Illinois
Holstein Herald
Summer 2020
Illinois Holstein Herald
Page 1
Connor Erbsen Selected as 2020 National Distinguished Junior Member Semifinalist I have been on the farm as long as I can re m e m b e r, so many of my earliest memories have come from the barn or being on a tractor. I have loved animals, especially cows, and tractors ever since I was a young child. I have been showing since I was old enough to lead a March calf around the ring! As I have grown older it has become clear to me that my passion for agriculture, and the Holstein cow, was sparked in these early days! Erbacres Holsteins is a family farm consisting of 50 head Registered Holstein cows and 700 acres of cropland where we grow corn, soybeans, alfalfa, oats, and hemp. Erbacres is managed by my grandmother Pauline, my uncle Kevin, and my father John. Our tie stall operation requires a lot of manual labor by all members of the family between milking, feeding, and cleaning the barn each day. Kevin has full responsibility of the day to day operations for the milking cow herd. At Erbacres II, my dad’s farm, we raise many of our own show animals, as well as animals owned outside of Erbacres including many of the offspring of KHW Regiment Apple-Red-ET. My younger cousins and I are involved daily, helping with milking and feeding, as well as any tasks at hand. I am the son of John Erbsen of Lanark, IL, and Anjie Erbsen of Sterling, IL. In addition to the daily operations at Erbacres, my dad works as an evaluator for Select Sires MidAmerica Inc. and owns Erbsen Cattle Photography. At Compeer Financial, my mother works with farm equipment, building, and manufacturing vendors to provide financing to farmers. I have been able to travel with my parents to national farm shows, as well as dairies of all setups and sizes across the country. While at dad’s, I am involved in every aspect of the operation including daily feeding, chores, milking, and all jobs involving the crops. My daily chores have included bedding, cleaning, and feeding since I was big enough to walk! I started helping with milking when I was tall enough to reach the pipeline in the tie-stall barn and began driving the tractor as soon as I could reach the clutch. As I have Page 2
grown older, my cattle and crop responsibilities have grown. When I was in high school, I was responsible for feeding corn silage and haylage to the milking herd and heifers, as well as milking when my dad was traveling for work. In the cropping operations for myself, my father, my uncle, and my grandmother, I am the combine and planter operator and summer grain hauler, as well as assisting in the tillage and forage work. In addition to equipment operation, I also manage the technology and software that is responsible for controlling our equipment and collecting data, allowing our operation to make better informed decisions. I help milk, feed, and bed at the main farm and Erbacres II when I am home from college on the weekends and breaks. My dad is a principal owner of the “Million Dollar Cow”, KHW Regiment Apple-Red-ET EX-96 4E DOM. This cow has opened the door for more opportunities than I could have imagined while also giving me more responsibilities. The Apple Partners have been aggressive merchandisers with offspring selling in a variety of private and public sales across the U.S. every year. It is my responsibility to help break the calves to lead and to work with the vet as needed to make sure all health and genomic testing is in order. There are always heifers to clip and wash in preparation for sales and visitors, or to be photographed for promotions in magazines, the internet, social media, and shows. As payment for my involvement in raising animals for Apple Partners, I have earned the opportunity to show many of the Apple offspring. One of the more notable animals I have had the privilege of showing is KHW Regiment Apple-3-RedETN, the 2013 Reserve Supreme Champion at World Dairy Expo. I showed her as a heifer for my first year of showmanship at World Dairy Expo in 2009 and placed 8th. I am very proud to say that I had a major part in raising a World Dairy Expo Champion and helping to instill Apple-3’s love of bananas! I am also proud to say that I have raised and introduced these National winners to the showring: Miss Apple Snapple-RED-ET EX-95, the 2017 Reserve Senior Champion R&W at World Dairy Expo, and Erbacres Snapple Shakira-ET VG-89-CAN, the 2018 Intermediate Champion Holstein at World Dairy Expo, as well as MS Angel Dellucci EX-92, who was Grand Champion of the 2014 Midwest National Spring Junior Show. Working with Apple Partners has been a very rewarding opportunity and has exposed me to technologies such as cloning. I have raised clones of Apple herself as well as clones of my cow, Erbacres Goldwyn Peace-ET. I have owned three clones of Peace named Hope-
of-Peace, Love-of-Peace, and Faith-of-Peace. These animals have performed well on the district, state, and national levels. Hope won the 2011 Winter Heifer Calf and 2012 Winter Yearling classes in the International Junior Show at World Dairy Expo as well as being Reserve Jr All-American those years. In addition to bred-and-owned animals, I have also enjoyed tremendous success with several purchased animals as well. RJR Sid 3273-ET EX92 was first place Fall Yearling in Milk at World Dairy Expo 2014, Intermediate Champion at 2014 NAILE Holstein Show and 2014 Jr. AllAmerican. Springbend Aftershock Danica was Intermediate Champion and Reserve Grand Champion at the 2015 NAILE, Res. Grand Champion at the 2016 IL Championship Holstein Show, and Grand Champion at the 2017 IL Jr. Championship Holstein Show, and earned a classification score of EX-94. Recently I have enjoyed much success with Sunnyhome McCutchen, placing 1st in the Sr. 3 Yr. Old class and winning Res. Intermediate Champion at the 2017 International Junior Holstein Show, and a classification score of EX-95 in the past couple weeks. I have also bred and owned Jerseys in the past. In 2010, my Jersey heifer, Erbacres Annabelle, was Junior Champion of the International Junior Jersey Show at World Dairy Expo. Having your name announced on the PA system at World Dairy Expo is one of the greatest feelings ever, because all your hard work has paid off! Participation in showmanship contests helps to hone my showing skills. At the IL Championship Show, I am the only showman to achieve Junior, Intermediate, Senior Showmanship, and Showman-OfShowman titles all while I was just a 12-yearold showman. In the World Dairy Expo Showmanship contest, I have several top ten placings since my first try in 2009. I have been working on my clipping skills since I was old enough to hold the clippers steady. I started with the basics and keep working to perfect my clipping skills whether it be for maintenance, show preparation, or classification. Since beginning high school, I have been practicing my skills to prepare toplines including blowing up the hair, clipping it, and setting the toplines. For the past few years, I have been responsible for clipping and setting the toplines on the Erbacres string of 12 to 15 head at the Carroll County Fair. As I gain experience and practice, I am looking forward to doing more clipping at shows. continued on page 3 Summer 2020
Koester Family Honored with 2019 Herd of Excellence Award Holstein Association USA is proud to recognize 11 herds as 2019 Herds of Excellence. This coveted honor has been presented since 2008, and honors Registered Holstein® breeders who have developed herds excelling in both milk production and conformation at the most elite levels. The award is divided into three herd size divisions, based on the number of cows included in the herds’ milk production averages. The divisions are: 10 to 99 cows; 100 to 499 cows; and 500+ cows. To be recognized as a Herd of Excellence, a herd must have classified within the last year, and have an ageadjusted average classification score (AACS) of 83 points or higher; have at least 70 percent of the herd homebred; and be enrolled in the Association’s TriStarSM production records program. Additionally, qualifying herds must meet the following production criteria: 10 to 99 cows - 25 percent above breed average ME for milk, fat and protein 100 to 499 cows - 20 percent above breed average ME for milk, fat and protein 500+ cows - 15 percent above breed average ME for milk, fat and protein From Illinois and featured on the cover of this issue is the Koester family of Dakota.
Medium Herd Size Division (100-499 Cows) Koester Dairy Inc. – The Koester Family Dan & Cindy Koester Lance & Cynthia, Kyle & Cindy, Brent and Bria 97.2% homebred – AACS – 85.1 points ME Production Ave. – 33,634M 1,358F 1,056P Profiles on all of these impressive herds can be found in the Spring 2020 issue of The Pulse, available at www.holsteinusa.com under the Latest News tab. Here is the profile on the Koester family: Through forward thinking and steady decisions, the Koester family maintains a tradition of top-notch milk production. Koester Dairy Inc. leads their home state of Illinois in DHIA production. Dan Koester has grown the family operation using improved genetics and management. His parents, LaVerne and Clarice Koester, established the dairy in 1956. Starting as a herd of 28 grade Holsteins, steady expansion and consistent improvement has allowed their herd to grow to more than 330 Registered Holstein cows today. “We stress cow comfort, watch nutrition really closely and, of course, genetics,” Dan says. “We’re pretty aggressive about improving genetics.”
As the herd grew, the family focused on breeding functional, high-producing cows. They currently use bulls with good type and strong pedigrees. As they mate their herd they especially watch DPR, somatic cell count and components. The Koesters employ genetic data to make significant improvements, and all heifer calves are genomic tested. Dan says Registered Holsteins provide them the advantage to increase and accelerate herd genetics by studying pedigrees. Having data instantly accessible allows them to build on the herd’s overall production and functionality, he says. Each family member has a role in making Koester Dairy run smoothly, Dan says, and being able to work alongside them is something he doesn’t take for granted. Building on progress, with powerful genetic data at their fingertips, Koester Dairy has made significant improvements in overall production and functionality of the herd – and is poised for the future.
continued from page 2 Success in the show ring is not made at the show, but at home, year-round. All of the hard work and dedication that goes in at home is what makes all of this possible. The early mornings feeding and milking, the late nights clipping and leading, as well as the late nights in the tractor planting and harvesting ALL build for success. Everything from crop production to proper breeding and management practices make for good, healthy animals. They also need proper nutrition to maximize growth and to achieve maximum milk production. All of this work at home and in the showring afforded me the opportunity to be named the 2019 World Dairy Expo Judi Collinsworth Award and the 2019 Overall Judi Collinsworth Award. I have had the opportunity to help Erbsen Cattle Photography on dairies in Illinois, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, Iowa, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Minnesota. This has given me the opportunity to see many different management styles, breeding programs, and management practices. I have seen small 40 cow tie stall facilities, robot herds, and large 1,000 cow operations in Wisconsin, scenic dairies in the hills of Pennsylvania and New York, as well as the large dry lot, rotary, and parlor dairies in Texas and New Mexico. The huge dirt lots, double 40 milking parlors, and the rotary parlors of these large-scale dairies interest me as their management styles vary greatly from those of small Midwestern dairies like ours. Junior Holstein activities are always
something to look forward to, allowing me to make new friends around the country, tour other farms, become a better leader, and so much more. After three months of dairy bowl preparation, it starts with the Illinois “Spring Thing” Junior Convention and the opportunity to compete in Dairy Bowl, Dairy Jeopardy, Speech, and Poster contests. I have consistently placed in the top 10 individuals for Dairy Bowl and was a member of the 2015 IL champion team. In 2014, I earned the honor of the Kyle Mitchell Outstanding Dairy Bowl Award. I have competed in National Junior Holstein Conventions in Missouri, Indiana, Iowa, Illinois, New York, Washington, Wisconsin, and hopefully Pennsylvania. In 2013, I placed 1st in the national Junior Dairy Jeopardy contest in Indiana. In 2014, I was the captain of the IL Junior Dairy Bowl Team that placed 2nd in the National Holstein Convention in Iowa. In 2015 I was the captain of the winning Junior Dairy Bowl team, and a National YDJM Finalist in Illinois. National Holstein Convention has long been one of the highlights of my summer! In high school I served as President and Treasurer of our Eastland FFA Chapter, as well as the Treasurer for Illinois FFA Section 1. I was also the chairman for our Test Plot Committee, where we farmed 42 acres, providing most of our chapter’s income to fund our activities and competitions. I also competed in many of our local and state competitions, but it was the dairy judging competition that was a favorite of mine. As a member of the winning state judging team, I was able to compete at
the National FFA Convention where I was the high-placing individual and a member of the 4th place team. As a result of this, my team and I were invited to Europe to judge at the Royal Highland Show in Scotland and the Luxembourg National Holstein Show. While in Luxembourg, I had the incredible opportunity to stay with the Thein family. While staying with the Theins, I was able to stay at their farm, as well as work for them at the Luxembourg National Holstein Show where they exhibited the Grand Champion Cow. I am very grateful for the opportunity to learn from the Thein family, as well as exhibit some of their animals at their national Holstein show. In addition to my work on my home farm, I have also been able to gain experience through internships with Baker Precision Planter Works, White Oak Agri-Solutions, Monsanto, Hartung Brothers Inc., and Precision Planting this coming summer. I am currently a sophomore at Iowa State University, majoring in Agronomy and minoring in Ag Systems Technology and Animal Science. I am also involved in our Agronomy Club, AST Club, Beginning Farmers Network, and our Dairy Science Club. In the future, I look forward to continuing to grow my Holstein herd and mentor younger members in the Junior Holstein Association. I also look forward to expanding my own grain and hemp farming operation, as well as pursuing a career in the agronomy and ag technology fields.
Illinois Holstein Herald
Page 3
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
Page 6 Page 6 Page 7 Page 6 Page 6 Page 6 Page 6 Page 6 Page 6 Page 6 Page 6 Page 6 Page 6 Page 6
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
Page 6 Page 7 Page 6 Page 7 Page 6 Page 6 Page 6 Page 6 Page 7 Page 6 Page 6 Page 6 Page 7 Page 6
FEATURES Advertisers.....................................................................................................................4 Board Meeting..............................................................................................................8 Calendar..........................................................................................................................5 Dutchess Domain..................................................................................................... 10 From the President.....................................................................................................9 Herd of Excellence Award.........................................................................................3 Illinois Championship Show....................................................................................5 Illinois Holstein Dutchess.........................................................................................5 Illinois Holstein Futurity............................................................................................5 Junior Journeys................................................................................................... 10,11 Junior Officers & Advisor Team............................................................................ 11 National DJM Semifinalist.................................................................................... 2,3 National Holstein Updates................................................................................... 5,9 Obituary...................................................................................................................... 8,9 Page 4
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 Rolling Lawns Farms Schaufine Farms Select Sires Smith, Ed
Page 6 Page 7 Page 7 Page 7 Page 7 Page 7 Page 7 Page 7 Page 7 Page 7 Page 7 Page 7 Page 12 Page 5
Sunshine Genetics Thorman Dairy Farm Von-View Dairy Farm Wild Genetics/Triple-Hil Sires Will-Can-Do Holsteins Winter Dairy Farm Zehrview Holsteins
Page 5 Page 7 Page 7 Page 5 Page 7 Page 7 Page 7
ON THE COVER Featured on the cover of this issue are Connor Erbsen, 2020 National Distinguished Junior Member Semifinalist and the Koester family, 2019 Herd of Excellence Award recipient. Congratulations to Connor and the Koesters on receiving these prestigious National Holstein awards and thank you for representing Illinois Holsteins so well! View their stories in this issue.
Volume 82, Number 2
Summer 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 June 17, 2020
Summer 2020
2020 Illinois Championship Holstein Show
Visit Us Online! illinoisholsteins.com facebook.com/IllinoisHolsteins facebook.com/IllinoisJuniorHolsteinAssociation
CALENDAR 6/25 6/27 6/30 7/1 7/1 7/8-10 7/15 9/5
Holstein Association USA Virtual Meeting *see below Southern IL District Show, Greenville Northwest IL District Show, Freeport IL Championship Holstein Show Early Entry Deadline IL Holstein Dutchess & Little Miss Holstein Early Deadline IL Championship Holstein Show, Bloomington Holstein Association USA Junior Ownership Deadline Fall Herald Advertising Deadline
*additional event information available at: www.illinoisholsteins.com
NATIONAL MEETING Holstein Association USA Virtual Meeting Slated for June 25 Holstein Association USA, Inc. will host a Virtual Member Update Meeting Thursday, June 25, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time. It will feature the President’s Address, CEO’s State of the Association Address, and the 2019 Financial Report. Details on how to register for the webinar will be posted on www.holsteinusa.com. The virtual format comes as the traditional face-to-face Annual Meeting has been postponed until 2021, when the National Convention will be held in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. This decision was made by the board of directors because of the unprecedented conditions created by the COVID-19 pandemic. CEO John Meyer states, “The current environment provides a unique opportunity to update the dairy community on the good things that are happening at the Holstein Association USA. We invite you to join us June 25th.” Further updates on the Holstein Association Virtual Member Update Meeting on June 25th at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time will be posted at www. holsteinusa.com.
2020 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Wednesday, July 1st - Early entry deadline Wednesday, July 1st - Futurity entry deadline Monday, July 6th - Set-up is allowed after 12 p.m. Tuesday, July 7th - Cattle may arrive no earlier than 8 a.m. Wednesday, July 8th - Exhibitor Meeting at 1 p.m. Cattle must be checked in by 2 p.m. Illinois Holstein Dutchess & Little Miss Holstein Contests 5:30 p.m. Thursday, July 9th - Dutchess Crowning 8:30 a.m. Illinois Championship Junior Show & Showmanship Contest Friday, July 10th - 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 Contestants must be at least 15 years old and not yet 22 years old as of January 1. Dutchess contestants must be members of the Illinois Junior Holstein Association, but are not required to own a Registered Holstein. Little Miss Holstein Eligibility Contestants must be 6 years of age, but not yet 10 as of January 1 to participate in the Little Miss Holstein contest. Little Miss Holstein contestants must be members of the Illinois Junior Holstein Association, but are not required to own a Registered Holstein. Awards The Illinois Holstein Dutchess will receive a scholarship award. Each Little Miss Holstein contestant will receive a prize package. How to Apply Visit www.illinoisholsteins.com/juniors/dutchess For additional details and to apply, contact: Lori Lyons, Dutchess Chair at (815) 988-7102 or moolyons@aol.com HOTEL INFORMATION Country Inn & Suites (309) 828-7177 *reserve rooms by June 29 for discounted rate SHOW CHAIRS Amy Raber (815) 867-0694 Todd Irwin (217) 871-9800
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
Page 6
The Lenkaitis Family 6N411 Corron Road, St. Charles, IL 60175 lenkaitis.holsteins@gmail.com - www.lenkaitisholsteins.com
Summer 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
RH
R-HOMESTEAD HOLSTEINS
20244 N. 24th Ave. Nokomis, IL (217)563-2846 David & Lenore Ruppert Marc, Lora, Landon, Kaylee & Logan Hilgendorf
Place your Breeder Ad HERE! Published 4x/year Contact: Stephanie Hammerly 608-732-2757 briardesigns@gmail.com
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
Illinois Holstein Herald
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
Page 7
BOARD MEETING June 1, 2020 · Gridley, IL The Executive Committee of the Illinois Holstein Association met June 1 at Carol Jones’ house in Gridley. The meeting of the Illinois Holstein Board of Directors was cancelled due to state guidelines on gathering size. Steve Irwin, Ed Smith, Herb Schmiedeskamp, Kevin Wendling, Dale Drendel, Aaron Heinzman, John Erbsen were present along with Treasurer Carol Jones, Secretary Sarah Lenkaitis and Editor Stephanie Hammerly. President Steve Irwin called the meeting to order at 11:15am. Secretary Sarah Lenkaitis distributed copies of the minutes from the January Executive Committee and Board of Directors meetings. It was moved by Ed Smith to approve the minutes, seconded by Herb Schmiedeskamp and the motion carried. Carol Jones presented the Treasurer’s Report. The association paid $340 for the PDCA Calf Sale ad in the Midwest Holsteins issue since the sale was cancelled. Typically, the cost is covered by the Holstein calf consigners. Carol also provided an investment performance review. Kevin Wendling moved to approve the Treasurer’s Report, Aaron Heinzman seconded, and the motion carried. Stephanie Hammerly gave the Editor’s report. She is currently working on the summer issue of the Illinois Holstein Herald. This issue is not scheduled to be a part of Midwest Holsteins. After discussion, it was decided not to participate in the fall issue of the Midwest Holsteins since the state will not be hosting a sale in 2020. For the Holstein USA report, Dale reminded the Executive Committee of the July 15 deadline for junior transfers for national shows. He also mentioned there was a coupon in the Spring 2020 Holstein Pulse for 10 free registrations. OLD BUSINESS Tentatively, the Effingham Club will host the 2021 State Convention. Kevin Wendling reported the club has not had an opportunity to meet to discuss, but they are reviewing potential dates and a venue. NEW BUSINESS Herb Schmiedeskamp reported the Futures Sale held in conjunction with the State Convention broke even. The sale grossed $21,350 and 13 live/choice lots averaged $1,371.15. The PDCA Calf Sale was cancelled. Carol Jones and Sarah Lenkaitis gave an update on membership applications as of May 25. There are currently 155 Junior members and 330 Senior members. Membership forms were sent in early February, and a reminder form was sent in early April. Executive Committee members were provided with a list of unpaid members with contact information to encourage them to send in their membership renewal. In order for clubs to receive rebate money, membership dues must be received by August 1. State Show Committee Chair Amy Raber joined the meeting to discuss the Illinois Championship Show. She provided information from
fairgrounds management and local police department surrounding guidelines on hosting events. The Executive Committee also reviewed pertinent information from the Restore Illinois plan. Following discussion, Herb Schmiedeskamp moved to hold the Illinois Championship Show with the location to be finalized on Monday, June 29. Ed Smith seconded the motion, and paper ballots were distributed. The motion passed 6-0. Past exhibitors will receive a letter with entry details. A waiver, similar to the one used for the Midwest Spring Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey and Milking Shorthorn show recently held in Monroe, will be drafted and need to be signed by exhibitors and family. The Executive Committee agreed communication regarding the show on social media needs to be limited. A private Facebook group will be set-up and exhibitors will be invited to join. Amy Raber will continue contacting corporate sponsors and begin contacting breeders about opportunities to support the show. The Illinois Holstein Dutchess and Futurity contests will continue as planned. The Executive Committee will monitor the ever-changing situation over the coming weeks while the State Show Committee continues planning for the show. The Executive Committee will reconvene via a conference call on Monday, June 29 to confirm conditions still allow the association to hold the show. This includes confirming the date and location of the show. As of now, the show is scheduled to be held at the Interstate Center in Bloomington. However, as a precautionary measure two other options (the Adams County Fairgrounds in Quincy and the Logan County Fairgrounds in Lincoln) are being explored should we need an alternate location. Following the Executive Committee conference call, the confirmed date and location will be communicated to exhibitors. Aaron Heinzman made a motion for District Shows to not be required for members to show at 2020 Illinois Championship Show. Ed Smith seconded, and the motion carried. Sarah Lenkaitis will contact chairs for each district show regarding if they need a show box. National Holstein Convention was cancelled. Dale Drendel reported all National board members and officers currently seated will have their current terms extended one year. The 2021 delegate election will follow its normal timeline. Pennsylvania will host the convention in 2021. Steve Irwin is looking for a location in Southern Illinois for this year’s picnic. Contact him if you have a potential host. Ed Smith made a motion to provide Carol Jones with $10 per person for hosting and providing lunch to the Executive Committee. John Erbsen seconded, and the motion carried. Aaron Heinzmann moved to adjourn the meeting at 2pm. Kevin Wendling seconded, and the motion carried. Respectfully submitted, Sarah Lenkaitis, Secretary
OBITUARY Albert J. Lenkaitis Albert Joseph Lenkaitis Sr., age 75, passed away Sunday, May 10, 2020 at his home in St. Charles, IL. A life-long agricultural enthusiast, he was born August 26, 1944 in Spring Valley, IL and raised in nearby Granville on his family’s dairy farm. He met his true love, Mary Etta (Capitani) on February 10, 1961 when the two were set-up on a date for a school dance. They were married on June 24, 1967 and enjoyed 53 years together. They have four children and 11 grandchildren. Albert graduated from the University of Illinois on June 1, 1966 with a degree in ag economics and dairy science. He briefly worked in construction before beginning a job at a grain elevator. There, he was given a chance to work for the company as a trader at the Chicago Board of Trade – a job that flourished into a 53-year career. He abruptly left March 17, 2020 when he was unable to continue due to his lung cancer diagnosis. Page 8
His escape from the hustle and bustle of working in the city was the family’s dairy farm. Albert and Mary Etta purchased the farm in 1983 as it was located next to their home in St. Charles, IL. The couple wanted to seize the opportunity to reconnect to the industry and the lifestyle. Although the landscape around them has changed with urban sprawl, the couple has been steadfast in making the farm sustainable for future generations of the family to enjoy. Most recently, they built a new dairy barn outfitted with technology including robotic milkers. While this dairy farmer rarely milked a cow, he drove tractors every evening after work and on weekends. If he wasn’t in a tractor, you would likely find him in the farm shop. There, he would work on anything that needed fixing and could tell you the location of every tool and part in the crammed cabinets and shelves. At any Kane County 4-H, Illinois Holstein Association or National Red and White Dairy Cattle Association event, you could count on your conversation with him to include the latest news on the agricultural commodity markets or a funny joke. You could also count on him to have a pipe, cup of coffee or both in-hand. continued on page 9 Summer 2020
FROM THE PRESIDENT
NATIONAL UPDATES
Coronavirus. Quarantine. Social Distancing. COVID-19. Global Pandemic. Essential Worker. NonEssential Worker. Second Wave. Dr. Anthony Fauci. Flatten The Curve. Toilet Paper Shortage. Just a few months ago, I think it’s safe to say that most of these words or phrases were unfamiliar to all of us. Isn’t it absolutely mind-blowing how the world we live in has been turned on its head in such a short period of time? Has our government handled things correctly? I don’t know. Maybe not, but one thing I have noticed, almost everyone has an opinion on the matter!! And most are not shy about voicing it, either. When the Stay-At-Home order first went into effect, I had mentioned to Ann Marie that hopefully an unexpected benefit of this crisis would be that families become closer. Maybe parents would actually get to know their children a little better. Children would learn life-lessons from their parents, instead of just seeing them in passing. Spouses would help each other out at home with the kids, household chores, and yard work. Families would bond while eating home-cooked meals, making puzzles, and playing board games, instead of eating fast food in the car while rushing to another sporting event. And maybe – just maybe – everyone would appreciate what we HAVE, as opposed to what we WANT. Is this actually happening? It will depend on the attitudes of the adults in the room. Are YOU handling this Global Pandemic in the best possible way? Are YOU keeping a positive attitude? Or have you pretty much thrown it the towel? We can’t always change what is happening to us, but we CAN change how we react to it. Be mindful that people are watching us. Our children. Our grandchildren. What message do you want them to pick up on? I challenge each and every one of you to try this little exercise: find a quiet time – maybe while brushing your teeth – or maybe as you lay your head on your pillow at night – and think of THREE things that you are thankful for. Just THREE things. And no, it can’t be “my spouse, my kids, and my dog Rusty” every time!! Come up with different things every night. Sure, it can be difficult after a rough day when the manure spreader broke down, the cows got out, and your hay got rained on, but try it anyway! Maybe you are thankful for the beautiful sunrise, the sick cow that seems to have turned the corner, and the fact that when you stepped in that gopher hole, your ankle didn’t swell as much as you thought it would. Try it for a month and see what happens. You might surprise yourself. Are YOU doing all you can do to make the best out of a bad situation? We can all try harder. Why not start today?
Steve Irwin
continued from page 8 The people closest to him will remember him for his witty banter. Albert was known to ask challenging questions and put forward challenging ideas. Although frustrating in the moment, it always resulted in his unwavering support – if you were willing to put in the work. Many can attest to how the unconventional approach pushed them to go further, reshaped their ideas and enriched their lives. These stories from friends and family are an important part of his legacy and some of his proudest moments. Albert is survived by his son Albert, Jr. (Rhonda) and their children, Briley, AJ, Caden and Denver; daughter, Elizabeth (James) and their children, JT, Katelyn and Ella; daughter, Victoria (Ryan) and their children Ethan, Isabel and Marshall; and son, Andrew (Sarah) and their son, Lucas. Private services were held May 14, 2020 at Yurs Funeral Home in St. Charles. A celebration of life memorial will be scheduled later in the year as conditions allow.
Illinois Holstein Herald
Here we go again! Just as the agriculture community recovers from last year, another crisis happens. Everybody is facing different times than normal! Your Association is doing their best during these times also. Many employees have been working from home during these times. As you have been informed, the National Convention has been postponed. An update member meeting will take place on June 25th (details on page 5). Every possible effort went into trying to continue with the convention this year. After all efforts, your Board of Directors made the decision for postponement. All officers and board terms have been extended one year. Delegate election will proceed as normal for the next convention. Hopefully everyone took advantage of the 10 free registrations during May. More deep pedigreed bulls have just been released through Holstein Marketplace, check them out! As we try to adjust to summer shows, family outings, and community activities, we will be able to write a book on how all things have changed from normal. Holstein USA is trying its best to provide service as quickly as possible. Please be patient and we’ll get through this together!
Your National Directors, Corey Geiger, President Jonathan Lamb, Vice President Dale Drendel Spencer Hackett Robert Webb
Every Kane County Fair, Albert would be ringside watching his children (and more recently grandchildren) showing their favorite animals. He believed in the impact of youth agricultural programs and served as the Dairy Superintendent and on the Blue Ribbon Sale committee. Therefore, in lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider honoring Albert’s memory with a donation to the Kane County 4-H Foundation 535 S. Randall Road, Ste A, St. Charles, IL 60174.
Page 9
DUTCHESS DOMAIN
JUNIOR JOURNEYS
Hello everyone! First, I would like to thank all of my fellow Illinois breeders for allowing me the opportunity to serve as your representative for our Illinois Holstein Association. The experience during my year has been very exciting! My passion has been to showcase our awesome breed and the dairy industry as a whole. My journey started right away at the Illinois State Fair with getting to present the Grand Champion Holstein Award and Overall Supreme Champion Award to a good friend whom I’ve grown up showing with, Rosalee Zehr, another fellow Junior member. While at the state fair, I spent several days in the Dairy Building working with both the youth and adults of our communities. Not too long after the fair, I traveled up north to help with the open house for the Gunderson family. It was neat to see people come through to visit both the animals and see their new robotic milking operation. The fall of 2019 brought more excitement. At World Dairy Expo, I was asked to be a Holstein Representative on the infamous colored shavings for the International Junior Holstein Show. I was quite eager to say yes, then run to tell my Mom! Watching the show from inside the ring was a stance in which I was so grateful for. The opportunity to present medallions, awards and banners to all of the junior breeders throughout the day was very rewarding. To see the spark or tear in each junior’s eye was an experience that one does not get to do just every year. During the winter months, I was busy with the Illinois Junior Holstein Association Officer team with collecting auction items for the Senior Convention. The auction was held in February, and this was the most successful auction we have had for raising funds for the Juniors. Later in February, the Junior Spring Thing was held in Peoria. It was great to see my fellow junior members and friends! In addition, our annual quiz bowl and dairy jeopardy events were held. And, all of my many hours of studying paid off for I was able to achieve a goal of being the top senior quiz bowl member and was presented with a Kyle Mitchell Quiz Bowl Award. Special thank you to the Mitchells! The spring of 2020 has brought us a complete turn in time. We are seeing so many new situations during this COVID-19 time. This has brought us all together for strength via social media and cell phones. The struggle has been so real. Many dreams and futures have been crushed, jobs have been lost, milk has been dumped. Hard decisions have been made by us all on how to move ahead with our farming operations. And, the excitement we all have to go show and present our hard work has been stomped on, however, we will prevail and pull through this extremely hard time stronger and better together. In the end, we have all received the exciting announcement! There WILL be a show. Our Illinois State Holstein Show for 2020 will be held. I hope we will have a great turnout for us to all gather and visit. It’s been so hard to be held back from seeing fellow neighbors, community members and friends. This will be the best opportunity. In addition, now we get to show off our hard work of breeding great heifers and cows. Let’s enjoy our time together in July of 2020. I would like to see all of us make a great memory together! Finally, I would like to reach out to my fellow Junior Holstein members to please apply and interview for the Illinois Holstein Dutchess position. As you can see, I have had many opportunities that have opened up more doors that I never imagined. You never know when that new step will be there for you to take. For all the young gentleman, we always need you to step up and escort all of our District Holstein Dutchesses and Little Miss Holsteins. I look forward to seeing you ALL in July!!
Addison Raber
Page 10
The Illinois Junior Holstein Association hosted Spring Thing on February 29th & March 1st in Peoria. Juniors participated in many different contests including dairy quiz bowl, speech, Dairy Jeopardy, photography, folding display, arts & crafts and Dairy Challenge. THANK YOU TO ALL OF THE SPRING THING VOLUNTEERS!
State Show
July 8th & 9th Interstate Center Bloomington
Showmanship Dutchess Contest Junior Show Little Miss Holstein Contest SEE YOU THERE! Jr. Holstein Meeting Summer 2020
2020 JUNIOR SPRING THING 2020-2021 OFFICERS & ADVISOR TEAM
President: Briley Lenkaitis Vice President: Jacob Raber Secretary: Allyson Aves Treasurer: Addie Raber Reporter: Magen Busker Adult Advisors: Al Lenkaitis Phone: 630-561-9514 Amy Raber Phone: 815-867-0694 Angela Kiefer-Paul Phone: 618-781-7751
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) Magen Busker, Allyson Aves, Ben Brenner, (L-R middle) Drew Lueking, Lars Carlson, Nevin Erbsen, (L-R front) Kyle Ainger, Justin Irwin, Delana Erbsen & Lila Sloan
The Top 10 Senior Dairy Bowl Contestants (L-R back) Addie Raber, Jared Dickman, Zach Paul, (L-R middle) Rosalee Zehr, Rachel Scidmore, Regan Scidmore, Briley Lenkaitis, (L-R front) Hannah Albert, Payton Erbsen & Connor Erbsen
Kyle Mitchell Dairy Bowl Awards (L-R) Addie Raber, John Mitchell & Drew Lueking
Junior Dairy Jeopardy (L-R) 1st Drew Lueking, 2nd Alaina Dinderman & 3rd Katelyn Dorn
Intermediate Dairy Jeopardy (L-R) 1st Addie Raber, 2nd Delana Erbsen & 3rd Allyson Aves
Senior Dairy Jeopardy (L-R) 1st Connor Erbsen, 2nd Jared Dickman & 3rd Rachel Scidmore
Arts & Crafts (L-R) 1st Ashtyn Martin, 2nd Denver Lenkaitis & 3rd Kyle Clanton
Photography (L-R) Addie Raber, Alaina Dinderman & Koralyn Wick
Intermediate Speech Contest (L-R) 1st Allyson Aves & 2nd Lila Sloan
View more results and photos on the Illinois Junior Holstein Association Facebook page Illinois Holstein Herald
Page 11
DRIVEN BY YOUR GOALS
FOCUSED ON YOUR FUTURE
CUSTOMIZED FOR YOUR OPERATION
INCREASES GENETIC VALUE
SUPPORTED WITH TRUSTED SERVICE
Visit www.selectsires.com/profitmax to learn how you can put your herd on the path to greater profitability and to view a video series about the pillars of ProfitMAX!
Page 12
Summer 2020 ProfitMAX is a registered trademark of Select Sires Inc.
®