill Ginn Twitter and Instagram are also powerful one accurate profile. Plus confirm parentage and GeneSeek/Igenity® marketing tools. Twitter allows for short, Territory Manager genetic health in the same step.

806-570-6185 quick interaction between users, and a valuable news source for Millennials.

Just imagine the possibilities. We know you are good jginn@neogen.com Instagram offers businesses an opportunity at what you do. GGP makes you even better. to share pictures, giving their followers a valuable insight into daily operations. ® A 2014 Forrester Research Inc. survey GeneSeek – a New Brand of Partner showed that brands with an Instagram received 58 times more engagement per follower than Facebook, and 120 times Neogen: GeneSeek Operations • 4131 N. 48th Street, Lincoln, NE 68504 877-443-6489 • www.neogen.com/Genomics • geneseekinfo@neogen.com more engagement per follower than Twitter.

Time. Money. Reputation.

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November 2015 | 33

Feature Article

Contemporary Group

by Andy D. HERRING JOHN K. RIGGS ‘41 BEEF CATTLE PROFESSOR DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL SCIENCE TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

Concepts

T

he basic equation in understanding genetic improvement for most traits is P = G + E (performance = genetics + environment). We understand in theory that both the genetic potential of the animal in combination with proper environmental influences are needed to have desirable and profitable performance. However, many people may not realize that contemporary group recognition and classification is the first step in separating genetic and environmental influences, which is critical for genetic improvement. It is this initial ability to separate genetic effects from non-genetic (i.e. environmental) effects that is actually the foundation of herd’s and breed’s genetic improvement programs. The main points and usefulness of contemporary group consideration and designation are discussed here.

Consider the measurement of some trait in a group of animals.

For this discussion, let’s use birth weight as an example. There is a typical expected range in birth weights within any set of calves born in the same herd, year, and season. Also, there are expected differences in birth weights across years, across seasons, and across herds. Think about all the different influences that might make some calves weigh differently at the time of their birth.

Several of these are itemized in Table 1. So now, think about modifying the equation we started with above to “differences in performance are due to differences in genetics and differences in environment.”

If we knew the birth weight of every calf born in the USA exactly to the single pound, but we did not know anything else about these data, then that very precisely measured information would have very little use (if any at all). We would have no way to relate the differences in birth weight to any possible influences, so all the differences would just seem like “noise” in our data.

The Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) defines contemporary group as “a group of cattle that are of the same breed composition and sex, are similar in age, and have been raised under the same management conditions. More simply put, a contemporary group is a group of animals that have had an equal opportunity to perform.”

If animals have the same opportunity to perform (such as being produced in the same environment), then the differences in their performance should be due to genetics. This thought 34 | November 2015

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Table 1. Some possible factors that can influence birth weights in calves.

Sex of calf Age of dam Supplemental feed during gestation Family differences for growth Pasture conditions this year Placental efficiency of dam Breed differences Type of crossbred calf Soil fertility differences can be applied in many situations. For instance, if we did not differentiate between first-generation and multi-generation Brangus, the extra hybrid vigor in the first-generation animals would be attributed to differences in their additive genetic (breeding) values, and they would therefore have higher calculated EPDs. However, hybrid vigor is due to favorable gene combinations, and these combinations are not passed from parents to offspring. Two animals could have the same breeding values as parents, but be different in their performance because of hybrid vigor. Many purebred breeders recognize and understand differences in genetic groups, and differences due to age of dam; however, many may overlook potential differences in management groups, at least in some cases. If cows are grouped differently due to body condition, age, bloodline, etc. so they can be managed differently, these separated groups always result in different contemporary groups.

Consider the birth weights of some purebred calves of the same sex from a ranch (Table 2). There are four calves from two

Feature Article Table 2. Birth weights of calves of the same sex, born in the same year, in two different pastures on the same ranch.

Calf ID 106D 108D 109D 113D 115D 116D 119D 123D

Pasture A B B A A B A B

Birth weight 87 76 80 80 83 71 75 82

Difference from overall average birth weight +7.7 -3.3 +0.7 +0.7 +3.7 -8.3 -4.3 +2.7

sets of cows (Pasture A and Pasture B). If there are no obvious differences between these two sets of cows (such as both groups have mixed ages of cows, groups not fed differently during last trimester, both pastures in same type of land terrain, etc.), most people would assume that both these sets of cows (and their calves) are all the same contemporary group (which may or may not be true). For this scenario the overall average birth weight for these eight calves is 79.3 lbs. The difference of each calf â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birth weight from the overall average is shown in Table 2. Calves with the same birth weight (109D and 113D) have the same deviation from the overall average. However, the average birth weight of the four calves born in Pasture A is 81.3 lbs., and the average birth weight of the four calves born in Pasture B is 77.3 lbs. So for some reason that is unknown, these pastures have different effects on birth weight in this ranch.

There is something about these two pastures that make the average weight in Pasture B 4 lbs. less than Pasture A. If this pasture difference is not known or accounted for (such as if all these calves are assigned the same contemporary group code), this pasture difference adds â&#x20AC;&#x153;noiseâ&#x20AC;? to the genetic predictions. Calf 109D had birth weight 2.7 lbs. higher than its contemporaries, whereas 113D had birth weight 1.3 lbs. less than its contemporaries.

Also, two calves (116D and 119D) had birth weights that were 4 lbs. different, but relative to their contemporaries, they were both 6.3 lbs. lighter. Groups of cows that are kept and managed separately need to have their calves designated as separate contemporary groups.

Another question can come up about cows that are grouped differently only during the breeding season, and whether or not this constitutes different contemporary groups. If the cows (heifers) are grouped by breeding pasture for three months or less, and there are no obvious differences in these pastures/groups or the management therein, and then the groups are combined back together for the rest of the year, then it is probably pretty safe to

Difference from pasture average birth weight +5.7 -1.3 +2.7 -1.3 +1.7 -6.3 -6.3 +4.7

just consider these as one contemporary group. If the groups are separated for long periods of time, or if they are not managed the same while separated, then they probably need to be designated as different contemporary groups. If groups are always kept separate, they are different contemporary groups.

Proper designation of contemporary groups is the first step in separating genetic influences from environmental influences, and is very important to increase the effectiveness of breed improvement programs and EPD calculations. Improper designation of contemporary groups is the most common problem that breed associations have with records in their breed improvement programs, and breeders are encouraged to carefully consider the concepts of contemporary group designation as they submit performance records. BJ ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Dr. Andy Herring teaches beef cattle production courses and conducts research at Texas A&M University. His research is targeted towards breeding and genetic influences on beef cattle production systems and supply chain considerations.

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November 2015 | 35

Feature Article Utilization of

Feed Efficiency

W

by Brandi KARISCH, Ph.D. MISSISSIPPI state university EXTENSION BEEF CATTLE SPECIALIST

in Marketing or Improving Genetics of Brangus Cattle

ith cost of livestock production increasing each year, producers are continually searching for a cheaper, more efficient way to produce their product. Any beef producer who has filled up a diesel pickup truck or been to the local feed store lately has a good understanding of just how much input costs have climbed in recent years. Even though diesel and corn are relatively cheaper currently, we all know how quickly markets can change. Improving the efficiency of your operation requires several things, but perhaps most important of these are measurements and records. The saying “you can’t manage (or improve) what you don’t measure” is very applicable to the discussion of measuring efficiency of a beef cattle operation.

Brangus breeders have the unique ability to have a big impact on profitability for both Brangus and commercial producers across the country. Improved profit definitely serves as a good marketing tool.

The cow/calf phase of production represents a large portion of the expense involved in beef production. Feed energy consumption during the cow/calf component of the production cycle represents as much as 65 percent of the metabolizable energy (ME) consumed from conception to harvest (Ferrell and Jenkins, 1982). However, the conversion of feed into animal products during the post-weaning growth phase still has a large influence on the cost of producing beef (Tess and Kolstad, 2000; Herd et al., 2003). In a review beef cattle energetic efficiency, Johnson et al. (2003) noted that fattening steers retain only 1618 percent of energy that they consume. Taken in combination, these numbers emphasize the importance of improving e f f i c i e n c y throughout the production chain.

One more number that is important to consider when emphasizing the importance of improving feed efficiency is four, as in a four times greater economic 36 | November 2015

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impact can be made by improving feed efficiency by 5 percent vs. improving average daily gain by 5 percent (Basarab et al., 2002).

For the cow/calf producer, it is interesting to know that regardless of cow type approximately 73 percent of ME consumed by a mature cow is used for maintenance (Ferrell and Jenkins, 1985). Large portions of feed expenses for the cow/calf producer are directed just to maintain the cow, not accounting for lactation, growth, energy storage, or reproduction. Therefore, reducing cow maintenance requirement may be an effective way to improve cow-herd efficiency by allowing more of consumed energy to be directed toward other sources, such as lactation, or fat storage, and may also be an effective way to improve profitability. During periods where intake is limited, i.e. drought or winter, those more efficient cows would be more able to maintain their weight, and/ or condition perhaps due to lower maintenance requirements.

There are many factors, such as milk production, temperament, maintenance requirements, or tissue accretion, which may affect why some cows are more efficient at converting available forage resources to pounds of calf weaned. It is important to identify cows that are more efficient in converting available forage resources into more pounds of weaned calf, while still maintaining adequate condition to ensure rebreeding.

For all groups of cattle, feed costs are the single largest

Feature Article variable expense. However, previous selection strategies have been focused primarily on increasing growth at weaning or other output traits. This strategy neglects the fact that it often costs more feed to get that increased weight gain, and might not be the most profitable strategy. Selection for improved feed efficiency in growing calves could reduce feed required for gain, and thereby improve profitability for an operation.

The most common trait used is feed conversion ratio (FCR), which is simply the ratio of feed intake to ADG. One potential drawback of using this trait is that selection for FCR would select for cattle with an increased growth rate and ultimately increased mature body size thereby increasing maintenance requirements.

Another trait has been proposed to measure feed efficiency that gets around this problem. Residual feed intake (RFI) is the difference between an animal’s actual feed intake and the amount of feed an animal is expected to eat based on its size and growth rate, and measures variation in feed intake independent of growth rate and mature size. This is the trait often used in genetic evaluation, and in many testing centers utilized by Brangus breeders.

One major drawback to measuring feed efficiency for most beef producers is the need to have individual feed intake of animals, which can be costly. However, in recent years, many options have become available for producers to have bulls or females tested for feed efficiency. There are options available in several regions of the country that offer a commercial feed efficiency test. The Genetic Development Center is located in Navasota, Texas, and offers two tests per year for both bulls and heifers. The Green Springs Bull Test Center is located in Nevada, Mo., and the University of Florida Test Center is in Mariana, Fla. The Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) was formed as a means to standardize programs and methodologies, and to create greater awareness, acceptance and usage of performance concepts in beef production, including feed intake measurement.

The 9th edition of the BIF Guidelines specifically address postweaning feed intake (BIF, 2010). There are several key things that should be considered when deciding to measure feed intake to be used in genetic evaluation. First and foremost, cattle should be housed in groups, utilizing a system such as GrowSafe or Calan gate systems to measure intake while taking into account group feeding dynamics. This means that animals that are fed in individual pens cannot be used for feed efficiency data. Animals should be tested at a young age, after weaning, but not younger than 240 days. At the end of the test, the animal should not be older than 390 days. This gives a fairly narrow window in which animals can be tested for feed efficiency to be utilized in genetic analysis.

Recently, there has been discussion about the length of time feed intake should be measured for these tests. The current BIF guidelines recommend a minimum of 21 day adaptation period, with 70 days for the testing period. In all, this gives a total of 91 days minimum that cattle must be at the testing facility, which can lead to added expense, and ultimately less cattle tested for feed efficiency. This recommendation is based on the amount of time previous research has shown is necessary to provide accurate measurements of both feed intake and body weight

gain. Currently, the Feed Intake Guidelines committee of BIF is examining shortening the test period to a 35 day intake test (56 day total on test) based on recent research that was highlighted during the 2015 BIF Convention in Biloxi conducted at Kansas State University.

Many have recognized the need for an improvement in efficiency, and EPDs or genetic tests are currently available for several breeds of cattle to select seedstock based on this criteria.

There are several options available for genetic testing, and some even offer the benefit of a test for feed efficiency. It is important to utilize a test that has been developed with a Bos indicus group of cattle, as this will better fit your animals being tested. Most companies that offer genetic testing services are happy to visit about their products, and what options would work best for improving and marketing your cattle.

Navigating the world of feed efficiency may offer some initial challenges, however, the benefits are tremendous. From a marketing standpoint, what could be a better selling tool than showing a producer that a bull will improve his bottom line!

Making progress and improving the utilization of feed efficiency in the Brangus breed requires a commitment of both time and funds by both breeders and the association. It will require breeders to commit to having cattle tested, both phenotypically and genetically. The old saying still rings true in this sense “you can’t improve (or market) what you don’t measure.” I encourage each of you as breeders to take an active role in the utilization of feed efficiency in the Brangus breed. There are exciting times ahead for the beef industry, and you have an opportunity to be on the forefront of making important changes. Get in the driver’s seat! BJ ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Dr. Brandi Karisch is the Beef Cattle Extension Specialist for Mississippi State University. Dr. Karisch grew up in Donaldsonville, La., and graduated from LSU with a bachelor’s in Animal Science. Her M.S. and Ph.D. are both from Texas A&M University with a beef cattle nutrition emphasis and a focus on improving efficiency of both the cowherd and growing cattle. Her current research and Extension programs focus on systems to improve the health and performance of stocker cattle in the Southeast.

References: Basarab, J.A., M.A. Price, and E.K. Okine. 2002. Commercialization of net feed efficiency.

Memo. Western Forage Group, Alberta Agric. Food and Rural Development Ctr. Lacombe, Alberta, Canada: p. 12.

Beef Improvement Federation (BIF). 2010. Guidelines for uniform beef improvement programs. 9th ed. BIF, Raleigh, NC. Ferrell, C. L., and T. G. Jenkins. 1982. Efficiency of cows of different size and milk production potential. Pages 12–24 in USDA, ARS, Germplasm Evaluation Program Progress Report No. 10:12.MARC, Clay Center, NE. Ferrell, C. L. and T. G. Jenkins. 1985. Cow type and the nutritional environment: Nutritional aspects. J. Anim. Sci. 61:725-741.

Herd, R.M., Archer, J.A. & Arthur, P.F., 2003. Reducing the cost of beef production through genetic improvement in residual feed intake: Opportunity and challenges to application. J. Anim Sci. 81, 9-17 Johnson, D.E., C.L. Ferrell, and T.G. Jenkins. 2003. The history of energetic efficiency research: Where have we been and where are we going. J. Anim. Sci. 81(E. Suppl. 1) E27-E38.

Tess, M.W. and B.W. Kolstad. 2000. Simulation of cow-calf production systems in a range environment: I: Model development. J. Anim. Sci. 78:1159-1169.

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Feature Article

DNA Testing:

by Jacob R. SEGERS, Ph.d.

EXTENSION BEEF CATTLE SCIENTIST UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA COASTAL PLAIN EXPERIMENT STATION

A Modern Aid in Genetic Evaluation

I

n the spring of 1953, Watson and Crick published a onepage letter in the journal, Nature. The letter explained that they had discovered the three-dimensional structure of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). This letter also contained what is arguably the most famous understatement in scientific history, “This structure has novel features which are of considerable biological interest.” Some 30 years later, Alec Jefferies developed a process for “genetic fingerprinting;” a process for identifying individuals based on their unique genetic code. Nine years after Jefferies’ discovery, genetic fingerprinting was thrust into the limelight during the O.J. Simpson murder trial. Since that infamous verdict was handed down, the floodgates have opened on the expansion of DNA-based technologies across almost all sectors of the biological sciences.

Right or wrong, in today’s world, genetic testing is considered the strongest form of evidence in every situation from criminal trials to cancer screening, to paternity testing. If you just sensed a shift in gears, you are correct. In this case, I’m not referring to Maury Povich’s brand of paternity test, but rather the application of DNA-based technology to genetic improvement of beef cattle.

Genomic testing is not necessarily a new idea in the eyes of science, but its application in today’s beef industry is still met with some confusion. Much of this confusion is focused around terminology. Genetic terminology can be intimidating at first, but it is not insurmountable. Most companies that market genetic testing technology will be happy to walk you through an interpretation of the results. Also extension agents and specialist have access to a great deal of information on these technologies.

Still, apprehension and confusion needs to be addressed, as the results of genomic testing have become a powerful tool for progressive producers to use in the establishment of breeding plans as well as evaluation of potential breeding options.

Testing for Parentage or Simply-Inherited Traits

Genetic testing, not unlike EPDs are based on the principles of inheritance. Inheritance is most easily explained using “simply-inherited” traits. Simply-inherited traits are controlled by a single gene. For cattlemen, color and horned status are the best examples. We all remember the days when almost every conversation about a potential herd sire involved the words “homozygous black and homozygous polled.” Black color status is controlled by a single gene with two possible outcomes: black calf or red calf. These outcomes are dependent upon which two alleles (versions of the gene) the animal possesses. Animals always have two alleles, or versions, for each gene (one from sire and one from dam). The black allele is dominant to red. This means that a black animal may carry two black alleles or one black and one red allele. Because the red allele is recessive, an animal must possess two copies of the red allele for the animal to actually be red in color. A similar situation exists for horned status where the horned animal carries two copies of the recessive allele.

The idea of parents donating a copy of each allele to the offspring is the basis for parentage testing in cattle. Parentage testing has been available for a while, but is extremely useful for producers who expose cows to multiple sires, or employ a cleanup bull after AI exposure. Genotyping the animals allow for the true sire to be correctly identified. These genetic tests promote informed breeding and culling decisions by helping to identify bulls that are making the largest amount of progress toward the producer’s genetic goals. Unlike simply-inherited traits, parentage tests looks at the expression of many genes or markers to compare calf to parent with greater certainty.

Parentage or simply-inherited traits Example: Let’s say we have a calf with two potential sires. For simplicity’s sake, we will examine only one gene.

Calf

Dam

Sire 1

Sire 2

Gene 1 Allele 1 Allele 2 A B

Gene 1 Allele 1 Allele 2 B B

Gene 1 Allele 1 Allele 2 A B

Gene 1 Allele 1 Allele 2 B B

We can see by the presence of the A allele or “marker” in the calf that Sire 1 must be the calf ’s true sire.

There is no possible way for a mating between the dam and Sire 2 to result in a calf that is a carrier of the A allele.

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Feature Article Reading Genetic Test Results

Recently, genetic testing for beef cattle has evolved to include “high-throughput” testing. This is a tremendous advantage for the producer because most economically important traits like calving ease, dry matter intake, feed efficiency, hot carcass weight, marbling score and tenderness, are controlled polygenically or by many genes, as opposed to a single gene like color or horned status. This means that many modern tests can make predictions about the performance and genetic value of an animal earlier in life than traditional EPDs. When attempting to interpret the results of high-throughput or high-density genetic tests it is important to understand the difference between the traditional EPD and a breeding value because test results are often expressed as breeding values.

Breeding values may be molecular or phenotypically-based and are equal to twice the EPD. This is because breeding values represent the genetic potential of the tested animal; whereas, an EPD represents the genetic potential of an animal as a parent. As a parent, an animal only contributes half of its genetic material to the offspring; thus, an expected PROGENY difference is equal to half of the breeding value. Results or breeding values will be presented in units relevant to the trait in question (e.g. gain will be in pounds).

It is important to understand that even high-throughput tests only measure a portion of the genes that control a specific trait. Let’s say a producer has genetic test results that indicate a sire may be superior for a certain trait, compared to a second sire, and the available EPDs contradict this, the EPD is more dependable. This is because the EPD is related to performance, which is a product of all of the genes that affect the trait; whereas, the genetic test results are only accounting for the portion of the genes analyzed by the test. Much like EPDs, genetic testing results or breeding values will have accuracies associated with them. Although they look alike, raw test results and EPDs are not calculated the same way and cannot be compared directly.

DNA sample collection can be accomplished by collecting tail hair from the switch or by a blood sample.

Contact IBBA today to learn more about DNA sample collection options.

Genetic Tests, EPDs and GE-EPDs

Okay, so contrary to what you may be thinking, the conclusion of the previous section is NOT that genomic tests are less valuable than EPDs. The two are not the same thing and thus cannot be compared; yet, given the miracle of mathematics the results of genetic testing can be used to strengthen EPDs. The big gamble with using EPDs, as gospel is the accuracy of the prediction in young cattle that have few if any progeny. The lack of confidence associated with EPDs on young cattle comes from simply not knowing which alleles an animal inherited from its parents. In young bulls, for example, most of their genetic value is based on their pedigree. As these animals age and have offspring, we know more and more about which alleles were passed to the sire in question. This increased confidence is denoted by an increase in the accuracy value (0 – 1 scale) associated with each EPD. Samples of DNA can be collected very early in life, and unlike metabolism or hormones, the genetic code does not change over the course of an animal’s life. Genomic testing allows producers to take a virtual snapshot of a portion of the genes that regulate economically important traits. This increased knowledge of the genes possessed by an animal allows for increased confidence in the EPD. These numbers are called genomically-enhanced EPDs (GE-EPDs). The most comprehensive of these technologies are specific to the Angus breed due to larger number of individuals tested. Other breeds have developed GE-EPDs. These breeds include Brangus, Hereford, Simmental, Red Angus, Gelbvieh, and Limousin, although these breeds may use different mathematical techniques for incorporating genomic data into EPDs. Using genetic testing in beef cattle operations allows early prediction of genetic merit and increases the value of young breeding stock. Some of the traits, which are assessed, are expensive to measure in the live animal (e.g. reproductive traits, feed efficiency, or tenderness). Cost of using this technology is decreasing as time passes, but it is important for producers to analyze the economics before employing this tool to ensure that it is economically justifiable.

For more information on genetic testing, contact your local extension agent or dial 1(800)ASK-UGA-1. BJ ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Dr. Jacob Segers was raised near Jasper, Ga., where his family ran a small commercial operation. He attended the University of Georgia where he received his B.S. in Agriculture in 2008 and a M.S. in Animal Science in 2010. Upon graduation, Jacob relocated to the University of Illinois where he received a Ph.D. in Animal Science with a specialty in Ruminant Nutritional Physiology.

Dr. Segers is now an Assistant Professor of Animal Science at the University of Georgia. He is also a State Extension Specialist in Beef Cattle Nutrition and Management, and coordinator of the Tifton Bull Evaluation Program and Heifer Evaluation and Reproductive Development Program. Dr. Segers’ extension programs are focused on the beef cattle nutrition, production and management from the cattlemen’s pasture to the consumer’s plate. He believes that great extension programs are built around the needs of the people they serve. Those needs change from year to year, so Dr. Segers’ lab strives to stay abreast of the most current topics, information, and concerns relative to the beef industry. Dr. Segers’ research efforts are focused primarily on supplemental feeding strategies in cows and stockers, as well as the impact of nutrition on an animal’s ability to optimize its genetic potential.

Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 39

Membership Welcome New Members DEAN FUCHS :: BURTON, TX

5C FARM :: CRAGFORD, AL

BRAD BERGERON :: RACELAND, LA

CHRISTOPHER G HEPTINSTALL :: FAIRMOUNT, GA

PETER SAMPEY :: RACELAND, LA

FRED WATKINS :: WINTERS, TX

JERRY HERRING :: MADISON, FL

BARRY L BOZEMAN :: ROANOKE, AL

KEENAN LAND & CATTLE :: CARTHAGE, MO

CORUMBENE BRANGUS, GEORDIE ELLIOTT :: BYADOK, VICTORIA

CANA LAND & FARM COMPANY, JAMES “SEAN”MCCASHIN :: MOCKSVILLE, NC

DALTON NIX :: TOLAR, TX

SWEET CANAAN LAND, ROY LIVINGSTON ROLLE, JR :: OCALA, FL

MILTON PEREZ :: MISSION, TX

Committee Seeks Nominations for Award Recipients

T

he International Brangus Breeders (IBBA) Awards Committee is taking nominations for deserving recipients of the three awards given annually by the IBBA- Breeder of the Year, Commercial Producer of the Year, and Pioneer of the Year.

The Pioneer of the Year award recognizes an IBBA member, past or present, for his/her service, loyalty and recognizable contributions to the Brangus breed. Breeder of the Year recipient is a current member of the IBBA deserving of recognition for his/ her successes and advancements made utilizing and promoting Brangus purebred cattle. The Commercial Producer of the Year award highlights a commercial producer’s achievements

incorporating Brangus genetics into their breeding program.

These awards are meant to showcase the achievements and contributions these breeders have made to the Brangus breed and the beef cattle industry.

If someone you know is a deserving candidate of one of these prestigious awards, submit your nomination by Thursday, December 31, to Robert Field, chairman of the IBBA Awards Committee, by email at calyxstar@aol.com or by phone at 662435-4885. You may also contact an IBBA Director. Visit IBBA’s website at gobrangus.com/ibba-board-directors/ for contact information. BJ

2016 Dates Needed for TBBA Calendar and GoBrangus.com

I

t is already time to think about the New Year. Brangus Publications will be working on the TBBA Calendar that will mail with the December 2015 issue of the Brangus Journal.

No dates will be repeated from previous years without receiving confirmation from owners, sale managers, or event coordinators.

Please make sure to follow these instructions to get your 2016 sale, show or other event listed on the Calendar, on GoBrangus. com and in upcoming issues of the Brangus Journal.

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You MUST submit the following information: • Sale Name • Sale Date(s) • Sale Location All information MUST be emailed to Tyler Dean - tyler@intbrangus.org or Jessica Johnston - jjohnston@gobrangus.com.

All information MUST be received by NOVEMBER 10, 2015 to be included on the TBBA Calendar. BJ

Membership National Cattle Evaluation

T

he IBBA highly recommends that you submit your DNA samples as soon as possible. DNA submitted in a timely fashion will be included in the next Genomic Analysis. All data (including results from

DNA testing) for the next Brangus National Cattle Evaluation needs to be in the herdbook by 5 p.m., Monday, November 9, 2015. BJ

Advertising Deadline

T

he deadline to reserve your advertising space in the December 2015 issue of the Brangus Journal is November 9, 2015. The issue will include the 2015 Year End Review and be an issue you do not want to

miss out on. Contact Melanie Fuller or Kyle Dykes about these and other advertising opportunities. BJ

Advertising and Marketing Opportunities

T

he IBBA offers a variety of online advertising opportunities. Do you want to reach your customers directly? E-mail blasts work great for upcoming sales or any ad that runs in the Brangus Journal. E-mail blasts can be directly linked to your website or sale catalog.

E-mail blasts are $200 each and sent out biweekly.

W

ith over 1,500 active members, the IBBA provides innovative programs and services, which enhance the economic well-being of members and commercial customers.

Card ads are also being offered in the biweekly Brangus News.

These ads can be a great tool for advertising your operation and any upcoming sales. Card ads can be directly linked to your website or sale catalog. The ads are $100 per week. BJ

Member Benefits Members are eligible to participate in a variety of livestock shows, industry conferences, association activities, and educational meetings.

Membership includes: The ability to register cattle with the IBBA Online portal access to your herd Subscriptions to both the Brangus Journal and the Frontline Beef Producer Voting rights for the association business 10% Discount at La Quinta Hotels Biweekly Brangus News Chute Side App Access to Genomically Enhanced EPDs BJ Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 41

Membership Proper DNA Sampling and Shipping Leads to Fewer Failed Samples

by Tommy PERKINS, Ph.D., PAS IBBA Executive Vice President

D

NA samples have been submitted at a very high rate since releasing the first Brangus genomic enhanced expected progeny differences (GEEPDs). More DNA sample submissions have come with more problems due to improper sample techniques.

Many of you have submitted DNA samples and then received an email stating that the sample failed to yield enough DNA to produce any results. Although some of the failed results can be attributed to the lab and/or lab procedures, most often it goes back to a situation with the breeder in collecting the sample or handling the sample after it was collected for testing. Therefore, I will discuss some of the common issues leading up to a failed result. Failed samples generally fall into three categories: contamination, insufficient sample size or improper shipping.

Contamination

The most common error occurs with cross contamination between samples from different animals. This often results in placing a freshly collected sample on top of or near another sample. Blood, feces, urine, perspiration, mud, and other fluids create most contamination in this situation. It is best to place all collected samples individually on a table (out of the wind and direct sunlight) until they are completely dry before letting them come in contact with another sample. Do not use hair dryers or others aids in drying the sample as they too can cause damage to the DNA in the sample. Normal air drying is the best option.

Pour-on medications (fly control, dewormers, etc.), ink from eartag markers, tattoo ink, cleaning agents (windex, bleach, etc.) and other contaminants can lead to failed test results. Cowboys/cowgirls at chute side don’t always have the opportunity to clean their hands between jobs. However, it is a must for the technician collecting the sample to have an alcohol based cleaning towel(s) available to remove blood, feces, urine, etc. from their hands between all sample collections. The alcohol based agent allows for quick air dry so there is minimal slow-down in the process.

Exposure to direct sunlight will also damage the collected sample. Therefore, don’t throw the newly collected samples on the dash of the truck for drying or storage. It is also important not to store the samples in 42 | November 2015

Brangus Journal

a plastic bags. Plastic bags lead to moisture build up that causes contamination if multiple samples are placed in the same bag.

Placing individual samples in a plastic bag is not recommended as well. This may lead to dilution of the collected blood sample via “bag sweating” or may lead to mold growth inside the bag over time which causes unwanted contamination.

Manure and urine can also create problems in collecting DNA samples. These contaminants create more problems with hair sample submission so it is best to pull hair samples from a clean, dry switch of an animal. Both manure and urine can present problems in making root bulb punches in the lab when the technician is loading the sample for testing.

Insufficient Sample Size

There is a fine line between too little and too much blood collected at sampling. Insufficient blood spotted on a card is the biggest problem leading to a failed test result. However, some soak the blood card with too much blood that leads to slow drying times and ultimate contamination issues. Make sure that you include 4-5 drops of blood in the circle on the blood card for the best sample.

Some breeders collect blood in a tube for later spotting on the blood card in a clean office environment. This is perfectly fine but make sure that you invert (shake) the tubes 4-5 times before spotting the blood card as the stored tube samples typically settle or separate over time. Again 4-5 drops of shaken blood placed

Membership in the circle of the blood card is best. Handling and storage of the blood tubes are important as well. Store the samples at room temperature or in a refrigerator (do not freeze) prior to spotting the blood card.

Collection of enough root bulbs in a sample is the biggest issue with hair samples. Ensure that you collect a minimum of 30-40 good hair follicles (with noticeable root bulbs) for each sample. It can be difficult to accomplish this in younger animals (particularly newborns). In general, the older the animal the larger the root bulb. Blood is probably a better sampling method for animals less than 6 months old.

Improper Shipping

Semen tends to have the biggest problem with improper shipping. Broken semen straws leak onto the container and do not allow collection of DNA for testing. Therefore, the non-frozen semen sample must be shipped in a non-crushable container. This can be as simple as removing the cartridge from an ink pen and placing the semen straw in the body of the ink pen (tape both ends of the ink pen body as well after placement of the straw of semen). Any other type of non-crushable tube

container will do the job. It is also important to note that the semen sample should be stored at room temperature or in a refrigerator (does not have to be kept frozen) prior to shipping.

Do not place blood and/or hair samples in a plastic bag for shipping. Certainly don’t place a group of samples in a large zip lock bag for shipping. Remember this leads to issues with moisture build up and/or mold growth.

Other Problems

Pulling blood with too small of a needle or too quickly can also lead to problems. Those well versed in blood procurement can pull the blood through the needle so rapidly that lysing of cells may occur. This ultimately impairs the sample quality so it is generally recommended to use an 18 gauge or larger needle to prevent some of the lysing issues.

The genomic companies report that 3-4 percent of DNA samples fail testing and are reported as NR (no result). Please plan ahead and submit samples at least 10 weeks prior to needing the results. This allows you the time needed to pull additional samples of “failed test results” for retesting if needed. BJ

International Brangus Breeders Foundation Celebrates Anniversary

T

he International Brangus Breeders Association by administering your gift or donation today! The founders of would like to extend a huge thank you to all of those this corporation intend to return your investment by advancing that have been actively involved in the success of the Brangus breed where it is needed to ultimately instill the the International Brangus Breeders Foundation. highest value for Brangus cattle and genetics raised by the We have successfully reached a full year with the International members of this great association.

Contact the office for more information on submitting Brangus Breeders Foundation!

This foundation is a not-for-profit corporation that utilizes gifts your gift or donation, and help progress your breed today! BJ and donations to conduct research, investigations, and experiments in the breeding of Brangus cattle, to best promote the participation Yes, I want to support Brangus advancement with a tax of Brangus cattle exhibitions and deductable gi to the International Brangus Breeders propel Brangus to the forefront of Foundation! the cattle industry.

The objective of this foundation is to fund research in the livestock industry that is meant Name:______________________________Date:__________________ to benefit Brangus breeders and Address:______________________City:____________State, Zip:_____ other beef producers today and in future generations. Funding Email:_________________________Phone:______________________ for educational programs in I want to support: ___Youth ___Education ___Research the beef cattle industry to shed ___Administration ___Highest Need light on the great opportunities and advancements that Brangus Please make checks payable to: International Brangus Breeders Foundation genetics have to offer.

You can be involved in the Mail to: 5750 Epsilon, San Antonio, TX 78249 success of this great organization Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 43

Show Results Western National Brangus Show Champions Named

by Tyler DEAN IBBA director of shows & youth Programs

B

rangus exhibitors from Florida, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas paraded 81 Brangus entries at the 2015 Western National Brangus Show Saturday, September 26. The show occurred in conjunction with the State Fair of Oklahoma in Oklahoma City, Okla. A total of 36 Brangus females, 13 Red Brangus females, two Brangus pairs, 20 Brangus bulls and 10 Red Brangus bulls were exhibited. Judge Cary Crow, evaluated the entries. Crow was raised on a commercial cow/calf operation located in the flint hills of North East Kansas. He is a graduate from Kansas State University in Animal Science and was a member of the 1996 National Champion Livestock Judging team. Crow has spent 10 years in the reproductive industry and is currently employed by Trans Ova Genetics as their national beef sales director.

Coming from the Senior Heifer Division, DDD Ms Penelope 804A53 took home the Grand Champion Female title. The October 2013 female is a daughter of Doguet’s Hercules 88S3 and is owned and exhibited by Garrett Chaney of Windom, Texas. Reserve

Champion Female title went to KK Jillian 820B2 exhibited by Katy Knox Wunderlich of Hempstead, Texas. The February 2014 female came from the Junior Heifer Division and is a daughter of Skyhawks Presidente. H4 Ms. Rosie Rojo 170B claimed Grand Champion Red Female. Owned and exhibited by Demi Hunt of Gladewater, Texas, Rosie is a September 2014 daughter of Dos XX’s Chief ’s Mr Stretch and initially won the Red Senior Heifer Calf Division. Coming from the Red Junior Heifer Division, CX Ms Pay MH Courtney 424/B took Reserve Grand Champion honors.

The February 2014 female is a daughter of CX Payload’s Meathouse 930/U and was exhibited by Cox Excalibur Brangus of Katy, Texas.

In the cow-calf show, Grand Champion honors went to Ms Odyssey 767A and her May 2015 heifer calf Miss KDW Dax 767C. Owned and exhibited by Kalyn Watt of Tatum, Texas, 767A is a March 2013 daughter of Odyssey of Chester 915R. Andreya Mitchell of Seminole, Okla., took Reserve Champion honors with JG Miss 747 Exacto 511A and her July 2015 bull calf 3R Smoke on the Water. 511A is a May 2013 daughter of JG Mr 747 Black Jet.

Grand Champion & Champion Senior Heifer

Reserve Grand & Champion Junior Heifer

Grand Champion & Champion Red Senior Heifer Calf

Reserve Grand & Champion Red Junior Heifer

DDD MS PENELOPE 804A53 GARRETT R CHANEY, WINDOM, TX

H4 MS. ROSIE ROJO 170B DEMI HUNT, GLADEWATER, TX

44 | November 2015

Brangus Journal

KK MISS JILLIAN 820B2 KATY KNOX WUNDERLICH, HEMPSTEAD, TX

CX MS PAY MH COURTNEY 424/B COX EXCALIBUR BRANGUS, KATY, TX

Show Results Emerging from the Junior Bull division, Mr JLS Ice T 915B29 rose to the top to claim Grand Champion Bull. The March 2014 bull is a son of Skyhawks Presidente and was exhibited by JLS International of Hondo, Texas. CS Train of Thought 2056UA took Reserve Champion honors. Owned and exhibited by Deep Down Ranch in Jennings, La., Train of Thought is a May 2013 son of SBR Coal Train 222WR and first won the Intermediate Senior Bull Division. Cox Excalibur Brangus of Katy, Texas, claimed the Grand Champion Red Bull honor with CX Dream’s Hombre 31/A. Dream’s Hombre is a June 2013 son of CX Legend’s Dream 610/U1

Champion Cow/Calf

and first won the Red Intermediate Senior Bull Division. Dos XX’s Super Magnum first won the Red Junior Bull division and took home Reserve Grand Red Bull honors for exhibitor McDonald Ranches of Bryan, Texas, and Dos XX’s Cattle Company of Washington, Texas. Super Magnum is an April 2014 son of BKC Legacy’s Superman 101U. Dos XX’s Cattle Company was the only ranch to participate in the Group Classes and showed progeny of Miss Clark Cattle 821, IBBA’s 2014-2015 Red Brangus Show Dam of the Year, to win the Produce of Dam class. BJ

Reserve Cow/Calf

MS ODYSSEY 767A KALYN WATT, TATUM, TX

JG MISS 747 EXACTO 511A ANDREYA L MITCHELL, SEMINOLE, OK

Grand Champion & Champion Junior Bull

Reserve Grand & Champion Intermediate Senior Bull

Grand Champion & Champion Red Intermediate Senior Bull

Reserve Grand & Champion Red Junior Bull

MR JLS ICE T 915B29 JLS INTERNATIONAL INC, HONDO, TX

CX DREAM’S HOMBRE 31/A COX EXCALIBUR BRANGUS, KATY, TX

CS TRAIN OF THOUGHT 2056UA DEEP DOWN RANCH, JENNINGS, LA

DOS XX’S SUPER MAGNUM DARRYL MCDONALD, BRYAN, TX & DOS XX’S CATTLE CO, WASHINGTON, TX

Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 45

Show Results

Champion Junior Heifer Calf

JG MISS ONSTAR OPTION GORCZYCA & SON BRANGUS, HARRAH, OK

Reserve Junior Heifer Calf

MC NIGHT STAR 95C TRACI MIDDLETON, PURYEAR, TN

Champion Red Junior Heifer Calf

Champion Senior Heifer Calf

Reserve Senior Heifer Calf

Champion Summer Heifer

DDD UNFORGETTABLE 150B12 DOGUET DIAMOND D RANCH, POTEET, TX

MISS JLS CLAIRE 915B65 JLS INTERNATIONAL INC, HONDO, TX

Reserve Summer Heifer

Champion Red Summer Heifer

Reserve Senior Heifer

Champion Junior Bull Calf

JOJ MS PRESIDENTE 820B SKYHAWK BRANGUS, TYLER, TX

DDD SILVER LINING 804A63 DOGUET DIAMOND D RANCH, POTEET, TX

46 | November 2015

Brangus Journal

CX MS LEGENDS DREAM 59/B4 LAUREN SAVOIE, JENNINGS, LA

JG MR. 804 SLEEP ALL NITE GORCZYCA & SON BRANGUS, HARRAH, OK

CX MS CHIEF’S APACHE 314/C MARCELA GARZA, SPRING, TX

CCC MS SAMANTHA 99B RYON MORGAN CHANEY, WINDOM, TX

Reserve Junior Heifer

MS 2H/GBB HAYLEY 915B4 TUCKER GAMBLE, JOAQUIN, TX

Reserve Junior Bull Calf

CCC MR GUNSMOKE 915C RYON MORGAN CHANEY, WINDOM, TX

Show Results

Champion Red Junior Bull Calf

Champion Senior Bull Calf

Reserve Senior Bull Calf

CX CHIEFS APACHE 010/C COX EXCALIBUR BRANGUS, KATY, TX

DDD SLEDGE 103B12 DOGUET DIAMOND D RANCH, POTEET, TX

SKYHAWKS TEDDY 915B6 SKYHAWK BRANGUS, TYLER, TX

Champion Red Senior Bull Calf

Reserve Red Senior Bull Calf

Champion Red Summer Bull

MR JLS KING 23B6 JLS INTERNATIONAL INC, HONDO, TX

MR JLS RED MAN 23B4 JLS INTERNATIONAL INC, HONDO, TX

CX MR LEGENDS DREAM 3/B1 COX EXCALIBUR BRANGUS, KATY, TX

NOT PICTURED Reserve Red Junior Heifer Calf

GGCCLEGENDS DREAM HOMERUN11 JACOB ALLEN JONES, STILLWATER, OK

Reserve Red Senior Heifer Calf GYPSY ROSALIE 15B BKC RANCH, LLC, MAGNOLIA, TX

Reserve Red Summer Heifer

CX MS HOME RUN’S BROOKE 36/B COX EXCALIBUR BRANGUS, KATY, TX Champion Senior Bull QMC MR GRIT OF LAMBERT 192Z CASEY DELONA HARPER, HAINES CITY, FL

Reserve Senior Bull 3R NITE TRAIN ANDREYA L MITCHELL, SEMINOLE, OK

Reserve Red Junior Heifer

MISS MCR 821B DARRYL MCDONALD, BRYAN, TX & DOS XX’S CATTLE CO, WASHINGTON, TX

Reserve Junior Bull

IH MR.REID 504B TRIO CATTLE & GENETICS, DALLAS, TX

Reserve Red Junior Bull

CX APACHES DREAM 71/B COX EXCALIBUR BRANGUS, KATY, TX

Champion Red Senior Bull

TX CHIEF ADVANTAGE 76/A TANECKA RANCH, COLUMBUS, TX

Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 47

Show Results Champions Named at Oklahoma State Fair Junior Show

by Tyler DEAN IBBA director of shows & youth Programs

W

hile Brangus exhibitors converged in Oklahoma City on Saturday, September 26, 2015, for the Western National Brangus Show, 21 hardworking junior exhibitors participated in the Oklahoma State Fairâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Junior Brangus Show. The junior show was open to all IJBBA members regardless of their home state. Twenty-five Brangus and Red Brangus females were presented in a combined show to Judge Joel Judge of San Luis Obispo, Calif.

Grand Champion Female honors went to DDD Ms Penelope 804A53, an October 2013 female exhibited by Garrett Chaney of Windom, Texas. Ryon Chaney, also of Windom, Texas, showed her August 2014 female, CCC Ms Samantha 99B to take home Reserve Grand Champion honors.

Running concurrently with the junior show was the Oklahoma Junior Show. Ten juniors from Oklahoma accounted for 13 Brangus and Red Brangus females. Rising to the top and claiming the title of Grand Champion Oklahoma Female was Jakes Miss Flojo. The November 2013 female was exhibited by Jacob Jones of Stillwater, Okla. Levi Henderson of Alex, Okla., showed his January 2015 female Miss Pinnacle 894C to claim the title of Reserve Grand Champion Oklahoma Female.

Jacob Jones of Stillwater, Okla., Champion Oklahoma Female, Jakes Miss Flojo, also taking top honors in the Oklahoma Bred and Owned show. Brook Langford ok Lawton, Okla., took home Reserve Champion Oklahoma Bred and Owned honors with Ms BL 747 Becky 609B. BJ

Grand Champion Heifer

DDD MS PENELOPE 804A53 GARRETT R CHANEY, WINDOM, TX

Reserve Grand Heifer

CCC MS SAMANTHA 99B RYON MORGAN CHANEY, WINDOM, TX

Champion Oklahoma Heifer & Champion Oklahoma Bred & Owned JAKES MISS FLOJO JACOB JONES, STILLWATER, OK

48 | November 2015

Brangus Journal

Show Results

Reserve Champion Oklahoma Heifer MISS PINNACLE 894C LEVI HENDERSON, ALEX, OK

Reserve Oklahoma Bred & Owned MS BL 747 BECKY 609B BROOK LANGFORD, LAWTON, OK

West Texas Fair and Rodeo Junior Brangus Show Results

F

ive Texas Junior Brangus exhibitors brought nine head of Brangus females to Abilene, Texas, on Saturday, September 12, 2015, for the West Texas Fair and Rodeo Junior Brangus Show. Dwight Sexton evaluated the entries. Rising to the top to claim Grand Champion Heifer honors after winning the Senior Heifer Division was DDD Ms Penelope 804A53 exhibited by Garrett Chaney of Windom, Texas. The Reserve Grand Champion Heifer CCC Ms Samantha 99B first won the Summer Heifer Division and was exhibited by Ryon Chaney of Windom, Texas. Ryon Chaney also exhibited the Third Best Heifer, DDD Special Effects 246B who was also the Champion Junior Heifer.

Grand Champion Heifer

DDD MS PENELOPE 804A53 GARRETT R CHANEY, WINDOM, TX

Other Champions included: Senior Heifer Calf Champion – VRXP Ms Seaglass exhibited by Victoria Parkey of Archer City, Texas; Reserve Senior Heifer Calf Champion – VRXP Ms Goldnugget exhibited by Victoria Parkey of Archer City, Texas; Reserve Summer Heifer Champion – Two Hearts Sonnet 820B6 exhibited by Meagan Cline of Lampasas, Texas; Reserve Junior Heifer Champion – JCC Ms Hope 38B3 exhibited by Cody Gonzales of Teague, Texas; and Reserve Senior Heifer Champion – JCC Ms Hercules 1252A4 exhibited by Cody Gonzales of Teague, Texas. Showmanship Champions were Garrett Chaney in the 13 and under age division and Ryon Chaney in the 14 and older division. BJ

Reserve Grand Heifer

CCC MS SAMANTHA 99B RYON MORGAN CHANEY, WINDOM, TX

Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 49

50 | November 2015

Brangus Journal

Service Directory Lakin Oakley Auctioneer 7081 Highway 82 West DeKalb, Texas 75559 903/667-3251 Home 903/277-9610 Mobile

Media Guide

Brangus Journal

Premium Ad Spots Placement

1 time*

8 times (one year)

Inside Front Cover

$1,160

$1,000

Page 1 (Inside right)

$1,160

$1,000

Inside Back Cover

$1,160

$1,000

Back Cover

$1,400

$1,200

Black & White Rates (per placement) Commercial Ad Rates

IBBA Member Ad Rates

Ad Size

1 time*

8 times

Full Page

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1/2 Page Island

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-

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$350 (total)

State Directory (B&W only)

Color rates: Add the following amount to the prices above: Single color- $170; Full color- $340

To place your ad in the SERVICE Directory,contact: Melanie at 979.255.3343 or Kyle at 254.371.9388

*Receive discounts when you agree to eight consecutive ad placements (one year)

Editorial Calendar Issue January Mails Dec. 24 March Mails Feb. 19 April Mails March 26 May Mails April 27 August Mails Aug. 4 October Mails Sep. 25 November Mails Oct. 27 December Mails Nov. 25

Feature

Space Reserved By

Ad Copy Due

IBBA Annual Meeting Preview/NCBA

December 10

December 15

International

February 2

February 9

TBA

March 10

March 16

Reproduction

April 10

April 15

Juniors

July 10

July 15

Marketing & Promotion

September 10

September 15

Technology

October 9

October 15

Year in Review

November 10

November 15

5750 EPSILON | SAN ANTONIO, TX 78249 | 210-696-8231 | www.GoBrangus.com

Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 51

State Directory 1

2

13465 Brooklyn Rd. Evergreen, AL 36401

3

Alabama

4

Sean Parker, President

1

3

4

1

2

Arizona

2

3

To place your ad in the State Directory,contact: Melanie at 979.255.3343 or Kyle at 254.371.9388

2

California Arkansas

1

3

1 2

2 BRANGUS John and Sherry Milam 753 Hinson Road El Dorado, AR 71730 Grady Green, Registered Cowherd Manager 870-314-3673, grady@dragginmranch.com Danny Roberson, Commercial Cowherd Manager 870-310-8134 www.dragginmranch.com

1

Bill Davis • OWNER • (336) 210-1222 Ed Slisher • maNagER • (870) 612-4117 GinaJackson Mynatt • OfficE maNagER • (870) 668-3414 Kelsey www.chimneyrockcattle.com

1

Brangus • angus • Ultrablacks

1

52 | November 2015

Your Source for Brangus, Angus and Ultrablack Genetics in the West.

Brangus Journal

THE DOIRON FAMILY Daniel & Pamela Doiron 805-245-0434 Cell doiron@spanishranch.net www.spanishranch.net

To place your ad in the State Directory,contact: Melanie at 979.255.3343 or Kyle at 254.371.9388

State Directory MO BRANGUS

1

2

mobrangus.com

THE LARGEST REGISTERED BRANGUS BREEDER IN AMERICA

www.wynneranch.com Matthew Lyle Wynne Cell: (772) 201-7500 Ft. Pierce, Florida matthew@wynneranch.net

Mo Williams, Owner (407)869-5866 :: Sorrento, Florida

4 6 3

4

1 5 2 wetfarm1@windstream.net 5

Lakeside Brangus

Florida

3

6

Pat Roth

Cell:727-226-5712 Office:813-986-0731

Pat@lakesidebrangus.com 1

2 For the best in

Registered and Commercial Brangus Mike Coggins • 229-­232-­3096 • mike@bwcattle.com Tracy Holbert • 979-­255-­4357 • ctlbroker@suddenlink.net

www.blackwatercattlecompany.com Ranch is located just off I-­75 at the Georgia-­Florida line.

4

Joe & Catherine Kassler, Owners

41

3

5

4810 Smokey Road Newnan, GA 30263 770-251-6522 Home 770-502-1510 Fax www.theoaksfarm.com www.theoaksfarm.com Vince Roberts, CellCell Cobus Coetzee,Farm FarmManager Manager678-378-4697 - 678-378-0598 Scott Barkley,Asst.

Herdsman 678-378-0598 Cell Dex King-Williams, Farm Manager - 678-378-4697 Cell

5

Georgia

3

6

2

6

Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 53

State Directory

Vernon & Vicki Suhn

Vernon & Vicki Suhn

1647 200th St - Eureka, KS 67045 (620) 583-5923 - (620) 583-3706 M suhn@wildblue.net www.suhncattlecompany.com

1647 200th St - Eureka, KS 67045 (620) 583-3706 - (620) 583-4240 suhn@wildblue.net www.suhncattlecompany.com

Kansas

1

Vernon & Vicki Suhn vern@genetrustbrangus.com • (620) 583-3706 1647 200th St • Eureka, KS 67045 www.genetrustbrangus.com

1

Louisiana

1

2

1,2

Tony & Lolita Westbrooks 683 Hwy 459 Olla, La 71465 Office: 318-992-5948 Cell: 318-481-8142

1

2

David Wood Magnolia, MS 713-539-5715

Mississippi New Mexico Missouri

To place your ad in the State Directory,contact: Melanie at 979.255.3343 or Kyle at 254.371.9388

dwood@woodcorporation.com

HOME OF SINGLETARY, 30T AND FOUNDATION.

3 3

1

To place your ad in the State Directory,contact: Melanie at 979.255.3343 or Kyle at 254.371.9388

2

1

54 | November 2015

1

2

1

2

2

2 1

Lack-Morrison Brangus Bulls, Females, Semen and Embryos Bill Morrison 411 CR 10 Clovis, NM 88101 (575) 482-3254 (575) 760-7263 Cell bvmorrison@yucca.net

Joe Paul & Rosie Lack P.O. Box 274 Hatch, NM 87937 P (575) 267-1016 F (575) 267-1234

www.lackmorrisonbrangus.com

Brangus Journal

State Directory North Carolina

1

To place your ad in the State Directory,contact: Melanie at 979.255.3343 or Kyle at 254.371.9388

2

3

4

5

3 4

1 2

Oklahoma

1

1

5

LAWMAN RANCH

To place your ad in the State Directory,contact: Melanie at 979.255.3343 or Kyle at 254.371.9388

— Shiloh Hall — Okmulgee, OK • 918-798-1337 www.lawmanbrangusranch.com • Shiloh518@yahoo.com

Tennessee

1

To place your ad in the State Directory,contact: Melanie at 979.255.3343 or Kyle at 254.371.9388

1

To place your ad in the State Directory, contact Melanie at 979.255.3343 or Kyle at 254.371.9388 Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 55

State Directory 1

DILLARD LAND & CATTLE

Joe & Elise Dillard 4206 Leaflock Lane · Katy, TX 77450 Ranch: 2013 N. FM 609 · Muldoon, TX 78949 (713) 201-3305 - Mobile · (281) 395-3343 - Home Gary D. Prause · Consultant · (979) 830-7819

13 9

21

Texas

11

17

6

12

2

15

23 2

10

Where winning tradition and performance collide

7

9

Brangus bulls and heifers available year-round at private treaty.

3 20 16 4 19 1,8, 22 14 18

JLS International, Inc.

5

www.jlsbrangus.com Jeff Smith, Owner Myron Saathoff myronsaathoff@yahoo.com

3

251-947-5688 210-218-4804

Circle C Land & Cattle Co., Ltd.

Steve Densmore Cattle Manager (979) 776-5760, Office (979) 450-0819, Cell s.densmore@bre.com

4

7

Mound Creek Ranch

5

6

8

9

11

12

Eddie & Cindy Blazek Leona, Texas featuring

The Stockman’s Kind Registered Brangus Bulls & Females Contact for more information: Eddie Blazek (713) 829-9908 moundcreekranch@cs.com Tracy Holbert (979) 255-4357 ctlbroker@suddenlink.net Tim Sparkman (214) 460-0498

www.moundcreekranch.com 10

Beaumont Ranch (409) 866-2297

McCoy & Poteet Ranches Records (210) 269-3220 Eric Otto (210) 834-0034

Timmy Lucherk, Genetics Manager  (210) 834-1247

56 | November 2015

Brangus Journal

1415 E. OSR Bryan, TX 77808 www.circlexbrangus.com

State Directory 13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

Randy Schmidt â&#x20AC;˘ 903-278-7777 91 CR 2308 â&#x20AC;˘ Texarkana, TX 75503

To place your ad in the State Directory,contact: Melanie at 979.255.3343 or Kyle at 254.371.9388

To place your ad in the State Directory, contact Melanie at 979.255.3343 or Kyle at 254.371.9388

Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 57

Upcoming Events 6-7

November 2015

GeneTrust at Chimney Rock Sale :: Concord, AR

5

January 2016

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Entry Deadline

9

The Branch Ranch Bull & Female Sale :: Mansfield, LA

8

Space Deadline for Fall Frontline Beef Producer

9

National Cattle Evaluation Date Deadline

18

Fort Worth Brangus Show :: Fort Worth, TX

10

2016 Dates for TBBA Calendar Deadline

10

Space Deadline for December Brangus Journal

14

Hill Country Brangus Breeders Sale :: San Angelo, TX

14

Blackwater Cattle Company Sale :: Lake Park, GA

20

Yon Family Farms Bull and Female Sale :: Ridge Spring, SC

14

Oklahoma Brangus Breeders Sale :: McAlester, OK

27

15

Fort Worth Brangus Show Entry Deadline

Spitzer Ranch and Hunts H+ Brangus Professional Cattlemenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bull Sale :: Fair Play, SC

20

Salacoa Valley Buy the Numbers Female Sale :: Fairmount, GA

21

Salacoa Valley Buy the Numbers Bull Sale :: Fairmount, GA

21

GeneTrust at Cavenderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Neches River Ranch Sale :: Jacksonville, TX

15

4

February 2016

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Late Entry Deadline

March 2016

International Brangus Bull Show :: Houston, TX

5

International Brangus Female Show :: Houston, TX

5

Genetic Edge Sale :: Houston, TX

December 2015

5

Alabama Brangus Breeders Bull Sale :: Uniontown, AL

10

Space Deadline for January Brangus Journal

31

IBBA Award Nominations Deadline

Sales and Events in bold are advertised in this issue.

To get your sale added for 2016, contact tyler or jessica today!

Information received by November 10 will be included in the TBBA Calendar!

For the most current listing of upcoming events visit

gobrangus.com/calendar 58 | November 2015

Brangus Journal

Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 59

Advertisers Index AmRich Ranch.........................................................................................55 Black X Ranch............................................................................................. 5 Blackwater Cattle Co.............................................................................53 Brinks Brangus @ Westall Ranches, LLC..................................... 1, 54 Burke Brangus Farm..............................................................................53 Bushley Creek Cattle Company.........................................................54 Caires Farms International.................................................................... 5 Calyx Star Ranch.....................................................................................54 Carter Brangus.........................................................................................52 Cavender Ranches..........................................................................29, 56 Char-No Farm...........................................................................................53 Chimney Rock Cattle Co......................................................................52 Circle X Land & Cattle Co............................................................ IFC, 56 Clover Ranch............................................................................................52 Cox Excalibur............................................................................................56 Cross N Farm............................................................................................54 Diamond K Ranch............................................................................27, 57 Dillard Land & Cattle Ltd......................................................................56 Doak Lambert..........................................................................................51 Doguet’s Diamond D Ranch....................................................... 56, BC Don Thomas & Sons...............................................................................54 Double Creek Brangus Ranch............................................................57 Double W Ranch.....................................................................................54 Draggin’ M Ranch...................................................................................52 E 3 Ranch...................................................................................................56 El Rancho Espanol de Cuyama..........................................................52 Elgin Breeding Service...................................................................31, 51 Farris Ranching Company...................................................................56 Garry Clem Brangus........................................................................13, 57 Genesis Ranch.........................................................................................56 GeneTrust...............................................................21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 29 Greuel Family Brangus..........................................................................53 Hardee Farms...........................................................................................53 Headwaters Land and Cattle..............................................................13 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo..............................................50 Indian Nations Fall Brangus Sale.......................................................59 JLS International.....................................................................................56 Johnston Farms Brangus.....................................................................52

60 | November 2015

Brangus Journal

K&R Broken Bar Ranch..........................................................................55 Lack-Morrison Brangus........................................................................54 Lake Majestik............................................................................................. 9 Lakeside Brangus....................................................................................53 Lakin Oakley.............................................................................................51 Lawman Ranch........................................................................................55 Little Creek Farms...................................................................................53 Miller Brangus..........................................................................................55 MO Brangus..............................................................................................53 Mound Creek Ranches..........................................................................56 Neogen GeneSeek.................................................................................33 Oklahoma Brangus Breeders..............................................................59 Parker Ranch............................................................................................52 Pennridge Ranch....................................................................................57 Perry Ranch...............................................................................................55 Quail Creek Brangus..............................................................................52 Red Bird Meadows Ranch....................................................................57 Robbs Brangus........................................................................................52 Robert Yates Ranch LLC........................................................................55 Roop Cattle Co.........................................................................................57 Salacoa Valley Farms....................................................................6, 7, 53 Santa Rosa Ranch.............................................................................. 3, 57 Schmidt Farms.........................................................................................57 Shooting Star Ranch..............................................................................57 Southeast Brangus Breeders..............................................................52 Suhn Cattle Company...........................................................................54 T3 Brangus................................................................................................54 The Oaks Farms................................................................................11, 53 TransOva Genetics.................................................................................15 Triple Crown Ranch................................................................................56 Triple JR Cattle Company.....................................................................57 Valley View Ranch...................................................................................54 Vineyard Cattle Co., Inc.........................................................................57 Vorel Farms...............................................................................................55 W.E.T. Farms..............................................................................................53 Wes Dotson..............................................................................................51 Wynne Ranch...........................................................................................53 Zottareli Ranches....................................................................................56

Brangus Journal

November 2015 | 61

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DDD Out Cross 804T30

CED BW WW YW M TM CEM SC REA IMF FT 0.9 3.8 37 59 6 24 3.3 0.37 .48 -.06 -.065

CED BW WW YW M TM CEM SC REA IMF FT 1.2 3.5 50 88 9 34 5.4 0.22 .38 -.04 -.038

DDD One Source 103A4 CED BW WW YW M TM CEM SC REA IMF FT 2.1 2.8 38 83 10 29 3.9 1.71 .92 .08 -.023

Mike & Lisa Doguet, Owners Mike Cell: (409) 790-0345  Mike Office: (409) 866-8873 Poteet/McCoy Locations - Eric Otto: (210) 834-0034 Beaumont Location - Ronny Kolander: (409) 790-5465 Genetics Consultant - Timmy Lucherk: (210) 834-1247 Ranch Records - Mary Douglass: (830) 569-5836 (office)  (210) 269-3220 (cell) 62 | November 2015 Brangus Journal www.doguetranch.com

DDD Stock Option 38Y CED BW WW YW M TM CEM SC REA IMF FT 4.4 1.3 34 55 5 22 3.2 -0.35 .56 -.06 -.061