Southdown Journal - Spring 2024

AMERICAN SOUTHDOWN BREEDERS’ ASSOCIATION

Ann Fry, Executive Secretary

P.O. Box 556

Otterbein, IN 47970

Phone: (765) 237-2576 (Office)

Email: ann@southdownsheep.org

Stephanie Formo, Junior Coordinator

Phone: (320) 424-2978

Email: stephanieformo@gmail.com

Katherine Kuykendall, Editor

Phone: (336) 302-6162

Email: katherinekuykendall@gmail.com

Website: southdownsheep.org

Facebook:

American Southdown Breeders Association

PRINTED BY:

SUTHERLAND PRINTING, MONTEZUMA, IOWA

Spring 2024 Southdown Journal

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Hope everyone has had a successful lambing season, with the pictures that have been posted it looks like the breed is on track for another good year with a lot of quality sheep available to purchase which leads to our first big event of the year being the National Sale at the Ohio Showcase Sale in Greenville. I would encourage everyone to dig deep and bring some good ones to match last year’s record setting sale. We hope to see everyone there. Along with the sale we will again be having our Kickoff Show on Saturday afternoon - you can buy them in the morning and show them that afternoon so take advantage of it!

I am once again looking forward to working with our Junior board and all the activities they have planned. If you need to be inspired just spend some time with this group. We appreciate all the time Stephanie puts in to working with them.

would encourage everyone to plan on attending the Classic weekend in June. Plans are in the works to make it another fun weekend for everyone. Take time and look through this issue - we have included a lot of info on all of our programs. Also in this issue is an article from the 1967 Southdown Handbook that I found interesting - how things from back then apply now. It’s worth the read - thanks to Mark Johnson for sharing it.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the passing of our former secretary Florence Strouse. She was always a pleasure to deal with and serve the breed well. Our thoughts go out to her family.

As we move into this year, I think we can make it another good year for the breed if we all act with integrity and character and continue to make our breed the one everyone wants to be a part of. My phone is always on, and I look forward to seeing everyone soon.

Ed Keeny

ASBA Board of Directors, President

SECRETARY’S MESSAGE

There is a lot of information in this issue of the Southdown Journal you won’t want to miss. Please take time to read each page carefully. The Board of Directors has been working hard to keep the Southdown breed moving forward. They have collectively decided to bring in new programs as well as modify some existing ones. One of the new ventures is the National Southdown Junior Achievement Program. This new structure will allow all participating junior members to receive national recognition, regardless of what shows they attend or where their sheep place. You can read more about this program on page 20.

The board has also opened the Futurity nominations to include off-farm sales. If you are selling your sheep publicly off your farm, whether that’s through an open house, a production sale or a bid-board sale, those sheep can be nominated for the Futurity program. Breeders can utilize this new option to drive traffic to their farm and talk to the buyers about how the Futurity program works. You can find out how to nominate ewes and market lambs on our website.

As you will read in Mallory’s Junior Board President message, the AJSA Junior Board has been working equally hard. They are increasing the Southdown prizes and social media, making decisions about awards and prizes, and encouraging junior members to be involved. They have some great educational seminars planned for The Classic. Saturday of The Classic will also be our National Junior Show, this year. We hope to see many of you in Richmond, Indiana, on June 8-9.

To keep the Southdown breed moving forward, we must keep the needs of the breeders and members in mind. We want to hear from you, so please reach out to a board member with any ideas or suggestions you have. The list of board members and their contact information is listed below. Let’s work together to keep the Southdown breed the one to be part of.

ASBA Executive Secretary Ann Fry

Ed Keeny, PA, President: 717-443-0354

Patty Abell, ID, Vice President: 503-201-6904

John Nixon, CA: 209-620-4184

Aaron Jennings, TX: 979-204-7952

Jeff Repasky, MN: 612-282-7782

Troy Lobdell, WI: 608-482-1502

JJ Maddox, OK: 580-613-0045

Barbara Bishop, SD: 608-347-5580

Dan Smerchek, WI: 715-347-1957

Jim Davis, IL: 815-228-5967

L.C. Scramlin, MI: 248-634-3043

Jessy Shanks, TN: 865-363-9250

Brian Forsee, KY: 502-484-2801

Mike Crowder, IN: 765-366-3135

Kelly Wright, NH: 603-852-8241

Matthew Sponaugle, VA: 540-383-7983

PROPOSED BY-LAW AMENDMENT

This is a proposed amendment to the by-laws that will need to be voted on at the Annual Meeting in November.

Amendment to the by-laws: Article VII, paragraph 1 - have the following language added:

“Notice may be by email to adult members qualified to vote at the email address that is listed on the application for registration or on statement accompanying their dues payment. All notices may be by mail or electronic means at the last address they conducted business with this Association.”

DNA PLUS PROGRAM

As a reminder, the DNA Plus Program is available for Southdown rams. Eligible rams are non-carriers of Hereditary Chondrodysplasia (spider syndrome - NN), Ectodermal Dysplasia (“Hairy Lamb Syndrome” - EDF) and Ovine Dwarfism (FF) and contain a minimum of one R at codon 171.

The DNA Plus Program is a voluntary designation by the breeder.

The DNA results from the genetic testing company must be sent to the ASBA office. The DNA will be printed on the DNA plus registration paper. If you would like to upgrade an existing registration paper on a qualifying ram, please send the existing paper and the DNA results to the ASBA office. An upgraded DNA Plus paper will cost $10. Cost for a new registration DNA Plus paper is the same as a regular registration paper ($6 for rams less than 1 year, $8 for rams 1-3 years and $15 for rams older than 3).

You do not have to use Gene Check to submit DNA results, however, we do want to let you know Gene Check is offering a Southdown Association Members package price. Animals can be tested for Codon 171, Dwarf, Hairy Lamb and Spider for $40.

As a reminder, in November 2022, the Board of Directors voted to adopt the following changes to the Policies and Procedures manual regarding DNA testing effective January 1, 2023:

• Rules apply to any show sponsored by the American Southdown Breeders’ Association or any show that chooses to adopt the ASBA policies.

• The Classic weekend shows will be added to the list of shows where DNA samples are taken. The Classic has also been added to the list of shows an exhibitor will be barred from showing at for 5 years if they refuse to have their animal tested or refuse to forfeit their win nings.

• Upon the conclusion of the show, DNA samples will be taken on Grand and Reserve Champion Ewe and Ram, Champion and Reserve Bred and Owned Ewe and Ram (if different animals are chosen) and Junior and Senior Champion and Reserve Ewe and Ram.

• Any animal at an ASBA-sanctioned show testing as a carrier (FD) worse (DD) of the Ovine Dwarfism will have registration removed. previous or future offspring of said animal will also be ineligible for registration.

• All breeding ewes and rams must meet the DNA requirements for an association-sponsored sale.

With sadness, the ASBA announces the passing of past ASBA Executive Secretary/ Treasurer Florence Strouse, who passed away on Sunday, December 10, 2023. Florence was employed by the ASBA from 1956, and served as the Executive Secretary/ Treasurer from 1976-1989 (the fifth person to hold the position).

Florence was hired following her high school graduation in 1956 to work in the office of the previous ASBA Secretary, Dr. W.L. Henning. Dr. Henning was the head of the Animal Science Department at Penn State University and for four years served as Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Agriculture. Given his busy schedule, he spent limited time in the office and the office workers were integral in getting registration papers completed.

Florence married within a few months of her hiring and welcomed a son, Gerald, in 1960, and a daughter, Cindy, in 1968. Southdown registrations declined in the early 1970s and Florence became the sole office worker in Dr. Henning’s office.

Dr. Henning retired in 1975, and following interviews in Louisville, Florence was hired as the fifth ASBA Executive Secretary and Treasurer. Upon her hiring, the office moved from its downtown location in State College, PA to her home in Bellefonte, PA. Her daughter Cindy remembers her working from home from her basement as the children were growing up.

Perhaps unusual for a breed secretary, Florence had no history in sheep and was hired for her secretarial skills. Past ASBA members are quick to remember and appreciate Florence’s accuracy and diligence.

Past Secretary Gary Jennings explained, “She was dedicated to the breed, and dedicated to the office. Extremely diligent, extremely accurate - everything you would expect from a good secretary.”

Former ASBA President Gary Kwisnek reiterated these sentiments, noting, “She was so efficient, such a good secretary. She was the backbone of our breed.”

A private person by all accounts, Florence seemed to thrive behind the scenes in the ASBA office rather than attending events. However, she did attend NAILE annually, accompanied by her husband, John.

Champion Flock at the 1981 NAILE, owned by Ronald Wedel of Moundridge, Kansas (third from right, standing next to the queen). Florence Strouse is seen on the far right. Rich Gillmore is seen on the far left.

Florence retired in 1989 and was succeeded by Gary Jennings, who explained his experience meeting Florence, “She was a wonderful, wonderful lady and I treasured getting to know her. She struck me as a wonderful person.”

Indeed, the Southdown breed is indebted to her guidance throughout her years of serving the ASBA.

Written by Katherine Kuykendall, with thanks to Gary Jennings, Gary Kwisnek, and Cindy Bierly (Florence’s daughter) for their assistance. A 2005 article written by Kit Phelps was also used as a reference. Florence’s full obituary is printed below.

Florence Virginia (Walker) Strouse, 86, of State College, PA, passed away at Mount Nittany Hospital on Sunday, December 10, 2023. Born on January 21, 1937, in Bellefonte, she was the youngest child of the late George Thomas and Elsie Elverna (Shaffer) Walker. On June 8, 1956, at Green Grove Church in Spring Mills, she married her beloved husband of 67 years, John Lester Strouse, who survives her. They began their life in Pleasant Gap (in the Village of Peru) and later resided in Bellefonte for four decades until moving to a personal care facility in State College in 2020.

Florence was a graduate of State College High School and was employed as a secretary-treasurer for the American Southdown Breeder’s Association for 32 years.

She especially enjoyed playing piano, reading, crocheting, knitting, cross-stitch, puzzles, shopping, and spending time with family.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by one son, Gerald Strouse (Denise), one daughter, Cindy Bierly (Jonathan), two grandchildren, Alicia Boyer (Brandon), and Mark Bierly (Fiancée Trinity Witmer), two great-granddaughters, Addison and Autumn Boyer; one sister-in-law, Shirley Walker; and numerous nieces and nephews. Florence was preceded in death by her sisters Mildred Devlin, Ida Anderson, Adeline Lightner, Mary Gummo, Edna Louise Crock, and brothers Charles, James, Ray, and Russell.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date for family and friends. Burial will be private at Centre County Memorial Park in State College. Arrangements are under the direction of Wetzler Funeral Service, Inc. in Bellefonte. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Florence to a charity of the donor’s choice.

From left to right:

Samuel Prather

ASBA Secretary, 1882-1895

John G. Springer

ASBA Secretary, 1895-1900

Frank Springer

ASBA Secretary, 1900-1924

William L. Henning

ASBA Secretary, 1924-1975

The first four secretaries of the American Southdown Breeders Association. Photos courtesy Cindy Bierly. Florence Strouse was the fifth, directly succeeding Dr. W.L. Henning.

Past secretaries Gary Jennings and Florence Strouse at the Nittany Lion Shrine in State College, PA.

Article

Written by: Alex McKenzie, 1024 Will Rogers Drive, Stillwater, Okla.

In reviewing the history of Southdown Sheep, it appears that the Southdown of yesterday was a much better sheep than is being produced today. They were more practical and economical, inasmuch as they were much larger and still had all the excellent fleshing qualities for which the Southdown breed has long been noted.

For example, it is pointed out in the history of the breed that rams of yesterday would weigh from 250 to 270 pounds and ewes up to 170 and over. How many Southdowns of today will even come close to these weights In fact, very few will reach the 200-pound mark.

We also note that lambs at three months of age would weigh 80 pounds or over and well over 100 pounds at six months. The records show these lambs were excellently finished; the meat well marbled and unsurpassed by any other breed for flavor, tenderness and texture. The hind saddle outweighed the front saddle by as much as eight pounds.

Southdown rams of yesterday were in great demand for crossbreeding purposes for the production of market lambs. They were the one breed that could sire lambs from commercial ewes which would be ready for market when they reached market weight. This helped increase their popularity.

Now, the questions arise, “What has happened to the breed in the past thirty or forty years? Why has the demand for Southdown rams for crossbreeding purposes dropped to almost zero?” Let us look back 30 or more years. At that time there seemed to be a trend in all classes of livestock for the production of shorter, more compact animals; a change from the larger more practical kind. This was true in all breeds, beef cattle included, and Southdowns were no exception.

Southdown breeders, as a whole, followed the trend, and some started selecting and producing a shorter, fancier animal with emphasis on a really woolly head and ear, and also wool down to the feet. In order to attain these fancy points, the conformation of the body was somewhat neglected and the results were that the commercial breeder began looking elsewhere for larger type rams for use on his ewes.

The breeder placed the blame for this predicament on the showring judge, and the judge promptly replied that he could only place the type of animal presented for his judgment. Regardless of who is to blame, I am sure all will agree that the change was very detrimental to the breed.

Because of this setback for the breed, some so-called experts among us are predicting that the Southdown is on the way out, but my humble prediction is that the Southdown is on the way up to the front and to its place of prominence in the sheep industry.

The Southdown of tomorrow is already in the making. Many dedicated Southdown breeders are looking to the future and are selecting and breeding Southdowns that will eventually lead to the sheep of tomorrow. During the past few years, breeders are showing considerable progress in producing a more practical Southdown. They

Year after year, at show after show, the championship honors and blue ribbons go to Southdowns, time after time. Here the winning Southdown is being selected at the 1956 National Show.

are placing emphasis on more size and scale, with longer hind saddles, but still maintaining the true breed character and color markings that have been prevalent for so many years.

In order to get the Southdown back to its rightful place of prominence in the sheep industry, and regain its popularity with the commercial breeder, it may be necessary to sacrifice to some extent some of the fancy points; namely, heavy wool covering on the face and legs, and be willing to accept a Southdown with longer legs which will be necessary to go along with more body length and overall size in order to have a well balanced sheep. This can be accomplished and still maintain the excellent qualities that made the breed famous.

The Southdown has excelled in carcass quality for a long time and the Southdown of tomorrow will far excel those of today. They will be the type that can produce and sire lambs which will have much better “gainability” than those of today. They will then meet the demand for more red meat in the rib, loin and leg. The wool should be uniform grade over the entire body - preferably of half blood and good staple length. The breeders are started in the right direction and by proper selection, they will reach this goal.

In selecting the Southdown market lamb, I feel that the type and finish of a good market lamb is becoming well established. There is still some difference of opinion in the amount of outside finish required to make an ideal carcass. One thing is sure, the excessively fat lamb is a lamb of the past. It is my opinion that the outside fat finish should not be less than two-tenths and not more than four-tenths, preferably around three-tenths of an inch, for ideal covering.

It has been my observation that a carcass with around three-tenths shows better marbling and the lean will not turn dark after hanging in the cooler for a few days. A chain store carcass buyer once remarked that a carcass with less than twenty-five hundredths of an inch of outside covering of fat is not a saleable carcass.

Regardless of the difference of opinion as to the correct amount of outside covering, a top market lamb must be well muscled, wide over the top, wide and deep in the loin, long and wide in the rump, full and plump in the leg, and full and deep in the shoulder.

The Southdown of tomorrow is on its way. The Southdown has a real good future. They are not on the way out. They are on the way up and in.

Note by Mark Johnson

This article first appeared in the 1957 Southdown Journal. “Southdowns: Yesterday - Today - Tomorrow” was written by Alex McKenzie, long time Shepherd at Oklahoma State University. Alex was a native Scottsman and was hired by OSU in 1928 as the first OSU Sheep Farm Herdsman. Alex bred, fed and shown many champions for Oklahoma State at both the Royal and the International Livestock Exposition in Chicago. During his tenure at Oklahoma State the college exhibited the Grand Champion Wether at the Chicago International five times. Twice with a Shropshire, once with a Southdown, and was the first to win the show with a Hampshire and also a Dorset. He guided the school’s flocks to numerous National Champion Rams and Ewes during his 38 year career at OSU. Alex’s influence extended well beyond the sheep flocks at Oklahoma State. He mentored many student and breeders. He was instrumental in Duron Howard’s early success with Southdowns and was a respected judge. Oklahoma State Department of Animal Science awards an Alex McKenze Scholarship each year to a full time student that has sheep interest with preference given to students that work at the OSU Sheep Center.

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Greg Ahart, CA

John Mrozinski, CO

Charlie Hild, IA

Tom Willwerth, IA

Brad Angus, IL

Brad Ellerbrock, IL

Craig Beckmier, IL

Cruz Nichols, IL

Dustin Cruit, IL

Lanny Bowman, IL

Mark Johnson, IL

Reed Baer, IL

Tucker Beckmier, IL

BJ Rule, IN

Joel Parker, IN

Kraig Bowers, IN

Neal Knapp, IN

Nick Miniter, IN

Ricky Burns, IN

Stacy Scramlin Zuelly, IN

Megan Ritter, IN

Billy Wade, IN

Chris Mullinex, KS

Joe Hobbs, KS

Scott Shaake, KS

Brian Forsee, KY

Nick Miller, KY

Patrick Padgett, KY

Terry Burks, KY

Kyle Thayer, MA

Matt Scramlin, MI

Thomas Buckham, MI

Brian Schermerhorn, MN

Jeff Repasky, MN

Bobby Spoonster, MO

Brad Payne, MO

Brent Jennings, NC

Travis Hoffman, ND

Adam Heffelfinger, OH

Alex Wolf, OH

Eric Bruns, OH

Eric Shellhouse, OH

Farabee McCarthy, OH

Gary Saylor, OH

Jeff Neal, OH

Mike Stitzlein, OH

Tracy Dendinger, OH

Bart Cardwell, OK

Dakota Quickle, OK

Jeff Oldenburg, OK

Jimmy Davis, OK

JJ Maddox, OK

Mattie Lynn Haines, OK

Ed Keeny, PA

Evan Snyder, PA

Kyle Fleener, PA

Tim Fleener, PA

Tim Gadsby, PA

Troy Longenecker, PA

Don Hopkins, RI

Megan Nielson, SD

Michael Bishop, SD

Randell Von Krosigk, SD

Steven Skip Anderson, SD

Aaron Jennings, TX

Connor Brew, TX

Gary Jennings, TX

Josh Kouns, TX

Marvin Ensor, TX

Matt Kennedy, TX

Wesley Glass, TX

Will Dickson, TX

Scott Greiner, VA

Dan Smerchek, WI

Dan Spilde, WI

Kailen Smerchek, WI

Katherine Kuykendall, WI

Lance Miller, WI

Ryan Bingen, WI

Sara Kuykendall, WI

Troy Lobdell, WI

SOUTHDOWN SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED AT NAILE

In the program’s seventeenth year, three $1,000 scholarships were presented by the American Southdown Breeders Association to Benjamin Flanagan, Jordan Leininger, and Emily Robbins. They were introduced by the Scholarship Committee chairman, Barbara Bishop, at the Southdown Social during the NAILE. Applications for the 2024 scholarships are on the ASBA website.

Benjamin Flanagan, son of Scott & Mylea Flanagan, Ballinger, Texas, is a freshman at Texas A&M University. Pursuing a degree in Animal Science with a science option and a minor in Ag Communications, his long-term career plans involve becoming an agriculture lobbyist or being in pharmaceutical sales in agriculture.

Sheep ranching goes back 5 generations for Ben, contributing to his many areas of success in 4-H including being a member of state champion teams in both livestock judging and skillathon, advancing to national contests. Leadership roles included Texas 4-H Livestock Ambassador, Texas 4-H Council, and Texas Farm Bureau Youth Leadership Conference. Promotion of the Southdown breed has been a big part of his life as an active member and officer of his state junior Southdown association and showing his Southdowns at national junior shows in Texas, Missouri, Kansas, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and the North American in Louisville.

Jordyn Leininger, daughter of Thad & Rochelle Leininger, Pierceton, Indiana, is a freshman at Butler University. She is planning on becoming a nurse practitioner specializing in dermatology.

Jordyn has raised and shown Southdowns her entire life, never missing a NAILE, and as part of her 10 year 4-H career, highlighted by many honors at the Indiana State Fair including overall showmanship awards in both market lambs and breeding sheep. She joined FFA in sixth grade with success in state meats evaluation, state livestock skillathon, livestock judging, public speaking, talent contest, and culminating with gold in the state sheep proficiency. Jordyn competes in pageants to promote a cause about which she is passionate: “You Grow, Girl! Empowering Women Through Agriculture.” At Miss Indiana 2022 she was awarded the Joy of Life first runner-up, an award highlighting the work put into one’s platform.

Emily Robbins, daughter of Dan & Susan Robbins, Aurora, South Dakota, is freshman at South Dakota State University. She will double major in Ag Business and Ag Marketing with a possible minor in Animal Science for many career options within agriculture.

Her primary project area throughout 10 years in 4-H has been sheep and has grown into a flock of 20 registered Southdown ewes. Emily has taken her leadership roles at the club level to the state level as a State 4-H Ambassador, currently vice-president. Likewise, through FFA Emily has taken her chapter officer roles to the state level, currently serving as the 2023-24 South Dakota FFA Sentinel. She has shown her sheep in 4-H, FFA, open class, and Southdown Association shows and further promoted Southdowns by participating in the South Dakota Lead Line contest, making her own outfits from wool fabrics for it.

UPCOMING ASBA EVENTS

AJSA SPRING SPECTACULAR ONLINE SALE

Featuring donated ewe lambs and semen. 20% of each lot sold is donated directly to the Junior Association. Held at Integrity Livestock Sales - bidding closes Monday, April 15 at 9pm EST.

NATIONAL SALE & SPRING KICKOFF

Friday, May 10

8:00 AM Show - Judge: Brad Ellerbrock, IL

Following Dorpers/White Dorpers

The show will be broadcast live via YouTube. Live bidding for the sale will be available via BreedersWorld.

THE CLASSIC

National Southdown Junior Show

ALL SOUTHDOWN DOUBLE HEADER

Saturday, May 11

9:00 AM National Southdown Sale

Spring Kickoff Sheep must be in place

1:00 PM (or 1 hour following sale)

Spring Kickoff Junior Show

Judge: Cassie Wallpe

Anything purchased on the National Sale will have free entry into the kickoff show.

Sheep may arrive Friday, June 7 at any time. Check in is from 3:00 - 7:00 PM. Wether weigh in is from 6:30-7:30 PM. Also featuring a Fitting Clinic with Ryker Beckmier, Drew George, Maddie Hauger and Carson Knittel and a Showmanship Clinic with Wyatt Wierzbicki, Shaylee Maddox, Mallory Bowers & Hannah Needham.

Saturday, June 8

Judge: Jimmy Davis

9:00 AM Showmanship (Oldest starts)

Show to follow: Market Lambs, Rams, Ewes

6:00 PM AJSA Fun Night

ALL-AMERICAN JUNIOR SHOW

Sunday, June 9

Judge: Sam Mattingly

8:00 AM Show (Market Lambs, Rams, Ewes)

All sheep must be in place Thursday, July 4 at Noon. Sheep are released Sunday, July 7 following the conclusion of the Supreme Champion drive. Visit www.allamericanjuniorshow.com for a more detailed schedule. Other activities for juniors throughout the weekend include Skillathon, Judging Contest, Wool Show, and several social activities.

Friday, July 5

8:00 AM Opening Ceremonies

9:30 AM Showmanship

Saturday, July 6

7:30 AM Southdown Junior Show

Judge: Dan Spilde, WI

2024 JUNIOR BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mallory Bowers (President)

Maddie Hauger (Vice President)

Carissa Scheel (Board Secretary)

Wyatt Wierzbicki

Ryker Beckmier

Drew George

Kate Bowers

Marie Claire Des Rosiers

Hannah Needham

Carson Knittel

Shaylee Maddox

2023 JUNIOR BOARD OF DIRECTORS

We thank the outgoing directors for their service to the AJSA: Caroline Groth, Kailen Smerchek, Ellie Hanson, and Clay Schoen

MESSAGE FROM THE AJSA PRESIDENT

As your 2024 Junior Southdown Board President I am honored and ecstatic to announce that our team is working on many new projects for this year!! Be sure to check out the information for our Ohio mixer, the clinics and events happening at the Classic, and so much more for the remaining shows. We cannot wait to reach new members as well as to strengthen our connections with the current ones. We hope you are all ready to have fun and learn new things!

If you have any new ideas about something you would like to see in the future, please feel free to contact me! If you are interested in our mentorship program, please get ahold of me and Stephanie Formo so we can pair you up as soon as possible! I am so thankful that our organization allows us to get together and learn more about the breed we all love, and have fun in doing so! Can’t wait for another incredible year for the American Southdown Association!

Mallory Bowers

Mallory Bowers, AJSA President

EMMA HADY

Muscoda, Wisconsin

Age: 18

Grade: Senior in High School

Career Goal: My career goals are to get a degree in Education and possibly become a 4-H Educator.

How did you get started showing sheep, and specifically Southdowns? I started showing market lambs as a 4-H project. I wanted to start breeding my own market lambs and a friend suggested Southdowns as a breed I should consider. So, I bought my first Southdowns from Larry Mrozinski in 2017.

What has been your favorite part of being involved with Southdowns and the sheep industry in general? My favorite part of being involved with Southdowns is all of the people I have been able to meet and learn from. I really enjoy the breeding part of the industry and seeing what my lambs grow out to be.

What’s your favorite livestock show of the year, and why? My favorite show of the year is the Southdown Classic. I really like the fact that it is a Southdown only show and everyone gets together to play games including the adults.

What is your favorite sheep that you’ve shown so far? My favorite sheep that I have shown is my ram Bold Ruler that I purchased from Formos. It was because of him we started showing beyond the local shows. He still greets me everyday and does his spin for feed.

(Continued on the following page)

2024 ASBA REGIONAL SHOWS

WISCONSIN SHEEP & WOOL FESTIVAL

Entry deadline August 25. For more information, visit www.wisconsinsheepandwoolfestival.com.

GREAT PLAINS JR. BREEDING SHEEP SHOW

JUNE 21-22 • SIOUX FALLS, SOUTH DAKOTA

The 2024 Great Plains Regional Jr Southdown Show will be held in conjunction with the Great Plains Jr Breeding Sheep Show in Sioux Falls, SD, June 21-22. See the Great Plains Junior Breeding Sheep Show page on Facebook and enter using Showman.app.

NORTH EAST YOUTH SHEEP SHOW

Entry deadline June 10, 2024. Visit www.nesheep.org/north-east-youth-sheep-show for details.

EASTERN STATES EXPOSITION

SEPTEMBER 13-17 • WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS

Entry deadline August 15, 2024. Visit www.thebige.com for details.

What are some of your other hobbies outside of sheep? Some of my other hobbies outside of showing sheep include showing draft horses and poultry. I am also involved in sports, especially wrestling. (Editor’s note: Emma was 4th Overall at State Wrestling this year!)

What’s something that “sheep people” would be surprised to learn about you? That I am going to University of Wisconsin Oshkosh and be part of their first women’s wrestling team.

What do you consider your proudest achievement ? Creating a youth sheep class for kids K-2nd grade at our county fair.

Grab a partner for team showmanship - who’s with you? Claire Spilde, we met when I was showing draft horses found we were both involved with sheep and played the same sports.

Favorite food: Fondue

Favorite song or singer: Alan Jackson

NATIONAL JUNIOR RECOGNITION PROGRAM

Any Junior member of the AJSA who is under 21 years of age may apply. This program is based on activities over a junior member’s entire career. Points are awarded for showmanship, Southdown show results, Association contests, participating in Association activities, registrations, and genetic testing.

There are three levels of recognition; Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Bronze and Silver Awards can be earned at any age. The Gold Award, however, will be given to junior members that are 18 and above, and can only be awarded once. Junior members will be responsible for recording the points they have accumulated.

For more information on the National Junior Recognition Program and to download the record book, visit: www.southdownsheep.org/juniors/national-junior-recognition-program

If this is your first or second year showing Southdowns on a National level, we’d love to connect you with a mentor! One of our AJSA Board members will help answer questions you might have, introduce you to new friends, and be a lifetime connection for you in our breed association! Fill out the form at: www.southdownsheep.org/mentorship-form/

YEARLING EWE FUTURITY RESULTS

TOTAL PAYOUTS: $2,350

1. Carson Knittel, IL (Oldenburg Farms) $276.59

2. Alex Koch, IN (Brock Trew) $259.30

3. John Crowder, IN (Beau & Peyton Howe $242.01

4. Alivia Porter, IL (Jordyn Leininger) $224.73

5. Katie Anderson, IN (ELE Southdowns) $207.44

6. Jude Parker, IN (Forsee Southdowns) $190.15

7. Wyatt Wierzbicki, MO (Forsee Southdowns) $172.87

8. Maddie Hauger, IN (Forsee Southdowns) $155.58

9. Lucas Wilson, IN (A&M Ranch) $138.29

10. Carson Lobdell, WI (Kyle & Julie Wilson Family) $121.01

EARLY FALL EWE LAMB FUTURITY RESULTS

TOTAL PAYOUTS: $2,110

1. Hope Barker, IN (KDK Southdowns) $422.00

2. Drew George, MI (Forsee Southdowns) $375.11

3. Maddie Hauger, IN (Larkin Miller) $328.22

4. Evelyn Roehm, OH (Ephraim Fowler) $281.33

5. Kyliegha Daniels, WI (KDK Southdowns) $234.44

6. Ava Viel, IL (Formo Southdowns) $187.56

7. Trinity Young, WI (Forsee Southdowns) $140.67

8. Abbigale Cattrell, OH (Forsee Southdowns) $93.78

9. Abby Brown, IN (Forsee Southdowns) $46.89

LATE FALL EWE LAMB FUTURITY RESULTS

TOTAL PAYOUTS: $1,956

1. Landrey Krieger, IN (KDK Southdowns) $652.00

2. Wyatt Wierzbicki, MO (Forsee Southdowns) $521.60

3. Evelyn Roehm, OH (Forsee Southdowns) $391.20

4. Karley Buchanan, VA (Forsee Southdowns) $260.80

5. Abbigale Cattrell, OH (Megan Solder) $130.40

JANUARY EWE LAMB FUTURITY RESULTS

TOTAL PAYOUTS: $3,576

1. Henry Nielson, SD (Logan Beckmier) $715.20

2. Caleb Formo, WI (Kate Bowers) $635.73

3. Wyatt Wierzbicki, MO (Forsee Southdowns) $556.27

4. Braxton Sedwick, IN (Layne/Drew Hoeflinger) $476.80

5. John Crowder, IN (Alivia, Ainsley & Braylon Porter) $397.33

6. Lucas Wilson, IN (Bowers/Mitchell) $317.87

7. Ava Viel, IL (Darlington Downs) $238.40

8. Kieran Black, IL (Layne & Drew Hoeflinger) $158.93

9. Trinity Young, WI (KDK Southdowns) $79.47

FEBRUARY EWE LAMB FUTURITY RESULTS

TOTAL PAYOUTS: $1,645

1. Katie Drum, NY (Forsee Southdowns) $470.00

2. Alli Brennan, IN (Forsee Southdowns) $391.67

3. Brooke Young, TN (Knittel Livestock) $313.33

4. Hope Barker, IN (Howard Southdowns) $235.00

5. Maddie Hauger, IN (Nick Miller) $156.67

6. Kieran Black, IL (Bowers/Mitchell) $78.33

MARCH EWE LAMB FUTURITY RESULTS

TOTAL PAYOUTS: $775

1. Brooke Young, TN Northern Starr Livestock Services) $775.00

MARKET LAMB FUTURITY RESULTS

TOTAL PAYOUTS: $945

1. Nora Jackson, OH (Leggett Livestock) $315.00

2. Lillian Schut, MI (Forsee Southdowns) $252.00

3. Lilly Williamson, IN (Kuhn Mills Southdowns) $189.00

4. Allie Cashen, MI (Forsee Southdowns) $126.00

5. Lucas Wilson, IN (George Brothers) $63.00

Q: Can bred-and-owned sheep be part of the Futurity?

A: No. Only sheep that are sold publicly, either through online sales, live sales, or public off-the-farm sales, are eligible.

Q: How should the sheep I purchased be transferred?

A: Sheep must be transferred into one junior’s name only. That junior must be the one to show the head of the animal to collect points.

Q: Can I show a ewe in the market lamb division?

A: Yes, ewes or wethers can be shown in the market lamb division. The buyer must choose if the ewe lamb will be shown in the market or breeding and may only collect points for one division.

Q: Do wethers need to be registered?

A: No.

Q: When can I start turning in points?

A: The Futurity program starts after each NAILE Junior Breeding Ewe Show.

Q: Do I have to re-nominate a Yearling ewe?

A: Ewe lambs nominated at designated sales in the previous year plus ewe lambs purchased at the Stars of Louisville sale may compete as yearlings.

Q: Do I have to submit my own points?

A: Yes. Even if it is an ASBA-sanctioned show, you must submit your own points. The only show the ASBA tracks points is the NAILE Junior Breeding Ewe Show. Points must be submitted within 14 days of the show, or they will not be counted.

Q: How do I submit points?

A: You can either fill out a paper form and mail it to: ASBA, P.O. Box 556, Otterbein, IN 47970. You can also email it to ann@southdownsheep.org. There is also a Jotform on our website you can fill out and submit online. If you choose to submit online, be sure you receive a thank you email from Jotform. Otherwise, the submission did not go through, and you will need to submit it again.

Q: Can I submit points on more than one sheep?

A: Yes. There are seven Futurity divisions, and you can submit points for as many as you want. You can also submit points for multiple sheep in the same division. However, only your highest-placing sheep in that division will earn you awards and premiums.

Q: How much does the Futurity pay out?

A: All the nomination money is given back to the juniors who turn in points. Each division winner will receive a banner, and the animal with the highest points in their age group will receive a traveling trophy. The top 10 placing sheep of each division are awarded ribbons. The top 20 of each division receive premiums. If you submit points for multiple animals in one division, you will only receive payment and awards for the highest-placing sheep.

NEW FOR 2024

Southdown breeders can now nominate animals for the Futurity program off the farm!

All nominated animals must be advertised and offered for sale publicly. No private-treaty sales will be accepted.

To nominate ewes or market lambs complete the form at: www.southdownsheep.org/juniors/futurity/

GRAND CHAMPION RAM

SENIOR CHAMPION RAM

RES. SR CHAMPION RAM

RES. GRAND CHAMPION RAM

Ryker Beckmier

Drew George

Hudson Fleener

Breanna, Carson & Cole Knittel

Junior Champion (Bred & Owned) 1st January Ram Lamb (Bred & Owned)

Reserve Junior Champion (Bred & Owned) 1st February Ram Lamb

1st Early Senior Ram Lamb (Bred & Owned)

GRAND CHAMPION EWE

JR CHAMPION EWE

RES. JR CHAMPION EWE

RES. GRAND CHAMPION EWE

Drew George

Ashlyn Maddox

Ryker Beckmier

Breanna, Carson & Cole Knittel

Senior Champion Ewe (Bred & Owned) 1st Class 1 Yearling Ewe

1st Class 1 March Ewe Lamb (Bred & Owned)

1st Class 3 January Ewe Lamb (Bred & Owned)

Res. Senior Champion Ewe 1st Class 3 Yearling Ewe

BRED & OWNED RESERVE SENIOR CHAMPION EWE:

Peyton Howe (2nd Class 1 Yearling Ewe)

NAILE JUNIOR SHOW MARKET LAMBS

Champion Southdown Wether: Landrey Krieger; Reserve Champion Southdown Wether: Shaylee Maddox; Third Overall: Sophie Tressler; Fourth Overall: Nora Jackson; Fifth Overall: Levi Argabright

NAILE SHOWMANSHIP

The highest placing Southdown exhibitor in each class of showmanship at NAILE were recognized with a banner sponsored by the ASBA. Congratulations!

Olivia Scuderi, MD (20 & Older, 1st Overall)

Holly Howard, IN (15, 1st Overall)

Jordyn Leininger, IN (18, 1st Overall)

Caleb Formo, WI (12, 1st Overall)

Davie Sheller, IN (9)

Ryker Beckmier, IL (14, Intermediate Reserve Div. Winner)

Hope Barker, IN (17)

Anna Grace Groth, KY (11, 1st Overall)

Emily Wildes, CT (8)

Emmylou Rinehart, IN (7 & Younger)

Shaylee Maddox, OK (19, Sr Div. Winner)

Ephraim Fowler, OH (13, Intermediate Div. Winner)

Drew George, MI (16)

Landrey Krieger, IN (10, Jr Div. Winner)

2023 NATIONAL SOUTHDOWN SHOW

GRAND CHAMPION RAM

RES. SR CHAMPION RAM

RES. JR CHAMPION RAM

RES. GRAND CHAMPION RAM

Drew George

Caleb Formo

Breanna, Carson & Cole Knittel

ALEX WOLF, OH

Ryker Beckmier

Senior Champion - 1st Late Senior Ram Lamb

1st Early Senior Ram Lamb

Junior Champion - 1st January Ram Lamb

1st February Ram Lamb

BEST HEADED RAM: Peyton Howe

1ST PAIR OF RAM LAMBS: Drew George

GRAND CHAMPION EWE

JR CHAMPION EWE

RES. JR CHAMPION EWE

RES. GRAND CHAMPION EWE

Drew George

Carson Knittel

Lincoln Oldenburg

Holly Howard

Sr Champion Ewe - 1st Early Yearling Ewe

1st Early January Ewe Lamb

1st Late March Ewe Lamb

Res. Sr Champion Ewe - 1st Class 3 Yearling Ewe

BEST HEADED EWE: Scramlin Southdowns

1ST PAIR OF YEARLING EWES: Kailen Smerchek

1ST PAIR OF EWE LAMBS: Brian Forsee

2023 NATIONAL SOUTHDOWN SHOW

1ST FLOCK

PREMIER EXHIBITOR

Drew George

Brian Forsee

SO FAR IN 2024

WE’VE SOLD 64 SHEEP INTO 18 STATES NEARLY ALL FUTURITY NOMINATED! OUR GOAL IS TO OFFER AN EQUAL NUMBER OF FEB/MARCH EWES AND WETHERS TO YOUTH FOR SHOW!

WE ARE PROUD TO MATCH THE ASBA EARNINGS OF ANY FUTURITY SHEEP PLACING IN THE TOP 10 2023 FUTURITY RESULTS: WE PAID OUT $4,613.79 IN MATCHING FUTURITY FUNDS IN 2023.

IN 2023, WE HAD 20 FUTURITY NOMINATED SHEEP FROM 8 STATES PLACED IN THE TOP 20. 17 OF THESE WERE IN THE TOP 10 AND RECEIVED MATCHING FUNDS!

Forsee R22-158

Beckmier

Mrozinski S2222 “Bad

eddie” “mass appeal”

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21 Gillmore Southdowns

4 KAK Images

20 Maddox Livestock

20 Miniter Southdowns

15 Parker Farms

34 R&D Acres

2 Select Livestock Services

4 Sink Southdowns & Horned Dorsets/MKP Southdowns/KP Livestock

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American Southdown Breeders’ Association

Ann Fry, Executive Secretary

P.O. Box 556 ,Otterbein, IN 47970