Illinois
Holstein Herald
Summer 2019
Illinois Holstein Herald
Page 1
Brock Irwin Selected as 2019 National Distinguished Junior Member Semifinalist I have lived on a dairy farm all my life, and it has opened up countless opportunities for me to learn, grow, and become part of the dairy industry. When I joined FFA, I learned the FFA Creed and went to the Creed Speaking contest. My favorite line in the FFA Creed states, “For I know the joys and discomforts of agricultural life.” From my experience of living on a dairy farm and being a member of the Illinois Junior Holstein Association and Holstein Association USA, I have come to learn about the joys and discomforts of agriculture life. My family owns and operates R-Vision Holsteins. We milk 60 cows, raise about 70 heifers, and have 300 acres that we grow corn, soybeans, alfalfa, and wheat on that are harvested to feed our herd. Any excess crops are sold. We have our crops custom farmed, which allows us as a family to focus on the management of our dairy herd. We milk our cows in a 51-stall stanchion barn twice a day, but our cows spend the majority of their time in a sand bedded free stall barn. Our calves are housed in hutches, and heifers in open housing facilities. We are entirely family-run, so everyone must help with chores to make things run smoothly. Ever since I was a little kid, my main job on the farm has been to take care of the baby calves. I feed, water, and bed the calves from birth until weaning at approximately two months. I feed new calves colostrum for the first two feedings and then switch them to an accelerated milk replacer. After about a week of being fed with a bottle, I switch them to the bucket; and they also get free choice water and calf starter grain. As they grow, I watch them for signs of illness and treat them as needed. Taking care of the baby calves is by far my favorite job on the farm, one of the many joys I experience in my agricultural life. Another one of my major responsibilities includes caring for the show animals. Breaking the animals to lead is the most important part of taking care of the show animals because the animal’s behavior reflects your behavior. So, I am always calm and smooth with my movements and behavior. I always wait a few days after tying up a wild heifer before I try to lead her, but I brush her to get her used to being around people. I wash and clip all of my animals many times before the show and I spend lots of time working with them on the halter. At the shows, I clean out the manure and feed my show animals a grain and beet pulp mixture, as well as plenty of hay and water. I love working with my show animals because all of the hard work I put into them pays off in the show ring. I have shown dairy cows all my life, and it has taught me that one of my favorite joys of agriculture life is that Page 2
hard work leads to success. I have more responsibilities on the farm than just taking care of the baby calves and the show animals. I also do chores that include washing the milk pipelines and bedding the stalls. After a calf is weaned, I move the calf hutch and wash it. I also help level off the silo after we put fresh feed in. My Dad has had two major accidents. In the Fall of 2011, he got kicked by a fresh heifer, and she broke his leg. Also, in the Summer of 2014, he got the tips of his left index and middle fingers caught in the chain of the manure spreader. While he was recovering from these two accidents, my responsibilities greatly increased. I helped milk cows twice a day, made feed for the cows, fed the heifers, and cleaned the manure out of the heifer pens and cow lot. While my Dad’s accidents were an example of accidental discomforts in agriculture, being more responsible and taking on more tasks led me to be more active on the farm, which turned out to be a joy of my agricultural life. I have had many opportunities to work for other dairy producers for the past few years. One of these was to help my Aunt and Uncle of Dement’s Jerseys and their business partners at Kilgus Jerseys. I worked with them at the Illinois State Fair for three years; washing, bedding, feeding, and assisting in showing their 30-head show string of Jerseys; we have had a bunch of laughs and great times while working! This is yet another example of one of the joys of living an agricultural life: good times with cows, friends, and family at the fairs and other dairy functions. Another opportunity I have had is to work as an intern for Sunshine Genetics, Inc, an embryo transfer service located in Whitewater, Wisconsin. I worked there during World Dairy Expo week to help keep the milking cows clean for tours, feed the heifers and cows, and assist with IVF aspirations. I learned how to prepare the materials and equipment necessary to complete an IVF aspiration, how to find oocytes on an ultrasound, and the shots needed to complete the ovsynch program. I now have a better understanding of the cow’s reproductive system and hormones. I worked in the Summer of 2018 as an intern at Golden Oaks Farm in Wauconda, Illinois. This is a 600-head milking herd of registered Holsteins in Northeast Illinois near Chicago. While there, one of the projects I completed was to make an outline for the employees who lead tours. Because the farm is in a primarily urban area, there are many elementary school tours to educate children about how the milk they drink is produced. I led most of the tours while I was there, but made this guide so that anyone who showed
the students around would have a general idea of things to discuss at each stop. I worked with both the commercial and show herds. In the commercial herd, I assisted with general manager duties, including replacing activity monitors and ID responders, conducting fresh cow checks, treating sick cows, monitoring the pre-fresh pen, caring for newborns and fresh cows, vaccinating heifers, and drying off cows, all the while maintaining accurate records in Dairy Comp 305. In the show herd, I helped with general chores in the afternoon which included cleaning out pens, washing heifers and cows, feeding, and milking. I also attended the Illinois State Championship Holstein Show, where I helped feed, wash, and prepare the animals for the show. I have also been employed on a couple of other dairy farms where I worked as a farm hand. These include A & D dairy in Carlyle, Illinois, where I helped milk 150 Holsteins, watched the herd for heats and set up & cleaned the milk house, as well as Claretta Dairy Farm in Garden Prairie, Illinois, where I helped milk 200 Registered Holsteins, fed calves, scraped the holding pen, and helped clean pens and bed them. Working at each of these farms taught me new skills and that each farm operates differently. There is no one perfect way to run a dairy farm. Each farmer finds what works best for their operation. When I turned eight years old, I joined 4-H and the Illinois Junior Holstein Association. With that, I began going to dairy bowl practices in preparation for Spring Thing, which is the qualification level for Illinois before the national contest. While at my first Spring Thing, I also participated in the junior jeopardy contest, as well as the folding display contest, with my poster on the four compartments of a dairy cow’s stomach. I have been to every Spring Thing since that first year, participating in dairy quiz bowl, jeopardy, speech, and the folding display contest. I have had my poster go on to the national contest twice, where I received third place in my division both times. I enjoy making folding displays because I get to choose a topic I don’t know much about, and then teach others what I learned about it. After years of giving 4-H talks about dairy, I began to compete in the Junior Holstein prepared public speaking contest, with a speech about farm safety. That one landed me 1st place at Spring Thing and 2nd at the National Holstein Convention in Illinois. I have written and presented a speech every year continued on page 3 Summer 2019
FROM THE PRESIDENT
OBITUARY
Hello Illinois Holstein members and guests, Here it is May 10 and the weather seems more like April 10 with cold temps and very wet fields with very little corn planted. I mowed my lawn for the first time this season today. In less than seven weeks, the National Holstein Convention will take place in Appleton, WI. Sometimes I think there are a lot of Holstein breeders that feel the convention is more for the elected Delegates and the Juniors who are involved with all the Junior activities. I want to encourage all the breeders to try to attend this year’s convention--it’s not that far away. This marks 10 years for genomic testing and sire selection from genomic testing. At the convention there will be two meetings on the progress of genomic testing, etc. that should be very interesting and informative. Illinois Holstein breeders, I feel, will be very well represented by the four delegates that were elected to attend. They are: John Mitchell, John Erbsen, Steve Irwin, and Aaron Heinzmann. The Illinois Holstein Association has always been proud of the Junior members who represent us on the National level, and I am very confident this year will be no different. It’s not always about winning everything--it is the experience and the education part of all the Junior activities that stay with us and help us throughout our life that really matter. Right after the National Convention will be time for the district shows and Illinois State Show which will be a little earlier than usual. The dates for this year’s show in Bloomington are July 10-12. The Lenkaitis Family of St. Charles has graciously agreed to invite everyone to their farm for the State Picnic on September 15th, so mark your calendars and plan to attend. You will not be disappointed! I promise. Well I better get this wrapped up and get it to Stephanie before I get fired from this high paying President’s job! I will leave you with this: Dogs are man’s best friend because they wag their tails, not their tongues. Until next time,
Connie Gritton Winter Connie Gritton Winter, 65, of rural Winslow, IL passed away on May 3,2019 at UW Hospital in Madison, WI. She was born in Rantoul, IL to Marvin and Elizabeth (Higdon) Gritton on September 6, 1953. On December 28, 1999 Connie married Wes Winter in Rockton IL. She graduated Paxton High school in 1971, then attended the University of Illinois in which she graduated in 1974 with degrees in Ag Communications and Dairy Science. She was a long time editor for the National Brown Swiss Bulletin, as well as the Illinois Holstein Herald. Connie started Gritton Graphics in 1991, and it is still up and running today. Along with writing and running her business, Connie was a secretary of Rockford Area Illini Club. In 2013 she received the Illini Spirit Award, she was a charter member and secretary of the Brown Swiss Historical Society, and found time in her busy schedule to do various types of charity work. In 2014 the Illini Pipeline was dedicated in her name. Connie loved Illini Basketball, knitting, English Shepherds, Holsteins, Brown Swiss, making coffeecakes, and spending time with her family. She has made a tremendous impact on the lives she has touched, and she will be greatly missed. She is survived by her husband Wes Winter of Winslow, IL; mother Elizabeth Gritton-Paxton; sisters Julie (Mark) Lundvick of Jenison, MI, and Lisa (Dennis) Upah of Austin, TX; nieces and nephews- Brad (Amber) Lundvick of Hudsonville, MI, Alison (Ryan) DeVries of Hudsonville, MI, Megan Upah of New York, NY, and Drew (Elizabeth) Upah of Houston, TX. She is preceded in death by her father, and her beloved English Shepherd dogs. A memorial has been established for the National Brown Swiss Historical Society, or your favorite charity in Connie’s name.
Ed Smith
continued from page 2 since, with topics covering misconceptions in the dairy industry, misleading food labels and food fear, as well as how to be a more efficient dairy producer. This contest has helped with my research and grammar skills, as well as my presentation, speaking, and communication skills. As for dairy bowl, I made the Top Ten at Spring Thing in 2016 and 2017, and made the national team. At the 2017 National Holstein Convention, my team made it to the final round and challenged a question when one of our answers was ruled incorrect. We found our source and proved our answer to be correct. We left as undefeated national champions! I have also improved at dairy jeopardy, placing 2nd at the 2018 National Holstein Convention in Michigan. Junior Holstein activities are absolutely one of the joys of being in the agricultural industry because I learn all about the dairy industry as I study, meet other junior members from around the country, and it is also fun! I am involved in many other dairy activities as well. My county puts on a dairy breakfast every year. I help with set up, clean up, and my 4-H club also has a dairy promotion display. This is a great opportunity to talk to the public about the dairy industry and answer their questions. As they walk by, we hand out stickers, temporary tattoos, and talk Illinois Holstein Herald
with the consumers about where their milk comes from. I also participated in the Section 6 FFA Dairy Judging and Dairy Products Career Development Events. I placed 1st place at the section dairy judging contest, so I advanced to the state level. All of these events have taught me more about the dairy industry, and I have had so much fun at them! Another joy of agricultural life is learning as much as I can and sharing that knowledge with others; promoting the dairy industry as much as possible. Living an agricultural life does not only consist of the joys. There are also discomforts. Living on a dairy farm, you always must make chores a priority. This means chores must be balanced with other activities, which can be really challenging. Sometimes the chores get higher priority, and I have to miss out on doing something else I would like to do. Another discomfort is when you have to ship a favorite cow in the barn simply because she has gotten to that point. From my Dad’s accidents, I learned first-hand about farm safety and that accidents are one of the worst discomforts of agricultural life. R-Vision Holsteins sits on rented ground, and this past year we learned that the owners have decided to sell nearly all their properties, which affects six dairy farms. With my mother’s breast cancer diagnosis and my father’s worn-
out knees and back, we’ve made the tough decision to sell the milking herd. Luckily, Golden Oaks Farm agreed to buy the milking herd at a fair price. I’ve selected a couple of the cows to keep so I can continue to breed and exhibit them at shows. As I write this, my parents are still trying to buy the farm. I’ve watched them go through this process and, while I know they are discouraged, they’re staying positive and have modeled how to handle stress and adversity. As dairymen, we all experience a variety of lows, yet we get through them by focusing on all the joys that greatly outweigh the discomforts. I am so grateful for all the opportunities and experiences I’ve been given, whether they turn out to be joys or discomforts. Growing up on a dairy farm and participating in Junior Holstein activities helped me choose to continue my education at Kaskaskia College, where I was active in the Ag Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau, Dairy Judging Team, and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. After graduation, I will transfer to the University of WisconsinRiver Falls to complete my degree in dairy science and compete on their dairy judging team. I love living on a dairy farm, I love being a part of the dairy industry, and I can’t wait to see where the incredible animal, known as the foster mother of the human race, will lead me in the future! Page 3
ILLINOIS HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION Officers
Directors - Term Expires 2020
President ...................................................................................................................... Ed Smith 43386 N. Scott St., Antioch, IL 60002; 847/372-0602; ed.pat@att.net Vice-President ...................................................................................................... Steve Irwin 9400 Meridian Rd., Beason, IL 62512; 217/871-7738; samirwin@itsintheair.net 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
Executive Members John Erbsen ............................................................................................................ Northwest 10974 Benson Rd., Lanark, IL 61046; 815/275-4990; johnerbsen@aeroinc.net Herb Schmiedeskamp.............................................................................Mississippi-Valley 2328 N. 1700th St., Camp Point, IL 62320; 217/242-3920; sunhi7777@yahoo.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 - Jason Oertel................................................................................Gateway 32633 Delhi Rd., Brighton, IL 62012; 618/779-9060; jtoertel@sbcglobal.net
Public Relations Coordinator Stephanie Hammerly
Effingham ............................................................... Howard Dust, Shumway Heart of Illinois ............................................................. Carol Jones, Gridley Tri-County .................................................................Richard Meier, Beecher
Directors - Term Expires 2021 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
Boyd Schaufelberger, President 1254 IL Route 127, Greenville, IL 62246 · 618/664-2576 · schaufine@att.net Dale Drendel 15N057 Walker Road, Hampshire, IL 60140 · 815/766-0326 · ddrendel@fvi.net
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 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
PO Box 813, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965 · 608/732-2757 · briardesigns@gmail.com
Holstein Association USA Directors
217/663-2395 815/848-1500 708/946-6417
815/585-2785 618/322-3523 618/292-9105 217/242-3920 815/275-4990 815/865-5683 815/751-3301
Junior Officers Boone-Winnebago .................................................. Brock Irwin, Belvidere Northwest ................................................................. Jared Dickman, Lanark
815/544-0193 815/209-5280
Holstein Association USA Field Representative Tim Ewing 417/818-6455 (MILK) · tewing@holstein.com
ADVERTISERS B&B Bagging B-J-Grove BLM Fall Dairy Bluff-Ridge Bri-Mel Acres Car-Mer Farm, LLP Char-La-Don Clearfield Farm Cross-Wake Dairy Dair-E-Land Holsteins DoDel Holsteins Edler Farm Flat-Net Dairy Fruendly-Acres Glendell H. Farms, Ltd.
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Glenkeen Holsteins Golden Oaks Farm Heinz-Hope Farm Holbric Holsteins Hunter Haven Farms, Inc. Irwindale Holsteins J-Maker Dairy Farm K-J Holsteins K-Lane Farms Kaco-Vu Kochnook Farm Koester Dairy Laeschway Dairy Lenkaitis Holsteins Luck-E Holsteins
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FEATURES Advertisers ....................................................................................................................4 Calendar.........................................................................................................................5 Dutchess Domain .......................................................................................................5 From the President ....................................................................................................3 Illinois Championship Show ...................................................................................5 Illinois Holstein Dutchess ........................................................................................5 Illinois Holstein Futurity ...........................................................................................5 Junior News ......................................................................................................... 10,11 Junior Officers & Advisor Team ........................................................................... 11 National DJM Semifinalist ................................................................................... 2,3 National YDJM Finalists ........................................................................................ 8,9 Obituary .........................................................................................................................5 Sale & Show Reports .................................................................................................2
Lucky-King Holsteins Lyonden Farm Mackinson Dairy Farm 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
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Schaufine Farms Select Sires Shannondoah Holsteins Smith, Ed Stone Ridge Sunshine Genetics Thorman Dairy Farm Von-View Dairy Farm Wild Genetics Will-Can-Do Holsteins Winter Dairy Farm Zehrview Holsteins
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ON THE COVER Featured on the cover of this issue are Brock Irwin (top), 2019 National Distinguished Junior Member Semifinalist, Delana Erbsen (middle), and Addie Raber (bottom), 2019 National Young Distinguished Junior Member Finalists. Congratulations to Brock, Delana, and Addie on receiving these prestigious National Junior Holstein awards and thank you for representing Illinois Holsteins so well! View their Junior stories in this issue.
Volume 81, Number 2
Summer 2019
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 May 20, 2019
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Summer 2019
ILLINOIS CHAMPIONSHIP HOLSTEIN SHOW
Visit Us Online! illinoisholsteins.com facebook.com/IllinoisHolsteins facebook.com/IllinoisJuniorHolsteinAssociation
CALENDAR 6/ 7 6/22 6/22 6/24-27 7/10-12 9/10 9/15 11/15 2/7-8
16th Annual Illini Dairy Classic Golf Outing, Savoy Gateway District Show, Bond County Fairgrounds Judge: Darren Ropp Northeast District Show, Boone County Fairgrounds Judge: Brett Zimmerman National Holstein Convention, Appleton, Wisconsin IL Holstein Championship Show, Bloomington Fall Herald Advertising Deadline IL State Holstein Picnic at Lenkaitis Holsteins, St. Charles Winter Herald Advertising Deadline IL Senior Holstein Convention, Holiday Inn East, Quincy
*additional event information available at: www.illinoisholsteins.com
LETTER TO THE EDITOR As I continue my final year as an IJHA member, I’d like to thank everyone who has helped me get to where I am today. Without you, I likely wouldn’t have been named a National DJM Semifinalist! Also, thank you to everyone who read over my DJM stories this winter. To Glen and Becky Meier, thank you for your hard work, dedication, and passion you’ve put in to coaching our national teams year and year again. Your track record of national success proved your effectiveness as our coaches. I’ve learned so much from you both, and am so grateful for our friendship! Here’s to the memories we’ve made, the laughs we’ve shared, and the national title we’ve won together! Thank You! Brock Irwin
WILD GENETICS
Kris Wild 12838 N. Hulbert Rd. Winslow, IL 61089 wilddaddy79@aol.com
2019 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Monday, July 1st - Early entry deadline Monday, July 1st - Futurity entry deadline Monday, July 8th - Set-up is allowed after 12 p.m. Tuesday, July 9th - Cattle may arrive no earlier than 8 a.m. Wednesday, July 10th - Exhibitor Meeting at 1 p.m. Cattle must be checked in by 2 p.m. Illinois Holstein Dutchess & Little Miss Holstein Contests 5 p.m. Thursday, July 11th - Dutchess Crowning 8:30 a.m. Illinois Championship Junior Show & Showmanship Contest Friday, July 12th - Illinois Championship Show 8:30 a.m. Illinois Holstein 2-Year-Old & 5-Year-Old Futurities Cattle must be off the grounds by 6 p.m. SHOW RULES & ENTRY FORMS Available at www.illinoisholsteins.com FUTURITY ENTRY FORMS Visit www.illinoisholsteins.com/calendar/futurity/ Contact ilfuturity@gmail.com with any questions DUTCHESS & LITTLE MISS HOLSTEIN CONTESTS Dutchess Eligibility: Any Junior Holstein member girl ages 16-21 may enter the Dutchess contest. Little Miss Holstein Eligibility: Any girl ages 6-10 may enter the Little Miss Holstein contest. Awards: The 2019 Illinois Holstein Dutchess will receive a scholarship award. Each Little Miss Holstein contestant will receive a prize package. For additional details and to apply, contact: Lori Lyons, Dutchess Chair at (815) 988-7102 or moolyons@aol.com
DUTCHESS DOMAIN Hello Illinois Holstein enthusiasts, I hope you all have thawed out from the polar vortex! It has been an honor to represent Illinois as the Holstein Dutchess. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone at State Show and passing on the crown to the new Dutchess! Happy Planting!
Ellie Lenkaitis
608-214-3259
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
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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
Summer 2019
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
Place your Breeder Ad HERE! Published 4x/year Contact: Stephanie Hammerly Public Relations Coordinator 608-732-2757 briardesigns@gmail.com
Connie Turley 618.664.3240
www.rollinglawnsfarm.com
Michael & Jennifer Turley 314.308.1005
The Butler Family
35821 E 900 N Rd., Arrowsmith, IL David: 309-824-2131 Christie: 815-530-0331 Sarah: 309-824-8621
LYONDEN FARM
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 Illinois Holstein Herald
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Delana Erbsen Selected as 2019 National Young Distinguished Junior Member Finalist No, I wasn’t born in a barn, but I went there as soon as possible. For as long as I can remember I have been involved on our farm, Erbacres Holsteins. When I was just a few days old I was taken to my very first cattle show. I was blessed to be born into an industry that I feel extremely passionate about, blessed with the gift of being raised on a dairy farm and being involved in this industry. The dairy industry has given me so many more opportunities than most kids ever receive. Since I was a little, I have followed my dad in his career. I used to tell my mom that I was going to college in the barn with my dad! Dad has certainly been my most influential mentor, but I’ve been privileged to learn from many. Our farm, Erbacres Holsteins, milks 50 cows and has about 50 young stock. My parents, Kevin & Wendy Erbsen and my brother Payton reside on our 180-acre farm which is part of the 720 acres we operate. I am the 5th generation farmer on both sides of my family. My grandma, Pauline Erbsen, is still involved on our family farm, operating in partnership with my father. My aunts, uncles and cousins help with farm details whenever they can. Although my Grandpa Tony and Grandma Sunny live in Washington they still have taught me multiply lessons. All three grandparents have been huge mentors in my life. My main responsibility on our farm is the young stock. Every morning and night I am in charge of feeding the calves that are on milk, observing and treating any health issues and keeping them well bedded. Taking care of the young stock also includes breaking each heifer to lead. During the summer I spend much of my time working with the entire herd. While in school, I assist with milking and cow comfort every night and weekend mornings. My dad has taught me the importance of cow comfort. To insure cows are comfortable during and after calving I make sure the cow gets clipped. Usually the cow hasn’t been clipped for a while so they need their long hair taken off so their skin can breathe, and they can grow a new healthy coat of hair. Dad always tells me, “If the cow isn’t comfortable and relaxed, she won’t make her maximum milk yield.” Knowing this I always strive to make sure the cows are comfortable, even if it means trying something new. My aunt Paula has taught me many new ways to make sure the cows are always comfortable. Whenever she visits, we talk about something new that I can try to make the cows more comfortable. Dad, Aunt Paula and I all share a passion for working with our cows to insure they are comfortable and performing the best they can. Registering the heifer calves is another of Page 8
my responsibilities. I promptly picture them and use the Easy ID program to complete the application process. Once the registration papers are received, I make sure they are filed in a binder. As well as keeping these papers organized, I organize the DHI papers for the milk cows. Sire selection is something my dad and I discuss often as we strive to breed the perfect cow. When my dad breeds a cow, I write down the dates and keep track of when the cows should come in heat and when they will be due if they settle. Once they are confirmed pregnant, I record them on our “Cows to Calve” chart so it is easier for my dad to pinpoint when they need to begin a pre-fresh diet. My dad passed this record keeping down to me. As a family my cousins and I show at local, state, and national levels. Showing has taught me multiply life lessons like being a good loser and to respect others. One of the most important lessons showing has taught me is: if I want to be successful, I must put in the work first. Living on a farm in general has taught me to work hard at every task. I have learned that I am not perfect at everything but if I work hard at it, I can gain some success. I break all our heifers to lead so they will better cooperate in any situation. At the shows I am on the set-up crew and in charge of filling the cattle on show day. My cousins and brother have taught me the importance of working as a team to care for our cattle in the best possible manner. We all share the desire to win and I know I must work hard to succeed. Classification is one of the most important events on our farm. Every cow must be washed and clipped. My family spends the day prior washing the cows. It’s a special family bonding time doing something we are all passionate about. The week before classification my dad works diligently to get the cows all clipped and it is my responsibility to help him. During chores I clip the heads and bodies to assure that they will be ready when the day comes. As the day comes closer, I am put to the task of clipping udders. My brother, dad, and cousin work together to tackle the task of clipping all the cow’s udders. Watching my dad clip and listening to the tips he gives has molded me into a great assistant to his work for classification. I am involved in several organizations, such as 4-H, Dairy Judging and FFA, where I can express my love for the Holstein cow. In 4-H my aunt Becky has pushed me out of my comfort zone by pushing me to talk in front of people about my project and to do community service projects. In FFA my adviser, Cindy Feltmeyer, and my mom have mentored
me in record keeping and pushed me to succeed in anything I put my mind to. They are the reason I was able to win my Star Farmer Discovery Degree. In dairy judging my dad and I have talked cows my entire life. When judging cows, I think about the points my dad has emphasized to me. My dad has mentored me into the judge I am today. I was honored to place first last year in both the sectional FFA contest and the district 4-H contest. I plan to continue improving my judging skills in hopes of competing on a national level. I am extremely involved in the Junior Holstein Association. I have competed at National Holstein Convention in Dairy Jeopardy twice and once in Dairy Bowl. At the state level, I was in a sudden death tie breaker for the national dairy jeopardy spot. We had both answered the first two questions correct. The final question was one my aunt had talked to me about a few weeks earlier when we were preparing for classification. Yes, I was excited to win but it was even more gratifying because I was able to apply knowledge I gained while working with my own cattle and one of my many mentors. During chores my dad and I talk about Dairy Bowl questions that I didn’t know at a practice or competition. He explains the how’s, whys and what’s of the question so I fully understand the process. When my aunt Paula visits, she also explains different Dairy Bowl questions to me. When the time comes, I remember the moments I have with them in the barn which helps me remember the answer. My future career plan is to become a large animal veterinarian. Doctor Russ Weston has been our vet since I could remember. Watching him work has made me want to pursue my dream. Every time he is at our farm, he lets me assist him. He shares his experiences and provides a very thorough explanation so I can learn from what he did. Russ has always been a role model to me. I admire his work and someday plan to work like he does. Throughout my 14 years of life I have had many mentors that have shaped me into the person I am today. I am very thankful for these people and look forward to continuing my work with Registered Holsteins. I can only hope that someday I can be an influential mentor to those younger than me.
Summer 2019
Addie Raber Selected as 2019 National Young Distinguished Junior Member Finalist The way I grew up with cows in my childhood is different than most kids. On our farm, my family runs a grain operation alongside with the dairy farm. Registered Holsteins have been a part of my life since I was 4-years-old. My Mom and her family come from generations of dairy farming. We do not milk at our farm, so we are lucky to have two dairy farms close by to house our milk cows. My journey growing up and showing Holsteins started with Zehrview Holsteins. I showed with the Zehr family until 2014. My parents saw the dedication my brother 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 because they taught me the basics of raising and showing the heifers/cows that I own today. They also taught me how to raise calves and heifers to reach their greatest potential. The heifers and calves at my farm are solely dependent on me feeding, watering and providing them adequate shelter. Since we do not milk, I send my cows to other farms depending upon the breed (Holsteins go to Erdman Dairy and Jerseys go to Kilgus Jerseys). My calves are housed at my home farm location. 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. The calves are fed milk three times a day to maximize their growth potential. Every day I check each hutch for manure to clean out and observe for 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 ½ mile from home to start heifer chores. This is not ideal, but I make it work because I love my cows. I must haul water to the barn for we do not have a well at the heifer facility. Between late spring to early fall, I fill up a 1500 gallon water tank at least once a week. I use the water to fill up water tanks and rinse/wash the heifers. When the weather changes to stay cold, I haul water in a 65 gallon water tank in the back of a truck because the water pump and hoses freeze at the barn. I also put heaters in the water tanks to keep the water from freezing. In all seasons, chores consist of feeding grain and hay, filling water tanks, cleaning pens, and raking the barn. On school days, my mom does the heifer chores in the morning, but I am still responsible for the calf chores. During the show season, I have a preparation checklist that I complete after regular chores. Each morning I rinse the Illinois Holstein Herald
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 15-30 minutes to keep them in good shape. Since our milk cows are not housed at home, three times a week I travel to the other farms to walk and wash the cows to keep them used to the show routine. My parents have put a lot of emphasis on showmanship. My goal is to have all my animals leading like puppies which has earned me numerous awards in showmanship. With all my hard work, I have a goal to win showmanship at World Dairy Expo. 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 a sire’s linear evaluation to correct the faults of 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 having homebred animals win classes at a national show which would be very rewarding. Through the years, I have diligently worked on my fitting skills. My three man fitting team consists of my mom, brother, and me. Together, the three of us are the fitters for our string at all shows except World Dairy Expo. I take pride in my ability to fit my animals for the Southern Spring National, North American International Livestock Exposition, Illinois State Fair, and local shows. Being able to clip animals is a skill that is needed on every farm, show animals or not. My fitting duties fitting include: clipping heads, legs, udders, milk veins, and occasionally bodies. I am still working on toplines, but I am getting better at it! Saving money by not hiring a fitter is helpful for I have more money to use on my animals. Within the Illinois Junior Holstein Association, we have many activities that go on throughout the spring and summer. In February, we have our junior convention, where we compete for spots for National Holstein Convention Dairy Bowl, Jeopardy, Prepared Public Speaking, and Folding Display. This year, I am on the planning committee for the convention. In July, we have our annual Illinois Championship Junior and Open show, in which I have shown at once and placed 3rd in my division of Junior Showmanship. Normally, the show falls the same week as my county 4-H fair. This year, it has shifted to the week before, so I will be able to show at both. In August, we have the Illinois State Fair Junior and Open Shows. I have shown here since I was ten and have achieved many champion and showmanship awards. At the end of the Illinois State Fair, we hold our Superior Young
Dairy Producer Contest to compete for one of three $1,000 scholarships, and a chance to be on the Illinois 4-H Dairy Judging Team. In 2018, I won one of the $1,000 scholarships, and earned a spot on the National 4-H Dairy Judging Team that competes at World Dairy Expo. I attended the 2018 National Holstein Convention in Michigan. I was a member of the Illinois Junior Dairy Bowl team. Whether I am competing or not, I want to go back again next year. Also, I have shown at many shows across the country, including the Southern Spring National, World Dairy Expo, and NAILE. I have done well at all three shows. A very special moment at WDE this year was when I won my first two medals in both the open and junior show. At NAILE, I placed fourth in Intermediate Showmanship at the Grand National Junior Holstein Show, my homebred heifers placed both first and second in the Junior Show, and Illinois won the state herd. My life would be essentially repetitive and ordinary without my Holsteins. These wonderful animals are taking me somewhere in my life while doing something that I love. I have developed a hard and disciplined work ethic while knowing the worth of hard earned money. The Holstein Association has opened so many doors and opportunities in my life, and I plan to keep opening them. I want to continue growing my small herd by utilizing the strong pedigrees to develop great new calves. In the future, I want to have a cow with my prefix, RBR-FRM, that is scored Excellent. This spring I am excited for when my homebred heifer will calve with a potential great calf. My main goal in life is to create a small, but nationally known herd. After high school graduation, I plan to double major in Dairy Science and Pre-Veterinary Medicine. Then, I want to attend the University of WisconsinMadison Veterinary School to earn my DVM to become a licensed large animal veterinarian. I dream of having my own vet practice and raising and boarding show heifers for people across the country. It’s hard for some dairies to raise show heifers, and I want to be that helper. My cows have created the person that I am today. I hope one day that I can give back to the industry that has given me my life.
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JUNIOR JOURNEYS 4-H Superior Young Dairy Producer Contest August 17, 2019 - Springfield, IL
This is a great opportunity to win a $1,000.00 scholarship and have fun doing it at the Illinois State Fair. Eligibility: MUST be a current Illinois 4-H member and MUST be currently enrolled in a dairy project in their local 4-H club and MUST be 14 years or older, as of January 1, 2019, to be eligible to participate in the 2019 Illinois State Fair Superior Young Dairy Producer Award program. Remember, you do not need to be a State Fair Junior dairy exhibitor to participate. Awards: The top 3 youth with the highest point scores in the total contest will receive a $1,000.00 scholarship and plaque. A plaque will also be presented to each of the “top three” phase winners in the individual phase competitions. All participants will be recognized and the overall winners will be announced on Saturday afternoon, August 17th, following the contest. Contest Format: The contest will be held at the Illinois State Fair in the Livestock Center on August 17th, with registration from 8:00 to 8:20 a.m. 8:30 a.m. - Phase 1 - Management Test: A 25 question written test relating to any aspects of dairy management and related facts. Study resources include 4-H dairy project manuals and the dairy portions of Livestock E-Quiz (both dairy levels) located on the web site at: http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/equiz/. 9:00 a.m. - Phase 2 - Skillathon: This will involve a series of three learning stations with specific tasks and questions for participants to answer, such as “identifying dairy feeds”, “identifying dairy equipment”, and “herd health” or “dairy management”. 10:00 a.m. - Phase 3 - Dairy Judging: 6 classes will be placed by the participants. Oral reasons are not part of this contest. This program is coordinated and conducted by Dave Fischer, U of I Extension Dairy Educator-Retired. Registration forms are available at your county Extension Office or Dave Fischer via e-mail at dfischer@illinois.edu. Registrations are due to Dave Fischer, 901 Oak Hill St., Trenton, IL 62293 prior to the IL State Fair SYDPA contest.
State 4-H Dairy Judging Contest, August 17, 2019 - Springfield, IL
The Illinois 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2019 in the Livestock Center at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield, Illinois. This is the State 4-H Dairy Contest and any 4-H member is welcome to participate. All contestants must be current 4-H members. Contestants are not required to be enrolled in a dairy project. Contestant registration is to be made on the day of the contest at the State Fair. Registration will be from 9:00 a.m. to 9:50 a.m. in the Livestock Center (open show ring) on the IL State Fairgrounds. The contest will begin at 10:00 a.m. on August 17, 2019. There will be six (6) classes of cows and heifers selected from various dairy breeds at the Illinois State Fair. All 4-H contestants will be scored as a Junior Division (13 years of age and younger as of January 1, 2019) or Senior Division (14 years and older as of January 1, 2019) participant. All participants will be invited to present oral reasons following the contest but it is not mandatory. Contestants in the Junior Division will be encouraged and offered the opportunity to give one set of written or oral reasons on a cow class. The Junior contestants can read or recite from memory their reasons. HOWEVER, contestants in the Senior Division who will be considered for selection to the State 4-H Team will be required to give two sets of oral reasons on cow classes. The state 4-H dairy cattle judging team will be selected from participants in this contest. To be eligible for selection, members must have been 14 years of age and not older than 18 years of age as of January 1, 2019. The selected 2019 Illinois 4-H Dairy Judging Team will participate at the National Contest in Madison, Wisconsin on September 30, 2019.
SPRING SALE & SHOW HIGHLIGHTS WI. Listed below are the IL Holstein breeders that did well. Congratulations!
71st IL PDCA Calf Sale The 71st IL PDCA Calf Sale was held April 13, 2019 at the Champaign County Fairgrounds in Urbana. 30 Holstein lots sold for an average of $1,175. High selling animal at $3,700 was CharLa-Don DB Adore-Red-ET, a Diamondback December calf from the 2017 All-American R&W Aged Cow, Farnear-TBR American-RedET EX-92-2E. She was consigned by Olivia Telgmann and was purchased by Ella Dorn (pictured). Second high seller at $2,800 was Carters-Corner Dback Really, a Diamondback December calf from Carters-Corner Merida Rousy VG-85. She was consigned by Tyler Carter and was purchased by Lane, Brady and Samantha Heinzmann.
Southern Spring National Show The Southern Spring National Holstein Show was held on April 13, 2019 in Stillwater, Oklahoma and was judged by Brian Behnke, Page 10
Summer Yearling Heifer 3. RBR-FRM Dman Remington, Addison & Jacob Raber 5. B-J-Grove Doorman Beauty, Kasey Clanton Winter Yearling Heifer 4. B-J-Grove Doorman Bugsy-ET, Kasey Clanton Fall Yearling Heifer 5. Koll-Kreek S Goldielocks, Miranda Kollman 4-Year-Old Cow 5. Ms B-J-Grove Gldchp Hoosier, Miranda Kollman Junior Show Bred & Owned Junior Champion RBR-FRM Dman Remington, Addison & Jacob Raber Best Junior Exhibitor Raber Farms - Addison & Jacob Raber
Southern Nat’l Juding Contest Illinois placed 1st in the 4-H Judging Contest at the Southern National. Team members included Addison Raber, Jacob Raber, Zachary Paul and Taylor Huels. Addison was the top individual for the 4-H judging divsion and was also named a receipient of the Jerry Cash 4-H Memorial Award for her success in dairy judging. Congratulations!
Midwest Spring Shows The Midwest Spring National Red & White Show was held on April 26, 2019 in Madison, Wisconsin and was judged by Jeff Brown, OH. The Midwest Spring National Holstein Show was held the following day and was judged by Keith Topp, OH. Listed below are the IL Holstein breeders that did well. Congratulations!
R&W Summer Yearling Heifer 5. Zehrview Addict-P Gold-Red, Powell & Zehr R&W Junior 2-Year-Old Cow 1. Luck-E Avlnch Klassy-Red, Hope Engel (BU&B&O) R&W Senior 2-Year-Old Cow 4. Schluter Sierra Lee-Red-ET, Olivia Schluter (1st B&O) R&W Junior 3-Year-Old Cow 2. Hilrose Db Allie-Red-ET, Olivia Schluter R&W 5-Year-Old Cow 1. Miss Pottsdale Dfi Tang-Red, Golden Oaks Farms (BU) 3. Pamprd-Acres Ab Ivy-Red, Golden Oaks Farms R&W Honorable Mention Senior Champion Miss Pottsdale Dfi Tang-Red, Golden Oaks Farm Winter Heifer Calf 2. GBM Und Jovanna, Mat & Erin Faulkner 3. Cross-Wake After Luchi, Holly Wakeley Spring Yearling Heifer 4. Zehrview Avalanche Cuba-ET, Rosalee & Wyatt Zehr Fall Yearling Heifer 2. Carters-Corner Doormn Reign, Tyler Carter & Dylan Reed (1st B&O) Junior Best Three Females 3. Tyler Carter Junior 2-Year-Old Cow 2. Luck-E Avlnch Klassy-Red, Hope Engel (1st B&O) Junior 3-Year-Old Cow 5. Ms Tri-Koebel Integral Gwen, Greta & Tera Koebel & Kelly Epperly Senior 3-Year-Old Cow 5. Blondin Goldwyn Bistro-ET, Golden Oaks Farm 4-Year-Old Cow 5. Ms Atwood Lacey-ET, Tyler Carter
Congratulations on your All-American & Junior All-American awards! Summer 2019
2019 JUNIOR SPRING THING 2019-2020 OFFICERS & ADVISOR TEAM
President: Payton Erbsen Vice President: Addie Raber Secretary: Allyson Aves Treasurer: Jacob Raber Reporter: Briley Lenkaitis Adult Advisors: Wendy Erbsen Phone: 815-493-2331 Al Lenkaitis Phone: 630-561-9514 Amy Raber Phone: 815-867-0694
Make sure to check the Illinois Holstein website www.illinoisholsteins.com and Facebook pages for up-to-date information on all Junior activities!
The Top 10 Junior Dairy Bowl Contestants (L-R back) Lila Sloan, Magen Busker, Delana Erbsen, (L-R middle) Jackson Brammeier, Alaina Dinderman, Shana Lueking, (L-R front) Allyson Aves, Lars Carlson, Justin Irwin & Drew Lueking
The Top 10 Senior Dairy Bowl Contestants (L-R back) Jared Dickman, Connor Erbsen, Lane Heinzmann, (L-R middle) Addie Raber, Payton Erbsen, Briley Lenkaitis, (L-R front) Emma Carlson, Julia Mitchell, Rachel Scidmore & Taylor Huels
4-H Dairy Bowl Team (L-R) Addie Raber, Hannah Albert, Taylor Huels & Brady Heinzmann They will compete in the National 4-H Contest at NAILE this Fall.
Junior Dairy Jeopardy (L-R) 1st Drew Lueking, 2nd Lars Carlson & 3rd Justin Irwin
Intermediate Dairy Jeopardy (L-R) 1st Emma Carlson, 2nd Addie Raber & 3rd Lila Sloan
Senior Dairy Jeopardy (L-R) 1st Brock Irwin, 2nd Jordon Oellerich & 3rd Jared Dickman
Arts & Crafts (L-R) 1st Ella Gunderson, 2nd Briley Lenkaitis & 3rd Rachel Busker
1st Place Dairy Challenge Team (L-R) Delana Erbsen, Brock Irwin & Rachel Scidmore
Kyle Mitchell Memorial Award Connor Erbsen Presented by John Mitchell
View more results and photos on the Illinois Junior Holstein Association Facebook page Illinois Holstein Herald
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NAAB
Name
507HO14451 507HO14194 507HO14125 7HO14333 7HO14230 7HO14319 7HO14231 7HO14545 7HO14096
BIG AL MOOLA HUEY FUTURE LUCIA FORTE BARCELONA JAMARCO CAMDEN
Fat
Fat %
CM$
Yld Rel
+119 +97 +105 +100 +101 +104 +116 +121 +106
+0.24 +0.14 +0.18 +0.10 +0.29 +0.25 +0.24 +0.18 +0.25
+1,056 +1,002 +990 +981 +980 +970 +965 +951 +921
78% 78% 78% 79% 77% 79% 78% 76% 79%
Who doesn’t want to fatten their bottom line? These elite young sires have the ability to add premiums to your milk check each and every month by boosting the fat content. Contact your Select Sires representative today to purchase these elite young sires.
04/19 CDCB/HA Genomic Evaluations. All bulls qualify for semen export to Canada.
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Spring 2019