January 2018 WI Holstein News

January 2018

Volume 90 No. 1

Adult Convention Information Distinguished Junior Members Past DJM Roundtable District 5 report

Adams

Juneau

Green Marquette Lake

Columbia Sauk

Wisconsin Holstein Association 902 8th Ave., Baraboo, WI 53913 Phone (608) 356-2114 Fax (608) 356-6312

1-800-223-4269 www.wisholsteins.com Wisconsin Holstein News: Official Publication of the Wisconsin Holstein Association Published 11 months per year by Wisconsin Holstein Publications To Advertise: P.O. Box 49, Lancaster, WI 53813; Phone (608) 723-4933; Fax (608) 723-4973; e-mail: lauraw@wisholsteins.com

www.wisholsteins.com January 2018

VOLUME 90 No. 1

Features: 6 8 10 18 20 22

Achieving top production is topic of Hoard’s webinar WHA Adult Convention information District 5 Breeders Host Convention Tours WHA Board of Director election nominees Distinguished Junior Members Past DJM Roundtable

Departments: 6 14 14 26 27 28 29 30

From the President: Kevin Jorgensen Breeder Business Cards District 5 report WHA Princess Courtney Moser WHY Page Calendar of Events & Editor’s Comments Classified Advertising Index to Advertisers

On The Cover

This month’s cover (by K-K Rose Designs) features several well-known cows bred in District 5. Top row, from left to right: Wargo-Acres Blton Mopsie-ET EX-93, Heatherstone Redhot-Red EX-92, Walk-Era Dundee Annelise EX-95; bottom: Rosedale Lexington-ET EX-95, and L-Maples Hvezda Calli-Red EX-94. (photo credits: Mopsy-Nick Sarbacker, Lexington-Beth Herges, Redhot-Cybil Fisher, Annelise-Cybli Fisher, Calli-Vicki Fletcher)

4–wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018

P.O. Box 49, Lancaster, WI 53813 Phone (608) 723-4933 Fax (608) 723-4973 e-mail: lauraw@wisholsteins.com

WISCONSIN HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION STAFF: Darin Johnson, Executive Director Laura Wackershauser, Editor/Advertising Manager Mara Budde, Communications Associate

WISCONSIN HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION BOARD MEMBERS: Kevin Jorgensen, President (2018)* - 920-210-3992 801 Winter Ave., Waupun, WI 53963 Craig Carncross, Vice President (2018) - 608-592-2560 W13157 Co. Hwy. J, Lodi, WI 53555 Erica Ullom, Secretary (2020) - 715-933-0477 5398 County Hwy. A, Bloomer, WI 54724 Heather Jauquet, Exec. Committee (2019) - 920-371-7511 W2285 County Rd. S, Pulaski, WI 54162 Pam Selz-Pralle, Exec. Committee (2018) - 715-334-3434 N4621 US Hwy. 12, Humbird, WI 54746 Bill Calvert (2018)* - 608-732-2080 6038 County Rd. J, Cuba City, WI 53807 Steve Endres (2019) - 608-279-5952 7191 Hyer Rd., Waunakee, WI 53597 Sara Feldmann (2020) - 920-980-9704 710 Goldfinch Lane, Howards Grove, WI 53083 Joseta Halbur (2019) - 715-821-9672 120 E. Main St., Eden, WI 53019 Craig Krohlow (2020) - 920-639-5388 W4203 Shady Rd., Black Creek, WI 54106 Sherry Siemers-Peterman (2020) - 920-946-0123 16021 Hwy. M, Cleveland, WI 53013 Bryan Stremcha (2019) - 608-790-1925 N4381 Prairie Rd., Bangor, WI 54614 *WILL HAVE SERVED TWO THREE-YEAR TERMS, INELIGIBLE FOR RE-ELECTION

NATIONAL DIRECTOR:

Paul Buhr - 608-606-3480, Viroqua Corey Geiger, Vice President - 920-650-0294, Mukwonago WISCONSIN HOLSTEIN NEWS: (ISSN 0194-4401) (USPS 688160) is published 11 times for $50 per year by the Wisconsin Holstein Association, 902 Eighth Ave., Baraboo, WI 53913. Periodical postage paid at Baraboo, WI and additional offices. Additional magazines may be purchased at $5.00 for the first copy and $2.00 for each additional copy. Price includes shipping and handling.

Due to the uncertainties of the mail, the NEWS cannot assume responsibility for prior delivery of issues carrying advertising of sales scheduled for less than 14 days after the issue date.

Advertising is due the 10th day of the month preceding publication.

Advertising cannot be accepted over the phone, except by fax. Ad information must include name, address, phone of advertiser, amount of space needed, color if desired, photos if any and where they are.

The Wisconsin Holstein News and its employees do not verify the records, classification scores or any other information that is used in advertising that appears in the Wisconsin Holstein News. The advertiser is solely responsible for the accuracy of all information used in their advertising. The News shall not be held responsible for any loss due to inaccurate information appearing in the News. The employees of the News shall be available to help any member acquire verification for any information appearing in the News.

Under federal law, photographer’s pictures are copyrighted and owned by the photographic company. Prints sold are with a “single use” license and, in the case of the News, for use only in current or future issues of the News. Original photos must remain on site and may not be shared as prints or electronically without written permission of the photographic company through which the photo is copyrighted.

POSTMASTER: Send address change to: Wisconsin Holstein News, 902 Eighth Ave., Baraboo, WI 53913 Phone: 1-800-223-4269 or 608-356-2114 • Fax: 608-356-6312.

MADE IN THE U.S.A.

If you build it, they will come.

C-C JEDI...

+2653 GTPI & ONLY Jedi son from Mogul’s highest scored daughter with 97-MS!

91HO5903 COOKIECUTTER JEDI 12258-ET Reg. USA 8403130915829 PTA +1637M +.04%f +73F +.04%p +61P +728NM +5.4PL +2.2DPR +173FE 6.9SCE PTA +2.42T +2.67UDC +1.77FLC aAa: 4-2-6-3-5-1 (Strong - Tall - Style) C-C Jedi will sire strong, deep chests for healthy respiration and circulation, high rear udders and hard-tofind “6” style with central thurls, rounded feet for less hoof trimming and easy mobility, and level pins!

(Thomas)

His Famous Dam 9th generation EX-MS in the “Dellia” Family!

COOKIECUTTER MOGUL HANDY-ET

(Fisher)

(EX-94 97-MS DOM) GTPI +2363 2-05 3x 313 27,790 4.5 1254 3.4 938 3-05 3x 342 35,250 4.2 1480 3.3 1168 HHM All-New York 5-Year-Old for 2017 and Best Bred & Owned 5th 5-Year-Old at NY International Spring Holstein Show 2017 1st 5-Year-Old at Tri-County Holstein Show 2017 Next dam is MOM Halo (VG-88, EX-MS DOM), Nominated Holstein International Global Cow of the Year 2017! The next 7 dams are all VG and EX with EX-MS, from the family that produced Durham and Dundee!

C-C Jedi is an impressive bull - strong, upstanding, with a level rump and terrific leg and foot structure. He is destined to sire the “modern kind”... large volumes of high-component milk from cows that do it easily! PLUS he has great Productive Life, Daughter Pregnancy Rate, and Feed Efficiency values!

Wisconsin breeders - contact International Protein Sires for C-C Jedi & other sires from Field of Dreams Genetics!

Gary and Janet Tubolino & Family

Genetics, Corp.

41 Grove St. • Adams, NY 13605-1203 Fax: 315-232-4153 • Gary’s cell: 315-405-1588 www.fieldofdreamsgenetics.com wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018-5

From your President Kevin Jorgensen Happy New Year!

2018 is upon us and a time for new opportunities! But before we move to the future, I want to take a moment to thank two key individuals that have been instrumental to WHA. Sharon Maffei has been our membership coordinator for the past 15 years and has been the glue that holds WHA together. She has helped make the membership process go very smoothly over the years as well as been an integral part of helping plan nearly every WHA event throughout the year and been a committed part of the WHA team. Sharon is retiring this month to spend more time with her family and I want to personally thank her for all her years of dedicated service and for all her help to me during my time as President.

Additionally, with a growing family, Ashley Yager is going to transition from a part-time communications specialist at WHA to fulltime mom. Ashley also has spent over a decade with WHA first as a full-time employee and later as a part-time team member the past four years. She also has been a great ambassador for the organization and was instrumental in helping start the WHA YAC Futures Sale.

Her writing skills allowed us to tell the stories of WHA and its members through her feature articles. I personally again would like to thank her on behalf of the BOD and the membership for all her efforts. We look forward to her still being an active part of several committees and an active WHA member.

It is my pleasure to announce we have a new member of the WHA team - Mara Budde of Fox Lake. Mara is a UW-Madison graduate and is an active member of the dairy community. She is a former editor of the Agri-View newspaper and most recently was part of the marketing team at Sassy Cow Creamery in Columbus. Her writing and communications background as well as her outgoing personality makes her a perfect fit to our team as a Communications Assistant. She also is very involved in her boyfriend’s farm in Fox Lake and speaks the language of Holstein very well. Mara is a great addition to the team and along with Laura and Darin will help the organization to grow and serve you better. Please take the time at our state convention in February to introduce yourself to Mara and welcome her to our team as well.

District 5 has been busy preparing for the WHA Holstein Convention on February 16-17 and we hope you can join us in Wisconsin Dells. As usual, we will have committee meetings on Friday afternoon as well as an update from our Holstein USA leadership.

The YAC committee is working hard to find consignments for the Futures Sale on Friday night as well as several embryo packages that will be sold in a silent auction format throughout the convention.

Saturday morning, we will be hosting a technology early bird session featuring robotic experts followed by the annual business meeting.

Following our awards luncheon, we will get the opportunity to visit Walk-Era and So-Fine Bovines, two great herds in District 5. It looks to be a great weekend!

Best wishes for a great 2018 and look forward to seeing you all soon.

KJ

BULL SHIPPER Semen Sales

Craig Krohlow 920-639-5388 W4203 Shady Rd., Black Creek, WI 54106

Achieving top milk production levels to be covered in the upcoming Hoard’s Dairyman webinar The January webinar, “How they achieve 40,000 pounds of milk per cow” will be presented at noon (Central time) on Monday, January 8, during the free monthly Hoard’s Dairyman webinar series.

National Dairy Shrine’s 2017 Distinguished Cattle Breeder Tom Kestell, and his nutritionist of 25 years, Steve Woodford, will discuss optimal cow care and consistent nutrition. Their approach Tom Kestell also includes an investment in the best dairy cattle and forage genetics available. The webinar is sponsored by Quality Liquid Feeds (QLF), www.qlf.com.

Hoard’s Dairyman launched its free webinar series six years ago in conjunction with the University of Illinois. These educational sessions are held the second Monday of each month and are broadcast live from noon until 1 p.m. (Central time). Attendees are encouraged to submit questions before, during, and after the webinar. They will be answered at the conclusion of the presentation.

Each hour-long webinar includes nationally known and carefully selected presenters who discuss the most timely and relevant challenges faced by today’s dairy producers. Past topics include finance, nutrition, milk quality, herd care, milk marketing, and dairy policy.

There is no cost to register or to view the webinars. To sign up, go to our registration page (on.hoards.com/New-web-signup) and complete the brief questionnaire on your role in the industry. Once registered, an email reminder is sent with future webinar dates and times, and there is no need to register again. If you are unable to attend a live webinar, they are recorded and can be accessed later on the Hoard’s Dairyman website under the webinars’ link (www. hoards.com/archives). All of the previous webinars have been archived and have been seen by over 119,000 viewers. To learn more about the webinars, visit www.hoards.com/webinars.

In addition, the webinar series is approved for continuing education units (CEU) by the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists. Each hour-long webinar earns one CEU. Hoard’s Dairyman invites you to join us on the second Monday of each month – for just one hour. And you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home or office.

Established in 1885, Hoard’s Dairyman informs and educates dairy farmers and those who work with them. Every issue of the magazine places emphasis on feeding, breeding and animal health, as well as general farm management. Attention is also given to farm equipment, crops, facilities, milk quality, and governmental activity.

Contributing authors include researchers and extension specialists from agricultural colleges, veterinarians, dairy producers, and other authorities related to dairying.

Welcome to These New Members Adult members: Larry Warnecke, Milladore Scott Christensen, Abbotsford Larry Sauder, Lancaster Mary Brand, Ellsworth Kenneth Martin, Colby Larry Brubacker, Jr., Stratford Mollie Hathaway, Hollandale Junior members: Matthew Stingle, Black Creek Emmy Walker, Wisconsin Dells Roslind & Riley Anderson, Ellsworth Elena Jarvey, Sobieski Cole & Jenna Kudrna, Janesville Malcolm Spoke, Waterloo Kylee Hathaway, Barneveld Makenna Gilbertson, Hollandale Alyssa Clintsman, Loyal Aaron & Ashley Nadelhoffer, Jackson

wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018-7

2018 Wisconsin Holstein Convention February 16 & 17 • Wintergreen Resort 60 Gasser Rd., Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965 • (800) 217-0897 A block of rooms has been reserved at the following hotels: • Wintergreen Resort, 60 Gasser Rd., 800-217-0897. Rooms range from king or double queen for $89.00 per night or deluxe suite, superior whirlpool or family room for $109.00 per night. Ask for the Wisconsin Holstein rate. Room rate available until January 19, 2018.

• Alakai Hotel & Suites, 1030 Wisconsin Dells Parkway South, 800-593-9392. Nightly rate of $109.99. Ask for the Wisconsin Holstein Convention. Room rate available until December 31, 2017.

• Clarion Hotel, 626 W Pine St., Baraboo, 608-356-6422. Nightly rate of $119.00 for a double. Ask for the Wisconsin Holstein rate. Room rate available until January 16, 2018.

Convention Registration Name 1 (as to appear on name badge)

______________________________________________________

Name 2 (as to appear on name badge)

______________________________________________________

Name 3 (as to appear on name badge)

______________________________________________________

q I’m a first-time adult convention attendee q Receiving award at Convention q Friday Evening Dinner q Past President’s Breakfast q Saturday Luncheon q Farm Tours q Saturday Banquet q I’m a first-time adult convention attendee q Receiving award at Convention q Friday Evening Dinner q Past President’s Breakfast q Saturday Luncheon q Farm Tours q Saturday Banquet q I’m a first-time adult convention attendee q Receiving award at Convention q Friday Evening Dinner q Past President’s Breakfast q Saturday Luncheon q Farm Tours q Saturday Banquet

Address ________________________________________________ County ____________________ Phone ______________________________ E-mail ________________________________________

Friday Evening Dinner

Number of Tickets

Price/Person Postmarked by 1/19/2018

Price/Person Postmarked 1/20/2018 and after

Total

_____

$20

$30

_____

_____

$15

$25

_____

_____

$15

$25

_____

_____ _____ _____

$40

pre-registration required

_____

N/C

N/C

_____

$25

$35

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Fried fish & Roast Pork Loin buffet

Past President’s Breakfast Buffet breakfast; for Past WHA Presidents & spouses only

Saturday Luncheon Buffet

Painting Project

Limited space! pick project 1 or 2

Farm Tours Saturday Evening Banquet Stuffed Chicken Breast with Roast Sirloin

Total Enclosed

_______

Registration forms must be postmarked by January 19 to receive the lower rates. Ticket availability after the January 19 deadline will depend on the hotel caterer. There will be a trade board at the convention for extra ticket sales.

Mail your forms with checks payable to “District 5 Holsteins” to: Holstein Convention, Heidi Endres, N1738 Adlaw Dr., Lodi, WI 53555 Questions? Please call Heidi Endres at 608-206-2233 or email knhendresfarm@gmail.com ONLINE MEAL REGISTRATION NOW AVAILABLE WWW.WISHOLSTEINS.COM 8–wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018

WHA Adult Convention Schedule February 16 & 17 Wintergreen Resort, Wisconsin Dells hosted by District 5 Holstein Breeders Friday, February 16 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Registration open 12:30-5:30 p.m.

Dairy Bar open 12:45 p.m.

National Delegate meeting 1:00-2:00 p.m.

Holstein USA town hall forum 2:15-4:15 p.m.

WHA Committee Meetings 5:00-6:00 p.m.

Pre-Sale Social Hour 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Dinner YAC Education Award Top Performer and Lifetime Production Awards presented 7:00 p.m.

WHA Futures Sale hosted by Young Adult Committee 8:30 p.m.

Social time with Dueling Pianos Saturday, February 17 7:00-8:00 a.m.

Past President’s gathering (Past Presidents and spouses only) Dairy Bar open 6:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

8:00 a.m.-6 p.m.

Registration open 8:00 a.m.

Early Bird Session 9:00 a.m.

WHA Annual Business Meeting 11:30 a.m.

Luncheon; recognition of juniors to compete at National Convention; recognition of GMD and DOM, PBR & PGA Herds, 40 & 50 Year Members, Wall of Fame inductees 1:30-5:00 p.m.

Farm Tours to So-Fine Bovines and Walk-Era 1:30-4:30 pm.

Barn Quilt Paint Project 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Social Hour 6:30 p.m.

Awards Banquet WHA Board recognition; Advertising Contest winners; awards presented for Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder, Distinguished Service and Distinguished Breeder Dessert Auction to benefit Scholarship Fund 8:30 p.m.-12 a.m.

Social Sunday, February 18 Breakfast on your own WHA Board Re-organizational Meeting please note some items may change up until convention

Barn Quilt Paint Project

Join D5 and paint your own 2 ft. x 2 ft. painted barn quilt square.

You can pick between two designs - Design 1: Ohio Star or Design 2: Corn and Beans. Project will be drawn out for you and all you need to do is pick your color of paints and paint your project! When you are done, it will be ready to hang inside or outside.

Design 1

Thank you to these 2018 Convention Sponsors Platinum Sponsors AgriBlenders Columbia Co. DHI GenOvations Inc. International Protein Sires Lodi Veterinary Care

Gold Sponsors

Allied Cooperative ABS Global Inc. Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica BMO Harris Bank Compeer Financial CP Feeds LLC Equity Cooperative Livestock Foremost Farms USA Landmark Services Cooperative Parnell Life Sciences Star Blends LLC

Silver Sponsors

Big Gain Wisconsin LLC Ballweg Implement Co. Culver’s Family Insurance Center Meinholz Enterprises Rabo AgriFinance Union Bank & Trust

Other/In-Kind Sponsors

ANIMART Inc. Baraboo Candy Company Carr Valley Cheese Grande Cheese Co. Juneau County Dairy Promotion Board Marquette County Dairy Promotion Board Sartori Cheese Sauk County Dairy Promoters United Cooperative

Design 2

ONLINE MEAL REGISTRATION NOW AVAILABLE WWW.WISHOLSTEINS.COM wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018-9

BREEDER PROFILES

District 5 Herds Host Convention Tours

by Ashley Yager

So-Fine Bovines Jeff Buchholz & Jim Kruger Families, Westfield ince 1995, the Jeff Buchholz and Jim Kruger families have been working together to allow each producer to focus on what they do best. They combined the Buchholz family’s 60 cows and the Kruger family’s 100 cows to create So-Fine Bovines LLC, a 630-cow freestall operation and successful dairy business.

At So-Fine, Jeff is the dairy manager and is responsible for the daily operations including milk production, herd health, and genetics.

Jim is the general manager, and is responsible for forages, agronomy and nutrient management. Jeff ’s wife Lisa manages calf care, registrations, farm protocols and beautification of the farmstead.

Daughter Sarah assists with calf and young stock care, son Brooks is the herdsman and looks after genetics, and daughter Jade is a nutritionist for an Ag consulting team. Jim’s late wife, Sue, took care of all the office manager duties. Son Jakob is currently at Iowa State majoring in Ag Business, and will be returning back to the business as assistant crop manager.

The crew at So-Fine have an impressive RHA at 32,303 pounds of milk, with 1202 pounds fat and 990 pounds protein. They run a somatic cell of 125,000. There are just shy of 700 heifers on the farm, and have 20 Jerseys sprinkled in the milking herd. The Buchholz and Kruger families have bred a number of Gold Medal Dams and Dams of Merit, and have sent a few bulls to stud. Their herd ranks with some of the best for milk production.

There’s no doubt successful dairy herds have implemented some form of technology, and So-Fine has utilized a heat detection system since May of 2010. They are currently using Cow Manager, and also rely on Dairy Comp 305 and TMR Tracker daily to help keep everything running smoothly.

The Buchholz and Kruger families attribute much of their success to a few key items. “Consistency and efficiency help drive our operation.

We are able to raise all of our feed, have a great group of employees and work with well-respected consultants that allow our operation to be profitable,” comments Brooks Buchholz, herd manager.

One of the stand out ladies at So-Fine is Bucky-J Buckeye Ohio, EX-90. Ohio is a descendant of the first cow Brooks purchased, Wegnerlann LJ Starburst, a VG-87 Linjet. She is working on her sixth lactation, has over 272,000 pounds of lifetime milk to date and is currently pregnant to Jedi. Ohio has daughters and granddaughters

by Shottle, Montross, Corvette and McCutchen. Ohio’s Shottle daughter, Bucky-J Shottle Slick, GP-83, is at 134,000 pounds of lifetime milk and carrying a Montross calf.

The So-Fine herd has hit on some index animals, too, and S-Fine Holy Toledo, GP-83 is one. Toledo is a McCutchen that is one of the highest indexing cows on the farm at +2334. She has a Corvette heifer on the ground and is currently bred to Modesty.

Another high-type female on the farm is S-Fine Talent Twix, EX-90. Sired by Talent, Twix was one of Jade’s last show heifers, and the farm is home to daughters and granddaughters by Bradnick, 10–wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018

S

Brazzle and Corvette. Twix’s daughter, S-Fine Kit Kat is an EX-90 Big Time daughter with 170,500 pounds lifetime. Her VG-85 Bradnick daughter suffered a stifle injury in her second lactation, but gave the farm a nice Brazzle daughter currently in her second lactation (S-Fine Mars Bar). S-Fine Carmello is a Clark daughter from Kit Kat, just fresh in her second lacation. Both Carmello and Mars Bar will be on display for the February Convention tour.

S-Fine Givenchy 3309 Glory, GP-83, headlines one of the most overlooked family at So-Fine. While the cows aren’t flashy, they are trouble-free and milk well through their lactation. In fact, 3309 has made 258,470 pounds of milk in five lactations. In six calvings, she has had seven heifers and a single bull.

Glory’s daughters are following their dam’s footsteps. S-Fine 3961 Manga Moppit has made over 143,000 in three lactations, S-Fine 4273 Bradnick Blast is VG-85 and made 122,260 in three lactations, and S-Fine 4670 Intrepid Iris-TW is VG-85 with 83,480 in two lactations. Glory also has a fresh Howie and twin Monterey heifers on the ground.

Brooks and the team at So-Fine incorporate both proven and genomic sires into their program. Historically, they have focused on high-type sires with good udders, feet and legs, with high production.

The last year and a half, the focus has shifted to moderate frame with high production and components, higher DPR and decent udder components.

Currently in the tank at So-Fine are Montross, Bob, Morgan, Pety, MVP, Silver, JoSuper, Cannon, Jedi, D-Rock, Modesty, Super Spring, Firefly, Skyfall and Bourbon. Some of the favorite cows in the barn are sired by Gabor, Crown, McNuggets, Supersire, Shottle and History. Standouts in the heifer pens include those by Jedi, Heisenburg, Kingboy, Bourbon, Silver, Monterey, Scenario, Montross and Yoder.

As a family-driven operation, the Buchholz and Kruger families are working to transition the farm to the next generation. They hope

So-Fine Bovines calf barn built in 2012

Brooks Buchholz with S-Fine 3013 Brewski Landis, VG-87 to improve transition and dry cow housing, feed storage and manure storage. The families will also look at technology that will help them stay competitive. The managers at So-Fine also see the challenge with the dairy industry and reaching consumers to help them understand food safety and how it is produced.

The Buchholz and Kruger families are very excited to welcome Wisconsin Holstein breeders to their farm in February during the annual Adult Holstein Convention.

Walk-Era Farms Walker Family, Wisconsin Dells uilt on family and faith, Walk-Era Farms of Wisconsin Dells is truly where dreams of excellence are coming true.

The farm has come a long way since its birth in Wisconsin in 1941. Today, Walk-Era Farms consists of 825 acres with an additional 130 rented, for a total of 800 tillable acres. All cattle are raised on site under the care of the Walkers.

Perhaps one of the most unique aspects of the farm is that all families involved today live within a three-mile radius of the barn.

Walk-Era is a family corporation, including Dean and Doris Walker and their sons John, Tim, and Tom and their families.

While the entire family is a part of the farm and stays very busy, they still make time to enjoy the kids and activities they have to offer.

John enjoys watching his kids’ ballgames. Tim likes to hit the golf course and hunt, as well as coach his girls sports. Tom is a member of the WI River Coop Board of Directors, and hunts and shoots sporting clays.

Within the industry, John and Marci are serving on the Executive Committee for the 2019 National Holstein Convention. They are also gearing up for the 2018 Adult Holstein Convention that will be held in the Dells and hosted with fellow District 5 Holstein breeders.

The Walker boys developed a passion for the show ring at an early age, and attribute much of what they learned early in the show industry to Jerry and Al Haberkorn. They have done a tremendous job of putting their mentor notes to action, as the Walk-Era herd has

B

Welk-Shade Atwood Koko-ET EX-95

The Walker Family - standing, left to right: John, Marci, Nora, Tom, Jackie, Nash, Tracy and Tim. Sitting, left to right: Brett, Alli, Dean, Dori, Gracie, Libby and Emmy bred 120 Excellent cows to date. The quality of cattle in the herd today through years of selective breeding can be seen in their 110.4% BAA that includes 33 Excellent, 58 Very Good and only 10 Good Plus cows. The herd’s RHA is also over 24,000 pounds milk on 2x/day milking with 4.0% 976 fat and 3.11% 760 protein.

Walk-Era has developed a winning formula for both breeding and developing high-caliber Holsteins, as 2017 marked the first time they had a cow hit EX-95 – and they had two. One bred by the Walker family, Walk-Era Dundee Annelise (owned and developed by the team at Budjon and Tim and Sharyn Abbott) and one owned and developed by the Walker family, Welk-Shade Atwood Koko-ET. Koko was purchased as a heifer from Welk-Shade and turned seven in September. Her next dams are an EX-91 Triumphant x EX-93 DOM Charles x EX-94 3E Sterling. The Walkers look forward to continuing their embryo work with Koko and her offspring.

Not only did Annelise score big for her owners this year – she made waves in the show ring as well. She and her daughter both took home champion banners during the International Junior Holstein Show at World Dairy Expo.

The Walker family exhibited Budjon-Abbott Automatic, a Doorman winter calf from Annelise, the Grand Champion of the Junior Show. At World Dairy Expo, Automatic was first winter calf and Reserve Junior Champion of the International Junior Holstein Show and fifth in the open show. Earlier this summer, Automatic was fourth in the junior show and ninth in the open show at the Wisconsin Championship Show and was the first place Winter Calf in the third group at the Wisconsin Junior State Fair. North of the border at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, Automatic took home seventh place honors. She wrapped up the year being nominated Junior AllAmerican, All-American and All-Canadian.

Annelise’s dam is Walk-Era Talent Augusta, EX-91 2E, and her 2nd dam is an EX-91 Outside that the Walker family purchased in Pennsylvania many years ago as a young 2-year-old.

Annelise was a very special and successful project heifer for Alli as a summer yearling in 2013, placing first at the Wisconsin Junior State Fair. Annelise calved in as a super prospective Junior 2-year-old

Walk-Era Dundee Annelise EX-95

Budjon-Abbott Automatic-ET wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018-11

and won her class at the International Junior Holstein Show and was Junior All-American in 2014 as well as Nominated All-American in 2014. She was sold to Budjon Farms and Tim and Sharyn Abbott and they have continued to do a tremendous job developing Annelise.

Annelise fits the bill in every way. Not only does she look the part, but her offspring are following in her footsteps and providing a lot of excitement for the Walkers as they develop this family. In fact, Annelise’s first natural calf by Gold Chip went EX-90 as a second calf three-year-old this fall.

Annelise’s Doorman and Goldwyn calves at Budjon stood out when they picked out and purchased Automatic this spring. Annelise looks to be a true transmitter and her offspring have had a tremendous year. Along with the Grand Champion honor for Annelise herself, her daughters stood first, second and fifth in the winter calf class of the International Junior Holstein Show. In the open show, her daughters stood second, fifth and sixth in a strong class of 50 heifers.

The Walker family added another outstanding female to their arsenal in recent years – OCD Lauthority Monet-ET, EX-91. Monet’s daughters did very well in the show ring in 2017, and there will definitely be more of them hitting the shavings in the future. Monet is a Lauthority from an EX-94 Durham, then an EX-92 GMD Encore bred by Mayerlane.

After seeing this list of leading ladies and others over the years from the Walker’s herd, it’s no surprise they have stuck to a tradition of breeding with what works and keeping an eye on the pedigrees and matings that produce high-type individuals. They like to understand the breeding patterns of sires before incorporating a large volume of them into their tank. The Walkers are currently using Byway, Unix, Diamondback, Dempsey, Doorman and Solomon.

The Walkers have done an outstanding job marketing select individuals as project calves. They consign to sales, and sell 20-25 cows for dairy replacements each year. Type remains a key component to their breeding and marketing programs, and allows them to compete at all levels.

Walk-Era truly is a family affair, and from the youngest to the oldest everyone is a part of the farm where dreams of excellence really are coming true.

Upcoming Issues February March April

WI Futures Sale ads due January 12 District 10 feature Midwest Holsteins ads due February 7 Junior Convention Results Production Issue ads due March 9 Adult Convention Results District 4 feature

2018 Breeder Advertising Rates Black/White Rates PAGE Full Page 2/3 Page 1/2 Page 1/3 Page 1/4 Page

REG. $240.00 $180.00 $150.00 $115.00 $85.00

6x OR MORE $210.00 $155.00 $130.00 $100.00 $75.00

OTHER CHARGES Full Color (4 Color Process) - $200.00 Second Color - Page $60.00 50-60% Page - $45.00 < 50% Page -$30.00 Photos - $8.50 each Call Laura with questions or for Commercial Rates. 608-723-4933

Wishing everyone the best in 2018!

A special thank you to our genetics customers in 2017: Blue Star Dairy Farms Ronald Kelm Donnie Nieman and Chelsey DeVries Dehnel Farms Five Star Dairy Adam Faust Gary and Patty Edelburg Stempfle Holsteins, Iowa Vir-Clar Farm Pittman, Spears and Stone, Arkansas JeďŹ&#x20AC; Pankratz Virgil Ripp, Jr. International Protein Sires Make plans to attend the state convention in the Dells.

We have been hard at work in District 5 and would love for you to see what we have been up to!

Gordon & Emily Carncross | Craig & Jen Carncross W13157 Co. Hwy. J, Lodi, WI 53555 wargoacres@gmail.com | 608-592-2560 Craig cell BAA: 108.3% on 300 cows

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Juneau

Green Marquette Lake

Columbia Sauk

RHA: 31,522 3.8 1196 3.1 981 wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018-13

District 5 Report Watch for your chance to advertise & promote your county association in future issues. The February issue will feature District 10 - Calumet, Fond du Lac, Manitowoc, Sheboygan & Winnebago counties.

Adams

Juneau

Green Marquette Lake

Columbia Sauk

Adams County

2017 Adult Membership: 4; Jr. Membership: 4

Columbia County

2017 Adult Membership: 31; Jr. Membership: 20

Green Lake County

2017 Adult Membership: 6; Jr. Membership: 1

Juneau County

2017 Adult Membership: 16; Jr. Membership: 1

Marquette County

2017 Adult Membership: 9; Jr. Membership: 6

Sauk County

2017 Adult Membership: 43; Jr. Membership: 21

District 5 Holstein Breeders Club

Officers - President: Chris Davis; Vice President: Sandy Madland; Secretary: Marci Walker; Treasurer: Nicky Rueth; At-large directors: Jodi Behn - Sauk Co., Heidi Endres - Columbia Co., Brooks Buchholz Marquette Co., Garrett Madland - Juneau Co. Junior Officers - President: Hannah Hockerman; Vice President: Melissa Sprecher; Secretary: Alli Walker; Treasurer: Levi Kindschi; Reporter: Mikayla Endres; At-large officers: Abby Field, Austin Rieder and Sara Hagenow.

While our industry changes, we were finding that breeders were wanting more connection with people of like interests. There were fewer Holstein breeders and leaders in the counties of Adams, Columbia, Green Lake, Juneau, Marquette and Sauk to work together and do the tasks needed at the county level, particularly when hosting a district show. Initially we formed a District-wide show committee for a couple years to see how things worked out. We set up the committee to spread the work load for our annual district show. Each committee member took an area of responsibility in major areas including: sponsorship, grounds, event staff, show book and awards. The breakdown and sharing of responsibilities really aids in making the show

move forward smoothly and spreads the work load. Individual team members typically take the same responsibilities year after year.

Following the District 5 Juniors who formed in 2010, and the District 5 Show Committee, the District 5 Holstein Breeders Club was formed in 2016. The formation of the club project started with a vote to proceed simply looking into the organizational transformation. Each county dusted off their historical bylaws to review obligations and rights of members. With assistance from the WHA office, a letter was prepared by the district and then sent out to each member in each of the six District 5 counties for a vote to support or not support and form a new distrtict-wide club. The vote passed unanimously. Each county contributed $1,000 to begin the new organization. Some of the county organizations resolved at that time and many did not. Those that did not decided to simply wait and see how the new district-wide club came together and worked out. By-laws for the club were drafted and officers elected.

District 5 Holstein Breeders Club is further sharing the load with the 2018 Adult Convention Committee including Heidi Endres, Jodi Behin, Sandy Madland, Chris Davis, Brooks Buchholz, Dawn Hockerman, WHA Vice-President Craig Carncross and Marci and John Walker. Each person has taken on a part of the convention planning to work with and get other members to help for the areas of hotels, farm tours, dairy bar, sponsorship, barn quilt paint project, and history.

Upon accepting the task of hosting, everyone was in agreement that hosting something together would help us keep coming together and it certainly has while we have been meeting monthly this past year.

Each month we meet in Chris’ heated garage and each bring a dish to pass.

Some of the activities that District 5 has desires to plan for in the future include a twilight meeting, setting up a day of farm tours in another county and an on-farm picnic combined with our junior members. We look forward to hosting you at the Winter Green in Wisconsin Dells.

This year the D5 juniors started out 2017 celebrating at Wizard Quest in Wisconsin Dells. We also had lunch as a group. We then participated in quiz bowl at the Junior Convention. In the spring, we visited the National Dairy Shrine. In June we elected new officers and exhibited at the District 5 Show. All of us then had our county fairs and then many of us met up at State Fair. Our next adventure is Junior Convention in January to be held in Stevens Point.

Dwight & Shelly Mayer 4965 County Rd. E, Slinger, WI

REGISTERED HOLSTEINS & BROWN SWISS Breeding age bulls, heifers, calves and young cows available - we sell only from our best lines.

Call Dwight’s cell: 262-224-6838

Rickert Bros. LLC Home of Rickland Holsteins

Doug, Linda, Clint, Corey & Tammy Hodorff N3832 Hwy. W, Eden, WI 53019

Jim & Kelly, Greg & Laura, Andrew & Shannon, Don & Lila Rickert Eldorado, WI 54932

Tel: (920) 477-6800 • Fax: (920) 477-2520 E-mail: mail@secondlookholsteins.com

rickertkel@gmail.com • 920-960-9640

Stop in anytime for a second look!

RHA: 1037 cows 31,221 3.9 1220 3.0 943 22 Year Progressive Genetics Herd

14–wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018

Budde joins Wisconsin Holstein as Communications Associate

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Juneau

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The Wisconsin Holstein Association is excited to announce Mara Budde, Fox Lake, Wis., as their Communications Associate.

Budde will create marketing and communications strategies, manage digital communications, plan events, create editorial for the Wisconsin Holstein News and help coordinate WHA youth events and programs. Additionally, she will play an important role in coordinating efforts for the 2019 National Holstein Convention.

“Mara’s experience in social media and writing is a perfect fit for the WHA team,” said Kevin Jorgensen, WHA Board President.

“Additionally, her enthusiastic personality and knowledge of the dairy industry will be key assets to the membership.”

Formerly the Sales and Marketing Assistant at Sassy Cow Creamery, a farmstead dairy in Columbus, Wis., Budde gained experience on the food processing side of the dairy, coordinated social media efforts, managed the retail store and planned promotional events.

Along with her role at WHA, Budde manages calves and helps milk 60 cows at Wildweed Holsteins & Jerseys. She enjoys spending time with the calves and young stock, watching them grow and develop. When time allows, Budde enjoys showing her Holsteins and Jerseys at all levels of competition.

3Apple family 3Our barn favorite 3 Transmits high type & genomics

Ms D Apple Dreamer-ET now EX-90 EX-MS! 4-03 2x 365 28,030 4.2 1178 3.1 744 Sire: Shottle Dam: Ms Delicious Apple-Red-ET 2E-94 Res. AA R&W Aged Cow 2014 Nom. AA R&W Jr. 2-Year-Old 2010 2nd Dam: Apple-Red 3E-96 DOM Res. Grand Champion, WDE 2013 Grand Champion, WDE 2011

• We have 51 offspring from Dreamer, including daughters & granddaughters

by Carson, Airlift, Atwood, Defiant, yoder, McCutchen & Beemer • Atwood daughter, Hahncrest Atw Danica VG-87 2y and +3.45T, was 1st as a yearling and Junior 2-year-Old at Iowa State Fair; now owned by Ferme Blondin & Richard Villeneuve • Recently scored granddaughters - yoder VG-86 2y, Defiant VG-87 2y, 2 Atwoods at VG-85 and 1 Atwood at VG-86 • Her offspring were at one time the #2 type heifer and the #1 red genomic bull

Adams

Juneau

Green Marquette Lake

Columbia Sauk

H

ahncrest olsteins

DANIEl HAHN & FAMIly E6028 Hwy. W, Loganville, WI 53943 608-727-3545 • 608-415-7120 cell hahncrest@wicw.net Inquiries welcome! wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018-15

16â&#x20AC;&#x201C;wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018

O

ur lives changed on Friday, 7/7/17, when Doug was hit head on in a car crash on US 45, just north of Waucousta. We firmly believe Doug and the two people from the other car are alive today due to the quick thinking and lifesaving actions of neighbors, concerned passersby and our local fire, rescue, and police personnel.

Doug was transported by Flight for life Helicopter to Theda Clark Hospital in Neenah. While at the hospital, staff from the helicopter shared “It is unusual for a helicopter to be called to an accident, but three helicopters at an accident are almost unheard of. The efficient actions on site were like textbook training in a trauma class.” Thank you.

A

t Theda Clark, Doug underwent four operations in eight days. After 14 weeks in the hospital and Peabody Manor in Appleton for rehab, Doug returned home on October 13. Following two months of outpatient rehab in Fond du lac, and the addition of a boot for his right foot, he progressed to walking with a walker, then a cane. He has been blessed with outstanding medical care. We firmly believe medical talent alone could not have saved Doug’s life without the prayers and support of family, neighbors, and members of our entire community. Thank you.

F P

or 2018, we are spending the winter months in Grand Island, Florida, where rehab will continue, and plans are progressing for left hip replacement. If you will be in Florida during the winter, we’d enjoy hearing from you. lease accept our thanks for your support which has arrived in so many ways.

We will be forever grateful for your prayers, encouragement, and helping hands.

Happy New Year blessings to you and yours, Doug & linda Hodorff and the entire Hodorff Family wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018-17

WHA Board of Directors Elections

At the 2018 Wisconsin Holstein Convention, elections will be held for four board of director positions. Kevin Jorgensen and Bill Calvert have completed their second term on the board and Craig Carncross and Pam Selz-Pralle are eligible for re-election to their second term. If you are interested in running and would like to run a bio in the February issue, please contact the Wisconsin Holstein News by January 15.

Erica Lundberg, Osseo My name is Erica Lundberg and I farm with my dad, Allan, at Bert-Mar Farms in Osseo where we milk 100 head focusing on high type and deep cow families.

I am the fifth generation in my family to farm and I have a strong passion for Registered Holsteins.

As a former educator, I enjoy working with youth.

Each year I work with families through project animals at the county, district, and state levels. It is our responsibility to do all we can to educate, motivate, and encourage younger generations to continue with Registered Holsteins.

I hope to bring my passion, energy, and creativity to the Wisconsin Holstein Board and would appreciate your support. I am looking forward to seeing everyone at convention!

Ryan Weigel, Platteville Hello Holstein friends. My name is Ryan Weigel and I would like to announce my candidacy for the Wisconsin Holstein Board of Directors. I currently am employed at East Central Select Sires as a Dairy Programs Manager serving Southwest Wisconsin. I am also co-owner of KHW Genetics with my business partner Ryan Kamps and additionally a managing partner on my family’s dairy: Weigland Registered Holsteins. I reside in Platteville with my wife Traci and children: Kaelyn (14), Kenadee (12), and Keegan (7).

Giving back to an organization that has given so much to me is a very strong reason of why I am running for this board. I bring board experience that currently includes World Dairy Expo and National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB). I have previously served on the Lafayette County Holstein Board and the UW- Platteville Ag Advisory Board. Additionally, I have had the pleasure of serving as one of your delegates to the National Holstein Convention the past couple of years.

For me, our association is a family affair from showing to conventions and everything in between. The youth in our industry are our future and very important to me. Not only do I have three children that are very involved in the association, but I also work closely with the youth in our county through dairy cattle judging. I also assist in coaching the UWPlatteville dairy judging team. Our youth programs are possibly the strongest asset we have as an organization and I know that will continue for years to come. Keeping enthusiastic youth involved in our organization as they transition to adulthood is vital to our success!

With your support, I look forward to working with a wonderful group of individuals that will lead your Wisconsin Holstein Association through many successful years. Thank you!

Bob Cramer Jr., Juda Hi, I am Bob Cramer Jr. from Juda, in Green County. I would like the chance to represent you, the members, of the Wisconsin Holstein Association by serving on your Board of Directors!

My wife, Nikki and I own and operate a 76 acre, 50 registered cow farm - RHC Holsteins. This was a dream come true in 2000 when we moved to the farm we reside on. We started with five Registered Holstein cows and 50 grade Ayrshires. Today, it is all Registered Holsteins.

We raised our three kids, Bryan, Alyssa and Kelsey, here and they have all been active Junior Holstein members. They all participated in different competitions at Junior Convention like quiz bowl, speaking, and junior ads. I’d like to thank you all of you for the opportunities you have given them throughout this association.

Not only have my kids been very active in this and other organizations, I have too. I have served on the Green County Holstein Board and Green County DHIA, where I served for three years as the President for 18–wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018

both organizations. Currently, I am part of the Dairy Youth Auction Committee for the Green County Fair. Lastly, I serve on the Chalet Cheese Co-op Board.

I would like to serve on the Board of Directors, as a way to give back to this association as you have given myself, and my family so many different opportunities. I would also like to help others have similar opportunities that my family has had. I’d also like to be able to give them the support that I have been given as well.

Thank you for your consideration!

Pam Selz-Pralle, Humbird As Registered Holsteins play a tremendous role in my life, I would be honored to be re-elected to the Wisconsin Holstein board. Serving this past year on the WHA Executive Committee has been challenging and eye-opening. With change comes opportunity! I will continue to bring my energy, creativity, business savvy, and Ag. Board experience to the WHA board as we navigate 2018 and prepare for the 2019 National Convention. It’s been a pleasure to serve the membership.

Scott and I milk 425 cows in Clark County. We are familiar faces at county, state and national Holstein events. I would appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you in Wisconsin Dells!

Craig Carncross, Lodi My name is Craig Carncross and I am throwing my hat back in the ring for a second term on the Board of Directors. I have been serving as your Vice President for the past year. I farm in Lodi with my wife Jen and sons, Gavin (8) and Nolan (6), alongside my parents Gordon and Emily. Our farm name is Wargo Acres, from my grandpa Warren (War) and my dad Gordon (Go). I graduated from UW-Madison and then came home to join the family corporation in 1999. Some leadership roles I have held include serving on my local DHIA board, serving as the chairman for the District 5 Show and serving on the state show committee. I have also had a variety of roles helping youth, from coaching dairy judging teams to judging county fairs. I have also served as a delegate to the National Convention and was honored to be awarded the National Younger Distinguished Breeder award in 2017.

Wisconsin Holstein has passionate membership and a strong financial balance sheet. It has been a busy three years during my first term and has had it challenges for sure, but as members you can be proud of the highly engaged and motivated board of directors that have been elected to navigate the association. I have learned a lot and would be honored to continue serving the membership.

I feel that I am well suited to represent the breeders of Wisconsin because of the variety of avenues I have been involved in with the Holstein business. I also understand that it is important the breeders of this state have a strong and vibrant support network that has their best interests in mind and works for them. The dairy industry is rapidly changing and so is our niche that we call Registered Holsteins. I want to continue to make being a member of Wisconsin Holstein a good investment that represents the wide array of dairies and the numerous ways one can be involved with the Registered Holstein. I would appreciate your support and would be honored represent you as a Board Member.

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wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018-19

2017 Distinguished Junior Members Allie Breunig is the 19-year-old daughter of Mitch and Jacquie Breunig of Sauk City. The Breunig family owns and operates Mystic Valley Dairy, a 400-cow Registered Holstein herd. Allie is a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-Madison studying Life Sciences Communication and working towards a certificate in Agricultural Business Management.

In addition to being actively involved in the Wisconsin Junior Holstein Association, she is a member of the Badger Dairy Club, Association of Women in Agriculture, Collegiate Farm Bureau, Badger Meat Science Club and National Agri-Marketing Association.

Jenna Broege, Janesville, is the 18-year-old daughter of Phyllis and the late Steve Broege.

Jenna owns and shows Rock-Edge Holsteins with her two sisters, Kristen and Nicole.

Currently, she is a freshman at the University of Wisconsin-Madison majoring in Dairy Science. On campus she is involved in Badger Dairy Club, Association of Women in Agriculture and Collegiate Farm Bureau. Jenna shows at local, state and national shows. In the future she hopes to have a career promoting the agriculture and dairy industries.

Kelsey Cramer is the 20-year-old daughter

of Bob and Nikki Cramer. She has two older siblings, Bryan and Alyssa. She lives on her family’s dairy farm, RHC Holsteins, outside of Juda. Kelsey is a sophomore at UW-Eau Claire where she is majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She is responsible for many different tasks on her family’s farm and loves working with and showing her Registered Holsteins. Throughout her whole life she has been involved with agriculture and loves every moment to advocate for the dairy industry. Kelsey credits the Junior Holstein Association for helping her find this passion.

Carmen Haack is the daughter of Pete and Vonnie Haack of Algoma. She grew up loving the dairy cow from the moment she could walk, spending all her time on her family’s farms.

Glo-Crest Holsteins was a herd owned by her grandparents, Gary and Linda Olson, in Algoma until 2004, when the herd moved to Pulaski to form Synergy Dairy with Carmen’s aunt and uncle, Heather and Jay Jauquet.

Carmen currently attends UW-Madison where she is majoring in Dairy Science with a certificate in Agricultural Business Management. She hopes to some day work within the dairy industry she has grown to love.

Kaianne Hodorff feeds calves and files registrations at her family’s dairy farm, Second Look Holsteins LLC. She helps with additional farm responsibilities along with her parents, Corey and Tammy, and sisters, Kayli, Kalista and Kaydence. Currently a junior at Campbellsport High School, she enjoys playing basketball and soccer, refereeing youth soccer games, coaching youth soccer and helping teach Sunday School. Kaianne serves as treasurer for the Fond du Lac County Junior Holstein Association and is a member of Armstrong 4-H. 20–wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018

Kalista Hodorff is the 18-year-old daughter

of Corey and Tammy Hodorff. Along with sisters Kayli, Kaianne and Kaydence, Kalista completes multiple tasks at their century family farm, Second Look Holsteins LLC in Eden, including translating farm protocols and newsletters to Spanish. Kalista is a freshman at the University of Wisconsin-Madison majoring in Dairy Science. On campus she is involved with the Association of Women in Agriculture and Badger Dairy Club. Kalista is a member of the Armstrong 4-H club and serves as secretary of the Fond du Lac County Junior Holstein Association and Fond du Lac County Dairy Committee.

Carley Krull is the 20-year-old daughter of

Cindy Krull-Begeman and the late Brian Krull.

She grew up on Krull Farms, Lake Mills, where they milk 50 Registered Holsteins and Red and Whites along with a few Jerseys. Carley has been very active in 4-H, FFA and the Wisconsin Junior Holstein Association, where she currently serves on the Junior Activities Committee. She is a sophomore at Iowa State University majoring in Dairy Science. On campus she is involved in the ISU Dairy Science Club where she serves on numerous committees, as well as the ISU Pre-Vet Club.

In the future, Carley plans to work within the dairy industry and eventually return to Krull Farms to breed and develop her own herd of elite registered cattle.

Rachel McCullough is the 18-year-old

daughter of Chris and Kathie McCullough of Juda. She also has a brother, Mac. Rachel is a senior at Juda Public School, a member of the Juda FFA and the Green County Junior Holstein Association. She enjoys showing at county, district, state and national shows. In her spare time, Rachel likes to go to shows and sales.

Samuel Minch is the 20-year-old son of

Glenn and Shelby Minch of Green Bay. Samuel is currently a junior at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls where he is majoring in Dairy Science with a minor in Agrcultural Business. On campus he is involved in Block and Bridle, serving as treasurer, Dairy Club, and Collegiate Farm Bureau. Back home, Samuel is involved in the Wood County Junior Holsteins, serving in many officer positions. He was also very active in 4-H and FFA. After graduation, Samuel hopes to stay active in the dairy industry in any way possible.

Austin Nauman, 20, is the son of Danielle

Nauman and Scott Sanford. Austin graduated from the UW-Farm and Industry Short Course with a certificate in Dairy Herd Management.

He works as a dairy cattle fitter, in addition to managing his herd of Registered Holsteins, Jerseys and Ayrshires. Austin graduated from Sparta High where he was a captain on the hockey team and President of the FFA. He has been involved in 4-H, dairy bowl, dairy jeopardy and dairy judging. He was a 2013 National YDJM Finalist. His long term goals are to develop and market an elite herd, and attend auctioneering school.

Dawson Nickels is the son of Thomas and Penni Nickels of Watertown. He is currently a freshman at the University of WisconsinMadison where he is becoming involved in organizations like the Badger Dairy Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau, and the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity. He is also involved in the Richwood Rangers 4-H club and is very active in the Dodge County Junior Holstein Association, serving as the secretary. He participates in dairy bowl, dairy jeopardy, and dairy judging. Dawson and his sister Kylie are also developing animals of their own and others on their small-scale farmette, Dream Fix Holsteins and Boarding.

Joseph Opsal is the 19-year-old son of

Troy Opsal and Jane Sarbacker and lives on his family farm, Opsal’s Ridge Registered Holsteins, located in Blue Mounds. He is currently attending Madison College to obtain a degree in commercial photography.

After graduation, he hopes to work on the family farm and have a photography business on the side. Joseph is serving as Vice-Chair on the Junior Activities Committee.

Nicole Pralle is the 20-year-old daughter of Scott Pralle and Pam Selz-Pralle. She grew up on a 400-cow dairy farm in Humbird. A junior at the University of Wisconsin-Madison majoring in Dairy Science, she is active in the Badger Dairy Club, Association in Women in Agriculture, Collegiate Farm Bureau and NAMA. Nicole received the 2016 CALS Outstanding Sophomore award. This past summer she interned at Marieke’s Gouda Farmstead Cheese in their sales and marketing department.

Nicole is chairman of the Junior Activities Committee and has earned National DJM Finalist and YDJM awards. Nicole plans to pursue a career in agribusiness marketing.

Lindsey Sarbacker is the 18-year-old

daughter of David and Candi Sarbacker. Her family includes Ashlyn (15) and Cole (13). They reside at Floydholm, an 80 acre farm near Edgerton where they house show heifers.

Lindsey is a freshman at the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she is majoring in Dairy Science with an Agriculture Business Management certificate. She has been on the Dane County team for dairy bowl and dairy judging and currently serves as the Vice President for the Dane County Junior Holstein Breeders. Lindsey is also an active member of the Triangle Troopers 4-H club. She enjoys showing cattle at local, district, state and national levels.

Ryan Smith is the 20-year-old son of Randall and Jane Smith. He has three older sisters, Kristen (Shane) Rismeyer, Nicole and Tanya, and lives on his family’s dairy farm, Quad-R Holstein in Monticello. Ryan has been involved in Junior Holsteins, 4-H, FFA and has shown cattle at district, state and national shows. He is currently a junior at UW-Platteville where he is majoring in Dairy Science. On campus, he is a member of Pioneer Dairy Club and the Dairy Judging team. Ryan plans to have a career within the dairy industry and return as the sixth generation on the family farm.

Brooke Trustem is the 19-year-old daughter of Sandy Larson and Jim Trustem. She is a sophomore at the University of WisconsinMadison where she majors in Dairy Science and is the Outreach Specialist for the Badger Dairy Club with also being involved in the Association of Women in Agriculture and Collegiate Farm Bureau. Her two brothers are Dane (18) and Luke (15). Brooke and her extended family farm together at Larson Acres Inc. She has been showing cattle since she was five years old. Brooke’s daily responsibilities include caring for the show/sale cattle. Her other duties include being an assistant herdsman on the farm. At home, Brooke is a member of the Magnolia 4-H club, Evansville FFA Chapter and St. Paul’s Catholic Church.

Alli Walker is the 18-year-old daughter of

John and Marci Walker. She has a younger brother Brett. She was raised on a 100-cow Registered Holstein dairy farm, Walk-Era Farms near Wisconsin Dells. As an active member of the District 5 Junior Holstein Association, Alli participates in dairy bowl, dairy judging, showing and serves as an officer. Alli is a freshman at Madison College where she is pursuing a degree in Animal Science. She is also on the Madison College Wolfpack Softball team. She plans on continuing her education at a four-year university and also to pursue a career as a large animal veterinarian.

Danielle Warmka is the 20-year-old daughter of Russ and Laura Warmka. She comes from a 500-cow dairy farm in Fox Lake. Currently she is a junior at the University of WisconsinMadison where she is actively involved in the Association of Women in Agriculture, Badger Dairy Club, and Collegiate Farm Bureau.

Danielle has been showing cows for about 11 years at local, state and national levels. Over the years, her passion for the dairy industry has grown tremendously and she is continually getting involved in numerous activities. Some of her main activities besides showing are dairy bowl, dairy jeopardy and dairy judging. She was elected the Area III National JAC representative at this past year’s National Convention. In the future she hopes to continue to support these youth organizations and activities any way that she can.

Don’t miss these Upcoming Deadlines!

Top Performer entries are due January 13. The entry form was printed in the December issue of the News and is also available for download on the WHA website.

Do you have a calf for this year’s Treasure Quest? Calf entries are due February 1 to the WHA office.

The entry form for the Treasure Quest is also available on the WHA website.

Treasure Quest tickets are available for purchase from any member of the board of directors or by calling the WHA office. wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018-21

Past Distinguished Junior Member Roundtable Do you ever wonder what happened to the outstanding junior members from years past? As a bonus to the write-ups featuring this year’s Distinguished Junior Members, we decided to catch up with some DJMs from the last 30 years and ask them about their experiences with the Junior Holstein Association. Thank you to all who participated in the roundtable.

1. Tell us about yourself.

Nicholas Schuster, DJM 2013: I grew up on Bee-Bows Acres, a 40 cow farm in Fond du Lac with my parents Ivan and Mary. We sold out in the fall of 2006. After that I purchased good pedigree cattle to show at local, state, and national shows. I keep a bunch of heifers at our home farm and I keep my milk cows at a couple farms in Wisconsin at my partners farms.

Throughout high school and going to school at UW-Madison Farm and Industry Short Course I worked for Forest Ridge Holsteins and the Great Northern. I currently work at Budjon Farms.

Stephanie Nagel, DJM 2008: Currently, I reside in School Hill, Wisconsin about 10 minutes away from the home farm in Newton.

I’ve worked at CP Feeds as a dairy nutritionist/consultant for the last four and a half years; servicing producers primarily in northern Door, Manitowoc, Sheboygan, and Ozaukee counties. As an intern and now parttime job, I currently relief breed cows for Genex/CRI one weekend a month.

I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville in 2013 with a degree in Animal Science with a Dairy and Business Emphasis.

My parents, Paul and Tammie Nagel, and three siblings still run the home farm, Nagels Home of Holsteins. Joe, 24, works in Milwaukee for the US Senate; Rachel, 20, currently works and goes to school for accounting; and Garrett is 15. Up until five years ago, we milked 80 Registered Holsteins with a RHA of 27,800 pounds of milk twice a day. Since the cows have been sold, we now raise 130 steers, custom heifers, wet calves, and still have a few milk cows around to feed the calves. We run about 300 acres of land and do some small custom jobs on the side. I still stay involved around the home farm helping with field work, owning cattle, and doing chores daily. My boyfriend, Keith Abts also owns a herd of 130 cows around New Franken. During the summer, I also enjoy gardening and showing..

Aaron Breunig, DJM 2003: I grew-up in Manitowoc and was fortunate to work with my Dad, Richard Breunig, at Clover-Mist Farms. This got me involved with Registered Holsteins. My interest in the dairy industry led me to a degree in dairy science with the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where I met my wife, Nicole. We have two beautiful boys Gavin (4) and Ethan (2) and anticipate the arrival of Baby Breunig in January 2018.

We were able to grow our herd of Registered Aaron, Ethan, Gavin & Nicole Holsteins through key offerings at public sales and by working with Nicole’s parents Kelley and Ruth Hosto. We recently purchased a farmette just south of Manitowoc and are retrofitting the barn to house our heifers. We are working with cattle that go back to Clover-Mist animals I worked with, genetics from Nicole’s family’s herd Hosto Registered Holsteins, and cattle we have both admired in the industry: August, Tony Beauty, Elegance, and Dellia.

Unique, elite genetics is something I also work with daily in my role as an authorized Reseller for Priority IAC. Priority IAC products provide strains of Smart bacteria research proven to stabilize and maintain rumen pH; I work with herds across Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois as an animal health consultant and nutritionists, depending on their needs.

22–wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018

Rick Schwenck, DJM 1998: I’m proud to share that I am a dairy farmer living on the original homestead that my forefathers founded with my family, Kristy and Sami.

My passion to be a farmer started at an early age growing up in Fond du Lac County where I farmed with my parents on our 60-cow operation. While attending UWRiver Falls, I was active in Dairy Judging and was a member and officer of the UWRF Dairy Club.

Kristy, Sami & Rick Upon receiving my Bachelor’s Degree in Dairy Science, I returned home to farm with my parents until 2003. At that time, my family joined four other families to build Lake Breeze Dairy, LLC. In addition to being an owner/partner, I acted as the herd manager overseeing our dairy cattle and was actively involved in setting the stage for our future business growth.

As our team grew, so did our desire to continue to provide opportunity for the future generations. Breeze Dairy Group was formed in 2012 and currently we have three dairy farms in Wisconsin where I serve as the Livestock Manager responsible for the health and productivity of the cattle on all the farms.

Denise Hagen Stutika, DJM 1988: I grew up in Milton with my parents, Keith and Sharon, and one sister Michelle (Austin) on a 280 acre Registered Holstein farm.

I have two daughters Melysa (13) and Lauren (10) who are becoming more active each year in Melysa, Denise & Lauren showing dairy and we love every minute of it. This year was their first experience showing at the Wisconsin State Fair and World Dairy Expo.

From about 15 years old on I have had various jobs including working in a veterinary clinic and managing a sports store while taking classes. It was during that time that I “accidentally” fell into Law Enforcement. A female officer friend from the gym had told me I would be great at the job because they needed more smart, strong females who could handle themselves in difficult situations. Here I am, 23 years later after two years working in Rock County Jail and 21 years at the Janesville Police Department. For the past two years I have been a School Resource Officer. I have really enjoyed the change and working with the kids in the school. I also run a growing skincare business with two other longtime Holstein friends, Bonnie Berezowitz Brantmeier and Nicky Reape Rueth.

2. What were your involvements in the Junior Holstein Association and what is your current involvement in the Holstein Association/Holstein industry?

Schuster: I’ve been a member of the Wisconsin Holstein Association as long as I can remember. I showed at district and state shows. At conventions I participated in dairy jeopardy and dairy bowl. I went to cow camp as a younger youth. I then went on to being a JAC to help the organization that I had so been active in. Currently working at Budjon Farms, my involvment is going to local, state, and national shows. Working there allows me to see and interact indusrty people on a more regular basis.

Nagel: As a junior I loved to partake in all the events that Junior Holsteins had to offer. I started out at the age of 10 being the first generation to show dairy cattle. Even though my family grew up with registered cows, we were more into the business of selling replace-

ments/cattle and never showed at any shows. Looking for a club to join, I then joined Manitowoc County Junior Holsteins. I started off showing at the county fair that year and later showed at both the district and state shows. This was the start of my involvement in the organization. From there, I participated in dairy bowl for eight years, dairy jeopardy, the essay contest, photography contest, and put together many county scrapbooks. I was also named a YDJM one year, and was a DJM for five years. I later represented the state as a national DJM in 2012. I also had the privilege of helping plan both a county and national Holstein Convention.

Currently, I am an active member in our state and county Holstein Association. Every year I show at the Manitowoc County Fair and periodically a district show or futurity show. I own quite a few head of registered cattle, and I am always looking to improve those genetics from our families herd. In addition to the Holstein Association, I am also our county’s YFA Farm Bureau chair. In the future, I hope to expand my herd of registered cattle and continue my involvement within the association by serving on a board or in other facets.

Breunig: In the Junior Holstein Association, I was involved with different levels of leadership within our county organization. I also did dairy bowl, showing, and was a member of the Junior Activities Committee.

Presently I am part of the Manitowoc County Holstein Association and a member of the board. It’s a great time to be a part of the organization as the next few years will be very busy in Manitowoc and exciting to be back in my home county – stay tuned!

Schwenck: I participated throughout my entire youth on the Fond du Lac County junior and senior Dairy Bowl teams and Dairy Judging teams. I also showed at county and state fairs. Today, I continue to share my passion for the Junior Holstein Association by providing show cattle, supporting and teaching local youth that desire the opportunity to show at county and state fairs.

Hagen Stutika: As a Junior Holstein member I participated in dairy judging, Junior Holstein convention and we frequently were showing at the District 6 Show, Wisconsin State Show, State Fair open and junior shows and World Dairy Expo. Back in the day there were local twilight meetings on local farms that we always attended. Those gatherings were always a favorite relaxed gathering visiting other farms, socializing and participating in a small judging contest.

Currently, we raise heifers on the home farm and the girls and I help out there almost every day with chores and training heifers to lead. Now that my daughters are getting older their interest is growing and we are becoming increasingly active again. Melysa and Lauren love showing dairy at all levels and are starting to take more of an interest in other activities. We always participate in dairy promotion activities like the local Dairy Breakfast. Dairy judging, cow camp and Junior Convention are all on our radar now for this next year. It makes me happy to be passing these things on and see my girls enjoy doing the same things I have enjoyed over the years.

3. What were the greatest benefits from your participation as a junior member?

Schuster: With all the events I participated in from state to national convention, I have meet so many people that are now lifelong friends.

I'm thankful for all the opportunties were given to me.

Nagel: Being a junior member really prepped me for my future as a young agriculturalist. A few standout qualities that I learned as a junior included a plethora of dairy bowl facts, leadership skills, teamwork, public speaking, and writing fundamentals. There are numerous times that these benefits have influenced me in both the field and in job interviews. Every day I have the privilege of working with many producers through my job at CP Feeds. No one client has the same personality or communication style. Knowing how to effectively communicate between us has helped both the producer and myself.

I can also recall using much of the same process of the DJM interviews when I ran for Alice in Dairyland in 2015. Running for Alice was the most extensive three day interview that I have ever gone through. Knowing how to properly put together a summary binder of your agricultural involvement was extremely valuable. I will be forever grateful for learning these qualities at a young age and having the encouragement to participate in these events.

Breunig: Definitely meeting different people. After the sale, I was so

lucky to have area farms give me a chance to milk cows and do chores a few nights a week so I could stay involved with cattle. There were wonderful registered breeders that would have summer work, would need show help, or classification clipping that gave me the chance to clip and get out there.

Meeting parents and juniors alike, was a very educational and rewarding experience. There were even a few youths in the area that I worked with to get animals for so they could show at the county or state fairs. Being able to talk with different breeders, see different farms, help other youth, and share enthusiasm for the organization and the Holstein breed were among the greatest benefits.

Schwenck: Often, we pay too much attention to what successful people are like, and too little attention to where they are from: that is, their culture, their family, their generation, and the distinctive experiences of their upbringing. The relationships created when I was a junior member still continue today; from personal friendships to business. My network within the dairy industry has grown and developed significantly and I attribute my interpersonal skills from the experiences I had as a junior member.

Hagen Stutika: I have so many things I could list here. First, being a junior member participating in activities and showing cattle kept us close to our family and what was going on at the home farm. Even if it was a junior activity it many times included parent and family involvement. Getting ready for a show took everyone helping to get the work done and at times there was a little judging practice during chores.

Another one of my favorite benefits is all the friends I have met over the years at all the shows and events. I am still in contact with so many people that I met as a junior. That is one of the positives of social media. I love that we can keep in touch and now watch each other’s kids grow up and have their time in the show ring.

Also being a person who has never been a fan of public speaking, giving reasons in a judging contest was my first real experience at any type of public speaking. I think it is a great start to being able to speak in front of others.

4. What was your favorite activity or memory during your years as a Junior Holstein member?

Schuster: My junior dairy bowl team won the state contest allowing us to compete at national convention. It was my first national convention and I was able to put the names and faces to people of this industry. My other favorite was being a JAC. It really was a rewarding job to give back to the association and help the youth be involved like I once was.

Nagel: As a junior member, my most memorable junior experience was the National Conventions and being named a National DJM Semifinalist. The many miles we put on traveling out to conventions made for some great memories and lifelong friends. While there in 2012, I also recall touring Missouri’s dairy industry. It is vastly different than what we experience here in Wisconsin. Not only is the climate considerably different, but the way they run the land and the forages they feed are atypical to what we have here in Wisconsin.

During our visit there, we also learned how to deal with 108 degree weather!

Breunig: Being a part of the JACs is full of great memories and the conventions were among my favorite activities. It got me out across the state interacting with people, doing different things, and getting to meet people from within the county and other counties. Going somewhere different each year was a cool experience. There was a lot of work and effort to get ready for the Conventions as a JAC, which was very rewarding.

Schwenck: Showing at State Fair where I met many new friends.

Hagen Stutika: I have many wonderful memories from my years as a junior member. Answering questions like this really makes you start to reminisce over all the things you have done. I have so many great memories of many class winners and Junior and Reserve Junior Champions from county fair to World Dairy Expo. All the show ring success has been amazing and can’t be easily overlooked, but it is only a part of my favorite things.

Showing will always be a favorite activity, but if I were going to narrow it down more it gets difficult but I always looked forward to continued on page 24 wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018-23

Past DJM roundtable, continued from page 23 Junior State Fair as a kid. Several days of showing and getting to see friends from other counties and getting to know new friends. We rarely left the barn unless it was a large group going down the Giant Slide.

It also became a yearly tradition to go to the Alabama concert for several years in a row with the same group of people. Friends in and out of the ring and still today.

5. Any other information you would like to share with us?

Schuster: I encourage juniors to be agressive and active - there are so many oportunties available for youth to do and be involved in.

You don’t realize how these experiences may help through your life’s journey.

Nagel: To wrap up a few points, I cannot express my gratitude enough to those that have influenced me throughout my junior years

as a member. They truly shaped me for who I am today. I encourage all juniors to actively get involved and take advantage of all the opportunities that this great organization has to offer. You will not be disappointed, but instead be disappointed in what you didn’t participle in years later. I look forward to continuing to grow in my involvement and serve this organization for many years to come.

Breunig: The Junior Holstein Association gives you the opportunity there is a lot out in the world. There are a lot of good people and good breeders out there that are willing to help if you are willing to put the time in. There’s a lot of people out there that want youth to have the experience, you just have to ask. By asking, the knowledge you will receive is incredible.

Schwenck: I’d encourage today’s juniors to become more involved in various clubs or organizations to gain skills that will benefit them in their future. Stepping outside your comfort zone is tough, but by starting early, the opportunities that are ahead for you will be greater.

The Tradition Continues - Royal Winter Fair & Farm Visits At 5:30 a.m. on Sunday, November 5, our group of friends and Holstein enthusiasts met at Chuck Westphal’s Westphalia Farm in Fond du Lac. Chuck was in the barn milking and met us with a big smile and warm welcome. After an opportunity to view the always impressive Westphalia herd, we headed for Waterloo, Ontario, Canada and arrived at about 6:00 that evening.

Over the next few days we made 21 farm visits. The outstanding Canadian farms we visited were: Hazelcrest, Hanalee, Hanalee II, Darcroft, Walnutlawn, Fraedon, Glenbert, Claynook, Erbcrest, Brenland, Bossdale, Quality, Farisview, Beckholm, High Point, Holtbyholm, Phoenixholm, Vale-O-Skene, Raivue, Ronbeth and Crovalley.

The farms varied from very rustic old-style, to newer very elaborate stall barns, and new latest style freestall barns with the latest milking parlors or robotic milkers with alley scrapers and robotic feed pushers. Most had very elaborate entrances, trophy rooms and offices.

The breeding programs varied from Canadian old school to the latest, cutting edge genomics and everything in between. Everywhere we went we met enthusiastic Holstein breeders and saw cows we all would like to have taken home.

On Friday we made our way to Toronto to the Royal for the Red and White Holstein Show, the Black and White Show, the horse shows and the Sale of Stars.

This trip is getting to be a tradition for most of us. This year we did something new - all eight of us formed a syndicate and bought Walnutview Diamondback Suellen at the Sale of Stars. Suellen is a 10 month old red carrier with a show record. She is a Diamondback daughter from Misty Springs Lavengard Sue, VG-89 max score. Sue was the number one cow for conformation in Canada and the dam of many high ranking type daughters and sons, including Walnutlawn Solomon at Semex and Walnutlawn Mcutchen Summer, EX-92, Nominated All-Canadian and All-American Senior 3-Year-Old in 2016. Sue is also one of only four cows nominated for the 2018 Cow of the Year in Canada. Four generations of females from the Sue family have ranked number one for conformation in Canada. Many high genomic young bulls from this line continue to enter A.I. units.

We are very excited - stay tuned!

Suellen is housed at Sunshine Genetics and is being flushed to Riverdown Unstopabull, the number one red Holstein bull in the world for conformation (+19 for conformation & +19 for mammary).

Other high genomic sires are being considered for future flushes.

We all had a very enjoyable trip. Many great memories and memorable events were experienced.

After the selection of Grand Champion Holstein, we headed back to Wisconsin. Chuck had previous commitments and couldn’t go this year. Dave Rose also decided not to go this year. For Dave, this trip is really a tradition - for 52 years he never missed a year! Plans are already being made for next year. Good Lord willing, maybe Dave you can go again next year. We all hope so - we missed you and Chuck as well.

What happens in Canada stays in Canada! Until the cows come home - so long until next year.

24–wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018

Quality Farms & Quality Seed - After giving us a tour of the barns, Paul Ekstein invited us into his office for more hospitality and cow talk. Even with 14 of the best cows at the Royal, the herd was impressive. Our group, from left to right: Gene Nehls, Dean Solie, Craig Harris, Mark Ireland, Al Silverthorn, Scott Srnka, Bruce Hoeft and Joe Hughes with Paul Ekstein seated.

The new & very elaborate Darcroft Farm - Darcroft moved this year to a new farm with all new beautiful facilities. Paul McLoud and sons own the operation - great people, beautiful facilities, wonderful Holsteins. Paul is a former President of Holstein Canada and his wife is a Wisconsin native, the former Ellen Lee.

wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018-25

Courtney’s Cattle Crossing Happy MOO year! As our beloved bovines beller in the new year, let us take some time to set new year’s resolutions that are tailored to us as Holstein enthusiasts.

Are you a junior looking for a place to begin or enhance your own path into cattle crossings? If so, I would like to suggest a few resolutions for you.

1. Attend a cow-related event you have not been to before.

Whether that event is a county fitting and showing clinic, a cow show, the National Holstein Convention, a dairy breakfast, cow camp, or one of the many opportunities you may hear about, I encourage you to go to a new event. Each one allows attendees the chance to gain knowledge, meet and connect with other dairy youth and have fun all while doing it.

2. Keep track of your activities and awards throughout the year and use this as you complete a junior award form. By compiling a list of what you have been involved in and any awards you may receive as you go through the year, filling out a junior award application will be a bit simpler. It’s never too early to get a head start!

3. Obtain a new role on the farm. Whether you live in town and dedicate one day a week to helping with chores or you live on your family’s farm and step into a higher-level role, these new experiences will help you grow in numerous ways. I encourage you to take the opportunity to try something new.

4. Invite a friend from a non-farm background to visit the farm you are connected with.

This would be a wonderful opportunity to share your knowledge with another person and allow them to get a feel for what life on the farm is like.

5. Work for at least 30 minutes every day with your project animals over the summer and beyond. By repeatedly taking the time to work with your show cattle, you will not only help them to improve their skills but you will grow from the experience as well. Repeated practice makes perfect, right?

For adults with a wealth of knowledge, skills and years of experience, consider these resolutions: 1. Leave a legacy by sharing your knowledge with those just entering their agriculture career. With years of experiences and lessons learned along the way, who better to give advice to those just starting out than you? Share your passion, stories and encouragement. You never know when your advice will be beneficial to the recipient’s career or life in general. Chances are, they will smile and think of you because you took the time to connect with them way back when.

2. Get out of the barn and spend quality time with family and friends. It’s obvious that you love your cows because of the number of hours you spend with them, but I encourage you to make some extra time to spend with your loved ones. They need your support too. A wonderful opportunity to get away from the farm and connect with fellow Holstein enthusiasts is by attending the Wisconsin Holstein Association Adult Convention. Make plans to have help for that weekend so you can enjoy some time away.

My final set of resolutions are for people of any age who are passionate about Holsteins.

1. Support your fellow dairy producers and yourself by consuming the suggested three or more dairy products a day. Not only will you be adding to our state’s economy, but you will benefit nutritionally.

2. Meet and connect with at least five new Holstein enthusiasts. It’s important to make connections, so I hope you will push yourself out of your comfort zone and talk to others. It may even be more than five people!

3. Exhibit positive sportsmanship no matter the placing you receive at each show. Look past your animal’s placing and show kindness and respect to all others exhibiting their beloved cattle. Kindness may just be the best reward.

Quite possibly the best resolution we can all set is to thank those that help us along the way, applaud people for their strengths, lend encouragement and share kindness. Everyone can use a little extra happiness in their life, so let’s be the ones to share it.

Going along with that final resolution, I would like to thank each and every one of you for the roles you have played in making my own cattle crossings so fantastic - especially throughout this past year! Your kindness, encouragement and the connections I have made are all near and dear to my heart. I am forever thankful.

I wish you all blessings in the new year and encourage you to keep your new year’s resolutions.

May our cattle crossings continue to meet for years and years down the road.

All the best, Courtney Moser 2017 Wisconsin Holstein Association Princess 26–wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018

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608-723-4933

The University of

WISCONSIN MADISON Dairy Science

STUDENT PROFILE Name: Megan Lauber Hometown: Union Grove, WI School: Union Grove H.S. Class Size: 283 Farm: Lauber Farm/ Hillpine Holsteins Major: Dairy Science with Agriculture Business Management Certificate Why did you decide to attend UWMadison? I chose to come to UW-Madison because of the beautiful campus and atmosphere as well as the great agriculture programs, clubs, and research opportunities.

What has been your most memorable college experience? One of my most memorable college experiences was studying abroad in Mexico for two weeks. It was interesting to see and learn about the biodiversity of Mexico, their dairy production systems, other agriculture commodities, trade, and how it affects our food system.

What has been your favorite course? My favorite courses have been lactation physiology, animal physiology, and animal ag and sustainable development.

What are your future career goals? My career goal is to work as a dairy nutritionist focusing on calf and young heifer programs while continuing to be active on my family’s dairy farm.

UW-Madison Inquiry Lives Here Dept. of Dairy Science 1675 Observatory Drive Madison, WI 53706 Ph. 608-263-3308 Fax 608-263-9412 www.wisc.edu/dysci/ Contact: Ted Halbach

The 2018 WI Holstein Treasure Quest What is the WI Holstein Treasure Quest?

This event is a celebration and promotion of high caliber calves and their breeders and owners. Proceeds from this event benefit the state association members and fund the state picnic held each year.

What can state members do to get involved?

State members can enter Registered Holstein heifers born between March 1 and December 31, 2017. Any state member can nominate a heifer using the form below. All entries must be received with a fee of $50 by February 1.

By entering your calf in the Treasure Quest, you are committed to potentially having the calf selected as the winner.

Additional Information

All calves entered will be on display at the Midwest Spring National Show and led into the ring at the time of the drawing. The Wisconsin Holstein News will feature a special section on the entered calves in the March and April issues.

WI Holstein Treasure Quest Calf Entry Form Heifer’s Registered Name ___________________________________________________________________________ Registration # _______________________________ Sire: __________________________________________

Birthdate ______________________________ Dam: __________________________________________

Dam’s Production Record: ______ Age ______ days ______________ M ________ F ________ P Owner’s Name: ___________________________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________ City, State, Zip: _______________________________ Telephone: _______________________________

E-mail: _______________________________________

Signature: ___________________________________________ o I have enclosed my $50 non-refundable application fee.

Due by February 1, 2018 to WI Holstein Association, 902 Eighth Avenue, Baraboo, WI 53913

By entering your calf in the Treasure Quest, you are committed to potentially having the calf selected as the winner.

TM

2018 Junior Membership Renewals

All membership renewal notices for 2018 were sent from the office in October 2017. All members received green renewal cards this year with notification of 2018 membership amounts. Please submit the card with payment to the office by January 15, 2018. In order to exhibit at WHA shows and attend junior events, membership for the year needs to be paid. If members have not seen a notice, they should contact Darin at the office. Please help your staff keep an updated database and let us know if you have not received your renewal postcard.

Scholarship Opportunities

The 2018 Wisconsin Holstein Scholarship applications are due March 1, 2018. The association has awarded an average of nearly $16,000 to members in order to assist them in their rising education expenses. Each year, loyal donors contribute items to the scholarship auctions at Junior and Adult Conventions in order to sustain our memorial scholarships and general scholarship fund. Thank you to the members who purchase these items in our auctions, and to the donors that offer these items for auction.

Be sure to watch the February WHY page for additional memorial scholarships that will be available in 2018. A link to the scholarship application will be posted on our website under the calendar of events and on the junior awards page. Watch social media for deadline reminders as well.

2018 Calendar of Events

February 1 2018 Treasure Quest Heifer entry deadline 1 National Holstein Women’s Scholarship Application Deadline 16 Wisconsin Holstein Futures Sale, Wintergreen Resort, WI Dells March 1 Deadline for Wisconsin Holstein Scholarship Applications 1 Deadline for John and Isabelle Ames Memorial Scholarship April 27 Midwest Spring Red & White Show, Madison 28 Midwest Spring National Holstein Show, Madison 30 Wisconsin Holstein Futurity LATE entries due. Must be postmarked on this date to be entered. Late fee applies.

May TBD Cow Camp June 15 District 1 Show, Menomonie 18 District 2 Show, West Salem 20 District 5 Show, Westfield 21 District 7 Show 22 District 10 Show, Plymouth 25 District 3 Show, Lancaster 26 District 6 Show, Monroe 28 District 4 Show, Wausau 29-July 3 National Holstein Convention, Michigan August 19-21 Wisconsin State Championship Show, Madison wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018-27

A

ACKY WPoint of View Editor’s Comments

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! The thing I love the most about the holidays is that we can all slow down for a few days and take time to spend with family and friends. And it’s the time of year that many of our juniors are getting excited to spend time with their friends at Junior Convention and are busy practicing their speeches, finishing up their arts and crafts entries, and studying for the Dairy Bowl and Dairy Jeopardy contests.

I’m looking forward to another great convention!

With the start of 2018, we say goodbye to a couple of long-time WHA employees. Sharon has been here almost as long as I have and we’ve been through a lot over the years. Thank you Sharon for being a valuable part of my support system, someone to talk to about anything, and the engine that kept the office running. I appreciate all the years you’ve dedicated to an association that you knew nothing about when you were hired!

Ashley has also been an important part of the success of WHA programs and the News over the years. Thank you for all of your work to help tell the story of our members and for your dedication to making our programs and events run as smoothly as possible. And more importantly, thank you for being a great friend and supporting me over the years.

With that said, we’re excited to welcome Mara Budde to our team and she’ll be thrown in the deep end right away at the Junior Convention. If you see Mara at one of our upcoming events, please introduce yourself and help welcome her to the WHA team.

The coming months will offer several opportunities for you to advertise herd highlights or any spring sale consignments you have. If you’d like to advertise in the February issue, give me a call

by January 12. And the March issue will be a Midwest Holsteins issue - with coverage to all of the upper Midwest states. Ads for the March issue will be due February 7.

Until next time...

28–wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018

CALENDAR

OF

EVENTS

January 2018 Classifying in Barron, Buffalo, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, St. Croix, and Trempealeau counties 5-7 WHA Junior Convention, Stevens Point 13 Top Performer entries due to WHA office February 2018 Classifying in Ashland, Bayfield, Burnett, Chippewa, Clark, Douglas, Florence, Forest, Iron, Lincoln, Marinette, Oneida, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, Taylor, Vilas and Washburn counties 1 Treasure Quest calf entries due to WHA office 16-17 WHA Convention, Wintergreen Resort, Wisconsin Dells 16 WHA Futures Sale, Wintergreen Resort, Wisconsin Dells March 2018 Classifying in Brown, Calumet, Door, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Ozaukee, Sheboygan and Washington counties 1 WHA Scholarship form due to WHA office 3 UW-River Falls Falcon Premier Sale, UWRF Mann Lab Farm 3 Purple Ribbon Classic, Marshfield 24 The Pursuit of Excellence April 2018 Classifying in Dane, Green, Iowa & Lafayette counties 6 Spring Selections at the Northern, Fond du Lac 7 MilkSource Select Sale, Kaukauna 14 RedFest with a Touch of Black, hosted by Crescentmead, Ixonia 27-28 Wisconsin Dairy Showcase, Madison May 2018 Classifying in Columbia, Dodge, Fond du Lac, Green Lake, Jefferson, Kenosha, Marquette, Milwaukee, Racine, Rock, Walworth & Waukesha counties 5 Crest-View-Acres Dispersal, Steve & Kay Holte, Westby 19 Define Your Destiny, Budjon Farms, Lomira

Future Dates June 15, 2018 June 18, 2018 June 20, 2018 June 21, 2018 June 22, 2018 June 25, 2018 June 26, 2018 June 28, 2018 June 30-July 3, 2018 August 17-21, 2018 April 26-27, 2019 June 24-27, 2019 July 5-9, 2019

District 1 Show, Menomonie District 2 Show, West Salem District 5 Show, Westfield District 7 Show District 10 Show, Plymouth District 3 Show, Lancaster District 6 Show, Monroe District 4 Show, Wausau National Holstein Convention, Acme, Michigan Wisconsin Championship Series, Madison Wisconsin Dairy Showcase, Madison National Holstein Convention, Appleton Wisconsin Championship Series, Madison

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Brian Greenman Agent Commercial, Farm & Personal Insurance

River Valley Veterinary Clinic, SC Plain & Reedsburg, WI 608-546-4911 | email: rvvets@gmail.com www.rivervalleyvet.net wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018-29

INDEX TO ADVERTISERS Alpha Genetics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 CRV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Cybil Fisher Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Field of Dreams Genetics . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 GenOvations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Go-Sho Cattle Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Great Northern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Hahncrest Holsteins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Initial Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 International Protein Sires/Our Help . . . . IBC KnH-Endres Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Koepke Farms, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Krohlow, Craig . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Maple-Leigh Futures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Mayer Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 NorthStar Cooperative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Origin Reproduction Services . . . . . . . . . 29 Rickert Bros. LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 River Valley Veterinary Clinic . . . . . . . . . 29 Rural Mutual Ins./Brian Greenman . 25 & 29 Second-Look Holsteins . . . . . . . . . . 14 & 17 Select Sires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 STgenetics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC & 29 Ultrascan, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 UW-Madison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Walk-Era Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC Wargo Acres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 WHA Futures Sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Holstein Association Representatives Sarah Trapp W16080 Merlin Road, Taylor, WI 54659 608-525-2901 cell: 608-628-1978 e-mail: strapp@holstein.com Chris Lyons W 5979 Lee Dr., Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 920-563-1082 cell 920-723-2406 e-mail: clyons@holstein.com Mandi Ramsburg 1510 Silverstone Trail #2, De Pere, WI 54115 cell: 920-530-5023 e-mail: mramsburg@holstein.com 30â&#x20AC;&#x201C;wisconsin HOLSTEIN news/January 2018

#48 GTPI Genomic Sire