Winter 2020 Alberta Holstein Associaiton Newsletter

ALBERTA

HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION

Winter 2020

agm schedule national convention information curtis clark award club awards breeder of the year nominees

BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

DIRECTORS

DIRECTORS

NATIONAL DIRECTOR- WILLEM VANDERLINDE

SUE CREST (CRHC)

ROLF VAN BENTHEM (SAHC)

JOE FOLKERTS (NAHC)

JOOP GARRETSEN (GAHC)

LEE SIMANTON (CAHC)

TIM HUMMEL (GAHC)

Phone/Fax: 403-782-1516 Email: luckyhill97@gmail.com

PRESIDENT- WILLEM VANDERLINDE

Phone/Fax: 403-782-1516 Email: luckyhill97@gmail.com

VICE PRESIDENT- ANDREW WILDEBOER

Phone: 403-782-9615 Fax: 403-782-9617 Email: chubanna@hotmail.com

Phone: 780-675-4643 Fax: 780-675-9786 Email: screst@mcsnet.ca Phone: 403-505-1604 Email: joeandjanellefolkerts@hotmail.com Phone/Fax: 403-704-6692 Email: lisalee.s@hotmail.com

Phone: 403-896-1313 Email: rolfbenthem@hotmail.com

Phone: 403-315-2150 Email: joop.garretsen@gmail.com Phone: 403-331-8599 Email: tnbhummel@gmail.com CLARENCE SLINGERLAND (GAHC)

PAST PRESIDENT- BOB RECK

Phone: 403-394-8351 Email: slingclar@gmail.com

Phone: 403-382-1062 Fax: 403-345-2880 Email: robert.reck@hiprofeeds.com SECRETARY/TREASURER- BENITA HUMMEL

Phone: 403-335-5916 Fax: 403-732-5183 Email: info@albertaholstein.ca

SOCIAL MEDIA REP- AMANDA HEHLI

Cell: 403-704-5455 Email: amandahehli@hotmail.ca

OFFICE MAILING ADDRESS: BOX 988, PICTURE BUTTE, AB T0K 1V0 Andrew Wildeboer, Joe Folkerts, Amanda Hehli, Rolf Van Benthem, Willem Vanderlinde, Lee Simanton, Benita Hummel, Tim Hummel, Bob Reck Missing: Clarence Slingerland, Joop Garretson, & Sue Crest

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Alberta Holstein Association AGM Feb. 13 Best Western Denham Inn-Leduc Voting Deadline for Holstein Canada Cow of the Year Mar. 6 Western Canadian Dairy Seminar Early bird deadline Feb. 11 Mar. 10-13 Red Deer, AB Cambridge Hotel, Red Deer AB (formerly Sheraton Hotel) Registration Deadline National Holstein Convention Mar. 13

Chilliwack, BC Judge: Brent Walker, ON National Holstein Convention April 15-18 Saskatoon/Regina, SK WCC Aug 25- 29, 2020 Keystone Center, Brandon MB Hotel: Canada Inn Alberta Youth Dairy Show July 21-23 Rimbey Agrim Centre

BC Holstein Spring Show Mar. 20

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EXECUTIVE UPDATES Willem Vanderlinde

PRESIDENT & NATIONAL DIRECTOR REPORT

Holstein Canada is in the process of hiring a new CEO. If you know anyone who’s interested contact myself or Holstein Canada.

At the beginning of this new year I wish everyone an amazing 2020.

The past year, 2019 was a record year for Holstein Canada in registration and classification. The Compass program is up and running, if there are any questions about this program than you can always contact Morgan Sangster our field rep for Western Canada or any of the directors.

I went to visit the Royal in November; it was really exciting to see Wendon Goldwyn Alberta win Best Bred & Owned of the Royal Agriculture Winter Fair 2019. Congratulations to Wendon Holsteins. This is the first time since this award is introduced and won by a cow from Alberta.

Also, congrats to all the other breeders from Alberta who brought animals to the Royal Winter Fair.

Since 1988, the Alberta Branch has presented the Curtis Clark award at the Royal (more info about this at our website). This year the award went to Andrew Vander Meulen, Avonlea Genetics, Brighton ON. Congratulations on joining this outstanding group of award recipients.

Looking forward to seeing and talking to everyone at their AGM’s, starting at January 27 at the Country Roads club and working my way south that week with Green Acres Holstein Association Club on the 31st.

Due to increasing cost-effective April 1 there will be an increase in registration fees. *electronic registration will increase by $2 to $11 *hard copy registration will increase by $3 to $16 *base animals will increase by 50 cents to $4.50 If anyone wants to discuss or has any questions or concerns, please give me a call, send a text or email.

Hope to see all at the events, Willem Vanderlinde 403-302-1527 luckyhill97@gmail.com

February 13 is the Alberta Holstein Association AGM this will be held at the Best Western Denham Inn in Leduc. This is a great event with announcements of the Alberta Breeder of the year and the President’s club cow.

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Media Release HOLSTEIN CANADA, 20 CORPORATE PLACE, BRANTFORD, ONTARIO CANADA N3T 5R4 PHONE | 519-756-8300 | 1-855-756-8300 FAX | 519-756-5878 WEB | WWW.HOLSTEIN.CA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 6, 2020 Contact: Steven Spriensma, Communications Coordinator Phone: 519-756-8300 ext. 234 sspriensma@holstein.ca

Holstein Canada Celebrates a Decade of Success Brantford, Ont. – Holstein Canada closed out a ten-year period of innovation and partnership in record-setting style, celebrating five consecutive years of growth in Registrations and three in Classifications.

Holstein Canada ended the decade with record numbers in both Registrations and Classifications. Producers submitted 316,302 Registrations by end-of-year 2019, 11,159 more than 2018’s record high. The Field team classified 272,976 animals – 1,704 more than in 2018 - and assessed an additional 83,789 animals for proAction® animal care.

These new benchmarks were made possible by the belief of Canadian producers in the value of our core services and the innovative Holstein Canada team. Since 2010, electronic Registrations went from 80% of all Registrations submitted to 95%. The revamp of our website in 2013 made it easier for producers to access and submit information.

“The more information you have on your herd the better management and breeding decisions you can make for future progress,” said Linda Markle, Manager of Herdbook & Genotyping Services. “Registration is a fundamental first step in the information gathering process, and it is why the percentage of registered Holsteins continues to increase in Canada year over year.”

Classification numbers have also increased over the last ten years. The Holstein Canada classifiers examined 17,000 more animals in 2019 than they did in 2010 from all breeds. More than 15,000 of these were Holstein animals.

“We require more from our cow today than in 2010, and the need to build a herd that is sustainable and healthy is more important than ever,” said Brad Eggink, Manager of Classification and Field Services. “Increased Classification numbers is a continued testament to our Canadian dairy producer utilizing their performance data to build a herd that is functionally optimal and suited to their environmental and management needs.”

Diversifying our services was not something we could have done alone. We began the period with the launch of the National Genomic Testing Service in partnership with Semex Alliance. In 2016, Holstein Canada became the service provider for Animal Care Assessments as part of the Dairy Farmers of Canada proAction ALBERTA HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION Newsletter Winter 2020

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Initiative. We ended the decade with the release of Compass, a herd management software designed and implemented with Lactanet and Zoetis. 930 Canadian producers now actively use this free program, with more signing on every week.

Holstein Canada was also pleased to begin collaborations with other breed organizations across the country. On top of in-office support and services, our Association began registering other breeds: Canadienne animals in 2013, Ayrshire in 2014, and Brown Swiss, Guernsey and Milking Shorthorn in 2016.

None of the success we have experienced could have been accomplished without a passionate and dedicated membership base, the dairy producers across Canada, and our industry partners. We look forward to a future of collaboration with the entire dairy industry, providing a healthy and sustainable industry for all.

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Please join us!

ALBERTA HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING February 13, 2020 Best Western Denham Inn (5207 50 Ave) Leduc, Alberta Please book hotel room(s) by January 31, citing this event to receive a special rate of $109/night

Program:

- 10am Annual General Meeting n(registration opens at 9:30am) - Lunch - Tours to Gruger Family Fungi and nRig Hand Distillery - 6:30pm Banquet with musical nentertainment by Tera Lee (dinner at 7)

Tickets:

AGM and lunch $20 Tour $15 Banquet only $60 AGM, lunch, and banquet $75 Please contact Luke Wrubleski to register; payment can be made by etransfer to luke.wrubleski@gmail.com, or cash or cheque at the door. Please register by February 3, 2020. Late registrations will pay a fee of $10.

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Media Release HOLSTEIN CANADA, 20 CORPORATE PLACE, BRANTFORD, ONTARIO CANADA N3T 5R4 PHONE | 519-756-8300 | 1-855-756-8300 FAX | 519-756-5878 WEB | WWW.HOLSTEIN.CA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 7, 2020 Contact: Steven Spriensma, Communications Coordinator Phone: 519-756-8300 ext. 234 sspriensma@holstein.ca

Announcing the 90th Master Breeder Award Winners Brantford, Ont. – The announcement of the Master Breeder recipients has become an annual tradition at Holstein Canada. This tradition is now in its 90th year, and we are pleased to announce the Master Breeders who will be honoured at the National Holstein Convention Master Breeder Gala in Regina, Saskatchewan on Saturday, April 18, 2020.

Of the breeders who received exciting news today, 11 (58%) are first-time recipients of a Shield.

Two breeders are receiving it for the third time. The winners come from five provinces: eight breeders are from Quebec; four are from Ontario and British Columbia each; two are from Prince Edward Island.; and one is from Manitoba.

Congratulations to the 2019 Master Breeder Recipients: Prefix AGGIES AMIGO BOISBLANC CHARPENTIER DARCROFT FAMIPAGE GOLDENFLO HAMMINGVIEW IDEE LARENWOOD LEHOUX LESBERTRAND LESPERRON MAPLEBROUGH MAURICIENNE NICREST SUNNYHOME WILMARLEA WISSELVIEW

Name Hueging Dairies Ltd. Ferme A.M.Y. Martin Inc. Ferme Boisblanc Holstein Inc. Ferme Charpentier Darcroft Farms Ltd. Ferme Famipage Inc. MacBeath Farms Ltd. Hammingview Farms Ltd.

Idee Holsteins Larenwood Farms B. Lehoux & Fils Inc. Georges Bertrand Ferme Lesperron Inc. Maplebrough Holsteins Ferme J.M. Cossette & Fils Inc. Nicole Parkinson Sunnyhome Farms Ltd. Wilmarlea Farm Wisselview Farms

Location Woodlands, Manitoba Saint-Valentin, Quebec Saint-Justin, Quebec Sawyerville, Quebec Embro, Ontario Saint-Louis-de-Gonzague, Quebec

Marshfield, Prince Edward Island Pitt Meadows, British Columbia Hunter River, Prince Edward Island Drumbo, Ontario Saint-Elzéar, Quebec Saint-Polycarpe, Quebec Bury, Quebec Uxbridge, Ontario Saint-Maurice, Quebec Chilliwack, British Columbia Salmon Arm, British Columbia Embro, Ontario Pitt Meadows, British Columbia

Shield #

1 1 1 1 3 1 2 2 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 3 1 1

Contact information for the winning producers is available on the Holstein Canada website. For -Cont’dmore information, contact Steven Spriensma at 519-756-8300 ext. 234 or sspriensma@holstein.ca.

Since its beginning in 1929, the Master Breeder program has become the most coveted Holstein Canada award. Including this year’s winners, 1088 Master Breeder shields have been handed out since 1930 (for the year 1929). We recognize these breeders for having mastered the art of breeding balanced cattle – high production and outstanding conformation with great reproduction, health and longevity. Congratulations to the Master Breeders who joined the ranks of the most elite breeders across Canada in 2019!

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AWARDS REPORT- Lee Simanton

Andrew Vander Meulen of Avonlea Genetics Inc., Brighton, Ontario, has won the Curtis Clark Achievement Award for 2019. His selection was announced on November 8th during the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto, Ont. Vander Meulen is the 33rd recipient of this award which was established by the Alberta Holstein Branch in 1988 to honour the late Curtis Clark of Acme Holsteins, a respected Alberta Holstein breeder, cowman and showman.

Andrew Vander Meulen, 49, has been involved with Jersey cattle all his life. He grew up on his parents’ Peninsula Jersey Farm at Stirling, Ont., where he developed his love and passion for breeding purebred Jerseys while working on the farm and participating in 4-H. Following graduation from Kemptville Agricultural College, he worked for six and a half years for Jersey Canada as Assistant Executive Secretary and Associate Editor of their Canadian Jersey Breeder magazine. During his time with the Association, Vander Meulen cultivated many great relationships with Jersey breeders around the world, while also gaining a great business background.

In 1997, Andrew married Jennifer Livock and they became partners in the operation now known as Avonlea Genetics with Jennifer’s parents, Jim and Liz Livock. Jen’s grandfather and great-uncle, Bill and Jack Featherstone, originally started the Avonlea herd at Oakville, Ont., in 1934. Offspring from three of the original six cows purchased for the farm by the Featherstones are still making an impact at Avonlea. Following a barn fire, the farm moved to Brighton in 2000 where the herd is housed in a bedded pack barn and milked in a herringbone parlour.

While the Avonlea herd has always had a worldwide reputation for breeding quality cattle, Andrew and Jen have worked tirelessly to bring the herd even further to the forefront of the Jersey breed.

Today Andrew and Jen and their children, Taylor, 18, and Will, 16, along with help from Jen’s parents, manage this highly regarded Jersey herd. A two-time Master Breeder winner, Avonlea Genetics was this year’s Breeder of Distinction at the TD Canadian 4-H Dairy Classic.

The Avonlea herd presently consists of 20 Excellent, 33 Very Good and four Good Plus cows. Breeding balanced, productive animals

from deep-pedigreed cow families has always been the goal at Avonlea. Two longtime cow families, the Mischief and Kitty lines, have generated many show winners and high type cattle not only for Avonlea, but other breeders as well. The Mischief family has produced such notables as Avonlea Renaissance Mischief (VG-88-7*). She is the dam of Avonlea Mischief ’s Magnolia-ET (Ex-924E-12*), 2016 Jersey Canada “Cow of the Year”, and the grandam of Musqie Iatola Martha (Ex-97-USA), the three-time Royal Winter Fair Supreme Champion and once World Dairy Expo Supreme Champion. The Kitty line has given rise to such cows as Avonlea Renaissance Kookie-ET (Ex-92-5E-9*), a seven-time All-Canadian nominee in milking form and a two-time All-Canadian winner. Kookie’s granddaughter, Avonlea Premier Chocolate Chip (Ex-95), was All-Canadian and All-American 5-year-old in 2018.

In addition to these homebred families, Avonlea has also invested in some of the best cow families the Jersey breed has to offer around the world. At Avonlea, showing is a family affair with Andrew and his family working sideby-side to present cattle at many shows in Canada and the United States each year. Avonlea has earned over 300 AllCanadian nominations resulting in 55 All-Canadian and 42 Reserve All-Canadian awards. In 2008, Avonlea took grand champion honours at the Royal Winter Fair and World Dairy Expo with Alexvale Made Me Giggle (Ex96-3E-4*). They claimed an earlier Royal grand championship in 1998 with Avonlea MCT Becky (Ex-96-2*).

Taylor and Will Vander Meulen have inherited their parents’ love for showing and have already won numerous awards for their 4-H calves and showmanship talents ensuring many more continued years of showring participation by Avonlea.

The marketing of genetics has always been a vital part of Avonlea’s program. Avonlea has exported embryos to over 30 foreign countries. They sell many animals privately and in public auction sales each year. The bottom line in all of their marketing endeavours is ensuring they have a

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AWARDS REPORT- Lee Simanton “happy customer”. In the last 15 years, Andrew and Jen have expanded their marketing efforts to include a sales management component. The couple has managed some of the highest averaging Jersey sales in North America, including their own successful Summer Splash series. More recently, Avonlea has also boarded and shown cattle for breeders and partners from Canada, the United States, Brazil, Mexico and Australia. Andrew takes great pride in caring for these cattle like they are his own and ensuring that they perform at their best at the shows and are profitable for their owners.

An internationally recognized judge, Andrew has judged national Jersey shows in Canada (Royal Winter Fair), the United States (the All-American and World Dairy Expo), Brazil, Mexico and Colombia, as well as officiating at shows in Australia and countless more across North America. He has served on numerous breed and industry committees. Vander Meulen was the Jersey representative to the committee that developed Canada’s National Livestock Identification (NLID) program.

He was a national director and then Jersey Canada president in 2007. Andrew Vander Meulen is an astute cowman, businessman and enthusiastic Jersey promoter. Articulate and personable, he is considered by all to be one of the “good guys” in the business. Vander Meulen is humbled to have won the Clark award. He says it is truly an honour for him to be recognized by a group who have been his peers and mentors and for whom he has the utmost respect. He is also grateful to the Alberta Holstein Branch for their continued efforts in sponsoring this award. “This type of recognition is important in our industry, and I am glad the Alberta Branch has continued the tradition of this award,” he says.

The Curtis Clark Achievement Award is presented annually at the Royal to the Canadian dairy cattle exhibitor who is respected for his ability, sportsmanship and dedication. Former recipients of the award choose the winner. Andrew Vander Meulen received a gold belt buckle as a personal keepsake of this honour. His name will also be engraved on the distinctive Clark trophy that bears a bronzed version of Curtis Clark’s hat.

For additional information, contact Bonnie Cooper, secretary, Curtis Clark Achievement Award Committee, 904 – 12 Rockford Road, North York, ON M2R 3A2; tel: 416-6638515; cell: 416-579-6572; e-mail: becooper2010@gmail.com.

2018- Don Chalack- Wendon Holsteins, AB 2017- Simon Lalande- Ferme Blondin, QC 2016- Rolland Dubois- Ferme Rollandale, QC 2015- Rob Crest- Skycrest Holsteins, AB 2014- Larry Bennett- ON 2013- Jeff Nurse- Monteith Holsteins, ON 2012- Don Schwartz- Quality Holsteins, ON 2011- Gord Rendle- Stanhope Wedgwood, BC 2010- Mike McGriskin- Kentville Holsteins, ON 2009- Fred Armstrong- Huronia Jerseys, ON 2008- Earl Phoenic- Dappledale Holsteins, ON 2007- John M. Beerwort- Beervern Holsteins, QC 2006- Gerald Coughlin Jr.- Trent Valley Holsteins, QC 2005- Athol Craswell- Crasdale Farms, PEI 2004- Jack Fraser- Fraeland Holsteins, ON 2003- Clifton Berry- North River Farm Jerseys, QC 2002- Stan Coleman- Green Hecares, AB 2001- Ridley Wikkerink- Wedgwood Holsteins, BC 2000- Callum McKinven- Lookout Holsteins, QC 1999- Harold R. Patterson-Valleycrest, ON 1998- Robert F. Flett- Flettdale Holsteins- Oshawa-ON 1997- John Buckley- Salem Holsteins- Lindsay, ON 1996- Marc Comtois- Comestar Holsteins- Victoriaville, QC 1995- Henry “J” Hank Vanderpost- Vanhaven Holsteins, ON 1994- Frank Meisner- Rensiem Holsteins- Woodstock, ON 1993- Robert E. Ness- Terrace Bank Ayrsires- Howick, QC 1992- Allan Barr- Woodland View Farm- Knowlton, QC 1991- Norm Atkins- Continental Holsteins- Leduc, AB 1990- Brian Sayles of Bridon Farms- Paris, ON 1989- James A. Walker- Walkerbrae Farms- Guelph, ON 1988- R.F. Bob Brown- Browndale Farm- Paris, ON

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COUNTRY ROADS HOLSTEIN CLUB AWARDS Arie Moes Memorial Award Recipient- Tate Schmidt

PRODUCTION AWARDS 1st Lact. BCA- De Wildt Daft Punk Anna2 GP-80 1st Lact. Dev.- De Wildt Daft Punk Anna2 GP-80 2nd Lact. BCA- De Wildt Doorman Anna10 VG-85 2nd Lact. Dev.- Unique Babar Dasher VG-88 3rd Lact. BCA- Unique Babar Juliff VG-86 3rd Lact. Dev.-Unique HP Irwin Hocus EX-92

SURREYVIEW- 40 Year Veteran Breeder

Kevin Shenfield

Highest Total BCA- De Wildt Dairy

Forage Competition- Alfalfa Silage 1st- Unique Valleystream Genetics 2nd- Mellowdale Dairy 3rd- Skycrest Holsteins MOST IMPROVED ROLLING HERD AVERAGE Skycrest Holsteins

HJAY- 30 Year Veteran Breeder-Tom Kampjes GROSMAN- 30 Year Veteran Breeder MORALTA-30 Year Veteran Breeder

Breeder of the Year Nominees De Wildt Dairy, Skycrest Holsteins, Enterprises Lavoie

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SOUTHERN ALBERTA HOLSTEIN CLUB AWARDS PRODUCTION AWARDS Yearling- Coburnzijpe Chatter Myrna- Van der Sluijs Dairy

BCA- 1156 2 Yr- Coburnzijpe Hayley Bea- Van der Sluijs Dairy

BCA- 1130 3 Yr- FVC Igor Garlin- Fairville Farming Co.

BCA- 1158 4 Yr- FVC Lysbuck Raelene- Fairville Farming Co.

BCA- 1091 5 Yr- Huntcliff Brett Statice- Huntcliff Dairy

BCA- 1023 Mature Cow- Brummelhuis Ritzy Leah- Happy Cow Dairy

BCA- 1076 HIGHEST PRODUCTION HERD Huntcliff Dairy- BCA- 292 –282 –294

BARN COW COMPETITION 1st Lactation

Wouters Pure Lizzy- Wouters Dairy 2nd Lactation

Huntcliff Megapower Quinn- Huntcliff Dairy 3rd Lactation

Mountain Lady Jett Air 926- Dijkstra Dairy 4+ Lactation

Lakeway Alfredo Anna- Boom Holsteins 100,000 Kg

Huybregts Denison Francie- Jansen Holsteins Grand Champion:

Huntcliff Megapower Quinn (Huntcliff Dairy)

Highest Milk Value Fairville Farming Co. - 8448 $ MOST IMPROVED HERD AVG Innislake Dairy Farm- +26 TOP HERD LOWEST SCC Fairville Farming Co.- 87,000

Reserve Champion:

Mountain Lady Jett Air 926 (Dijkstra Dairy)

HIGHEST HERD MANAGEMENT SCORE Fairville Farming Co. HERD OF DISTINCTION Boom Holsteins- 35,707 Milk Avg.

Honourable Mention:

Wouters Pure Lizzy (Wouters Dairy)

BREEDER OF THE YEAR Innislake Dairy Farm

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CENTRAL ALBERTA HOLSTEIN CLUB AWARDS

NORTHERN ALBERTA HOLSTEIN CLUB AWARDS

PRODUCTION AWARDS Yearling- Marsfield 1st Class Joy- Mars Dairy

663 F, 475 P, 13925 M 2 Yr- Chubanna Anaheim Louisiana- Chubanna Holsteins

774F, 474P, 13277 M 3 Yr- Morsan Supersire Banana- Lucky Hill Dairy

937 F, 510P, 15108M 4 Yr- Lucky Balti Red Leanne- Lucky Hill Dairy

1079F, 701P, 21019M 5 Yr- Royal Hill Iota Talena- Cawithca Dairy

971F, 664P, 22478M Mature Cow- Chubanna Atwood Coral- Chubanna Holsteins

992F, 562P, 14817M

Breeder of the Year Hofstra Farms

HIGHEST PRODUCTION HERD Cawithca Dairy- BCA- 318-357-323 MOST IMPROVED HERD AVG Cawithca Dairy- +46 TOP HERD LOWEST SCC Earwald Holsteins- 87,000

GREEN ACRES HOLSTEIN CLUB AWARDS Breeder of the Year van der Kooij Dairy

HIGHEST HERD MANAGEMENT SCORE Richards Farms BREEDER OF THE YEAR Thornspyc Dairy

BARN COW COMPETITION B&W 1st Lactation

Marsfield Goldchip Jane- Mars Dairy B&W 2nd Lactation

Thornspyc McDougal Northstar- Thornspyc Dairy B&W 3rd Lactation & GRAND CHAMPION

Chubanna Braxton Piper- Chubanna Holsteins B&W 4+ Lactation

Simmelinks Stanleycup June- Simmelinks Dairy R&W 1st & 2nd Lactation

Chubanna Addiction Daeja- Chubanna Holsteins

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BREEDER OF THE YEAR- Country Roads Holstein Club- Skycrest Holsteins Skycrest is a 5th generation family farm. Started shipping cream in 1973 and in 1975 bought quota and grade holsteins. We started registering cattle to the Skycrest prefix in1982. In 2004 we added on to the existing barn and converted the old free stall/palour to a tie stall. In 2017 we bought out Rob’s parent share in the farm.

Today the operation is mainly run by Rob, Sue, Chad, Katelyn and 1 full time staff-Malcolm Smith (12 years), as well as Rob’s dad,J ohn-semi-retired!

Most Influential cows in herdSkycrest Hlight Cinder Sasha EX 92 5E 6* Skycrest Juror Piper EX 91 3E 7* Skycrest Blitz Nock Out EX 92 4E 4* Show Accomplishments-Highlights2nd Breeders herd at BC Spring Show 1st Breeders Herd at Alberta Dairy Congress Hon Mention All Western Breeders Herd 2019 *Reserve Grand Champion *Hon Mention Grand Champion *Reserve Intermediate Champion *HM Intermediate Champion @ Alberta Dairy Congress Show! *Bred Skycrest Mincio Prickles-5th 5 Yr Old World Dairy Expo & 3rd Royal Winter Fair, she is now scored 95pts and owned by Oakfield Corners!

Breed InvolvementSue is Director on Alberta Holstein Branch, Chair of the Youth Committee, Committee Member on the Alberta Dairy Congress Show & Sale, Committee Member on Alberta WCC as well as the

Inter-Provincials WCC Committee.

Chad is President of Country Roads Holstein Club.

Katelyn is a coach & volunteer for the Alberta WCC team.

-Sue was awarded the “Modern Farm Women of the Year” from the County of Athabasca -We’ve recieved the Award of Excellence Quality Milk from Alberta Milk.

-Ranked 5th in Canada for Top Classifying herd in our group 4059 (Holstein Info July/Aug) -Recieved the Most Improved BCA at the CRHC awards night 2019.

Community InvolvementSkycrest opened their farm for tours to the National Jesery Convention which was held in February. Chad judged the Okanagan Spring Show in BC in April. Chad also was one of the 5 representative from Alberta who attended the Young Leaders Conference in PEI . Skycrest also hosted a showmanship/Judging workshop for the local dairy club in May. In June Skycrest participated in the judging school at Alberta Dairy Congress by providing animals as well as Chad took part in judging. October Skycrest provided animals for the Tier 2 judging school held at the Red Deer Westerner Show. In November Chad also was the Northern Alberta Holstein Club Barn Cow judge.

We are a huge supporter of the youth programs and therefore sponsor Athabsca 4H Beef Club, Moos on the Moove 4H Dairy Club, Alberta Youth Dairy Show and Western Canadian Classic.

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BREEDER OF THE YEAR- Northern Alberta Holstein Club- Hofstra Farms

We purchased our farm and started dairying in 1978, Arjan and Heidi joined us in 2003.

Herd Classification: 10 ME, 8 E, 65 VG, 42 GP, 1G RHA: 127 cows- BCA- 244-271-245

Our most influential cow family is:

Tim: Chairman Agrifoods International Cooperative, Executive Director Westgen, Board Member Bow Valley Genetics, Executive Director Wetaskiwin Coop, Board of Directors Edmonton Regional Airport Authority

DETIMDALE BROKER DARBIE VG-85-10YR-CAN 14*(24/46) Currently we are still milking two of her daughters: -DETIMDALE DELEWARE HOCANF9878810 EX-93-5E-CAN 2*(10/0) Currently on the flush program for our farm, will be bred back shortly -DETIMDALE INTEGRITY DRAMA VG-87-9YR-CAN Due March 2020 with her 9th calf Detimdale Broker Darbie has over 60 descendants at our farm; most leaving a mark in our herd.

We participated at the following shows Alberta Dairy Congress, Northern Alberta Dairy Show, Rollyview 4-H Dairy Club Achievement day, Provincial Youth Show (4-H), Western Canadian Classic We showed mostly heifers this year and our animals did well enough at these shows with our jersey calf and young heifers achieving some prizes. Detimdale Delaware was first mature cow at the Northern Alberta Dairy show.

We have received the Alberta Milk Quality Milk award for the last 13/15 years. We believe in producing quality milk and recognize how important the Pro-Action Program is for proving to consumers we care about our animals and the milk that they produce.

Debbie: Board Member Chamber of Commerce Leduc and Wetaskiwin Region, Chair for Agriculture Committee Chamber of Commerce Leduc and Wetaskiwin Region, Announcer at Alberta Dairy Congress, NAHC Holstein Show Arjan: President Northern Alberta Holstein Club; Board Member Cloverlawn Community Center Heidi: Leader of Rollyview 4-H Dairy Club; works full time as unit manager at Grey Nuns Hospital in women’s health.

We are an active family in the industry and community; sometimes it is a balancing act for us all to be able to keep up with all the aspects for dairying, haying, cropping and still find time for family time. Every year we spend an extended weekend with our whole family camping and fishing. We also attend Big Valley Jamboree Classification is one of the most valuable services of Holstein Canada. We all look forward the classification day, with everyone in attendance including the grandchildren and staff. Classification is one of the best indicators on if your breeding program is working in your herd.

We are currently in the process of genomic testing all of our holsteins; either with Holstein Canada or Semex Elevate. Receiving the results is always interesting when measured against our classification and milk records, there are always some surprises.

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BREEDER OF THE YEAR- Central Alberta Holstein Club- Thornspyc Dairy

Thornspyc Dairy Ltd. was established by Wim and Hennie van de Brake in 1996. They started with 45 grade cows in a tie stall barn in Neerlandia. In 2007 the Thornspyc herd was relocated to Lacombe and expanded to 140 head adding 70 purchased Hanmon Holstein cows. Both of their sons have become part of the farm with Jan and Monica managing the Thornspyc herd. William manages a new herd which was purchased in December of 2018; it is home to the first calves with the Thornalta prefix. Both locations milk just over 140 purebred cows and the field and custom work is done together.

Wim and Hennie are still fully involved at both farms and finalize all major decisions.

The van de Brake family is involved in many organizations. Wim was the Alberta rep for CanWest DHI and was involved in the partnering to create Lactanet. He is past president of Alberta Holstein and is currently a delegate for Alberta Milk. Hennie is a 4-H leader and sits on the local school board. She is also one of the founders and a committee member of the Youth Dairy Show. Jan is Vice-President of the Central Alberta Holstein Club and is the clerk and a deacon in their church. Jan and Monica were honoured to represent AHA in 2019 as young leaders at convention in PEI. Kristy is Vice-President of her local 4-H club and treasurer of the Lacombe 4-H district.

Our favourite cow families are the Nannys and the Lucindas. The Nanny family has produced solid conformation cows with great production. The original Thornspyc Bolton Nanny, EX90-2E 2* has 4 consecutive superior lactations (Super 4). Her daughter Lauthority Nikita EX92-2E has 2 superior lactations and was the 2nd 5 year old in 2018 and 2nd mature cow in 2019 at the Green Acres Holstein Show. The Lucinda’s are a well uddered and stylish family. Our favourite Thornspyc Socrates Lucinda, EX90-3E 1* made 60.000 Litres. Her daughter Beemer Lucinda VG-88 was 1st Sr. 3 year old and Grand Champion Green Acres 2019. Her latest daughter is a prospect for the upcoming show season. Another special family is the

offspring of Jan’s 4-H calf Cheralta Toby Tamara VG-87 maternal line to numerous show animals. Her granddaughter Thornspyc Airlift Tatjana EX91 has a Super 3 and was Grand in 2018 and 1st 5yr old in 2019 Green Acres and 3rd 5yr old Alberta Dairy Congress 2019. Another granddaughter: Thornspyc Doc Trisha was 1st Senior Calf and Honourable Mention Junior Champion Green Acres 2019.

This was a record breaking year for Thornspyc as they maxed out at 1.99 Kgs of fat/head/day and were able to hold 1.9 services per conception. Their Rolling Herd Average is 13,224kgs Milk, 535 kgs Fat, 408 kgs Protein. Their BCA: 293 319 284 = 896. The Current herd consists of 8EX, 59VG, 116GP, & 16G making it 91.96% GP or better.

After an interesting trip to the BC spring show they attended the Green Acres Holstein Show coming home with Grand and Honourable mention in both the Junior and Senior shows.

In early summer Kristy won Grand Overall Showman at Alberta Dairy Congress. The year ended with their 2 superior lactation Thornspyc McDougal Northstar VG-88 winning the second lactation black and white class of the CAHC Barn Cow Competition, a competition they’ve really come to appreciate.

Thornspyc Dairy proudly uses Holstein Canada and Alberta Holstein Association services. Registration, Classification and Milk Recording are highly regarded but this year they also added genomic testing to the list. The farm commends Alberta Holstein for their support of youth programs and shows and appreciated the opportunity to use the new travel grant after BC Spring Show.

The van de Brake Family at Thornspyc Dairy is honoured to represent the Central Alberta Holstein Club as their Alberta Holstein Breeder of the Year nominee.

ALBERTA HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION Newsletter Winter 2020

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BREEDER OF THE YEAR- Southern Alberta Holstein Club- Innislake Dairy We began in either 1968 or 1969, and involved in today’s operations are John, Eric, Abbey, Luke and Lars Iversen The most influential cow families are the Anna’s, Karin’s, Colleen’s, Cristal’s.

We had 7 New VG 2yr old’s, 9 new EX/ME, 3 Star Brood Cows, 6 Superior Production, 1 60,000 kg, 1 100,000 kg award.

Eric is President of Westgen and also sits on the Olds Regional Exhibition board.

When we began dairying our prefix was “Sereni”, which was a variation of our last name.

The Holstein Canada service we find most important is registration and clarification as far as Alberta Holstein breeder support.

Rolling Herd Average, Milk 260, Fat 289 and Protein 264.

BCA: 247- 273-246.

John sits on the Calgary Stampede Dairy Committee, as well as the Olds Golf Club board of directors. John is a past National Director for Holstein Canada, past President of Holstein Canada, and past President of our local club.

ALBERTA HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION Newsletter Winter 2020

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BREEDER OF THE YEAR- Green Acres Holstein Club- Van der Kooij Dairy

We are very excited about being named the Green Acres Holstein Club breeder of the year. It is also an honour to represent the club at the provincial level. VAN DER KOOIJ DAIRY was established in 1996 when our parents Dirk and Henderika took a big leap of faith and immigrated to southern Alberta and left family and friends behind in the Netherlands. The Decoy prefix was established and through AI, the herds genetics started to progress.

Dirk is on the GAHC board for a number of years and currently serves as Treasurer. Dad is also on the Lethbridge North County Potable Water Coop board and also currently serves as an Elder in the Nobleford Christian Reformed Church.

We love getting the Alberta Holstein Association Newsletter in the mail to see what`s going on farms within Alberta, and checking out show results within the province. Holstein Canada provides valuable services with genotyping, classification registration and publishing information on the website. We are looking forward to growing our cow families and showing more cows at possibly more shows in the future.

Currently involved in the dairy are Dirk and Henderika and their son Bas who`s better half is Stacy van der Kooij. They have 2 children, Roman (2) and Adalyn (1). Together we milk 130 cows, twice a day through a double 8 parallel De Laval milking parlor.

Our rolling herd BCA M274 F303 P276 Total 853 (Oct 9, 2019).

The herd classification is currently 4ME 4EX 45VG 87GP 17G. Most of our homebred excellent cows have come in the last 2 years, which is very exciting to see. There were 2 starbrood cows in 2019.

We have a couple great cow families emerging from the homebred herd, with the main one being the Twilight family.

Decoy Buckeye Twilight VG87 3* had 4 daughters in the herd including Decoy StanleyCup Delight EX91. There are now close to 20 offspring from this cow and they are all very silky, long necked dairy cows with an open rib, great udders and good components.

Lately we have also been doing more embryo transfer work, to expand some of these cow families a little bit faster.

Some of the highlights for Decoy Holsteins in 2019 VG 2yr Decoy Bradnick Kangal VG 85 Decoy Bradnick Sockabrocka VG 85 Decoy Dempsey Stroll VG 85 Decoy Goldchip Greatness VG 85 Decoy Lightmyfire Gasolina VG 85 Decoy Meridian MaryVG 85 EX First Decoy Doorman Brightlight EX 90 Decoy Ember Forever EX 91 Decoy Krusader Royce EX 90 Decoy Stanleycup Delight EX 91 Multiple EX Decoy Baltimor Brass EX 90 2E Decoy Lopportunist Marie EX 90 2E Decoy Meridian Django EX 92 2E Decoy Steady Flash EX 90 2E Homebred Production 35 Superior Production Awards Longtime 60000-7 80000-3 100000-2 140000- Decoy Champion Granada Super 3- 3 Super 5 cow Decoy Steady Flash EX90 Show Results Decoy Army Pjeuno- 1st Jr. Calf Green Acres Decoy Meridian Django- 1st Mature Cow & Reserve Grand Champion Green Acres 2019

ALBERTA HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION Newsletter Winter 2020

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YOUTH REPORT- Sue Crest This year at the 2020 National Holstein Convention in Saskatchewan,the Alberta Holstein Branch will be sponsoring Dustin Grisnich to represent Alberta at the Young Leaders conference held April April 15-18.

Moos on the Moove 4-H Report

Mark your calendar for the 3rd Annual Alberta Youth Dairy Show held in Rimbey , July 21-23, 2020. Planning committee is in the works of organizing this year show with judges TBA once confirmed.

We started the new 4H season with a meeting at Bikker’s on November 23. The group member positions were nominated. Rolynn Bikker aspresident, Kalynn Grosman as Vice President, Gelsey Bikker is treasurer,Berenda Helmus is secretary, Samuel Grosman, and Peyton Grosman is theclub reporters. Kinsley, Hannah, Naomi, and Renata arehistorians/scrapbook committee. The Moo’s on the Moove club consistsof 14 members.

Western Canadian Classic will be held Aug 25- 29, 2020 in Brandon, MB at the Keystone Center (Hotel: Canada Inn)

Rollyview 4-H Report Hi. My name is Alice Keuper and I’m the new club reporter for the Rollyview 4-H Dairy Club. Our club has 13 members and 6 cleaver members. We started our year with swimming at the Wetaskiwin pool at the end of October. In November we had our first meeting at the Keuper dairy farm in Falun. We had a farm tour and we looked at all their Jersey cows. Then in December we had our second meeting at Rietveld dairy in Fort Saskatchewan. We also practiced judging and judged two classes of their Holstein cows. Afterwards we went skating. Our next meeting is on January 18th , when we will learn more about public speaking. Our club has public speaking on February 1st at the Millet Agriplex. We’re off to a great start!

Udderly Unique 4-H Report Udderly Unique Dairy club has had an eventful start to the 2019/2020 4-H year. Our first meeting was in the middle of October where we established club positions. At the beginning of December, we had a multispecies judging competition at Horse in Hand Ranch just outside of Blackfalds. It was very educational and we judged dogs, hroses, sheep, hay, beef and dairy heifers, seed identification and 2 consumer decision maker classes. Our most recent meeting at the beginning of January included a ringworm presentation by Gordon Atkins where we learned how to identify ringworm, how to treat it and how to prevent it. It was very interesting and informational.

We also had a chinese gift exchange as well that day. Our next big event will be Public Speaking at Lincoln Hall on February 8th.

At the first meeting, we learned how to measure a calf. On December 3 and 7, at Sobeys, in Westlock, we once again sold Christmas trees to help raise money for 3 charities. For our Christmas gathering, we went to Edmonton as a group to play Laser Tag at Laser Quest.

The club members were joined by family and friends at the laser tag and a total of 30 people were able to play. After the game, we all had lunch and fellowship. The next event for the club will be on January 18 where we will do some judging. We are so excited to have another great year of 4-H.

Green Acres 4-H Report

On behalf of the Green Acres dairy 4H club, we would like to send a huge thank you to Saputo for their generous grant of one thousand dollars. Our club received one of the ten grants and the only one in western Canada. We appreciate their generosity.

We would also like to thank Dr. Steve Hendrick, a local veterinarian, for giving a topic on Proaction and animal welfare during the past meeting on January 18. In the topic he explained that we must give animals more than just the basic needs. In exchange for their milk, meat or eggs we need to make sure that they are properly protected from the environment, minimize pain, suffering, injury and sickness.

He then went on to say that the animals we own or take care of, have five basic rights. These are the freedom to be free from hunger and thirst, discomfort, pain, fear and distress. Animals must also have the freedom to express normal behavior. The Proaction program for dairy farms focuses on milk quality, food safety, biosecurity, environment, traceability and animal care. It also creates a checklist for farmers. Things that the farmers must check are if the cows are comfortable, fed enough, happy and many others. Dr. Hendricks then said that he believed Proaction makes our industry stronger. He concluded with the words of W. D. Hoard : ‘The rule to observe in this stable at all times, toward cattle, young and old, is that of patience and kindness. A man’s usefulness in a herd ceases at once when he loses his temper and bestows rough usage. Men must be patient. Cattle are not reasonable beings. Remember that this is the home of mothers.

Treat each cow as a mother should be treated. The giving of milk is a function of motherhood; rough treatment lessens the flow. That injures me as well as the cow. Always keep these things in mind in dealing with my cattle’ Thank you!

Jay Oudshoorn,

ALBERTA HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION Newsletter Winter 2020

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SHOW REPORT- Joe Folkerts Top 5 results from the Tier II judging school at Westerner Dairy Showcase 1. Ian Crosbie 2. Jason Rietveld 3. Dale Bienert 4. Lee Simanton 5. Markus Hehli Congratulations to Wendon Holsteins with Wendon Goldwyn Alberta on winning Best Bred & Owned Champion at the Royal Winter Fair!

ADVERTISING REPORT- TIm Hummel We recieved our new tote bags in time to have them available at the booth at the Alberta Milk Conference, they went over well and will continue to be available at events!

If you have photos of show or club events please forward them to Amanda Hehli (amandahehli@hotmail.ca) so we can add them to the video presentation that accompanies the booth. What a great way to showcase the events happening in your club.

Our partnership with Farmstead Ag Swag has come to an end, so the online store is no longer up and running. Talk to Wendy Weir if you are interested in remaining items.

2020 advertising opportunities: Newsetter 4X/year- business card size ad- $50/issue or $200/year Calendar Breeder full page ad- $750 Calendar Industry 3� x 1� ad- $250 Website (Link & front page logo ad space)- $15/month or $150/year Social Media (Facebook shares)- $10/month or $100/year Book your calendar space early to secure a spot!

FIELD SERVICES REPORT- Andrew Wildeboer Holstein Canada will continue with proAction animal care assessments.

More info and resources including scheduling & requirements can be found on the Holstein Canada or Alberta Milk websites. Questions about proAction can be directed towards Morgan Hobin at Alberta Milk.

Field Service Representative Morgan Sangster Email: msangster@holstein.ca Cell: 519-865-4367

Morgan Hobin Email: mhobin@albertamilk.com Ph: (780) 577-3318

Andrew Wildeboer Phone: 403-782-9615 Email: chubanna@hotmail.com

ALBERTA HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION Newsletter Winter 2020

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Media Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date: November 14, 2019

Holstein Canada and Lactanet Announce Compass Brantford, ON, Guelph, ON, and Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC – Holstein Canada and Lactanet are excited to announce the launch of Compass, a free online software that helps Canadian producers make profitable decisions in an industry constantly in flux. Developed in collaboration with Zoetis, Compass is an advancement in herd management, with current and projected genetic information freely available to all Canadian dairy farmers.

Compass is a unique, unbiased strategy tool that uses individual herd information to apply specific breeding strategies and goals to a herd. Producers can make the best on-farm breeding choices with the most up-to-date genetic information, customize and apply criteria specific to their herd, and make plans with their herd’s expected growth in mind. This helps them achieve an optimal return on their genetic investment and make their operations more profitable.

Compass offers a clear window into a herd’s past, present, and future. Once created, a personalized Compass account will highlight specific elements that are relevant to daily or weekly decision-making.

The software will also provide the most accurate genetic evaluations for all females in the herd as new performance data is accumulated via milk recording and type classification. Producers can have a comprehensive view of all of their data through the five different modules of Compass: Past Breeding Success

1.



History of breeder prefix strengths and weaknesses, as well as your herd’s national ranking.

Herd Genetics

2.



Producers can upload their herd inventory to create custom charts, groups, and assessments of their herd’s performance.

National Indexes

3.



4.

Strategy and Profitability 

5.

This section allows producers to select which genetic index works best for them (LPI or Pro$) and identify five key traits important to their herd.

Producers can customize their breeding strategy to maximize their herd profitability while illustrating the return on their genetic investment.

Bull List 

Filterable lists of bulls divided by proven, genomic or MACE as to the specific preferred index as well as up to five selected traits. They are filterable by AI Controller and Haplotypes/Recessives, making listing bulls for their strategy very easy.

Information on how to use the software is available in the Help section of Compass. Personnel from both organizations will provide customer service and support for producers using the software. To start navigating your own herd’s genetics, please visit www.compasscan.ca.

Contact: Brad Eggink Manager, Classification Services Holstein Canada beggink@holstein.ca

Brian Van Doormaal Chief Services Officer (bilingual) Lactanet Canada bvandoormaal@lactanet.ca

(519) 756-8300 ext. 265

(519) 767-9660 ext. 101

20 Corporate Place Brantford, Ontario N3T 5R4

660 Speedvale Avenue West, Suite 101 Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1K 1E5

ALBERTA HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION Newsletter Winter 2020

Holstein Canada’s mission is to deliver progressive services and programs for dairy herd

20

SELECT SIRES GENERVATIONS INC. PO BOX 489 Kemptville, Ont K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-258-3800 Fax: 613-258-7257 selectsiresgenervations.com

ALBERTA HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION Newsletter Winter 2020

21

-BY-

UNLEASH YOUR HERD’S POTENTIAL, ASK YOUR CARGILL ADVISOR.

Complete Herd Management Solutions 1-800-549-4373

lactanet.ca

ANDRIES STEEGSTRA

Office: 403-782-3171 Cell: 403-391-6260 asteegstra@royallepage.ca www.centralalbertafarms.com 5820A Highway 2A, Lacombe, AB, T4L 2G5

erin rey

lars iversen

john muller

central alberta

central alberta

south alberta

403.704.0243

403.597.1148

403.394.8530

bryan cruickshank north alberta

780.233.4084 PROULDY CANADIAN

1.800.563.5603

www.westgen.com

BREEDING BULLS AVAILABLE 780-689-9576 780-675-4643

ALBERTA HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION Newsletter Winter 2020

Photo: Kiki Ernst

“Our mission is working to provide opportunities for members to enhance profitibility and competetiveness through genetic improvement programs delivered effectively and efficiently.�

www.albertaholstein.ca

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