Humming Herald Fall 2014

South Central Llama Association

g n i m m d l u a H Her

Fall 2014 l Number 96

FALL 2014 Contents General Interest A quarterly publication of the South Central Llama Association.

www.scla.us/scla.html

SCLA OFFICERS (Term 09/2011- 09/2014)

President: Sean Price • 281-830-2368 • figranch@flash.net Vice President: Bill Simpson •(409) 625-0309 OR (972) 978-6229 • N5YA@N5YA.com Secretary: Adryce Mathisen, •682) 551-7799 (cell); (817) 866-4368 • adryce@att.net Treasurer: Bob Lyons • 210-497-3151 • boblyons1@satx.rr.com

REGIONAL DIRECTORS

Region One: (Area codes: 210-361-512-737-830-956) Susan Leslie (09/2011-09/2014) (830)401-0819 leslielanellamas@gmail.com Region Two: (Area cades: 214-405-430-469-479-501-580903-918-972) Bob Carroll (903) 229-8029(Term: 9/2013-9/2016) rcranch1@yahoo.com Region Three: (Area codes:254-325-432-682-817 806-940-915-505) Deborah Ignacio (09/2012- 09/2015) 817-454-8882 deborah.ignacio@yahoo.com Region Four: (Area codes: 281-318-346-409-504-713832-936-979-985) Trisha McKaskle 979-378-20759 (Term: 9/2013 - 9/2016) hitekllama@aol.com Director-At-Large: Jim Doyle (Term: 9/2011 - 9/2014) 940-482-3192: cell 940-391-1862 JDoyle@marikollamas.com

SCLA COMMITTEES

Activities.................................................... No chair at this time Membership..............................................................Karen Conyngham Nomination . ............................Marcie Saska-Agnew-chairperson Property.....................................................................Sean Price Fund Raising..................................................................... Open Youth................................................................ Christie Stewart Finance - Budget..............................Bob Lyons • Dan Johnson Librarian.............................................................Barbara Welch Conference................................................ No chair at this time National Lama Intervention & Rescue Coordination Council Scholarship........................................ .........Mary Nell Doyle - Chair .............................Susan Boblyanski, Adryce Mathisen, Brenda Gilmore SCLA Booth............................................... No chair at this time Web site......................................................... Sharon Bramblett By-Laws.............................................................Jim Doyle, Bev Johnson

Americas Show Camels.................................................................................... 9 Caring For The Down Llama......................................................................... 13

Home Made Llama Sling.....................................................................................15 Working With Rescued Llamas..........................................................................16 Not All Champions Are In The Showring.......................................................18 Llama Geoglyphs In The Atacama Desert Of Northern Chile................20 Final Report “Understanding Genes that Cause Disease “......................22 Fiber as a Business.................................................................................................23 Have Shears Will Travel..............................................................................................26 Sportsmanship.......................................................................................................28 How To Take A Vacation From The Farm........................................................30 A Good Deed Brings Unexpected Reward For SCLA.................................32 25 Years Of Excellence In Camelid Medicine................................................34 From Social To, To Sales......................................................................................38 A Story That,s Sliently Begging To Be Told....................................................40 KooKoo’s Adventure In The Great Llama Race............................................42 Marketing That Fiber............................................................................................46 Why Invest In Research........................................................................................48 Ask the CSU Vet Team...........................................................................................50

Always Inside President’s Statement............................................................................................4 VP Views.................... .................................................................................................4 .

Editor’s Note..............................................................................................................5 New Members........................................................................................................... 6 Dates Ahead.............................................................................................................. 6 SCLA Library............................................................................................................52 Display Advertisers................................................................................................54 SCLA Membership Form.....................................................................................55

Photo by Sharon Bramblett

SHOWS - Thanks For Volunteering Your Time!

Teresa Brruening..........................................State Fair of Texas-Dallas Jim Doyle............................Southwestern Livestock and Rodeo-Fort Worth Stephanie Clark.........................................West Texas Fair & Rodeo-Abilene Di Collins..........................................................San Angelo Livestock Show- San Angelo Trisha McKaskle...........................................Houston Livestock Show

EDITOR/DESIGN/LAYOUT

Ruby Herron 17102 Mueschke Rd., Cypress, TX 77433 713-249-8523 • HummingHerald@FigmentRanch.com

The views expressed herein are those of the authors. Before undertaking any new regime with your llamas, you should always consult with your veterinarian. Only they can tell you what is best for your situation. We invite submission for unpaid articles and photographs.

Email to HummingHerald@FigmentRanch.com or mail to: Ruby Herron, c/o Humming Herald,17102 Mueschke Rd., Cypress,Tx., 77433

President’s Statement

VP Views

Bill Simpson, Vice President

Sean Price, President

Hi guys!

Greetings from Deep East Texas!

How was your summer? I hope everything went well for you! It is difficult to do much with our llamas during the heat but at least we get to watch and love on them, right?

I hope this finds everyone enjoying their summer.

I know the Llamas and Alpacas enjoy the cool temputures a lot more than they enjoy the heat in the summer.

It has been very quiet. In fact, I haven’t heard from any of you this summer. Don’t forget, it any of you have an issue or concern about SCLA, please contact me, 281-830-2368 or sean@ figmentranch.com . We all need to work together to keep the llama industry alive!

You know, I often wonder about our crew... it is raining and miserable weather from my view... but the llamas and the alpacas are out at the hay bales and lying out in the rain. Sure wouldn’t want them to get dry in the barn. What can you say? You have to love ‘em for all their crazy behavior!

I wanted to especially thank Ruby Herron, Karen Conyngham, and any other members that have contributed to our wonderful newsletters!

Because our newsletters are so informative, we have actually gotten a new member for 2014 from Colorado.

We hope to see you all at the shows the SCLA offers. A complete list of the shows is on the SCLA website here: http://scla.us/ Y’all have a great year and best wishes from our place to yours!

I’ll talk to you all soon!

Sean 281-830-2368 or sean@figmentranch.com

Bill Simpson Vice President, SCLA Lost Acres Ranch Milam, Texas

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

Editor’s Note Hello Everyone.

I hope your summer went well, mine did! The heat did not seem as bad!

Inside this Fall Edition of the 2014 Humming Herald has many articles about Fiber.

It is wonderful to see some of the llama’s bi-products being put to such great work.

Also inside this edition of the HH you will also see the upcoming show schedule. Pick some of them out to attend …….. Let’s support our fellow llama enthusiasts.

And don’t forget your area Regional Competition and of the ALSA Grand National Show that is in Park City Kansas on Oct. 24-26. That is close to us!

Let’s show some SCLA spirit!

Blessings, Ruby 713-249-8523 or hummingherald@fimentranch.com

John John posing in front of his new home.

This is really “Yard Art:”

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New Members May 9 - August 8, 2014

Compiled by Karen Conyngham, Membership Secretary.

Current member information is always available on the SCLA web site: http://www.scla.us SCLA Address: PO Box 163654, Austin, TX 78716 New Members: Dr. Nicole Brown & Jordan Montgomery, TX 77356 Christina Kammerer Purcon Valley Farms PO Box 420 Purdon TX 76679-0420 (903) 641-9166 c.kammerer@yahoo.com Member Contact Updates: New address only: Lorna Strudell 479 Twin Canyon Dr. Boerne, TX 78006-5810

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

Dates Ahead September 8-9, 2014

West Texas Fair and Rodeo Llama Show Expo Center of Taylor County 1700 Hwy. 36 Abilene, TX 79602 Superintendent: Sam McClure Arrival Date: September 8th Arrival Time: 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm For more information, see: http://www.taylorcountyexpocenter.com/events_ detail.aspx?id=81 --------------------------------------------

September 19 - 20, 2014

2014 Central Regional Championship Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Penny Thomas Show Contact: Jim Doyle Judge: Eran McCarty -------------------------------------------September 19-21, 2014 2014 Oklahoma State Fair Llama Show 3001 General Persing Blvd.

405-387-9413 Oklahoma City, OK 73010 Show Contact: Joy Swihart swihart@pldi.net Judge: Lora Crawford ----------------------------------------------

October 4-5, 2014 - NEW DATE!!

State Fair of Texas Llama Show State Fairgrounds Dallas, TX Entry Sept. 1, 2014 is the last day to register and September 15th is the last day for late registration.

Show Superintendent: Terri Bruening Check-in Deadline is Friday October 3 by 6 PM Show: All Performance Classes and Showmanship Saturday October 4 9:00AM start All Halter Classes and Junior Judging Contest Sunday October 5 8:00 AM start Begin Release Sunday October 5 3:00 PM For more details, see the Exhibitor’s Handbook (llama show begins on p. 83) http://bigtex.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/14_sft_livestockhandbook_1-28.pdf

October 10-12, 2014

Lonestar Llama Showdown Bell County Expo Center 301 West Loop 121,Belton, TX 76513 Superintendent: Courtnee Benson Onsager Email: courtneeonsager@live.com (512)751-6943 Entry Deadline: Sept. 26, 2014 Judges: Bill Schultz- Hammond, WI Nick Hauptly - Iowa City, IA Show Schedule: Friday: Arrive anytime after 8 am to the facility Saturday: 8 am - Performance Show begins 6:30 pm - Complimentary Dinner (silent auction closes after dinner) Sunday: 8 am - Halter Show begins Complimentary Lunch For more information, see: http://www.thelonestarshowdown.com/The_Lonestar_Llama_Showdown/Home.html -----------------------------------

October 23-26, 2014

Greater Appalachian Llama & Alpaca Assoc. Annual Conference Marriott Sable Oaks Hotel Portland, Maine, USA The Greater Appalachian Llama and Alpaca Association (GALA) will be holding its 27th annual conference in Portland, Maine, at the Marriott Sable Oaks Hotel. GALA holds one of the nation’s most esteemed annual get-togethers with a strong emphasis on education for camelid owners.

This year’s headliners include Bernie Rollin, PhD philosophy professor and noted animal ethicist; Dr. David Pugh, legendary camelid veterinarian; Darrell Anderson, pedigreed Livestock Specialist and Llama Judge; John Mallon, trainer extraordinaire; Dr. Daniela Bedenice, Tufts veterinarian, professor and researcher; and Linda Cortright, publisher of Wild Fibers magazine. Always featured at GALA conferences is a magnificent Fiber Room with workshops and activities for all. Conference registration will begin in August.

In the meantime, you may view the headline speaker’s bios, a Conference description in flyer form, and book a hotel reservation on line at: http://www.galaonline.org/conference2014.html

-------------------------------------------November 7-9, 2014 Kid ‘n Ewe and Lamas Too Fiber Festival Kendall County Fairgrounds Boerne, TX Kid ‘N Ewe is Texas’s premier fiber arts festival for spinners, weavers, knitters, crocheters, felters, and anyone else who enjoys the wide variety of fiber arts.

Come shop for tools and supplies in our three vendor halls totaling over 30,000 square feet of nationally-known vendors who provide a wide variety of artisan made goods.

Try something new, or hone your skills, by taking one or more of our 50+ workshops taught by talented artists from Texas and surrounding states.

Visit the animals up close and personal in the animal barn and be on hand for demonstrations and sales.

Kid ‘N Ewe has something for everyone! Come join us!

Watch for workshop and vendor information: http://www.kidnewe.com/ --------------------------------------------

October 23-26, 2014

17th Annual ALSA Grand National Show of Champions The location will be in Park City, Kansas at the Kansas Pavilions Judges: Mary Jo Miller - Halter/Performance KY Rick Neal - Halter/Performance OH Beth Myers - Halter/Performance OH Karen Kinyon - Fiber CO For More Information: www.alsashow.org llamas@alsashow.org ------------------------------------------------------------------January 22-23, 2015 Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show Ft. Worth 3400 Burnett Tandy Dr. , Fort Worth, TX 76107 Show Info: http://www.fwssr.com Buzz Grant, CB Team, Dale Ousley 817-877-2400 Show Contact: Bruce McCarty bruce@fwssr.com Judge: TBA _________________________________________

February 13 - February 15, 2015 San Angelo Stock Show & Rodeo

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Entry Deadline: January 15, 2015 Late Entry accepted wiyh additional fees Judge: Bill Feick Halter & Performance Rob Knuckles Performance, Walking Fleese Show Superintendent: Diana Collins 325-716-3602 dcollins1017@suddenlink.net

hdmccleary@sbcglobal.net livestock@rodeohouston.com 832-667-1125 ----------------------------------------------------------------The SCLA Annual Business Meeting will be held at 8 AM on Sunday October 5th in the meeting room of the Pan Am arena, same site as last year.

March 19 - 22

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Entry Deadline : Feb.5 Late Entry Deadline: Feb 15 Entry forms available at rodeohouston.com by Nov. 1 All entries must be sumitted on the paper forms Superintendent: Danette Mars

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

If you have any agenda items for the meeting, please send them to Sean Price before

Sept. 26, 2014.

Sean’s email: figranch@flash.net Phone: (281) 830-2368

Dancing Dromedaries.

Majestic and magnificent in their beauty and rarity.

A one-of-a-kind, blue-eyed, paint camel.

For the first time in North America, people will get to see these rare spotted camels.

Although,babies in just their first year performing, they are thrilling audiences all over the world.

Making their American debut: Ian Garden, Jr. and America’s Show Camels!

Trainer: Ian Garden, Jr., born and raised in Canada, is third generation circus performer. Following in his father’s footsteps, after graduating from high school, Ian set out with his own animal acts working for various circuses across North America. Dogs, ponies and horses were his primary presentations, however years later Ian had the chance of presenting elephants, cats and now camels. “ Ian says although he really enjoys working with all animals, he has grown to love the camels. It’s amazing how intelligent, inquisitive and loving they can be.”

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Owner: Born in Milwaukee, Wis., Ryan literally grew up at Circus World Museum in Baraboo, home and winter quarters of the Ringling Brothers circus in the late 19th century. In addition to assisting in the big top performance, Ryan spent his summers working in the menagerie, interacting with and helping to care for a zoo of domestic and exotic animals - from giraffes, alpacas, llamas and camels, to horses, elephants, exotic cattle and goats. His uncle, Greg Parkinson, was the executive director at the museum for 18 years while his grandfather, Robert L. Parkinson, was the founder and director of the museum’s library and research center.

Over the years, Ryan developed a strong fascination for camels. After graduating in 2002, he visited a close friend’s exotic animal ranch, which specialized in camels, in Cape Girardeau, Mo. Before long, Ryan set out on a year-long tour with the Big Apple Circus, with a snow white camel liberty display.

The next year, Ryan took the camels on tour with the Greatest Show On Earth: Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus. After completing a two-year contract, the camels went home and Ryan continued working at RBBB, where he has been Assistant Animal Superintendent and Assistant Elephant Manager for over a decade.

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

America’s Show Camels can be booked for the following: • circus • movies • TV • fairs • nativity scenes • corporate events • hotel/casinos • rides • photos and an educational programs • We also offer a camel liberty display Call us at 941.526.6670 or by email at: ryan.henning@americasshowcamels.com www. americasshowcamels.com Follow / LIKE US on Facebook, America’s Show www.youtube.com/watch?v=suVSfsFcNaQ

* Our animals receive the absolute highest standards of care 24 hours a day, by the most knowledgeable and experienced animal care specialists.

We provide the animals with plenty of fresh food and water, daily exercise, a large herd to socialize with and the best veterinary care and medicine if needed, ensuring that all of our animals are healthy, alert and thriving and living longer, healthier, happier and safer lives in captivity.

The animals are all born and hand raised in captivity and are trained thru lots reward & repetition.

Everything you see the animals doing is based off their natural physical abilities and beauty, showcasing the animals playtime activities (Printrd with permission of Ryan Henning)

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Lone Star ranch Exotic Imported Show Llamas, Texas Longhorns & Scottish Highland Cattle

Gorgeous Argentine

P.O. Box 1184,Durant , OK 74702 3477 Co. Rd. 338, Melissa, TX 75454 lonestarranchoktx@gmail.com

LlAmAs With rAre genetics

Ranch 580.745.9202 Ranch 469.742.0110 Fax 580.745.9292

BLUEBONNET HILL LLAMAS Bob & Joan Lyons San Antonio, Texas 210.497.3151

Mary Adams of Wild Oak Llamas shows us how to multi-task.

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

Caring & Comfort for the Down Lama

By Cynthia Rossi

Diapers, hair dryers, Banixx spray, electric hoists, and good neighbors can provide comfort to a llama or alpaca who cannot rise! Caring for what were once called "easy to care for" pets for over two decades has required using basic, inexpensive and sensible items to benefit both lama and caregiver.

First obtain proper veterinary guidance to assess the needs of a llama or alpaca that cannot rise on its own.

Respected camelid experts agree that getting the animal to rise is essential to healing: the longer the animal is recumbent, the greater the chance that it will not rise again on its own. The time for accomplishing this varies with factors including the cause, the animal's condition and age.

Here are some products and actions that can be beneficial to all involved during the downtime.

Bedding Lowe's Home Improvement Centers carry lightweight but durable closed foam rubber matting that is sold by the foot. Located in the flooring section, this gray matting

is cut from huge rolls as requested by the customer. Because it is a closed cell foam, it does not absorb liquid and is lightweight thus

easy to carry outside to rise off. The cost is approximately $4.99 per linear foot and the width is three (3) feet. A six foot long section costs $30. If possible, buy two sections and use the extra while the first is drying. This foam matting has proved to be durable and affordable and is used as year round bedding over concrete resting areas for the llamas here.

Diapers and Keeping Dry Lying in urine and fecal matter is detrimental and a major challenge to proper care and healing. Place clean hay on the rubber mat and change whenever needed. Then place a diaper and/or bed underpad beneath the hind end of the lama and change when soiled.

Thrift stores often carry bags of donated adult diapers priced at $5 or less. Local discount stores and medical

supply/home health supply houses also sell them at affordable prices. Prepare to make at least four changes per 24 hours. These simple steps minimize or prevent sores and ulcerations while enhancing creature comfort.

Not Your Salon Blow Out It is essential to dry the skin and fiber. The diaper/ underpad will minimize the work involved. Old towels can be used to absorb urine from the skin and fiber.

Then blow dry (also available at thrift stores for a couple of dollars) and fluff the fiber to minimize irrita13

tion and maximize comfort. Drying time is just minutes with a high speed dryer. This step is critical in cold weather.

Treating Sores If a sore or irritation occurs, Banixx Wound Care or Zymox can be sprayed on the affected area. Both are available through livestock catalogs and farm stores.

They do not require a prescription, are non-irritating and promote healing. Two other products available at drug stores provide good protection: Zinc oxide cream and Baudreaux's Butt Paste, an Oprah favorite.

Exercise It is important to exercise the lama's legs. Place a blanket on the ground along side the lama and roll the

lama onto its side on the blanket. This is the easiest time to use the blow dryer. After drying, work each leg in a "range of motion" to prevent contracted muscles.

As the lama improves, you will notice increased action and reaction. Gently massage each leg. Then roll the lama onto its other side and repeat these steps. Ideally you will do this 3 to 4 times each day.

The Elevator Ride I hire help to assist lifting down lamas, for many years using a sling and a cumbersome ratchet type device. Recently lama owner friend Deb Arendas recommended a remote-controlled electric hoist available through Harbor Freight Tools. The 440 capacity model was on sale for $99.99 and the 880 pound capacity 14

Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

model was on sale for $124.99. You can order through an 800 number and often free shipping is offered. Both sizes include bolts and hangers. I purchased the 880 pound version and a kind neighbor installed it onto a 1 1 /2 inch solid steel bar that extends over the 5 1/2 foot wide wash stall in minutes. The sling was made by another neighbor years ago from a terry bath sheet that utilizes two Western style horse girths in the side seams.

Chains are attached to the buckles at each end of the girths and then attached to the chains (cut to desired lengths at the local hardware store). There are some good sling ideas availÂŹable on websites. I am going to have a local canvas/awning company custom make one. Initial sling time may be a minute or two once daily but frequency and time in the sling will increase as the lama gains strength.

Good Neighbors The lifting of a down llama is not a solitary pursuit.

Fortunately I have some wonderful neighbors and friends who have assisted over the years. Their generous efforts are supplemented with paid help who are here for 30 minute periods a couple of times daily when needed.

The One Thing So Much Practice Has Never Lessened A down lama here causes as much heartache today as it did years ago. I have found ways to minimize lama

discomfort but have found none to lessen my pain when dealing with a down lama.

Reprinted from the Pennsylvania Llama & Alpaca Assoc newsletter, The. Lama Letter, vol. 19, #2, May

Home Made Llama Sling I have received multiple pictures of llamas in rehab slings and we have fashioned a functional one out of ropes, pulleys, moving straps, and carpet! One man can lift [the llama] with this system (for one typical woman or a smaller man to lift her it would need 2 more pulleys and a hook).

The straps are moving straps from Lowe's on the shortest setting and the carpet is just some trimmed (for the front legs) spare carpet.

Very functional and works great!

Designed by Laura Woinoski

Reprinted from the SSLA Llama Journal, newsletter of the Southern States Llama Assoc.; Spring 2014

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Working with Rescue Llamas: A Passion for Some of the 4-H Love of Llamas Youth Group "JUNE 3, 2013 was the first day that five of the Love of Llamas group members that were chosen by Ms. Kim, the owner of the farm and starter of the club, to take on the biggest challenge they have ever done in llama club. That challenge was to raise five new llamas that the farm had recently received. Each kid was assigned to a different llama to train and establish trust. The llama's names are Teddy, Mable, Anya,Toccoa, and Mr. Cotton." (Journal entry by Savannah Short)

this is a lifelong commitment and SELR assists new llama owners by providing basic care information and connecting them with local "mentors" who are able to provide assistance on a more personal level.

What was the motivation behind bringing the five rescues into the Jackson County 4-H Love of Llama youth program? According to 4-H volunteer leader Kim Kyst, it was "to give experience to the youth of actually seeing what happens when animals aren't properly cared for and trained. It provides them the opportunity to test their skills and the knowledge they have been taught as well as allowing them to experience the difference they can make in the animals they are working with."

Those youth assigned to work with the llamas were: Heather Howell with Mabel, Shea Corley with Teddy, Emerson Laskey with Mr. Cotton, Bailey Jones with Toccoa, and Savannah Short and Lilly Howell with Anya.

Thus began the challenge of socializing the five llamas acquired as foster animals from the Southeast Llama Rescue (SELR). As stated within their website the "SELR mission is to protect the quality of life and The youth have been interactimprove the well being of ing with the rescued llamas on abused, neglected, unwanta regular basis since they ared and behaviorally unmanrived at the farm in May 2013. ageable llamas through Specific youth were selected prevention, education, to work more intensely with intervention, placement and these animals so that a bond lifelong care" according to would be formed and animalwww.southeastllamarescue.

Biley & Toccoa handler trust established; this org/aboutus.html. This nontakes time and patience. "The profit organization located in North Carolina has first thing that the group did was hold bowls of helped place many animals in loving and caring food out and wait for the Llama to come and eat. forever homes. SELR is entirely funded by donaWhen the llama was eating, the group's task was tions and adoption fees. As with any adoption, to try to pet their necks. If they were comfortable 16

Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

with the they would try to give them a gentle hug around the neck. The group did this to try to establish a little bit of trust with the llama," explains Savannah Short.

Bailey Jones writes in an early journal entry: "They have not been worked with a lot, but some of the 4-Hers have put their time into working with these animals and we have come a Iong way since we got them on the trailer to bring them home. The girls and boys who have worked with them have a special bond with them. Even though we have only had them for six weeks we have gone from not being able to put them on a trailer to walking them around people they have not worked with." What an improvement!

them more marketable for SELR is our goal."

A recap of the accomplishments with this group of rescues; we have taken on five llamas ages 6 months to approximately 6 years of age. Some of the animals have never had a halter on, they have never had up close encounters with humans.

Through commitment and regular interactions the youth have built trust with the animals. The rescues are now halter trained, they all easily load into a trailer, most nave exceeded our expectations and become wonderful public relations animals, and they have attended many of our scheduled community events and activities. Toccoa and Bailey connected so well that they have become a family. Toccoa is now in his forever

Part of working with animals is regrouping and reflecting on what methods have worked and what methods have not.

Through regular interaction, discussion, and journaling, the youth have taken a personal approach to socializing the rescued llamas.

'Since these llamas are new to our farm and haven't been handled very much, they are very skittish and even a slight movement can spook them. Overall, the main goal right now is just to help the llamas become halter/lead trained and friendly.

It will take lot of time, but it can be done."

(Journal entry by Heather Howell) "The goal," says Kyst, "is not for the youth to adopt the rescues, but to better the animals they are working with..., if a forever home comes out of the experience, that just is a blessing for the youth, their family, and the llama they saved.

Making the animals more desirable to the public and provide the animals skills that will make

Shea giving Teddy a kiss home. Some of the animals trained in this session are seeking forever homes. The youth have set personal goals to continue working with SELR in training and fostering rescues.

Reprinted from the SSLA Llama Journal, newsletter of the Southern States Llama Assoc.; Spring 2014 17

Not All Champions Are In The Showring

Determination is the main ingredient to success. Setting a goal for yourself is the easy part:

reaching it is where the blood, sweat and tears start to pour. To achieve what may seem as the impossible you must dig deep and stay focused. By understanding what it means to be determined, you can accomplish anything.

When I went to the llama show at the 2012 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo with Ruby,

Robin and Sean I was overwhelmed with excitement and fear. Being as shy as I was, the sheer thought of going to a new place with a lot of new people made me want to hide. After seeing

Amandah Johnson Herdsman Award 2013

what the rodeo had to offer, I was immediately intrigued. I’m not going to lie. At first walking into an arena with a bunch of llamas that are mainly known for spitting was not how I thought I was going to spend my spring break. Once I put my guard down, I got to learn a lot about the llamas. From their fiber to the many different types of body language they give off. I remember thinking to myself “how in the world do you judge a llama?” Very quickly after that thought, I found out. Watching them walk, jump, and run through the obstacles was a great sight to see.

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

One of the first things Sean told me to do was to keep the stalls clean and talk to people. Being

a teenager and having the urge to be on my phone; I got a little aggravated. I understood why I needed to clean the stalls I just couldn’t understand why a person in charge of me would tell me to talk to strangers, but I did what I was told to do. Later on that evening I found out there was a prize for the “*Herdsman Award”. Still not fully understanding what that meant, that herdsman was me and that the people with the clipboards weren’t constantly walking around to just take in the scenery. I was being judged and I didn’t realize it. Until the last night at the rodeo during dinner when they announced the winner for the award. I remember Ruby and Robin turning to me and telling me that they had always received third place. I didn’t like that nor, did I agree with it so I simply said next year I’m going to win first place.

The only way I was going to live up to what I promised was to find out what first place required and fulfill it. I was one hundred percent determined on winning in 2013 the First Place for best Herdsman Award for Figment Ranch and that’s exactly what I did. I also came back in 2014 and won first place and am looking forward in 2015 to a three-peat. I owe all of my success to determination.

“Simply setting my goals a few steps in front of me and walking straight into them.” *Herdsman Committee at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo gives a trophy each year to the ranch that meets the following criteria.

1. Attendant - Exhibitor being present and taking care of display. and Exhibitor interaction with public guest walking through.

2. Stalls - Clean of poop, neat and orderly 3. Halls - Keeping isles at their display swept and free of items that Amandah Johnson Herdsman Award 2014 could cause trips / falls (extension cords, water buckets, etc) 4. Animal - Keeping animals groomed and clean of poop.

Committee knows that the exhibitors do not brush Llamas and Alpacas, but an animal covered in hay could lose points for the exhibitor.

5. Overall appearance of Display - This includes the exhibitor display area.

(There will be about 4-5 committee members making 3-4 rounds a day which gives each exhibitor an opportunity to improve throughout the day.)

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Llama Geoglyphs in the Atacama Desert of Northern Chile

By Sharon Bramblett

This spectacular (approximately 160 yd) Tiviliche geoglyph shows a herd of about 50 llamas, marching across a sandy hillside westward toward the Pacific Ocean, about 25 miles away. Each figure is composed of dark stones that contrast with the light-colored hillside. Two human figures accompany the herd, a walking leader and fatter herd follower. The herd is visible across a deep ravine from flat routes where the Inca herded pack llamas. The site can be accessed from the nearby Pan-American Highway.

ABC Catalyst states that geoglyphs are very difficult to date, but that these Tiliviche llamas are believed to be about 800 years old. <http://www.abc.net.au/catalyst/extras/photos/chilegeoglyphs.htm> Fodorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Travel web site <http://www.fodors.com/world/south-america/chile/el-norte-grande/travel-tip_2434677.html> suggests that the glyphs were constructed between AD1000 and 1400, during the Inca period.

Though some restoration of the llama geoglyphs has been accomplished, two metal towers and a couple of power line posts and fiber optic cables now detract from the visual impact. Human activities threaten the site. These llama geoglyphs are but a small representation of the hundreds of geoglyphs found in the Atacama Desert, a 600-mile long strip of land between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. It is the driest non-polar desert in the world - some parts may not have received any significant rainfall from 1570 to 1971!

The above information was gleaned from many sources using Google, including Wikipedia.

Centro de Investigaciones del Hombre en el Desierto, Arica, Chile.

Briones-M. Luis. 2006. The geoglyphs of the north Chilean desert: an archaeological and artistic perspective. Antiquity 80: 9-24. http://blogs.abc.net.au/catalyst/2009/01/ This photo is used by permission of ABC TV Catalyst, Reporter Dr Paul Willis, Director of RiAus. Further reprinting is not allowed without written permission of the author(s).

The llama drawings and topographic information were provided by Juan Andrade P., Geomensor, Yacimiento Arqueologico, of the Centro de Investigaciones en el Hombre Desierto, Arica, Chile.

Further reprinting is not allowed without written permission of the author(s).

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

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Final Report "Understanding Genes that Cause Disease " Terje Raudsepp, Phd Texas A&M Agrilife Research Morris Animal Foundation RESULTS: Researchers Construct First Alpaca Genome Map Genome mapping is an invaluable resource, offering new possibilities for therapies and treatments as well as new diagnostic methods for some complex diseases. Current knowledge about the camelid genome lags far behind what is known about the genetic blueprints of other mammal species. As such, the genetic tools for studying and controlling inherited disorders in camelid species, such as alpacas and llamas, are limited.

In tackling this issue, Morris Animal Foundation-funded researchers from Texas A&M University have successfully generated the first alpaca whole genome chromosome map. This important milestone will help identify genes and mutations associated with inherited camelid diseases and disorders.

Morris Animal Foundation has recently extended funding to the Texas A&M research team. The team's new three-year research project will focus on improving their alpaca genome assembly, making it easier for scientists to investigate genetic causes of diseases in alpacas, llamas and other camelids. This detailed genetic toolbox will be an invaluable resource as the veterinary community addresses the health and welfare of domesticated alpacas and llamas as well as threatened and critically endangered wild camelid species.

Reprinted from the GALA Newsletter, newsletter of the Greater Appalachian Llama & Alpaca Assoc.; vol 29, #3, August 2014.

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

Camelid Community’s “Fiber as Business” Conference Is Huge Success

by Sheila Fugina and Barb Baker

“Awesome!”“Electric!”“Outstanding!” Those attending Camelid Community’s first ever “Fiber as Business” conference were full of positive superlatives in social media in the days immediately following the August 9-10 event. More than 130 people from 20 states and Canada packed the Arden Shisler Conference Center in Wooster, Ohio, eager to learn how to generate an income flow from their llama and alpaca fiber and take our industry to a new level. “This was just what I needed, everything altogether that I needed to know,” said one participant who was ready to start doing something with her fiber by the end of the conference.

Panel of fiber organization speakers (l to r): Wade Gease (AFCNA), Margaret Van Camp (Blueface Leicester Union), Chris Riley (NEAFP), Larry McCool (PNWLFC), Craig Eslep (84 Alpacas Fiber Mill), Robin Kuhl (NFP), Paul Egan (ABP), Heather Dee (New Era Fiber Mill)

Designed to provide fleece producers throughout the camelid industry with the information they need

in order to benefit from services currently available in the industry, the conference featured presentations from representatives of five fiber organizations and two fiber mills on the services and products they offer alpaca and llama owners. They included: Wade Gease, Alpaca Fiber Cooperative of North America (AFCNA); Paul Egan, The Alpaca Blanket Project; Chris Riley, New England Alpaca Fiber Pool (NEAFP); Robin Kuhl, Natural Fiber Producers; Larry McCool,

Tara Swiger speaks to attendees on how best to market their fiber and products.

Pacific Northwest Llama Fiber Cooperative (PNLFC); Heather Dee, New Era Fiber Mill, Gallatin, TN; and Allison Kazupas, 84 Alpacas Fiber Mill, Eighty Four, PA.

The fiber speakers seemed to agree that there is a place for everyone’s fleece—whether alpaca or llama, low 23

micron count or higher, older animal or young one. Over and over attendees heard, “Do something with your fiber!”

And they were presented with plenty of options and opportunities to do just that. Camelid owners were advised to do what works best for them and their individual situations, whether they just want to get a check for their raw fleeces

Saturday Night Auction of Felted Art Centerpieces with Wade Gease as Auctioneer

Poultry and Grain Market News Office, gave an overview of the pricing information USDA provides to both individual consumers and to commercial operations. He explained how this information, which is reported anonymously, can bring consistency and credibility to the camelid industry.

Hammerstrom also met with all the fiber presenters after the conference to go into more detail about how to get the camelid fiber industry on track in order to be included in this reporting. By the end of the meeting everyone agreed to cooperate and start a conversation to take camelid fiber to the next level.

Conference-goers received a CD that contained all of the conference materials and speaker notes, as well as additional supporting material and resources, eliminating the need for a heavy stack of handouts. Each person also

and be done with it, or whether they want to go farther up the value added chain with roving, yarn and finished fiber products of all kinds.

To help owners learn how to sell their fiber and fiber products, marketing expert Tara Swiger, author of Market Yourself, presented sessions on making the most of local and regional events and opportunities and also how to use online marketing and social media to sell yourself and your products. Dave Krebs, CPA and chief officer of the CPA Advisory Group, provided accounting and tax advice to help owners keep the IRS happy while putting as much of their fiber profits as possible in their own bank accounts. Margaret Van Camp, vice president of the Bluefaced Leicester Union of N. America, explained how that specialty sheep industry has been successful in growing its market and carving out a niche, providing llama and alpaca owners with ideas on how to do the same in the camelid industry.

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Randy Hammerstrom, from the USDA Livestock, Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

Randy Hammerstrom of the USDA, explains how anonymous and independent pricing of camelid fiber can give it credibility in the marketplace received what turned out to be a highly popular item—a colorful key chain with “Fiber is the Key” on one side and the Camelid Community logo and website on the other. One alpaca owner said her biggest take-away from the conference was that “we’re not competitors, but rather collaborators, with the llama community”. It truly was a camelid event.

The highlight of Saturday night’s dinner was auctioning off the unique felted centerpieces created by fiber

artist Laura Harrawood of Leslie, Missouri, for each of the conference tables. Every centerpiece was a one-of-a-kind work of fiber art. Wade Gease showed his auctioning skills by getting the audience to “bid high and bid often”, raising more than $1,600 to go toward Camelid Community’s next educational event. In addition, each of the speakers at the conference received a beautiful hand felted flower fashioned

by Debora Galaz of Lana de Flor, Wooster, Ohio.

and what we do with them. And make no mistake about it, we must have new owners if we are to succeed as an industry.

Speakers had booths in the conference room where they could talk in more detail with attendees during breaks and also show them the wide array of fiber products available from their operations. The Alpaca Owners Association (AOA) also had a booth, as did the International Camelid Institute (ICI). There was almost always activity at the booths as conference-goers picked up additional information,

Camelid Community is the only national forum that offers the

Audience takes a break between speakers signed on as members of pools and coops and purchased camelid fiber products.

The conference generated excitement about the possibilities and potentials of camelid fiber to generate income for alpaca and llama owners—and not just by selling fiber and fiber products. A profitable camelid fiber industry would add value to our animals and make them more attractive to new owners, demonstrating why we raise camelids

By the end of the weekend, everyone was exhilarated and there was an almost palpable energy around the conference room. As one owner put it, “I haven’t been this excited about the industry for a long time—after this weekend, I’m ready to get back into it with everything I’ve got.”

opportunity for dialog among representatives of national, regional and local camelid organizations as well as interested individuals and owners. The first joint llama and alpaca meeting was held in 1998 and later became the Camelid Community. Camelid Community meets every year to discuss a variety of topics that are determined by its participants. The 2013 group felt the time was right for a conference focusing on the business end of camelid fiber, and the 2014 “Fiber as Business” conference was the result. Past Camelid Community groups have also produced a number of brochures and publications on camelid care and uses that are available free for downloading. Check the Camelid Community website at www.camelidcommunity. us for upcoming events and activities as well as a report and photos from this year’s fiber conference.

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Have Shears Will Travel

I have been traveling and shearing llamas since 1998. I had a problem though. I hated having to load up a shoot in the back of my pickup and then unload it when I got there. I spent most of my time loading and unloading. The worst thing I had to endure was the heat while being outside. The llamas did not like it and I sure didn’t. I started thinking of an idea that would make grooming easier for me and better for the llamas.

I made a list of things that I needed to do:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Stop loading and unloading uloading shoots.

Stay cool.

Be self-contained and have all the supplies I need in one spot.

Be able to sharpen my own blades.

Make it a good experience as possible for the llama.

Save time.

I came up with an idea that has been a life saver.

In 2010 I bought a 16’L X 8’W X 7’T air conditioned cargo trailer with a loading ramp. I built in a shoot, storage drawers, a work table, and purchased a blade sharpener. I installed a generator which allows me to have power no matter where I am.

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

Since this was an air conditioned trailer it was cool with the doors closed, but when I lowered the ramp to let in a llama, my cool air went out. I came up with a solution to that. I installed a heavy plastic grocery freezer curtain in the back of the trailer.

Now when the ramp is lowered, the curtain falls and it is cool in the trailer. This works great and the llamas seem to be a lot calmer in the cool air. (Some of the llamas only get handled when I groom them and this makes life easier on everyone.)

The trailer has been a great investment for me.

Sean Price Figment Ranch

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Sportsmanship Sportsmanship is the single most important part of showing.

Fair play is another name for sportsmanship.

In the past 50 years in and around the show ring I have seen less and less good sportsmanship.

Many species today have to be drug tested after winning their classes. Horse show judges no longer give oral reasons due to law suits for belittling lower place animals. Sheep show exhibitors give their competitors extra water when their weight is near the limit. Some exhibitors follow certain judges because they believe they prefer their animals.

Some exhibitors even try to intimidate or influence judges into placing their animals higher than they deserve.

Fair play goes beyond the show ring. Sellers being less than honest representing their animals; Judges having personal preferences rather than using the criteria that ALSA provides; Directors having their own agenda rather than the needs of the membership that elected them; Members that disrupt board meetings to promote their own agenda – These are just a few examples of Poor Sportsmanship. Do we want to influence our next generation of show people with this type of behavior? I certainly hope not!

The only way the fun can return to the show ring is by promoting Good Sportsmanship – by showing our animals without disrupting others, being happy for those that win and being gracious when we ourselves win. Let’s try to welcome new people and help them become fair competitors so we can all have the fun that’s fallen by the wayside with the “Win at all costs” attitude lately. Remember the “Golden Rule” in its original printing!

Llamas are kind and caring creatures that show us how peaceful existence can be. The Spaniards almost destroyed this species years ago while trying to eradicate the Incas, similar to what the white man did to the American Indians’ source of food and livelihood, the American Buffalo (Bison).

The showring is for us, the llamas would rather stay home; eat, multiply, and live out their lives without the turmoil we create! They don’t care about ribbons and prestige and placing ahead of another animal in the ring! After a long day in this rat race we call living, I come home and watch my tranquil little herd peacefully grazing, and I wonder: Are these guys trying to tell me something very important that I’m overlooking?

A wise old man once told me “If you can’t have fun, THERE’S NO POINT GOING.” Let’s have fun and promote good sportsmanship!

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

Bill Feick

Ava Gardner Photo courtesy of the Ava Gardner Museum, Smithfield, NC

RANCHES Texas & Colorado

Suri, Silky, & Argentine Llamas 512-751-5363 www.sapavecoranch.com

3966 Estate Drive Vacaville, CA 95688 707-447-5046 707-471-4020 f llamainfo@gmail.com www.llamainfo.org

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How to Take a Vacation from the Farm

By Marc Page

At the 2013 GALA Conference my wife Sandy presented a workshop on how to take a vacation from the farm. We felt that this information was relevant to this time of year with members taking late summer vacations and also preparing to get away to the annual conference in October. For those who did not attend the workshop here are the highlights from the presentation.

Why People Need to Take a Vacation from their Farm or Work There are many reasons and benefits to varying your routine through taking a vacation.

Research has shown that vacations can promote creativity; they can be very educational through learning about new cultures and places; they can keep us healthy by staving off burnout and promoting an overall sense of wellbeing; they can relieve stress

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

from everyday things which

understand that much of the

in turn helps with your job

stress of being away from

performance; and a getaway

the farm is worrying about

can strengthen bonds with

the welfare of your animals

family and friends.

while you are gone. Ways to find that competent person

Ways to Take a Vacation from the Farm

can be: training a person (Neighbor/friends) to be your farm sitter; hiring a farm sitter

There are many different ways to

from an agency; finding a Vet

create the perfect situation

student if you have a college

for you to be able to take

or university near you; asking

time away from the farm. You

your veterinarian for a recom-

can turn the annual GALA

mendation - often they have

llama conference into a vaca-

vet techs that might be will-

tion by either coming early

ing to house sit; or if you have

or staying late and making

a very small herd, boarding

sure you visit local attrac-

may be the right answer.

tions. Since you are traveling to a new area it makes sense

Prepare Farm Sitter for every Situ-

to see what that area has to

ation from the Mundane to

offer. This type of vacation re-

the Emergency

duces the expense since you have already paid for your

Just a few examples would be to

travel. If you are fortunate

leave instructions on where

enough to have farm em-

the generator is and how to

ployees you do not have the

use it; how to draw water for

additional chore in finding a

the animals if water supply

reliable person to take care

is interrupted by any power

of your farm and animals. We

outage; make sure you leave

many green panels to make

date of birth, registration

emergency fence repair for

number, and microchip or

any damage that might occur

tattoo number as well any

from wind or falling trees; as

known health issue or charac-

well as a phone number for a

teristic that the sitter should

person who owns a backhoe

know. We also identify any

in case the worst happens.

animals that are boarders

Create an Animal Identification and Household Information Book To insure that everything at the farm goes smoothly while you are away we suggest that you create an animal identification and household information book to leave for your farm sitter. We have our book in a three ring binder and the binder is an easy reference for any farm emergency that could occur. Our book is divided into two sections: Animal Identification and Household Information.

In the Animal Identification section we provide a map of individual pastures with the number of animals and their names listed for each section.

This provides a quick reference for the farm sitter to make sure everyone is where they belong. We then provide a page for each llama with a recent picture to help identify that specific animal. Included on each animal page is the following information: sex,

and provide owner contact information.

In the Household Information sec-

The bottom line is that taking a good amount of time away from the stresses of daily life can give us the break we need so that we can return to our lives refreshed and better equipped to handle whatever comes. Providing the information above to your farm sitter, no matter who

tion we provide the following:

that may be, will allow you to

A. Llama/Alpaca veterinary servic-

good hands so you can enjoy

es names and phone numbers B. Small animal veterinary services names and phone if you have small pets

know that your animals are in your time away.

Our Vacation Philosophy is perfectly summed up in this Quote: "I'm a big believer in winging it. I'm a big believer

C. Our cell phone number(s)

that you're never going to

D. Where we are staying: hotel or

rience or the perfect meal

friend's phone number; room number if available E. Additional Phone numbers to include Electrician, Plumber, Neighbor, National Poison Control Center, Fire, Police (911) general business number F. We also Include the following: A second neighbor's phone

find perfect city travel expewithout a constant willingness to experience a bad one.

Letting the happy accident happen is what a lot of vacation itineraries miss, I think, and I'm always trying to push people to allow those things to happen rather than stick to some rigid itinerary." - Anthony Bourdain (CNN host of Parts Unknown)

number, our hay provider who is a person who is very knowledgeable about animals, a veterinarian friend who lives in town, idiosyncrasies about your farm or house that others might not find obvious.

Article co-written by Sandy Page on 6/17/2014 with material -ÂŹfrom GALA Presentation November 2013 Reprinted from the GALA Newsletter, newsletter of the Greater Appalachian Llama & Alpaca Assoc.; vol 29, #3, August 2014.

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A Good Deed Brings an Unexpected Reward for SCLA

By Karen Conyngham

On June 6th, I picked up the SCLA mail at the post office box and found a wonderful surprise. I expected to see a new membership - which is great too! - but instead found a check from Barbara Clark of Joshua, Texas with a lovely, generous financial donation to SCLA. The only hint was a notation on the check's memo line reading "In the name of Adryce Mathisen".

Adryce is our SCLA Board secretary and long-time SCLA member. I dropped Adryce an email asking for a bit more background on what prompted the donation. Adryce wrote me back:

Anyway, I figured she would want to pay something, so I brought an envelope with me addressed to SCLA just in case, and told her when she asked about charges that if she wanted to do something, a donation to SCLA would be appreciated."

Barbara has received a thank-you letter from SCLA for her kindness.

Adryce's story reminded me of an incident some years back. SCLA members Mark and Tanda Crandall were in Kerrville at a sheep shearing demonstration. Tanda noticed that one flock also had its unshorn guard llama along. As the shearer finished that flock and was preparing to release the sheep, Tanda called out from the crowd, "OK now do the llama too!" and the guy did. Tanda was able to chat with the flock owner later on and provide other care suggestions to him.

I also remember Joan Lyon's admonition at her "Llamas 101" session at the 2000 SCLA conference.

She said in order to relate to how an unshorn

"Barbara Clark owns my favorite Quilt store, Batiks Galore. A couple of years ago she got some llamas, quilt store and llamas are on the same property, and I noticed that last summer they weren't sheared (didn't realize this until end of summer) so decided to offer to do it for her this year. She took me up on the offer, and loaned out her son and husband as assistants and wranglers. We had quite a rodeo since they aren't ever handled, but got 5 llamas wormed, sheared, vaccinated and toenails trimmed. I don't shear professionally, in fact I have a black cloud hanging over me as far as clippers and blades are concerned - must be my magnetic personality making them go dull instantly, right?

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

llama feels in Texas heat, put on your heaviest winter coat and go sit in the sun for 15 minutes without either unzipping or removing the coat, and see how uncomfortable YOU are! Llamas cannot remove their coats...we have to do that for them.

Kudos go to Adryce for her willingness to help 5 llamas and their owner!

October 23-26, 2014

Greater Appalachian Llama & Alpaca Assoc.

Annual Conference Marriott Sable Oaks Hotel Portland, Maine, USA

Top Reasons to come to the Conference in October

10. Maine vacation.

9. Long timers celebrated. Short timers inspired.

8. Mallon will tell you why lamas do it like they do.

7. Poetry slam, needle felting and flapjack races.

6. Linda Cortright’s Wild Fibers stories.

5. Dr. Pugh’s advice on how to avoid disease altogether.

4. Lobster.

3. Dr. Bernie Rollin talks ethical treatment 2. Orgling 1. 75,672 moose.

The Greater Appalachian Llama and Alpaca Association (GALA) will be holding its 27th annual conference in Portland, Maine, at the Marriott Sable Oaks Hotel. GALA holds one of the nation’s most esteemed annual get-togethers with a strong emphasis on education for camelid owners. This year’s headliners include Bernie Rollin, PhD philosophy professor and noted animal ethicist; Dr. David Pugh, legendary camelid veterinarian; Darrell Anderson, pedigreed Livestock Specialist and Llama Judge; John Mallon, trainer extraordinaire; Dr. Daniela Bedenice, Tufts veterinarian, professor and researcher; and Linda Cortright, publisher of Wild Fibers magazine.

Always featured at GALA conferences is a magnificent Fiber Room with workshops and activities for all. Plan a Maine vacation to include this conference.

Conference registration will begin in August.

In the meantime, you may view the headline speaker’s bios, a Conference description in flyer form, and book a hotel reservation on line at: http://www.galaonline.org/conference2014.html

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

37

From SOCIAL, to SALES: Selling Your Story

By RJ Stangherlin

If you depend on your annual open barn, website, and community service projects to advertise your llamas, alpacas, or camelid related goods and services, you are still doing business in the 20th century While these options can raise educational awareness, in a flat economy they do little to inspire sales.

If, however, you are using social media channels to drive business, you position yourself to build educational awareness and opportunities for sales with 21st century free tools.

Like it or not, today's consumers work and play daily in social media. They buy, sell, interact, and have fun in e-commerce, so if you are still resisting the plunge into the most popular social channels, you need to rethink your marketing strategies for sustainability. I understand that many do not choose to sell their animals online even though there is a growing presence for doing just that. But what social media can do for your business is, proverbially speaking, put it out there by selling your story And no one does that better, in my opinion, than Tabbethia Haubold.

PLAA member and owner-operator of Long Island Livestock Company, Tabbethia does it all: open barn, extensive community service, youth programs, breeding, showing, craft shows (think Vogue Knitting Live), a shearing service and a branded natural products line. Where does she sell her story? Facebook. How does she do it? By being an authentic voice reaching out to her community with daily "Shear and Share" status updates. Tabbethia says Facebook has become her blog and she loves the interaction on those longs days of endless shearing and traveling. "Their energy and love are given back to me ... and when I need help, they reach out to me and sustain me." Tabbethia admits that being on Facebook daily is sometimes challenging but she keeps her presence vibrant because she believes communicating with her friends is important. And she notes she would never have found Teri Conroy and sold her a llama (Tank) if she hadn't been on Facebook.

Bev Vienckowski, owner-operator with husband Ed of Second Wind Farm NE, LLC, and editor-in-chief of PLAA's newsletter, The Lama Letter, uses her Facebook farm page to advertise her llama beans, organic eggs, and seasonal produce. But forget buying llama beans from Bev for a while; she is completely out of stock, all because she markets on Facebook. Are you smiling yet? IF you are thinking of making 38

Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

just one media channel your go-to account, Facebook wins simply because it is the largest global media franchise with the greatest and best-integrated assets. Let's face it: the world is on Facebook, so your marketing potential is unlimited.

If you have an allergy to Facebook, consider creating a Pinterest account. If you love images, Pinterest is a great way to aggregate your assets and activities by "pinning" an online photo that links to a url. If you have a website and you want to give it a facelift, pin your images to your Pinterest account as I did with PLAA's website. The second most popular media asset and winner of the most popular newcomer award last year, Pinterest is truly ubiquitous. If I could take photographs like Bob Wolfe, owner of Spruce Lane Llamas, I'd be all over Pinterest. It's a great visual way to advertise your goods and services, and less threatening than Facebook, for the fainterÂŹhearted not yet ready for prime time media.

My third and final choice for you to consider as an assets-managing opportunity is the 21st century encyclopedia, YouTube. We have become a truly visual society and nothing works more magic than a compelling video. If you are good at creating videos or filming short snippets like Bev Vienckowski, you can export from your smart phone directly to YouTube (or Facebook and other media channels); check out Bev's llama Carbon wishing us a Happy Easter. A painless and easy way to keep your business out there, YouTube has almost achieved search engine status because of its volume of entries.

There are other social media channels worth exploring, but these three are tried and true for creating effective possibilities, depending on how you sell your story. If you have suggestions for tech tips you would like to see in this space, questions wanting answers, or tutorials, please feel free to contact me.

RJ Stangherlin, rj22@ptd.net To see examples click on the blue interactive web links below: Tabbethia Haubold: Long Island Livestock Company - http://www.lilivestockco.com/ Teri Conroy: Wunsapana Farm and Wunsapana Farm Artisan Lockspun Yarn - http://www.wunsapanafarm.com/ Bev Vienckowski: Second Wind Farm NE, LLC on Facebook You Tube video: Wishing Carbon a Happy Easter - http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=4RqDCy2Qc40 Bob Wolfe: Spruce Lane Llamas - http://www.sprucelane.com/ References: 1. From Social to Sales: How to Make Money Off Your Tweets and Status UpÂŹdates." NFIB myBusiness: March/April 2014, pp. 31-35.

Reprinted from the Pennsylvania Llama & Alpaca Assoc newsletter, The. Lama Letter, vol. 19, #2, May 2014.

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A STORY THAT'S SILENTLY BEGGING TO BE TOLD

By Tanner Shinnick

NORTH AMERICA IS BLESSED with a vast array of domesticated animals. A relatively recent addition to this group of domesticated animals is llamas.

But unfortunately for llamas, the public's first impression generally has not been a favorable one.

These impressions have been generally formed

by mishaps and unhappy experiences at zoos and county fairs. Also the media's portrayal of llamas has not been accurate to the intelligence and love the llama is capable of. The untold story of the North America llama is a fascinating and touching story of the diverse interactions beÂŹtween the llama and their owners. Much like pealing back each layer of an onion, you soon learn that the llama husbandry is not just a singular activity or event. It is a multiplicity of activities that include husbandry, packing, shows, driving, competition, companionship, parades, therapy and so much more.

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

This fascinating untold story of the North American llama is the story we now want to introduce to the public. We want to share this singularly unique story through the lives of those who share their lives each and every day with these wonderful, majestic and gentle animals. "Llama Nation: The Documentary" will be the story of both the llamas and the people who share the lives with them in sometimes some very unusual and often entertaining and fun ways.

We, as the filmmakers, see creating this documentary as a group effort with all of you. Through all of your help so far we have found such unique stories that tell the story of llamas in such a beautiful manner. You all can help in your own way.

We've had so many of you share with us touching stories and photos. You've welcomed us with open arms to film on your farms, conferences and shows. We've also had many of you help by financially contributing to pro-duction cost because, unfortunately, making a film isn't the cheapest thing to do.

We, as a film and production team, firmly believe that we can help change the public's perception of llamas through this exciting new documentary. That is our job for the next year, to film and tell your story about your love and passion for llamas and the llama life. It's a story that has been begging to be told for years and we're excited to finally ÂŹgive it the life it has long deserved.

For the remainder of 2014, my production team and I will be flying all around the US and filming many of your unique and fun stories. We've assembled an extremely talented team of Emmy Award winners, producers from PBS documentaries and consultants from Sundance Award Winning documentaries. You may have already had the opportunity to see us at a show or a conference, or hopefully will see us in the near future. We have lots of plans set in place to make this the best story possible. Because let's be honest, it is.

With that in mind, we are offering opportunities to help us in offsetting the production costs of the film. These contributions would go exclusively towards expenses related to flights, food, hotels etc. while we film for the next year. In return for $125, your name will appear in the credits as special thanks for your help and support of this exciting project. At $500, your farm logo and your impor-

tant farm information will appear in the credits of the films. If you wish to contribute more, we can discuss individualized plans. Please contact me, Tanner Shinnick, at tannershinnick@gmail.com for more information.

The Documentary will finish filming the end of 2014 and will then begin entering film festivals around the nation in 2015. We've already been granted an early adÂŹmission to the Sun Valley Film Festival for 2015 and foresee participating in many festivals around the nation next year. The reception during early stages of the film have been exceptional. We owe all of that to you. You all have been so great with us through this process so far. Thank you.

If you would like to keep up on where we'll be filming and what we've filmed you can follow us on our Facebook account facebook.com/llamanationfilm on Instagram @llamanationfilm or our web site at llamanationfilm.com.

Thank you all for being so welcoming to myself and production crew as we travel along this journey.

It's been a joy so far this year and we're beyond excited to continue on.

Reprinted from the SSLA Llama Journal, newsletter of the Southern States Llama Assoc.; Spring 2014

41

KooKoo's Adventure in the Great Llama Race

By Sandy Sgrillo

"HEY, THIS IS A NEW PLACE I've never been before ...I wonder where I am." As KooKoo gently stepped out of the trailer, he looked around with his big wide eyes and observed all the new things to see.

"There's a gate, and some grass, and long metal things in the shape of a race track...... what could this be?"

Afrika and I walked to our pens, entered and got comfy, drank some water and munched on alfalfa cubes. Soon, a group of people came in, and started putting on some strange costumes, so we

42

had to deal with that. Then we strutted ourselves around that big racetrack thing, while people took photos of us. It was cool to see so many people here to see us! They were all lined up above us on the bridge, too! And, there were so Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

many other llamas, wearing even stranger costumes than ours! I even knew a few of them from years ago when we used to trek together... it was nice to see my old buddies!

After that, our mom (the Llamamama) walked us around and we got to run fast in the ring... we did it over and over again until we got real familiar with it. Then some new guys took us around and we even ran faster! "Wow, so cool!"

After a while, the crowd got bigger and everyone was staring at us! They walked me over to the racetrack again, and we waited for a flag to wave, then off we went! "I never ran so fast in my life!

The guy leading me was running SO fast! We crossed over the finish line first, and all the other llamas were way behind me." My runner guy was

all smiles and laughing and gave me lots of tight hugs!

After resting for a while, my buddy, Afrika was taken out and he ran fast too... but he slowed down around the big curve. I guess he thought he was

returning to the pen with me. I was getting a little tired and grumpy, and just when I thought the day was over, they came and got me again.

My runner led me to that same gate and we stood for a while, waiting for other llamas to arrive. I looked them over, but they didn't seem too intimidating.

The flag waved again, and we were off running again!

"Wheeeee... this is fun!" Just as we were coming around the big curve, my runner slipped in the wet grass, and I almost ran over him! But he managed to get up, and pull me to the finish line!

My Llamamama was there, along with all sorts of people laughing and smiling... and SO many cameras clicking away at me.

Next thing I knew, I was being photographed with this huge trophy of a pretty golden llama and my Llamamama was giving me hugs and kisses!

Boy, I don't know what I did, but I'm sure glad I did it! The trophy said "The Great Llama Race, 2nd Place" and then, I got to go home! It was a long ride home, but I was glad to arrive safe at my barn to see all my other buddies. "Boy, wait until I tell you about MY day."

The next day, momma came and showed us the newspaper... there was Afrika on the front page!

She said something about us being "celebrities" and that next year I'd be an even bigger star!

"Wheee, I can't wait! Its good to be the Llama King!"

Reprinted from the SSLA Llama Journal, newsletter of the Southern States Llama Assoc.; Spring 2014

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More photos and commentary from the Great Llama Race

By Susan Gawarecki

To my knowledge, there has never been a llama event in the southeast with as much public exposure as the Great Llama Race, held at the World’s Fair Park in Knoxville, TN. With an estimated 5000 people in attendance on a glorious spring day, the llama community could not have asked for better PR. And WOW, did those PR llamas work overtime at this all-day affair!

The giant llama costume was a crowd pleaser (photo by S. Gawarecki)

diplay, or as a vendor. Sponsors and volunteers are always needed as well.

Llamas running hard in an early heat (photo by S. Gawarecki)

Little kids led llamas through an obstacle course, pack llamas meandered through thick crowds, llamas were decked out in awkward studentdesigned costumes, and pasture ornaments were towed around a race course by complete strangers. There were no meltdowns or spitting episodes in evidence. So successful was the event, that it was immediately called “First Annual,” and plans for 2015 are already underway.

The Second Annual Great Llama Race will be announced to members of the SSLA well in advance so you can make plans to participate either by providing a racing llama, having a farm 44

Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

The giant llama costume was a crowd pleaser (photo by S. Gawarecki Reprinted from the SSLA Llama Journal, newsletter of the Southern States Llama Assoc.; Spring 2014

Marcie Saska Agnew Bob Burton 817-999-1875 P.O. Box 211 Sunset, Texas 76270 5415 CO Rd 59 Florissant, Colorado 80816

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We breed pets, show, guard and just-for-fun llamas.

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www.FigmentRanch.com figranch@flash.net Ruby Herron Robin Turell Sean Price

713-249-8523 713-249-3893 281-830-2368

Diamond D Llamas Rick & Darlene Matthiesen 259 PR 3512 Hondo, TX 78861 Home: 830.741.7023 email: diamonddllamas@gmail.com www.diamonddllamas.com

45

Marketing That Fiber

By Niki Kuklenski

Many llama and alpaca owners have bags of fiber sitting in their attics, storage rooms etc. As an industry that breeds fiber animals, it always amazes me how few camelid owners promote and utilize their fleeces. Still fewer owners spin, knit, felt, weave or crochet. Which usually results in a lack of understanding of what a spinner/knitter seeks in a fleece. If properly assessed, skirted, processed and marketed, a good fleece sells well to a captive fiber market.

The biggest obstacles to selling llama fiber to enthusiasts are quality and lack of preparation. Too many owners sell fiber that is not quality fiber for garments or other finished products. When customers are sold this rough or dirty fiber, their perception is that llama fiber isn't very nice. They also tell their friends this or they see it when the fiber artist shows off their less than luxurious feeling item. It is important to sort your fiber and send it to the proper market.

Older or rough feeling fiber should be used for felting or 46

Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

rug type projects. When we do not sell fiber to the right market, it really hurts future sales and advertisement for our better fiber animals.

Hand spinner and fiber artists will tell you that they appreciate a well skirted and clean fleece. Usually, they will pay top dollar for a fine fleece that is free of debris and that has the right color or hand.

Hand refers to the qualities of resilience, softness, fineness, length, strength, and has a pleasing touch.

Cleanliness and hand are the number one factors in selling your fleece. Nearly every new spinner goes through the experience of buying a cheap and dirty (no pun intended) fleece. Usually after the effort and time involved with prepping and spinning a fleece of that quality, most spinners will pay much more for a top quality fleece. In order to figure out your target market for your fiber, it is important to know your fiber quality. Prior to shearing you should assess your best fleeces and make the extra effort to clean those fleeces prior to harvesting them. This extra effort will usually yield you premium prices for your fiber.

After you have sheared and bagged your best fleeces, you need to find places to market your fiber. I sell my fleeces to local hand spinners via fiber sales, yarn stores, Craigslist, word of mouth and more.

When possible, I attend spinning and other fiber events where I can share/show my fleeces off. Most of my customers are people that want nice fleeces they can spin out of the bag. I price my fleeces by the quality and what it is worth to me to lose them

out of my personal spinning stash. I sell most for $40-100 dollars per fleece.

To learn more about my market, I have had all our fleeces processed into roving and spin samples from that and

I sell raw and bumps (roving) of my fiber to see what maximizes the bottom line profit. I make the most off of raw fiber that is unprocessed. Interestingly, most hand spinners are used to buying sheep fleeces that they pay for by weight, lose half the fleece in processing (losing the lanolin etc.) and then pay for the processing.

In the end it would be much cheaper to buy my roving.

Most fiber enthusiasts have a hard time understanding

that a bump of good quality llama fiber is actually cheaper than buying a raw fleece of other fiber animals. The fact that some types of llama fiber are so much lighter (weight) appearing than other fleeces, it gives the impression that

there is hardly anything in the bag, when in fact there is a lot to spin there! It is important to educate our consumers about our product.

Nationally, we have a cottage industry of fiber artists. There is no commercial market to my knowledge for camelid fiber. As such, it is important to get our product out to the cottage market. I find that having a fun half page informational sheet on the animal the fiber came from really appeals to my spinners.

I include a picture, information about that animal (funny personality traits, show and bloodline information), spinning level appropriate for that fleece (beginning vs. advanced), appropriate products to make from that fleece and more. I put the bumps or raw fleece in clear easily visible bags. If I split up a bump of fleece into smaller bags, I make sure they are labeled clearly. I have spun up samples of the fleece I am selling too, for people to handle when they are considering buying some of it.

Offering to bring samples of. fiber, animals etc. to local fiber group meetings is a great way' to promote your animals and their great fiber.

Recently, I had several of the llama breeders in our region send me samples of fiber and I gave these samples out at a meeting. I taught the individuals at the meeting how to evaluate fleeces for fineness, hand, luster and other qualities. What started as a one hour presentation, lasted over two hours with questions and hands on work.

Everyone enjoyed it.

Llama fiber that is bred by some breeders rivals some of the finest fibers in the world. As an industry, it is time to market our better fibers to the right consumers. If you breed fiber animals, you need to educate yourself in order to better serve the individuals you sell to. Happy Spinning, Knitting and Felting!

Niki Kuklenski and her husband Jeff are very involved with all aspects of owning llamas.

Niki is an ALSA/ILR Judge and a substitute teacher. They drive, show, pack, educate and do therapy work with their llamas. Niki's passion isllama history and memorabilia. http://www.nas.com/ jnkllamas jnkllamas@ nas. com 360-592-2603 Reprinted from the GALA Newsletter, newsletter of the Greater Appalachian Llama & Alpaca Assoc.; vol 29, #3, August 2014

47

Why Invest in Research? North West Camelid Foundation July 19-20, 2014 North West Camelid Foundation and the Oregon State College of Veterinary Medicine are partnering on an educational conference and hosting the 26th Annual Fundraiser for alpaca and llama research. Many owners question why we need to invest in scientific projects investigating camelid health issues.

Those who first bought alpacas or llamas in the early eighties have a great appreciation for what has been learned in the past three decades. Back then virtually no llama and alpaca organizations existed. One book on llama medicine, Andy Tillman's "Speechless Brothers", was our only health guide.

The glossy text books of Dr. Murray Fowler, Dr. LaRue Johnson and Dr. Chris Cebra didn't exist. No one had heard of Dr. Tibary or Dr Van Saun. South American and Australian expertise was not available. Websites and internet sources didn't exist. Some veterinarians called to help with a sick animal refused to offer any assistance.

See the attached brochure "25 Years of Excellence in Camelid Medicine." Read for yourself what our OSU and Camelid Community partnership has accomplished. Twenty-five annual Banquets have raised and invested over $560,000 in projects to help Oregon State make these discoveries.

Willamette Valley Llama Association, Willamette Alpaca Breeders Association, Columbia Alpaca Breeders Association, Alpaca Research Foundation, Alpaca Breeders Connection, Emerald Valley Alpaca Association, Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association, Southwest Washington Llama Association and Central Oregon Llama Association groups have made donations, provided sponsorships and awarded grants to help. Members of these groups have donated time, talent and money.

Sixty to seventy percent of all human diseases are first detected in animals. Diseases can migrate from one species to another. Unlike we thought in the past, camelids may be more resistant to some disease but not immune. New challenges continue to arise. Valley Fever spores recently detected in the soil in the tri-cities area of Washington state. Will this southwest desert affliction become more prevalent in northwest camelids? Will the meningeal worm, prevalent in the northeast cross the Mississippi River to the west? What about MERS which seems to have moved from middle east camels into the human population and now we have our first US cases?

But there is also exciting new hope for camelids helping with human disease. Small antigens detected in camelids may be used to direct drugs into the brain to treat cancerous tumors, Alzheimer's or other brain disorders. Studies have started on these theories. Oregon Health Sciences University presently has a couple llamas involved in research. What will we learn?

As long camelids are in our pastures, we need to continue unraveling the mysteries of their existence. We need to protect them, our families and the public. Camelid health is a public health issue.

We have helped our OSU College of Veterinary Medicine become a leader in camelid medicine. We need to maintain that excellence.

If you could not attend the conference and auction, you can still support camelid medical research via the NWCF. See: http://www.nwcamelidfoundation.org/ 48

Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

Ask the CSU Vet Team

By Kathy Stanko & the Colorado State University Camelid Vets & Interns Welcome! Dr. Kathryn Bach has provided us with some great information to ensure our lactating llamas and alpacas stay healthy. Great timing for this information as crias begin ‘hitting the ground.’ And our second topic is a report from Dr. Stacey Byers on the results of the insulin research that began in 2011.

Question: I have a few nursing/lactating alpacas that are in need of weight gain. So, what is the best way to put weight on these girls?

Response from Kathryn Bach, VMD: Lactation creates an extra strain on our alpacas. In addition to having to provide nutrients for themselves, the nursing dam must provide nutrients though her milk for the cria as well. In order to make sure your lactating alpacas make it through their lactation without a problem, here are a few steps you can take.

The first thing you want to make sure is that you are housing your lactating alpacas in a stress free environment. All animals should have adequate access to feed and animals that don’t socialize well together should not be housed together. Stressed animals can be offered all the best feed in the world but if they can’t access it or are being bossed around, they are not going to get the nutrition they require.

Alpacas can eat up to 1½ to 2% of their body weight in good quality forage per day. This would mean that a 100 lb animal can eat 1½ to 2 lb of forage every day. This sounds easy enough, however forage quality, and in particular energy and protein content, can vary drastically depending on where it’s grown, at what stage of maturity the forage was when harvested, the weather, etc. In order to know if your forage is of good quality, you have to have it tested. There are numerous places to have your forage tested and your veterinarian can help you determine the best place to send your samples.

Once you get your forage analysis, it is important to check the energy and protein content of the forage.

For lactating animals, you want the Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN) to be around 60% to 70% in order to fully support the energy needs of lactation. Next, look at the protein content of the forage. We generally recommend that non-lactating animals receive forage that contains 12% protein and lactating animals receive a forage that contains 15% protein (Long 2006). If your grass hay doesn’t have that much protein, adding alfalfa hay into the mix often can make up for the protein that your grass hay is missing.

Alfalfa, a legume, has higher protein content and, for lactating animals, it’s also a great option since it has additional calcium as well which the lactating alpaca needs for milk production.

Grain can also be added to the diet to increase energy content; however make sure that grain is only part of the diet. Diets that contain too much grain can be detrimental to alpacas and can cause gastric acidosis or gastric ulcers. As a rule of thumb, no more than 20% of the diet should be grain (Long 2006) and grain should be added into the diet gradually over a week. Many companies make lactating alpaca pellets which can be used to supplement your forage. They should have a TDN of at least 60% and a total protein of 12% to 15%. This pellet will help increase the energy and protein levels in the diet and can be used to supplement hay forages with lower levels.

Another important thing to keep in mind when trying to maintain a healthy lactating alpaca is that you need to make sure that your alpaca is entering her lactation with an appropriate body condition. With all that fiber, it can be easy to think that your alpaca is looking great, when in fact she might be getting skinny. The best way to make sure that your animal is maintaining a good body condition is through body condition scoring.

There are many great resources available to help you score your animal and your veterinarian can help you with this too. Ideally, your alpaca should enter late pregnancy at a body condition score (BCS) of 33.5 out of 5 and not lose more than 0.75-1.0 units of BCS during lactation. If your animals are too thin entering lactation or losing more than the recommended amount and you are feeding quality feed at an adequate amount, then it’s a good idea to call your veterinarian. Your animal may have an underlying health condition, such as poor dentition or GI parasites, which may be affecting their ability to gain weight.

49

Helpful links: http://extension.psu.edu/animals/camelids/nutrition/body-condition-scoring-of-llamas-andalpacas References: Long, P 2006, ‘Llama and alpaca nutrition” in British Veterinary Camelid Society: proceedings of the 2006 conference Question: What results were found from the study on hyperglycemia in camelids?

Response from Dr. Stacey Byers: Sick camelids are often extremely hyperglycemic (greater than 300 mg/dL, normal camelid blood glucose is 90-160 mg/dL). In order to counteract the hyperglycemia, we give them insulin but we did not have much information about doses, durations, and responses to some of the newer insulin formulations. So in 2011 we began evaluating various monitoring devices and treatment methods. This research evaluated insulin types, point of care (POC) glucometers, and a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system. Research funds were provided by the Colorado State University Center for Companion Animal Studies PVM Student Research Grant Program and Dr. Byers’ ‘new faculty’ start -up funds.

The research was conducted on healthy alpacas so some data extrapolation is still needed when we are treating hospitalized camelids. The first phase of the project evaluated various POC glucometers. The POC glucometers are used by people with diabetes so they can easily monitor their blood glucose concentrations. Veterinarians use these devices in animals for the same reasons. We wanted to find the most accurate and appropriate glucometer for the Livestock Medicine and Surgery section and for the next phase of our project. The two POC glucometers that performed the best for our needs were the One Touch Ultra and the Precision Xtra meters.

For the second phase of the project, we evaluated 3 different insulin formulations and a continuous glucose monitor. Just like with the POC meters, we used insulin manufactured for people because there aren’t any formulations manufactured for camelids. Continuous glucose monitors (CGM) are devices placed under the skin and provide glucose readings every 5-30 seconds. We were interested in this system to possibly reduce the repeated blood draws we have to perform to monitor blood glucose levels.

Unfortunately the system doesn’t work until we get an animal’s blood glucose to less than 400 mg/dL and below this level the CGM system provides good glucose trend information. Additionally the CGM system is not currently approved for use except in humans and is very expensive, so it won’t be commonly used for a few years until the system costs decrease. The project also helped us identify how long the different insulin formulations decrease blood glucose and approximate dosing ranges so we now have good baseline information for using these medications in camelids. The information has been helpful in guiding our treatments in several sick camelids over the past 6 months.

Reprinted from the Journal of the RMLA, Summer 2014. This article cannot be further reprinted without permission of the authors.

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

Memorial for Dr. Murray Fowler By the Llama Assoc. of North America (LANA) June 11, 2014 As you know, Dr. Fowler recently passed away. Dr. Fowler’s family has requested that any donations in Dr. Murray’s name, be given to the Sacramento Zoo. In honor of the many years of dedication that Dr. Murray Fowler gave to the camelid community, LANA would like to donate a Memorial bench at the Sacramento Zoo. The cost of this donation is $2500.

For the donation, there will be a placard on the bench that would be inscribed: “In Memory of Dr. Murray E. Fowler for his Lifetime Contributions to Camelid Medicine.

Donated by the Llama Association of North America and Friends” The placard stays on the bench for the lifetime of the bench which is approximately 30-40 years. If you would like to donate towards this memorial bench, please send a check to the LANA office with the notation “Dr. Fowler” or use the PayPal button on the website that is designated for this purpose. http://www/lanainfo.org LANA is not putting an end date on this fund raiser. We will leave it open as long as it takes to raise the needed funds. We hope you will consider donating.

As always, thank you for supporting LANA. Your Board of Directors

Llama Association of North America (LANA) www.lanainfo.org 3966 Estate Drive Vacaville, CA 95688-9547 707-447-5046 ph 707-471-4020 fax [Please note: you do NOT need to be a member of LANA to contribute to this worthy cause. KC]

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SCLA Library

Barbara Welch, Librarian

(830) 885-2388 • dbldare@gvtc.com

Books A Guide to Raising Llamas – Gale Birutta (10132) A Well Trained Llama – By Paul & Betty Barkman (10167) Along Came a Llama -- Welsh farmer adds a llama to her farm (10041) ALSA Llama Judging Clinic (10098) Aunt Millie’s Guide to Llama Fiber - By Mike Brown (10166) Body Scoring Llamas & Alpacas, by Bob Beede, DVM (10128) Before and After Llamas -- humor (10086) Building Small Barns, Sheds and Shelters -- Monte Burche (10116) Camel's Zoo Book 2 -- children (10023) Caring for Llamas, A Health and Management Guide (10043) Caring for Llamas and Alpacas - 2nd. ed. (10043) Evaluating a Llama Pack for Comfort and Function (10122) Fifty Things to Do With a Llama by B. James (10147) Felt making Techniques & Projects by I. Evers (10149) Handbook for Llamas -- first aid (10017) Hands On Spinning -- Lee Raven (10107) Harley – by Star Livingston Illustrated by Molly Bang (10173) Heat Stress; Prevention & Management, by Myra Freeman -- (10130) I Care About My Animals – animal rights guide (10124) If I was a Llama -- children (10112) Llamas & Alpacas as a Metaphor for Life - by Marty McGee – (10148) Llama&AlpacaNeonatalCare,byB.Smith,DVM;K.Timm,DVM;P.Long,DVM.--(10131) Llama Babies -- Up, Dry & Nursing -- Anderson (10133) Llama Driving – By Ron Shinnick (10169) Llama Nutrition Clinic Notes -- LaRue Johnson, DVM (10138) Llama Packing for Youth, by the ILA Youth Committee -- (10129) Llama Training on Your Own – Helen Bodington (10168) Living with Llamas -- Rosana Hart (10020) Llamas Can Beat the Heat -- Texas cooling techniques (10035) Llama Medicine and Surgery -- Texas A&M (10022) Llama Medicine, Veterinary Clinics of North America -- (10082) Llama Training, Who's in Charge -- (10027) Llamas: Their Personality and Expressions -- (10114) Llama Tricks -- Step by Step Method -- by Linda Hayes -- 10142 Leaders Manual for 4-H Llama Activities (10156) Love a Llama -- children (10097) Making the Most of Your Llama – By Linda Beattie (10165)

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

Medicine & Surgery of South American Camelids -Fowler (10135) Medicine & Surgery of South American Camelids – 2nd ed., (10153) Packing with Llamas -- (10048) Raising Llamas in Alberta, Why Are They So Popular? -- (10123) Roberts Rules of Order (10152) Ruminations from the Back Forty - by John Mallon (10178) SCLA 1992 Conference -- ring binder (10104) SCLA 1993 Conference -- ring binder (10079) SCLA 1994 Conference -- ring binder (10100) SCLA 1995 Conference – ring binder (10080) SCLA 1996 Conference – ring binder (10130) SCLA 1998 Conference – ring binder (10150) SCLA 2000 Conference – ring binder, (10163) Scraping Heaven - by Cindy Ross, donated by Teresa King (10179) Secrets of the Andes (10040) So You Share Your Life with a Llama - by Susan Peterson (10177) Speechless Brothers (10106) Spinning Llama & Alpaca -- by Chris Switzer (10134) Spinning Llama & Alpaca 2nd Edition – By Chris Switzer (10171) The Camelid Companion (Handling and Training your Alpacas and Llamas) –

by Marty McGee Bennett (10172) The Field Guide ... In Search of the Ideal Llama – conformation info (10113) The TTEAM Approach -- McGee (10117) The (Mis)adventures of the Llamas at Hunter Hill – Hubbard, Ryberg (10174) Today and Tomorrow Llama Investment Analysis --1990 (10047) Turning Wool into a Cottage Industry -- (10042) The Waldo Chronicles -- a training log -- (10129) Veterinary Llama Field Manual - By Norman Evans (10145) Youth Llama Project -- 4H guidebooks (10045) 4H Instructions -- SCLA (10118) Packing with Llamas 4th edition - Stanlynn Daugherty (10161) Notes from Dr. Norman Evans' llama conference on 4/1/2000 (10164) 3rd Annual Camelid Health Program - Ohio State University (10170)

Newsletters and Magazines SCLA Humming Herald Red Hot Llamas -- Smithsonian 8/94 (10101) Newsletters from other llama associations

Video Tapes All About Llamas I -- Llama Basics (10007) All About Llamas II, Breeding, Birthing and Newborns -- (10008) Animals on the Farm -- Video aimed at children/4-H clubs - (10134) Basic T.T. E.A.M. with Llamas - by Marty McGee (10005) Camelid Handling Secrets Volume 1 Medical Management - (10025) Click & Reward -- Training Video -- (10141) Click and Reward – Vol. II –(10159) The Competitive Edge in the Showring -- ALSA guidelines (10073) Felt Making by Hand -- Basic Process -- Vickrey (10143) Fences, Barns and Feeders (10085) Five Star Llama Packing (10001) Grooming and Basic Training -- SCLA (10063) How to Use the Kwick and Slick Grooming Tool – (10160) ILA Marketing Video (10111) In Search of the Ideal Llama -- conformation (10095) Inside 4-H Llamas – By ILA (10155) Llama Reproduction -- Part I & II (10009/10) Llama Training with Bobra Goldsmith -- (10003) Mallon Method, The - Difficult to Halter (10180) Mallon Method, The -- The First 24 Hours (10125) Mallon Method, The -- Halter Training Basics (10140) Rolfing a Llama -- (10103) SCLA 1995 Ft Worth Sale -- (10108/09) SCLA 1994 Conference Awards -- (10102) SCLA 1998 Conference Videos (two) – (10151) SCLA Seminar -- (Jensen) heat stress, nail trimming (10011) Spinning Wool, Basics and Beyond -- by P Zawistoski (10139) Step by Step Shearing -- for alpacas and llamas (10126) Texas A & M Seminar -- (Fowler) infectious disease & heat stress (10013) Teaching Your Llama to Pack – Marty McGee with Stanley Daugherty –video – TWO COPIES: --(10158) Texas Country Reporter – featuring John & Linda Keltgen (10157) Training Llamas to Drive -- (10044) Treasures of the Andes -- PBS (10090) "Treating" your Llama Kindly -- handling techniques with Dr. LaRue Johnson and Marty Mcgee (10128) TTEAM Approach to Herd Management -- McGee (10070) Vermonters Just Like to Felt Hats – video (10154) What Do You Do with a Llama? -- photography, Ley (10119) Why llamas? -- (10014)

Wonderful World of Llama Wool, The -- McGee (10121) Working In the Round Pen (3 tapes) John Mallon - 10124 Working with Difficult Llamas....by Ken Ploeser, (10162)

DVDs Llama Talk -- Cathy Spalding, Gentle Spirit Llama Training with Bobra Goldsmith Running of the Llamas: a documentary by Heidi Freier c. 2008 (10200) Spinning Luxury Fibers (3 DVD set) Judith MacKenzie Spinning Wool, Basics and Beyond -- by P Zawistoski Mallon Method, The -- Difficult to Halter Mallon Method, The -- The First 24 Hours Mallon Method, The -- Halter Training Basics Vermonters Just Like to Felt Hats -- The Herd of Northern Vermonters Wonderful World of Llama Wool, The -- McGee Working In the Round Pen (3 DVD set) John Mallon

Equipment Tooth-A-Matic rental $20 plus deposit SCLA members can check out items by emailing or calling Barbara Welch, Books may be kept for one month and video tapes for two weeks. Items are mailed at SCLA's expense. You pay the return postage.

Please return to: Barbara Welch 12830 Rebecca Creek Rd. Spring Branch TX 78070 Email Barbara at dbldare@gvtc.com or phone: 830-885-2388.

Updated June 2011

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Member Rates:

Front Cover...................... $125.00 Inside Covers.......................$80.00 Back Cover..........................$90.00 Full Page..............................$65.00 Half Page.............................$55.00 Quarter Page........................$45.00 Business Card......................$30.00 Insert Your Flyer.................$75.00 Classifieds.................25¢ per word

($ 3.50 minimum)

Non-Member Rates:

Front Cover...................... $175.00 Inside Covers.......................$95.00 Back Cover....................... $105.00 Full Page..............................$75.00 Half Page.............................$65.00 Quarter Page........................$55.00 Business Card......................$35.00 Insert Your Flyer.................$85.00 Classifieds.................40¢ per word

($ 5.00 minimum)

Humming Herald Deadlines

Specifications Print Ready Ads: Acceptable print ready ad formats are files at 300 dpi as a Press Quality PDF, TIF, EPS or PSD file. Please zip or stuff your file for faster email transmission.

Digital Photo Submission: When taking digital photos, it is always best to set your camera to its highest settings, which will give you the least amount of pictures on your memory card. Email the photo - in its original condition - to hummingherald@figmentranch.com for review. If your photo is not of the proper resolution, you will be notified.

Full Page Ad: 7.5” x 10” Half Page Ad: 7.5” x 4.725” Quarter Page Ad: 3.62” x 4.725” Business Card Ad: 3.62” x 2.25” 54 Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

Spring...........................February 1 Summer............................... May 1 Fall...................................August 1 Winter........................ November 1 Mail Print-Ready Copy to: Ruby Herron 17102 Mueschke RD Cypress, TX 77433

Contact her with questions at 713-249-8523 or figranch@flash.net Additional copies of the Humming Herald are available at a cost of $5.00 each plus $2.25 per copy for shipping. Copies must be ordered by deadline date. Send check, made payable to SCLA at the address above.

Membership Application Form

South Central Llama Association (www.scla.us) Name:____________________________________________________________________________________ Ranch Name:______________________________________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________________________________________ City:_________________________________________ State:____________ Zip___________________________ Phone : ( ______) _____________________ Email:_____________________________________________ _____Please DO NOT print my name in the Membership Directory (handed out to the public) Annual Membership Fee: $40.00 per household. All memberships expire January 31st of each year. $20.00 for first-time members who join after July 1.

Please mail a copy of this membership form with your check (payable to SCLA) to: SCLA MEMBERSHIP P.O. Box 163654 Austin, TX 78716

Associate Youth Membership Application Form South Central Llama Association (www.scla.us)

Youth Name:_______________________________________________________________________ Ranch Name:_______________________________________________________________________ Address:___________________________________________________________________________ City:__________________________________ State:________________ Zip___________________ Phone : ( ______)_______________________

Email:_____________________________________

Date of Birth______________________________ Name & Address of Adult Sponsor: ____________________________________________________________________________________ _____Please DO NOT print my name in the Membership Directory (handed out to the public) Youth Associate Memberships are non-voting and expire December 31st of each year.

Annual Membership Fee: $10.00 per youth, ages 5-19. $5.00 for first-time members who join after July 1.

Please mail a copy of this membership form with your check (payable to SCLA) to: SCLA Membership P.O. Box 163654 Austin, TX 78716

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Only if we can learn to work together will we realize our strength in numbers.

Free your mind and think.

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Humming Herald Newsletter Fall 2014

Figment Ranch

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