Calf scours are not inevitable. A strong prevention progr am is non - negotiable. Dependable scour prevention is essential for calf welfare, employee morale and business profitabilit y. The immune s y s te m’s r e s p o n s e to v a c cinati o n is v ar iab l e and unpredictable. That’s why giving preformed an tib o di e s in s te a d of re l y in g o n a v a c cin e to s tim ulate an tib o d y pr o
an t I’m all for removing uncertainties. So yes, I stand by this product (And no, I’m not.)
This Steer is being re-implanted right now
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: No withdrawal period is required when used according to labeling. Do not use in calves to be processed for veal. A withdrawal period has not been established for this product in pre-ruminating calves. Do not use in lactating dairy cows or in animals intended for subsequent breeding. Use in these cattle may cause drug residues in milk and/or in calves born to these cows. Administer implant subcutaneously in the ear only. Any other location is in violation of Federal Law. Do not attempt salvage of implanted site for human or animal food. For complete information, refer to product labels.
18 Cattle Industry Convention
Experience each day of 2023 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Tradeshow, plus get updates on Illinois members and how they are getting involved at a national level.
22 CattleFax Outlook
Session II of Cattle Industry Convention was the annual CattleFax Outlook Seminar. Make sure you know what trends to look for in the coming year regarding weather, supply and demand, exports and more.
24 Unique Considerations in Farm Equipment Leases
While farm equipment leases may seem to be a simple concept, in practice they are far more complex. This article discusses six critical issues that a properly drafted farm equipment lease agreement should address.
20 NCBA Policy Priorities
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association has released their 2023 policy priorities following the 2023 Cattle Industry convention. Make sure you are up to date on the biggest issues facing the beef industry in Washington D.C.
26 Lineage of a Legacy
The name Gene Bergschneider is a recognizable one from 2022, and especially is a name recognizable around the New Berlin area of Illinois. Whether it is Hereford cattle or basketball, this cattleman has given a lot to his community
30 Illinois Beef Expo
With record turn-out and two new sales, Illinois Beef Expo proved to be one for the books. Here you will find sale recaps, junior show results and final contest standings. See you in 2024!
50 Journeys to the Top
Claire Dorsey and Sophie Trainor each have unique stories about how they made it to the top of this year’s IJBA Points Show Program. They do have one thing in common, however, the drive it takes to get there.
Parker Lewis of Salem, Illinois, with his shorthorn steer entry at Illinois Beef Expo. Taken by Devin Bollman.
It sure is great to be raising beef cattle in Illinois. There is always so much going on about all things beef. WOW. I am an advocate for having a positive mental attitude, but that sounds a little like political rhetoric – maybe I have been going to too many meetings. Anyway, we did just complete another great Illinois Beef Expo.
Hats off to the expo committee and their numerous volunteers for accomplishing this extraordinary task. It is unique to find volunteers who spend so much of their time over the course of four days to make things run so smoothly. Some 820 paid cattle entries and 787 cattle entered the show rings on Saturday and Sunday. Illinois exhibitors have taken the quality of show cattle to an ultimate high level and the showmanship skills of our junior showmen and women are at an all-time high. Congratulations to all Illinois parents for a job well done. The Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale averaged $4,439.80 on 49 high quality bulls – as uniform a set of bulls as I have seen in attending some 43 of these sales over the years. The Multi-Breed Female Sale was most successful, averaging $5,438.71 on 29 lots.
Congratulations to Sale Manager Ryan Haefner for accomplishing what many thought could not be done. Excellent job Ryan. Breeders consigned excellent lots to the Collection Sale due to the management efforts of sale coordinator Kevin Mears. We will find a more suitable time for this sale next year. Speaking of next year, the IBA and the IBE Committee have heard your suggestions for improvements. We have a couple of options for positive changes to consider for Illinois Beef Expo 2024. The 2024 format will be new and improved, as the saying goes. Change in increments can be good.
In January, Vice President Duzan and I along with several current and past IBA directors, and an enthusiastic crowd, attended the second Cattlemen Connect seminar held at John Wood Community College. Dr. Allison Meyer of the University of Missouri and University of Illinois’ Dr. Dan Shike provided excellent presentations regarding Nutrition Restriction and Beef Cow-Calf Production – a study partially funded by the IBA Checkoff – and Winter Feeding of Beef Cows. I continue to be impressed by how successful the young people I watched grow-up have become. I remember judging Allison when she was on a Collegiate Academic Quadrathlon team at the Midwestern Animal Science Meetings and Dan at several local beef shows.
Dr. Shike has the unique ability to interpret scientific information in layman terms that make it easy to understand and to apply. There will be more Cattlemen Connect meetings during 2023 and 2024. Prioritize your time to attend one or more. You will not be disappointed.
Since December, IBA EVP Josh St. Peters, IBA VP Dave Duzan and I have attended several affiliate annual meetings. These meetings have been great and are the true grassroots of the IBA. If you would like one or more of us to attend your local meeting, just contact us. We will enjoy attending. On January 28, St. Peters attended the Adams County Cattlemen’s annual meeting and banquet while IBA At Large Director Jake Fidler and I went to the Knox
County Cattlemen’s Annual Meeting/Banquet. Margaret and I really enjoyed the fellowship provided by the Knox County folks. It makes for a great evening. We got to visit with retired Representative Donald Moffitt and current Representative Norine Hammond, Representative Dan Swanson and State Senator Neil Anderson – all great friends of agriculture in Springfield. I continue to be amazed by all the beef activities our affiliates conduct over the course of a year and Knox County Cattlemen’s Association is one of the active affiliates. Job well done. On February 18, Tri-County Cattlemen’s Association held their annual banquet. This is always a blow-out, must-attend event. Congratulations and thank you to the Tri-County leaders for all you do. Kevin Ochsner, NCBA’s Cattlemen To Cattlemen host on RFD-TV, was the evening’s guest speaker. His informative presentation was entertaining. Needless to say, he hit a homerun. One of the things I noticed at these two events was the increased number of younger families. It is great to see a mix of older and younger members at our association events – it means our association/industry has a continuing future.
I also had the opportunity to briefly speak before the Simmental, Shorthorn, and Hereford annual banquets this winter which I greatly enjoyed. The opportunity to share what the IBA is doing daily for our beef cattle industry in Illinois is important to the IBA. Continuing to have a close relationship with all Illinois beef associations is at the heart of our mutual successes. If your breed association needs a centralized meeting space for a medium size banquet or a room for a board meeting, the IBA office can now
accommodate your needs. When in Springfield, stop in for a visit. The IBA office is developing an excellent collection of historic beef industry pictures and breed recognition plaques. Contact the office to make sure your breed association recognition plaques are on the wall.
Early February found IBA staff, leadership and fellow Illinois cattle producers in New Orleans for the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Trade Show. As always, the meetings and trade show were informative. Illinois has an active leadership role within the NCBA and the Cattlemen’s Beef Board. Josh serves as one of six affiliate executives elected to the Federation Advisory Council that advises the NCBA and the CBB. Al Lyman is a member of the NCBA Beef Promotion Operating Committee.
IBA District 1 Policy Director Justin Rahn just finished a term on the CBB and I am starting a three-year term on the CBB in April. Historically, Illinois always has played a role in national leadership, providing two past NCBA Presidents and three past Regional Vice Presidents.
Vice President David Duzan was interviewed for an article in FarmWeek. It is good IBA leadership is recognized as a viable resource for all things beef. Did you read the article titled “The Power of Farming” authored by Sawyer Schlipf, a recent graduate of the Illinois Junior Beef Association, that was published in FarmWeek? Great article Sawyer – young cattle breeders like you demonstrate the talent residing in our future industry. Yes, the cup truly is half full and filling. Doc
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Executive Edge
Josh St. Peters, Illinois Beef Association Executive Vice President
One of the many perks of this job as your association executive comes in the form of our community of people across the Illinois beef industry. I say it all the time, and truly mean it, I do get to work for the best people in all of agriculture. You and your families represent our organization and our industry very well, especially when we all come together at statewide events and activities. We’re fresh off the heels of Illinois Beef Expo, and it was a big one. We had thousands of people pass through Springfield and across the Illinois State Fairgrounds for this year’s event, and I greatly enjoyed the chance to catch up with so many of you at the Expo. I had the chance to see families working together to help one another during our junior shows, and we had dozens of teachers, parents and volunteers that turned out on Friday to get teams of kids through the skillathon and judging contests. And hundreds of producers turned out throughout the entire Expo for the sales, tradeshow, and breed association meetings. Thank you to everyone who made the event possible again this year!
I want to give some space to a letter recently written by IBA President Dr. Paul Walker, about the importance of advocating on behalf of our industry. The legislative work we’re doing on your behalf in Springfield is critically important to livestock production, and the political reality of our state today means that this workload isn’t likely to lighten up any time soon. I cannot say enough thanks or convey enough appreciation for those of you who have been investing in our advocacy committee or have provided your time or even opened your doors for tours with elected officials. All this outreach is critical to our continued success in engaging with public officials from all corners of the state. I think Dr. Walker highlights some critical considerations about the makeup of our state today, and why your continued involvement in IBA is as critical as it has ever been.
Thanks for being members and supporting the causes of Illinois Beef Association. We’re here to support you and your family, so please don’t hesitate to call or e-mail if the association’s staff or leadership can be of assistance.
The Power and Influence of Your Membership in Springfield
Written by Dr. Paul Walker, IBA President
In a meeting not long ago, Jerry Costello, director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, stated that on a clear day 67% of Illinois’ citizens can see the Willis Tower in downtown Chicago. Said another way, two-thirds of the representatives in the Illinois General Assembly reside in the City of Chicago or in one of the five collar counties. Cook County and the five collar counties (Will, DuPage,
Lake, McHenry, Kane) have a population of nearly eight and a half million people. The other 96 counties in Illinois have a population of just over four million people, according to 2022 data. This matters when it comes to policy and governance in our state.
Of the 117 members of the Illinois House of Representatives, democrats have a super majority with 77 members, and of the 59 members of the Illinois State Senate, democrats also have a super majority with 40 members. This means that democrats can pass legislation without republican support, but republicans cannot pass nor block legislation without some democrat support.
Among the 176 members of our General Assembly, the vast majority are generations removed from any kind of farm experience, and many don’t even have a clear understanding of modern agriculture in Illinois. Today, farmers make up approximately 1% of the U.S. population. There are 16,000+ farms producing cattle in Illinois. Of these producers only about 1 in 5 were IBA members in 2022, and that number was up several hundred members over 2021 membership. These are the facts. Why are these facts important and how do they affect us?
Urban and rural legislators with no farm experience require education about agriculture and lots of it. Personal, one-on-one communication between cattle producers and legislators is our most effective outreach tool. Attendance at legislative and campaign events and participation in local meetings are important, as are monetary contributions to campaign funds like our Illinois Beef Political Action Committee. It takes money to build beneficial relationships with our legislators. That is why IBA membership dues and PAC donations are so important. These are our only source of funds to educate our legislators to provide influence in Springfield and to hire effective lobbyists to work on behalf of the industry’s best interests. Remember, your Check-off dollars cannot be spent on political activities.
Accordingly, we cite this example: this year, as the new General Assembly converged upon Springfield, thousands of bills were introduced across a very broad range of economic, social, and political topics. Of the hundreds of bills pertaining to food and agriculture topics, at least a dozen had potential impacts on your livestock operations. And of those, three specific bills could have had serious negative consequences for beef cattle producers in Illinois if IBA did not have an effective Executive Vice President, a talented lobbyist and dedicated producer leadership. This “beef legislative team” provided important leadership in engaging with the sponsoring legislator, to diffuse the threat of these
three proposed bills from moving through the legislative process. Without intervention and engagement on behalf of livestock producers, these bills could have stopped access to critical animal health products, would have created public government databases of livestock operations, and they would have prevented future expansion or construction of new cattle facilities in potentially every county of the state. While these three bills have been managed for now, if we are not vigilant, they or others like them will likely be brought forward in the future.
The kind of work done by your “beef legislative team” requires time, effort, and continuous dedication. This diligence comes at a cost. Money is required to: 1) hire effective lobbyists and staff, 2) support political candidates who encourage a vibrant Illinois beef cattle industry and 3) educate public officials about the value of a strong Illinois livestock industry.
Have you considered contributing to the IBA PAC? It is easy to do. It is important for your family beef cattle operation.
Have you renewed your IBA membership dues? The IBA is slowly growing in membership but an organization with political clout has a large voting membership. The greater the number of members the greater is IBA’s political capital. People vote, numbers matter, and politicians listen to viable voting blocks. Renew your membership today. An active, informative IBA voice within the Capitol in Springfield is an important component for our industry, our livelihood, our way-of-life.
HUMANE CASTRATION TOOLS
Tom Hendrix Wray, Colorado
Extension Update
Travis Meteer, University of Illinois Extension Beef Specialist
Early Spring Grazing Management Sets The Stage For Entire Season
Winter feed stores are dwindling and the urge to get cows to grass is escalating. Turning cows out on immature forages can have consequences. The biggest challenge is to avoid permanent damage by overgrazing. If forages are overgrazed early, permanent damage of the stand is likely. Delaying turn-out until forages have reached eight inches in height is recommended. Even more important is rotating cows through pastures to maintain four or more inches of stubble height and giving the plants a rest period. In early spring, rotation should occur more frequently to keep up with faster growth and then slow as summer approaches.
Grass tetany is another concern with spring grass. This immature grass is very high in moisture and low in mineral content and dry matter (DM). Grass tetany is deficiency of magnesium (Mg), this is why a “high-Mg” mineral is recommended. Start feeding the mineral 2-3 weeks before turnout. It is important to feed a high Mg mineral and check that Ca levels are adequate too. After you have the right mineral, they must consume it. If cattle are not consuming mineral at 3-4 oz. per head per day, the feeder should be moved more in line with daily travel and closer to the water source. If this fails to increase consumption, then direct feeding the mineral with a grain or co-product supplement is needed. Results of grass tetany to the cow can be dramatic: stumbling, staggering, muscle twitching and possible death. All within a very short amount of time.
The next problem is meeting nutrient requirements of cows out on spring grass. Because spring grass is lush, high in protein, and high in water content, it becomes hard to supply adequate nutrition. Mature cow size and milk production have increased in the beef cow population. This means that in some cases, cows cannot physically eat enough grass to meet dry matter and nutrient requirements. Research at the University of Illinois, shows that cows will rarely consume over 100-120 lbs. of any feed due to fill and capacity of the rumen. However, a 1400 lb. cow will require 120-150 lbs of spring grass to meet requirement. In some cases when, grass is very immature and wet (<20% DM) the intake would need to be even higher. This means it is likely best for cow performance to intervene with a mild supplement level.
Producers can supplement cows with a dry feed that supplies ample energy. Protein is not the focus and needs to be limited in the supplement. Some options for supplement would be soyhull pellets, grass hay, cornstalk bales, or corn. A combination of these feedstuffs will provide DM to slow passage rate and energy to balance out the high protein forage. Research conducted at the Orr Beef Research Center has shown a 7-15% improvement in Artificial Insemination conception rates when cows were supplemented on lush, spring forage. Cows calving from Feb. 1st to March 15th will be the best candidates for supplement because their breeding season overlaps the period of the lushest forage.
Low feed reserves may have many producers anxious to bale pastures. Remember, each ton of hay removed has approximately 40 lb of nitrogen, 20 lb of phosphate, and 50 lb of potash. This removal of nutrients for hay can decrease future productivity of the pasture if not replaced. Many times hay is not fed in the location it was removed from, thus nutrients are not replaced. Grazing will allow nearly 90% of the nutrients to remain on that pasture. Consider options to stockpile forage for fall and early winter besides harvesting hay.
Transition cows moving to pasture with a dry, low protein supplement. Match your cow size, milk production, and calving season with your forages. Managing forages correctly this spring can reduce dependency on purchased feeds and bring feed costs down for the remainder of the year. Controlling feed costs is the key to profitability in the cow/calf business. Grazing is the cheapest way to feed a cow and early grazing season pasture management is crucial to keeping costs down.
Gate Cuts
Paul Walker, Professor Emeritus, DI Walker Consulting
First, as a reminder, all steroid ear implants used for beef cattle production are considered drugs and, therefore, are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Second, back in August 2020 the FDA first released Guidance for Industry #192 that related to label claims for implants. Then in May of 2021 the FDA provided a letter to inform the cattle industry that implant labels would be under review and in December 2021 the FDA issued another letter of clarification. In other words, GFI #191 has been in the works for some time. Guidance #191 states that 1) beginning in
June 2023 implants that are not expressly labeled for reimplantation will not be able to be placed in cattle more than once per production setting, 2) in addition, the FDA has defined production settings in such a way that there are only three separate settings, or phases, that permit implants in a calf life cycle and 3) if cattle are not deemed as being in one of these phases reimplantation will not be permitted. However, as cattle move into another production phase, they may be given another implant labeled appropriate to that production phase. The three production phases or settings identified by the FDA are suckling calf phase, growing beef steers/ heifers on pasture phase and growing beef steers/heifers in confinement fed for harvest phase. The redefinition/ clarification of the production phases has led to the upcoming potential changes to implant strategies.
This extended timeline for GFI #191 implementation has provided time for implant manufacturers to change or to update labels for implants. Historically, there have been implants that carry reimplant labels that will not greatly impact their use, implants whose labels restrict reimplantation and implants whose labels carry no claims relative to reimplantation. Most implant manufacturers have updated their implant labels or have submitted and obtained a supplement” New Animal Drug Application” for a label change. All producers utilizing implants are encouraged to visit with their implant sales representative or implant manufacturer to determine what, if any, effect GFI #191 may have on their choice and use of implant strategy.
Steroid based implants have been used in beef cattle production for over 50 years. Implants, in numerous studies, have been proven safe and effective technology that has helped the industry reduce its carbon footprint in an economical way. Implants increase average daily gain 10-15% and improve feed efficiency 8-12% compared to cattle not implanted. Cattle performance varies according to implant selected and implant strategy utilized. Some implants are more aggressive regarding their efficacy. Implants that include both estradiol and trenbolone increase ADG, improve FE more and may lower quality grade about one-third of a score. Therefore, implant strategy – choice of implant and the number of times cattle are implanted – may depend on the type of cattle fed – frame score, maturity curve, length of feeding period, desired carcass quality endpoint at harvest, energy level of the diet, etc. During my tenure at ISU we banded all bull calves within 48 hours of birth and implanted them with Ralgro® at the same time. At approximately 120 days of age we reimplanted the steer calves and implanted the heifers with Ralgro® for the first
Table 1. Selected Implants approved for use in beef cattle.
time. Research has demonstrated that if heifers are implanted after 30-35 days of age fertility will not be negatively affected. Some implants, not all, have label clearance for use in heifer claves pre-weaning. Following weaning the steers at ISU were implanted with an aggressive implant and were usually harvested around 1,300 lbs. at 14 months of age. These calves were on an accelerated feeding program from birth to harvest – creep fed and high energy diet post weaning.
Side effects from using implants are rare and of little economic significance. Some negative side effects such as raised tailheads, udder development, bulling and vaginal and rectal prolapses have been cited as reasons not to use implants. These conditions are rare and usually occur when improper implanting techniques are used such as crushing an implant during administration, implanting multiple implants at one time or reimplanting too soon – not according to label directions.
There is no such thing as “hormonefree” beef or any other meat, as all meat products contain hormones. Hormones are produced by all humans and animals for normal body functioning and maturation.
Table 2. Approved implants by sex and production phase.
Ralgro Magnum®
Synovex-C®
Synovex-S®
Synovex-H®
Synovex-Plus®
Synovex-Choice®
Revalor-G®
Revalor-S®
Revalor-H®
Revalor-IS®
Revalor-IH®
Revalor-200®
Finaplix-H®
Encore®
Component E-C®
The hormones used in beef cattle implants include three naturally occurring hormones: estradiol, progesterone and testosterone, and two synthetic hormones: zeranol and trenbolone acetate. Zeranol mimics estradiol and trenbolone acetate mimics testosterone. All of these have been used without any effects on public health for many years. A 3-ounce serving of beef from an implanted steer has 1.9 nanograms of estradiol and a 3-ounce serving of beef from a non-implanted calf has 1.3 nanograms. In terms of weight there are 28 billion nanograms in 1 ounce; therefore, the difference in estradiol between implanted and non-implanted beef is extremely minuscule.
Table 3 shows the nanograms of estrogenic activity in one pound of common foods. Other foods eaten every day have much greater amounts of estrogen than does beef.
Table 4 shows the daily production of estrogen in humans and the amount in implanted beef. The amount of estrogen consumed from eating beef is minuscule compared to what we produce in our bodies every day. The FDA has concluded that the estradiol content in implanted beef is insignificant and of no safety risk. In addition, the FDA requires no minimum implant period for implants prior to harvest.
Utilizing implants is a technology cattle producers can not afford to skip. Using an approved product and administering it according to label directions can improve return at all stages of production. To comply with FDA, GFI #191 visit with your implant supplier as implant strategy may have changed for the future. Keep an upbeat attitude as life is easy. Doc
Table 3. Estrogen activity of common foods.
Table 4. Estrogen produced, nanograms per day.
Affiliate News
Heartland Beef Alliance held a beef cattle artificial insemination refresher program on January 11 at Lincoln Community High School. Nearly 30 affiliate members attended the event to hear from Dr. Teresa Steckler, University of Illinois Beef and Commercial Extension Educator. Dr. Steckler discussed synchronization protocols and proper AI techniques. Members were also offered a hands-on AI demonstration with beef reproductive tracts and a cow simulator model owned by Lincoln Community High School. Attendees went home with several door prizes that were generously donated by Hopedale Agri Center, Green Prairie Veterinary Clinic and Timbercrest Veterinary Services.
Knox County Cattlemen’s Association hosted its annual meeting and banquet on January 28 in Galesburg. There were nearly 200 people in attendance - the biggest turnout to date! Dr. Kim Stevens with Stevens Veterinary Service presented a refresher on dos and don’ts when it comes to calving season. Dr. Paul Walker, President of IBA updated attendees on the Association’s work. Jake Fidler with Fairview Sale Barn spoke to current beef markets and futures. Also in attendance were Representative Dan Swanson, Representative Norine Hammond and Senator Neil Anderson. Representative Swanson spoke about matters being discussed in the capitol. Plaques were presented to three retiring directors and nominations were made for the 2023 board of directors. Scholarships were presented to six deserving applicants. To conclude the evening both a silent and live auction were held.
Adams County Beef Producers hosted its annual meeting on Saturday, January 28, with over 250 members and guests gathering in Liberty. During the event IBAs Executive Vice President Josh St. Peters gave a legislative update from Springfield and shared state association news. Beau Shaffer was named the 2023 Beef Ambassador and Andrea Schaffnie was crowned Beef Queen. A record night for the Schaffnie family, patriarch Kenny Schaffnie was recognized as the Adams County Producer of the Year. Finally, 4-H beef champions were awarded monies for
Dr. Teresa Steckler discusses AI techniques before hands-on activities.
Betsy Pech helps Lincoln Community High School student.
Almost 200 Knox County cattlemen and women, and others. Scholarship winners left to right: Tanner Klockenga, Alexandra Cain, Jack Link, Clara Kuelper, Emma Seiboldt and Anna Webel.
their success at the summer 4-H fair. Save the date for the 2023 Adams County Beef Bonanza on Saturday, March 25, 2023.
Tri-County Cattlemen’s held their banquet at the Western Illinois University Student Union on February 18, garnering 400 cattlemen and women. During the program, seven deserving applicants were awarded scholarships. Scott Boyer was awarded the 2023 Beef Backer Award. Scott Boyer has been a long-time supporter of the TriCounty Cattleman affiliate program and has helped many young cattle producers get their start. Keynote speaker, Kevin Ochsner, spoke about cattle market futures and the changes producers will likely face in the wake of a changing industry. Technology, personal motivators and continual improvement were a few places of focus. IBA President Dr. Paul Walker also gave a state association update.
Contact Annie Schoetmer if you have any affiliate news, would like to get involved in your local affiliate or have questions about affiliate grant inquiries at annie@illinoisbeef.com or 217-787-4280.
2023 Beef Backer Award Winner Scott Boyer
Scholarship winners left to right: Sarah Riggins, Rachel Hood, Jacob Ford, Emma Coursey, Dexter Ricketts, Brynn Johnson and Anna Curley.
In the Know
Illinois Producers Gather in Baylis for Cattlemen Connect Education Series
On January 19, western Illinois cattlemen and women gathered at the John Wood Community College Agriculture Education Center to hear from nutrition experts about improving programs on their cow-calf operations. The first presentation was given by Dr. Allison Meyer regarding the effects of nutrient restriction. After, University of Illinois’ Dr. Dan Shike explained winter feeding in terms of managing costs and meeting maintenance requirements.
IBA Leaders Gather with Illinois Officials
On February 15, IBA and its fellow commodity organizations hosted the Ag and Conservation Legislative Reception at the Illinois State Capitol. Pictured left to right: IBA President Dr. Paul Walker with Natalie Phelps Finnie, director of Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Jerry Costello, director of Illinois Department of Agriculture and IBA Vice President Dave Duzan.
New Beef Tour for High School/College Aged Illinois Juniors Coming Summer 2023
This summer, the Illinois Beef Association will be kicking off a new junior program offering. While Edge Conference will continue, a new program for older juniors will be available as a multi-day tour across Illinois. Keep your eyes peeled for more information in the months ahead.
Class of 2023 Leadership Academy Meets at Raber Packing Co.
The third in-person event for leadership academy participants was based in Peoria, Illinois, on February 11. Buddy Courdt, owner and operator of Raber Packing Co. gave a tour of their facilities and meat market, then shared how the company came to be and how it surrived the 2018 fire that forced them to rebuild Raber Packing Co. into what it is today. A presentation was also given by Derick Stayton from Farm Credit regarding options for young farmers including loan structures, beginning farmer programs and opportunities and other available resources.
Illinois
Illinois Beef Association Members Jazzed after 2023 Cattle Industry Convention
What happens when cattlemen and women gather in the Big Easy? The good times roll! Illinois Beef Association members and staff left their mark in New Orleans at the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show held February 1-3. Industry members and cattle producers alike enjoyed encouraging sessions, attended policy meetings, learned about what is to come for cattle industry members and gained understanding about today’s beef consumers.
Notable Illinois news related to Cattle Industry Convention include Justin Rahn completing his term on Cattlemen’s Beef Board. He spent three years on the board representing the ideals of cattlemen and women in the approval of Checkoff-funded programs. Newly appointed to the board, IBA President Dr. Paul Walker will begin his term on the CBB in April.
Henry county’s Al Lyman was re-elected for another year to the NCBA Beef Promotion Operating Committee, elected by the Federation of State Beef Council’s Board of Directors and responsible for developing the annual Beef Checkoff budget.
Opening day of convention included policy committee meetings and the opening general session. The meetings were attended by IBA board members and staff to ensure Illinois
producers were represented.
The opening general session began as a jazz band made its way to the stage with 2022 NCBA President Don Schiefelbein, 2021 American National Cattlewomen President Reba Mazak and 2022 Chair of Cattlemen’s Beef Board, Norman Voyles.
“If this nation sticks together, if this association sticks together, if this family sticks together nothing can stop us,” said Schiefelbein during the session.
Taylor Sheridan, writer of the hit series Yellowstone, called in to give his perspective on the importance of informing the public about the cattle industry, one of his biggest goals when writing the show. “The thing that I try to do on Yellowstone is educate people,” said Sheridan. “I’m gonna make it cool to be cowboy.”
Visitors also received a visit from former New Orleans Saints quarterback Archie Manning. Manning detailed pieces of his life story while also sharing some of the lessons he has learned along the way.
The first evening concluded with the Environmental Stewardship Award Reception and the NCBA-PAC Reception and Live Auction, held each year to continue advocating for cattle producers in Washington D.C. and elsewhere.
Day two began with the second general session –
Photo Courtesy of NCBA.
CattleFax 2023 U.S. & Global Protein & Grain Outlook Seminar. A few weather-related takeaways from this session include that La Nina has been fading since 2020, but it may still take a few seasons to reach El Nino weather, and we should expect cooler temps here in the corn belt this spring with summer being drier than average for Illinois. “We’re about to slam the door on La Nina,” said meteorologist Matt Makens. By fall it is expected to be wetter than average as El Nino takes effect.
Economically, there is a “caution flag” raised regarding the current demand of beef though CattleFax analysts do not feel a need to raise a “warning flag,” but if gas prices stay high so will tallow. Hay stocks are at the smallest level since the 50s. Hay prices are expected to decrease during the second half of this year, which is good news for cow-calf producers.
Supply and demand outlooks were also given, noting the decrease in number of head of cattle since 2019 by 5.5 million and continuance of decline in 2023. Still, U.S beef production is coming out of 2022 with records. It is important to note the U.S. has the most efficient and sustainable beef production industry. For that reason, the exporting of beef is at a record tonnage and domestic demand is still historically strong. From CattleFax’s perspective bred cow and fed steer values are extremely close, making it the prime time for developing bred stock. Long term outlooks include that cow-calf producers should find ways to be more profitable overall and sustainability for all cattle producers should include social and economic practices, not just environmental ones.
throughout the day on Thursday with the night culminating in “The Secret Cow.” This special event was sponsored by Central Life Sciences and themed to a 1920s speakeasy with both jazz and country music, and dancing, with New Orleans themed food and, of course, great company.
The final day of the convention began with the third general session – Beef Business in Washington D.C. – led by NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. He introduced USDA Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Jewel Bronaugh as the first speaker, who he then sat down with for a few questions and discussion of the cattle industry’s role in the national economy. USDA staff then gave a risk management agency informational presentation that included a panel. The purpose was to inform producers of options and programs available for them within USDA. The session concluded with a traceability panel where 2023 NCBA President Todd Wilkinson voiced the importance of beginning to adapt electronic traceability across the country. “Engage right now with your state veterinarian and your state departments of agriculture,” said Nevada Director of Agriculture Dr. J.J. Goicoechea, who was also part of the panel. Illinois producers should note they now have free access to electronic identification through the Illinois Department of Agriculture.
“It is imperative the industry continue to embrace new technology, robotics and artificial intelligence as we look for answers in the future,” said CattleFax President Pono VonHolt. Continue to page 22 for a more detailed description of the CattleFax Forecast.
Both policy and Checkoff committee meetings were held
The closing general session featured Chris Koch. Though born without arms and legs, Koch has made a life for himself and pursues the things he enjoys. His childhood on his own family farm gave him edge over this audience regarding how he was able to overcome obstacles to contribute to his family’s business.
After an invigorating few days, fellow Illinoisians danced the night away at the final event on Friday night featuring Neal McCoy and Midland. Now, onward to Orlando for Cattle Convention 2024!
2023 NCBA President Todd Wilkinson
Photo Courtesy of NCBA.
NCBA Announces 2023 Policy Priorities
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s (NCBA) executive committee approved the organization’s policy priorities at the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show, with a focus on advancing animal disease preparedness, protecting voluntary conservation programs, and defending producers from regulatory overreach.
“Our focus is helping to create opportunity for America’s cattle producers and fighting to make sure the federal government does not damage our industry,” said NCBA President-Elect Todd Wilkinson. “Cattle producers have been caretakers of the land and livestock for decades and are committed to conserving this country’s natural resources while producing high-quality beef.
NCBA’s policy priorities include:
• Securing reauthorization of animal health provisions in the 2018 Farm Bill and advocating for expanded funding of the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank (NAVVCB) to protect against foot-and-mouth disease (FMD).
• Protecting and funding EQIP, CSP and other voluntary conservation programs that incentivize science-based, active management of natural resources.
• Protecting the cattle industry from regulatory attacks under Waters of the United States, the Endangered Species Act, emissions reporting and more.
“One of the biggest opportunities to help cattle producers in the coming year is passing the 2023 Farm Bill with continued investment in our national vaccine bank to protect the U.S. cattle herd from the threat of foot-and-mouth disease. Recently, we have seen other countries deal with the realities of animal disease outbreaks. American cattle producers are not going to be caught flat-footed – we are laser-focused on reducing risk and having the strongest response with a stockpile of vaccines that we have been building up since the 2018 Farm Bill,” Wilkinson said.
Nevada Director of Agriculture Dr. J.J. Goicoechea, NCBA Senior Director of Government Affairs Tanner Beymer, 2023 NCBA President Todd Wilkinson and NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane discuss NCBA policy priorities during the third general session and 2023 Cattle Convention.
Photo Courtesy of NCBA.
Photo Courtesy of NCBA.
2023 NCBA POLICY PRIORITIES
2023 NCBA POLICY PRIORITIES
NCBA’S POLICY FOCUS FOR 2023 IS TO CONTINUE STRENGTHENING THE U.S. CATTLE INDUSTRY’S PROFITABILITY, ANIMAL DISEASE PREPAREDNESS, THE ROLE OF PRODUCERS AS AMERICA’S ORIGINAL CONSERVATIONISTS, AND PUSHING BACK ON REGULATORY OVERREACH.
NCBA’S POLICY FOCUS FOR 2023 IS TO CONTINUE STRENGTHENING THE U.S. CATTLE INDUSTRY’S PROFITABILITY, ANIMAL DISEASE PREPAREDNESS, THE ROLE OF PRODUCERS AS AMERICA’S ORIGINAL CONSERVATIONISTS, AND PUSHING BACK ON REGULATORY OVERREACH.
ADVANCE NCBA’S FARM BILL PRIORITIES
ADVANCE
NCBA’S FARM
BILL PRIORITIES
•Secure reauthorization of the animal health provisions in the 2018 Farm Bill and advocate for expanded funding of the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank (NAVVCB) to protect against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).
•Secure reauthorization of the animal health provisions in the 2018 Farm Bill and advocate for expanded funding of the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank (NAVVCB) to protect against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).
•Expand accessibility and fund risk management programs and disaster relief programs within the Farm Bill, to support financial stability for producers.
•Expand accessibility and fund risk management programs and disaster relief programs within the Farm Bill, to support financial stability for producers.
•Protect and fund EQIP, CSP, and other voluntary conservation programs that incentivize sciencebased, active management of our natural resources.
•Protect and fund EQIP, CSP, and other voluntary conservation programs that incentivize sciencebased, active management of our natural resources.
•Defend against the addition of a livestock title.
•Defend against the addition of a livestock title.
DEFEND AGAINST POLICIES THAT HURT CATTLE PRODUCERS
DEFEND AGAINST POLICIES THAT HURT CATTLE PRODUCERS
•Preserve critical tax code provisions that promote a viable business climate and support future generations of family operations.
•Preserve critical tax code provisions that promote a viable business climate and support future generations of family operations.
•Implement our wins and push for further hours-ofservice/ELD flexibility for livestock haulers.
•Implement our wins and push for further hours-ofservice/ELD flexibility for livestock haulers.
•Protect working lands and guard against federal overreach that limits grazing rights.
•Protect working lands and guard against federal overreach that limits grazing rights.
•Protect the cattle industry from regulatory attacks under WOTUS, ESA, emissions reporting, and more.
•Protect the cattle industry from regulatory attacks under WOTUS, ESA, emissions reporting, and more.
•Engage in legal action to protect producers’ rights.
•Engage in legal action to protect producers’ rights.
DELIVER MORE WINS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR CATTLE PRODUCERS
DELIVER MORE WINS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR CATTLE PRODUCERS
•Secure full reauthorization for Livestock Mandatory Reporting (LMR).
•Secure full reauthorization for Livestock Mandatory Reporting (LMR).
•Ensure electronic identification (EID) requirements for traceability are implemented efficiently, and without costly burdens to producers.
•Ensure electronic identification (EID) requirements for traceability are implemented efficiently, and without costly burdens to producers.
•Level the playing field and fight for fair, accurate labels on fake meat products.
•Level the playing field and fight for fair, accurate labels on fake meat products.
•Build on record-breaking export sales by expanding market access through science-based, rules-based trade standards, and ensure equivalent animal health and food safety standards for imported beef.
•Build on record-breaking export sales by expanding market access through science-based, rules-based trade standards, and ensure equivalent animal health and food safety standards for imported beef.
•Work with USDA to implement reforms to the “Product of the USA” label that promote voluntary, verified, and trade-compliant labeling that returns more value to producers.
•Work with USDA to implement reforms to the “Product of the USA” label that promote voluntary, verified, and trade-compliant labeling that returns more value to producers.
•Advance animal health practices and innovations that are critical to the beef industry’s viability.
•Advance animal health practices and innovations that are critical to the beef industry’s viability.
•Support the congressional reauthorization of the Animal Drug User Fee Act at FDA (ADUFA 5) with no post-market amendments.
•Support the congressional reauthorization of the Animal Drug User Fee Act at FDA (ADUFA 5) with no post-market amendments.
•Advocate for Dietary Guidelines for Americans that keep beef at the center of the plate.
•Advocate for Dietary Guidelines for Americans that keep beef at the center of the plate.
•Promote the vital role of working lands in conservation efforts and keep grazers grazing on open, healthy public lands.
•Promote cattle grazing’s science-backed role as a climate solution.
•Promote the vital role of working lands in conservation efforts and keep grazers grazing on open, healthy public lands.
•Promote cattle grazing’s science-backed role as a climate solution.
NATIONAL CATTLEMEN’S BEEF ASSOCIATION 1275 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Suite 801 Washington, D.C. 20004 202.347.0228 | @BeefUSA
CattleFax Forecasts Producer Profitability in 2023 with Potential Drought Relief for the West
The popular CattleFax Outlook Seminar, held as part of the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show in New Orleans, shared expert market and weather analysis.
Prices and profitability will again favor cattle producers in 2023. The cattle industry is entering 2023 with the smallest cattle supply since 2015 as drought caused the industry to dig deeper into the supply of feeder cattle and calves. While the exact path to drought relief is unknown, improvements are also expected to translate to moderating feed costs, especially in the second half of 2023. Combined with increased cattle prices, cattle producers, especially the cow-calf operator, will continue to see an improvement in margins for the next several years, according to CattleFax.
Meteorologist Matt Makens said the latest forecast for La Niña has only a 14% probability of existence this spring and down further by the summer, which means a pattern change comes our way this year. A neutral phase will take control of the pattern as La Niña weakens and may last several months before giving El Niño a chance to grow this summer and into the fall.
Makens said putting this latest La Niña episode in the review mirror suggests improving drought conditions, more favorable growing seasons and healthier soils.
“I’m not trying to imply that doing away with La Niña fixes everything. An El Niño can cause drought across the northern states. There is no win-win for everyone in any weather pattern,” Makens added. “But moisture conditions should improve for the West in the second half of this year.”
Kevin Good, vice president of industry relations and analysis at CattleFax, reported that U.S. beef cow cattle inventories have already fallen 1.5 million head from cycle highs. The 2023 beef cow herd is expected to be down about another million head to nearly 29.2 million.
“Drought affected nearly half of the beef cow herd over the last year, exacerbating the liquidation in 2022. Drought improvement and higher cattle prices should drastically slow beef cow culling through 2023,” Good said.
Feeder cattle and calf supplies outside of feedyards will be 400,000 to 450,000 head smaller than 2022 at 25.1 million. After being full for most of the past three years, cattle on feed inventories are expected to begin 2023 at 300,000 to 400,000 head below last year, at 14.3 million head, and remain smaller. Commercial fed slaughter in 2023 is forecast to decline by 750,000 to 800,000 to 25.6 million head.
“With drought forced placement and culling, beef production was record large in 2022 at 28.3 billion pounds. Expect production to drop over the next several years –
Photo Courtesy of NCBA.
declining 4% to 5% in 2023 to 27 billion pounds,” Good said. “The decline in production in 2023 will lead to a 2.2-pound decline in net beef supply to 57 pounds per person.”
Good forecast the average 2023 fed steer price at $158/ cwt., up $13/cwt. from 2022, with a range of $150 to $172/ cwt. throughout the year. All cattle classes are expected to trade higher, and prices are expected to continue to trend upward. The 800-lb. steer price is expected to average $195/ cwt. with a range of $175 to $215/cwt., and the 550-lb. steer price is expected to average $225/cwt., with a range of $200 to $245/cwt. Finally, Good forecast utility cows at an average of $100/cwt. with a range of $75 to $115/cwt., and bred cows at an average of $2,100/cwt. with a range of $1,900 to $2,300 for load lots of quality, running-age cows.
When looking at domestic beef demand, the U.S. economy will be a driving factor going in 2023. CattleFax said inflation, rising interest rates and general economic uncertainty will continue to impact consumer purchasing decisions as many look to limit spending. Inflation reached a 40-year high in 2022, triggering the U.S. Federal Reserve to raise interest rates seven times last year with intentions for further rate increases until inflation falls. Through the Federal Reserve hopes to accomplish a “soft landing” and avoid recession, the U.S. economy is expected to slow in 2023 with most economists calling for a mild recession in the second half of the year.
Good noted that though beef demand has softened, it remains historically strong, and consumers have shown willingness to continue to buy beef in a new and higher range. He expects the 2023 USDA All-Fresh Retail Beef prices to average $7.35/pound, up 4 cents from 2022.
He also said wholesale demand will appear to be softer, as prices will not go up at the same rate of inflation despite tighter supplies. The cutout value should move higher to average $270/cwt. for 2023.
Global protein demand has continued to rise around the world and tighter global protein supplies should broadly support prices in 2023. After more than 20% of growth across the last two years, U.S. beef exports are expected to moderate, declining 3% in 2023 to 3.5 billion pounds. Japan and South Korea remain the top U.S. beef export destinations with stable exports in 2022. Meanwhile, Chinese demand has continued to grow with tonnage up 20% last year, likely with continued room to grow.
Mike Murphy, CattleFax vice president of research and risk management services, said National Dec. 1 on-farm hay stock were down 9% from a year-ago at 71.9 million tons with hay prices averaging $216/ton in 2022.
“Last year was the smallest U.S. hay production year since 1959,” Murphy said. “Hay prices will likely continue to be high in the first part of 2023, but we expect weather patterns to improve pasture conditions as early as this spring which should help stabilize and soften hay prices throughout 2023.”
CattleFax said corn stocks-to-use are just under 9% and will continue to support the market above $6/bu., and provide resistance near $7.50/bu. into the summer with a yearly average price of $6.50/bu. expected.
Blach concluded the session with an overall positive outlook, expecting improvements in the weather pattern and a tighter supply to distribute more money though all sectors of the cattle industry.
Unique considerations in Farm Equipment Leases
by Cari B. Rincker, Esq. Rincker Law, PLLC
Every farm relies heavily on the availability and affordability of appropriate farm equipment. While it may be ideal to own outright any farm equipment that you need, sometimes it is more cost-effective to lease the equipment. When such is the case, the lease arrangement between the owner—or lessor—of the farm equipment, and the renter—or lessee—of the farm equipment, should be documented in detail in a written farm equipment lease agreement. While farm equipment leases may seem to be a simple concept, in practice they are far more complex. This article discusses six critical issues that a properly drafted farm equipment lease agreement should address.
What farm equipment does the lease cover?
When it comes to lease agreements, it is always best to describe the terms in as much detail as possible so that future disputes can be avoided. This is true when it comes to describing the farm equipment that the lease will cover. The lease should describe the type, make, model, size, condition, and estimated value of each piece of equipment. If the lease involves a large number of equipment, it may be best to attach an exhibit or addendum that lists the relevant information for each piece of equipment, rather than including the unwieldy information in the body of the agreement.
How should rent be calculated?
While most of us are familiar with a lease model that charges a renter based on a unit of time (for example, monthly rent or annual rent), farm equipment lease agreements do not always do this. Because farm equipment depreciates in value with use, it can make more sense for a farm equipment lease to charge the renter on a “per use” model. “Per use” rent means that the renter pays the owner an agreed-upon rate based on a unit of measurement of use, such as thehourly use or the per-acre use of the equipment. Note that an equipment lease that includes several different types of equipment with different estimated total values may charge different “per use” rates per equipment.
There are a few considerations to keep in mind when determining whether a farm equipment lease should employ either a time-based or a “per use” model for rent. A “per use” model requires the accurate and honest documentation of the renter’s use of the equipment, whereas a time-based
model requires no such documentation. Moreover, a timebased model usually guarantees a regular and predictable rent income for the owner of the farm equipment, while a “per use” model often requires that the rent will be due at the end of a lease term. The owner may not be able to accurately predict rent income under a “per use” model.
If the parties to a farm equipment lease agree that a time-based rent model best suits their needs, but equipment depreciation is still a concern, a hybrid approach may be appropriate. In a hybrid rent approach, the renter pays the owner monthly or annual rent, but the lease contains a “maximum use” provision wherein the renter will owe the owner additional “per use” rent at the end of the lease term if the renter exceeds a certain predetermined amount of use of the farm equipment.
Are there any restrictions on the use of the farm equipment?
A farm equipment owner will want to ensure that the renter agrees to use the equipment in a way that avoids equipment damage, excessive depreciation, or personal injury. Accordingly, the lease agreement should include terms that restrict unwarranted use. For example, the lease may specify that the farm equipment may be used for agricultural and related purposes only. It may also limit the use to certain geographic locations and certain permitted users (such as the renter and his or her trained agents and employees). The lease may also require that the renter follow certain specified safe operating procedures, as well as any applicable state and federal laws, manufacturer warranties, and insurance restrictions.
Who is responsible for repairing damages to the equipment?
A farm lease agreement should clearly delineate which party is responsible for both routine and non-routine repairs or replacement of the farm equipment. While the parties can agree on any division of labor they like, a common default is that the renter will be responsible for the proper care and ordinary maintenance of the farm machinery. This may include routine damage checks, fluid checks and refills, routine cleaning, and safe storage. On the other hand, the owner may be responsible for the costs of all major repairs to the farm equipment, such as the replacement of tires
and other major parts, or any other overhauls in excess of normal maintenance. The parties should specify in the lease agreement who is responsible for the costs of transporting the farm equipment to the location where any such repairs are performed. While the renter may be held responsible for damages caused by his or her misuse of the farm equipment, the lease agreement should address which party is required to replace any equipment that is non-functional due to circumstances outside of the renter’s control, such as fire, flood, or machinery or electrical failure. If it is the owner’s responsibility to replace the equipment under such circumstances, and he or she does not do so in a timely manner, the lease may include a potential adjustment in rent for the renter.
Who is responsible for insuring the equipment?
Farm equipment is expensive machinery that is often insured. The lease agreement should clearly define which party is responsible for insuring such equipment. Often the owner will fully insure the equipment against casualty, theft or other loss, damage from natural causes, or against personal liability. Meanwhile, the renter may be asked to provide proof of a general liability insurance policy adequate to compensate for any loss caused while operating the farm equipment.
What happens if there is a dispute?
While the primary goal of a farm equipment lease agreement is to avoid any disputes between the parties, a secondary goal is to roadmap what should happen in the event that a dispute nevertheless arises. To that end, a lease should include the parties’ wishes regarding the means to resolve any potential disputes. This includes whether there are any predetermined damages available to either party in the event of a breach, whether the parties plan to use alternative dispute resolution (e.g., mediation or arbitration), which court will have jurisdiction over any legal proceedings, which state’s laws will apply when interpreting the agreement, and whether parties will be allowed to recover any reasonable attorneys’ fees incurred in a dispute.
Tips for the Lessor and the Lessee
While it is important that a farm equipment lease agreement be mutually beneficial, there are certain provisions and precautions that each party may wish to pay special attention to. For example, the owner—or lessor—may consider including a clause that preserves his or her right to access the equipment during the lease for any foreseeable need. The owner may also take extra care to ensure that the clauses concerning the renter’s care of the farm equipment are precise and robust. The owner should also be aware of any duty that arises from any timely loss replacement provisions in the lease.
On the other hand, the renter—or lessee—should be sure to thoroughly inspect the equipment at issue prior to entering into the lease agreement. Any preexisting issues with the equipment should be considered and, if deemed nevertheless acceptable, documented in the lease. The renter should
also pay particular attention to his or her duties regarding recording use amounts and staying within any maximum use provisions. Finally, the renter should inform himself or herself of the standard operating procedures and the relevant warranties for each piece of farm equipment in order to avoid liability from improper use.
Lease agreements are binding contracts with significant consequences. Given the variables and complexities addressed above, is advisable for either party to hire an attorney to help craft or review a suitable farm equipment lease agreement that is carefully tailored for the unique needs of the parties. Whether an attorney is employed, or whether the parties take it upon themselves to draw up the agreement, the parties to such a lease agreement should ensure that they have adequately addressed each of the issues discussed in this article in order to protect against unnecessary loss.
For more information contact:
Cari Rincker, Esq. Rincker Law, PLLC
Licensed in IL, NY, NJ, CT, KY, TX and DC
Illinois Office:
301 N. Neil Street, Suite 400 Champaign, IL 61820
New York Office:
535 Fifth Avenue, 4th Floor New York, NY 10017
(212) 427-2049
cari@rinckerlaw.com www.rinckerlaw.com
The Lineage The Lineage
For a brief shining moment, Gene Bergschneider was a Grand Champion Quarter Horse Showman. Thankfully for the Illinois beef industry, he gave up showing horses early on and focused his entire career on breeding iconic Herefords moving not just his farm but the industry itself ever forward.
Gene still laughs about the time he won the Hoof & Horn Club Showmanship Contest as a University of Illinois student by showing a horse. He also says it only convinced him his heart was with cattle, specifically Herefords. Just a few years later, he would graduate from the university and head back to the fourth-generation New Berlin farm where he grew up showing cattle locally.
Maybe that show shaped his passion for supporting youth; maybe it came from his own experiences growing up. Gene cannot quite pinpoint it, but he knows it has always been something he liked to do, not only youth in the industry but around the community too. “He always tried to be helpful to young farmers and beef exhibitors; he has been very active with them,” says his brother Bruce Bergschneider.
The Illinois beef world has long recognized his leadership and expertise in cattle breeding and furthering the youth of the industry, but what you may not know is he directs that same passion toward New Berlin athletics. In fact, he recently received this year’s Friend of County award at the Sangamon County Boys Basketball Tournament. “He is an outstanding man who has served people and his community his entire life,” New Berlin Athletic Director Blake Lucas says.
Previously he was inducted into the New Berlin High School Sports Hall of Fame as well as the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame as a friend of the sport. He volunteered as timer at New Berlin High School basketball games for more than 60 years and was instrumental in starting the football program, then served as football timer for more than 40 years.
He served on boards at the school, in community club, at the local elevator, in extension and with the Land of Lincoln Livestock Breeders Association, who awarded him the 2022 Land of Lincoln Purebred Livestock Breeders Award for his contributions to the beef industry.
County fairs and the Illinois State Fair also benefited from Gene’s dedication as he showed Herefords at the State Fair for
of a Legacy of a Legacy
byJoli Hohenstein
70 years and by 50 years in, even had Gene Bergschneider Day in Illinois declared by Governor Jim Edgar.
For decades he exhibited at county fairs all over the area, often showing up to the State Fair with the animals already sold “and people waiting with a truck to take them when it was over,” he says. At one time Gene oversaw the beef show at the State Fair and, more recently, he was recognized as the 2022 Illinois State Fair County Fair Person.
For more than 40 years Gene served on the Sangamon County Fair Board and, in fact, he is still co-superintendent of the beef show with his son Chris, one of four sons he and his wife raised. Gene and his wife, Darlene, will celebrate their 60th anniversary this year and now enjoy watching community ball games, along with cattle shows. “Now I watch kids show cattle, and I showed cattle against their granddads!” he says.
Through it all, raising exceptional purebred Herefords remained his passion. “They were docile, easy to work with and you could put them in the pasture and forget about them,” he says. In 1960, he struck gold when he showed the Grand Champion carcass steer on both foot and rail at the International Livestock Show in Chicago — the only one in history. “The next year we went back to the same breeder and bought his brother; he didn’t do anything,” says Gene.
Such is the life of a beef showman, and it didn’t deter him. “I just enjoyed doing it, and it’s a year-long project, so you’d better enjoy it,” he says. “If you enjoy it, it’s not really work.”
Though Gene will try to tell you his work is done, with his nephew running the farm now and his showman days behind him, make no mistake, this is a legacy still in progress and it is a story he’s not done with any more than he can stop himself from giving his nephew input on the farm. Cattle captured his heart and soul more than 75 years ago and they won’t let go any time soon.
Illinois State Fairgrounds
February 23-26, 2023
Sale Results
Seedstock breeders consigned cattle to three different sales during the Illinois Beef Expo February 2326 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield. Cattle enthusiasts from throughout the Midwest had the opportunity to purchase leading genetics from some of Illinois’ most accomplished breeders during the Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale. In addition, this year two new sales were added - a multi-breed female sale and a frozen genetics sale.
IPT Bull Sale
For 54 years, the Performance Tested Bull Sale has provided elite seedstock for cattle breeders. The 2023 sale held February at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield averaged $4,439.80 on the 49 lots sold. The sale is a multibreed sale of mostly Angus and Simmental cattle, and offers both older age-advantaged bulls and yearlings.
The top selling bull was a yearling Angus bull consigned by Kramer Farms of Illiopolis. The bull, Kramer Farms Patriarch 2145, sold for $8,250.
The next highest seller was priced at $8,000. Bob Fitzpatrick of Haven Hill Simmentals sold HHS JAXON 831J.
The sale is managed by Travis Meteer, Illinois Extension commercial ag educator “During the past 54 years, the sale has sold 4,905 bulls valued at over 9 million dollars,” he says.
During the sale, the late Stan Tarr was remembered, and a memorial gift was presented to his wife and daughter for his past contributions to the sale and Illinois genetics as a whole. The late Dr. Doug Parrett was also honored for his immense amount of support for the sale over the years.
University of Illinois Extension, University of Illinois Department of Animal Sciences, and consigning breeders sponsored the sale. Vita-Ferm, ABS, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Dearwester Grain, HD 50K and Illinois Simmental Association provided industry support.
Producers interested in viewing a breakdown of all the prices can visit the IPT Bull Sale website. Also included on this site are numbers and averages from the previous sales.
Seedstock breeders interested in consigning to the 2024 IPT Bull Sale should contact Meteer at 217-430-7030 or wmeteer2@illinois.edu to request a copy of the rules and regulation and nomination form. Nominations must be made by Dec.1, 2023, for the 2024 sale.
Multi-breed Female Sale
The first new addition to Illinois Beef Expo was the MultiBreed Female Sale held on Friday, February 24. The new sale attracted bidders both in-person and online, reaching almost 200 registered bidders in total. The sale averaged $5,391 on 29 head and grossed $156,350.
The top selling femaile was Lot 2 HPF Alley 397E, consigned by Bramlet Simmentals and Collier Cattle. She sold for $20,000 to Sievers Show Cattle of Dixon, Iowa.
The next high seller sold for $13,000 to William Miller of Canyon, Texas. The open heifer, HTF LC Proven Queen 2282 was owned by Hill Top Farm and Lampe Cattle.
This year’s sale was managed by Ryan Haefner of Haefner Marketing Services. Seedstock breeders interested in consigning to the 2024 sale may contact Ryan at 815-4990522 or email rlhaefn1@gmail.com.
The Collection
The Collection, a frozen genetics sale of over 100 offerings, was the next new add-on for the 2023 Illinois Beef Expo. Many lots selling highlighted the exceptional cattle shown and bred within the state. The sale took place on the evening of Saturday, February 25, and began with a social hour where they served sliders and drinks.
The top selling lots were lot 55, a mix and match package of four sexed male IVF embryos of the buyer’s choice from Jackson Cattle. It sold for $5,700 per embryo to a Texas buyer.
Other top selling lots included lot 1, two packages of full sib embryos to the 2022 Supreme Champion Female at our Illinois state fair. This lot of six embryos totaled $29,400 selling a package each to an Illinois and a Pennsylvania buyer.
An additional top selling lot was for $9,500 on Lot 3C, one sexed heifer pregnancy sired by GATEWAY FOLLOW ME F163 X SARA’S DREAM 1339, making the resulting calf a full sib sister to the 2022 Illinois State Fair Reserve Supreme Champion Female. It sold to Circle M Farms of Texas.
For semen, the top selling lot was lot 103 E at $2,700 for one unit of BBR Memphis Mafia 3E. Selling to a Wisconsin buyer.
Seedstock breeders interested in consigning genetics to the 2024 sale may contact sale coordinator, Kevin Mears of Stock Options Marketing, at 937-533-0169.
Show Results Show Results
2023 Illinois Beef Expo Heifer Show Springfield | February 25-26 | Andy Higgins, Tenn.
Grand Champion Heifer
Champion Simmental
3rd Overall Heifer
Reserve Champion Simmental
Reserve Grand Champion Heifer
Champion Angus
4th Overall Heifer
Champion % Simmental
Shown by Preston Hartman
5th Overall Heifer
Reserve Champion Angus Shown by
Shown by Braylen Schaeffer
Jack Dameron
Shown by Conley Schick
Shown by Colt Roeder
Photos by Cindy Cagwin-Johnston
Champion Commercial
Shown by Jakob Setchell
Reserve Champion: Kesler Collins
Champion Charolais
Shown by Carter Hoge
Reserve Champion: Preston Hartman
Champion Maine-Angus
Shown by Carter Preston Reserve Champion: Emmerson Jones
Champion AOB
Shown by Cole Riemann Reserve Champion: Lane Mollett
Ring A Heifers
Champion Polled Hereford
Shown by Morgan Richardson Reserve Champion: Kinnick Paulsen
Champion Chianina
Shown by Trace Titus
Reserve Champion: Avery Seys
Champion Shorthorn
Shown by Maddox Reedy
Reserve Champion: Maddox Reedy
Champion Horned Hereford
Shown by Mattie Howard
Reserve Champion: Blakely Storey
Champion Limousin
Shown by Brody Barnard
Reserve Champion: Brenna Bartlow
Champion Shorthorn Plus
Shown by Colton Anderson
Reserve Champion: Addyson Onion
Other Winners:
Champion Maintainer: Megan Mollet
Reserve Champion Maintainer: Ellis Dowell
Champion Maine: Nalaney Guyer
Reserve Champion Maine: Charlee Jones
Champion Red Angus: Hadley Hartman
Reserve Champion Red Angus: Paige Van Dyke
Reserve Champion % Simmental: Breckyn Bloomberg
*Champion breed winners listed chose not to have a photo taken.
Show Results Show Results
2023 Illinois Beef Expo Heifer Show
Springfield | February 25-26 | Jon Sweeney, Ohio
Grand Champion Heifer
Champion Maintainer
3rd Overall Heifer
Reserve Champion Simmental
Reserve Grand Champion Heifer
Champion Simmental
Shown by Colt Roeder
4th Overall Heifer
Champion Angus
Shown by Jack Dameron
5th Overall Heifer
Champion Commercial
Shown by Nalaney Guyer
Shown by McKlay Gensini
Shown by Conley Schick
Photos by Cindy Cagwin-Johnston
Champion Polled Hereford
Shown by Reed Naughton Reserve
Champion Chianina
Shown
Champion Maine
Shown by Charlee Jones Reserve
Nalaney Guyer
Champion Shorthorn Plus
Shown
Ring B Heifers
Champion Horned Hereford
Champion Limousin
Champion Red Angus
Shown
Champion % Simmental
Shown
Champion Charolais
Shown
Champion Maine-Angus
Shown
Champion Shorthorn
Shown
Champion AOB
Shown
Champion: Morgan Richardson
Shown by Blakely Storey Reserve Champion: Nolan Lee
Champion:
Shown by Brody Barnard Reserve Champion: Brenna Bartlow
by Trace Titus Reserve Champion: Avery Seys
by Reese Murdock Reserve Champion: Carter Preston
by Carter Hoge Reserve Champion: Kaolin Lewis
by Paige Van Dyke
Champion: Lauren Wolter
by Maddox Reedy Reserve Champion: Alexa Turner
by Addyson Onion Reserve Champion: Ella Jones
by Breckyn Bloomberg Reserve Champion: Carter Hoge
by Cole Rieman Reserve Champion: Lane Mollett
Show Results Show Results
2023
Springfield | February 25 | Jon Sweeney, Ohio
Grand Champion Steer
Champion Crossbred
Champion Chianina
Reserve Grand Champion Steer
Reserve Champion Crossbred
Champion Maine
Reserve Champion Maine
Shown by Chace Riley
4th Overall Steer
Shown by Sam Nightingale
5th Overall Steer
Shown by Nalaney Guyer
Shown by Madeline Nightingale
3rd Overall Steer
Shown by Kashen Ellerbrock
Illinois Beef Expo Steer Show
Photos by Cindy Cagwin-Johnston
Champion Angus
Shown by Christian Fischer Reserve Champion: Max Dameron
Champion Shorthorn
Shown by Zoe Johnson Reserve Champion: Lane Weber
Champion Market Heifer
Shown by Susannah Sinclair Reserve Champion: Miranda Reed
Ring A Steers
Champion Charolais
Shown by Chet Gillespie Reserve Champion: Levi Hinshaw
Champion Shorthorn Plus
Shown by Colton Foose Reserve Champion: Ainsley Link
Champion Hereford
Shown by Maci Brooks Reserve Champion: Stetson Storey
Champion Simmental
Shown by Kylie Gillespie Reserve Champion: Jeron Johnson
Other Winners:
Reserve Champion Chianina: Ella Eathington Champion AOB: Brayden Goodbred Reserve Champion AOB: Lane Mollett
Will Heavener was awarded the first-ever Jim Bloomberg Memorial award.
Show Results Show Results
2023 Illinois Beef Expo Steer Show
Springfield | February 25 | Andy Higgins, Tenn.
Grand Champion Steer
Champion Champion Crossbred
3rd Overall Steer
Champion Maine
Reserve Grand Champion Steer
Reserve Champion Crossbred
Overall
Reserve Champion Maine
Photos by Cindy Cagwin-Johnston
Shown by Adam Miller
4th Overall Steer
3rd
Crossbred Shown by Chace Riley
5th Overall Steer
Shown by Sam Nightingale
Shown by Madeline Nightingale
Shown by Nalaney Guyer
Champion Angus
Shown by Christian Fischer
Reserve Champion: Max Dameron
Champion Shorthorn
Shown by Stetson Storey
Reserve Champion: Maci Brooks
Champion Simmental
Shown by Jared Bressner
Reserve Champion: Kylie Gillespie
Ring B Steers
Champion Charolais
Shown by Levi Hinshaw
Reserve Champion: Chet Gillespie
Champion Shorthorn
Shown by Lane Weber
Reserve Champion: Zoe Johnson
Champion AOB
Shown by Lane Mollett
Reserve Champion: Brayden Goodbred
Champion Chianina
Shown by Ella Eathington
Reserve Champion: John Nightingale
Champion Shorthorn Plus
Shown by Colton Foose
Reserve Champion: Ainsley Link
Champion Market Heifer
Shown by Miranda Reed
Reserve Champion: Isabella Hanson
Youth Contests
Taylorville FFA Wins FFA Division for the Second Year, Kylie Gillespie Tops Individual Points in Illinois Beef Expo Livestock Judging
Illinois Beef Expo brought 4-H and FFA juniors from accross Illinois to the Illinois State Fairgrounds to test their animal evaluation skills in the Livestock Judging Contest on February 24. More than 300 individual exhibitors competed and this year, the contest was coordinated by Black Hawk College East-Campus Livestock Judging Team.
Skillathon Contest Awards Beef Knowledge at the 2023 Illinois Beef Expo
This year’s Illinois Beef Expo skilathon contest gathered youth from across Illinois to test their beef cattle knowledge. The skillathon contest happened on February 24 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield. An intermediate division was added to the contest this year, dividing contestents into three catagories
First place in the junior division was Vaughn Hank, Maddox Reedy, Breckyn Bloomberg, Maci Beckman, Lily Grobosky, Abraham Morrow, Reagan Hueber, Harper Shike, Payton May, Luke Sellmeyer and Ivy Goodbred.
The intermediate division top ten included Claire Kuipers in first, followed by Drake Penrod, Macie Bartlow, Hunter Shike, Callie Turner, Colby Metzger, Lucy Death, Carson Beckman, Connor Ortman and Rylie Walsh.
Highest points in the senior division were awarded to Ellie Drach, followed by Davis Howell, Matthew Benon, Tessa Ortman, Rhett Lehman, Kelsie Avery, Abby Weber, Abby Clapp, Emma Taylor and Ben Sellmeyer.
The contest was coordinated by the Illinois State 4-H Skillathon Team.
Kylie Gillespie, Avery Knupp, Kashen Ellerbrock, Sam Nightingale
Points Program
Junior showmen were recognized as the 2022 Illinois Beef Association Points Show Program winners at the 2023 Illinois Beef Expo on February 25. The IBA Points Show Program awards youth for success in the show ring at sanctioned cattle shows throughout the state. Claire Dorsey of Moro was named the 2022 Overall IBA Points Show Program winner and won a custom-branded table with four directors chairs, all provided by IBA.
The Top Ten Heifer Points Show Program winners were Claire Dorsey of Moro, Tyler Miller of Atlanta, Paige Lemenager of Hudson, Wyatt Dryer or Merna, Kesler Collins of Flanagan, Maddox Reedy of Tuscola, Kira Sayre of Arenzville, Kyle Eathington of Avon, Ashlyn Mool of Lexington, and Addison Bartlow of Monticello.
The Top Ten Steer Points Show Program winners were Sophie Trainor of Tower Hill, Adam Miller of Gridley, John Lukach of Streator, Kyler Saathoff of Manteno, Levi Hinshaw of Secor, Kinlynn Dryer of Merna, Abby Clapp of LeRoy, Cole Caldwell of Elmwood, Dash Simpsen of Downs and Waylon Paulek of Stongington.
The IBA Points Show Program is funded by the Illinois Beef Checkoff.
Photos by Cindy’s Livestock Photography.
Heifer Division
Steer Division
Thank You Sponsors
Journeys to the Top Journeys to the Top
byOlivia Hoots
The World Needs More Barns
Many years ago, when the Dorsey family was out moving calves, an old show heifer turned and started moving toward their little five-year-old girl. Just at the right time her father was able to step in and protect her from any potential danger. Even in the arms of safety, wondering what could have happened made her petrified of cattle.
Today, you would never suspect that girl was Claire Dorsey, high school senior and 8th generation farmer, who earned the most points for the 2022 Illinois Beef Association Points Show Program. “Now you can’t keep her out of the barn,” says Beth Dorsey, Claire’s mom.
What changed for Claire was 2020. During that time of crisis, Claire dedicated more time to working on cattle in the barn. “That’s really where her passion ignited,” Beth says.
“I found a passion for showing cattle and, really, the dayto-day care,” Claire says.
Last year at Illinois Beef Expo, Claire won Grand Champion Heifer in Ring B, but just planned on going and
doing her best. Yet, her heifer had what it took to take home the prize.
“I remember the judge was giving his speech and he had his back toward me, I kind of thought there was no way I was going to be in the top five at all,” Claire says. “As soon as he put the mic down, he started walking my way.”
For Claire, this was quite the emotional rollercoaster. By the time she exited the ring she was shaking with excitement as friends and family gathered around to give her the kind of hug all showmen and women covet.
It is always fun to see the extended family and the grandparents all show up to root and cheer all the kids on,” Brad says. “It turns into a family event.”
The same heifer won Reserve Grand Champion Junior Other Breeds at the 2022 North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville. She won her class 14 of the 16 times she was in the ring throughout the 2022 show season.
“Little me would be really stoked to see I’ve accomplished
Personal stories of how Claire Dorsey and Sophie Trainor each accomplished their 2022 IBA Points Show Program wins.
Claire and her family after her heifer won 2022 Illinois Beef Expo Grand Champion Heifer.
Claire with her heifer after winning Reserve Grand Champion Other Breeds at the 2022 North American International Livestock Exposition.
as much as I have been able to,” Claire says.
Some years, heifers are the perfect fit for success. One good thing for Claire and her 2022 heifer is the strong bond between them. “We’re just kind of a team that will work really well together,” Claire says. “It is really neat to step back and watch how far that heifer and I have come.”
The people around her played an even bigger role in that. “It is a really amazing experience whenever your whole team gets to celebrate a win you have been trying to achieve throughout the whole year,” Claire says.
The heifer is a Percentage Simmental known as JSUL DAT DEGA 1053J ET. Claire contributes much of her success to Garrett and Natalie Meisner who led her toward the heifer and were supportive throughout the whole show season.
Brad likes watching his kids be successful at what they do. He says you should always believe in your program and in your stock, and to make that your number one goal in the show industry.
Claire recalls memories made in the show barn with her family. She says her older brother, Drew, influenced her to grow in the skill of showing livestock, and her younger sister, Jemma, is already on her way there too. “We are always exchanging opinions about feed rations, or skincare,” Claire says.
Brad is grateful he gets to raise his kids in the livestock industry. “There’s a lot of lessons that are learned in the barn,” he says. “The old saying ‘the world needs more barns’ is the most true statement there is in the world.”
Beth is also confident about Claire’s future, especially for the next few years as a junior. “I think Claire will be successful because she has got a lot of heart and drive and passion,” she says.
Willing to Work for It
Knowing what you want will not get you what you want unless you are willing to work for it. At least that is the outlook of Sophie Trainor, top points exhibitor in the steer division for the IBA Points Show Program.
Sophie is a senior in high school with much involvement in extracurricular such as golf, 4-H, FFA and yearbook. Yet, her favorite activity is to show cattle and pigs. That is why her big goal for 2022 was to win the IBA Points Show Program in the steer division – and she did just that.
The Dorsey’s - Beth, Claire, Jemma and Bred.
Sohpie and her steer at the Illinois State Fair.
Growing up on a production grain and livestock operation that raises purebred Herefords means Sophie has always been interested in the industry, but her passion for it grew when she got her first show heifer during her freshman year of high school, then began to show steers the following year.
The Trainor family – Chuck and Ellen, and their kids Sydney, Chase and, of course, Sophie – had not paid much attention to the points show program until they noticed Sophie placed 12th last year. Once they found out how close they were their mindset transitioned.
Sophie and her sister were determined to win. They set out to accomplish just that, giving it everything they had.
“The whole summer we were hoping that I was somewhere in the top ten,” Sophie says. “But in my head I felt like I wanted number one, for sure.”
Her dad pitched in too, driving her anywhere in Illinois she wanted to go to increase her points standings. “We tried to hit as many IBA sanctioned points shows as we possibly could,” Sophie says.
During the Illinois State Fair, Sophie recognized she was in the lead. Though a bit worried about keeping her points up, but decided to trust she could hold her standing, hoping her points at DuQuoin State Fair would also help.
Finally, she was able to see the final postings. “My mouth just dropped instantly,” she says. Immediately she called her sister to rejoice with her at the happy news.
Next, she dashed out the kitchen door to meet her dad at their shed. Showing him the results on her phone he responds, “you’re joking,” taking her in his arms for a hug.
So, how did she do it? “Always set goals for yourself. Once I set it as a goal, I was able to accomplish it,” Sophie says. Even so, Sophie admits she could not have done this on her own. She needed other people who believed she could accomplish the goal too, to help her get there. “I was not able to accomplish it by myself, but because of the support system that I have.”
For Sophie, this was an accomplishment she had worked for all summer, and even beyond that. She recognizes, however, that it was not just a personal win.
“It was a family win which made it even more special,” she says.
Sophie attributes her tight knit relationship with her
siblings to their time in the barn. Showing cattle together has brought her and Sydney closer together. Today, even their brother, Chase, still chips in to help her, with Sydney now living in Oklahoma.
This accomplishment, along with her outlook on the cattle industry, and her family have given Sophie some perspective. “Do not take for granted the memories you make,” she says. “This is how my whole family and I have been able to make those memories we will keep for ever and ever.”
With that set of ideals embedded in her mind, Sophie is thinking of going into agriculture communications as a way of giving back to this industry she cherishes so much.
“As long as you put the work in, you will get there one way or another,” Sophie says. A mindset not just for the show ring, but for each of us.
CHECKING IN WITH THE CHECKOFF
Illinois Beef Checkoff Sponsors Winter Chili Cookoffs
On January 15 the Illinois Beef Checkoff sponsored the Winter Freeze Chili Cookoff at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Springfield Illinois. Chili cooks were given Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. aprons, cutting boards and stickers. Visitors participated in a “chili passport” contest which challenged them to meet chefs and try multiple chilis. The winner received a gift certificate to buy beef. Other Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. products were handed out and educational conversations were had. IBA board member Joan Harrison helped staff make the day a success.
The Joe Defrates Memorial Regional Chili Cookoff was hosted on February 19 at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Riverton. The theme of the cookoff was the Daytona 500, which is fitting considering it was the same weekend as the Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner. 300. At the event, chili chefs recieved Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. branded chili bowls. Staff and IBA members Randy and Betsy Pech and Josiah Klokkenga, representing Heartland Beef Association, handed out stickers, steak seasoning and beef education materials. Pictured below: two cooks pose with in their beef aprons from the January cookoff.
Spring’s Freshest Flavors
GRILLED STEAK AND WATERMELON SALAD
30 MIN 4 SERVINGS 290 CAL 29 G PROTEIN INGREDIENTS:
4 beef Tenderloin Steaks, cut 1 inch thick (about 4 to 5 ounces each)
1. Combine coriander and cumin; press evenly onto beef steaks.
2. Place steaks in center of grid over medium, ash-covered coals; arrange watermelon slices around steak. Grill steaks, covered, 10 to 14 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill, 11 to 15 minutes) for medium rare (145°F) to medium (160°F) doneness, turning occasionally. Grill watermelon 2 to 4 minutes or until grill marks form, turning once.
3. Carve steaks into slices. Cut each watermelon slice into 6 wedges. Season beef and watermelon with salt and pepper, as desired. Combine arugula and dressing in large bowl; toss to coat. Divide arugula among four serving plates. Arrange beef and watermelon on salad; top evenly with tomatoes, onion and cheese.
• Wash hands with soap and water before cooking and always after touching raw meat.
• Separate raw meat from other foods.
• Wash all cutting boards, utensils, and dishes after touching raw meat.
• Do not reuse marinades used on raw foods.
• Wash all produce prior to use.
• Cook steaks and roasts until temperature reaches 145°F for medium rare, as measured by a meat thermometer, allowing to rest for three minutes.
• Cook Ground Beef to 160°F as measured by a meat thermometer.
• Refrigerate leftovers promptly.
For more information on degree of doneness and other cooking tips visit: https://www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com/cooking/determining-doneness
For more information on safe food handling and beef safety, see: https://www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com/cooking/food-safety 285 CALORIES 3g SAT FAT 29g PROTEIN 3.9 mg IRON 4.7 mg ZINC
* Based on a 2,000 calorie diet
** Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet
Nutrition information per serving: 285 Calories; 81 Calories from fat; 9g Total Fat (3g Saturated Fat; 3 g Monounsaturated Fat;) 71 mg Cholesterol; 341 mg Sodium; 26 g Total Carbohydrate; 4.1 g Dietary Fiber; 29 g Protein; 3.9 mg Iron; 7.8 mg NE Niacin; 0.7 mg Vitamin B ; 1.4 mcg Vitamin B ; 4.7 mg Zinc; 29 mcg Selenium. This recipe is an excellent source of Protein, Iron, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Zinc, and Selenium; and a good source of Dietary Fiber.
Illinois Beef Association
PRIVATE TREATY SALES CHECKOFF INVESTMENT FORM
Seller’s Name
Seller’s Signature
IN THIS ISSUE:
March/April 2023
DIRECTORS
President: David Jenkins
Vice President: Carla Jurgenson
Secretary: Aaron Schafer
Business Manager: Doug Turner
Past President: Joel York
Bureau County: John DeRycke
Central Illinois: Luke Lemenager
Illinois Valley: Open
Lamoine Valley: Tracy Rawlings
Logan County : Carla Jurgenson
Northern Illinois: Jarad Carroll
South Central: Richard Hurst
Wabash Valley: Shaye Harre
Directors at Large:
Grant Bedel
TJ Curtin
Jim Marsh
Bradley Wolter
Kyle Buetke
Jeff Dameron
Chris Cassady
Clay Sellmeyer
Dan Naughton
Greg McClure
David Mool
Lee Stremsterfer
UPCOMING EVENTS
Visit the Events page at www.illinoisangus.com for a list of upcoming events and Angus sales this spring.
CONTACT
To place advertisements or your latest Angus news contact: Olivia Hoots Illinois Beef Editor Illinois Beef Association 217-787-4280
olivia@illinoisbeef.com www.illinoisbeef.com
ON THE COVER
Photo of Casey Jentz, American Angus Association Regional Manager during the Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale at Illinois Beef Expo. Taken by Olivia Hoots.
Show Results
2023 Cattlemen’s Congress Show’s Junior Angus Show
Oklahoma City, Okla. | Jan. 5 | Jason Hoffman, Neb.
Reserve Champion Junior Heifer Calf
Division 1
Anne Dameron, Towanda, Ill.
Reserve Champion Junior Heifer Calf
Division 3
Alexia Stevens, Allendale, Ill.
Champion Junior Heifer Calf Division 3
Lauren Wolter, Aviston, Ill.
Reserve Champion Junior Heifer Calf
Division 4
Jack Dameron, Towanda, Ill.
2023 Cattlemen’s Congress Super Point Roll of Victory Show
Oklahoma City, Okla. | Jan. 4-7 | Jim Pipkin, Mo.
Reserve Champion Junior Bull Calf
Division 1
Holly Marsh, Earlville, Ill.
2023 National Western Stock Show’s Junior Angus Show
Denver, Colo. | Jan. 12 | Dan Harker, Ind.
Champion Senior Heifer Calf
SCC CB Phyllis 1114
Ella Brooks, Prophetstown, Ill.
2023 National Western Stock Show’s Super Point Roll of Victory Angus Show
Denver, Colo. | Jan. 13 | Scott Bush, S.D.
Grand Champion Bull
Lazy JB Ego 1428
C 5 Angus, Dameron Angus Farm, Lazy JB
Angus
Senior Heifer Calf Champion
SCC CB Phyllis 1114
Ella Brooks, Prophetstown, Ill.
Reserve Grand Champion
Female
Seldom Rest Sandy 2030
Jack Dameron, Towanda, Ill.
Reserve Junior Heifer Calf
Champion--Division 1
SCC SFC Phyllis 230
Ella Brooks, Prophetstown, Ill.
Reserve Junior Champion Heifer
PVF Proven Queen 1033
Amelia Miller, Gridley, Ill.
Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show’s Roll of Victory Angus Show
Fort Woth, Texas | Jan. 28 | Shane Bedwell, Mo.
Reserve Grand Champion Bull
Lazy JB Ego 1428
C5 Angus Dameron Angus Farm, Lazy JB Angus
2023 Dixie National Roll of Victory Angus Show
Jackson, Miss | Feb. 13 | Katy Satree-Rucker, Kan. | Photos by Will Harsh
Grand Champion Cow-calf Pair
Colburn Saras Dream 9727
Morgan Hutchins, Charleston, Ill.
Champion Early Fall Heifer Calf
Destinys Georgiana 328
Morgan Hutchins, Charletson, Ill.
Reserve Junior Champion Bull
Destinys American Style 304
Morgan Hutchins, Charleston, Ill.
Reserve Champion Early Fall
Heifer Calf
Destinys Dream 341
Morgan Hutchins, Charleston, Ill.
Reserve Champion Early Fall Bull Calf
Destinys Back In Black 320
Morgan Hutchins, Charleston, Ill.
Reserve Champion Summer Heifer Calf
Destinys Eileen 324
Morgan Hutchins, Charleston, Ill.
Breeders’ Best Six Head
Destiny Angus Farm, Charletson, Ill.
2023 Illinois Beef Expo Junior Show
Springfield, IL | Feb. 24-25 | Jon Sweeney & Andy Higgins
Photos by Cindy Livestock Photography
Champion Angus Steer Both Rings
Shown by Christian Fischer
5th Overall, Reserve
Champion Angus Heifer Ring A; 4th Overall, Champion
Angus Heifer Ring B
Shown by Jack Dameron
4th Overall, Champion Angus
Heifer Ring B
Shown by Jack Dameron
Angus Foundation
Reserve Champion Angus Steer Both Rings
Shown by Max Dameron
Champion Maine-Angus Ring A, Reserve Champion
Maine-Angus Heifer Ring B
Shown by Carter Preston
Reserve Champion Angus Heifer Ring B
Shown by Brenna Bartlow
hosts 150 Years of Angus Celebration
Reserve Grand Champion
Heifer Overall, Grand Champion Angus Heifer Ring A
Shown by Braylen Schaeffer
Reserve Champion
Maine-Angus Heifer Ring A
Shown by Emerson Jones
Champion Maine-Angus Heifer Ring B
Shown by Reese Murdock
Event held at Cattlemen’s Congress celebrates Angus cattle arriving in the United States.
The Angus Foundation kicked off the year with a celebration commemorating 150 years since Angus cattle first arrived in the United States. The 150 Years of Angus celebration was held January 6 in Oklahoma City during Cattlemen’s Congress and raised nearly $20,000 to support the Foundation’s mission. The event welcomed the Angus family for an evening of fellowship and featured refreshments, door prizes, auction items and the announcement of the 2023 Angus Herdsman of the Year.
In 1873, George Grant settled in Victoria, Kansas, with four Angus bulls from Scotland. In the following 150 years,
the breed has built a legacy in the beef industry. The Angus Foundation works to ensure this legacy continues through its mission to support education, youth and research efforts for the breed. In support of the Foundation’s mission, the event featured several auction and door prize items. Past National Junior Angus Board foundation director Josh Jasper served as the auctioneer, and items sold included: a Live Oak Plantation Experience, an Angus History Sketch, a Custom Greeley Hat and a Two-Night Wine Country Getaway for Six.
“We had a wonderful evening celebrating this huge milestone for our breed with the Angus family,” said Jaclyn Boester, Angus Foundation executive director. “It’s through our donors’ generous support that we can ensure the legacy we’ve built for the last 150 years continues well into the future.”
The program concluded with the announcement of Jeff and Kathi Creamer of Lazy JB Angus, Colorado, as the 2023 Angus Herdsmen of the Year. The Creamers’ longstanding dedication to Angus cattle is a testament to the breed’s influence on cattlemen and their operations.
“We always feel fortunate to have an opportunity like this for our breeders to gather,” said Mark McCully, American Angus Association CEO. “This year it’s extra special as we commemorate such an important event in Angus history.”
The Foundation supports a diverse set of efforts focused on ensuring the Angus legacy remains strong. For more information about the Angus Foundation, visit www.AngusFoundation.org.
— Written by Peyton Schmitt, Angus Communications
Members of the Angus family gather for an evening of fellowship at the 150 Years of Angus Celebration in Oklahoma City. The Angus Foundation hosted the event January 6 during Cattlemen’s Congress to commemorate the 150-year anniversary of the first Angus bulls arriving in the United States.
Angus Foundation Scholarship Applications Now Open
Scholarship applications are now available for college students involved with the Angus breed. The Angus Foundation awarded more than $318,000 in scholarships in 2022 alone. The Foundation offers scholarships to undergraduate, graduate and trade school students each year to help Angus youth achieve their educational goals and offset the rising costs of tuition. Applications are due May 1.
“The Angus Foundation’s scholarship program is one of the most prominent and consistent ways our donors support Angus youth,” said Jaclyn Boester, Angus Foundation executive director. “Our scholarships pave the way for a bright future for our industry by ensuring young people have the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
New this year, the Angus Foundation undergraduate and graduate scholarship applications are available to National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) members through their American Angus Association® login, similar to the National Junior Recognition Program Bronze and Silver award applications. The Foundation’s Certified Angus Beef®/National Junior Angus Association and commercial cattlemen scholarships will still be accessed at AngusFoundation.org and submitted through email.
“Angus Foundation scholarships have provided incredible support as I have furthered my education,” said Marcie Harward, National Junior Angus Board Foundation director and past scholarship recipient. “I’m grateful for my involvement in the Angus breed and its investment in the success of juniors like me.”
Since 1998, the Angus Foundation has awarded more than $4.2 million in undergraduate and graduate scholarships. For more information about the Angus Foundation and its scholarship program, visit AngusFoundation.org.
Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships
Applicants for undergraduate and graduate scholarships must have, at one time, been a member of the NJAA and currently be an active junior, regular or life member of the American Angus Association®. The following documents are required to be considered for a 2023 undergraduate or graduate scholarship: the 2023 scholarship application; three letters of recommendation; a copy of current high school/college/university transcript; and the applicant’s Association member code.
Access to Application: AAA login (www.angusonline.org/Account/Login), “Programs” tab
Submission: Through AAA login
Deadline: May 1, 2023
Certified Angus Beef®/National Junior Angus Association Scholarship
Since 1990, the NJAA has teamed up with Certified Angus Beef® (CAB) to help Angus youth pursue their higher education goals. The selected applicant will receive a $1,500 scholarship. A separate application from the Angus Foundation scholarship application is required for the CAB/NJAA scholarship. (continued on next page)
Access to Application: Download application at AngusFoundation.com
Submission: Email to scholarships@angus.org
Deadline: May 1, 2023
Commercial Cattlemen Scholarship
The Angus Foundation will award four $1,500 scholarships to undergraduate students who use Angus genetics in a commercial cattle operation’s breeding program or whose parents use Angus genetics. Emphasis will be placed on applicants’ knowledge of the cattle industry and perspective of the Angus breed. The applicant or their parent/guardian must have transferred or been transferred an Angus registration paper in the last 36 months (on or after May 1, 2020) and must be considered commercial and not seedstock in their operation. The scholarship applies to any field of study.
Access to Application: Download application at AngusFoundation.com
Submission: Email to scholarships@angus.org
Deadline: May 1, 2023
Anna Parr earns Junior Bronze Award
Anna Parr, Mason City, Ill., has earned the National Junior Angus Association’s (NJAA) Bronze award, according to Caitlyn Brandt, events and junior activities director of the American Angus Association® in Saint Joseph, Mo.
Parr is the 13-year-old daughter of Kirsten Parr and attends Illini Central Middle School. She is a member of the NJAA and the Illinois Junior Angus Association, where she serves as royalty.
She has participated in local, state and national shows. At the National Junior Angus Show (NJAS), Parr participated in the photography, livestock judging, graphic design and quiz bowl contests. She also participated in the mentoring program in 2019.
The Bronze award is the first level of the NJAA Recognition Program that began in 1972. Junior Angus breeders must apply for the award, then meet point requirements in many areas of participation before receiving the honor. Applicants are evaluated in areas of junior Angus association activities and leadership, participation in showmanship, contests and shows, using performance testing to improve their herd and their progress in producing and merchandising Angus cattle.
Illinois Junior Angus Association Elects New Board
At Illinois Beef Expo, the IJAA elected a new junior board for the 2023 year.
As pictured below:
President- Ashlyn Mool
First Vice President- Anne Dameron
Second Vice President- Reese Anderson
Secretary- Paige Lemenager
Treasurer- Emily Brooks
Show Secretary- Ella Brooks
Reporter- Addison Bartlow
Directors: Macie Bartlow, Claire Kuipers, Jordi Oliver, Audrey Curtin, Brenna Bartlow, Will Curtin, Ben Sellmeyer, Grayson Leake, Jack Sellmeyer, Adam Miller, Kyle Eathington (not pictured), Macie Carroll (not pictured), Max Dameron (not pictured), William Miller (not pictured)
2023 Illinois Angus Annual Banquet
On Friday, February 24, the Illinois Angus Association held their annual banquet and auction. The Illinois Angus Auxiliary also hosted their silent auction and sponsored a cake during the event, commemorating 70 years. It was a time of good food and fellowship as members mingled and presentations were given. Winners of the 2023 Illinois Angus Auxillary Scholarship include Lizzie Schafer, Paige Lemenager and Preston Rhode.
2023 Royalty left to right: Princess Cylee Kirchner, Princess Macie Carroll, Ebonette Audrey Curtin, Queen Ella Brooks, Ebonette Chloe Grant, Princess Claire Kuipers and Princess Anna Parr.
Casey Jentz with American Angus Association Junior Bronze and Silver Awardees Anna Parr, Claire Kuipers, Ashlyn Mool, Emily Brooks and Jordi Oliver.
David Jenkins was noticed for his past year as President of the Illinois Angus Association and years as a board member.
Reece Anderson presented Paige Lemenager as the 2023 Illinois Junior Angus Association Outstanding Junior.
Aaron Schafer was recognized for his ten years of service as secretary of the Illinois Angus Association.
Chuck Grove, president of the American Angus Association, giving a presentation on its history and future.
2023 Family of the Year was awarded to the Sellmeyers: Clay and Katie, and their sons Ben, Jake and Luke.
Illinois Angus Auxiliary Membership Application
To become a member of the Illinois Angus Auxiliary, please send your $20 annual dues to: Kristen Ewing, 22821 Rock Lane, Rushville, IL 62681
LARRY RHODES 217-473-5868 cell 217-854-5200 o ce rhodesangus@royell.org 9350 Rte 108, Carlinville, IL 62626 www.RhodesAngus.com
The ILLINOIS BULLETIN
CONTENTS
PRESIDENT
Gene Stumpf
618-407-8374
VICE-PRESIDENT
Kent Burns
618-521-3199
TREASURER
Buddy Edenburn 217-649-0108
MEMBERSHIP SERVICES
Emily Bernard 815-992-8233
illinoishereford@gmail.com
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Randy Kline, 309-824-9937
Matt Johnson, 309-883-9466
Cody Crum, 217-248-7282
Jodi McMillan, 815-751-2293
Chad Benedict, 217-246-5099
Matt Anderson, 309-267-1410
David Biggs, 815-441-4354
Kent Babbs, 618-322-5880
Kim Carney-Rhodes, 217-899-4104
ON THE COVER
Photo taken by Olivia Hoots at Illinois Beef Expo during the Polled Hereford Show.
Show Results
2023 Cattlemen’s Congress Show
Oklahoma City, Okla. | Jan. 5 | Jason Hoffman, Neb.
Junior Show
Class Winners
Class 2- HAWK DARLA 19K ET- BRED BY: HAWK LIVESTOCK- EARLVILLE, IL OWNED BY: LANDON & COLLIN DEATSMAN, LEESBURG, IN, Class 3- PURPLE HB MYRTLE 69K ET - BRED BY: PURPLE REIGN CATTLE COMPANY- TOULON, IL OWNED BY: MAKENNA, TESSA SMITH, AUSTIN SMITH, HUBERTUS, WI, Class 14- HAWK MYLA 39J ET - BRED BY: HAWK LIVESTOCK- EARLVILLE, IL OWNED BY: PAIGE LEMENAGER, HUDSON, IL, Class 19- AR D41A REVA H21- BRED BY: APPLE RIDGE FARMS- SALEM, IL OWNED BY: HALEIGH B FERGUSON, SMITHTON, MO, Class 20- KOLT HCC ANNSLEY 414 - BRED BY: MEGAN HARRELL- CARTHAGE, IL OWNED BY: ELLA WELDON, PIEDMONT, OK, Class 27- PURPLE ELEANOR 125J - BRED BY: PURPLE REIGN CATTLE COMPANY- TOULON, IL OWNED BY: JETTIE FUNDERBURGH, STEPHENVILLE, TX, Class 29- PURPLE LEVITA 100J ET - BRED BY: PURPLE REIGN CATTLE COMPANY- TOULON, IL OWNED BY: SARA ROSE SULLIVAN, DUNLAP, IA, Class 30- LSC JAYDA 106J ET - BRED BY: SOPHIA LOWERS- CLINTON, IL OWNED BY: HOUSTON, DENTON, & CLAYTON STAPLETON, CLINTON, IL, Class 33- PERKS 1502 MARY JO 1002 ET- BRED BY: PERKS RANCH, ROCKFORD, IL OWNED BY: TAYLOR KENDALL & THOMAS KADE BOATMAN, ROCKFORD, IL
Class 34- BP SP EF 88X HENRIETTA 45H ET- BRED BY: KELLSTADT FARM, BRIMFIELD, IL OWNED BY: BAILEY & SHELBY PEARL, DUQUOIN, IL
Division Winners
Polled Champion Division 1 Spring Heifer Calf- PURPLE HB MYRTLE 69K ET - BRED BY: PURPLE REIGN CATTLE COMPANY- TOULON, IL OWNED BY: MAKENNA, TESSA SMITH, AUSTIN SMITH, HUBERTUS, WI, Polled Champion Senior Yearling Female- AR D41A REVA H21- BRED BY: APPLE RIDGE FARMSSALEM, IL OWNED BY: HALEIGH B FERGUSON, SMITHTON, MO, Horned Champion Senior Heifer Calf- PURPLE ELEANOR 125J - BRED BY: PURPLE REIGN CATTLE COMPANY- TOULON, IL OWNED BY: JETTIE FUNDERBURGH, STEPHENVILLE, TX, Horned Champion Intermediate Yearling Female- PURPLE LEVITA 100J ET - BRED BY: PURPLE REIGN CATTLE COMPANY- TOULON, IL OWNED BY: SARA ROSE SULLIVAN, DUNLAP, IA, Horned Reserve Champion Spring Yearling Female- LSC JAYDA 106J ET - BRED BY: SOPHIA LOWERSCLINTON, IL OWNED BY: HOUSTON, DENTON, & CLAYTON STAPLETON, CLINTON, IL, Horned Reserve Champion Junior Yearling Female- PERKS 1502 MARY JO 1002 ET- BRED BY: PERKS RANCH, ROCKFORD, IL OWNED BY: TAYLOR KENDALL & THOMAS KADE BOATMAN, ROCKFORD, IL, Horned Champion Senior Yearling Female- BP SP EF 88X HENRIETTA 45H ET- BRED BY: KELLSTADT FARM, BRIMFIELD, IL OWNED BY: BAILEY & SHELBY PEARL, DUQUOIN, IL
Open Show
Class Winner
Class 1- MMM VH MISS DIANA H43 ET- BRED BY: ASHLEY MOORE- PIASA, IL OWNED BY: BROOKE BAIN, LAWTON, OK, Class 6- PURPLE HB FLATLINER 108K ET- BRED BY: PURPLE REIGN CATTLE COMPANY- TOULON, IL OWNED BY: RILEY GREGORY RHODES, CARLINVILLE, IL, Class 7- HAWK DARA 19K ET- BRED BY: HAWK LIVESTOCK- EARLVILLE, IL OWNED BY: LANDON L & COLLIN DEATSMAN, LEESBURG, IN, Class 10- PERKS SJ FG TEETER 2033BRED BY: PERKS RANCH- ROCKFORD, IL OWNED BY: THOMAS KADE & TAYLOR KENDALL BOATMAN, ROCKFORD, IL, Class 26- PURPLE LEVITA 100J ET- BRED BY: PURPLE REIGN CATTLE COMPANY- TOULON, IL OWNED BY: SARA ROSE SULLIVAN, DUNLAP, IA, Class 28- HAWK MYLA 39J ET- BRED BY: HAWK LIVESTOCK, EARLVILLE, IL OWNED BY: PAIGE LEMENAGER, HUDSON, IL, Class 37- BP SP EF 88X HENRIETTA 45H ET- BRED BY: KELLSTADT FARM, BRIMFIELD, IL OWNED BY: BAILEY & SHELBY PEARL, DUQUOIN, IL, Class 38AR D41A REVA H21- BRED BY: APPLE RIDGE FARMS- SALEM, IL OWNED BY: HALEIGH B FERGUSON, SMITHTON, MO
Division Winners
Polled Champion Division 1 Spring Heifer Calf- PURPLE HB FLATLINER 108K ETBRED BY: PURPLE REIGN CATTLE COMPANY- TOULON, IL OWNED BY: RILEY GREGORY RHODES, CARLINVILLE, IL, Polled Reserve Champion Division 2 Spring Heifer Calf- PERKS SJ FG TEETER 2033- BRED BY: PERKS RANCH- ROCKFORD, IL OWNED BY: THOMAS KADE & TAYLOR KENDALL BOATMAN, ROCKFORD, IL, Horned Champion Intermediate Yearling Female- PURPLE LEVITA 100J ET- BRED BY: PURPLE REIGN CATTLE COMPANY- TOULON, IL OWNED BY: SARA ROSE SULLIVAN, DUNLAP, IA, Horned Champion Senior Yearling Female- BP SP EF 88X HENRIETTA 45H ET- BRED BY: KELLSTADT FARM, BRIMFIELD, IL OWNED BY:
BAILEY & SHELBY PEARL, DUQUOIN, IL, Polled Champion Senior Yearling FemaleAR D41A REVA H21- BRED BY: APPLE RIDGE FARMS- SALEM, IL OWNED BY: HALEIGH B FERGUSON, SMITHTON, MO, Horned Champion Cow- Calf PairMMM VH MISS DIANA H43 ET- BRED BY: ASHLEY MOORE- PIASA, IL OWNED BY: BROOKE BAIN, LAWTON, OK, Polled Reserve Champion Cow-Calf Pair- AR SCB 4051 RACHEL 913E- BRED BY: KATIE HELEN BURNS- COULTERVILLE, IL
OWNED BY: HALEIGH B FERGUSON, SMITHTON, MO
Paige Lemenager
Polled
Paige Lemenager
Bull Show Results
Class Winners
2023 Cattlemen’s Congress Show Continued
Oklahoma City, Okla. | Jan. 5 | Jason Hoffman, Neb.
Class 1- LF 8121 HOMEWRECKER 2150 - BRED BY: CONNOR RHOADS- PARIS, IL OWNED BY: CONNOR RHOADS, PARIS, IL, Class 4- PURPLE SANTANA 101K ET- BRED BY: PURPLE REIGN CATTLE COMPANY- TOULON, IL OWNED BY: PURPLE REIGN CATTLE COMPANY, TOULON, IL, Class 29- STNY LEADER 024- BRED BY: STONE CREEK CATTLE CO- FINDLAY, IL OWNED BY: JIBBEN POLLED HEREFORDS, FORT WORTH, TX STONE CREEK CATTLE CO, FINDLAY, IL
Division Winners
Polled Reserve Champion Spring Bull Calf- LF 8121 HOMEWRECKER 2150 - BRED BY: CONNOR RHOADS- PARIS, IL OWNED BY: CONNOR RHOADS, PARIS, IL, Horned Reserve Champion Spring Bull Calf- PURPLE SANTANA 101K ET- BRED BY: PURPLE REIGN CATTLE COMPANY- TOULON, IL OWNED BY: PURPLE REIGN CATTLE COMPANY, TOULON, IL, Polled Champion Senior Bull- STNY LEADER 024- BRED BY: STONE CREEK CATTLE CO- FINDLAY, IL OWNED BY: JIBBEN POLLED HEREFORDS, FORT WORTH, TX STONE CREEK CATTLE CO, FINDLAY, IL, Horned Reserve Champion Senior Bull- SLC 55C RAMBLIN MAN 7H - BRED BY: CORY STUMPF- COLUMBIA, IL OWNED BY: SARA MCCANN HARFST, JACKSONVILLE, OR
Pen Show Results
Pen of 3 Bull Champion Spring Bull Calves- PERKS RANCH
2023 National Western Stock Show
Denver, Colo. | Jan. 3-22
Junior Show Results
Class 110- HAWK RYDER 37J ET- BRED BY: HAWK LIVESTOCK- EARLVILLE, IL OWNED BY: LANE &LOGAN CADY, NEW WINDSOR, MD, Class 112- HAWK MURPHY 14J ET- BRED BY: HAWK LIVESTOCK- EARLVILLE, IL OWNED BY: KINNICK PAULSEN, PRESTON, IA, Class 210- HAWK MYLA 39J ET- BRED BY: HAWK LIVESTOCK- EARLVILLE, IL OWNED BY: PAIGE LEMENAGER, HUDSON, IL
Division Winners
Horned Champion Intermediate Yearling Female- HAWK RYDER 37J ET- BRED BY: HAWK LIVESTOCK- EARLVILLE, IL OWNED BY: LANE &LOGAN CADY, NEW WINDSOR, MD
Horned Champion Female, Horned Champion Spring Yearling Female
HAWK MURPHY 14J ET- BRED BY: HAWK LIVESTOCKEARLVILLE, IL OWNED BY: KINNICK PAULSEN, PRESTON, IA
HAWK MURPHY 14J ET- BRED BY: HAWK LIVESTOCK- EARLVILLE, IL OWNED BY: KINNICK PAULSEN, PRESTON, IA
Polled Premier Breeder
Hawk Livestock
2023 Illinois Beef Expo Junior Show
Springfield, IL | Feb. 24-25 | Jon Sweeney & Andy Higgins
Photos by Cindy Livestock Photography
Champion Hereford Steer Ring A, Reserve Champion Ring B
Shown by Maci Brooks
Reserve Champion Polled
Hereford Heifer Ring A
Shown by Kinnick Paulsen
Reserve Champion Horned
Hereford Heifer Ring A, Champion Horned Hereford Heifer Ring B
Shown by Blakely Storey
Reserve Champion Hereford Steer Ring A, Champion Ring B
Shown by Stetson Storey
Champion Polled Hereford
Heifer Ring B
Shown by Reed Naughton
Reserve Champion Horned
Hereford Heifer Ring B
Shown by Nolan Lee
Champion Polled Hereford
Heifor Ring A, Reserve
Champion Ring B
Shown by Morgan Richardson
Champion Horned Hereford
Heifer Ring A
Shown by Mattie Harward
UPDATES UPDATES
ILLINOIS JUNIOR HEREFORD ASSOCIATION
IJHA UPDATES:
The Illinois Junior Hereford Association Board of Directors and Advisors held a conference call on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, to further discuss and plan the upcoming year and 2023 Preview Show in Sandwich, IL. The IJHA would like to thank Crane Herefords and Chapman Herefords for volunteering to host, and we cannot wait to see everyone June 16, 2023 – June 18, 2023, in Sandwich! Listed below are important information and updates regarding the 2023 Preview Show.
GENERAL INFO:
WHEN: Friday, June 16, 2023 - Sunday, June 18, 2023
WHERE: DeKalb County Fairgrounds
(aka - Sandwich Fair)
1401 Suydam Rd, Sandwich IL, 60548
SCHEDULE:
THURSDAY:
• Grounds open at 6 p.m. for set up. PLEASE DO NOT ARRIVE BEFORE 6 p.m.
FRIDAY:
ENTRIES:
• Entires will be available May 1, 2023
• DUE JUNE 1, 2023
NO late entires will be accepted
• Entries are $25/head.
HOTELS:
There is a block of rooms reserved at: Montcler Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham 3300 Drew Ave Sandwich, IL 60548
1-630-273-6000
Hotel has a 30-day cancellation policy
Neighboring town, Yorkville, is about 20 minutes away for other hotels.
Camping will be available on the grounds for $30/night and can be purchased on your entry forms.
IMPORTANT: 30-day room cancellation policy
CHANGE: Check-in – 2-4:00 p.m.
• CHANGE: Sales Academy, Future Professionals Contest Interviews and Hereford Bowl Test - 4-6:00 p.m.
• Hereford Homeroom - a leadership training seminar - will begin at 6:00. All juniors are invited to attend (6:00-7:30 p.m.). Pizza will be provided
SATURDAY:
• Opening Ceremonies - 8:00 a.m.
• Fitting Contest – 8:15 a.m.
• Showmanship - 9:00 a.m.
• Bred and Owned Show begins at the conclusion of showmanship
• Cow/Calf, Bulls, B&O Heifers, Steers
• Scholarship Interviews and Speech Contest – Approximately 30 minutes after the conclusion of the show.
• Junior Meeting – 5:30 p.m.
• Banquet – 7:00 p.m.
SUNDAY:
• Owned Heifer Show – 8:00 a.m.
NJHA UPDATES:
• Fed Steer Shootout Field Day
• April 15, 2023 - Scott City, KS
• IJHA Preview Show
• Friday, June 16, 2023 - Sunday, June 18, 2023 - Sandwich, IL
• Theme: ILLINI
• JNHE 2023 - MAD DASH TO THE HEREFORD BASH
• July 8 - July 14, 2023 - Madison, WI
• Faces of Leadership-Columbus, OH
NEW FOR 2023:
The Illinois Junior Hereford Association will be using, “Showman, - A Livestock Show Management Software,” for the entry system for the 2023 IJHA Preview Show. The board is excited about this change and hopes that the members find it to be more convenient. More information to come shortly. In the meantime, if you have any questions contact IJHA Secretary, Molly Biggs.
OUTSTANDING MEMBER AWARD:
Nominations for the IJHA Outstanding Member will be made electronically during the entry process and due June 1st. IJHA members can nominate individuals who they believe are deserving of this award. Voting will be held during check-in and awarded during the IJHA Banquet, Saturday, June 17, 2023.
NOTICE: RULE CHANGE
Following the NJHA and JNHE rule change the IJHA will be following this rule change.
The change states, “NEW FOR 2023 - 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.”
IJHA OFFICER CONTACTS:
Morgan Richardson, President (815) 871-2868 m.richardson5254@gmail.com
Kade Boatman, Vice President (779) 774- 5140 kadeboatman@gmail.com
The National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) isn’t slowing down a beat and is continuing to drive forward into the year. This month is the time for preparation, as announcements for the BOLD Leadership conference, the Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) and the 2023 Faces of Leadership all start to come to the surface.
The rules and updates for all JNHE contests and cattle are live online. Make sure to go check out hereford.org/jnhe to stay up to date on any updates and start practicing for the contests this summer. Additionally, stay on the lookout for the Spring Hereford Youth Foundation of America (HYFA) and National Hereford Women scholarship and award applications to be posted this month. Scholarships and award applications including the prospect and junior golden bulls awards will be due on April 1.
Junior National Hereford Expo
A new rule for the steer show will take effect during the 2023 VitaFerm Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) in Madison, Wis., July 8-14. This rule was voted on and installed by the NJHA board. The new rule reads as follows:
“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.” Links to the full 2023 JNHE Rules and Regulations can be found at https://hereford.org/youth/jnhe/.
Dates and Deadlines
HYFA, NJHA and National Hereford Women Scholarship and Award Deadline - April 1, 2023
President’sNote President’sNote
Here we are again on the first of March and the weather couldn’t be any more unpredictable. The weatherman said it might rain or possibly could get 2-14 inches of snow. Ahh, the wonders of living in the northwest corner of Illinois. One thing about snow in March though, it doesn’t stay around for very long.
Another Illinois Beef Expo has come and gone. The weather this year wasn’t too bad. For us it started off a little dicey, as we had ice and some snow in the northern counties. We were one of the lucky ones, as we were without power for only about 4 hours. Some of our friends to the north were without power for a few days. By Saturday and Sunday the weather had turned around and was tolerable. The IBA Performance Tested Bull Sale on Thursday was well attended and the bulls sold very well. On Friday there was a new sale, Multi-breed Female Sale, that Ryan Haefner spearheaded. A crowded Artisan Building was on hand that afternoon to see a very nice set of heifers and a few select bred heifers sell. Hopefully this is just the start of a great new sale opportunity. Then on Saturday night another new sale was added, The Collection was a sale of several lots of very high end special frozen genetic lots. Lots of very reputable breeders from not only Illinois, but from around the country offered up some very intriguing genetic lots. Illinois Simmental were well represented in all of these sales. Congratulations to the breeders and the buyers on their success.
Friday night, our Illinois Simmental Association held its annual banquet and awards presentation in the Artisan Building. Every year I am nervous as heck this will run way late into Friday night, but this year we were done by 8:45 p.m. and cleaned up by 9. A big thank you to all that attended and especially to the rest of the Simmy board for making this run so smoothly. I couldn’t do it without all of you. The senior board honored the following: Breeder of the Year - Tree Lane Farms; Exhibitor of The Year - Claire Dorsey; Member of the Year - Emily Adcock; Pioneer Breeder - Northland Farms, Jay Book; Builder of the Breed - Jim Bloomberg Family. The following juniors were awarded honors: Rick Haefner Scholarship - Claire Dorsey and Anna Webel; Junior Leadership Award - Taylor Hendel; Junior Achievement Award - Colt Roeder; Senior Leadership Award - Emerson Tarr; Senior Achievement Award - Millie Lashmett. The juniors were also recognized for their success in the showring by receiving a blanket with the IJSA logo. To close out our banquet, our annual Junior Auction Fundraiser had a special guest auctioneer, junior member Luke Gilbert. He tried his hand at auctioneering for us and did a great job. He did tell me he thought it was way easier to do this at home and not in front of quite as big of crowd. I know last year’s guest auctioneer was very thankful we found someone else for this year’s auction, right Chuck. Our junior advisors and the kids do a great job of helping with this event. Also a big thank you to Josie Webel for taking pictures for us.
The junior show got started right away Saturday morning with the market animal show, and the start of the breeding show followed that well into the night. Sunday the heifer show resumed and lasted all day and night as well. I heard there were close to 800 head shown this year in a 2 ring format. By 10 p.m. everything was wrapped up in the rings with two purebred Simmental heifers in the top five. Congratulations to the Schick and Roeder families.
As we head into spring I hope everyone is having a safe calving season. A lot of bull sales will be held in the next couple of months. Make sure you get out and talk to all of our great Simmental breeders throughout the state about purchasing your next herdsire. Be sure to check out our website and the IJSA Facebook page for any upcoming events. Summer show season will be here before you know it.
Scott Frederick, ISA President
2023 Illinois Simmental Association Annual Banquet and Awards Presentation
February 24
Breeder of the Year Tree Lane Farms
Exhibitor of the Year
Claire Dorsey
Senior Leadership Award
Emerson Tarr
Rick Haefner Scholarship
Claire Dorsey and Anna Webel
Builder of the Breed
Jim and Mary Bloomberg and Family
Junior Leadership Award
Taylor Hendel
Member of the Year
Emily Adcock
Senior Achievement Award
Millie Lashmett
IJSA Princess Maci Brooks
2023 Illinois Beef Expo Junior Show
Springfield, IL | Feb. 24-25 | Jon Sweeney & Andy Higgins
Photos by Cindy Livestock Photography
Champion Simmental Steer Ring A, Reserve Champion Ring B
Shown by Kylie Gillespie
3rd Overall Heifer Ring A, Reserve Champion Simmental Ring A, Champion Simmental Ring B
Shown by Colt Roeder
Champion Simmental Steer Ring B
Shown by Jerod Bressner
4th Overall Ring A, Champion % Simmental
Shown by Preston Hartman
Grand Champion Overall Heifer Ring A, 3rd Overall Ring B, Champion Simmental Ring A, Reserve Champion Ring B
Shown by Conley Schick
Reserve Champion % Simmental Ring A, Champion % Simmental Ring B
Shown by Breckyn Bloomberg
Other winners: Reserve Champion Simmental Steer Ring A: Jeron Johnson, Reserve Champion % Simmental Ring B: Carter Hoge
2023 Annual Shorthorn Banquet
$7,000 Raised in Fundraiser Newly Crowned Lassies
Newly Elected ISA Board Junior Recognition & Awards
2023 Illinois Shorthorn Lassies
Brooklynn Hulmes (Queen), Masyn Riggins (Princess), Lilie Perry (Princess)
ISA Board (L to R): Larry Wilson, Dave Steck, Kenny Lorenz, Doug North, Zach Fanning, Doug Rincker, Luke Turner, Marinda Behrends
2023 Illinois Beef Expo Junior Show
Springfield, IL | Feb. 24-25 | Jon Sweeney & Andy Higgins
Photos by Cindy Livestock Photography
Champion Shorthorn Steer
Ring A, Reserve Champion
Ring B
Shown by Zoe Johnson
Reserve Champion Shorthorn
Plus Steer Rings A and B
Shown by Kinnick Paulsen
Reserve Champion Shorthorn
Heifer Ring B
Shown by Alexa Turner
Reserve Champion Shorthorn
Plus Heifer Ring B
Shown by Ella James
Reserve Champion Shorthorn
Steer Ring A, Champion Ring B
Shown by Lane Weber
Champion Shorthorn Heifer
Rings A and B
Shown by Maddox Reedy
Champion Shorthorn Plus
Heifer Ring A
Shown by Colton Anderson
Champion Shorthorn Plus
Steer Rings A and B
Shown by Colton Foose
Reserve Champion Shorthorn
Heifer Ring A
Shown by Maddox Reedy
Reserve Champion Shorthorn
Plus Heifer Ring B, Champion Ring A
Shown by Addyson Onion
Purebred Breeders
Illinois Beef, printed bi-monthly, is the official publication of the IBA. It serves as the voice of Illinois’ 12,000 beef producers.
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