Illinois
Holstein Herald
Fall 2020
Illinois Holstein Herald
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2020 Summer Show Success Ms Atwood Lacey-ET EX-92
HM Grand IL Championship Show Will be doing IVF this Fall Atwood x EX-92 x EX-95 Licorice
Uber-Haven Dfint Chrome-Red EX-92
Res. All-American R&W Jr. 3-Yr-Old 2019 2x Grand Champion IL Championship Show Watch for her at the North American Show Defiant x VG-88 Absolute x EX-90 Gold Chris Owned with Brett Richter
Andy & Tyler Carter 211 IL Route 127 · Greenville, IL 62246 618.664.1825 (Andy) · 618.267.1825 (Tyler) tcarter908@yahoo.com
Thanks to everyone that helped make this amazing summer show success possible! Exciting Sale Announcement Carters-Corner WH Presley VG-88-3Y Res. Int. Champion IL Championship Show She Sells Sept. 24th at the Oklahoma State Sale
ILLINOIS CHAMPIONSHIP OPEN SHOW JULY 10, 2020 JUDGE: RYAN KROHLOW, WI Grand & Sr. Champion: Uber-Haven Dfint Chrome-Red, Tyler Carter & Brett Richter, Greenville Res. Grand, Res. Sr. Champion & Champion Bred & Owned: Luck-E Awesome AdventureET, Dennis R. Engel, Hampshire HM Grand & HM Sr. Champion: Ms Atwood Lacey, Tyler Carter, Greenville Int. Champion: Luck-E Doc Azacaboom-ET, Matt Engel, Hampshire Res. Int. Champion: Carters-Corner WH Presley, Tyler Carter, Greenville HM Int. Champion: Schluter Summer Lee-Red-ET, Tyler Carter & Brett Richter, Greenville Junior Champion & Junior Champion B&O: Schluter Unstp Aspen-Red-ET, Olivia Schluter, Red Bud Res. Junior Champion & Res. Junior Champion B&O: Bluff-Ridge D Dreamsickle, Kelly O’Connor, Arrowsmith HM Junior Champion: Vailwood Dempsey Siri , Meyer & Saathoff, Manteno Total Performance Award: Ludwigs-DG Goldwyn Emmy-ET, Justin Powell,Tremont Premier Breeder & Premier Exhibitor: Luck-E Holsteins Spring Heifer Calf (19) 1. Wendy-Oaks Crimsonrose-Red, Gage Wendling, Altamont 2. RBR-FRM Altitude Dixie-Red, Addison & Jacob Raber, Gridley 3. Koll-Kreek S-Kick Gummybear, Kasey Clanton & Mackenzie Krausz, Mulberry Grove 4. Carters-Corner Luna-Red-ET, Tyler Carter, Greenville 5. Bri-Mel-Acres Abigail, Blake Meyer & Kylie & Cole Saathoff, Manteno Page 2
Winter Heifer Calf (18) 1. Apple-Pts Alameda-Red-ET, Apple Partners, LLC, Lanark 2. Lakeshore Winters Eve, Taylor, Layla & Kaylyn Powell, Tremont 3. Ms Koll-Kreek Bbee Dreaming, Mackenzie Krausz, Mulberry Grove 4. R-Homestead Denver Lunie, Noelle & Brenley Clementz , Landon & Kaylee Hilgendorf, Nokomis 5. Thorman Altitude Sadie-Red, Jordan Thorman, Macomb
Fall Heifer Calf (25) 1. Kimball-Way Blake Sandy-ET, Suton Paulson, Rockford 2. Carters-Corner U Paisley-ET, Tyler Carter, Greenville 3. Lakeshore Cherry Pie-ET, Bryce Cullen, Tremont 4. Quietcove Rasberry-ET, Dylan Reed, Greenville 5. Ms Unix Rainey, Tyler Carter & Dylan Reed, Greenville Summer Yearling Heifer (11) 1. B-J-Grove Unix Cherokee, Kasey Clanton, Mulberry Grove 2. Apple-Pts Cirio Anna-Red-ET, Apple Partners, LLC, Lanark 3. Schluter Altitude Ava-ET, Olivia Schluter & Kasey Clanton, Mulberry Grove 4. Opsal Ammo Caleesi, Shana & Drew Lueking, Centralia 5. Golden-Oaks Crush Tesla-ET, Zach Paul, Worden Spring Yearling Heifer (6) 1. Lakeshore Tatoo Elixir, Taylor, Layla & Kaylyn Powell, Tremont 2. Miss Baru, John Erbsen & Colganados Genetics, Lanark 3. Luck-E Doc Azaza-ET, Blake Engel, Hampshire 4. B-J-Grove Fever Jugs, Kasey Clanton, Mulberry Grove 5. R-Homestead Jacby Deejay-ET, Landon Hilgendorf, Nokomis continued on page 10 Fall 2020
FROM THE PRESIDENT Well folks, if you think time drags on at a snail’s pace, you should consider running for this office. I would almost swear that Stephanie asks me to write a column about every two weeks! So, here I sit again, with absolutely nothing on my mind. I received a few nice compliments on my last column. I did, however, get chastised a bit from one prominent gentleman. He commented that I didn’t even mention Illinois Holstein activities at all. I won’t mention any names, but his name does kinda rhyme with “Lloyd Waffelgerber.” So, this time, I will try to update you on a few Illinois Holstein Association activities. First of all, I need to tell you that the fall picnic, as well as our state convention in early February, have been canceled due to ongoing concerns over COVID-19. We have found it extremely hard, if not downright impossible, to find a host for either event. This is totally understandable. After all, who wants to go to all of the effort to host a picnic that is sure to draw a smaller-than-normal crowd? And how can you start planning to host a convention when nobody knows what the hotel’s restrictions will be 6 months down the road? So, we are tentatively planning on holding our annual meeting during the January committee meetings. Please stay tuned for more on that. It sure was great to see so many people at this year’s Illinois Holstein Show!! Cattle numbers were even up a bit. I have been involved to varying degrees with the planning of most of these shows over the last 30 years, and it is never a walk in the park, but this year was especially challenging due to the Coronavirus. I would like to recognize all of the volunteers (they are VOLUNTEERS, folks. This gets forgotten occasionally). Show chairman Amy Raber and her co-chair Todd Irwin had their work cut out for them this year, but you know what? They pulled it off!! Carol Jones, Sarah Lenkaitis and Stephanie Hammerly do so much of the behind-the-scenes bookkeeping that the rest of us don’t even know about, and they do it seamlessly. Ron and Boyd Schaufelberger alternate between duties as announcer and sanitation engineer, and they both think that they are better at what they do than their sibling is, and one of them is RIGHT!! Jason Oertel does a fabulous job as ringman. Not just a decent job, a FABULOUS job!! Gary Janssen, Tim Ewing and Ed Smith are key to getting the cattle checked into the catalog, as well as getting them into the ring. Although technically, Ed isn’t a volunteer. He is well-paid via all of the cookies he “borrows” from the Irwindale table in the barn. We even broke in a newcomer as card-taker this year, Dr. Derek Nolan. The young fella shows considerable promise! I also can’t forget the many wonderful volunteers who helped set up and tear down gates before and after the show. Seriously, a big THANK YOU to each and every one of you!! I would be remiss if I didn’t congratulate our THREE award-winning Distinguished Junior Members: Connor Erbsen, Jacob Raber and Nevin Erbsen. Next time you see these gentlemen, take time to introduce yourself to them. They don’t come any better than these three! And I can’t end this column without mentioning our new Illinois Holstein Dutchess, Allyson Aves. You talk about a spunky, fun, happy-go-lucky young lady!! That’s Allyson! Just a word of caution though, if the juniors are in the midst of a fundraiser, and you see Allyson approaching, you may want to RUN. Otherwise, she is GOING TO convince you to donate, guaranteed. That girl could sell a screen door to a submarine captain! I’ll leave you with this: Be humble. You could be wrong.
Illinois Holstein Herald
Steve Irwin
DUTCHESS DOMAIN Hello Illinois Holstein Association! It is an honor to be able to serve this year as your Illinois Holstein Dutchess! While I have not had the opportunity to attend many of the usual events due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I hope the current guidelines soon change in order to allow us the opportunity to meet once again. This pandemic has paused operation of many industries throughout the world, but across dairy production and the Holstein Association we only continue to grow, adapt, and change with the demands of the consumer and ever changing conditions of the world. In the six months since the pandemic started, the Holstein Association has enhanced the Holstein Marketplace Sires program, introduced HOLSim, added many new Holstein shows to replace those that were canceled, held virtual meetings, developed online junior judging contests, and created virtual presentations and announcements on What’s Up Holstein Association USA. While these may seem to be small feats, it shows the undeniable adaptability and strength of our Association and dairy production through hard times and good. So to all the producers, breeders, junior members, and showmen out there; keep moving forward, growing, and learning. I hope we are able to meet again soon, but until then, I hope you all have a safe harvest season, as well as healthy herds and families. Respectfully,
Allyson Aves
NATIONAL UPDATES Having gone through some challenging months since COVID-19, there are some positive things happening at Holstein Association USA. It was evident traveling to the Midwest Fall National Show. The bleachers were full of spectators and the barns overflowing with high quality show animals. Participation was very high, over 400 head of cattle walked the show ring. Congratulations to all. On the business side of things, classification in 2020 is up from a year ago at this time. So far, 123,594 animals have been classified. Also ATA has been on the rise. Processed records surpassed 1,000,000 cows sampled in July. That is an increase of over 9,000 cows from a month ago. If you’re not processing your DHIA records with ATA please consider the change. You will be seeing some new faces at Holstein USA, Emily Annexstad (former Princess Kay of the Milky Way), as Marketing Communications Manager, Dr. Jeffrey Bewley, Dairy Analytics and Innovation Scientist, and also Michael McCaffrey, as Regional Sales Representative. Keep safe during harvest and stay positive. Your National Directors, Corey Geiger, President Jonathan Lamb, Vice President Dale Drendel Spencer Hackett Robert Webb
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ILLINOIS HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION Officers
Directors - Term Expires 2021
President.................................................................................................................. Steve Irwin 9400 Meridian Rd., Beason, IL 62512; 217/871-7738; samirwin@itsintheair.net Vice-President................................................................................ Herb Schmiedeskamp 2328 N. 1700th St., Camp Point, IL 62320; 217/242-3920; sunhi7777@yahoo.com Treasurer................................................................................................................. Carol Jones 116 W 10th St., Gridley, IL 61744; 815/848-1500; skipcarolj@gmail.com Secretary..........................................................................................................Sarah Lenkaitis 6N707 Corron Rd., St. Charles, IL 60175; 920/517-1942; ilholsteinsecretary@gmail.com
Clinton .................................................................. Aaron Heinzmann, Carlyle Clinton .............................................................................Dylan Reed, Vandalia Effingham ............................................................ Kevin Wendling, Altamont Heart of Illinois .....................................................Sarah Butler, Arrowsmith McHenry-Lake ........................................... Ethan Heinzmann, Wauconda McHenry-Lake ............................................. David Shanks, Garden Prairie Mississippi Valley ....................................................... Jim Schluter, Red Bud Southern ...................................................... Norbert Hasheider, Okawville
Executive Members
618/781-7994 217/254-5397 217/240-6196 309/824-8621 847/224-7861 815/790-8406 217/898-5707 618/243-6312
Directors - Term Expires 2022
John Erbsen ............................................................................................................. Northwest 10974 Benson Rd., Lanark, IL 61046; 815/275-4990; johnerbsen@aeroinc.net Aaron Heinzmann..........................................................................................................Clinton 17645 Coles Creek Rd., Carlyle, IL 62231; 618/781-7994; aaronheinzmann@gmail.com Jerry Smith ................................................................................................................ Northwest 9808 Farm School Rd., Davis, IL 61019; 815/865-5683; clearfield53@hotmail.com Kevin Wendling.........................................................................................................Effingham 13500 N. 400th St., Altamont, IL 62411; 217/240-6196; kjholsteins@altamont.net Past President - Ed Smith............................................................................ McHenry-Lake 43386 N. Scott St., Antioch, IL 60002; 847/372-0602; ed.pat@att.net
Public Relations Coordinator Stephanie Hammerly
Boone-Winnebago ........................................... Aaron Mitchell, Winnebago Gateway .....................................................Lucas Clanton, Mulberry Grove Gateway ................................................................... Leon Dorsey, Greenville Mississippi Valley .............................Herb Schmiedeskamp, Camp Point Northwest ....................................................................... John Erbsen, Lanark Northwest ............................................................................Jerry Smith, Davis Tri-County .............................................................................. Ray Hess, Genoa
Dale Drendel 15N057 Walker Road, Hampshire, IL 60140 · 815/766-0326 · ddrendel@fvi.net
815/585-2785 618/322-3523 618/292-9105 217/242-3920 815/275-4990 815/865-5683 815/751-3301
Directors - Term Expires 2023 Effingham ...................................................................... Toby Probst, Wheeler 217/925-5459 Heart of Illinois .............................................................. Carol Jones, Gridley 815/848-1500 Tri-County ..................................................................Richard Meier, Beecher 708/946-6417
PO Box 813, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965 · 608/732-2757 · briardesigns@gmail.com
Holstein Association USA Director
Junior Officers Clinton ................................................................... Briley Lenkaitis, Eldorado 630/561-9514 Heart of Illinois ..............................................................Jacob Raber, Gridley 815/867-0694
Holstein Association USA Field Representative Tim Ewing 417/818-6455 (MILK) · tewing@holstein.com
ADVERTISERS B-J-Grove BLM Fall Dairy Bluff-Ridge Bri-Mel Acres Char-La-Don Carter’s Corner Clearfield Farm Cross-Wake Dairy Dair-E-Land Holsteins DoDel Holsteins Edler Farm Flat-Net Dairy Glendell H. Farms, Ltd. Golden Oaks Farm
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Heinz-Hope Farm Holbric Holsteins Hunter Haven Farms, Inc. Irwindale Holsteins K-J Holsteins Kaco-Vu Kochnook Farm Koester Dairy Laeschway Dairy Lenkaitis Holsteins Luck-E Holsteins Lucky-King Holsteins Lyonden Farm Mackinson Dairy Farm
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FEATURES Calendar..........................................................................................................................5 District Show Report..................................................................................................5 Dutchess Domain........................................................................................................3 From the President.....................................................................................................3 Illinois Championship Show....................................................................... 2,10-11 Junior Journeys............................................................................................................5 Letter to the Editor......................................................................................................5 National Board Update..............................................................................................3 National YDJM Finalists.........................................................................................8-9
Macomber Farm Meier Meadows Mil-R-Mor Mitchell’s Holsteins O-Bee Holsteins Oertel Farms, Inc. Pleasantland Farm Probstland Dairy R-Homestead Farm Ravendale Farm Red Carpet Holsteins Rolling Lawns Farms Schaufine Farms Select Sires
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Smith, Ed Sunshine Genetics Thorman Dairy Farm Von-View Dairy Farm Wild Genetics/Triple-Hil Sires Will-Can-Do Holsteins Winter Dairy Farm Zehrview Holsteins
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ON THE COVER Featured on the cover of this issue are the 2020 Illinois Holstein Dutchess and Little Miss Holstein contestants (top), Clearfield Farm grandkids, Lila Sloan and Macklen Litow in Pee-Wee Showmanship at the Illinois Championship Junior Holstein Show (middle), and National DJM finalist Connor Erbsen and National YDJM finalists Jacob Raber and Nevin Erbsen (bottom). Congratulations on all of your accomplishments this year!
Volume 82, Number 3
Fall 2020
Illinois Holstein Herald is published four times a year (Spring, Summer, Fall & Winter) by the Illinois Holstein Association. Subscriptions for members are included as part of the annual membership dues; $20 per year for non-members. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Illinois Holstein Herald, Stephanie Hammerly, PO Box 813, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965. This issue of the Illinois Holstein Herald was sent to the printer September 14, 2020
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Fall 2020
JUNIOR JOURNEYS
Visit Us Online! illinoisholsteins.com facebook.com/IllinoisHolsteins facebook.com/IllinoisJuniorHolsteinAssociation
CALENDAR 11/15 Winter Herald Advertising Deadline State Holstein Picnic and Senior Convention have been canceled *additional event information available at: www.illinoisholsteins.com
LETTER TO THE EDITOR Illinois Holstein Association Officers, Board of Directors and Members, Thank you for dedicating the 2020 Championship Show to me. I was very surprised and humbled by this honor. The show is something I look forward to each year! I am convinced that my first years of attending the show fueled my passion for Registered Holsteins and involvement in the industry. Thank you to all who have made this show possible over the years from the committee chairs to volunteers to judges, exhibitors, and spectators. It takes the cooperation of everyone to make it the successful event it is. With kind regards and thanks, Paula Bovre
DISTRICT SHOW REPORT Southern Illinois June 27, 2020 • Greenville • Judge: Steve Irwin, Beason • 128 Shown Grand Champion (Open & Jr): Dodel Atlantic Jayden, Jackson Brammeier, Carlyle Res. Grand Champion: Bri-Mel-Acres Ariel, Blake Meyer, Manteno Res. Grand Champion (Jr): Oakfield Arch Dorrie-ET, Logan Hilgendorf, Nokomis Junior Champion (Open & Jr): Schluter Unstp Aspen-Red, Olivia Schluter, Red Bud Res. Junior Champion: Silverview-Lane Sky-Red, Brett Woker, Greenville Res. Junior Champion (Jr): Thorman Altitude Sadie-Red, Jordan Thorman, Macomb Senior Showmanship: Ashley Hartman & Jordan Thorman Intermediate Showmanship: Noelle Clementz & Jacob Raber Junior Showmanship: Kaylee Hilgendorf & Drew Lueking Premier Breeder & Exhibitor: K-J Holsteins, Altamont
2020-2021 IJHA OFFICERS L-R: Jacob Raber, VP; Magen Busker, Reporter; Allyson Aves, Secretary; Addie Raber, Treasurer; Briley Lenkaitis, President Adult Advisors: Al Lenkaitis Phone: 630-561-9514 Amy Raber Phone: 815-867-0694 Angela Kiefer-Paul Phone: 618-781-7751 ILLINOIS JUNIOR HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION MEETING The July 8, 2020 meeting of the Illinois Junior Holstein Association in Bloomington was called to order at 4:00pm by President Briley Lenkaitis. Treasurers report was given by Addie Raber. Motion to approve the treasurer’s report was made by Zach Paul and seconded by Jeff Kern. Motion carried. Secretary’s report was given by Allyson Aves. Motion to approve minutes as read was made by Lila Sloan and seconded by Nevin Erbsen. Motion carried. Reporter Megan Busker reminded members to send her pictures from throughout the year. Approved fundraisers for the year are the Spring Thing 50/50 raffle, embryo shuffle, and Ropp cheese. Motion to approve the presented fundraisers was made by Zach Paul and seconded by Jeff Kern. It was proposed to raise dues with the added cost going directly to the Junior Association. It was recognized that the added cost may be hard for big families, so there will be a discount for the more kids enrolled. Motion to present this to the Senior Board was made by Gage Wendling and seconded by Jeff Kern. State show judges for next year were discussed. Hope Engel moved to eliminate the bottom two judges. Addy Barron seconded. Motion carried. Samantha Fairbanks was first choice, Chris McCullough was second, and Mike Duckett was third. Nevin Erbsen moved to approve the judges. Lila Sloan seconded. Motion carried. Lila Sloan moved to adjourn meeting. Zach Paul seconded. Motion passed. The meeting adjourned at 4:19pm. Respectfully submitted, Allyson Aves, IJHA Secretary
Make sure to check the Illinois Holstein website and Facebook pages for up-to-date information on all Junior activities!
Wild Genetics Ed Smith
Animal Analysis Associate 43386 N Scott Street, Antioch, IL 60002 Phone: 847-395-5976 Cell: 847-372-0602 Email: ed.pat@att.net www.aAaWeeks.com Illinois Holstein Herald
Kris Wild 608-214-3259 Page 5
BREEDER ADS
Andy & Tyler Carter 211 IL Route 127 Greenville, IL 62246 618-664-1825 (Andy) • 618-267-1825 (Tyler) Email: tcarter908@yahoo.com
Nelson & Bonnie Heinzmann 618.226.3578 Aaron, Jenn, Lane, Brady & Samantha 618.781.7994
1099 E. Angle Road Dakota, IL 61018 815.821.3789 Dan 815.821.3344 Kyle 815.563.4511 Home Dan & Amber, Lance & Cynthia, Kyle and Brent
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The Lenkaitis Family 6N411 Corron Road, St. Charles, IL 60175 lenkaitis.holsteins@gmail.com - www.lenkaitisholsteins.com
Fall 2020
PROBSTLAND DAIRY
Joe & Inis Probst Toby, Margie, Holly, Katie, Marcus, Macy & Renee Phil, Angie, Megan, Lauren, Austin & Dalton 2817 E 1600th Ave, Wheeler, IL
217-925-5300
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R-HOMESTEAD HOLSTEINS
20244 N. 24th Ave. Nokomis, IL (217)563-2846 David & Lenore Ruppert Marc, Lora, Landon, Kaylee & Logan Hilgendorf
Connie Turley 618.664.3240
www.rollinglawnsfarm.com
Michael & Jennifer Turley 314.308.1005
LYONDEN FARM
The Butler Family
35821 E 900 N Rd., Arrowsmith, IL David: 309-824-2131 Christie: 815-530-0331 Sarah: 309-824-8621
6447 Fitzgerald Rd. Rockford, IL 61102 lyondenk@comcast.net Kevin & Palma Lyons (815)979-2370 Brian & Lori (815)962-0001 Chris & Shalene (920)563-1082 Dan & Kelly (260)359-1780
Place your Breeder Ad HERE! Published 4x/year Contact: Stephanie Hammerly 608-732-2757 briardesigns@gmail.com
Illinois Holstein Herald
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Nevin Erbsen Selected as 2020 National Young Distinguished Junior Member Finalist My love of cows started before I was even able to walk! Dad would take my brother, Nathan, and me with him every morning and night to do chores at our family’s farm, Erbacres Holsteins. The time I spent watching and learning during those early years has led me to my place today on our dairy farm. I would follow the lead of my dad, uncles and grandmother. This type of hands-on training required me to be on my toes and observant each day. My parents, Carl and Becky, are both teachers, but my father still assists with the family farm. My older brother, Nathan, and I also spend time helping with the chores for 50 milk cows and working the 720 acres of cropland. Our family farm, Erbacres Holsteins, is managed by my grandmother, Pauline, and Uncles Kevin and John. On the farm, I help feed, milk, and do any other daily chores that need attention such as vaccinations and moving heifers. I help my Uncle Kevin with the milking, as well as cleaning and bedding the tie stall barn. In the evenings, I step up to help with the sanitizing and cleaning of the milk machines following the milking. Calf care and feeding chores are part of my daily responsibilities when my cousins are gone or have other obligations. I am also asked to take over the chores at my Uncle John’s farm, Erbacres II, when he is gone for his job. This has happened quite often this year since his son, Connor, is now attending college. I enjoy helping him with feeding his herd, cleaning and bedding pens, and health work like vaccinating or necessary treatments for the cattle. All of this has taught me a lot about responsibility and required me to develop a strong work ethic because I know my family is counting on me. I have learned that it is important for me to know the cattle and their pedigree as I have had to show sale selectors around when John has been unavailable. This fall I was an integral part of the harvest crew by running the grain cart and the wagon for about 500 acres of harvest. Once we were done with harvest, I could be found chiseling the ground and preparing it for future crops. In the spring, I ran anhydrous on the bean ground for the first time, and I also ran the field cultivator over about 300 acres of chiseled corn ground. Lastly, I have been more involved in powerwashing and equipment upkeep over the last few years, which has instilled in me the importance of preserving our equipment, and proper maintenance needed to keep the machines running. My Uncle John is a principal owner of the World Dairy Expo Champion, KHW Regiment Apple-Red-ET EX-96 4E DOM. Thus, he houses many of the offspring at his farm, Erbacres II. Many of these cattle are headed to sales on a regular basis, and John wants them Page 8
to be clipped regularly and broke to lead. I train many of the Apple offspring and other heifers at Erbacres II to lead properly. With his guidance and instruction, I have learned how to clip at a much higher level. I regularly help him and my cousin, Connor, when clipping the Apple Partners cattle or preparing our Erbacres show string for county, district, and state shows. I also help with body and udder clipping of all the cows in our herd for classification every 7 months. Fitting and clipping is something I really enjoy and keep working to improve. My uncles expect me to get fresh cows and heifers clipped off regularly to keep them comfortable. Another benefit of working with the Apple offspring has been the opportunity to meet more people in the industry and visit some of their dairies. I’ve found that I can learn a lot by observing how others manage their operations. My cousins and I take a string of 12 to 15 heifers to our county fair each year. For this show, ALL the clipping and preparation is in our hands. We work together to get the clipping done at home, then at the show we go over them again. On show days, we are all busy early in the morning. My main job on show days is to first wash the cattle with my cousin, Delana. The older boys are busy blowing up and setting toplines once they are dry. Delana and I handle feeding the heifers to fill them for the show. It takes all of us to have our animals ready for the show ring. I am also part of the setup crew for our district, state, and World Dairy Expo show strings. I help get the equipment and supplies in place prior to the cattle arriving at each show. This allows the cattle to come in and get acclimated right away. Watching lines and feeding hay regularly are two important tasks that I take seriously at the shows. One of my favorite jobs at the shows is prepping each animal before she heads to the ring. My time practicing in the show ring at the county fair and Holstein shows led me to be selected to represent my FFA Chapter at the Illinois State FFA Dairy Judging Contest as a STAR Discovery Dairy Handler. I was thrilled to be the 1st place winner and receive the State STAR Discovery Dairy Handler Award. I was also awarded the 1st place Intermediate Showmanship award at the 2018 and the 2019 Illinois Championship Junior Holstein Shows. In 2012, I made a “deal” with my Uncle John to purchase a partial interest in my first heifer, Ms Angel Ana-ET. Ana calved in well as a 2 year old, so we decided to consign her to the 2014 National Convention Sale in Dubuque, IA. She was purchased by Airosa Dairy in California where she has developed into an EX-92 cow. Ana’s daughter, Erbacres Miss Anali *RC EX-91, calved in well, too, and was
named Reserve Intermediate Champion at the 2016 Illinois Championship Junior Holstein Show. Anali’s daughter, Erbacres DB AnalouRed EX-90 is following in her footsteps, being named Intermediate Champion at the 2018 Illinois Championship Junior Holstein Show. Analou was not a show type heifer, but once she calved and put on an udder, her success began. Both Anali and Analou had very strong personalities as young heifers. It took a lot of time and patience for me to get them to relax and enjoy the showring experience. In doing so I learned to take my time with them and that practice makes perfect. My family says I have a special rapport with our cattle. Thus the cattle and I develop a certain level of respect for one another. My involvement in the Northwest Illinois Junior Holstein club as well as the Illinois Junior Holstein Association, 4-H and FFA has helped me develop my leadership skills and taught me the importance of teamwork. I look forward to more leadership roles as I become more involved in these organizations. I have worked with other Northwest Juniors to man our lunch stand at the Northwest Sizzler sale, which is a major fundraiser for our group. This year our junior group worked together to serve the meal for our Northwest Illinois Annual Meeting which the adults appreciated greatly. Dairy Bowl and Jeopardy practices as well as the competitions at the Illinois Junior Holstein Spring Thing have taught me a great deal while also allowing me to develop friendships with others throughout the state. Dairy judging is another activity I enjoy and am working to improve. I know the decision making skills gained through judging will be helpful throughout life. As a freshman in high school, I am not certain where my career path is headed, but I am certain I will remain in agriculture as that’s where my passion lies. My family has often referred to me as the “cow whisperer” since I seem to have a special touch with cattle. So, I think dairy cattle are in my blood and will play a key part in my future.
Fall 2020
Jacob Raber Selected as 2020 National Young Distinguished Junior Member Finalist How I have grown up with cows in my childhood is different than other kids. My family runs a grain operation focused on production agriculture, alongside with our show heifers. Holsteins have been a part of my life since I was three years old. This passion began with daily visits to a neighboring dairy farm to see all the cows and calves. My mom and her family come from a multi-generation dairy farm. She wanted my sister and I to have this same experience as she did. My journey started on the Zehrview Holstein farm. I grew up and showed with the Zehr family for eight years in pee-wee and 4-H shows. In 2014, my parents saw the dedication my sister and I had for the animals, and that is when they bought my first four Holsteins. It was a big step to go on my own. However, I am forever grateful to the Zehr family; they taught me the basics of raising and showing the heifers and cows that I own today. Furthermore, by helping them to do calf chores, I also learned skills of how to start a calf off on the right hoof! On our farm, the heifers and calves are solely dependent on me for feeding, watering and providing them adequate shelter. Since we do not milk, my cows are sent to other farms depending upon the breed (Holsteins to Mackinson Dairy and Jerseys to Kilgus Jerseys). My calves are housed at my home farm location. Being the caretaker of the calves, I do everything possible to ensure each calf is healthy and grows well. Feeding my calves includes milk replacer, fresh water, and a starter grain every day. The calves are fed milk three times a day (7a.m., 3 p.m. and 10 p.m) to maximize their growth potential. In addition, I check each hutch for manure to clean out and observe their health status. The cleanliness of pens is very important to keeping my animals healthy and growing. After feeding the calves, I head to the barn which is a half mile from home to start heifer chores. There we have many obstacles to work through to provide water, but I make it work because I love my animals. We do not have running water at the heifer facility, so I must haul water to the barn. From late spring to early fall, we fill up a 1500 gallon water tank at least once a week. This water is used to fill up water tanks and to rinse/wash the heifers. Upon the changing of the seasons, the water situation changes. Water is then hauled in a 65 gallon water tank in the ranger for the water pump and all hoses freeze which means no water. Heaters are put in the water tanks to keep the water from freezing. It is important for the animals to have the most amount of free choice water during the cold months as in the middle of the summer! Along with providing fresh water, chores always consist of feeding grain and hay, cleaning pens, and Illinois Holstein Herald
raking the barn. On school days, my mom does the heifer chores in the morning, but I am always responsible for the calf chores. During the show season, I have a preparation checklist to be completed after regular chores. Each morning I rinse the heifers to grow hair. Once a week, I wash the heifers to keep the black/red brilliant and the white blinding. I walk all the heifers for at least 15 to 30 minutes, so they lead well. Three times a week I travel to the other farms to lead and wash the milk cows to keep them used to the show routine. I take great pride in my showmanship capabilities. This extra work has paid off for I have earned numerous awards in showmanship. My goal is to win showmanship at World Dairy Expo. I’m proud to say that in 2019, I made it to the final round! When I first started my herd in 2014, with my mom’s guidance, I was already helping make the final breeding decision by looking at potential sire’s linear evaluation to correct the faults in my animals. Being the main decision maker on breeding, I take pride in my homebred herd. I’d rather not buy an animal, as it is expensive and unnecessary. My future goal is to continue having homebred animals win classes at national show levels. For me, this is very rewarding! Through the years, I have diligently worked on my fitting skills. My three man fitting team consists of my mom, sister, and myself. Together, we are the fitters for our string at all the shows we attend. I take pride in my ability to fit my animals for the Southern Spring National, World Dairy Expo, North American International Livestock Exposition, Illinois State Show and Fair, and some local shows. Being able to clip animals is a skill that is needed on every farm, show animals or not. I truly enjoy clipping the entire animal along with adding the finishing touch by carving out and sharpening our heifers over the topline. Also, blending the hair from behind the elbow down across the base of the barrel to give them a look of depth. My mom has been able to give me a lot of guidance over the years. By observing other fitters at larger shows has allowed me to see and practice new techniques. Our family has saved money by not hiring a fitter for shows. In turn, I have more money to use on my animals. Through the years, I have been very active in 4-H, FFA, and our state and national Holstein Associations. Within the Illinois Junior Holstein Association, we have many activities that go on throughout the spring and summer. In February, we have our Junior Holstein convention, which I compete in Dairy Quiz Bowl and Jeopardy. This is my second year on the planning committee for the convention. I was also elected to be the treasurer for a second term. This duty has me prepare
fundraising choices and facilitate them for our Junior Association. In July, we have our annual state Junior and Open show, which I have shown at several times. This past year I placed second in my division of Intermediate Showmanship. In August, we have the Junior and Open Holstein State Fair shows where I have attained several champion and showmanship awards since I was ten-yearsold. The annual 4-H Superior Young Dairy Producer Contest is also held at this same time. In 2018, I tied for first place with my sister and we were recognized for being the top finalists in the dairy evaluation section. This past year, I placed seventh amongst a competitive group of 4-H contestants. My 2019 FFA Dairy Cattle Evaluation CDE season ended with a bang! Our team won the title of Reserve National Champions. With this competition, I put my judging skills to their best use and used all the knowledge I have gained through studying for quiz bowl and jeopardy. The constant learning of new information allowed me to work with my FFA team on our team problem at the National FFA Contest. I have shown at many national shows across the country. In 2019, my bred and owned Holstein summer yearling was Junior Champion of the Southern Spring National Junior Show. A very special moment at the 2018 World Dairy Expo was when I won my first two medals in both the open and junior show. This past year, I was a finalist in the top group for the intermediate showmanship division. At the 2018 NAILE, two of my homebred heifers placed both first and second in the Grand National Junior Holstein Show. My life would be essentially repetitive and ordinary without my Holsteins. These wonderful animals have taken me places and instilled passion in my heart. Furthermore, I have gained a hard, disciplined work ethic while knowing the worth of well-earned money. The Holstein Association has helped me gain many friendships and opportunities. My future goal is to create a small nationally known herd that would include a cow with my prefix, RBR-FRM, that is scored Excellent. My plan to develop great new animals is by utilizing strong pedigrees. After high school graduation, I plan to major in Animal Nutrition at Oklahoma State University-Stillwater. Pursuing a career as a nutritionist would allow me to help others grow Holsteins like others have helped me along the way. My cows have created the person that I am today, and I hope one day that I can give back to the industry that gave me my life. Page 9
continued from page 2 Winter Yearling Heifer (6) 1. Schluter Unstp Aspen-Red-ET, Olivia Schluter, Red Bud 2. Bluff-Ridge D Dreamsickle, Kelly O’Connor, Arrowsmith 3. Carters-Corner TT Seven-ET, Tyler Carter, Greenville 4. GBM Und Jovanna, Blake Meyer, Kylie & Cole Saathoff & Finn Faulkner, Manteno 5. Silverview-Lane Sky-Red-ET, Brennan Woker, Greenville Fall Yearling Heifer (7) 1. Vailwood Dempsey Siri, Blake Meyer & Kylie & Cole Saathoff, Manteno 2. Irwindale Solomon Meadow, Dawn Irwin, Beason 3. Lakeshore Undenied Emilia, Justin Powell, Tremont 4. Silver-View Lane Avl Sara-ET, Brennan Woker, Greenville 5. Golden-Oaks Solomon Heiress, Ben Bremmer, Pearl City Junior Best Three Females (5) 1. B-J-Grove Holsteins, Mulberry Grove 2. Carters Corner Holsteins, Greenville 3. Bluff-Ridge Holsteins, Arrowsmith 4. Lakeshore Holsteins, Tremont 5. Bremmer Farms, Pearl City 2-Year-Old Futurity (9) 1. Irwindale High Octane Mira, Dawn Irwin, Beason 2. Erbacres Glory of Liberty, Payton & Delana Erbsen, Lanark 3. Erbacres Doorman Crusie, Payton & Delana Erbsen, Lanark 4. B-J-Grove Crush Rammie-TW, Kasey Clanton, Mulberry Grove 5. B-J-Grove Doorman Havanna, Kasey Clanton, Mulberry Grove Summer Junior 2-Year-Old Cow (9) 1. Luck-E Doc BoPeep, Dennis & Beth Engel, Hampshire 2. Lakeshore Doorman Effie-ET, Taylor, Layla & Kaylyn Powell, Tremont 3. Clearfield Crush Del 21, Lila Sloan, Davis 4. Koll-Kreek Solomon Sharona, Miranda Kollman, Mulberry Grove
5. Bluff-Ridge Doorman Divine, Sarah Butler, Arrowsmith Junior 2-Year-Old Cow (8) 1. Luck-E Doc Azacaboom-ET, Matt Engel, Hampshire 2. Luck-E Doc Azacaboo-ET, Matt Engel, Hampshire 3. Irwindale High Octane Mira, Dawn Irwin, Beason 4. Bluff-Ridge Doorman Bouquet, Sarah Butler, Arrowsmith 5. B-J-Grove Crush Rammie-TW, Kasey Clanton, Mulberry Grove Senior 2-Year-Old Cow (6) 1. Schluter Summer Lee-Red-ET, Tyler Carter & Brett Richter, Greenville 2. Erbacres Glory of Liberty, Payton & Delana Erbsen, Lanark 3. Erbacres Doorman Crusie, Payton & Delana Erbsen, Lanark 4. Irwindale Armani Tori, Dawn Irwin, Beason 5. Koll-Kreek S Goldielocks, Miranda Kollmann, Mulberry Grove Junior 3-Year-Old Cow (7) 1. Carters-Corner WH Presley, Tyler Carter, Greenville 2. Erbacres Diamond Sparkle, Connor Erbsen, Lanark 3. Erbacres G W Atwood Cherri, Payton Erbsen, Lanark 4. Erbacres Libertys Believe, Payton & Delana Erbsen, Lanark 5. Luck-E Ammo Arsenal-Red-ET, Matt Engel, Hampshire Senior 3-Year-Old Cow (8) 1. Luck-E McGucci Arabel-ET, Joe Engel, Hampshire 2. Luck-E Crush Adrenaline-ET, Matt Engel, Hampshire 3. Erbacres Atwood Chloe, Delana Erbsen, Lanark 4. Luck-E Merjack Asalia, Keith Engel, Hampshire 5. Bluff-Ridge Sid Dottie, Sarah Butler, Arrowsmith 4-Year-Old (6) 1. Uber-Haven Dfint Chrome-Red, Tyler Carter & Brett Richter, Greenville 2. Luck-E Awesome Adventure-ET, Dennis R. Engel, Hampshire 3. Luck-E Avalanche Aka-Red-ET, Matt Engel, Hampshire
4. Hostogold Brady Hillsnow, Matthew Busker, Ridott 5. Springhill-OH Illusion-ET, Magen Busker, Ridott 5-Year-Old Futurity (2) 1. Bluff-Ridge Atwood Tiana, Sarah Butler, Arrowsmith 2. Erbacres Reginald Livid, Payton & Delana Erbsen, Lanark 5-Year-Old (7) 1. Ms Atwood Lacey, Tyler Carter, Greenville 2. Bluff-Ridge Atwood Tiana, Sarah Butler, Arrowsmith 3. Luck-E Anaheim Airforce-ET, Kyle, Hope, Blake & Hailey Engel, Hampshire 4. Moroville B-Wire Lava-Red, Chad Zoelzer, Mulberry Grove 5. DoDel Atlantic Jayden, Jackson Brammeier, Carlyle Aged Cow (5) 1. Ms Queens-Manor Snchz Beau, Sarah Butler, Arrowsmith 2. Meier Meadows Max Flax, Magen Busker, Ridott 3. Bluff-Ridge Atwood January, Sarah Butler, Arrowsmith 4. Synergy Pilsner Tipper, Matt Engel, Hampshire 5. Erbacres Atwood El-Cortes, Payton Erbsen, Lanark 150,000-Lb. Cow (1) 1. Ludwigs-DG Goldwyn Emmy-ET, Justin Powell, Tremont Dam & Daughter (4) 1. Bluff-Ridge Holsteins, Arrowsmith 2. Luck-E Holsteins, Hampshire 3. Lakeshore Holsteins, Tremont 4. R-Homestead Holsteins, Nokomis Senior Best 3 Females (2) 1. Luck-E Holsteins, Hampshire 2. Bluff-Ridge Holsteins, Arrowsmith Produce of Dam (4) 1. Luck-E Holsteins, Hampshire 2. Luck-E Holsteins, Hampshire 3. Luck-E Holsteins, Hampshire 4. R-Homestead Holsteins, Nokomis Exhibitor’s Herd (1) 1. Luck-E Holsteins, Hampshire
2-Year-Old Futurity - Dawn Irwin
5-Year-Old Futurity - Sarah Butler
Premier Breeder & Premier Exhibitor - Luck-E
Intermediate Champion - Matt Engel Reserve Intermediate - Tyler Carter
Grand Champion - Tyler Carter & Brett Richter Reserve Grand - Dennis R. Engel
Junior Champion - Olivia Schluter Reserve Junior Champion - Kelly O’Connor HM - Meyer & Saathoff Page 10
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llinois Holstein Association
Fall 2020
ILLINOIS CHAMPIONSHIP JUNIOR SHOW JULY 9, 2020 JUDGE: JIM MEYER, IL Grand Champion & Int. Champion: Erbacres Glory of Liberty, Payton & Delana Erbsen, Lanark Res. Grand & Sr. Champion Champion: Springhill-OH Illusion-ET, Magen Busker, Ridott HM Grand & Res. Sr. Champion: Irwindale Bradnick Raven, Dawn Irwin, Beason Champion Bred & Owned: Erbacres Atwood El-Cortes, Payton Erbsen, Lanark Res. Champion Bred & Owned: Erbacres Diamond Sparkle, Connor Erbsen, Lanark Res. Int. Champion: Irwindale High Octane Mira, Dawn Irwin, Beason Junior Champion & Junior Champion Bred & Owned: Schluter Unstp Aspen-Red-ET, Olivia Schluter, Red Bud Res. Junior Champion: Bluff-Ridge D Dreamsickle, Kelly O’Connor, Arrowsmith Spring Heifer Calf (17) 1. RBR-FRM Jacoby Krown, Addison & Jacob Raber, Gridley 2. Ms Fionas Avl Frizzy-Red-ET, Taylor, Layla & Kaylyn Powell, Tremont 3. RBR-FRM Altitude Dixie-Red, Addison & Jacob Raber, Gridley 4. Ms Revives Rainbow-Red-ET, Taylor, Layla & Kaylyn Powell, Tremont 5. B-J-Grove Door Beehive, Kasey Clanton, Mulberry Grove Winter Heifer Calf (16) 1. R-Homestead Denver Lunie, Noelle & Brenley Clementz & Landon & Kaylee Hilgendorf, Nokomis 2. Thorman Altitude Sadie-Red, Jordan Thorman, Macomb 3. Schluter Atlanta-Red-ET, Olivia Schluter, Red Bud 4. Lakeshore Winters Eve, Taylor, Layla & Kaylyn Powell, Tremont 5. Carters-Corner Unst Par-ET, Acer Kratochvil, Fairbury Fall Heifer Calf (21) 1. Lakeshore Taco Pie-ET, Taylor, Layla & Kaylyn Powell, Tremont 2. Schluter Unst Trixie-Red, Olivia Schluter, Red Bud 3. Erbacres DB Landrey, Delana Erbsen, Lanark 4. Schluter Un Ambrosia-Red-ET, Tynnlee & Graisee Schluter, Viola 5. Erbacres Alaina-Red-ET, Connor & Nevin Erbsen, Lanark Summer Yearling Heifer (10) 1. B-J-Grove Unix Cherokee, Kasey Clanton, Mulberry Grove 2. RBR-FRM Jacoby Amarillo, Addison & Jacob Raber, Gridley 3. Opsal Ammo Caleesi, Shana & Drew Lueking, Centralia
4. Erbacres Dback Lotto-Red, Payton & Delana Erbsen, Lanark 5. R-Homestead Jacby Dazzle-ET, Landon Hilgendorf, Nokomis Spring Yearling Heifer (4) 1. Lakeshore Tatoo Elixir, Taylor, Layla & Kaylyn Powell, Tremont 2. B-J-Grove Fever Jugs, Kasey Clanton, Mulberry Grove 3. R-Homestead Jacby Deejay-ET, Landon Hilgendorf, Nokomis 4. Luck-E Doc Azaza-ET, Blake Engel, Hampshire Winter Yearling Heifer (5) 1. Schluter Unstp Aspen-Red-ET, Olivia Schluter, Red Bud 2. Bluff-Ridge D Dreamsickle, Kelly O’Connor, Arrowsmith 3. GBM Und Jovanna, Blake Meyer, Kylie & Cole Saathoff & Finn Faulkner, Manteno 4. Lordale Tatoo Malia, Dexter Ruffcorn, Camp Point 5. Carters-Corner Dback Really, Lane, Brady & Samantha Heinzmann, Carlyle Fall Yearling Heifer (4) 1. Vailwood Dempsey Siri, Blake Meyer & Kylie & Cole Saathoff, Manteno 2. Irwindale Solomon Meadow, Dawn Irwin, Beason 3. Golden-Oaks Solomon Heiress, Ben Bremmer, Pearl City 4. Schluter DB Amelia-ET, Jeff Kern, Prairie du Rocher Summer Junior 2-Year-Old (4) 1. Clearfield Crush Del 21, Lila Sloan, Davis 2. Lakeshore Doorman Eliza-ET, Dawn Irwin, Beason 3. Erbacres Defiant Lilly, Payton & Delana Erbsen, Lanark 4. R-Homestead Archrival Dot, Noelle Clementz, Nokomis
Junior Champion - Olivia Schluter Reserve Junior Champion - Kelly O’Connor
Intermediate Champion - Payton & Delana Erbsen Reserve Intermediate - Dawn Irwin
Illinois Holstein Herald
Junior 2-Year-Old (3) 1. Irwindale High Octane Mira, Dawn Irwin, Beason 2. B-J-Grove Crush Rammie-TW, Kasey Clanton, Mulberry Grove 3. B-J-Grove Doorman Havanna, Kasey Clanton, Mulberry Grove Senior 2-Year-Old (5) 1. Erbacres Glory of Liberty, Payton & Delana Erbsen, Lanark 2. Lucky-King Atwood Lemore, Shana & Drew Lueking, Centralia 3. Erbacres Doorman Crusie, Payton & Delana Erbsen, Lanark 4. Irwindale Armani Tori, Dawn Irwin, Beason 5. Wendy-Oaks Abslt Adela-ET, Gage Wendling, Altamont Junior 3-Year-Old (4) 1. Erbacres Diamond Sparkle, Connor Erbsen, Lanark 2. Erbacres G W Atwood Cherri, Payton Erbsen, Lanark 3. Erbacres Libertys Believe, Payton & Delana Erbsen, Lanark 4. Wendy-Oaks Meridian Daytona, Gage Wendling, Altamont Senior 3-Year-Old (5) 1. Rotesown Doorman Bermuda, Coleton Meier, Ridott 2. Ms ZMP McCutchen Daisy, Zach Paul, Worden 3. Erbacres Atwood Chloe, Delana Erbsen, Lanark 4. Oakfield Arch Dorrie-ET, Landon Hilgendorf, Nokomis 5. Clearfield Drman Trippy, Lila Sloan, Davis 4-Year-Old (3) 1. Springhill-OH Illusion-ET, Magen Busker, Ridott 2. Irwindale Bradnick Raven, Dawn Irwin, Beason 3. Hostogold Brady Hillsnow, Matthew Busker, Ridott 5-Year-Old (3) 1. DoDel Atlantic Jayden, Jackson Brammeier, Carlyle 2. Luck-E Anaheim Airforce-ET, Kyle, Hope, Blake & Hailey Engel, Hampshire 3. Mel-TV-BP Dundee Daisey-ET, Kelly O’Connor, Arrowsmith Aged Cow (3) 1. Erbacres Atwood El-Cortes, Payton Erbsen, Lanark 2. Meier Meadows Max Flax, Magen Busker, Ridott 3. Irwindale Redburst Topaz-Red, Dawn Irwin, Beason
Grand Champion - Payton & Delana Erbsen Reserve Grand - Magen Busker Page 11
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Fall 2020