Buckle & Banner - Fall 2021

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BUCKLE & BANNER | FALL 2021

Congratulations to the BRAGG FAMILY

Congratulations to the FARMER FAMILY

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Congratulations to the VOWELL FAMILY

Congratulations to the VOWELL FAMILY

BUCKLE & BANNER | FALL 2021

Congratulations to the VOWELL FAMILY

Congratulations to the MURRAY FAMILY

Congratulations to the LEHMAN FAMILY

Congratulations to the LEON FAMILY

Congratulations to the FARMER FAMILY

Congratulations to the BRAGG FAMILY

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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FIELD DAY FUNDAMENTALS

19

JRA ROUND-UP ROAD TO THE WINNER’S CIRCLE

31

SHOW DAY RECIPE

16 SOCIAL MEDIA MAGNIFIED

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE ...

SHOW NEWS

ASSOCIATION UPDATES

JUNIOR REPORTS

Advertising Index....................................................28

2021-2022 Show Info.................................................6 Road to the Winner’s Circle: Documenting DNA..............................................12 Show Day Recipe......................................................24

JRA Sponsors..............................................................8 JRA Contact Information.......................................18 2021-2022 JRA Board of Directors........................22 2

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Letter from the Editor...............................................3 Red Angus Staff Contact Information.....................3 Board of Directors.....................................................4 2020-2021 Association Highlights...........................4

ON THE COVER: Morgan Jackson, Kaufman, Texas, and Neal Thompson share a special moment after Morgan’s heifer won the grand champion percentage heifer at NAJRAE.

18335 E. 103rd Ave., Ste. 202 Commerce City, CO 80022 940-387-3502 | FAX 888-829-6069 info@redangus.org | RedAngus.org Chief Executive Officer Tom Brink, Ext. 4, tombrink@redangus.org Director of Breed Improvement Ryan Boldt, Ext. 12, ryan@redangus.org Director of Office Operations Halla Pfeiff, Ext. 10, halla@redangus.org REDSPro & Registry Specialist Billie Boyd, Ext. 6, billie@redangus.org REDSPro & Registry Specialist Nicole Rebitski, Ext. 5, nicole@redangus.org Database and Registration Consultant Kenda Ponder, Ext. 15, kenda@redangus.org Tags and Show Program Specialist Jeananne Drouhard, Ext. 18, jeananne@redangus.org DNA Data Programs Coordinator Alana Skelton, Ext. 14, alana@redangus.org DNA Customer Service Specialist Kai Miranda, Ext. 24, kai@redangus.org Director of Commercial Marketing Harold Bertz , 816-661-2289, harold@redangus.org Commercial Marketing Coordinator Katie Martin , Ext. 16, katieochsner@redangus.org Commercial Marketing Specialist Nolan Woodruff, Ext. 9, nolan@redangus.org Commercial Marketing Specialist Barrett Simon, 316-452-1792, barrettsimon@redangus.org Commercial Marketing Specialist Rachael Oliver, 406-480-1569, rachael@redangus.org

LETTER from the editor I remember the exhilaration when my kindergarten class went to the county fair. When my classmates loaded back on the bus, I stayed behind because I was showing my first heifer that day. That blue ribbon (I was the only one in the class) was the start of a trek of personal growth, new skills and an ignited passion for the beef industry.

At most shows, I stood pretty close to the bottom of the class, but that perspective might have taught more life lessons. Today, I’ve got a good grasp on the fact that life’s not fair, how to handle disappointment and how to be a good loser. On the flip side, I developed a resiliency and toughness to prevail in hard times and an appreciation for later times when I stood toward the top of the class. Despite the fact that I might have walked out of the ring toward the last, I learned that judges still notice your hard work and determination. One of those judges ended up being my cow-calf professor in college and tracked me down in the hallway to get me to apply for what turned out to be my first job.

No matter where you place in the ring, the pathway is the lesson.

If you are a youth member, I want to stress how much getting involved in the junior program will mean to you down the road.

It’s where I learned to develop communication skills and leadership tips that I’m passing on later in this issue. Serving on my state and national board of directors provided me opportunities to travel the country, tour top cattle ranches and to develop lifelong friendships and cherished memories. Being on a national junior board has been one of my best life experiences, and I highly encourage any junior to strive for that. The connections you make along the way will serve you the rest of your life.

I’m excited to bring the Buckle & Banner to you. Join me on this journey as we discuss the youth program, showing cattle, the Red Angus breed and the best industry in the world!

Live your best life,

Tag and Show Programs Coordinator Chessie Mitchell, Ext. 20, chessie@redangus.org Director of Education & Junior Programs Dr. Kim Heller, 515-851-2019, juniors@redangus.org RAM Publisher & Advertising Director Tracey Koester, 701-391-5440, tracey@redangus.org RAM Editor & Director of Communications Brandi Buzzard Frobose, 785-448-0239, brandi@redangus.org B&B Publisher & Communications Specialist Lisa Bryant, 405-766-8942, lisa@redangus.org Accounting Director Janet Russell, Ext. 11, janet@redangus.org Receptionist Margaux Midas, Ext. 3, receptionist@redangus.org 3

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“Sometimes it’s the journey that teaches you a lot about your destination.” — Drake 3

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Roxboro, North Carolina

Bend, Oregon

Manhattan, Montana

Strong City, Kansas

2020-2021 ASSOCIATION HIGHLIGHTS Sebree, Kentucky

Manhattan, Montana

Karval, Colorado

Morgan Mill, Texas

Steele, North Dakota

Canton, Oklahoma

Hershey, Pennsylvania

Columbia, Alabama

Stockport, Iowa

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• Eclipsed 19 million records in IGS Genetic Evaluation.

• Launched the Red Cow Rally, female genotyping research program with Neogen. Genotyped more than 4,500 additional females.

• Added 2,000 heifer exposure records to the Heifer Pregnancy Evaluation.

• DNA submissions are up by 10.87% year to date.

• Processed more than 5,000 DNA samples this year.

• Two episodes on American Rancher reached nearly 800,000 viewers.

• Red Angus Magazine saw a 4% increase in revenue.

• The new Cattlemen’s Congress in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, hosted the largest national show and largest regional junior show in Red Angus history. With breeder input, the board of directors moved the 2022 national show to Oklahoma City.

• The Feeder Calf Certification Program recorded a record high of 214,200 enrollments in fiscal year 2019-2020.

• The marketing team completed 34 commercial ranch visits in the fall of 2020 and 77 visits in the spring of 2021.

• More than $8,000 was raised for Junior Red Angus programs. A total of $6,000 was awarded in college and educational scholarships.

• JRA experienced a new record with 1,100 memberships.

• Year-to-date RAAA membership grew by 6.4%.

• Top Dollar Angus maintained a growth rate of more than 50%. B&B

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2021-2022 SHOW INFO

AMERICAN ROYAL Kansas City, Missouri

CATTLEMEN’S CONGRESS Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Entry and ownership deadline has passed.

Earliest move-in........................................................ Oct. 13 Check-in.................................................................... Oct. 14 Regional junior show............................................... Oct. 16 Open show................................................................. Oct. 16 Junior judge...................................................... Jared Boyert Open judge................................................... Tim Fitzgerald

Entry deadline...........................................................Nov. 19 Junior show ownership deadline..............................Dec. 1 Late entry deadline...................................................Dec. 10 Earliest move-in........................................................Dec. 30 Check-in....................................................................Dec. 31 Regional junior show........................................Jan. 2, 2022 Open bull show..................................................Jan. 2, 2022 National heifer and bull pen show..................Jan. 3, 2022 Open female show.............................................Jan. 4, 2022 Junior judge ....................................................Blake Nelson Open judge................................................. Randy Mullinix Pen judge.......................................................... Terri Barber Hotel room block Hyatt Place OKC Airport. Use code: G-REDA

For more information, visit americanroyal.com

NORTHERN INTERNATIONAL LIVESTOCK EXPOSITION Billings, Montana Entry deadline has passed.

Move-in begins......................................................... Oct. 20 Cattle in place by...................................................... Oct. 21 Processing ................................................................. Oct. 21 Sale.............................................................................. Oct. 22 Regional junior show............................................... Oct. 23 Open show................................................................. Oct. 23 Junior judge.................................................... Chan Phillips Open judge........................................................ Dan Harker Hotel room block Hampton Inn Southgate. Ask for MTRAA block.

For more information, visit thenile.org

WESTERN STATES RED ANGUS ASSOCIATION Reno, Nevada Entry and junior ownership deadline.................... Oct. 22 Tentative show dates.............................................. Nov. 4-5 For more information, visit westernstatesredangus.com

NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL LIVESTOCK EXPOSITION Louisville, Kentucky Entry and junior ownership deadline...................... Oct. 1 Begin receiving cattle...............................................Nov. 11 Regional junior show...............................................Nov. 14 Open show.................................................................Nov. 15 For more information, visit livestockexpo.org

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For more information, visit cattlemenscongress.com

NATIONAL WESTERN STOCK SHOW Denver, Colorado Entry deadline...........................................................Nov. 20 Junior ownership deadline........................................Dec. 1 Junior heifer show.............................................Jan. 8, 2022 Pen show.............................................................Jan. 9, 2022 Open show........................................................Jan. 10, 2022 For more information, visit nationalwestern.com

FORT WORTH STOCK SHOW AND RODEO Fort Worth, Texas Entry deadline...........................................................Nov. 15 Regional open show........................................Jan. 30, 2022 Open judge....................................................... Doug Satree For more information, visit fwssr.com

NORTH AMERICAN JUNIOR RED ANGUS EVENT Chickasha, Oklahoma June 20-25, 2022

For more information, visit najrae.com B&B

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As we kick off the new year of activities for the Junior Red Angus Association, we reflect on the past year and once again say thank you to our 2020-2021 sponsors. Their support made possible the virtual Young Stockman’s Program, the National Junior Show at the North American Junior Red Angus Event, national contests and JRA Round-Up throughout the Mid-South in Tennessee and Kentucky. Thank you for your support and investment in our youth.

DIAMOND SPONSORS

PLATINUM

GOLD

SILVER

BRONZE

Hueftle Cattle Co.

Bieber Red Angus

Circle 5 Cow School

Estrotect

Milk Creek Reds

RA Brown Ranch

Devin & Katie Martin

Green Mountain Red Angus

Rogers Cattle Co. LLC

Nolan & Kelly Woodruff

Heart River Ranch JYJ Red Angus Lost Creek Red Angus

We also extend our thanks to the Red Angus Foundation Inc. for your continued support of junior programs!

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Field Day fundamentals

by Lisa Bryant

The 2022 field day season may seem worlds away, but planning for a successful event for next summer starts now with reflection, goal setting and developing a strategic plan.

If your state hosted a field day this year, now is the time to evaluate what worked and what could be improved. It’s a good practice to write notes immediately as you plan for next year.

After determining what could be improved upon, take time to decide what you want your next field day to accomplish.

“You need to decide what the purpose is,” said Annette Steffan, one of three junior advisers in North Dakota. “For example, should the field day be geared more toward the kids that show, or should you make it so all kids can come.

“We decided to organize our field day as an experience for kids that come from a registered or commercial background,” Steffan said. “Instead of focusing on the show end, we built on herd management, education and beef advocacy.”

Steffan and her fellow advisers aim to offer a well-rounded program with their field day. “We strive to develop kids who will stay in the breed and go on to serve on the board.” When planning their activities, she said it’s good to ask what activities are the kids involved in and if you can build on what they’re doing in 4-H, FFA, school or other activities. “I am hoping that we can take what they learn in school and take it to another level,” she continued.

In the past, North Dakota has hosted a two-day field day that included a show and a day of learning, but in 2021, the only option was a one-day educational event. The advisers decided to highlight a cook-off as the main attraction, but Steffan said the junior members really enjoyed an udder scoring demonstration and a cattle drive.

Leading up to the field day, four Zoom sessions covered Red Angus history, the life cycle of a beef animal, Beef Quality Assurance and beef nutrition as it relates to human diets. On the day of the field day, the cattle drive focused on what the youth had learned from the Zoom sessions.

As you develop your field day schedule, be sure to plan extra time throughout the day to catch up. Events always take longer

A cookoff was the main attraction to attract juniors to the 2021 North Dakota Field Day. (Photos by Shaye Koester.)

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than you think, plus speakers can talk longer than expected and it takes time if you have to move people throughout events.

Build Your Team Planning a field day is a big responsibility for one person, so Steffan said it’s important to have help. In North Dakota, Steffan serves as the main adviser, but Shaye Koester handles educational components and Sara Lee coordinates shows.

“We work really well together and are able to pick up the pieces to make things work,” she said.

Beyond advisers, it’s a good idea to establish committees with clear responsibilities. Be sure to establish a chair person to keep the ball rolling on planning throughout the year. And, you may want to have a committee signup sheet at the registration table to find volunteers for the next year.

Find a Host Once you have your goals in mind, an early project should be finding a suitable host. Steffan added that hosting a field day is an extra burden on the host family, so it’s important to have a clear understanding of what will be required, as well as how the other families can pitch in to help. You’ll also want to ensure the host can provide adequate meeting space, tents, show facilities, judging contest cattle or other activities.

“The host is critical,” Steffan said. “There’s a lot to facility preparation. You need to have a place where people can gather.

If you have a show, you need an area to have the show or you’ll need to set up panels for a ring and show out of the trailer.”

Steffan stressed the importance of having adequate water for a show. She said the host needs to be prepared with items such as garbage cans, water, tables and bathroom facilities. In North Dakota, they also try to find a camping area nearby for added convenience for the families attending.

Brand Your Event Once you do all this work, sing from the rooftops to make sure you have a crowd. Promote your event through means such as your website, social media and mailing or email lists. Be sure to include the adult association in your communications.

If you’ll be attending shows or other ag events, hang flyers to get the word out. If any of your activities, such as judging contests and educational programs, are open to youth outside the breed, be sure to include 4-H and FFA leaders. (This can be a powerful opportunity to recruit new people to the breed.) If your location is near another state, invite junior members from that state too.

Use your ag network to help promote the field day as well.

If other farm organizations have a calendar, social media or newsletter, ask if they would be willing to list your information.

Notify Extension offices. If your state has an ag radio network, they might air an interview before the field day or even attend the event. Ask newspapers if they would send a photographer.

Consider a “save the date” announcement as soon as you know the initial details, then follow up with more information periodically as you get closer to deadlines and the event.

Steffan also recommends calling parents beforehand. “You have to call the parents to get the kids there.”

Confirm Everything Before the Big Day One month before the field day, plan a call with committee members to ensure tasks are being executed. Also, confirm that everything from the judges to the meal to the port-a-potties are still on track.

Develop a supply box ahead of time as well. Be sure to include items such as pens, paper, poster board, markers, scissors, tape, first-aid supplies, trash bags and name tags. If you have a judging contest, be sure to have plenty of pencils.

Finally, BreathE! It Will Be OK. Things are going to go wrong, so you have to be as prepared as possible to react when it does. Don’t forget the field day is supposed to be fun and educational for the kids. Make sure it is for you, as the organizer, as well. As the day unfolds, keep reminding yourself that the end goal is building our youth for the future. As long as you stay true to your mission, your field day will be a great experience!

Be sure to include hands-on activities for your field day. North Dakota youth built their perfect udder during an udder scoring demonstration.

Field Day checklist

One year to six months before field day 1. Evaluate past field day • What worked?

• What didn’t work?

2. Goals • What do you hope to accomplish?

• How will you achieve those goals?

• What new ideas do you want to implement?

3. Obtain a host • Location • Time of year • Will facilities accommodate people/show?

4. Meet with host • Decide event date (Double check for possible conflicts with 4-H, FFA or related activities.)

• Decide what the host will provide ­(meals, cattle for the judging contest, etc.)

• When will the host need extra help?

5. Let technology assist you. Whether it’s a notepad app on your phone, an Excel spreadsheet or a yellow pad, find one system to record thoughts as you go and refer back to throughout the planning process.

Six to three months 1. Organize committees. Designate a chair person to be responsible for planning and execution.

• Opening ceremonies • Program • Fundraising/sponsorship • Judging contest (choose judges with the host) • Awards, host and sponsor gifts • Registration (name tags, judging contest, etc.)

• Meals, concessions, etc.

• Decorations • Publicity • Contests • Special activities 11

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2. Designate emcee 3. Finalize details for program and arrange printing.

Two months 1. Promotion • Radio, TV, local media and newspapers, livestock publications — arrange interviews beforehand. Some stations have free spots, but you have to ask first.

• Mail/email program approximately four weeks before the first deadline stated in the program.

• Contact 4-H and FFA groups • Finalize event judges • Lineup judging contest cards and official scorers • Order awards One month 1. Assist host family (painting, repairs, cleanup, etc.)

2. Remind judges and other guests of date and responsibilities 3. Check the status of all committees 4. Locate a good, reliable P.A. system Week before — arrive at field day location 1. Wash cattle 2. Set up corrals, bleachers and registration tables 3. Ensure bathrooms are available and clean 4. Signs 5. Backdrop for pictures 6. Have an officer/host meeting After field day 1. Assist host with clean-up 2. Write thank you notes 3. Evaluate and make a summary of the event B&B

For an editable field day sample program, visit https://bit.ly/3iuNzfc 11

ROAD TO THE WINNER’S CIRCLE: DOCUMENTING DNA

By Alana Skelton, RAAA DNA programs coordinator

T

hank you for joining us for the DNA segment of this series. We all know DNA can be challenging, especially when you are on a tight timeline, so we hope this article offers clarity and guidance.

To start, I want to cover some major misconceptions we run into with some good, old-fashioned true or false. Who doesn’t love tests, right? (Insert eye rolls here.)

All sires and donors must have a DNA sample on file to register progeny and for progeny to not go on hold as Z status.

True. Since the 2017 calf crop, all sires are required to have a DNA sample on file.

You bought a bull so it must have DNA on file?

False. Just because you bought a bull or it’s been transferred to you does not mean it already has DNA on file. Keep reading to find out if your animal has DNA on file.

Other people have registered progeny from this dam or sire, so DNA must be “good to go.”

False. We monitor defects solely on the mating of the animal so while that sire might be compliant for a natural calf, they may not be compliant for AI calves. Another issue is the other member may be registering calves, but they are all going on Z status due to DNA noncompliance.

Always, always, always double check!

Hopefully, you aced that test! If not, please reach out to our DNA team to ask questions and get more information so you can become the DNA whiz of your operation.

To find out if there is DNA on an animal you own, start by pulling up their pedigree in REDSPro through the “Animal Search” tab. Look in the middle of the page for “Genetic Detail Status, Parentage Test.” If you see “Not on File”, then the animal DOES NOT have DNA on file with

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us. If you see other verbiage such as: “Sire Qualified, Dam not on file”, then the animal DOES have DNA on file. You can also tell if the animal has a genomic test on file by moving your eyes to the right of the parentage results to “Genomic Data.” If “GGP” is listed, then the animal has been tested on a genomic panel.

Now, let’s move on to some other important areas: registering an animal and warnings. We have three DNA holds: Z, U and B, and each has its own impact on progeny or the individual animal. Z is a status where a required parent doesn’t have DNA on file, such as a donor dam or sire. If you get a Z status warning, you’ll need to submit a DNA sample on the required parent of the animal. U status means there is a defect issue in the pedigree and typically either the calf or a parent needs testing. I always recommend double checking the mating of that animal to make sure it is correct. After that, we can establish why and what defect your animal is on hold for. To explain this a little more, here are the shortened differences for natural, AI and ET calves. In natural calves, we will look for a defect carrier on both sides of the pedigree only going back two generations. For AI calves, we will look all the way back on the sire’s side and two generations on the dam. Last but not least, on ET calves we look all the way back on both sides. Next is B status, which means there is a discrepancy in the pedigree, and we need to resolve it quickly. The most common “B” cases are when an animal excludes (does not match) to either the sire and/or the dam. To resolve this exclusion, you will need to email the DNA department with alternative sire and/or dam options for your animal. Now, this is an excellent time to take some notes. If the animal you are trying to register a calf from is currently on Z, B or U, the system will not let you register anything to the animal until the hold status is resolved.

Now that we have a solid base to work on, let’s move on to your timeline for DNA. This will be brief so if you have specific questions, please don’t hesitate to call or email us for more details.

It’s important to note components of the timeline can be sped up and others cannot.

For example, you can speed up the time it takes your package to get to RAAA by using expedited shipping. On the other hand, you cannot speed up the chemical process at the lab. If you are a math whiz, you can see this timeline can take up to two months from requesting kits to all of the enhanced EPDs in the system. So plan ahead!

Let’s talk a little bit about results before you go. When you receive your results, please review them and read through your results key. Major things to look out for include exclusions in your animal’s pedigree. If you test a sire/dam and it comes back as a carrier (noted as C, example OSC,) you will need to test all resulting progeny until you have a free animal. If you need a certificate printed, please contact the Registration Department to get that issued to you once DNA loads and your animal(s) comes off hold.

Whew, that was a lot of information!

We hope this clears things up for you and helps your next show season take you to the Grand Drive! B&B

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DNA TIMELINE

This is an optimal timeline, but processing may vary due to season. It never hurts to add extra time for processing.

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by Lisa Bryant When the first recognizable social media platform, Six Degrees, was developed in 1997, it probably didn’t cross the mind of many cattle producers to use it as a tool to sell cattle. Now 24 years later, you’re likely getting left in the dust if you’re not promoting cattle online. Let’s inspect the elements of a successful ranch campaign.

“Today, 72% of the U.S. population is on some form of social media and uses it daily,” said Brandi Buzzard Frobose, Red Angus Association of America director of communications, in a July RAAA social media webinar entitled, “My Bull Sale is Over — What Now?” (If you missed it, you can access the webinar taught by Frobose and Red Angus Magazine Publisher Tracey Koester by logging into your REDSPro account.)

Social media should be a key component of any ranch’s marketing strategy. It’s important in building brand awareness, boosting leads and sales and building trust in your program.

“Research shows that you need to be seen seven times online to leave a lasting impression,” Koester said. “And, that’s just to get them to recognize your brand. That doesn’t mean they know and trust your program yet.”

Settrini Ranch’s Celeste Settrini said, “Social media is such a great tool to add some extra pop to your online ranch presence. Settrini manages the Salida, California, ranch’s presence with daily ranching life, recipes, cowgirl fashion and “A 16

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Cowgirl’s Guide to Eats and Sleeps,” which highlights reviews of hotels and restaurants. She also manages “The Bull Sale Bulletin,” where she showcases seedstock breeders and their sales.

“Many ranchers, especially purebred breeders, already have a website. Social channels complement that by driving guests to your website,” she said. “By having a social presence, ranchers can better tell the story.”

If you don’t know much about social media, Settrini’s advice is to “jump in, splash around, figure it out and make it your own.” The selftaught social media guru learned by watching other prominent ranchers online and asking tons of questions.

And then, she did her own thing.

“Don’t worry about what everyone else is doing. I am a work in progress and am constantly updating,

changing and keeping it fresh.”

She’s tried to step up her game by attending workshops, online classes and tutorials, plus she consults with college-age friends who keep her in the loop.

If a rancher has limited time, Settrini recommends focusing on one or two platforms. “In the beginning, I spread myself so thin trying to post to everything. I ended up really not enjoying Twitter, and after awhile, wondered why I was even doing it. If it gets to be a chore, then it’s not for you.” She focuses her attention on Facebook and Instagram, and takes advantage of being able to post to both platforms at the same time. She’s also experimenting with Snapchat.

CONSISTENCY IS KEY Frobose urges ranchers to be consistent. “Don’t post only the

KNOW THE DEMOGRAPHICS When selecting a platform, consider which platforms your buyers are using. SOURCE: Forbes.com Social media users

Facebook

Instagram

Men

61%

36%

Women

77%

44%

Ages 18 to 29

70%

71%

Ages 30 to 49

77%

48%

Ages 50 to 64

73%

29%

65+

50%

13%

KNOW THE NUMBERS Each platform has its pros and cons, but Facebook still dominates the field. SOURCE: Buffer.com Platform

Monthly Active Users

Facebook

2.23 billion

YouTube

1.9 billion

Instagram

1 billion

TikTok

500 million

Twitter

335 million

LinkedIn

294 million

Snapchat

255 million

Pinterest

250 million

month before your sale and then be silent for 11 months. Facebook and Instagram are not going to reward your efforts just for the 30 days before your sale.

“It also tells Facebook that you are active and they will start to show your information to more people. It will help boost the algorithm if you are active,” she added.

Settrini has developed a formula for posting that she calls, “Empower, Engage, Excite and Educate.” To follow her “E4” formula, she will post photos of what she is doing daily on the ranch. On Thursdays, she shares historical ranch photos from when her dad worked the ranch. She sprinkles in current agricultural information that she believes will benefit other producers.

“I share lots of photos of Oliver, my ranch pup,” she said. “People love dog pictures.

Frobose added that people react well to calves, kids, snow and people. She said people will slow the scroll to see if they recognize anyone in the photo.

Frobose tries to share a post from a trusted ag source at least once a week. “It helps your algorithm and it builds a bridge for other people sharing your share.

She said you want to “give, give, give and then sell.

Every post should not say ‘Look at this bull.’ or “Buy this bull.” To be effective, followers need to find value in your posts. She added that what may seem like everyday life to you will interest others. “People want to know and learn from what other people are doing on their farm. Snap a photo and share daily life.”

Frobose advised to pay attention to what makes you stop your scroll when you are viewing social media. If it interests you, it would interest others, so that’s a good example of something to emulate in your posts.

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Canva is an online graphic design platform that allows you to create attractive social media layouts and videos using templates. There’s a free version, or a Pro version ($12.99/month) that allows you to resize graphics, select from an extensive stock photo, video, audio and graphic library and schedule your posts.

Facebook Business Suite a­ llows scheduling for both Facebook and Instagram, viewing of page insights and ad creation.

Bitly creates shortened website links. You can use a free version, or a paid version that allows you to customize your links. NOTE: Watch for characters that look similar, such as an 0/O or i/l. If your link contains such a character, click again to create a new short link.

Plug in a keyword, and best-hashtags.com will generate related hashtags.

One of the mainstays in social media scheduling, Hootsuite allows you to see multiple networks at the same time, schedule posts and view analytics. The free plan is limited to two social accounts and five scheduled messages. Paid plans start at $49/month.

Later.com l­ ets you plan, analyze and schedule posts for Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter. Later has a free plan that allows for one social set and 30 posts per social profile. Paid plans start at $15/month.

Buffer is a scheduling tool with a free plan, or a plan that is $5/month per social channel.

Postfity.com is another scheduling app, but the most useful feature is the ability to schedule a Facebook cover photo change.

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Celeste Settrini’s Go-To Tips for Social Media Success:

1

Post regularly. There’s nothing worse than an outdated page.

2

Be real. Be yourself!

3 Koester said it’s important to respond if someone comments on your post. If someone said hello to you on the phone, you would answer. Social media should be no different.

Don’t just post to sell.

It turns people off. Your content should offer value to someone else. ­— Tracey Koester THINK TWICE BEFORE POSTING When you post, you’ll want to keep in mind that people outside of agriculture will see your post.

Settrini says the biggest mistake she sees is a graphic post that is not explained well. “I think it’s important for us to be transparent and share our story, but many times I see a photo on Instagram

Don’t be boring.

or Facebook that can be taken in different ways and can shed a poor light on what we do.

“It may be nothing at all, but by not fully explaining, people can let their minds wander and come to a negative conclusion when maybe it was nothing negative at all. Be aware before posting if you think something might be questionable.”

She said if you can’t provide clear, understandable explanation, it might not be the best story to post.

She takes advantage of non-ag friends seeing her posts, and uses that to educate that community.

Her recipes and reviews pull in this audience. “Once they follow along, they will eventually learn something about ag,” she added.

Ranchers also need to understand that animal rights groups often dictate social media policy. In 2019, the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals organization bought enough shares in Facebook to get

a seat at the board table. (Keep in mind that Facebook also owns Instagram.) Shortly before that move, Facebook banned the sell of livestock between private parties.

To avoid Facebook jail, it’s good practice to avoid listing any prices and any words similar to “for sale.”

Settrini advises to be extra cautious with your wording. She recommends using social media as a promotional tool to drive guests from Facebook to your website.

“The website will be the spot where you have all the details and sale information.”

GET SOCIAL! Social media magnifies your toolbox for selling show cattle. Study how ranches you admire handle their content and jump in the game!

With some creative content, photos that attract attention and a plan, you could be well on your way to finding your next buyers online! B&B

The Junior Red Angus Association of America, the junior affiliate of the RAAA, strives to equip and prepare all members to be leaders, innovators, stewards and advocates for the Red Angus breed, the beef industry and agriculture. The JRA membership actively participates in industry events, conferences and workshops designed to develop members’ critical thinking, leadership and production skill sets. Additionally, the JRA strives to nurture enthusiasm for the beef industry and agriculture, while promoting networking and education.

For more information on the Junior Red Angus Association of America, visit RedAngus.org or call Kim Heller, junior programs coordinator, at 515-851-2019.

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The five days in Kentucky and Tennessee were packed with both education and fun! Site visits highlighted the key commodities of the region’s agriculture as well as industry partners that assist in advancing agriculture.

Team challenges and individual contests showcased participants’ knowledge of cattle production and evaluation. The JRA annual meeting provided an opportunity to guide continuous improvement for the organization, and members elected the 2021-2022 board of directors. The entire experience provided 60 participants from 14 different states with a chance to create friendships and lifetime memories.

UT Middle Tennessee AgResearch & Education Center | Murdock & Sons Farms | River Bend Farm | Murray State University 19

BUCKLE & BANNER | FALL 2021

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Servant’s Heart Farms | UK Grain & Forage Center of Excellence | Diamond P Cattle Co. & Noash Construction | Owensboro Riverport Authority

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TOP HAND AWARD

YOUNG GUN AWARD

Morgan Marlett, Laurens, South Carolina, claimed the JRA Round-Up Top Hand Award. JRA Director Andrea Rutledge, left, Big Sandy, Montana, presented the award to Morgan.

Tessa McGibbon, Green Valley, Arizona, was awarded the JRA Round-Up Young Gun Award. At right, Rutledge presented Tessa with her award.

COMMERCIAL CATTLEMAN SCHOLARSHIP

HEATHER PRESSER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Jacynta Bomgardner, Loma, Montana, was named the winner of the JRA Round-Up Commercial Cattleman Scholarship. JRA Directors Rutledge, left, and Mia Gibson, right, Elgin, Iowa, presented the award.

Taryn Cox, Walla Walla, Washington, won the Heather Presser Memorial Scholarship at this year’s JRA Round-Up. Rutledge, left, and Gibson, right, presented Taryn with her award.

BUCKLE & BANNER | FALL 2021

Hayden Farms | Chaney’s Dairy | Red Hill Farms | Grand Ole Opry & Rymen Auditorium

STOCKMAN’S KNOWLEDGE CONTEST

CHAMPION TEAM

JRA Directors Izzy McGibbon, left, Green Valley, Arizona; and Tiffany Watkins, right, Dade City, Florida, presented awards to Whitley Frost, Esbon, Kansas, junior reserve champion; Wes Meyer, Anamosa, Iowa, junior champion; Bailey Smith, Shiner, Texas, intermediate reserve champion; Natalie Evan, Jacksonville, Illinois, intermediate champion; Mitchell VanderWal, Brentford, South Dakota, senior reserve champion; and Ethan Dickerson, Paradise, Kansas, senior champion.

From left are Paige Fitzgerald, Bloomington, Illinois; Dalia Weber, Rock City, Illinois; Greysen VanWye, Lancaster, Missouri; Jacynta Bomgardner; Randi Anderson, Clarion, Iowa; Jenna Cox, Walla Walla, Washington; Morgan Marlett; and Kenneth Fruszie, Chinook, Montana. Gibson, right, presented the award.

MEAT ANIMAL EVALUATION CONTEST THANKS TO THE 2020-2021 JRA DIRECTORS! We extend a special thanks to the 2020-2021 JRA board of directors! From left are Peyton Nagel, Alhambra, Illinois; Andrea Rutledge; Izzy McGibbon; Tiffany Watkins; Mia Gibson; and Isaac Berg.

From left, McGibbon presented awards to Bruce Calteaux, Winona, Minnesota, junior reserve champion; Wes Meyer, junior champion; Natalie Evan, intermediate reserve champion; Bailey Smith, intermediate champion; Kenzie Mork, Sanders, Montana; senior reserve champion; and Ethan Dickerson, senior champion. JRA Director Isaac Berg, Pipestone, Minnesota, also helped with the presentation.

ROUND-UP MEMBER SCHOLARSHIPS From left, Rutledge presented JRA Round-Up Member Scholarships to Whitley Frost and Morgan Marlett.

Gibson, right, helped to present the awards.

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Congratulations to these 2021-2022 Junior Red Angus Board of Directors who were elected at this year’s JRA Round-Up held July 13 to 18 in Kentucky and Tennessee.

These juniors will dedicate the next year to equipping and preparing all JRA stakeholders to be leaders, innovators, stewards and advocates for the Red Angus breed, the beef industry and agriculture.

EMMA AHRENDSEN — SIOUX RAPIDS, IOWA Emma Ahrendsen is the daughter of Brian and Karla Ahrendsen.

She resides in Sioux Rapids, Iowa, where she graduated from Sioux Central High School this past spring. During high school, she was involved in football and basketball cheer, individual and large group speech, student government, NHS, FFA, 4-H, track and field, band, choir and the Iowa Junior Red Angus Association. As a board member, Emma hopes to encourage members to get more involved. She is very excited to serve on the board and cannot wait to see what the future holds.

PERI ANDRAS — MANCHESTER, ILLINOIS Peri Andras is the 17-year-old daughter of Will and Kim Andras of Manchester, Illinois. She will be starting her senior year of high school this fall. Peri is active in FFA and 4-H, where she serves as president and vice president, respectively. She also is a member of the National Honor Society and Morgan-Scott CEO program. Peri looks forward to serving the Red Angus breed and encouraging others to pursue leadership roles.

ISAAC BERG — PIPESTONE, MINNESOTA Isaac Berg is son of Philip and Laurel Berg and was born and raised in Pipestone, Minnesota. Isaac grew up with pigs, cattle and sheep. Isaac has been involved in 4-H and FFA all throughout high school and has been involved in livestock, meats and poultry judging. Isaac was a team captain for his cross country and track teams. Isaac has really enjoyed his time at Red Angus events like Round-Up, and has learned a lot while having a lot of fun. He wants to give back and help others have the same amazing experiences that he had.

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NATALIE EVANS — JACKSONVILLE, ILLINOIS Natalie Evans is the 17-year old daughter of Sean and Amy Evans. She and her family run a commercial and registered Red Angus herd near Jacksonville, Illinois. A junior at Routt Catholic High School, she has been on the High Honor Roll for five semesters, competes in varsity track and is a cheer squad member. She has participated in the East Side Juniors 4-H Club for eight years, where she has served as president, vice president and secretary. She’s also a member of the Morgan/Scott County 4-H Federation.

Natalie is passionate about Red Angus and wants to learn more about the breed while developing strong relationships with other breeders.

SHANNON JENKINS — LEBANON, MISSOURI Shannon Jenkins, daughter of Jeff and Liz Jenkins, is a junior education major at the University of Central Missouri. Raised on a cow-calf operation in Lebanon, Missouri, her family focuses on functionality and appeal. During high school, she was an active board member in the 4-H and FFA chapters, and she remains involved with the Missouri Junior Red Angus Association. Shannon believes the future of our industry lies with our youth, which is why education and advocating are vital to her. She encourages all members to get involved with the Red Angus Association.

MITCHELL VANDERWAL — BRENTFORD, SOUTH DAKOTA Mitchell VanderWal is the son of Jeff and Beth VanderWal of Brentford, South Dakota. In May, Mitchell graduated from Northwestern High School where he was involved in FFA, FBLA, FCA, track, football, band, chorus, drama, robotics and student council. He has shown cattle, sheep and pigs through 4-H and numerous breed associations since a young age. As a board member, he hopes to be an influential leader in the breed and agriculture. He believes his extensive experience and passion for leadership, cattle and agriculture will provide a foundation for his board service.

TIFFANY WATKINS — DADE CITY, FLORIDA Tiffany Watkins is the 19-year-old daughter of Andy and Sandy Watkins, and is from Dade City, Florida. She is studying livestock production at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College where she is involved in the Sigma Alpha Sorority and the ABAC Cattlemen’s Association. She has also been involved in FFA, 4-H and the Junior Florida Cattlemen’s Association where she has held many leadership positions. Tiffany has been raising Red Angus for four years and is passionate about the breed. She looks forward to promoting Red Angus all around the country, especially in the Southeast. B&B 23

BUCKLE & BANNER | FALL 2021

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HYDRATE YOUR CREW

from thebakermama.com

ICE CHEST TEA

Ice C h es t Tea is th e pe rfe ct drink to se rve to a crowd.

I t’s ref res hing and eve ryone love s it!

ingredients : • 3 large bags crushed ice •

cup instant unsweetened tea mix (such as Lipton) 3/4

• 1 gallon (16 cups) water to dilute tea • 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar • 1 gallon (16 cups) water to dilute sugar •

bottle (7.5 ounce) frozen premium lemon juice, thawed 1/2

• 4 large oranges, cut in thick slices • 4 large lemons, cut in thick slices

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DIRECTIONS: Add the 3 bags of crushed ice to a clean ice chest that holds at least 25 quarts.

Dilute the instant tea in 1 gallon of water. Dilute the sugar in 1 gallon of water.

Let the tea and sugar dilute while you slice the oranges and lemons.

Add the diluted tea, diluted sugar, thawed lemon juice, sliced oranges and sliced lemons to the ice chest with the ice. Stir to combine. Let set or serve immediately. B&B

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Identification Matters

Allflex Digital ID has you covered with visual tags, electronic tags and tissue sampling genomic identification.

These tools increase the ease and accuracy of data collection and streamline decision making on your ranch.

At Allflex® we help you bring it all together.

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BUCKLE & BANNER | FALL 2021

800.989.8247 | www.allflexusa.com

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PUBLICATION OF THE

RED ANGUS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA GENERAL INFORMATION

Published four times annually by the Red Angus Association of America at the national headquarters (18335 E 103rd Avenue, Suite 202, Commerce City, CO 80022). A non-political magazine dedicated to the promotion and improvement of breeding, showing, feeding and marketing Red Angus cattle.

ADVERTISING INFORMATION

Visit redangus.org/buckle-banner for advertising rates and media kit. To place advertising in upcoming issues, contact Lisa Bryant at lisa@redangus.org.

January 2022 issue ad space reservation deadline ­— Nov. 15 January 2022 issue camera ready art due — Nov. 30 EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING POLICY

Advertising and editorial content are not limited to any particular class of product or subject matter. However, we reserve the right to refuse publication of any material not within the bounds of high agricultural ethics. While we devote the utmost care to the preparation of each advertisement, we cannot be held responsible for ads received after the ad deadline. Furthermore, the accuracy and content of copy received over the telephone is entirely the responsibility of the advertiser. No adjustment for incorrect ad copy will be considered for ads that are received after the ad deadline or that are placed over the telephone.

All unused reserved advertising space that is not canceled by the advertising deadline will be fully billed to the advertiser.

B&B

ADVERTISING INDEX Dec. 3-5 University of Missouri at Columbia Register by Nov. 1 $100 Registration Scholarships Available Join us to build your production knowledge and skills while networking with industry professionals and other JRA members.

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Allflex........................................................................27 Bradley Cattle.............................................................7 Conley Cattle.......................................................... BC Hankins Farms...........................................................7 Harmony Hill.............................................................1 JCL Red Angus................................................... 5, BC JK Angus...................................................................13 Legacy Livestock Imaging.......................................26 Majestic Meadows.................................................. BC NAJRAE ............................................................. 14-15 Pleasant Hill Cattle Co..............................................9 Red Diamond Land & Cattle...............................IBC TC Reds.................................................................. IFC

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Red Angus Association of America 18335 E. 103rd ave., suite 202 commerce city, co 80022