2024 Spring Advantage Newsletter

SPRING 2024

WHAT’S INSIDE 25 YEARS OF HISTORY

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Take a look back at the history of the VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE).

HEREFORD HIGHLIGHT

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OUR WHY?

JNHE UPDATES

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A brief overview of updates to the 2024 JNHE, including rules and contest changes.

GROWING A LASTING LEGACY Thank you C&L Hereford Ranch and the Folkman family, for your years of support to the JNHE.

GIVING BACK AT THE STATE LEVEL The state leadership and education grants success and future growth.

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EXPLORING YOUR OPTIONS Testimonies from the Bridging the Gap program at the JNHE.

The motivation for being a servant leader and how to give back in your own way.

DON’T LET THE RINGWRAP FADE A highlight of the sponsors and fundraising campaigns that make these events possible.

HONORING TRADITION

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MORE THAN THE TITLE A highlight of the JNHE title sponsor, BioZyme and VitaFerm®.

The past 6 months of Hereford Highlights.

The showmanship award made possible by Grimmel-Schaake Cattle Co.

DATES & DEADLINES

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Stay up to date with all things happening this spring through the summer with the NJHA.

SCHEDULE RULES & REGS A look at the 2024 JNHE Schedule as well as the expected rules and regulations.

The historic maroon jacket is highlighted on the special edition of the Advantage newsletter, highlighting the 25th VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo.

by Lauren Jones NJHA COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR

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istory offers great perspective. It allows us to look back and learn, marvel at how things have changed and/or compare things that have stayed the same.

Consider the upcoming 25th annual Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE), sponsored by VitaFerm® since 2007. It is the pinnacle summer event for more than 900 National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) members from across the United States and Canada, as they come together for a week of family fun, competition and celebration.

However, the junior nationals and the organizations behind them looked quite different 25 years ago before the National Junior Polled Hereford Council (NJPHC) and the American Junior Hereford Association (AJHA) merged to become the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) and host the first JNHE in 2000.

The American Polled Hereford Association (APHA) and the American Hereford Association (AHA) merged in 1995. The years of 1995-2000 marked a time of connection, change and growth for the Hereford breed. It was in those transition years that the foundation for the newly branded JNHE was created.

To gain a first-hand perspective of how the current JNHE came to be, we talked to three long-time Hereford leaders, breeders and supporters who helped shape the organization in the early days: Bill Doig, NJPHC director, 1998-2000; Craig Crutcher, AJHA president, 1999; and Chris Stephens, past American Hereford Association (AHA) director of youth activities, chairman of the NJPHC board in 1995 and chairman of the first youth merger committee.

COMING TOGETHER

25 YEARS OF HISTORY

wore a red jacket.

That is how we evolved to having the current board members wearing a maroon jacket.”

25 YEARS OF GROWTH “At the end of the merger meeting, both boards walked out of that room with our heads held high and we had an optimism for the future. However, I don’t think any of us could have imagined what this event has turned into now.”

The very first JNHE was held in Tulsa, Okla., at the Tulsa State Fairgrounds. Oklahoma was the first state to merge its adult and junior associations, so it was appropriate to host the first joint event in Oklahoma.

Stephens said “Mr. Bob Call was (the Oklahoma) JNHE chairman. The way that Bob structured the committees, delegated, empowered and communicated was a well-oiled machine. A template that was permanently etched in my memory for years to come as I became AHA director of youth activities and with the reorganization of the Hereford Youth Foundation of America (HYFA).”

When the adult polled and horned associations merged in 1995, discussions began about merging the junior associations, programs and the national junior shows.

Crutcher says a joint event was very important, explaining, “We felt like this could be one of the first big steps that could be made to join the junior associations.”

“The two junior associations had to really look deep into both associations’ programs to decide what made each association great and how best to bring forward those really strong programs to form the new National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA),” Stephens says.

“The National Junior Polled Hereford Council and the American Junior Hereford Association had excellent programs in place for their respective associations, so we started with leadership and competition and how both junior organizations worked in terms of leadership and elections.”

MY “We worked through every detail including what [LAUREN’S] the joint board would wear,” Doig explains. “The polled board wore a blue jacket and the horned board HISTORY

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THE ADVANTAGE

The first show brought together almost 1,000 entries with 589 owned heifers and 372 cow-calf pairs, bulls, steers and bred-and-owned females, being showcased by close to 500 junior exhibitors.

Last year’s JNHE in Madison, Wis., welcomed more than 800 members exhibiting 770 owned females, 227 bred-and-owned females, 37 cow calf pairs, 72 bred-andowned bulls and 108 steers — 26% more cattle than the first joint event. In 2016 the JNHE hit an all time high, with well over 900 exhibitors and 1,500 entries through the ring.

Over the past 25 years, the JNHE has grown to be the largest single-breed show in the nation, but grew from humble beginnings.

“The size of the show has changed by leaps and bounds,” Crutcher says. He attended his first All American Junior Hereford Expo in 1987 and remembers the shows used to be held at ranches or county fairgrounds.

Recalling the 1999 event at the Dawes County Fairgrounds in Chadron, Neb., Crutcher says, “It may not be big enough to host some of today’s state preview shows.”

Not only has the JNHE event grown over the last quarter century, but the NJHA and HYFA have grown with it.

“The amazing growth of HYFA, combined with the growth and organizational structure of the JNHE, are the two biggest changes that have progressed our junior organization and set the JNHE on sound footing for years to come,” Stephens explains. “The re-birth of HYFA and the realignment in the organizational structure of the JNHE was the goal of many avid junior supporters.”

HEREFORD FAMILY AND A DEDICATION TO GREATNESS Both Stephens and Crutcher agree the scholarship programs for NJHA members have grown 10-fold through the years due to the tremendous support of Hereford breeders and AHA leadership.

Although the JNHE has changed and grown, there are a few things that have remained constant over the past quarter century. This includes breeder dedication, a continued drive for success and a family atmosphere.

The JNHE has always been the pinnacle event of the summer. Stephens describes it as “the front porch of the NJHA” and the “flagship event that brings in the families and junior members.”

“The quality of the cattle at the JNHE has improved so much over the past 25 years,” Doig says. “Many of the top genetics used to be only owned and exhibited by large ranches. Now, we see juniors breed and exhibit cattle that win at the JNHE and many other national shows.”

This family atmosphere has crossed generations, as exhibitors from the very first JNHE now have children in the program.

“From exhibiting as a junior, to being on the national junior board, to now having my children participating at the junior nationals, there have been so many memories that will last a lifetime,” Doig says. “The JNHE is so much more than a cow show. The people you meet along the way and the skills you learn will stick with you for your lifetime.”

As we look toward the next 25 years, the future is very bright.

“The ability to streamline the event from year to year, the ability to have the foundation serve as a vehicle for funding scholarships, education and research; it’s a very formidable partnership. It took a lot of great Hereford breeders and AHA leadership working together to get to where we are today. It was not easy; it didn’t happen overnight, and we have more goals to achieve,” Stephen says.

As an older junior member and a current member of the NJHA board of directors, I cherish the time I’ve spent at the JNHE over the years and feel a personal drive to continue to build both the JNHE event and the junior organization so I can see future generations excel.

The future is bright and here’s to the next 25 years. I can’t wait to see where we are for the 50th!

NJHA Membership The NJHA Membership Update, Breakfast and New Board Election will now be held on Wednesday, July 10, at 7 a.m.

The Bred-and-Owned Show and Steer Show will begin at 9 a.m. in Five Points Bank Arena.

cattle Rules All steers are required to be parent verified to both sire and dam, with DNA from the steer, sire and dam all on file at the American Hereford Association.

State Grant

showmanship 5K Race

Funds raised from the HYFA Grand Drive to 25 5K Race, Cornhole for a Cause and the Grand Drive to 25 online sale, will all go to supporting the State Leadership and Education Grants.

Thanks to the generosity of Grimmel-Schaake Cattle Company, a new perpetual trophy will be unveiled for the champion senior Showmanship winner.

The HYFA Grand Drive to 25 5K Race will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 7, providing less overlap between the race and the Grand Daddy of ‘Em All Food & Fun Night and Cornhole for a Cause.

Contest Changes • •

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THE ADVANTAGE

Hereford Bowl reserves the right to include interactive questions during the test.

Advanced Speech (all divisions) and Illustrated Speech (all divisions) will no longer require a virtual portion of the contest. Preregistration is still required.

Individual Sales is ONLY a junior divison contest, there will be no peewee divison offered.

GROWING

by Isaac Rhode NJHA DIRECTOR

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or more than five decades, the rolling hills of northwest Wisconsin have been home to the Folkman family and their C&L Hereford Ranch. Their operation is a testament to dedication, passion and the enduring legacy of Hereford cattle. Steve Folkman, alongside his wife Jill, has nurtured not only a thriving cattle operation, but also a profound commitment to supporting youth programs within the industry. Their story is one of hard work, community and a deep-rooted love for the land and its animals.

The journey began when Steve’s father established the farm. With a keen interest in hunting, he found himself drawn to Hereford cattle through a fellow hunting companion who raised them. This chance encounter sparked the beginning of a lifelong passion.

Acquiring land in Ixonia, Wis., Steve’s father embarked on a journey into the world of Hereford cattle, mingling herd bulls and steadily expanding the operation.

Over the years, the Folkman family’s dedication to their Hereford herd grew alongside the farm itself.

Despite facing challenges the family persevered, ultimately cultivating an elite registered Hereford operation spread across 2,000 acres. Steve’s involvement in the industry deepened, leading to collaborations with fellow breeders and a focus on enhancing carcass merit through strategic genetic selection.

As the farm flourished, so did the involvement of the Folkman family in junior programs, particularly the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) and the VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE).

Although Steve himself aged out before having the chance to participate at a JNHE, his children became deeply involved. Their experiences at JNHE not only enriched their lives but also shaped their character and development, reinforcing Steve and Jill’s belief in the

A LASTING LEGACY

importance of supporting such programs.

In 2005, when the opportunity arose to host the JNHE with the Wisconsin Junior Hereford Association, Steve and Jill saw it as a chance to give back to the community that had given them so much. Despite the significant financial undertaking, the couple spearheaded fundraising efforts, rallying support from breeders nationwide. Their dedication paid off, resulting in a successful event that paved the way to impact those coming after it. The “Great Hereford Drive ’05,” in Milwaukee, Wis., was a turning point for the large event, with the planning committee gifting $20,000 to the Hereford Youth Foundation of America (HYFA) to benefit future events. This gift was then added into the Growing a Lasting Legacy Campaign, starting in 2013, to ensure the sustainability of future JNHE’s.

For Steve and Jill Folkman, the decision to donate a sale lot in the 2024 Hereford Night in OKC National Hereford Sale —with proceeds going to HYFA, the Wisconsin Queen Fund and the Growing a Lasting Legacy Campaign — was deeply personal. It reflected their pride in their daughter’s involvement in the Hereford queen program and a desire to support the next generation of young cattle enthusiasts. The impact of their donation reverberated far beyond financial support, fostering connections and relationships within the Hereford community, and ensuring the continued success of junior programs.

Looking back on their journey, the Folkmans reflect with pride on the legacy they’ve built and the countless lives they’ve touched. Their commitment to Hereford cattle and junior programs serves as a testament to the enduring values of hard work, perseverance and community. As they continue to nurture their farm and support the next generation of cattle enthusiasts, the Folkman family’s legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.

GIVING BACK AT THE

STATE LEVEL

by Logan McFatridge

NJHA MEMBERSHIP CHAIR he National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) is an organization dedicated to building the future of the agricultural industry, and it starts with our membership. Every year members from across the country join together from their respective states to compete in the largest single-breed show in the nation, the VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE). Exhibitors spend months, if not years, preparing their livestock for their big day in the showring.

The cattle are just one aspect of this large event, as the bonds formed between juniors and connections made through our organization last a lifetime.

Considering how the junior exhibitors are dedicated to their animals and their relationships with each other, the NJHA makes an effort to be just as dedicated to its membership. Not only do we already offer amazing leadership opportunities, but starting at the 2023 JNHE in Madison, Wis., the NJHA and Hereford Youth Foundation of America (HYFA) have established a grant fund dedicated to state memberships, which we plan to award every year.

In 2023, the NJHA paired up with Sale Day, the online auction platform, to host the “Mad Dash to the Cash,” event, where bidders could purchase lots at face value for the chance to win a percentage of the total amount of cash gathered. The NJHA and HYFA pledged the remaining amount to state leadership and education grants.

State organizations were given the opportunity to apply for these funds in the fall of 2023, listing what they would use the funds for and how they would benefit their memberships. Questions included the state’s involvement in leadership conferences both at the state and national level, as well as current fundraising efforts and their involvement at the national level.

We are happy to announce that nine state leadership and education grants were awarded this year, each totaling $1,600 to be used in the various ways that the state explained in their application.

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Some ways that members might see these funds put to work are receiving financial help with travel expenses to leadership conferences, financial assistance with execution of preview and state shows or putting money towards building and fostering the growth of the state association. The grant possibilities are endless, as long as they are being used to further the leadership and education goals of its members and members of the NJHA. Sending members to a leadership conference is an amazing way for states to use the grant funds. Faces of Leadership is a conference hosted in different locations across the country every year; available to NJHA members 14-21 years old. In 2024, the conference is going to be held in Fort Worth, Texas, where juniors will learn skills from industry professionals, engage in leadership development and create connections with other members.

Similarly, the BOLD (Building on Leadership Development) conference is held in Desdemona, Texas, at the GKB Hi Point Ranch. At this event, 18 to 21-yearold NJHA members build on leadership skills that they already possess, working to take their skills to the next level. As an attendee of both conferences prior to getting on the NJHA board of directors, I can assure applicants that they are well worth your time. Not only do you get to learn more about your leadership abilities, but you also get to meet other juniors in the organization who will be life-long friends.

State shows are another way that associations can utilize their grant funding. Typically, these shows happen before the JNHE. This gives juniors the opportunity to exhibit their cattle before the JNHE, collaborate in preparation for JNHE contests, plan state events for the year, host membership meetings and so much more. Although these events can be expensive to host, we hope these grant funds can provide some financial relief. The NJHA realizes how important these events are to growing juniors in our organization, and we hope to encourage states to do whatever they can to help their members grow as both cattlemen and individuals.

There are so many ways that states can utilize grants to help further a junior’s NJHA experience. Reach out to the NJHA for ideas about how a grant might benefit an organization, or with questions about different opportunities. We hope to grow this state grant program to expand upon the amazing organization we all know and love. The NJHA is one of the elite breed associations and is known for producing leaders who excel when placed into different career fields.

In the future, be sure to watch for ways to support the state leadership and education grant program. This upcoming year at the 2024 JNHE, “Grand Daddy of ‘Em All,” we plan to add additional funding, including proceeds from a Grand Drive to 25 fundraiser sale, as well as a portion of the funds from the HYFA 5K Race and the Cornhole for a Cause event. Our future as an organization is very promising and we are dedicated to creating a pipeline of future leaders that will help propel the agricultural industry to the next level.

FACES OF

LEADERSHIP JULY 28-31 | FORT WORTH, TEXAS

EARLY REGISTRATION | JUNE 15 FINAL REGISTRATION BY | JULY 1 HEREFORD.ORG/YOUTH/NJHA/FACES-OF-LEADERSHIP MADE POSSIBLE BY THE COLEY-MALIR LEADERSHIP ENDOWMENT

National Junior Hereford Association

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MORE THAN THE TITLE

by Hannah Pearson

NJHA LEADERSHIP CHAIR

“W

e are merely stewards. If we don’t take the blessings we’ve been given and try to return them, we’re not doing our jobs as stewards. These young folks are our future.”

That’s how the late Bob Norton described the reason BioZyme® Inc. — owned by Bob and his wife, Lisa — stepped up to become the title sponsor of the Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) in 2007. Bob was BioZyme president at the time. His wife, Lisa, is BioZyme’s president today.

More specifically, VitaFerm® — one of BioZyme’s lines of beef cattle nutritional supplements — became the name attached to JNHE. Sure Champ®, another BioZyme line is also featured at each JNHE. You will see the VitaFerm logo on JNHE shirts, the backdrop and ring wrap, but that was never the reason for the sponsorship. The Norton’s humble generosity has always been about supporting the Hereford family, especially members of the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA).

Lisa explained in a Hereford World feature (December-2016) how ever since attending her first JNHE in 2010 she felt that she had become a part of the Hereford family and wanted to continue to be a supporting member of that family. Lisa, from an education background, felt that a junior national event was the perfect place to add educational opportunities.

This led to the Sure Champ Wheel becoming a staple at the VitaFerm booth at the JNHE and is a fun way for juniors to test their animal science knowledge. VitaFerm has continued to grow their education efforts at the JNHE, creating the VitaFerm Prep to Win Workshop, which focuses on the importance of animal nutrition.

The relationship developed beyond the JNHE. BioZyme supports other NJHA events and the Hereford Youth Foundation of America (HYFA). HYFA’s Feed the Future campaign was one example. BioZyme donated $1 to HYFA for every package of BioZyme products purchased

by NJHA members when they sent receipts of purchase to HYFA. These funds were the 10

THE ADVANTAGE

backbone of HYFA’s education pillar that is benefiting hundreds of youth today.

For instance, BioZyme donated $30,000 generated by “Feed the Future” in 2018. The donation went to the NJHA Fed Steer Shootout program. NJHA used the money to make the Fed Steer Shootout an immersive educational experience for junior participants, while helping bridge the gap between the showring and the commercial side of the cattle industry. There is no doubt NJHA participants benefit from the opportunity.

“BioZyme Inc. is always proud to support young people involved in livestock, and we are thankful for being able to show our support to the JNHE for so many years. We consider it to be a part of our responsibility to pay it forward and part of our philosophy of ‘Care that Comes Full Circle,’” Lisa explained in the Hereford World article.

Bob and Lisa, and their the company, have always focused on sharing and creating a lasting legacy. When Bob passed away unexpectedly in the spring of 2022, the Bob Norton Excellence Award was created in his honor to his dedication to Hereford youth. It was only fitting that the first award was given to Cody Jensen, Platte City, Mo. Jensen was a past chairman on the NJHA board of directors when he met the Nortons.

After college, Jensen interviewed with BioZyme Inc. and was offered a position with the company where he continues to learn and grow from the Norton’s influence.

When Jensen received the award, he explained the impact of the Norton family’s lasting legacy. “Getting to know Bob through going to those events that he was at and participating in different contests, they were always there, Bob and Lisa.” Jensen said. “Bob’s going to leave one of those lasting legacies.”

Lisa described the extraordinary opportunities to learn and grow at the JNHE and beyond.

“Those who are fortunate enough to attend are not only having fun, but showcasing livestock skills, knowledge and commitment. BioZyme Inc. believes these same traits are the foundation of a true leader,” Lisa explained. “Therefore, we believe supporting JNHE is assisting in building the leaders our industry needs to remain sustainable while building its future.

In addition, any junior who attends is creating and strengthening relationships that will endure for many, many years. All of you understand the importance of taking care of your animals and others. We believe you are the future leaders of agriculture – and the world— and we are happy to support you.”

A huge thank you to the Norton’s and BioZyme for all they have done for Hereford youth throughout the years. The NJHA can’t wait to celebrate the 25 years of the JNHE alongside our long-time title sponsor.

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THE ADVANTAGE

by Kaylee McInvale NJHA DIRECTOR

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ince its inception in 2019, Bridging the Gap at the VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) has helped Hereford juniors explore further education and career goals by meeting representatives from colleges and agricultural businesses. Coming from a university program that required an internship before graduating, this program was a great way to open my eyes to things I wanted to consider in the agricultural industry.

Terri Barber, Executive Sales Manager, Elanco Animal Health, has been involved in Bridging the Gap from the very beginning at the JNHE in Denver, Colo.

“The experience has been an interactive recruitment success that has opened doors for youth who are looking to expand their knowledge in the animal health industry,” Barber says. “The youth have been able to do this through our various intern opportunities with a high success rate for full-time employment once their focused internships are completed.

“Bridging the Gap gives both Elanco and the Hereford junior members the ability to meet face-to-face and discover how we can best meet each other’s goals.

It’s a win-win for both, as each year this event results in successful partnerships in the juniors’ areas of focus, while allowing Elanco to recruit top talent. Without question, this experience allows juniors to take the lead and explore their potential collegiate choices by making educated decisions about their future.”

In 2023, Fawcett’s Elm Creek Ranch, Ree Heights, S.D., was the first ranch at Bridging the Gap as a potential employer. Danny and Kyla Fawcett share some insights about the experience from the perspective of a Hereford seedstock operation and as a business.

“As a first timer, we obviously didn’t know what to expect, but we went into the situation with an open mind.

We knew we would have the opportunity to meet a great group of young adults and that we did,” the Fawcetts say.

“Any opportunity to communicate with our juniors is an opportunity that needs to be taken. Not just to increase our brand recognition, but to potentially find the perfect fit to be involved in our ranch and more importantly to help these kids be the best they can be.”

Fawcett’s Elm Creek Ranch involvement with Bridging the Gap was the perfect example of career opportunities available outside the traditional corporate setting, whether or not formal college education is pursued.

“One of the biggest challenges for farms and ranches is to find help. The junior members need to know that they don’t have to go into a corporate setting or a “9-5” to be successful,” the Fawcetts explain. “If young people are interested in agriculture, they need to know that there are jobs available out in the country that are financially rewarding. We are always looking for help.”

OPTIONS Coming from the collegiate side of the program, Angie Denton, communications and marketing specialist for the Department of Animal Sciences and Industry (ASI) at Kansas State University, utilizes Bridging the Gap for college recruitment. “I have attended the last two Bridging the Gaps as a representative for the ASI department at Kansas State. As a National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) parent, I think it is a great opportunity for our high school students to learn about university and career options,” Denton says. “From a university perspective, it is a great way to visit with and recruit undergraduates. It gives us a chance to tell our story and explain the opportunities we have on campus.”

It is not just the surface-level meet and greet that one might assume from a college and career fair. Bridging the Gap is truly making industry and educational connections for juniors that could last a lifetime.

“As a parent I think that both Bridging the Gap and the Future Professionals contest are great opportunities for our high school and college-aged students. It is real-world, hands-on experience outside the showring that helps develop the next generation of industry leaders,” Denton says. “I commend the NJHA and the American Hereford Association for implementing both and recognizing the importance of resume building, interviews and networking; all the skills that are keys to success in today’s world.”

Personally, I believe everyone agrees that the program is a great way to get your foot in the door and have an advantage over your peers in the industry.

Exploring options for life beyond high school and college are far more diverse than many assume and having an opportunity to casually dive deeper into those opportunities is the beauty of the Bridging the Gap event.

SEPTEMBER, 2023 TEAGAN WUNSCHEL, Plymouth, Calif.

Teagan is an active member of the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA)NJHA and passionate about the California-Nevada Junior Hereford Association since she became a member in 2013. Having attended the previous two Faces of Leadership conferences and representing her state association at the Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) as the state queen, she is making great strides to be a leader in her own region.

OCTOBER, 2023 KADE BOATMAN, Rockford, Ill. Kade has been involved in almost every aspect of the NJHA, including the contests and cattle at the JNHE, NJHA Fed Steer Shootout, Faces of Leadership and more.

Even at the age of 17, he has been recognized countless times and does not appear to be slowing down.

NOVEMBER, 2023 KARSYN KLEEMAN, Braymer, Mo. Karsyn has been an active junior member, both inside and outside of the showring. Having attended both the JNHE for many years as well as the Faces of leadership conference, she is continuing to develop her skills, enough to be noticed and recognized by others in her state to earn a nomination.

DECEMBER, 2023 AUGUSTUS SEXTON, Cost, Texas Augustus is a sophomore in high school with a short term goal of attending college for livestock judging. His future goals include pursuing a production focused career in the cattle industry. He is an active member of the Texas Junior Hereford Association and enjoys competing at the Texas state show each summer. He also is a cohost on the podcast EmpowerU, to continue growing his own knowledge, and listeners knowledge about the industry.

JANUARY, 2024 MASON ALLAN, Nocona, Texas Mason is a sophomore at Redlands Community College majoring in animal science with plans of continuing on for his bachelor’s degree at Texas Tech University.

While continuing his livestock judging career in his undergraduate programs, he also plans on striving towards a master’s in ruminant nutrition, with career goals of a job as a beef cattle nutritionist, while assisting with his family operation, Bar A Cattle. Mason has been a highly active member of the NJHA with a very successful career in and out of the showring.

FEBRUARY, 2024 BEAU ANN GRAVES, Chillicothe, Mo. Beau Ann has been an active member in the NJHA and Missouri Junior Hereford Association, currently serving as the state fundraising co-chair. She has attended the JNHE every year since 2018 where she has competed at the highest level, earning herself the title of champion showman in the intermediate division at the 2023 JNHE, and reserve grand champion polled female at the 2021 JNHE. She has continued to stretch herself beyond the showring, competing in contests and attending the Faces of Leadership Conference for two years.

OUR

WHY?

by Wesley Denton

NJHA VICE CHAIRMAN he price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best of ourselves to the task at hand,” said Vince Lombardi, namesake of the National Football League’s Lombardi Trophy.

A hard decision I made as a freshman in high school was to not play sports and focus on other priorities and interests. I decided to focus on showing Hereford cattle as my sport, and the activities tied to the showring to achieve my ultimate goal of being on the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) board of directors. Being from a small school, this was not an easy decision or one that was accepted by friends, coaches or the community.

But I wanted to focus all my efforts into one project and be the best I could be at that, instead of spreading myself too thin and being unable to be perfect at everything. I didn’t just focus on showing, but I focused on activities tied to my Hereford project, including NJHA, FFA and 4-H, all of which have set me up for success as I look towards my future.

Since I was a peewee junior member, I have looked up to NJHA directors as influential leaders and role models.

And since my first VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) 12 years ago, I had the goal to become a NJHA director myself and be like the leaders who helped shape my experience in the NJHA. Through the years, I challenged myself to step beyond my comfort zones, participating in contests outside the showring, ranging from illustrated speech and sales to Hereford Bowl and even the photography contest. As a NJHA member, I have had the opportunity to develop leadership skills, learn the importance of responsibility and become an advocate for the Hereford breed and beef industry.

The showring taught me the nature of competitiveness, leadership and responsibility that comes from caring for cattle, while the activities beyond the ring developed my character and soft skills. Because of the impact these moments have had on me growing up through the NJHA, I have also tried and appreciated the chance to be a mentor to younger members in and out of the showring.

During my campaign and my three-year term as an NJHA director, I have learned very valuable attributes to success, and a quote I will always remember is, “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” I believe, as an NJHA director, the focus should be to lead by example, serve as a mentor and most importantly, serve with the best interests of our members at heart. I believe it is important to take the time to create strong relationships

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THE ADVANTAGE

with the entire membership, demonstrating that you are not only dependable, but that your character means more than just taking on the role as a resume builder or another accolade.

Communication is one of the most important keys to success as a leader. Being able to effectively communicate within a group of people helps us understand our members and learn what their needs are. As an NJHA director, you have the opportunity to build and maintain connections within the entire organization, no matter the member’s age. I feel that as time goes on and the older you grow in an organization, the less you stay involved as a mentor, whether because you begin to lack interest or because you have too many other commitments. I believe building connections between older and younger members makes younger members more comfortable finding new friends and sparks an interest in them to want to make a difference in our organization. It also offers the ability for older members to reflect and remember the impact that these programs had on them.

During my time on the board, we have pushed for the Pen-to-Pen program to give new and older members alike an incentive to get involved and create a communication network that will continue beyond their time in the organization. I also think it is important to attend events such as the Faces of Leadership conference and the Building on Leadership Development conference. These events allow members to branch out of their comfort zones and expand their knowledge of the Hereford breed, as well as give them the opportunity to meet other juniors at an event when we don’t have the responsibility of taking care of cattle, like at the JNHE. From personal experience, events such as this have given me the tools to succeed as a leader while developing friendships with junior Hereford members from across the U.S. I highly encourage members to take advantage of applying for a position on the NJHA board of directors and taking their leadership skills to the next step. For all the reasons I mentioned and the impact this organization has made on me, and I hope to have made on others, it is now time for someone else to take on the responsibility and honor of this position.

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US-NON-220800036

National Junior Hereford Association

17

DON’T LET THE RINGWRAP

by Haley Mouser NJHA FUNDRAISING CHAIR ou likely see and hear “sponsored by” at every show, conference or event you attend. Think about the VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE): the massive show program filled with pages of sponsors; the video playing on the jumbotron; the screen by the stage; the signs posted each day around the grounds directing you to contests; the ring wrap that lines the arena. They are each connected to a supporter. Sponsors names are everywhere, but how often do we take a minute to actually read them? After each event, you are asked to write a thank-you to one of these sponsors, but when you sat down, pen in hand, was all that hit the paper generic words and maybe three sentences at best?

If I totaled up all the thank you-notes I have written on behalf of 4-H, FFA and the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA), I wouldn’t be surprised if it equaled more than a few hundred. I have no doubt many of you have written just as many, and certainly some of you even more. Writing thank-you notes is a task I often find myself procrastinating about because of the time and thought I know they will require; yet, it’s vitally important to realize the why behind the thank-you we are writing. While it may seem to us like just a few sentences on a branded note, they are a truly meaningful way to show our gratitude to real people who have invested in our lives.

Y

18

THE ADVANTAGE

The Hereford Youth Foundation of America (HYFA) plays a major role in providing avenues for these donors to support the NJHA and the JNHE. Serving as fundraising chair this past year has brought into new light how much is made possible because of breeders and their support of our success.

Since HYFA was established in 2000, it has continued to grow and flourish. While its success is certainly a testament to strong leadership, it is just as much a testament to the real impact this organization is having for Hereford youth. The vast majority of donations to HYFA are long-term partnerships, not just one-time commitments, because donors know their support is truly making a difference.

Four major HYFA campaigns play an integral role in raising support for all the opportunities within the NJHA: the Lot 1 Foundation Female; Growing a Lasting Legacy; Foundation 1 Campaign; and the Season of Giving.

The key to understanding these campaigns is seeing the individuals who contributed to their beginning and have made commitments to Hereford youth through them.

In 2008, the inaugural Lot 1 Foundation Female was auctioned for a record-setting $100,000 at the National Western Stock Show in Denver, Colo. It was donated by Star Lake Cattle Ranch, Skiatook, Okla., and purchased

by Ken and Carolyn Larson, DeSoto, Texas, and the Blin Family, Independence, Iowa. Since then, every January the National Hereford Sale has featured a Lot 1 donation, which have raised more than $1 million dollars from nearly 70 participating families. This past year at Cattlemen’s Conference in Oklahoma City, the tradition continued and expanded to include a second donation lot for the first time.

Next, the Growing a Lasting Legacy campaign was established in 2013 to ensure the sustainability and growth of the JNHE. Key to the founding of this campaign was Sue and the late Jim Rowald of G&R Polled Herefords, Marysville, Kan. While various fundraisers and donation opportunities are available within this campaign, the annual spring Sale of Champions (begun in 2020) is a major facet. The Sale of Champions is an online sale offering unique genetic lots donated by juniors and their families who were past JNHE champions. The generosity of Hereford breeders was on full display in 2024, as there were lots featuring genetics from each of the top five bred-and-owned females at the 2023 JNHE. The sale grossed a record-setting $100,000.

The Foundation 1 Campaign joined the lineup in 2017. Sierra Ranches of Modesto, Cal., generously committed 1% of the proceeds from their fall production sale to benefit HYFA. The resulting Foundation 1

Campaign began providing a way for other breeders and businesses to do the same. Soon after establishment, national sales such as Ladies of the Royal and the Mile High Night Sale followed suit, as did the Hereford Prep Collection and Michelle Weber Studios. The campaign continues to grow and flourish. Other breeders and businesses have stepped up to join the campaign.

Including: T/R Cattle Company, Glencoe, Okla.; ST Genetics, Navasota, Texas; Jensen Bros. Herefords, Courtland; and Brumley Farms, Orovada, Nev. Generous supporters elevated the campaign last January at the National Hereford Sale with two lots from C&L Hereford Ranch and Oleson Family Farms, as well as T/R Cattle Co. Lastly, the Season of Giving began in 2022 as one more way to recognize and grow the incredible array of HYFA and the NJHA donors. For one festive week in December, all donations go toward “unwrapping” previously committed gifts ranging in value from $25,000 to $25. The 2023 Season of Giving raised $284,000 on behalf of Hereford youth and research. A gift from the Robert D. Call Trust was a special highlight. Call was a true Hereford enthusiast, whose passion to see youth succeed led him to serve as the first HYFA president. In 2000, Bob also led the Oklahoma host committee which welcomed juniors from across the nation to the very first JNHE. As we look to celebrate the 25th JNHE this summer, Call, Rowland, Larson, Blin and all other names mentioned, are exactly the people we need to remember, recognize and thank for their contribution to this association, resulting in the prestigious, influential opportunities now available to each of you. Their lasting commitment and long-standing partnerships are why a 25-year JNHE legacy exists. With this in mind, HYFA launched its most recent campaign, The Grand Drive to 25, to encourage more partnerships which will continue building the legacy for 25 years more.

The Grand Drive to 25 offers customizable donor packages in increments of one to five years to highlight those who make up the history and the future of the JNHE. All these names mentioned only scratch the surface of the incredible group of donors that backs this association, but in reality, they are backing each one of you. As you gear up to participate in an NJHA activity, such as BOLD, applying for scholarships, participating in the NJHA Fed Steer Shootout field day or attending the “Grand Daddy of ‘Em All,” I encourage you to take on a mindset of gratitude. Reflect on the 25-year legacy that helped establish the opportunities available to you. When you sit down to write a thank-you, think about who you are writing to and why; it is not simply a name on paper, it is a real person with a passion for Hereford cattle, just like you. Lastly, when you walk into the showring at the “Grand Daddy of ‘Em All” this summer, don’t let the ring wrap fade into the background, but see those names as an incredible and massive crowd, cheering just for you.

HONORING TRADITION

by Tar Tut NJHA CHAIRMAN

H

ard-work, grit and determination are just a few different descriptors of cattlemen.

Their dedication to the livestock they care for and the traditions of the industry are commendable and their efforts should be celebrated. Among the numerous events that work to recognize and honor this tradition, the VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) stands out for its legacy of excellence and commitment to creating the future generation of livestock enthusiasts.

As it prepares to celebrate the 25th event, the JNHE has become an annual tradition in the Hereford breed, drawing youth from all corners of the nation to showcase their passion, knowledge and skills in the industry we all love. As this silver anniversary approaches, a new tradition is set to be unveiled, one that promises to honor and inspire the young participants in a unique and meaningful way.

THE SHOWMANSHIP AWARD BY GRIMMEL-SCHAAKE CATTLE CO.

This historic year represents a new chapter in history of the JNHE, one filled with promise, opportunity and a commitment to excellence.

20

THE ADVANTAGE

The first annual Showmanship Award by GrimmelSchaake Cattle Co. will be awarded at this year’s JNHE. Grimmel-Schaake Cattle Co., Manhattan, Kan., has a legacy deeply rooted in the cattle industry. GrimmelSchaake brings not only their expertise but also their commitment to fostering excellence among the next generation of livestock enthusiasts.

The concept of the new and prestigious showmanship award is as unique as it is inspiring.

Unlike traditional awards that remain stationary, gathering dust on a shelf, this award is designed to come to each JNHE as a perpetual award, having the newest champion added to the historic list of all who have come before. It’s a symbolic award that embodies the spirit of hard work and dedication within the Hereford family, as well as the continuous pursuit of excellence that all cattlemen strive toward.

“Showmanship is one of our biggest and most competitive contests at the JNHE, and champion senior showman is one of the top honors of a junior’s career, so it is neat to add this special award to commemorate such a historic accomplishment for the champion showman.

The trophy will highlight all of the past winners throughout the 25-year history of the JNHE,” says Amy Cowan, American Hereford Association (AHA) director of youth activities and foundation.

BEHIND THE AWARD Grimmel-Schaake Cattle Co. is an exemplary cattle operation that is also an inspiration to many young leaders in the industry. The farm exemplifies the values of hard work, innovation and respect for the animals they raise. From humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of the community, their commitment to excellence has remained unwavering.

Melissa Grimmel-Schaake grew up as an active member in the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA), winning champion senior showman at the JNHE in 2016.

“Growing up, we were not always blessed with the highest quality cattle, therefore we took showmanship very seriously to present our cattle to their highest ability by enhancing their strengths and masking their weaknesses,” Melissa explains. “Regardless of how you place in the cattle show, showmanship is earned through hard work and dedication. It is the definition of teamwork and developing a bond between you and your animal.”

In Melissa’s opinion, the honor comes with great responsibility to uphold the standards of excellence that have been set before her and to inspire the next generation of showmen and women to reach for the stars. She is a prime example, recently receiving the title of AHA 2024 Herdsman of the Year during Cattlemen’s Congress. However, she knows she is not alone in her journey. Behind every great showman or woman stands a team of dedicated individuals – mentors, family members, and fellow competitors – who have supported and encouraged them every step of the way. It’s this sense of community that lies at the heart of the livestock industry bound together by a shared love for the animals and a passion for excellence.

Shane Schaake, Melissa’s husband, shares their commitment to the youth, having been active in the Simmental breed growing up.

“We are big believers in the youth livestock programs and recognize how they influenced our own lives and led us to where we are in the industry today,” Shane says.

While we do not have kids of our own, we consider the Hereford juniors a part of our family, and forever lifelong friends. “We take pride in having the opportunity to give back in helping to develop the next generation of cattlemen and women.”

A PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE “The Hereford showmanship contest is undeniably the most prestigious within the livestock industry, revered and respected across all breeds,” Melissa says.

“For many juniors, winning the showmanship title is not just a momentary triumph but a lifelong aspiration. It represents the culmination of countless hours of practice, perseverance, and passion for the Hereford breed.”

Understanding the impact that winning such an accolade can have on a young competitor’s journey, Grimmel-Schaake Cattle Co. felt compelled to find a way to commemorate this extraordinary achievement in a significant way to impact the future.

“With this trophy, we aim to do more than simply acknowledge the current winner. Our goal is to pay tribute to the mentors and industry leaders who have paved the way for excellence in showmanship,” Shane says.

THE ART OF SHOWMANSHIP What exactly does it take to earn such an honor? For those familiar with the work that goes into this type of achievement, the answer is clear — skill, dedication and a genuine love for the animals. Showmanship is more than just walking a calf into the ring, it requires patience, finesse, and an understanding of individual cattle.

In honoring the dedication it takes to succeed in showmanship, the perpetual showmanship award not only recognizes individual achievement but celebrates the rich heritage and camaraderie that define the JNHE. As the 25th Anniversary of the Junior National Hereford Expo approaches, anticipation continues to build. For the organizers, participants and sponsors, this historic year represents a new chapter in the history of the JNHE, one filled with promise, opportunity and a commitment to excellence. As the perpetual showmanship award embarks on its inaugural journey, it is sure to set a precedent of success and achievement for generations to come.

by Marie Prodell NATIONAL HEREFORD QUEEN

F

or those of you who don’t know me, my name is Marie Prodell, and I am the 2024 National Hereford Queen from Wisconsin. I am a first-generation Hereford breeder who started my Hereford journey in 2015 when I found my love and passion for the Hereford industry. Since I started my reign last October, I have gotten to experience the Hereford industry in its entirety.

Due to the immense travel over the show season I am just starting to have time to reflect on my adventures so far as the 2024 National Hereford Queen.

From traveling to many different parts of the country, meeting many influential breeders and engaging with youth, there has been one quote that I keep thinking about, “Purpose Fuels Passion.” This quote emphasizes how these events have impacted my life. As a first-generation Hereford breeder, watching, conversing and engaging with industry leaders who have been leaders in the Hereford breed has been an eye-opening experience. Seeing how these individuals know their purpose and role in the industry and use morals, knowledge and determination to fuel their passion for what they do has been incredible to reminisce about.

As the show season slows down, I am making plans to celebrate the 25th VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) in Grand Island, Neb. I will be launching my service project at this event. Being a first-generation Hereford breeder who started her Hereford herd from scratch, there was a lot that my family and I had to learn about the industry. Some of the most impactful experiences I had as a youth exhibitor were attending the Faces of Leadership conference and the Building on Leadership (BOLD) conference, hosted by the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA). These events helped me dig deep into who I was and what my purpose is as a Hereford breeder. Not only did I learn a lot about myself and how to be a better leader, but I also made many impactful connections and lifelong friends that are now a part of my support system.

At JNHE, we are going to be having a booth for my service project that will allow youth to come and paint a title that describes what their Hereford experience means to them. These paintings are then going to be collected and combined to form an original mural called, “The Next Gen Project”. This will be a combination of all the artwork done by the youth exhibitors at JNHE! This painting will then be the main center piece of an art auction that will be hosted during Kansas City at the American Royal with the National Hereford Women. The proceeds of the art auction will then go towards scholarships for youth to attend Faces of Leadership and/or BOLD. In addition to the main center piece, we are going to be searching for donations of other Hereford orientated artwork to contribute to this scholarship fund for youth!

Art is a word that has many different definitions. Artwork can be defined as painting, drawings, sculptures, or even 22

THE ADVANTAGE

THE NEXT-GEN PROJECT

something unique and original. If you would like to donate a piece of art towards my service project or have any questions, you can reach out to me via the National Hereford Queen Facebook page, or personally at marie. prodell@my.uwrf.edu or give me a call at (920)255-3993!

In terms of my queen’s tea, I have decided to tie in the theme of my service project and have a fun and engaging activity many of you know as “Sip and Paint”!

Therefore, It’s Tea Party Time! During the queen’s tea portion of JNHE, we are going to provide the opportunity for attendees to come and paint their own Hereford styled teacup! Everyone will then be able to bring home their teacup to use in remembrance of the 25th annual JNHE and the 2024 National Hereford Queen’s Queens Tea! The purpose of my service project is to help give Hereford youth the opportunity to dig deep and find what their Hereford story means to them! Not only is this a way to reflect on how they got to where they are, but also helps show others in the Hereford and cattle industry what it means to be a Hereford breeder as someone who is apart of the next generation. Supporting the next generation to help them explore themselves as individuals is key to promoting a growing industry as Hereford enthusiasts. I look forward to seeing you all this summer! As always, let’s come home to Hereford!

DATES DATES & & DEADLINES DEADLINES MAY

3-5 4-5

The Big East, West Springfield, Mass.

15

Maryland Junior Hereford Preview Show, Gaithersburg, Md. VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) early bird entry deadline

18 24-26 24-26

Pennsylvania Junior Show, Meadville, Pa. California/Nevada Junior Hereford Association Field Day, Red Bluff, Calif.

Kansas Junior Show, Manhattan, Kan.

24-26

Red Dirt Rendezvous Regional, El Reno, Okla.

31 - JUNE 2

Ohio Premier Junior Preview Show, Lebanon, Ohio

JUNE 1

Advisor of the Year Nominations Due Contests Deadline (CHB Cooking Challenge, Advanced Speech, Future Professionals, Illustrated

Speech, Individual Sales, Sales Academy, Judging, Photo and Showmanship)

NJHA Board Candidate Application Deadline JNHE Final Entry & Ownership Deadline (No late entries accepted.)

1-2 1-2 5-8 6-9 7-8 7-8 7-9 7-9 8-9 13-16 15

Indiana Junior Preview Show, Lebanon, Ind. Wisconsin Junior Preview Show, Jefferson, Wis. Texas Junior State Show, Belton, Texas Missouri Cattleman’s Junior All Breeds Show, Sedalia, Mo. Northwest Regional Junior Show, Longview, Wash.

Kentucky State Show, Winchester, Ky. Iowa Junior Preview Show, Oskaloosa, Iowa Nebraska Junior Show, Kearney, Neb. South Dakota Junior Hereford Field Day, Sioux Falls, S.D. Southeastern Regional Junior Hereford Exposition, Perry, Ga. Faces of Leadership Earlybird Registration Deadline

14-15

Idaho Junior Beef Expo, Filer, Id.

14-16 21-23

Illinois Junior Preview Show, Georgetown, Ill.

JULY

1

Midwest Classic Junior Hereford Preview Show, Pipestone, Minn.

Final Faces of Leadership Registration Deadline JNHE Hereford Bowl Contest Entry Deadline JNHE Team Fitting Contest Entry Deadline JNHE RSVP’s Due (Bridging the Gap, Membership Meeting, Cornhole for a Cause)

6-12

Grand Daddy of ‘Em All, VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo, Grand Island, Neb.

28-31

Faces of Leadership Conference, Fort Worth, Texas

MESSAGES Ends in

2 Days

today

Hey NJHA members - best of luck in

Current Price

$2,500 the 2024 show season. See you all in

Grand Island!

THE PLACE TO BUY & SELL

@AGSALEDAY 24

THE ADVANTAGE

the junior national hereford expo 2024 | grand island, neb.

The Grand Daddy of ‘Em All Schedule is subject to change. For the most up to date version of the 2024 JNHE schedule, go to hereford.org/youth/junior-national-hereford-expo/resources/

SATURDAY, JULY 6 2 p.m.

Gates open for tack trailers to arrive and set up in barns

6 p.m.

Cattle may arrive into tie-outs through the night

SUNDAY, JULY 7 7 a.m.

8 a.m.

9 a.m. - Noon 9:30 a.m.

9 a.m.

11 a.m.

Noon Noon 12:30 - 3:30 p.m.

2 p.m.

3:30 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

NJHA Board and Candidate Orientation Breakfast Tatoo checks begin in each barn Cattle Paper Check-In Hereford Bowl Check-In & Written Test All cattle must be in barns at this time Advanced & Illustrated Speech Contest Steer weights declared electronically by this time Queen’s Orientation Neogen’s DNA Collection Stations Hereford Pen-to-Pen Session #1 Meet the Candidate Ice Cream Social & Delegate Roundtables State Group Photos Begin Opening Ceremonies Grand Daddy of ‘Em All Food & Fun Night and Cornhole for a Cause HYFA’s Grand Drive to 25 5K Race

Foundation Club, Five Point Bank Arena

Judging Contest Check-In & Orientation Judging Contest Individual Sales & Sales Academy National Hereford Women’s Queen’s Tea VitaFerm® Prep to Win Workshop Hereford Pen-to-Pen Session #2 Hereford Bowl Buzzer Round (start with junior division) Sullivan Supply Stock Show University Sullivan Supply Fitting Contest Future Professionals Contest Interviews Bridging the Gap College & Career Fair Social Networking

Five Points Bank Arena Five Points Bank Arena Pinnacle Bank Expo Center Contest Rooms Beef Pit, Pinnacle Bank Expo Center Five Points Bank Arena Pinnacle Bank Expo Center Quilt Room Pinnacle Bank Expo Center Quilt Room Five Points Bank Arena Five Points Bank Arena Pinnacle Bank Expo Center Contest Rooms Beef Pit, Pinnacle Bank Expo Center

State Group of 3 & 5 Classes Sullivan Supply National Showmanship Contest Senior, Intermediate & Senior Finals Junior & Peewee

Five Points Bank Arena Five Points Bank Arena Ring 1 Ring 2

MONDAY, JULY 8 8 a.m.

9 a.m.

11 a.m.

11 a.m.

Noon 1 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

3 p.m.

5 p.m.

6 p.m.

6-8 p.m.

TUESDAY, JULY 9 8 a.m.

9 a.m.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 10 7 a.m.

9 a.m.

Tom Dinsdale Automotive Cattle Barn, Aurora Cooperative Barn, Sheep Barn

Pinnacle Bank Expo Center Pinnacle Bank Expo Center Quilt Room Pinnacle Bank Expo Center Contest Rooms Foundation Club, Five Point Bank Arena Line Up Arena in Sheep Barn Pinnacle Bank Expo Center Quilt Room Pinnacle Bank Expo Center Five Points Bank Arena Five Points Bank Arena Aurora Cooperative Pavilion Aurora Cooperative Pavilion

NJHA Membership Update, Breakfast & New Board Election Pinnacle Bank Expo Center Quilt Room Bred-and-Owned Show Five Points Bank Arena Cow-Calf Pairs, Bred-and-Owned Females, Produce of Dam Group Ring 1 Steer Show followed by Bred-and-Owned Bulls Ring 2 *Buckle and Awards Ceremony honoring CHB Cooking Challenge, Photo & Poster Contests, prior to selection of the Bred-and-Owned Top Five

THURSDAY, JULY 11 7:30 a.m.

6 p.m.

Owned Female Show Five Points Bank Arena HYFA Scholarship, Awards & Maroon Jacket Ceremony Five Points Bank Arena *Buckle and Awards Ceremony honoring Future Professionals, Sales, Speech and Judging Contests, will follow the selection of the Division 3 Polled Females

FRIDAY, JULY 12 7:30 a.m.

Conclusion of Owned Female Show Five Points Bank Arena *Buckle and Awards Ceremony recognizing Herdsman of the Year, Walter and Joe Lewis High Point Senior, GKB Super States, Golden Pitchfork and the Bob Norton Excellence Award will be held prior to the champion drives ®

the junior national hereford expo 2024 | grand island, neb.

The Grand Daddy of ‘Em All rules & regulations

ENTRY INFORMATION 1. Fees: • Early Bird Online Entry Fee is $50 per entry if processed by MAY 15 • Online Entries processed between MAY 16 and JUNE 1 are $70 per head • A one-time bedding fee per animal is $70 and includes bedding for tie-outs.

• Entries submitted prior to the Early Bird deadline with animals not meeting the entry requirements will be put on hold and will be charged an additional $20.

2. Deadlines: • Early Bird Entry & Ownership Deadline - May 15 • Final Entry & Ownership Deadline - June 1 • Steer weights will be declared electronically by noon, Sunday, July 7 • Arrival Deadline for all cattle is 9 a.m. on Sunday, July 7, and all cattle must be processed by noon Sunday, July 7.

3. ENTRY FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. 4. All animals must be registered and transferred prior to the June 1 entry and ownership deadline date.

5. No late transfers, entries or substitutions will be accepted.

6. YOU MUST have a registration number before completing your online entry. This includes calves on the side of cowcalf pairs. Plan ahead to ensure registrations and transfers are handled in advance of the May 15 and June 1 deadlines.

“PENDING” or “APPLIED FOR” will not, under any circumstances, be accepted.

7. Be sure to indicate whether your female(s) will show in the owned show, the bred-and-owned show, or both. Female(s) exhibited in both shows will require two entry fees and one bedding fee and must be entered on the same exhibitor’s entry.

8. Animals that are multi-owned and showing in BOTH the bred-and-owned and owned shows, must be entered on the exhibitors entries that will be showing in the bred-and-owned show. If the animal is entered on two seperate entries, it will be removed from one of the entries.

9. If an animal is transferred after the completion of any entry, the animal will be removed from the entries and the exhibitor will not receive the stall space or refund.

10. If an animal is duplicated on an entry(ies) the duplicated animal will be deleted and the exhibitor will not receive the stall space or refund.

11. All entries and additional orders must be submitted through herefordjuniornational.com by the final deadline.

12. VitaFerm Sure Champ will be sponsoring one free shirt to each exhibitor who enters cattle; additional shirts may be purchased online through June 1, or at the JNHE.

BARN & TIE OUT POLICIES 1. Porta Cool Units WILL NOT BE allowed in the barns or in the tie-out areas.

2. No pens or tents will be allowed in tie outs.

3. No need to arrive early and mark tie outs since tie outs will be pre-assigned by state and marked by state advisors. All cattle will be tied on the panels provided in the tie out area and NO INDIVIDUAL PENS will be built in tie outs. We appreciate your cooperation with this and your help ensuring everyone has adequate space in tie outs.

4. No generators inside the barns and due to liability concerns and recent fire code regulations, generators and fans WILL NOT be allowed in the tie out area. This rule will be strictly enforced and we appreciate everyone’s cooperation as we work to ensure the safety of all cattle stalled in tie outs throughout the week.

STALLING INFORMATION 1. No advisors or exhibitors will be allowed to mark or set up stalls or any decorations prior to the barns being open Saturday, July 6 at 2 p.m. All exhibitors will be stalled by state in the barn and advisors are in charge of stalling assignments within each state. The state advisors will have final say in stalling for each state, so we ask that everyone cooperate with this stalling process in order to get the week off to a good start.

2. No advisors may physically mark stalls prior to barns being open, Saturday, July 6 at 2 p.m. We do encourage advisors to assign stalls and share assignments with exhibitors prior to arrival at the JNHE. 3. No cattle will be allowed on grounds until 6 p.m., Saturday, July 6 and no cattle in barns until Sunday morning, July 7.

4. ALL CATTLE EXHIBITING AT THE JNHE MUST BE STALLED WITH THE STATE THE JUNIOR EXHIBITOR IS FROM. If under special circumstances the case arises that the junior exhibitor is competing with a different state association, it must be specified at the time of entry, no exceptions.

CLASS BREAKS & SHOW STRUCTURES 1. Class and division breaks will be determined after check-in. The AHA classifications for national shows will be utilized as guidelines.

2. Steers classes will be split by weight.

3. There WILL NOT be a 2024 calf division in the OWNED female show.

4. If the number of entries warrant, classes will be divided.

5. Horned and polled bred-and-owned females will show together.

6. Horned and polled bulls will show together.

7. Horned and polled pairs will be combined in one cow-calf show.

8. Horned or de-horned animals are eligible for the horned owned breeding show Polled cattle or cattle with scurs are eligible for the polled owned breeding show.

9. Horned and polled owned females will be shown separately, alternating at the divisions.

BRED-AND-OWNED SHOW RULES 1. To be eligible for the bred-and-owned show, the exhibitor(s) must have owned the entry’s dam at the time of conception and must be listed as the breeder and original owner on the registration certificate.

2. Bred-and-owned females calved on or after August 1, 2022 are eligible.

3. Bred-and-owned females may also show in the owned show. This must be declared at the time of the entry. An additional entry fee will be charged.

4. Bred-and-owned bulls calved after August 1, 2022 are eligible.

5. There will not be a class for 2-year-old bulls.

6. Bred-and-owned bulls must have been bred by the junior exhibitor, but may be owned jointly with an adult/farm, provided that the junior exhibitor is the sole breeder, original owner and is officially recorded as a current owner of that bull.

7. All bulls calved before January 1, 2024, must be shown with a nose lead.

SPECIAL COW-CALF RULES 1. Offered to cows born prior to Aug. 1, 2022.

2. No maximum age for cows.

3. Calf must be her natural calf and no more than 240 days in age as of the day of the show. (Calves must be born on or after November 13, 2023.)

4. There will be a bred-and-owned cow-calf division and an owned cow-calf division. Winners of the bred-and-owned and owned divisions will compete for grand champion cow-calf pair.

5. Bred-and-owned cow-calf class – Exhibitor must be the breeder and owner of BOTH the cow and the calf. The same cow-calf pair may not show in both the bred-and-owned and owned cow-calf classes.

6. Owned cow-calf classes – Exhibitor must be the breeder of the calf and must have been the recorded owner of the cow at the time of conception.

7. Calves at the side of cow-calf pairs may show in separate female or bull shows, however, additional entry fees will apply. If the calf is not showing separately an additional $70 bedding fee applies.

8. The bred-and-owned bull show ownership rules apply to bull calves in the cow-calf show.

9. There will be no nurse cows allowed in the cow-calf pair show or stalled in the barns.

STEER RULES 1. All steers showing at the JNHE must be registered by the AHA and out of a registered sire and dam.

2. All steers will be required to be parent verified to both sire and dam, therefore, a DNA profile of the steer, the sire and dam must be completed through the official AHA lab by entry deadline. To request a DNA kit for your animal, access your MyHerd or contact AHA customer service.

3. No steer certificates will be accepted, only registration papers.

4. Steer classes will be divided by weight.

5. The JNHE will be using a weigh back system. The JNHE steer exhibitor must electronically submit and turn in a form with their steers’ declared weight. Declaration forms are available at the scales and through JNHE Resources. This will become the animal’s official weight and this data will be used when breaking classes and will be provided to the judge.

6. The top three placing animals in each class will be weighed. No reweighs will be allowed once the animal has stepped off of the scale.

7. There will be a 5% tolerance from the declared weight and the show day weight. All animals outside of the 5% tolerance will be disqualified.

8. There will NOT be a separate prospect steer show.

SPECIAL CLASSES 1. Produce of Dam – Each exhibitor can enter 1 group consisting of two bred-and-owned progeny representing one dam. No steers are allowed. Enter through herefordjuniornational.com by June 1.

2. State Groups – Two divisions of any combination of steers, females or bulls is acceptable. There may be only one group per state. State Advisors are responsible for entries, they can be found on the JNHE resources page.

• Large State Division - 25 head or more entered by the state » Five animals from one state, owned by three or more exhibitors and representing not more than two animals per exhibitor.

• Small State Division - Less than 25 head entered by state » Three animals from one state, owned by two or more exhibitors and representing not more than two animals per exhibitor.

3. Premier Adult and Junior Breeder • Award points are computed from winnings in breeding animal classes: » 5 points for 1st » 4 points for 2nd » 3 points for 3rd » 2 points for 4th » 1 point for 5th place.

• Points are given only for individual classes; no points for champions or groups.

• The Senior Premier Breeder Award is given to the adult or farm with the top point total.

• The Junior Premier Breeder Award is given to the junior member with the top point total, regardless of the number exhibited. *Computed the same as the National Hereford Open Shows.

4. Premier Exhibitor • Award points are computed from winnings in breeding animal classes: » 5 points for 1st » 4 points for 2nd » 3 points for 3rd » 2 points for 4th » 1 point for 5th place.

• Points are given only for individual classes; no points for champions or groups.

• The Premier Exhibitor Award is given to the junior with the top point total, regardless of the number exhibited. *Computed the same as the National Hereford Open Shows.

GENERAL RULES 1. Exhibitors must be 7 years old and not yet 22 years old by January 1, 2024, and a current member of the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA). When entering contests be sure to use your age as of January 1 of the current year.

2. Junior memberships are $15 and must be paid prior to entry. Dues may be paid via MyHerd.org and membership forms may be completed online through hereford.org/youth.

3. All animals must be registered with the AHA.

4. Each entry, except in the bred-and-owned bull show must be owned solely by the junior exhibitor(s) and in his/her recorded ownership before June 1. Siblings may jointly own animals, provided all are current members of the NJHA and meet JNHE age requirements. No animal is eligible to compete if recorded in joint ownership (other than the sibling rule and bred and owned bull rule), and no joint ownership with farm name or family name.

5. Scurs, if present, must be loose and not firmly attached to the head; they must not be removed or tampered with.

6. Original registration certificate must be presented at check-in.

7. All animals must be tattooed and will be checked unless the original registration paper has been stamped VERIFIED by an AHA staff member.

8. Tattoos that are missing, illegible, altered, incorrect and/or in any other way disagree with the official AHA records will be justifiable cause for disqualification of entry. CHECK TATTOOS WELL BEFORE LEAVING FOR THE JNHE. 9. Entries must meet Nebraska health regulations. All animals must have an official health certificate. Refer to the health requirements available at JNHE Resources.

10. Exhibitor must show his/her own animals. Only exhibitors who are in attendance at the JNHE and are physically unable to show the animals due to illness or injury will be excused.

• In the case of extenuating circumstances, the family must come to the NJHA board and AHA Youth Director, in which case, the board of directors and AHA Youth Director have sole discretion as to whether the animal may be shown by a substitute showman.

• Owner may secure another junior member to show his/ her animals if excused or if exhibitor has more than one entry in the same class.

• It is recommended that if you have more than one animal being shown in a class you utilize a fellow junior from your own state to assist.

• No adult may assist a junior member or be allowed in the showring at any time.

11. Exhibitor must wear official show shirt in both showmanship and in the entire cattle show along with entry numbers on chest and back.

12. Exhibitor must follow AHA fitting rules as stated in the official Show Rules and Classifications of the AHA. 13. State herdsmanship (neatness, decoration, workmanship and cooperation) will be judged.

14. If all requirements are not met, the NJHA Board and Youth Director reserve the right to disqualify any entry.

15. All persons making entries in the show shall agree to abide by all the rules and regulations as outlined and will not hold the AHA or the JNHE organizers responsible for accident, loss or injury to any person, animal or article.

16. No farm signs or videos may be displayed at the stalls. Family signs may be displayed if junior exhibitor(s) names are included.

17. The following showmanship divisions will be offered: peewee, junior, intermediate and senior.

18. All showmanship and judging contestants must pre-enter by JUNE 1. There will be no entries accepted at the show. The entry fee is $5 per contest.

19. Breeding cattle will not be weighed or measured.

20. The most current EPDs will be used. EPDs for all cattle will be provided to the judge for him/her to use at their discretion.

21. Junior members will only have EPDs if they are compliant with Whole Herd TPR or purchased an animal from a Whole Herd TPR breeder. It is the exhibitor’s responsibility to call the AHA customer service department and fix compliancy issues if they arise.

22. Due to the Grand Island Livestock Authority Complex regulations and safety of exhibitors, NO DOGS will be allowed on the grounds, in the tie outs, in the barns or in Five Points Bank Arena with the exception of service animals with proper identification.

23. Any animal a junior enters may be used in the team-fitting competition and/or be asked to be used in the judging contest.

24. At the JNHE, the exhibitor of any animal that wins competition shall, promptly after the announcement that such animal has won such competition, permit the Association to secure a DNA sample from such animal. Please see Rule 4 of Section VII of the Association rules and regulations for how DNA testing is handled.

25. It is a policy of the NJHA board of directors that if an animal gets loose in the showring, an exhibitor will be given two chances to regain control of said animal throughout the duration of that particular show. After the third instance, exhibitor and animal will be dismissed from the showring by an NJHA board member or AHA staff member 26. Only Junior National Hereford Expo exhibitors are allowed to show animals in the showring. This includes ALL special classes.

27. No aerosol cans are allowed in the make-ready area or the showring.

CONDUCT The JNHE is a family event. Any false representation, interference, or unsportsmanlike conduct on the part of any attendee will be dealt with by AHA staff according to the equities of the case. If any attendee interferes in any way with the judges or shows disrespect to them, or to the show, the JNHE may withhold any awards or take any other steps deemed desirable.

2023-2024 | BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN

Tar Tut Faribault, Minn. tartut@outlook.com 507-491-3493

VICE CHAIRMAN

Wesley Denton Blue Rapids, Kan. wesley@dentondesigns.net 785-336-4155 FUNDRAISING CHAIR

Haley Mouser Tenstrike, Minn. msfherefords@gmail.com 218-368-0745

MEMBERSHIP CHAIR

Logan McFatridge Otterbein, Ind. lrmcfatridge@gmail.com 765-769-6660

DIRECTOR

Kaylee McInvale Cumby, Texas kayleemcinvale@gmail.com 903-336-8121

DIRECTOR

Isaac Rhode Stewartsville, Mo. isaacrhode25@gmail.com 816-387-3405

DIRECTOR

Lauren Gatz Fairview, Kan. lauren03g@gmail.com 785-285-0617

30

THE ADVANTAGE

DIRECTOR

Salem Sifford Goldvein, Va. ssifford366@gmail.com 336-266-0194

COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR

Lauren Jones Darlington, Wis. ljherefords15@gmail.com 608-482-3525 LEADERSHIP CHAIR

Hannah Pearson Oconto, Neb. hjpearson001@gmail.com 308-870-3805 DIRECTOR

Sam Birdsall Torrington, Wyo. birdsall.sam04@gmail.com 607-423-8915 DIRECTOR

Harlee Watson Flemingsburg, Ky. harleewatson1@gmail.com 606-748-3669

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