Brangus October 2015
Journal
Marketing and Promotion Issue Brangus Journal
October 2015 | 1
Your SOURCE for Top Quality Registered & Commercial Brangus Cattle
Proud Members of
GO TEXAN
Circle Land & Cattle Co., Ltd. 2 | October 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
BRANGUS BREEDER OF THE YEAR presents...
Ms DMR Conversion 468B6
Selling a PICK of these Conversion daughters
Ms DMR Tribute 594C
Tribute out of the 594S7 donor
Ms DMR Conversion 468B4
Selling a PICK of these Conversion daughters
Ms DMR Tribute 302C
Tribute out of a Next Step daughter
JOIN US AT GENETRUST @ CHIMNEY ROCK NOVEMBER 6-7 John & Sherry Milam, Owners Grady Green, Manager, 870-314-3673, grady@dragginmranch.com El Dorado, Arkansas | www.dragginmranch.com
Brangus Journal
October 2015 | 1
Brangus
Journal
Features & Specials 21
IBBA Fall 2015 Sire Summary Genetic Trends
44
Bull Selection in a High Priced Bull Market
48
Selection for Feet and Leg Soundness in Brangus Cattle
Dr. Tommy Perkins brings forward a lot to think about as you look at making bull purchases this fall.
Structure remains a critical aspect in our industry. Dr. Mark Johnson discusses the new IBBA Feet and Leg Scoring System.
50
Value in Videos
44
Trait Leaders
In our fast paced world, videography has become a valuable tool. Chloe Geye discusses some strategies for your future marketing using video.
2 | October 2015
Brangus Journal
48 50
E.A. Collins
October 2015 Volume 63, Issue 5
BULL POWER
CALL FOR INFO ABOUT ALL OF OUR BULLS
Making the Breed Better. Please contact Santa Rosa Ranch about our Brangus and UltraBlack bulls and replacement females. We invite you to visit the ranch! 936.624.2333
www.aspenedgemarketing.com
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 Navasota and Crockett, Texas
www.srrbrangus.com
info@srrbrangus.com Brangus Journal
October 2015 | 3
Departments
8 8 8 10
Staff Connection Director Connection Regional Connection IBBA Connection
Incorporating Genomics in Your Management Program :: by Tommy Perkins, Ph.D., PAS Basics of Step by Step Marketing :: by Mike Vorel New Opportunities to Promote BRANGUS :: by Tyler Dean
30
IJBBA Connection
32 42 52
IBA Connection
59 60 66 68
Building with the BEST :: by Allyson Polston
Marketing Update
Capitalize on the Good Times :: by Kyles Dykes
Membership
Welcome New Members Memorials Established for Mr. Don Jobes and Marcos Borges III IBBA Committees Taking Nominations for Directors Florida Cattleman’s Association Awards 2015 Premier Animal Awards Town Creek Farm Puts on IBBA Fall Conference and SBBA Field Day Friends We Will Miss
Service Directory State Directory Calendar of Events
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_miller@int-brangus.org 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...
Advertisers Index
Special thanks to Cheramie Viator for sharing this unique image of a Brinks Brangus at Westall Ranches Brangus Female thriving in the harsh southwestern environment. 4 | October 2015
Brangus Journal
The Branch Ranch Average EPDs for Total Bull Sale Offering (51 Bulls) BW 0.46 1.1 38%
WW 27 24 37%
YW M 51 13 45 9 37% 17%
TM 26.5 21 22%
REA IMF .41 .025 .32 .01 35% 42%
Branch Ranch Average Brangus Breed Average The Branch Ranch’s Breed Percentile Ranking
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6 | October 2015
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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
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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
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
Ms Salacoa Atlanta 274C | Atlanta x Uppercut 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
CED 4.7
BW -0.9
WW 29
YW 62
M 19
TM 34
CEM 4.4
SC 0.34
WW 39
YW 70
M 8
TM 27
CEM 5
SC 0.66
REA 0.54
IMF FT 0.12 -0.042
CEM 3.4
SC 0.93
REA 0.59
IMF FT 0.11 -0.016
75B1 | Yosemite x New Era CED 2.8
BW 1.7
WW 29
YW 59
CED 8.1
IMF FT 0.02 -0.043
LM Miss New Vision 99B4 | New Vision 99P21
T3 Ms Atlanta 361B6 | Atlanta x Next Step BW 2.4
REA 0.69
BW -2
WW 28
YW 60
M 10
TM 24
CEM 3.6
SC 1.32
REA 0.66
IMF FT 0.05 -0.044
TM 29
CEM 5
SC 0.7
REA 0.45
IMF FT 0.12 -0.035
Georgia Peach
Georgia Peach
CED 1.5
Ms SVF Warrior 23W2 | R532 x 23S20
SVF Ms Cadence 535 W073 | Cadence x 535R40
M 9
TM 23
CED 5.2
BW -0.4
WW 20
YW 44
M 9
TM 19
CEM 3.7
30B8 | Atlanta x Unitas
SC 0.47
REA 0.7
IMF FT 0.08 -0.039
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
CEM 3.7
CED 1.6
BW 1.9
WW 35
YW 65
M 11
332B12 | New Vision x Aces TF Wrangler 145/8 CED 2.1
BW 2.1
WW 35
YW 75
M 13
TM 30
CEM 3.6
SC 0.63
REA 0.78
IMF FT 0.07 -0.025
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
October 2015 | 9
IBBA Connection Incorporating Genomics in Your Management Program
by Tommy PERKINS, Ph.D., PAS IBBA Executive Vice President
S
ummer is slowly coming to a close and relief from the heat is certainly a welcome sight in the San Antonio area. Although we were blessed with a wetter than usual spring and early summer, the rains did stay away through a large part of the summer. Fall and winter are forecast to have more rainfall, which will certainly offer some winter pasture planting options. We are thankful the cattle market continues to remain strong as the industry continues to see higher input costs around the country. Our heartfelt prayers go out to the Borges, Brinkman, Christensen, and Jobes families as well as others as they mourn the loss of loved ones. Continued prayers are extended to those battling poor health and injury. A hearty thanks to the Southeast Brangus Breeders Association, Milton Sundbeck and the Town Creek Farm crew for hosting the Fall Conference. Participation and enthusiasm by the committee members and board of directors are greatly appreciated by the
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staff. The IBBA committee members, officers and directors continue to tackle tough issues facing the association and their wisdom will guide us into a successful future. The second release of genomic-enhanced EPDs (GE-EPDs) occurred in mid-August. Breeders are to be commended for embracing the new technology. It is encouraging that you, the breeders, doubled the number of cattle with genomics from the first run to the second run. The Fall 2015 sire summary includes more than 4,000 animals with GE-EPDs. They were generated using data from the low density (30K), high density (50-80K) and ultra-high density (150K) testing that was performed. A majority of the LD tests were ran on the younger, unproven cattle whereas the other tests were used on the AI sires and donor dams. I think it is important to note that several IBBA members who are heavy into other breeds have also embraced the new GEEPDs. In particular, some large operations are now utilizing IBBA to register their Ultrablack cattle because of this added service. This generation of GE-EPDs on those same cattle is not available in the other breed associations. Genetic improvement occurs at a much faster rate when breeders can more accurately identify the best genetics at an earlier point in an animal’s life. As stated in previous articles in the Brangus Journal, GE-EPDs always improve the accuracy of the EPD, which in turn makes them more informative, predictable and precise. Increased accuracies generally save time when evaluating young breeding animals. DNA technology is not going away anytime soon so I hope that each of you embrace it with everything you have. As the chief executive officer of the association, I look forward to the day when every young, unproven Brangus animal has genomic enhanced EPDs prior to being sold. It is pretty impressive that a single DNA sample has the power to be as informative as a bull’s first initial calf crop or the lifetime production record of a cow. Commercial cattlemen have grown accustomed to using GEEPDs in purchasing bulls (from other breeds) in recent years. Therefore, participation in genomics allows collection of more information, which ultimately gives producers more resources to make breeding decisions. These more advanced tools offer cattlemen a faster means of changing genetics in their current population of cattle. Do not hesitate to call me if you have any specific questions about the GE-EPDs, committees, or the Ultrablack program. 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
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IBBA Connection Basics of Step by Step Marketing
O
ctober is our month to focus on promotion and marketing in the IBBA Journal. Promotion and marketing means many different things to people in the beef business. Here are some of my thoughts related to promotion and marketing. First, I would like to thank and congratulate the Marketing and Promotions Committee on their ad campaign this year. The end product is why we are all cattle producers. Marketing and promotion to me is very much tied to reputation. A good reputation is slow to build and is usually hard to change. A description of reputation I found is “The beliefs or opinions that are generally held about someone or something.” For most of us, change is hard to accept. So once a reputation is developed change is usually hard. There are many things to consider when trying to get to the end product and marketing is often forgotten. Since most of us are actually only involved in one of these steps of production, little thought is sometimes considered in reaching the end point. Many learning experiences, and marketing and promotion opportunities lie in each step of the journey. A good end result of successful marketing and promotion would be to help change or develop the opinion of others –
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Brangus Journal
by Mike VOREL IBBA President
for the better. We as a Brangus breed have always enjoyed a great reputation for the mothering ability and durability of the Brangus female. I am not a big fan of the term Eared Breed because along with it comes a reputation of heat tolerance, which is good, but less than perfect carcass traits. While we as Brangus Breeders know the excellent feed conversions and carcass traits that our breed is capable of, we have to build and solidify these findings to all segments of the cattle industry. We as breeders of purebred animals – all breeds included – like to be put on a pedestal and say look at what we are doing. We do have a tremendous responsibility to not just be multipliers of the breed but producers of superior seedstock. Hopefully our main goal is to produce superior seedstock to furnish commercial producers. These commercial producers rely on information provided by our marketing and promotions to make these mating decisions. It is very important to have solid information to back our promotion and marketing efforts. The commercial cow-calf producing segment of our industry is the one who makes the mating decisions using our seedstock and the information we provide through our marketing. This is the first step in producing our end product. We as seedstock producers need to have built in positive carcass traits because only the producers retaining ownership through the whole process are interested in carcass traits at this point. Next, a great set of weaning age calves from a cow calf producer with a good reputation draws attention and demand from a feeder. If this all works as planned, the cow calf producer and seedstock producer gets a feather in their cap, a bump-up in their reputation and an added promotion and marketing opportunity. Helping the cow – calf producer with marketing options and making a profit is key to your marketing plans in the future. There is a down side. If we as seedstock producers have not done a good job solidifying the information provided through our marketing plan the weaned calf producer is not happy and our reputation changes in the direction no one likes. It is harder to climb up a hill to a good reputation than slide down towards a bad one. I know that is not our responsibility, but most know a sick calf at this point has a less than desirable future. I believe this is one point we as seedstock producers could play a big role. Do your homework and offer advice towards a good vaccination & mineral program. All the marketing and promotion on carcass quality has no value if the calves are unhealthy during this time and never have the opportunity to produce a desirable carcass. No genetics or great carcass EPDs can overcome health issues. It might come back to us as seedstock producers instead of the
IBBA Connection problem being placed on the health of the calf. Either way it is not good. By the next step most seedstock producers have gone on to promoting and marketing their next crop of young bulls while the current set of calves is on their way to becoming the end product. The calves are now in the feeders’ hands. The feeders are super excited the calves converted feed better than any before. They grew well and they foresee a good payday. Here’s a great promotion and marketing tool. I know it is extremely hard to follow all these steps. But, if we as a breed association or as a group of breeders help with marketing options on these calves, it is possible to follow the steps of these calves. If the calves do well it is a great opportunity for promotion and marketing. Hopefully this is another step in proving and documenting data. The more of this type of information that we can gather the more we solidify our next promotions. When it does not go as planned we need to know so we can tweak our program, make adjustments, and make a better product. By now these calves are about to change hands again possibly unless ownership is retained to the next step. The packer now gets these calves. It seems by this point the calves have changed hands so many times in most cases gathering carcass information seems nearly impossible. IBBA is working hard to find and follow groups of Brangus sired
calves. We as seedstock producers should try and stay involved throughout the whole process and make every attempt to collect all information possible. Hopefully a cooperation between our members, producers and IBBA Foundation can help gather more of the carcass information needed. This collected carcass information can be used to solidify carcass data and be very helpful in promoting and marketing our great Brangus cattle. Next is the most important of all steps, when the consumer of our end product sits down to dinner and enjoys the flavor and tenderness of the beef they purchased with their hard earned money. The consumer is happy and they want more beef. Brangus cattle meet every criteria throughout these steps. That is the theme behind our marketing campaign and the one we should all promote and market proudly as cattle producers. I realize I did not discuss all of the conventional ways to promote seedstock, your best bull, or your favorite show heifer. I realize that is very important also. I know most of the things I talked about are very basic but crucial to the beef industry. I just hope everyone always remembers the importance of good beef and keeping our consumers happy and looking forward to that next delicious steak. That is what ultimately keeps us all in the beef business. BE PROUD OF OUR GOAL AS SEEDSTOCK PRODUCERS TO PROVIDE HIGH QUALITY BEEF TO CONSUMERS! – IT IS OUR REPUTATION! PROMOTE BEEF EVERYDAY! BJ
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October 2015 | 15
IBBA Connection New Opportunities to Promote BRANGUS
by Tyler DEAN IBBA DIRECTOR OF SHOWS AND Youth PROGRAMS, Brangus Publications editor
A
s the summer comes to a close, the fall is coming alive with opportunities for cattlemen and cattle women nationwide. Solid markets, adequate rain and optimistic forecasts have our industry excited about the future. After a great summer show season, the fall shows are shaping up to be some of the best ever. New marketing opportunities abound whether you are actively involved with show cattle or just a breeder looking to socialize with fellow Brangus enthusiasts. The addition of UltraBlack and UltraRed shows provides a unique opportunity for Brangus breeders across the nation. Those who are utilizing Angus cattle to diversify their genetics now have the opportunity to showcase those animals to fellow breeders as well as to the general public. Even in today’s high tech world of photography and videography, having cattle on display and seeing them in person is still the preferred choice by numerous individuals in our industry. And especially to new individuals looking to get into our industry. Seeing the animals and talking to breeders is still better than Google! IBBA Show Committee member, Katy Wunderlich explained her philosophy about showing UltraBlack and UltraRed cattle. “We know numbers are going to be low starting out, but we are hauling these cattle anyway. And not because we are chasing the banners. We are using these shows and these animals to showcase what our 3/8:5/8 animals are doing with this cross.” Wunderlich had a dominating string of Ultra cattle at the Brangus Futurity in July and is looking forward to seeing increased competition this fall. Utilization of the show ring to promote and market cattle has proven successful for many of our breeders. Those breeders continue year after year to make the investment into not only promoting their program, but also into promoting the entire Brangus breed. The 2016 spring show season will also bring a new and exciting promotion and marketing opportunity as IBBA returns to the historic Southwestern Livestock Exposition in Fort Worth, Texas. After a long spell of not having an open Brangus Show, IBBA and the show management have worked together to get Brangus added back to the lineup of livestock competitions. While not an IBBA point show for 2016, joining the stock show in Fort Worth brings multitudes of opportunities for Brangus breeders. The Brangus show will be held on Monday, January 18, 2016, which just happens to be the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. Furthermore, Brangus cattle will be in the barns during one of the expos largest weekends - the Ranching Heritage Weekend. Groups such as the TCU Ranch Management Program and 16 | October 2015
Brangus Journal
the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association will be holding large events that draw huge numbers of domestic producers into the expo. Where else can Brangus breeders put their best on display to such a high number of dedicated, hardworking, large-scale cattle producers? The stock show’s slogan of “This Thing is Legendary” rings true year after year and I am truly excited about the possibilities Brangus has as we work to build this show and utilize it as a major marketing opportunity. So in conclusion, I encourage you to join us at an upcoming event this fall and it’s not too early to start making plans for next spring. The Western National kicks off IBBA’s Fall Show Season and the fall marketing and promotion opportunities for Brangus enthusiasts. Junior and open shows will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2015. Entries to date are already at record levels and being held in conjunction with the Oklahoma State Fair, the Western National promises to be a great show this year. Additionally, Oklahoma City offers lots to do while in town such as relaxing in Bricktown or dining at the infamous Cattleman’s Steakhouse. The Brangus Show of Merit will be held in Shreveport, La., on October 24, 2015. Always a laid back event the Show of Merit is held in conjunction with the Louisiana State Fair. The Show of Merit will be the second show this season to highlight UltraBlack and UltraRed cattle in their own show. IBBA National and Regional Point shows offer countless opportunities for everyone to promote our breed and I highly encourage each of you to get involved with this aspect of our industry. Whether you decide to have a show string, put animals on display or just be in attendance to not only support those who are in the barns with cattle but also meet and talk to fellow Brangus enthusiasts, I hope you will challenge yourself to attend an upcoming event! BJ
JAN 15
FEB 6
Call, write or click for official entry applications,
premium lists, rodeo tickets and other info.
REGIONAL BRANGUS SHOW JAN. 18 North Texas Chevy Dealers
An ExxonMobil Subsidiary
BEST OF THE WEST INVITATIONAL RANCH RODEO
JAN. 15 & 16 @ 7:30 p.m. A part of Ranching Heritage Weekend presented by Western Horseman ®
BULLS’ NIGHT OUT
WILL ROGERS MEMORIAL CENTER P.O. BOX 150, FORT WORTH, TX 76101 817.877.2400 • FWSSR.COM
JAN. 19 & 20 @ 7:30 p.m. Presented by PlainsCapital Bank
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JAN. 17 @ 7:30 p.m.
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FORT WORTH SUPER SHOOTOUT®
WORLD’S ORIGINAL INDOOR RODEO®
Presented by Univision Radio & Telemundo 39
JAN. 21 @ 7:30 p.m. Presented by SCHAEFER® “America’s Finest Ranchwear”
Presented by Univision Radio & Telemundo 39
JAN. 22 - FEB. 6 @ 10:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Entry Deadline for all Livestock:
NOVEMBER 15, 2015
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IBBA Connection
Allison Deshotel
Fall 2015 Sire Summary
The Fall 2015 Sire Summary is now available online at gobrangus.com. The 2015 Proven Sire listing includes 302 sires having a weaning weight accuracy of .60 or greater and progeny (recorded with IBBA) born in last two (2) years. The 2015 Genetic Venture Sire listing includes 670 sires having a weaning weight accuracy between .35 and .60 and progeny (recorded with IBBA) born in last two (2) years. Additionally, for a bull to be on either listing, he must have a DNA profile on file with IBBA. The complete sire summaries are available online but the following pages show the Genetic Trends and Trait Leaders for the breed. Brangus Journal
October 2015 | 21
IBBA Connection Fall 2015 Genetic Trends
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Brangus Journal
IBBA Connection Fall 2015 Trait Leaders Top Bulls by
Top Bulls by
Calving Ease Direct
Birth Weight
Requirements:
Minimum EPD Accuracy of 0.4. Calf Born 1/1/2012 or later. 1169 bulls met the requirements for this trait.
Requirements:
Minimum EPD Accuracy of 0.5. Calf Born 1/1/2012 or later. 1438 bulls met the requirements for this trait.
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IBBA Connection Fall 2015 Trait Leaders Top Bulls by
Top Bulls by
Weaning Weight
Yearling Weight
Requirements:
Minimum EPD Accuracy of 0.5. Calf Born 1/1/2012 or later. 653 bulls met the requirements for this trait.
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Requirements:
Minimum EPD Accuracy of 0.5. Calf Born 1/1/2012 or later. 253 bulls met the requirements for this trait.
IBBA Connection Fall 2015 Trait Leaders Top Bulls by
Top Bulls by
Milk
Total Maternal
Requirements:
Minimum EPD Accuracy of 0.5. Calf Born 1/1/2012 or later. 161 bulls met the requirements for this trait.
Requirements:
Minimum EPD Accuracy of 0.5. Calf Born 1/1/2012 or later. 161 bulls met the requirements for this trait.
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IBBA Connection Fall 2015 Trait Leaders Top Bulls by
Top Bulls by
Calving Ease Maternal Scrotal Circumference
Requirements:
Minimum EPD Accuracy of 0.4. Calf Born 1/1/2012 or later. 511 bulls met the requirements for this trait.
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Requirements:
Minimum EPD Accuracy of 0.5. Calf Born 1/1/2012 or later. 554 bulls met the requirements for this trait.
IBBA Connection Fall 2015 Trait Leaders Top Bulls by Ultrasound
Top Bulls by Ultrasound
Ribeye Area
Intramuscular Fat
Requirements:
Minimum EPD Accuracy of 0.4. Calf Born 1/1/2012 or later. 644 bulls met the requirements for this trait.
Requirements:
Minimum EPD Accuracy of 0.4. Calf Born 1/1/2012 or later. 495 bulls met the requirements for this trait.
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GENETRUST
Performance Genetics. Trusted Cattlemen.
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IJBBA Connection Building with the BEST
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hat do you think of when you hear the slogan “Build with Brangus?” I first heard that slogan three years ago in a Marketing and Promotions Committee Presentation by Brittni Drennan in Houston, Texas. From that point forward, I continue to be fascinated with how we can make our breed the best it can be. I have learned how the past has brought us to where were are now, how social media has helped promote the breed and how we as breeders can do our part in building the breed by knowing simple information on what we produce in the pasture. When I hear the slogan, “Build with Brangus,” I am thankful for the opportunity to help create a brighter future for the breed as a whole and develop it to its HIGHEST potential. Two crucial components of making this breed bigger and better are using marketing and promotion to our advantages. My family has been in the Brangus breed for 11 years now, and throughout the years I have seen many ways to market and promote this amazing breed. As an IJBBA Director, being able to attend the different events and shows, I have had the opportunity to get to know breeders and how they are involved in not only building their ranch but also building the breed. What I wish I could do, is go back in time and see how this wonderful breed became what it is today. One thing that has helped the Brangus breed promote and market is simply the genetics that have walked through our pastures. Due to the successes of past Brangus breeders, it is easier for us to promote such an awesome breed today. The support of the agricultural industry and other breeders have helped pave the path to the promotion of the Brangus breed. This support has brought research and knowledge to help develop a better market for Brangus cattle. As in any other organization, having a great team of leaders is vital to the success of a marketing and promotions program. Research shows that 61 percent of global Internet users research products online. With this growing statistic it’s only a matter of time before Brangus buyers increase their purchases off the Internet and breeders increase their sales off the Internet. In the
by Allyson POLSTON IjBBA Vice-president
past five years social media has expanded the Brangus breed by promoting and marketing internationally through websites such as Facebook, YouTube and Twitter. Ad space is now opening up on many different websites to promote products and brands. For example, when you visit msn.com the first thing you see are different ads for different products. In the future more websites will offer ads like these. The Brangus breed has the potential to show up on feed stores and local cattlemen’s websites. Bidding in an auction is now as simple as the click of a button rather than being there in person. When having a cattle sale online, it gives potential customers the opportunity to bid and look at the high quality of cattle you have raised and bred. When selling Brangus online you are promoting not only your name and ranch, but you are also promoting the Brangus breed as a whole. We want to promote the best so we can be the best! Lastly, another good way to promote and market the Brangus breed is with smartphones. Research shows that 80 percent of Internet users own a smartphone. So basically the world is at our fingertips. With this technology it makes it easier for breeders to get in touch with other cattlemen and promote the breed. Why not take advantage of this part of technology and run with it? We have learned from the past and have a paved road for the future of the Brangus breed. As a junior board member I am excited to see what the future of the Brangus breed brings. I believe that technology will lead the way to building a better future for the breed and also give us many new opportunities. I hope everyone continues to Build with the BEST! BJ
2015-2016 IJBBA Board of Directors
President Quinn Carter, Haines City, FL quinn.carter95@yahoo.com
Ex-Officio Racheal Sharp, Konawa, OK racheal.sharp.rs@gmail.com
Vice President Allyson Polston, Lakeland, FL goober4141@gmail.com
SOC Sale Chair Meghan Pickett, Robeline, LA meghanpickett14@gmail.com
Secretary Emilee Garza, Spring, TX garza.emilee1@gmail.com
Reporter McKenzie Posey, Wayne, OK posey_mckenzie@yahoo.com
Director Kendra Brull, Atchison, KS kendrabrull20@gmail.com
Director Dana Patterson, Alachua, FL dpatterson.2016@gmail.com
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 30 | October 2015
Brangus Journal
Time. Money. Reputation. Time, they say, is money. GeneSeek® Genomic Profiles™ (GGP) help you select young seedstock with confidence. With GGP you can focus time and money on the best – the cattle that brand your legacy. Verify maternal, performance and carcass traits in one accurate profile. Plus confirm parentage and genetic health in the same step. Just imagine the possibilities. We know you are good at what you do. GGP makes you even better.
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Neogen: GeneSeek Operations • 4131 N. 48th Street, Lincoln, NE 68504 877-443-6489 • www.neogen.com/Genomics • geneseekinfo@neogen.com
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Marketing Update Capitalize on the Good Times
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all is upon us and has been for some time now. The International Brangus Breeders Association had a very enjoyable and well thought out Fall Brangus Conference at Town Creek Farm in West Point, Miss. Many great ideas were shared and brought up in meetings and fellowship. If you weren’t able to make this years conference I strongly urge you to plan on being at the next one. Sale season has been off to a great start and I hope your fall calving is off to a great start as well. Please send pictures to my email address, the office or to the Facebook page and we will share those when we can, and you might even see your picture on the front cover of the Brangus Journal. This time of year there are many thoughts running through the heads of cattlemen and women across the country. Two big thoughts are fall calving and bull buying. As calves hit the ground and move through the next growth phase, you should start thinking about your plans to market those calves down the road. Whether you are planning to sell them private treaty, through a production sale, direct to a feedlot or at your local livestock market, you want to have a solid preconditioning or backgrounding program in place. Everyone’s operation is a little different and that is understandable, but the ultimate goal is for your cattle to be in the best shape possible when it comes selling time. They may be a ways off from being sold but your preparations to market those calves should have started at conception. It is important that you start your calves out right to make for a positive growth curve. As always, it depends on your situation and geographic location but many cattlemen have found that fall calving has helped them find success in their operation. Fall brings more consistent weather conditions with less volatility in temperatures. Dry clean pastures in the warmer months provide an ideal environment for cows to calve in. Many ranchers feel that avoiding some of the heavy moisture and mucky conditions that are not uncommon in the spring, help to prevent some sickness and death loss during the calving season. Having a consistent climate to start out and grow plays a major role in survival rates of calves and ultimately keeps money in your pocket. Not only is fall a beneficial time for newborn calves; it gives the cow a little bit of a break as well. Fall calving can be advantageous especially with a year like this one, because cows typically should have a little higher body condition on them at calving. This is because they didn’t have a calf at side during the summer grazing period. A higher body condition score can result in greater calving ease and less assistance required on your part. This will also help their reproductive efficiency come breeding season. Not only can calving be made more appealing in the fall, but the strong demand for weaned calves in the spring can also drive ones interest for this type of a program. Spring provides the ideal situation for weaned calves, grass is becoming more plentiful and the demand 42 | October 2015
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by Kyle DYKES IBBa commercial marketing Coordinator
for weaned calves provides an up market to sell in. Nevertheless, no production scheme is perfect and that is why we work hard to improve the ability of the cattle we produce. The two major disadvantages that you must plan for in a fall calving situation is the lack in quality forage and the cost to maintain your cow calf pairs through the winter. The transition between warm and cool season grasses finds you having to do some extra supplementation. However, with proper preparation throughout the year and capitalizing on high cattle prices when you can, you won’t be sweating that problem near as much. Look at both spring and fall calving programs and make the decision that best fits your needs. Some producers even take advantage of both seasons and are very successful. Overall, analyze your situation and pick the management option that you are most confident in. The other thought I mentioned was bull buying and the sale season that cattle raisers take part in each year. I hope everyone received the Frontline Beef Producer publication for September. I mentioned several factors relating to bull buying in that column, so I won’t go into huge detail on that. It was a great opportunity to write to commercial cattlemen on bull selection for this sale season. I would like to approach that topic from the seller’s perspective and take a second to commend Brangus producers on the great cattle that you are breeding. Not only can these animals sell themselves from a genetic and versatility standpoint, but also they present themselves very well at sales across the country because of their easy fleshing ability and uniform look. This uniformity at sale time is highlighted by the extra care and pride that breeders put into raising these animals. When buyers are at a sale they should be presented with an animal that is in good flesh but not over conditioned. When getting ready to sell your cattle you want them to be in the best condition possible. That includes having them professionally fitted and either pictured or videoed. Let the pros handle that task. You are the pro when it comes to building the product, but photographers and videographers have the knowledge and experience to make your cattle look their best on sale day. In todays world you really do get what you pay for. I’m not saying to hire someone and forget about it, but be involved in every aspect of the process. This is your time to showcase what you have been working for all year. Communication is key and the person you hire to help market your product should know what your thoughts and goals are. Go the extra mile and you won’t regret it. With cattle prices as good as they have been this year going the extra mile may not be too much trouble. It is time to think about improving your genetics, facilities, and business practices. Not only would it be a tax write off but it will ultimately make you stand out to those that stop by the ranch. Hopefully, this year you were able to generate some extra cash flow and build a little more equity into your operation. This can make way for opportunities to expand in multiple different areas of your business. My suggestion is to pick an area you
Marketing Update want to improve upon and focus on that first then move on to the next when you are able. To start, make a list of your business goals and build an outline for yourself. This outline should fit the style of your operation whether you have a day job and are supplementing it by raising cattle, managing a cattle operation for someone else, or the cattle business is your “bread and butter”. A wise man told me that it is always good to have a few different avenues of income lined up. You might have to work a little harder, but markets fluctuate as we have seen this year and in years past, so it’s best to be prepared for anything. One aspect of your business may be taking a hit in the market, but the other can be there to make up for it and vise versa. You might already be doing this, but I recommend visiting with a CPA that has experience in dealing with agricultural accounts. A good CPA will help you on the road to success and ensure that you are making the correct financial decisions to keep your business in the black. Once built, stick with your outline and follow it, making your top goals a priority. Your first goal might be to improve the quality of your cowherd and change out your inventory. This is a very important point that can pay dividends in the long run when prices go down just as they always do in any industry. If you have the highest quality cattle that you can afford, you will not only produce better cattle in the good times but your cattle will still be in demand to those buying during the tough times. If this is your top priority then focus on the type of cattle you are trying to raise and select for the traits that reflect that. I highly encourage you to visit Brangus breeders across the country
and find out what they have to offer. Attend every sale that you can this season and not only meet with the IBBA staff in attendance, but also meet the breeders and inquire about their genetics. Don’t forget to write off those miles traveled for your business! Let breeders and staff know what you need and they will be more than happy to help you find something to accommodate. When sorting through animals at sales, make it a priority to purchase cattle that excel in their EPDs as well as from a phenotypic standpoint. You might not be able to buy a trailer full of those animals, but you will see the benefits and get more “bang for your buck” when the next calving season comes along. Replace older cattle with fresh genetics while you have the equity to do so. Replacing older cows now will serve to benefit you in the years to come. Todays Brangus females will last breeders a long time and you don’t have to go far to hear testimony on that statement. If you are able to add new higher quality inventory now you will have easier culling decisions down the road, and you can breed for your own replacements when you get to that point. It is important to evaluate your operation and business management practices. Take advantage of the great year we have had to make improvements where they are needed in order to prepare for the months ahead. Thank you for reading and as always, don’t hesitate to contact us at the office at any time. The IBBA is here for your benefit. The best way to get further in this industry is to share ideas and call upon help when needed. Call or come visit the office at any time or schedule a ranch visit today. BJ
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Feature Article
Bull in a High Priced Selection Bull Market by Tommy PERKINS, Ph.D., PAS IBBA Executive Vice President
T
Tracy Holbert
he cattle industry is experiencing some really good times for marketing bulls and it is an absolute must that you use the highest quality bull(s) you can identify and afford. Finding this breeding piece may mean that you have to settle for use of artificial insemination (AI) if the price of the natural service sire exceeds your budget. The average bull has increased about three to five times in purchase price over the past couple of years. Therefore, in some situations, AI may be more economically feasible than buying a new herd sire to settle your cows. It is important to note, sire selection includes more than just going through a producerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sale catalog or a semen sire directory to find the best
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(highest) EPDs in the offering. Selecting for extremes can certainly lead to a train wreck, especially when selecting for extremes using a single or minimal number of traits (e.g. highest milk EPD can lead to failed rebreeding in lesser management situations). I prefer you narrow your search for the top bull(s) through an approach that balances EPDs across the board and not selecting for single extremes. You can put threshold levels on some traits while trying to improve other traits at a higher level. For example, you can select only animals in the 50th percentile (or better) for calving ease, weaning weight and marbling that also reach the 25th percentile for scrotal
Feature Article circumference, yearling weight and ribeye area. This should minimize impact of genetic antagonisms, move traits of importance along at a higher rate and prevent genetic loss (or base) you have already established in your herd. Semen directories and sale catalogs are a great place to start but should be followed up with a detailed phenotypic evaluation of animals making the EPD top cut. This may not always be feasible, particularly in AI sires, but should be done if at all possible. Research and investigation into the quality of the sires dam is just as important as seeing the bull himself. AI offers you use of highly proven sires which provide even more investigational opportunities into their genetic potential. For example, it is pretty easy to evaluate the performance of daughters already in production from these proven sires. This evaluation should include getting off of the ranch and visiting other ranches, both locally and across the country, to see their offspring in working condition. Selecting AI sires that have a large number of daughters in production can lead to improved udder characteristics over time. It is important to see these cattle performing at a high level in a similar management style and environment that your herd is under. Phenotypic selection for structural soundness, reproductive soundness, growth, udder quality, fleshing ability, muscling, disposition and others should be high on your list of importance. Although some of these traits are considered convenience traits they will be necessary for efficient, profitable cattle production. Structural soundness involves visual appraisal of the animalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s movement (both to and from), foot size and shape, angle, joint size, leg set, pastern angle and more. Evaluation of feet and leg structure, not only ensures the ability to service cows, but also suggests he should maintain feet and leg soundness in his offspring. This trait seems to take on more importance in the show ring if you are marketing show heifers. However, emphasis on too straight of a hind leg may result in breeding problems in the pasture. Bulls must pass a breeding soundness exam (BSE) prior to turn out every breeding season. Bulls passing a BSE are generally cleared as reproductively sound in terms of semen quality and physical ability to get cows pregnant. Observation of libido (sexual desire to breed) should also be determined prior to bull purchase or soon thereafter with cows in standing
heat. Yearling scrotal circumference, taken during a BSE, is a good indicator of a bullâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sperm-producing capabilities as well as puberty of his daughters. Sheath design is an important trait, particularly in Brahmaninfluenced bulls, due to injury of the prepuce and penis. Loose and pendulous sheaths are more prone to injury than tighter, less pendulous sheaths. Sheath character is moderately heritable and many sires are available with correct sheath size and angle as a result of genetic selection. (continued on page 46)
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Feature Article
Doguet Diamond D
structurally unsound, infertile bulls whereas selection based only on visual appraisal will not maximize the genetic potential of the bull. Visual appraisal, utilized during sire selection, will only complement the use of EPDs, bull test performance data, pedigree information, BSE results and bull prices In summary, single-trait selection should be avoided at all cost when selecting a herd sire. Emphasis on one, or a few traits, can lower performance for other traits due to genetic antagonisms that exist. Bull selection entails finding the correct balance between growth and milk in conjunction with maintenance energy requirements of your cow herd. Proper bull selection will help you maintain this difficult balance without decreasing overall reproductive performance. A balanced approach to sire selection which focuses on several economically important traits will lead to more efficient genetic herd improvements. BJ
Town Creek Farm
GENETRUST
(continued from page 45) Optimum growth is certainly an important trait to evaluate in a herd sire. Bulls need adequate growth, not extreme frame size, because you will probably be retaining replacement females that may become mature cows over time. Selection for bulls with too much growth may lead to mature cow weights that become extreme for your management and/or ranch environment. This will generally hurt cow fertility (breed back) in limited forage producing years. There are always exceptions to the rule. I understand that some environments may offer more (or higher moisture) forage for consumption where a bigger cow is needed to utilize the feed resource. Others may not be retaining replacement heifers as every animal becomes terminal. This allows selection for more growth necessary for maximum profits in the feedlot and packing industry. Again, it is important to have a grasp of your ranch environment and management restraints when making that growth selection decision. Muscling is a trait commonly evaluated visually by bull buyers. However, selection for muscling using ribeye area EPDs, based on carcass measurements and/or ultrasound, generally result in more improvement in overall carcass muscling as opposed to visual selection for muscling. Bulls with nervous, flighty or overly aggressive dispositions usually create management issues for producers, breeding specialists, marketing agents, feedlot personnel and others. Therefore, these types of animals should be avoided as it has been shown to be a moderately heritable trait. You can definitely be overwhelmed by the amount of data available today. However, use of the proper information available may lead to fewer disappointments in the future. Selection using only performance values may not eliminate
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Feature Article
Selection for Feet and Leg Soundness in Brangus Cattle by Mark JOHNSON, Ph.D. Associate Professor oklahoma state university
T
he value of beef cattle, in all sectors of the industry including purebred seedstock and commercial, are at an all-time high. Accordingly, with beef production requiring such a substantial investment, the economic importance of cattle having longevity in production, being problem free and practical to own is of primary importance. Seedstock breeders focus selection programs and breeding objectives on making genetic improvement in traits of economic importance to
Foot Angle
Scores should be taken prior to the animal being 600 days of age. When scoring look at all four feet and pick the worst foot on which to base your score.
1- Too Straight 2- Slightly Straight 3- Correct Angle 4- Slightly too much set/angle 5- Too much set/angle
Claw Size and Set
Scores should be taken prior to the animal being 600 days of age. To score claw set look at all four hooves and pick the worst one to base your score on.
1- Widely spread, too big footed 2- Spread more than normal, big footed 3- Narrow width, slight touching of claws, medium footed 4- Claw tips are long, small footed 5- Claw tips cross over each other, too small footed 48 | October 2015
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the beef industry. A new Feet and Leg Scoring System has been introduced by the International Brangus Breeders Association to serve as means by which breeders can genetically improve the potential longevity of breeding stock and thereby their profitability to the end user. What follows is the new Feet and Leg Scoring System for the four measures the IBBA will be seeking to establish a database and a means of evaluation.
Feature Article Rear Leg Profile View
Scores should be taken prior to the animal being 600 days of age. To score rear leg profile view look at the two rear legs from the side and base your score on the weakest one.
1- Too straight in the rear legs, or Post-Legged 2- Slightly straight in the rear legs 3- Correct angle or set to the rear legs 4- Slightly too much set or angle to the rear legs 5- Too much angle or set to the rear legs, Sickle-Hocked
Rear View
Scores should be taken prior to the animal being 600 days of age. To score rear view stand behind the animal and look at the animals back legs. Pick the worst leg out of the two and base your score on that leg.
1- Too much bow in the rear legs 2- Slightly bowed in the rear legs 3- Correct angle or set to the rear legs 4- Slightly cow hocked in the rear legs 5- Cow hocked in the rear legs Selection pressure is a precious commodity that should not be squandered. Traits should be carefully evaluated according to several important criteria before being included in a selection program. The economic importance of a trait is one of those criteria. No doubt feet and leg soundness, as it relates to longevity in production and profitability of beef production, is economically significant. Another consideration is heritability. Heritability provides an indication of how easily genetic change can be made. Studies done in Australia estimate the heritability for foot angle at 0.13 =/- 0.02. As well, the heritability for Claw Set to be 0.16 +/- 0.02. These heritabilities are low but indicate that genetic improvement can be made through selection. After considering the first two criteria, it is also critical that a trait can be accurately measured and quantified in order to be successfully selected for. This is the fundamental basis for establishing the scoring system outlined above. The scoring system, which is based on the intermediate option being the best, for each of the four traits being scored, serves as a reference point. For example too straight in a joint pastern or hock joint would be scored as a 1; in contrast, animals too weak in their pasterns or with too much set to their hock would be scored as a 5. By using this system, all breeders can score feet and legs from the same perspective. Following the guidelines for scoring cattle within contemporary groups will permit breeders and the International Brangus Breeders Association to establish a database, which will in time be used to generate genetic predictions in the form of EPDs. This system can be used by breeders to make genetic improvement in the feet and leg soundness of Brangus cattle. Genetic change is cumulative and permanent, and results in long-term breed improvement. Improvement in the feet and leg soundness of
breeding stock should in turn keep them in production longer and lead to a greater return on customers’ investment in high quality Brangus seedstock. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Mark Johnson is an Associate Professor of Animal Science at Oklahoma State University where he held the Totusek Endowed Chair of Animal Science from 2009 to 2014. He has served as the Supervisor of the OSU Purebred Beef Cattle Center since 1992. Mark also coached the OSU Livestock Judging Team from 1992 to 2013, during which time; the team finished either Champion or Reserve Champion team in 70 percent of their contests. He earned the “National Coach of the Year” award seven times, coached six teams that won the American Royal and four National Champion teams. The 2007 OSU team holds the all-time record for high team score at the American Royal. The 2005 OSU team set the record for the all-time high score in the National Championship contest. The 2012 OSU team holds the alltime record for high team score in the Carload contest at the National Western. The 2001, 2010 and 2012 OSU National Champion teams are three of the only 12 teams in history to win the American Royal and Louisville contests back to back. A lifelong cattlemen, Mark has much experience in judging cattle shows including national events, jackpots and state fairs. Mark, his wife Brenda and two daughters Sydney and Charley, live on a ranch near Orlando, Okla., where they operate J&J Cattle Company. BJ
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Feature Article
Value in
Video
by Chloe GEYE Chloe consulting
Why Producers Should Add Video to their Marketing Mix
S
tarting off this discussion on a negative note isn’t ideal, but let’s face it people - these days just having photos of your stock doesn’t cut it for most if not all buyers. According to the 2015 Livestock Marketing Survey Report, on average only 4 percent of buyers trust purchasing an animal relying solely on their photograph. With a growing distrust of livestock sale photography, the obvious remedy is video. The
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capabilities for video in the livestock world are literally endless regardless of how much you think your skills or budget might limit you. Simply said, Yes, you can teach an old bull new tricks.
The Stats Don’t Lie Ya’ll…
The fact that video is king in the marketing world isn’t news by any means. Statistics are flowing from every outlet of the media about why companies should be utilizing videos in their online marketing strategies. According to a report by Cisco, a prominent multinational technology company, by 2019, videos will make up for 80 percent of all global Internet traffic. That’s a 64 percent increase from 2014. According to Entrepreneur.com, 68 percent of marketers are planning on increasing their digital video ads. As cattle owners, we are in turn cattle marketers, and following trends in this case is a pretty good idea. If you don’t think these numbers apply to you or the cattle industry, just take a look around the barn the next time you’re at a show or sale. How many people, kids and adults alike, do you see on their phones?
Feature Article But Video is Expensive…
There’s no denying that there’s a huge variation in the different levels in quality of videos that are out there. However, with proper planning and a good purpose behind your video content you can still reap the benefits of video. Let’s start with the easiest type of video that is the cheapest to produce. For the most part, we’ve almost all got cell phones with some sort of video capability. Ideally, a smartphone, like an iPhone, is the best for video. Taking video on an iPhone is relatively simple, and in app editing tools allow you to trim the video to the length that you desire. IPhone videos are ideal for short clips of things happening on the ranch, at the show, or to use as a supplement to sale cattle videos. For ranch history videos and sale videos that might be used in an online sale, iPhones just don’t cut it as far as quality goes. The next step up would be to utilize the video recording capabilities of a DSLR camera. The quality of video recorded with this camera is substantially better than that of a smartphone, but it requires more knowledge of the camera as well as editing in some cases. Most computers come with a basic video editing software. For Mac users, you’ll find that iMovie is a fantastic tool that allows you to cut and compile video clips, add text, and export your creation. Windows users, Movie Maker is the video editing software that is included with your computer. It has similar functions and capabilities to iMovie for Mac users. If you’re just starting out on your video production adventure and your editing experience is lacking, YouTube and Vimeo are wonderful sources for tutorials on how to get started. The highest quality video that you can achieve is a professionally produced video. Whether you’re looking at doing sale videos or a video about your ranch, these videos will be the most expensive. However, the saying you get what you pay for rings true here. These individuals are experienced at what they do. They have high quality equipment to bring you the best final product possible, and they know how to tell a story through their work.
So What Can I Do With Video?
The most common video that you’ve seen time and time again is the sale video. The goal here is to give an accurate representation of the animal and the way it moves as if you were viewing it in person. Typically, most ranches will hire a professional to come out to their place and take these videos. Your income depends on the success of the sale, so if you’re comfortable handling these videos yourself then by all means go for it. If you’re not sure about your abilities, it’s always a good idea to utilize a reputable individual or company to come and take these videos for you. A video type that’s not used very often is a video that’s produced to introduce an upcoming sale. It can be used as a teaser until the videos
Tips and Tools Tips • When using an iPhone, turn over your phone horizontal instead of upright. • ALWAYS stabilize your camera source. Most tripods are cheap, and you can find one for any camera. • Pay attention to your light source! Avoid hard shadows when videoing people. • Sound is important. If you’re doing your own ranch videos, use a microphone to improve the quality of your sound. Tools • BorrowLenses.com - Rent any sort of camera or video equipment for any period of time. *Always get insurance! • YouTube - There are tons of tutorial videos and how-to’s on YouTube for all experience levels. • Cameo App - iPhone app that lets you edit videos on your phone. To top it off, it’s free! of the cattle are actually released. Depending on the weather and situation the cattle are in, sometimes there are obstacles that can keep cattle videos from being finished well in advance of the sale, and this video type would create some interest and increase demand for the sale videos. Finally, we’ve reached ranch videos. This is where the story of the operation is told. Whether your ranch has a long and influential history or if you’re fresh faced and new, it’s all highlighted here. These ranch videos are great for website homepages. Web viewers are more likely to stay on your website longer if they’ve watched a video. You can tack that on as another reason to move into the video age. So here’s to the old and young bulls alike; no matter your size nor age, video is for you. No matter how you look at it, we’re a video nation. The statistics show that the video train isn’t slowing down any time soon. BJ ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Raised on her family’s farm and ranch, Chloe’s passion for agriculture and the cattle industry has deep roots in Central Texas. It may be a speck on the Texas map to most, but Rising Star is where she’ll always call home. The choice was an easy one when it came to choosing a university to attend. Texas A&M was where she had wanted to go well before she knew there was even a choice. While at A&M she garnered much experience in the agricultural marketing and communications industry by working with some of the most talented names in the business. She graduated there with two degrees, one in Animal Science and the other in Agriculture Communication and Journalism. Much to her surprise, she’s now located in Ardmore, Okla., with her fiancé. She started up Chloe Consulting, her own marketing company that specializes in photography, video, and social media management. There’s no doubt that she’s a new face, but the drive, passion, and commitment to the success of her clients is second to none.
Brangus Journal
October 2015 | 51
Membership Welcome New Members JAMES & RHONDA PRISOCK :: STURGIS, MS
REGAL DICKS :: LAKE CITY, FL
BH RANCH, BRETT HEBERT :: ABBEVILLE, LA
FINLAY CATTLE COMPANY, DOUGLAS E & TAMMY R FINLEY :: TROUT, LA
KNIGHT LAND & CATTLE, TUCKER KNIGHT :: HOUSTON, TX
FLOYD FARMS, FRENCHIE FLOYD :: SYLACAUGA, AL
TREVOR BENTCH :: VERSAILLES, MO
CHILDERS CATTLE FARM, MICHAEL CHILDERS :: ALACHUA, FL
DANNY MONTOYA :: LAS CRUCES, NM
RANCHO DE LOS SANTOS, JUAN T SANTOS :: JACKSONVILLE, FL
ROBERT A WARD SR :: MONTEVALLO, AL
BUFFALOE FAMILY TRUST :: VICTORIA, TX
SUNSHINE FARMS, JAMEY REYNOLDS :: MOODY, AL
GLENN SEBESTA :: DANBURY, TX
BONNEAU CATTLE COMPANY, JEFFERY & REBECCA BONNEAU :: TROUT, LA
REIFEL CATTLE COMPANY, TREVOR REIFEL :: ALVIN, TX
WETHERBY STATION, KATHLEEN COLLESS :: MT MOLLOY, QUEENSLAND
L & S OUTBACK FARM, DR STEPHEN AND LAURE FOSTER :: JOSHUA,TX
BRAD WATTS :: WESSON, MS
DAVIS FAMILY FARM, EDDIE DAVIS :: SANDERSON, FL
D C MORRISON :: LITTLE ROCK, AR
MAYES FARM, RANDY MAYES :: PULASKI, TN
Memorials Established for Mr. Don Jobes and Marcos Borges III
T
o commemorate the lives of two recently departed members of the Brangus and Red Brangus Families, the IRBBA Memorial Scholarship Foundation is announcing Memorial Funds that will allow their memories to live on.
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The family of Mr. Don Jobes has established the “Don Jobes Legacy Scholarship”. The Scholarship will be awarded each spring to a deserving High School Senior or College Student who exemplifies the passion and dedication to the Livestock Industry that Mr. Jobes had his entire life. The “Marcos Borges III Memorial Fund” has been established to honor the life of Marcos and the significance that the Borges family has for Red Brangus and Brangus breeders around the world. Marcos was a vibrant, outgoing young man with a passion and talent for soccer. He excelled in academics and athletics. Growing up on OB Ranch and MBJ Ranch, he shared his father’s dedication for the cattle industry, with a keen appreciation for his family’s legacy from Brazil to their home in Wharton. Donations to both Memorial Funds may be sent to the: IRBBA Memorial Scholarship Fund 1260 Pin Oak Road, #204 Katy, Texas 77494 Please note which Memorial Fund your Donation is intended for. For more information please contact IRBBA Memorial Scholarship Foundation President Tracee Buffaloe Price 281.748.2399 or traceebprice@gmail.com BJ
Membership IBBA Committees Taking Nominations for Directors
T
he International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) nominating committee will be taking nominations for positions on the Board of Directors. Nominations for areas 1, 5, 7, 9 and 10 will be accepted until October 5, and the candidates will be announced in the November Brangus Journal along with their biographies. The election ballots will be mailed out November 10, and will
have to be postmarked to the accounting office by December 31. The candidate receiving the largest number of votes in each electoral area will be announced after tabulation occurs in mid January. Nominations for the following areas should be directed to the committees:
Area 1
Area 5
Chuck Sword, Chair :: 770-468-3486 cnffarm@aol.com Eddy Roberts :: 386-623-4032 wetfarm1@windstream.net Johnny Vines :: 205-594-5307 jrvines@windstream.net Seat Currently Held by: Chuck Sword
Jack Gorczyca, Chair :: 405-760-9057 gorczycabrangus@juno.com Frank Perry :: 405-833-5189 dfrankp@yahoo.com Shiloh Hall :: 918-798-1337 shiloh518@yahoo.com Seat Currently Held by: Mike Vorel
Area 7
Area 9
Mike Kammerer, Chair :: 936-449-5744 jlkamm@earthlink.net Buck Thomason :: 254-597-7140 aggiebuck@gmail.com Mike Doguet :: 409-790-0345 doguetmccoy@att.net Seat Currently Held by: Russ Williamson
Brandon Belt, Chair :: 254-248-5260 brandonbelt@aol.com Bradley Hodde bhodde@hlcc.com Keith Ernest :: 806-456-7757 earnestfour@yahoo.com Seat Currently Held by: Danny Farris
Area 10 Carolyn Belden Carson, Chair :: 530-713-5111 cbcbeef@gmail.com Pamela Doiron :: 805-245-0434 doiron@spanishranch.net Larry Parker :: 520-508-3505 jddiane@vtc.net Seat Currently Held by: Larry Parker
BJ
Correction
In the August 2015 issue of the Brangus Journal in the article titled “Champions Crowned at 33rd NJBS” on page 37, the Champion and Reserve Champion Red Females were mistakenly switched in the text. Taylor Goerlitz of Brenham, Texas, exhibited Dos XX’s Stretch’s Stardust to claim the titles of Reserve Red Yearling Heifer and Grand Champion Red Brangus Female. Stardust is an April 2014 daughter of Dos XX’s Chief ’s Mr Stretch. Morgan Maxwell of Springtown, Texas led Trio’s MLS Angelfire 175A from the Junior Heifer Division to take home the title of Reserve Champion Red Brangus Female. The November 2013 female is a daughter of Trio’s Sequoia 112S. The pictures on page 36 of the issus were published correctly and our most sincere apologies for this text error.
Brangus Journal
October 2015 | 53
Membership Florida Cattlemen’s Association Awards 2015 Premier Animal Awards
by Sandra MARVEL Florida Cattlemen’s association Seed stock council premier awards committee member
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he Florida Cattlemen’s Association (FCA) sponsors an award program involving five Florida shows each year. These include the Greater Jacksonville Fair, South Florida Fair, Florida State Fair, Miami-Dade
2015 PREMIER BRANGUS BULL: QMC Mr Grit of Lambert 192Z
QMC Mr Grit of Lambert 192Z was the 2015 Premier Brangus Bull for the FCA. He is owned and shown by Casey Harper of Haines City, Fla. This outstanding bull also finished third in the Junior FCA points series. In 2014 and 2015, he won Grand Champion at the South Florida Fair, Florida State Fair, MiamiDade Expo, Miami International Cattle Show, as well as several county and youth shows. He also completed the 2014-2015 IBBA Show Season ranked 11th in national points with the IBBA for Show Bull of the Year. Harper Cattle and Timber was established in 2006. Their operations are based in two locations, Farmerville, La., and Haines City, Fla. The Harper family originally started with registered Angus and commercial cattle. Now, with Casey’s successes, they are focusing on quality Brangus and Brangusinfluenced commercial cattle.
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Expo, and Miami International Cattle Show. The purpose of the program is to recognize the cattle, breeders and exhibitors that perform at a superior level by accumulating points at the included shows.
2015 PREMIER BRANGUS FEMALE: Marvel’s Kissimmee 513
Marvel’s Kissimmee 513 is the 2015 Premier Brangus Female for the Florida Cattlemen’s Association. She is bred, owned and shown by Dan and Sandra Marvel of High Springs, Fla. After winning Division and Reserve Championships as a yearling, Kissimmee matured into an impressive, well-balanced female and won Grand Champion at all five point shows in Florida, including the Greater Jacksonville Fair, South Florida Fair, Florida State Fair, Miami-Dade Expo, and Miami International Cattle Show. Even though she is a Red Brangus, Kissimmee competed in all the shows against Black Brangus females. She is the first Red Brangus to win a Premier Award from the FCA. She calved at 25 months, finishing the 2015 show season with her calf at side. Her dam is R2 MS FH 162P, who is also the dam of the 2009 ARBA National Champion Bull, Marvel’s Red Gator 2/6. Her sire is R2 Extra Style 880P, the sire of multiple National and Regional Champions.
Membership 2015 PREMIER INDIVIDUAL BRANGUS EXHIBITOR: Casey Harper
Casey Harper was recognized as the 2015 Premier Individual Brangus Exhibitor. She is a very active 17 year old senior at Haines City High School in Polk County, Fla. She started showing cattle in the ninth grade and has been an active member of her FFA chapter. While serving as Secretary of the Southeastern Region Junior Brangus Board, she has shown cattle in four different states, including Florida, Louisiana, Texas, and Oklahoma. This show season, Casey will have many bulls and her first set of bred and owned females on the show string.
year. This year, Emily has hit her goal, selling bulls for $8,500 and $8,000 in private treaty sales to customers. Emily has won countless awards in the show ring, for her showmanship and the quality of cattle that she breeds. Her most recent accomplishment is raising a string of cattle that she took to the NJBS in Oklahoma, where she brought home three Division Championships in the Bred and Owned Show. In 2014, she won Florida Premier Bull with LB Mr. Johnny Ringo 78Y5 and also Florida Premier Exhibitor. Emily’s number one goal is to always be a role model for young adults wanting to get started in the cattle industry. She feels she has just begun to make her mark, and looks forward to the future ahead in the Brangus breed.
2015 PREMIER BRANGUS BREEDER: Marvel Farms
2015 PREMIER RANCH Brangus EXHIBITOR: Lettelier Brangus
Lettelier Brangus of Citra, Fla., was established in 1975 and has always focused on producing top quality Brangus seed stock for Florida’s tropical climate. Joseph and Beverley Lettelier, along with their daughters Emily and Lauren, have been showing their superior cattle for the past 18 years, building a legacy of championships throughout Florida and across the Southern United States. All four family members have contributed to the time, energy and care needed to raise the high caliber of cattle they exhibit. These days, 22-year-old Emily is the ranch manager for Lettelier Brangus. She runs the day-to-day operations of her family’s 160 acre registered Brangus cattle ranch with 100 plus head of cattle. Emily is AI certified and also helps teach AI at the ABS classes in addition to setting up and breeding her own cattle. She also conducts an extensive health management practice at Lettelier Brangus and she constantly strives to have her animals in the best health possible. Lettelier Brangus sells most of the family bulls off the farm and has built up a loyal clientele, many purchasing two to three bulls a
Marvel Farms has been raising registered Red Brangus since 1982. Starting with commercial cattle in North Central Florida, Dan and Sandra Marvel looked for a breed that would be productive, feed efficient, gentle and profitable. They found Edwin Thompson, in Ona, Fla., who had a large herd of Red Brangus. They purchased eight cows and from that foundation they worked to improve their cattle by selecting and introducing better genetics with AI. The Marvels have also used embryo collection and transfer to increase the production from their best females. Their goal is to produce top quality Red Brangus cattle that are adapted to tropical environments. The Marvels started showing cattle when their children were old enough to show in 4-H. Through the years they have sponsored over 20 young people to show Red Brangus. Along with sharing a love of their animals, they helped to teach the skills and ethics that make good cattlemen or cattlewomen. Dan and Sandra found that showing and competing helped them to evaluate their animals and gave them an opportunity to view quality cattle from other farms. They have won several Grand Championships at the Florida State Fair and at National Shows. While marketing their bulls throughout the Southeast, they saw the opportunity to market good genetics internationally. They have collected semen and embryos from their best animals and have exported them to South Africa, Uruguay, Paraguay, Argentina, Columbia, Costa Rica, Panama, Mexico and Cuba as well as domestic sales in the United States. These sales have also given them an opportunity to travel to Cuba, Paraguay and Argentina. BJ Brangus Journal
October 2015 | 55
Membership Town Creek Farms Puts on IBBA Fall Conference and SBBA Field Day
T
own Creek Farm and the Southeast Brangus Breeders Association hosted the annual Brangus Fall Conference and SBBA Field Day in West Point, Miss., August 20-22. Attracting more than 190 members, committee representatives and producers, from 13 states and one from South America, the events were fun and informative for all. The event kicked off Thursday, August 20, with a Three-Man Golf Scramble at Old Waverly Championship Golf Club and a Skeet Shoot at Prairie Wildlife Preserve. By noon it was back to business with committee meetings at the Town Creek Farm Pavilion, and a “Chat and Chew” social concluded the evening. Friday jumpstarted the Trade Show and continued with committee meetings throughout the morning. The afternoon began with the Brangus Conference luncheon with Chandler Keys, Principal at Keys Group, headlining the event. Keys spoke about his background in the agricultural industry along with issues producers face when raising beef. “It is an iconic product that the suburban household loves,” Keys said. Even with elite societies pushing at producers all the
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Brangus Journal
by Jessica JOHNSTON IBBA COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR and Tyler DEAN IBBA DIRECTOR OF SHOWS AND Youth PROGRAMS, Brangus Publications editor
time, the public loves to eat beef and it is consumed all around the world. Keys stressed the importance for operations to understand one another within the cattle industry. He touched on the topics of environment, antibiotics, farmers markets, the urban and rural divide and politicians. Following the luncheon, Friday’s schedule included a Board of Directors meeting and the evening concluded with a Country Hoedown. Live music by The Cedar Creek Ramblers provided fun and entertainment for all that evening. A large crowd gathered on Saturday, August 22, 2015, at the Town Creek Farm Pavilion for the Cattleman’s Field Day. Participants in attendance enjoyed coffee and donuts while they registered and mingled with fellow cattlemen and cattlewomen. After a brief welcome from Town Creek Farm’s Owner, Milton Sundbeck, Dr. Tommy Perkins took the microphone for a quick introduction of guests, board members and staff, and welcomed everyone to an exciting event. John McKnight of Searcy, Arkansas, assumed the lead for the remainder of the day serving as guide and moderator for each session throughout the day. Following the welcomes and introductions, participants
Membership headed to Town Creek Farm’s working facilities to view Brangus and Ultrablack bulls along with some Cow Creek Ranch Commercial Females. Federico Maisonnave talked the Town Creek Bulls along with breeding strategies and goals of the Town Creek Farm Program. The 18-month old and coming 2-year old bulls exemplified those goals of being moderate framed, thick made cattle that will be able to thrive on forage. Jeff Reznicek of Reznicek Ranch and Cow Creek Ranch spoke about the females on display. The group of commercial females highlighted their program of producing attractive, functional females that will work in a forage-based system with minimal external inputs. Customers have a long history of demanding these females through both the Cow Creek Ranch and Town Creek Farm Sales. Joy Reznicek wrapped up the session by providing an overview of the Cow Creek Ranch and its history, its current state, and the goals for the next few years and how those things are fitting into the Town Creek Farm program. Participants then loaded onto wagons for a trip out to the pastures to view some test plots where different weed management tactics have been applied. David Rich of Dow AgriSciences led the group in a great session that included not only weed identification but also looking at the test plots and seeing the differences in success that different chemicals had on managing the various types of weeds in the grazing pasture. Another wagon ride took participants back to the Town Creek Pavilion for some cold water, along with a Herd Biosecurity
Presentation from Dr. Jim Brett of Mississippi State University. Dr. Brett talked herd health strategies along with some nutrition and a highly active question and answer session. Perhaps the most sought after session followed with a Town Creek Farm Burger Lunch! Participants enjoyed a great lunch and interacted with fellow cattlemen and women. Joy Reznicek took the opportunity as President of Town Creek Farm to introduce all the staff that make things run smoothly. A panel discussion focused on “What You Wanna Give – From Steaks to Bulls” followed. John McKnight introduced each of the panelists, Cliff Coddington, General Manager of Longino Ranch in Florida; Sam Blakeney, Order Buyer from Mississippi; and Chandler Keys, Principal of the Keys Group in Maryland. Together these men encompassed multiple sectors of the beef industry and provided for a lively interaction with participants on numerous current issues facing the industry. Dr. Allen Williams of Starkville, Mississippi, had the daunting task of closing the day’s activities. But he brought humor and excitement as he talked about the Future of the Beef Cattle Industry. Dr. Williams highlighted trends in cattle numbers, beef costs and the importance forage will continue to have in our industry. As a final close out of the event, Joy Reznicek and Milton Sundbeck thanked the participants for their attendance and engagement in the day’s activities. BJ
u o y k n a h T
Thank you to all the breeders, ranches and businesses that contributed to the SBBA Donation Heifer for the IBBA Fall Conference and the SBBA Field Day.
Many thanks to Quail Creek Brangus & Parker Cook Brangus, who purchased the heifer for $8,000. Also to Clover Ranch, for purchasing the guitar for $2,300. A special thank you goes to Ray Johnston for his donation of the 2015 SBBA Donation Heifer and to Roger and Janet Greuel for donating the guitar! Additional thanks to Town Creek Farm for hosting this great event!
Addison Brangus Farms AMS Genetics, LLC Blackwater Cattle Co, LLC Carl Boone Char-No Farm Clarence Tays Clover Ranch Cullman Stockyard
DS Brangus Doug & Belinda Cheney Doug Williams EC Farms Farris Ranching Co Galloway Brangus Farms J Bar M Brangus Jeff Thomas
Joel Johnson Justin Jackson L & W Cattle Co Lakin Oakley McCreary Farms Parker Cook Brangus Persimmon Creek Brangus Quail Creek Brangus
Ray Johnston Robert Yates Ranch Robert & Janet Greuel Salacoa Valley Farms Stephen Smith Stinson Brangus The Oaks Farm, LLC Tom Dukes
Brangus Journal
October 2015 | 57
Membership Friends We Will Miss
D
Don T. Jobes, Jr. 1928 - 2015
on T. Jobes, Jr., age 86, passed away on August 15, 2015 in Houston, Texas. He was born in Rocksprings, Texas to Don Temple Jobes, Sr. and Frances Marie Goodwin. As a young man he worked on ranches in West Texas where he developed his love for cattle and agriculture. He continued his love for the livestock industry in high school where he was active in the FFA and 4-H programs in Alpine, Texas. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Sul Ross University in 1953 and received his master’s in Agricultural Education at Sam Houston State Teachers College in 1954. He did post-graduate work at Texas A & M University. Don taught vocational agriculture at Cypress-Fairbanks High School for nine years before joining the Texas Education Agency in Austin, Texas where he supervised agriculture teachers across the state. In 1956, he was named the Executive Secretary for the state association of Future Farmers of America. Don also served as Livestock Superintendent for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo during this time. On January 1, 1967 Don joined the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo as Assistant General Manager where he served for 31 years. Don retired to his J7 Ranch near East Bernard, Texas in 1998 where he raised registered Red Brangus cattle. He produced both show and commercial Red Brangus cattle and was largely responsible for introducing the International Red Brangus Show to Houston. In 2014, the International Red Brangus Breeders (IRBBA) honored him with the Lifetime Achievement Award. He is survived by his loving wife of 21 years, Mary Helen Jobes; daughter, Carrie Jobes Hitchcock and her husband Bob; son, Casey Jobes and wife Debra; daughter, Julie Ray Dunn; son, Robert Lee Dunn Jr. and his wife Rhonda; seven granddaughters, two grandsons, and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his two half-sisters, and several nieces and nephews. Don was preceded in death by his brother, Bobby Jack Jobes and his parents. “He was quite a cowboy!” 58 | October 2015
Brangus Journal
Marcos Borges III April 18, 2003 - August 15, 2015
M
arcos Borges III, age 12, passed away on August 15, 2015 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. He is the son Marcos and Adriana Borges of OB and MBJ Ranches in Wharton, Texas, and brother to his beloved sister Stephanie Borges. Marcos was a vibrant, outgoing young man. He had a passion and talent for soccer, which his parents fostered wholeheartedly. Just this summer Marcos had been selected as a member for the National Soccer team. He excelled in academics and athletics at the highest levels, making his parents very proud. Burial was in Uberaba, Brazil in the Borges Family Cemetery. A memorial mass was held on September 20, 2015 at St. Roberts Catholic Church in El Campo, Texas. BJ
Memorials for both Don and Marcos have ben established. Please see page 56 for complete information.
Service Directory Lakin Oakley Auctioneer 7081 Highway 82 West DeKalb, Texas 75559 903/667-3251 Home 903/277-9610 Mobile
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Brangus Journal
October 2015 | 59
State Directory 1
2
13465 Brooklyn Rd. Evergreen, AL 36401
3
Alabama
4
1
Sean Parker, President
3
4
1
2
1
2
California Arkansas Arizona
2
2 1
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 Kelsey Jackson • OfficE maNagER • (870) 668-3414 www.chimneyrockcattle.com
1
Brangus • angus • Ultrablacks
1
Your Source for Brangus, Angus and Ultrablack Genetics in the West.
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
To place your ad in the State Directory, contact Melanie at 979.255.3343 or Kyle at 254.371.9388 60 | October 2015
Brangus Journal
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
October 2015 | 61
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
62 | October 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
1
1
2
3
4
4
1 2
Tennessee
1
To place your ad in the State Directory,contact: Melanie at 979.255.3343 or Kyle at 254.371.9388
Oklahoma
3
1
To place your ad in the State Directory, contact Melanie at 979.255.3343 or Kyle at 254.371.9388
Brangus Journal
October 2015 | 63
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
24
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
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Mound Creek Ranch
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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
64 | October 2015
Brangus Journal
1415 E. OSR Bryan, TX 77808 www.circlexbrangus.com
State Directory 13
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Randy Schmidt • 903-278-7777 91 CR 2308 • Texarkana, TX 75503
To place your ad in the State Directory, contact Melanie at 979.255.3343 or Kyle at 254.371.9388
Brangus Journal
October 2015 | 65
Upcoming Events October 2015
December 2015
Space Deadline for November Brangus Journal
5
10
CX Advantage Sale :: Weimar, TX
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10
Brinks Brangus at Westall Ranch Annual Production Sale :: Arabela, NM
10
Big D Ranch Annual Brangus/Ultrablack Bull Plus Commercial Female Sale :: Center Ridge, AR
10
Catttle Country Commercial Female Sale :: Brighton, FL
16
Little Creek Farms and Friends - W.E.T. Farms and Sabal Ridge 8th Annual Bull Sale :: Okeechobee, FL
17
Doguetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Diamond D Ranch Sale :: Poteet, TX
17
Town Creek Farm Sale :: West Point, MS
24
Brangus National Show of Merit :: Shreveport, LA
24
Oak Creek Farms Sale :: Chappell Hill, TX
24
Miller Brangus Sale :: Waynesboro, TN
30
The Oaks and Genetic Partners Proven Performance Female Sale :: Newnan, GA
31
The Oaks and Genetic Partners Proven Performance Bull Sale :: Newnan, GA
31
Yon Family Farms Fall Bull and Female Sale :: Ridge Spring, SC
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November 2015
GeneTrust at Chimney Rock Sale :: Concord, AR
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The Branch Ranch Bull & Female Sale :: Mansfield, LA
10
Space Deadline for December Brangus Journal
14
Hill Country Brangus Breeders Sale :: San Angelo, TX
14
Blackwater Cattle Company Sale :: Lake Park, GA
14
Oklahoma Brangus Breeders Sale :: McAlester, OK
15
Fort Worth Regional Brangus Show Entry Deadline
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
Alabama Brangus Breeders Bull Sale :: Uniontown, AL Space Deadline for January Brangus Journal
January 2016
8
Space Deadline for Fall Frontline Beef Producer
18
Fort Worth Regional Brangus Show :: Fort Worth, TX
Sales and Events in bold are advertised in this issue.
To get your sale added for 2016, contact tyler or jessica today!
For the most current listing of upcoming events visit
gobrangus.com/calendar 66 | October 2015
Brangus Journal
Total Commitment
TOWN CREEK FARM WEST POINT, MISSISSIPPI
Since 1993
Saturday, October 17, 2015 • 12 noon
160 TOWN CREEK FARM BULLS
BRANGUS LOT 11, 4329A SELLS. YEAR MARBLING SCORE: 4.92%.
Brangus and Ultrablack Bulls. Entire 2 year-old calf crop sells. No bulls have been sold from this crop of bulls. Powerful, practical, functional bulls developed on a high roughage forage-based ration. Bulls guaranteed reproductively sound. Largely Cow Creek Ranch based genetics.
260 COMMERCIAL BRANGUS, ULTRABLACK AND BLACK BALDIE BRED HEIFERS
Multi-generation genetically-tracked heifers sired by Cow Creek Ranch bulls and bred back to Cow Creek Ranch and Town Creek Farm bulls.
BRANGUS LOT 20, 067A2 SELLS. YEAR SCROTAL: 42 CM.
BRANGUS LOT 100, 779B2 SELLS.YEAR REA/CWT: 1.18 SQ. IN.
BRANGUS LOT 125, 3932B SELLS. YEAR REA/CWT: 1.22 SQ. IN.
BRANGUS LOT 101, 007B SELLS. YEAR REA/CWT: 1.25 SQ. IN.
BRANGUS LOT 154, 170B SELLS. YEAR REA/CWT: 1.28 SQ. IN.
THESE HEIFERS SELL FROM REZNICEK RANCH, ALABAMA.
■ Bulls developed on high roughage, forage-based, low energy ration to ensure longevity and reliable travel. ■ Grow-Safe System used to identify most efficient feed and forage animals. ■ Expansive herd health program. Annual whole herd Johnes testing. Bulls sell Trich tested, Johnes free (bulls & dams Johnes free), BVD-PI tested. ■ Fertility. We are committed to proving genetics that are functional and fertile. Heifers must calve as two-year olds. ■ Large selection of user-friendly, high maternal, low birth weight bulls to produce valuable heifers. ■ Slick haired, heat and humidity tolerant bulls. Guaranteed reproductively sound.
Quality Assurance always comes first. Total Commitment
Since 1993
Town Creek Farm
Milton Sundbeck, Owner Office 662.494.5944 • 32476 Hwy. 50 East, West Point, Mississippi 39773 Joy Reznicek 205.399.0221 • Joy@TownCreekFarm.com Ron Flake 662.509.2233 • Ron@TownCreekFarm.com www.TownCreekFarm.com
Call, email or go to our website for a 2015 Sale Catalog.
BRANGUS LOT 15, 460A2 SELLS.
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October 2015 | 67
Advertisers Index Am Rich Ranch........................................................................................63 Blackwater Cattle Co...............................................................12, 13, 61 Brinks Brangus @ Westall Ranches, LLC.................................6, 7, 62 Burke Brangus Farm..............................................................................61 Bushley Creek Cattle Company.........................................................62 Cain Cattle Company............................................................................38 Calyx Star Ranch.....................................................................................62 Carter Brangus.........................................................................................60 Cavender Ranches............................................................20, 28, 29, 64 Char-No Farm...........................................................................................61 Chimney Rock Cattle Co........................................................18, 19, 60 Circle X Land & Cattle Co............................................................ IFC, 64 Clover Ranch.....................................................................................37, 60 Cox Excalibur............................................................................................64 Cross N Farm............................................................................................62 Diamond K Ranch...................................................................................65 Dillard Land & Cattle Ltd......................................................................64 Doak Lambert..........................................................................................59 Doguet’s Diamond D Ranch....................................................... 64, BC Don Thomas & Sons...............................................................................62 Double Creek Brangus Ranch............................................................65 Double W Ranch............................................................................ 62, IBC Draggin’ M Ranch.............................................................................. 1, 60 E 3 Ranch...................................................................................................64 El Rancho Espanol de Cuyama..........................................................60 Elgin Breeding Service..........................................................................59 Farris Ranching Company...................................................................64 Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo..................................................17 Garry Clem Brangus...............................................................................65 Genesis Ranch.........................................................................................64 GeneTrust............................................................. 18, 19, 20, 28, 29, IBC Greuel Family Brangus..........................................................................61 Hardee Farms...........................................................................................61 Heart of Alabama Bull Sale.................................................................45 Hill Country Brangus Breeders Association..................................17 Indian Nations Fall Brangus Sale.......................................................47 JLS International.....................................................................................64 Johnston Farms Brangus.....................................................................60 K&R Broken Bar Ranch..........................................................................63 Lack-Morrison Brangus........................................................................62
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Brangus Journal
Lake Majestik...........................................................................................39 Lakeside Brangus.............................................................................36, 61 Lakin Oakley.............................................................................................59 Lingg Brangus..........................................................................................64 Little Creek Farms...................................................................................61 Miller Brangus...................................................................................41, 63 MO Brangus..............................................................................................61 Mound Creek Ranches..........................................................................64 Multimin....................................................................................................43 Neogen GeneSeek.................................................................................31 Oak Creek Farms.....................................................................................11 Oklahoma Brangus Breeders..............................................................47 Pennridge Ranch....................................................................................65 Perry Ranch...............................................................................................63 Quail Creek Brangus..............................................................................60 Red Bird Meadows Ranch....................................................................65 Ritchey Livestock....................................................................................10 Robbs Brangus........................................................................................60 Robert Yates Ranch LLC........................................................................63 Roop Cattle Co.........................................................................................65 Salacoa Valley Farms........................................................................ 9, 61 Santa Rosa Ranch.............................................................................. 3, 65 Schmidt Farms...........................................................................28, 29, 65 Shooting Star Ranch..............................................................................65 Southeast Brangus Breeders................................................45, 57, 60 Suhn Cattle Company.................................................................. 62, IBC T3 Brangus................................................................................................62 The Branch Ranch.................................................................................... 5 The Oaks Farms...............................33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 61 TJM Ranch..........................................................................................28, 29 Town Creek Farms..................................................................................67 Triple Crown Ranch................................................................................64 Triple JR Cattle Company.....................................................................65 Valley View Ranch...................................................................................62 Vineyard Cattle Co., Inc.........................................................................65 Vorel Farms...............................................................................................63 W.E.T. Farms..............................................................................................61 Wes Dotson..............................................................................................59 Wynne Ranch...........................................................................................61 Zottareli Ranches....................................................................................65
FOUNDATION
Brangus Journal
October 2015 | 69
............................................. SALE OF PROVEN PRODUCERS o cto b er 17 @ 1 p m, At t h e r a n c h n ea r Pot eet, T exas 2 80 p owe r fu l r e gi ster ed f em al es an d b u l l s sel l plus C omme r ci a l Fe m a le s | v i ew t h e c atal o g at w w w. am sc at tl e.c om
103B7 | Full brother to DDD One Source 103A4, 2014 Reserve International Champion Bull
DDD HERCULES 38B27
DDD MS BROOKLYN 38A18
DDD HERCULES 38B28
Mike and 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: Off: (830) 569-5836 Cell: (210) 269-3220 www.doguetranch.com
Marketing Superior Genetics.
Mark Cowan | markc@amscattle.com | 903-495-4522 Trey Kirkpatrick | treyk@amscattle.com | 979-324-5518 Richard Hood | richardh@amscattle.com | 979-224-6150 www.amscattle.com
www.amscattle.com
70 | October 2015
Brangus Journal
DDD MS NANCY 804S9, Full Sib to DDD Uppercuts Legacy 804X37