The Mini Hereford Journal Winter 2025

WINTER 2025

THE MINI HEREFORD

JOURNAL WORLD CLASS CAT TLE | WORLDWIDE NEWS

AHA# 44417380

AHA# 44390259

KLD Kit 480B x JKO Lego Embryos available in Summer of 2025 by TB12, Perfect Timing, Summer Time Mick and Dam Nash

EXIT 198 x KLD Herta 028H (Tyrion) Semen is AVAILABLE in FALL 2024

JKO Lego 407 x KAP Cady Sampson Embryos available in Summer of 2025 by Gus, Curve Ball, Summer Time Mick and Candy Cane

RHH Close x DHF May Flower Semen is $50.00 no certificate

RHH Bingo x Miss JB 161 Semen is $80.00 no certificate.

For more information...

All Semen Stored at Hoffman AI Breeders

www.Hoffmanaibreeders.com

DIAMOND H FARMS Amalga, UT

Rulon Carlisle 435.512.4275 Herf.4373@gmail.com DNT’S Stitch 9C x KAP Hope Inez Semen is $60.00 no certificate

Make plans to attend the Eastern Idaho State Fair and Utah State Fair each September.

GENETICS

sire: Cooper Nash

sire: Dam Nash

dam: DKMC 266 Ice (Phoebe)

dam: JWS Ices Lyric

sire: Cooper Nash

sire: Cooper Nash

sire: Dam Nash

dam: KCDA 6

dam: DKMC 266 Ice (Phoebe)

dam: JWS Ices Lyric

Semen Conventional & Sexed available on Cooper Nash, Nash Pretty Boy, DAM Nash.

Semen can be purchased through Smejkal Show Cattle.

Midway Leasing Albuquerque, NM 505.328.9558, D. McCall

Smejkal Show Cattle Caldwell, Texas 405.664.8456, Ryan Smejkal 817.694.8533, Tori Smejkal smejkalshowcattle@gmail.com

01

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Celebrating milestones and minis in 2025!

D

PUBLISHED BY Mini Hereford Media, LLC

ear Readers, As 2024 draws to a close, it’s amazing to reflect on how quickly the year has flown by here at The Journal.

We’re excited to bring you our third edition, which is made possible by the trust and support of breeders who have partnered with us to showcase their operations. Seeing our magazine make waves around the globe has been incredibly rewarding, and we hope it’s helped foster new friendships and facilitated fruitful business connections within the mini Hereford community.

This summer marked a milestone with the launch of the Certified Mini Hereford Beef (CMHB) program—a much-needed initiative for our industry. We’re grateful to everyone who has joined us on this journey so far. The CMHB program aims to promote the sale of mini Hereford beef, and we’re thrilled to be building this vital aspect of the mini Hereford world together.

In this edition, we’re also excited to share the State of the Mini Hereford survey results we introduced earlier this summer. We believe the insights gathered will be invaluable for breeders, enthusiasts, and anyone invested in the future of Mini Herefords.

Additionally, this issue brings you a range of stories showcasing our community’s passion and dedication, including Block-R Barnyard’s famous Skittles. Don’t miss the inspiring story of White Buffalo Ranch, a dedicated mini Hereford breeder in the scenic hills of Tennessee, and a profile on some of New Jersey’s finest beef producers.

You’ll also meet Blake Buck, the 2024 NWSS Showmanship Winner from Wisconsin, whose journey with mini Herefords is nothing short of impressive.

Continuing the origin story of mini Herefords, we journeyed to Sequim, Washington, where we met Betty Johnson from Straitside Ranch, home to the first polled mini Hereford cattle. Her story is the perfect example of resiliency and an inspiration to women of all ages raising mini Herefords.

Warm regards,

Kyle Shipley

Editor-In-Chief The Mini Hereford Journal

02

FIELD STAFF Dane Bergin 940-631-9214 Kyle Shipley 903-879-4703 EXECUTIVE DESIGNERS Alex McIntosh Connie Barbour CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Amanda Morgan Diane Vogel Tresa Ryan Shane Bedwell The Mini Hereford Journal is the home for all Mini Hereford enthusiasts, highlighting news, trends, education, and livestock shows around the globe.

Learn more at tmhjournal.com.

The publisher reserves the right to decline any advertising for any reason at any time without liability, even though previously acknowledged or accepted.

Cover Photo:

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to connecting, celebrating achievements, and sharing the vibrant world of mini Herefords.

MANAGING EDITORS Kyle Shipley Arianne Shipley

“Fenceline Hangs with Hank the Tank” Taken by Alex McIntosh at McIntosh Minis in Ellensburg, WA.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

THE MINI HEREFORD

JOURNAL WORLD CLASS CAT T LE | WORLDWIDE NEWS

BATTLE FOR BANNERS

LEARN

Letter from the Editor

02

AHA Hot Topic

06

Minis Down Under

14

Barnyard Tales

16

Certified Mini Hereford Beef

18

Grassroots Gourmet

20

Exhibitor Spotlight

24

Breeders Spotlight

38

Show Highlights

44

Upcoming Shows

47

History of the Mini Hereford: Straitside Ranch 30

Denver bound?

Meet us at the Mile High Mini Social.

See inside Back Cover for details!

02

SEEK & FIND

State of the Mini Hereford Report

10

How’s It Hanging?

22

Online Sales Report

42

Mini Marketing Blast

42

Breeders Directory

48

Advertising Index

57

03

HCC Jake The Jailbird ET KLD 50K 883F ET x RHH Shotgun Betty

HCC Uncle Sam ET BR Tyrion 7245 x RHH Shotgun Betty

HCC Tax Exempt ET BR Tyrion 7245 x RHH Shotgun Betty

Gavin & Stephanie Stevens HCC Uncle Sam ET & HCC Tax Exempt ET 2024 NWSS Mini Hereford Champion Pair of Bulls

605.770.4406 05

AHA Hot Topics

An article from the American Hereford Association November 2024 Hereford World Magazine.

Shane Bedwell is the chief

Performance Matters

operating officer and director of breed improvement of

Accuracy is Everything

the American Hereford Association. He can be reached at sbedwell@hereford.org.

New DNA-based initiatives position Hereford for ongoing success.

By Shane Bedwell

I

t’s s simply amazing how far technology has come

force met several times over the summer to discuss

upon the announcement of a genetic abnormality

and what we can measure and track in terms of the

current DNA policies and develop recommendations

release. Strengthening the AHA genomic reference

potential genetic merit of Hereford cattle. From

for the AHA Board. You can see the changes adopted

library will also improve the genetic evaluation.

weighing cattle to ultrasound and DNA, we have the

by the Board and approved for the AHA herd book in

Finally, if an AHA member wants to whole-genome

opportunity to gain a tremendous amount of accuracy

the “Board Highlights” published in the October 2024

sequence any animal they own, whether it’s a donor

on young, non-parent animals.

issue of Baldy Advantage (Page 78). All of the updates

cow or a young bull, please contact me. This technology

are important, but I want to highlight a couple of them

has become fairly affordable compared to what it

here.

used to be, especially considering the information it

Although often taken for granted, building genetic prediction accuracy starts with ensuring the pedigree

provides today and the powerful resource it provides

is accurate. DNA enables genomic-enhanced expected progeny differences (GE-EPDs), but it also offers the

STAYING AHEAD OF THE CURVE

for the future.

significant advantage of verifying parentage. Correct

Building upon current permit rules, walking sires

I thank the task force and AHA Board for these

parentage is the basis for any accurate EPD calculation.

and donor dams, born on or after Jan. 1, 2026, will be

progressive initiatives, which continue to propel the

It might surprise you to know that 8-10% of the animals

required to not only have a genomic profile but also

breed forward. As always, keep them sound.

submitted for registration to the American Hereford

must be parent verified and tested for all known genetic

Association (AHA) each week do not qualify to one or

abnormalities. Essentially AI sires, walking sires and

Current NRSP Sires

both of their parents. These are unintentional mistakes,

donor dams will have the same requirement going

The American Hereford Association’s National Reference

and many do come from multi-sire pastures, but it

forward. Given the impact that each has on a herd, this

Sire Program (NRSP) is designed to identify and validate the

underscores the ongoing need to collect DNA.

makes logical sense and will strengthen the registry

The AHA implemented the AI sire rule many years

and genetic evaluation for years to come.

genetic merit of young sires that offer seedstock producers and commercial users opportunities to improve their herds for specific traits and a combination of traits. It also provides

ago, which requires a genomic profile and parent

The task force and AHA Board also spent considerable

ongoing confirmation of the profitability associated with Here-

verification for a bull to be AI-permitted. Since

time reviewing policy regarding the release of genetic

ford genetics. These are the NRSP sires (and their registration

September 2020, these sires must also be tested for all

abnormality information. The bottom-line sentiment

numbers) currently used at Olsen Ranches, Harrisburg, Neb.

known genetic abnormalities.

was that more information is better.

KCF BENNETT MONUMENT J338 (44320126)

Moreover, the AHA implemented the walking sire

Upon the release of a new genetic abnormality,

and donor dam permit rules in 2011, which require a

the AHA will publish the affected animals and their

R IDENTITY 6112 (44360793)

genomic profile and parentage verification checked

parent(s), if available. Additionally, the AHA will publish

STELLPFLUG GUNSMOKE 222 ET (44400396)

where available. These all have been important breed

the genetic abnormality results of all animals involved

WHITEHAWK 490H VOLTAGE 242K (44430488)

improvement initiatives that have strengthened the

in research and discovery of a new genetic condition.

genetic evaluation.

Along with this, a new rule was added: once a sire

L III EFBEEF TALL GRASS 2017 (44355900)

SHF LEGION H315 L060 (44442417) SHF LOCKE 569G L340 ET (44443184) JC L1 STAR DOMINO M8086 206K (44447490)

This last spring, AHA president, Wyatt Agar, was

achieves 0.80 weaning weight accuracy, the AHA will

SCHU-LAR EFBEEF COMMAND ET (44447592)

charged by the AHA Board of Directors to assemble a

whole-genome sequence (when DNA is available)

GG MCF VERIFIED MERIT 323L (44450972)

task force to review all aspects of the organization’s use

these sires. This genomic reference library will be

WALKER FULL CIRCLE 3511ET (44454927)

of DNA, from current rules to the genetic abnormality

used for research and breed improvement objectives.

policy and the future of sample storage. Task force

If available, the results of these sires will be published

members included Mark Cooper, Mark Squires,

when a new genetic abnormality is released. Again, this

ASM 405B RED MAN 325L ET (44491851)

Dave Bielema, Charlie Boyd and Sam Shaw. The task

will allow for more data and information to be released

CMF 1720 GOLD RUSH 569G ET (Reference) (44108010)

06

CHURCHILL SMOKEY 3128L ET (44462190) NJW 79Z 029H VISTA 147L ET (44486345) H RICHMOND ET (44491260)

the

pLACE FOR

Miniature Herefords in the Northeast!

Shanna Pickwick & Ed Benziger Stuyvesant, New York 518.929.4346 shannapickwick@gmail.com

HIGH QUALITY & DOCILE Registered Herefords.

www.bwminiherefords.com 07

KLD CURVEBALL 970J ET

AHA#44350066

SIRE HORSESHOE B MR

DAM KLD KIT 480B

11B1F

100/straw

$

THROW CURVEBALL AT YOUR HERD TO HIT A HOMERUN!

• 2024 NATIONAL WESTERN GRAND CHAMPION

CONTACT OWNERS FOR SEMEN.

• 2024 CATTLEMAN’S CONGRESS GRAND CHAMPION • 2023 CATTLEMAN’S CONGRESS GRAND CHAMPION • 2023 SAN ANTONIO GRAND CHAMPION • 2023 OUTLAW’S & LEGENDS GRAND CHAMPION • 2023 IOWA STATE FAIR GRAND CHAMPION • 2023 TULSA STATE FAIR GRAND CHAMPION • 2023 AMERICAN ROYAL GRAND CHAMPION

VINITA, OK PAUL MENDELL 918.694.2880 BAYLEE METCALF 918.244.5451 FOLLOW US ON 08

ONE EYED AHA# P44194298 Sire Sir Gene (Mean Gene) Dam SS Miss Vanessa Arizona National Livestock Show 2022 Resere Grand Champion Bull A Mean Gene son that is genetically a JACK of all trades!

Semen $30/straw ($50 cert.) contact www.Hoffmanaibreeders.com OR owner.

Mark & Shirlene Burt 602.885.5517 Waddell, Arizona M.burt23@gmail.com Dam SS Miss Vanessa

HL Bad Habit

I

CH High Roller 756ET x KLD Bad Bunny 879 F

West Texas State Fair Grand Champion Bull

HL Bad Bee ET

I

BGB Ben Dover x KLD Bad Bunny 879 F

Winner of numerous Grand titles in Texas, Oklahoma,

Tulsa State Fair Reserve Grand Champion Overall Bull

Louisiana and Mississippi

American Royal Class Winner

Embryos FOR SALE by Bad Bee x EXIT 198

American Royal Grand Champion Division Bull Louisiana State Fair Junior Show Overall Grand Champion Bull Louisiana State Fair Open Show Reserve Grand Champion

Cows, Cow/calf Pairs, Bulls, Heifers and Semen FOR SALE at all times.

Tim & Shelly McDermott Mart, TX 254.733.6300

09

Executive Summary: State of the Mini Hereford Report This State of the Mini Hereford Executive Summary provides highlights from 119 breeders worldwide, covering profiles, herd size, production, market trends, and community feedback.

BREEDER PROFILE

• 77% of breeders raise only registered mini Herefords.

• 71% of breeders manage polled and horned genetics, with only 19% focusing solely on polled cattle.

• Breeders (from the survey) span 29 U.S. states and four countries (New Zealand, Australia, Belgium, and the United States), with Texas (26%) leading, followed by Missouri, Iowa, Wisconsin, Arkansas, Ohio, and Oklahoma.

• More than 65% of respondents have herds of 20 head or fewer, reflecting the breed’s popularity with small-acreage and hobby farms.

• 8% of respondents reported having 50+ head

SHOW COMMUNITY & BREED INTEGRITY

• Exhibitor Participation: • 56% of breeders exhibit mini Herefords at livestock shows, with the majority attending 1-5 shows annually.

• Concerns About Breed Integrity: • 29% of breeders are concerned about height standards, particularly with Herefords being shown as mini Herefords.

• Breeders also want to see better enforcement of show rules and more certified/experienced judges who understand mini Hereford cattle.

• Many breeders called for unifying the two Junior National shows to create a more consistent competition structure for youth exhibitors.

PRODUCTION & HERD MANAGEMENT

• Stocking rates vary depending​​ on pasture quality, climate, and grazing strategy—37% use one cow per acre, and 17% use two cows per acre.

• Higher-Density Stocking: 9% have three cows per 1 acre, reflecting higher forage productivity or rotational grazing.

• Lower-Density Stocking: Breeders in arid regions or on native pastures reported lower rates, such as one cow per 2 acres (12%) or one cow per 3 acres (7%).

• 52% of breeders sell mini Hereford beef, showing a growing interest in direct-to-consumer beef production. Most beef breeders process only 1-5 steers annually, pointing to the breed’s role in small-scale beef production.

• Common health issues include: *(Note: breeders gave multiple responses, so each was counted separately) • Pink eye (59%) • Lice (37%) • Calving complications (16%) • Respiratory issues (16%) • Hoof rot (11%) • Cancer eye (8%)

SALES, MARKETING, AND PRICING

• Due to an error on the survey form, only 72 (60.5%) of 119 respondents could be calculated for the question regarding the average sale price for mini Herefords. However, 49% of the 72 respondents reported selling most mini Herefords for $1501-$2500.

• Steers typically sell for less than $1500, indicating a primary use for beef production.

• Premium animals, like show-quality heifers and donor cows, command higher prices, selling for $3501-$5000+.

• Heifers range from below $1000 up to $5000+.

HEIGHT PREFERENCES

• Female Height: • 80% of breeders prefer mini Hereford females in the 41-45 inch range.

• 46% of breeders prefer a height of 41-43 inches.

• 34% of breeders prefer a height of 44-45 inches.

• Only 17% of breeders prefer females in the 35-40 inch range, and just 3% prefer cows taller than 45 inches.

• Bull Height: • 69% of breeders prefer mini Hereford bulls in the 44-48 inch range.

• 37% of breeders prefer a height of 44-45 inches.

• 32% of breeders prefer a height of 46-48 inches.

• Only 10% of breeders prefer bulls in the 35-40 inch range, and just 5% prefer bulls taller than 48 inches.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Registered mini Herefords: 69% prioritize registered cattle, reflecting breeder focus on breeding stock, show cattle, and the hobby farm market.

2. Beef production growth: 52% of breeders sell mini Hereford beef, typically processing 1-5 steers yearly, signaling increased direct-to-consumer beef production.

3. Rising sales prices: Most mini Herefords sell for $1501-$2500, with premium animals like show-quality heifers and donor cows often exceeding $3500.

Steers sell for under $1500.

4. Show participation: 52% of breeders exhibit mini Herefords at 1-5 shows per year. Calls for unification of Junior Nationals and certified judges are growing.

5. Breed integrity: Breeders seek stronger enforcement of height standards and consistent show rules.

• Most bull sales occur in the $1001-$2500 range.

• Cows dominate the $2001-$5000+ range, suggesting that experienced cows (possibly pregnant or donor cows) command higher prices.

• Breeders target multiple markets: *(Note: Since breeders could choose multiple categories, the percentages add up to more than 100%.)

• 71% market to hobby farmers and breeding market • 66% market to show cattle market • 34% market to pet buyers • 45% market to beef buyers • 8% keep them all • Livestock shows (55%) and word of mouth (42%) are key discovery methods, followed by internet searches (34%) and social media (32%).

10

Thank you to everyone who participated in the survey. A full report will be available online, offering insights for breeders, industry leaders, and The Mini Hereford Journal about the breed’s status and growth opportunities.

$75 per Straw Conventional Semen SIRE

KLD on the Rocks

AHA Reg# 44350609 | 46” hip height at 2 years

DAM

6E STLZ Ladi Jasmine

Owner TR2K Mini Herefords

Breeder Jace Cunningham

Exceptional set of calves due this fall with TR2K Mini Herefords in Huntington, Indiana. Semen straws conveniently located in Texas and Indiana.

TR2K Mini Herefords

Cunningham Show Cattle

Brian Spice 260.355.0249

Drue and Melissa 254.913.0612

HUNTINGTON ,INDIANA

HOLLAND, TEXAS

MCINTOSH ELLENSBURG, WA

CAM RUSTY

Cattle & Semen Available CHARLIE MCINTOSH 509.859.6712 mcintoshminis.com /mcintosh.minis

12

MINIS

CAM HANK THE TANK

13

Minis Down Under Bridging Continents with Mini Herefords: An Aussie-American Exchange Tresa Ryan, Lazy 2 R Mini Herefords, Contributing Writer

S

outhern Missouri is a cattle country. And in a state with a reputation for producing more beef cows than any other state in America (except Texas), there is no shortage of high-quality mini Herefords. Even in small towns like Birch Tree, Missouri, with

a population of less than 600, you can find them at Lazy 2 R Mini Herefords, owned by Hal and Tresa Ryan.

Recently, the Ryan family had a unique opportunity—they welcomed visitors from across the globe—Australian mini Hereford breeders Mel and Scott Huxtable of VonGlen Ag. While visiting the United States to see family, they also took the opportunity to explore American mini Herefords. The Huxtables spent a rainy afternoon with the Ryans, exchanging insights, evaluating cattle, and forming

Top: Hal & Tresa Ryan, Owners of Lazy 2

connections across continents.

R Mini Herefords.

Back in Australia, Mel and Scott have raised classic Herefords for seven years on their farm, VonGlen Ag, which also includes sheep and an agricultural business that provides custom farming, fertilizer, and fencing services. When comparing mini Herefords in Australia to those in the United States, Mel explained, “We breed our cattle a little bigger as a whole.” In Australia, the maximum height for males and females to qualify as mini or classic Herefords is 120 cm (just under 48 inches).

However, at Lazy 2 R, the target size is slightly smaller, with females ranging from 42–45 inches and bulls from 43–46 inches. Mel also noted that Australian mini Herefords must be fourth-generation miniatures to be officially recognized by their association.

Like the Ryans, Mel and Scott are committed to producing structurally sound, productive cattle that thrive in diverse environments. Mel has marketed her calves as ideal for small-acreage farms or even as family-friendly pets. Alongside other Australian breeders, she’s educating farmers on the benefits of using mini Hereford bulls as maiden sires (first-time sires) to improve calving ease without sacrificing calf quality.

Interestingly, the Huxtables’ region in Australia shares similarities with southern Missouri regarding vegetation and forage availability, though the seasons are opposite.

Scott explained that they supplement their cattle with hay for about five months of the year, comparable to the winter feeding period in southern Missouri.

As the rainy afternoon wore on, the Huxtables and Ryans discussed their countries’ many similarities and differences in agricultural practices. The visit ended with an exchange of ideas and a shared enthusiasm for the future of mini Hereford cattle on both sides of the globe. More than just fellow breeders, the Ryans, and Huxtables parted as friends, united by their passion for mini Herefords and their commitment to advancing the breed—wherever in the world they call home.

14

Left: Scott & Mell Huxtable, Owners of VonGlen Ag. Below: Calves at the Lazy 2 R.

#1 International Mini Hereford Sire.

Is AL L O ve r The Wor ld ! y DAM: DF Twilight Fantas s Maveric de as sc Ca DF E: SIR AHA#43708249 and the USA. LDR Over The Top pines, New Zealand ilip Ph e th a, bi m lo , Co Countries – Australia OTT has calves in 5

Domestic & Foreign Semen $100/unit Streetman, TX Kyle Shipley 903.879.4703

Australian Semen $140 aud/unit Hinterland Mini Herefords Queensland, Australia

Tom Gray 0432510341

15

Barnyard Tales: Teaching the Next Generation Amanda Morgan, Block-R Farms, Contributing Writer

O

n a small farm in southern Arkansas, a cow named Skittles is preparing for a big day. Soon, she’ll head downtown to El Dorado, Arkansas, and meet a crowd of eager kids. Alongside her barnyard friends, Skittles will spend the day giving young (and young-at-heart) visitors a

hands-on farm life experience. Despite the peeling paint and dents, her trusty blue trailer is ready to haul her into town. As Skittles steps off the trailer, she’s greeted by a chorus of excited voices calling her name: “SKITTLES!” Block-R Barnyard started in 2021 with the birth of Skittles, who quickly became the heart of this unique traveling petting zoo. Trained to work with children with special needs, Skittles quickly won over the community, bringing smiles to every event she attended. Of course, no petting zoo is complete without a few friends—soon, Pickles the miniature horse, Annie Ann and Polka the goats, Rocky the sheep, and many others joined the crew. But even with her barnyard friends by her side, Skittles remains the star of the show.

Skittles’ journey as a special needs-trained companion began with one family: the Carters.

Their daughter, Sawyer, has Angelman’s Syndrome, a genetic condition that affects her mental development, mobility, and more. From the first meeting at the 2021 county fair, Sawyer and Skittles shared an instant bond. Although Sawyer is non-verbal, her joyful sounds and excited movements showed Skittles that communication comes in many forms. Over time, Skittles learned to respond calmly to Sawyer’s unique ways of showing affection, adapting to her movements. For Skittles, every visit with Sawyer is a lesson in patience, love, and understanding.

Through countless visits and training sessions, Skittles grew to trust her growing family and adapt to different needs. Skittles is a regular in the town Christmas parade (with her fourth appearance coming up this December) and has traveled with the Block-R Barnyard crew to schools, fairs, and festivals across the region. When kids see the old blue trailer pulling in, they know the fun is about Above: Skittles In A Bikini (Photo By: Mainstreet El Dorado)

to begin. Despite being the community’s beloved icon, no matter where they go, if Sawyer is there,

Below: Miss Saywer and Skittles enjoying the day.

time stops for Skittles—their bond is as strong as ever, and Sawyer proudly declares Skittles as “her cow.”

Today, Block-R Barnyard is fully booked for the fall and is already scheduling events into the new year. Skittles will continue her mission of spreading joy and teaching the next generation about life on the farm, one event at a time.

To keep up with Skittles and her barnyard crew’s adventures, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/blockrbarnyard.

Left: Moo, Annie Ann, Rocky and Pickles.

Right: Pickles.

16

BKH Flicka’s Cassidy ET AHA# 44302478

GBB Ben Dover x KLD Flicka 812F ET 2023 NWSS Junior National Champion

SEAL SS Axel ET AHA# 44401003 SS Sire Gene x IVY Ms Spooky 2023 MHBA Res. Jr. National Champion Pros. Steer

Sheryl Erickson & Allen Luce 37756 132 St I Aberdeen SD 57401 nd

605.380.8291 I sjerickson@nvc.net

HTT Harper’s Tito 1220 AHA# P44225757

SSR Sterling x 22 Flashs Sweet Sangria 2022 MHBA Junior National Champion Bull

SEAL DH John Henry ET AHA# P44377810

JWS DOC Holiday x KLD WWF Eve 706E ET 2023 MHBA Junior National Champion Bull

SEAL PP Packin Sam AHA# 44410319

THF Packing Pete 928 x Silly Sammys Silly Millie 2023 MHBA Jr. National Champion Prospect Steer

17

Certified Beef Program A Growing Legacy: Certified Mini Hereford Beef Gains Momentum

I

n the summer edition, we were excited to introduce

EXPANDING OUR PRESENCE

you to Certified Mini Hereford Beef (CMHB)—an

A vital component of the CMHB initiative is

innovative program poised to elevate the mini

developing a dedicated CMHB website. This online

Hereford beef industry to new heights. For breeders,

platform will serve as a central hub for resources,

this initiative offers tremendous potential to enhance

updates, and tools, further expanding the reach and

marketing efforts, boost consumer recognition, and

visibility of mini Hereford beef. We aim to connect

create a unified identity for our exceptional beef.

breeders and consumers in meaningful ways that drive

As mini Hereford breeders, we stand to benefit

demand for this unique beef offering.

immensely from this program. CMHB isn’t just about branding; it’s about building community and ensuring

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

the success of everyone involved. We thank the

Now is the time to get involved! If you’re a mini

pioneering breeders who have stepped up to champion

Hereford breeder looking to amplify your marketing

this cause, contributing their time, resources, and

and help shape the future of our industry, we invite

expertise to promote mini Hereford beef.

you to join us. Contact us at theminiherefordjournal@ gmail.com.

Photo courtesy of Glory Farms, Streetman, Texas.

LEADING THE WAY: FOUNDING FARMS The following eight farms have been instrumental in establishing CMHB’s foundation. They will continue working together to provide updated, user-friendly, relatable, and informative marketing materials that will empower you to showcase your beef to consumers: BenzWick Acres - Stuyvesant, New York Black Canyon Mini Herefords - Olathe, Colorado Creek and Stone Cattle - Sicily Island, Louisiana Diamond H Cattle - Amalga, Utah Glory Farms - Streetman, Texas

After researching other cattle breeds, we developed a list of essential requirements commonly found in their branded beef programs that will help promote consistently high-quality Certified Mini Hereford Beef (CMHB).

Basic Requirements 1. The animals are purebred or at least one-half mini Hereford.

2. All cattle have been raised and handled humanely and in accordance with Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) or similar guidelines.

3. Before processing, no added hormones, steroids, or antibiotics have been applied/fed to the animals.

4. Health records, including vaccinations and all other treatments, will be kept on all animals marketed as CMHB. 5. The minimum carcass weight of all processed animals is 350 pounds.

6. Carcasses will be aged a minimum of 7 days.

Lazy 2 R Mini Herefords - Birch Tree, Missouri Rolling G Minis - Tennessee Colony, Texas RWV Land and Livestock - Jackson, New Jersey

Did You Know?

In 2024, we sent a survey for the State of the Mini Hereford Report with a few questions about beef production. Here are a few key insights from the 119 respondents.

Beef is a Growing Market:

52%

of breeders sell mini Hereford beef, highlighting a growing trend toward direct-to-consumer beef sales, with breeders leveraging mini Herefords as a viable option for families seeking smaller carcasses, direct sales, or whole-beef options.

Number of Mini Hereford Steers Processed Annually: (the data below is based on the 52% of breeders who produce mini Hereford beef)

85% 18

of breeders process 1-5 steers per year, likely filling personal freezers or selling small amounts of direct-to-consumer beef.

10%

of breeders process 6-10 steers per year, representing a more formalized approach to beef production.

5%

of breeders process more than 10 steers per year, indicating that large-scale beef production is rare in the mini Hereford community.

AHA#43551343

GF Chief 11B1H

sire: Lego dam: 11B1 owned by: Hadley Geiger, TX

GF Mr 151

sire: Lego dam: 151 owned by: Addison Poe, TX

GF Ruby 300K ET

GF Oklahoma Smokeshow 400K ET sire: Lego dam: 10 owned with: Christenson Cattle Company, IA

GF Red Velvet 11H4

sire: Lego dam: 11D4 owned by: Riley Purvis, MS

GF Miss 6013H

KYLE SHIPLEY 903.879.4703

ROBERT SHIPLEY 903.879.4023

919 FM 27 West l Streetman, TX 75859

sire: Lego dam: 11B1 owned by: Livi Bearb, LA

sire: Lego dam: 6013 owned by: Red Barn Herefords, TX

Lego Genetics IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES...

GFHEREFORDS.COM

LEGO Genetics offered by Glory Farms & LEGO partners – Semen will not be offered.

19

Grassroots Gourmet: Bringing the Garden back to the Garden State Diane Vogel, RWV Land & Livestock, Contributing Writer

W

hen people think of New Jersey, the bustling Manhattan skyline and highways lined with puffing smokestacks on the New Jersey Turnpike often come to mind. But those images overlook the state’s quieter side—its

green fields, farms, and livestock. It’s not called the “Garden State” for nothing.

Jeff and Diane Vogel, owners of RWV Land and Livestock in Central New Jersey, are helping to reshape that image. As second-generation farmers, they could have continued raising full-sized Herefords like Jeff’s father, Roger. Instead, they chose a smaller path, opting for miniature Herefords. The breed’s gentle disposition, lower impact on pastureland, and the rising interest in sustainable, small-scale farming made it an easy choice.

After nearly fifteen years of raising their herd and selling shares to family and friends, the Vogels expanded their operation. They found a USDA-certified butcher to sell individual cuts of their beef, creating a farm-to-table experience for their

Jeff and Diane Vogel, Owners of RWV Land and Livestock & The Market at RWV

local community. This meant longer trips for processing, with the closest butcher over two hours away—but the Vogels knew it would be worth bringing their beef to

to arrange another butcher appointment. “We had no idea how crazy it would get,”

more people.

Jeff admits. “One customer bought every rib-eye steak we had. Now, I make sure

Earlier this year, the Market at RWV opened its doors, offering locally raised beef

to keep a few cuts for my own grill,” he laughs. For Jeff and Diane, it’s a welcome

straight from the farm. The response was overwhelming. Customers, young and old,

challenge, one that reflects a growing desire for sustainably sourced, locally raised

came for different reasons. Some wanted to support a local business, and others

meat.

were drawn to the idea of eating beef from animals raised with care—free from the crowded conditions common in industrial farming.

Demand skyrocketed. The Vogels had sold out within three weeks and scrambled

Lady Farmer’s After Chore Cocktail Recipe -Cranberry Juice -Splash of Sprite -Shot of Peach Schnapps -Shot of mango rum -As much vodka as you need!

The Market at RWV is located in Jackson, NJ—far, far away from the smokestacks.

Visit their farm or follow them on Facebook at The Market at RWV Land and Livestock.

This edition’s Grassroots Gourmet brings a fun twist from Diane Vogel of RWV Land and Livestock and The Market at RWV! Diane steps out of the kitchen and into the evening with a refreshing “after-chores” cocktail, perfect for winding down after a long day on the ranch. Her recipe blends cranberry juice, a splash of Sprite, a shot of peach schnapps, a shot of mango rum, and “as much vodka as you need.

Here’s to the hardworking women of mini Herefords! #ladyfarmerneedsacocktail Cheers!

The Market at RWV located at 351 Pfister Rd. Jackson, New Jersey

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21

How’s it Hanging: Beef Production Results Welcome to the TMHJ “How’s It Hanging” Beef Production Report, where we break down five farms’ mini Hereford beef production results and showcase their exceptional quality and efficiency.Whether you have a grain-fed or grass-fed operation, Mini Hereford breeders across the USA and beyond consistently deliver premium beef to consumers.

As breeders, we must raise awareness that these cattle produce some of the most tender and flavorful meat. Our aim with this report is to highlight the outstanding characteristics of mini Hereford cattle and the superior quality of their meat.

Mini Hereford Prime Rib on the grill. Photo courtesy of Hat City Cattle Company, Fedora, South Dakota.

Highlighting Beef Production Results We’ve compiled results from five farms, each showcasing the versatility and efficiency of mini Hereford cattle. These farms exemplify the adaptability of mini Herefords, whether grass-fed or grain-finished, showing that premium quality can be achieved through various management styles. Here’s how they performed: Farm/Ranch

CN STARS MINI HEREFORDS

ROLLING G MINIS

RWV LAND & LIVESTOCK

HAT CITY CATTLE

COTTLE FAMILY FARM

City, State

Enid, Oklahoma

Tennessee Colony, Texas

Jackson, New Jersey

Fedora, South Dakota

Everett, Pennsylvania

Process Date

8/23/2023

10/10/2023

10/17/2024

10/1/2024

4/11/2024

Age of Animal

26 Months

34 Months

24 Months

18 Months

21 months Mini Hereford

Breed

Mini Hereford

Mini Hereford

Mini Hereford

Mini Hereford

Live Weight

778 lbs

800 lbs

N/A

N/A

N/A

Hanging Weight

472 lbs

566 lbs

575 lbs

578 lbs

470 lbs

Total Usable Product

N/A

N/A

423 lbs

377 lbs

N/A

Dressing Percentage

N/A

N/A

73%

65%

N/A

Fed/Finished

Grass Fed/Grain Finished

Grass Fed/Grain Finished

Grass Fed/Grain Finished

Grain Fed/Finished

Grass Fed/Daily Scoop of Grain

Hanging Time

20 days

14 days

14 Days

10 Days

14 days

Price List Spotlight: Rolling G Hills Pricing: Whole, Half, or Individual Cuts

“Beef Built on Quality and Care”

“The beef was absolutely exceptional. We

In the quiet countryside of Tennessee

Rolling G Minis prefers to sell steers on the hoof,

have found that we prefer grass raised and

Colony, Texas, Rolling G Minis has mastered

offering them for $4 per pound live weight, which

finished on a small gass pasture with free

the art of raising premium mini Hereford

includes basic processing. For buyers seeking

choice grain for 75 days. The meat is much

beef. Known for their commitment to

individual cuts, their pricing is as follows:

more tender and has a better flavor and

natural, humane practices, Rolling G delivers exceptional flavor and tenderness that sets their beef apart from the competition.

Ribeye $14

fat content than finishing on grass alone.”

T-Bone $12

- Devin Grider, Rolling G Minis

Sirloin $9

Rolling G Minis demonstrates the

Roasts $7

The team at Rolling G swears by their

Ground $6

remarkable potential of mini Hereford beef,

grass-fed and grain-finished method, finding

Tenderized Round $7

blending natural farming practices with

it produces meat with exceptional tenderness,

Brisket $7

modern finishing techniques to create a

flavor, and a well-balanced fat content. “The beef was absolutely exceptional,” they shared.

Their approach skips hormones and typically avoids antibiotics thanks to the herd’s robust health, supported by annual 8-way vaccines and wormer.

Liver/organs $4

truly outstanding product. Whether you’re

Rendered Tallow $20/pint Specialty items, like organ meats and tallow, are available by custom order, and buyers can also request additional processing options such as patties

buying on the hoof or ordering individual cuts, their operation is proof that great beef starts with great care.

or tenderizing for an extra fee.

This winter’s beef production results reflect the growing success of mini Hereford breeders.

Each farm’s ability to adapt their operations while maintaining high-quality standards is a testament to the breed’s versatility.

Do you have beef production data to share? Email us at theminiherefordjournal@gmail.com to feature your results in the next issue.

Let’s continue celebrating the excellence of mini Hereford beef together.

22

23

EXHIBITOR SPOTLIGHT

BIG WINS IN THE MINI HEREFORD RING Meet Blake Buck, a young rancher who’s taking the mini Hereford world by storm, one show at a time.

Submitted by Kyle Shipley

B

it’s been “full speed ahead” ever since. Alongside

Shipley caught up with Blake to talk about his journey,

lake Buck has been passionate about mini

his beloved heifer, Cupcake, Blake has won banners,

his biggest wins, and his best advice for future mini

Herefords for four years, and he’s already making

buckles, and bragging rights. But beyond the awards,

Hereford show stars.

a name for himself on the show circuit. Inspired

it’s the friendships, the memories, and the thrill of

by a family trip to the World Beef Expo, Blake’s journey

competition that fuel his love for the breed. Editor Kyle

with mini Herefords started with a single cow—and

24

—Continue to read the rest of the interview on the next page.—

Kyle Shipley (KS): How long have you been showing mini Herefords?

Blake Buck (BB): I’ve been showing mini Herefords for four years now, and I love it more every year.

KS: What got you started with mini Herefords?

BB: I wanted to show cattle, so my parents took me to the World Beef Expo in Milwaukee two years in a row. We walked around, watched the show, and talked to different exhibitors to see which breed would be the best fit. When we met Kurt from Hoban Miniature Herefords, he told us how great the breed is, especially for younger kids. After that, we knew mini Herefords were perfect.

We got our first mini, and we’ve been all-in ever since!

KS: What’s your favorite thing about showing mini Herefords?

BB: They’re so easy to handle and fun to work with. Their size makes them less intimidating when you’re learning, so they’re a great breed for new show kids.

Plus, they really help you build your confidence and skills as a showman.

SS Miss Lizzo at 2021 Colorado State Fair.

Above: Blake showing CX3 Miss Chloe 148ET at the 2024 National Western Stock Show (NWSS).

Below: CX3 Miss Chloe 148ET, 2024 NWSS Division Champion,

KS: Do you have a favorite show?

BB: Definitely the National Western Stock Show in Denver. I did really well there, and the people and competition were amazing. Plus, the road trip was awesome! Traveling through different states and seeing all the scenery made it even more fun.

KS: Who’s your favorite cow in your herd?

BB: That’s easy—my favorite cow is CX3 Champs Cupcake 124. We got her from Christenson Cattle Company in 2021, and she’s been my best friend ever since.

She’s sweet and kind, and she never runs away when I come out to the pasture to hang out with her.

KS: What advice would you give to new show kids?

BB: Put in the time at home! Practice a lot and get to know your animal. When you’re in the show ring, just go out there and have fun. And then, when you get back home, keep working on the things you need to improve.

KS: What happens to your cattle after you’re done showing them?

BB: After we’re done showing our heifers, they join the cow group. I have a steer named Ace who was great in the ring—now he works as a heat detector!

We’ve also raised two steers for beef, and the meat has been amazing.

KS: Do you have a breeding process?

BB: We use artificial insemination because we don’t have a herd bull right now.

We try to match each cow with the right bull to improve our genetics. We’re also really focused on promoting the mini Hereford breed here in Wisconsin

Blake & CX3 Champs Cupcake 124

so that there’s a mini Hereford division at shows across the state. ...continued on page 26

25

Exhibitor Spotlight continued...

KS: Do you see yourself sticking with mini Herefords in the future?

BB: Absolutely! I love mini Herefords and plan to keep working with my parents to grow our herd and improve our genetics. I can’t imagine not having minis.

KS: Have you won any cool awards?

BB: Yes! I’ve been really lucky. I’ve won banners, money, and awesome prizes over the years. The Miniature Hereford Summer Showdown in Illinois has the best prizes—last year, our tack room was packed with cool stuff! I won a wooden pub table and other amazing things. I’m really grateful my parents support me and travel with me to shows.

KS: What’s been your biggest accomplishment so far?

BB: My biggest accomplishment was with CX3 Miss Chloe 148ET. At the National Western Stock Show, we won Reserve Champion Summer Intermediate Heifer in both the Junior and Open Show. I also won a belt buckle as Grand Champion Junior Showman. I love showmanship, so winning that buckle was the best feeling!

Above: CX3 Champs Ace 136 at Badger Brawl Below: Blake exhibiting CX3 Miss Ava 126.

KS: If you could change one thing about showing, what would it be?

BB: I’d take the “politics” out of it. Sometimes the most deserving animal or showman doesn’t win, and that’s tough to watch.

KS: What advice would you give to adults in the show world?

BB: I think adults could focus less on winning and more on having fun and making friends. There’s a lot of pressure to do well, and I think it would be better if everyone focused on enjoying the experience.

With his commitment, hard work, and genuine love for mini Herefords, Blake Buck is well on his way to becoming a top competitor in the show ring. From early mornings in the pasture to the thrill of a big win, Blake is proof that passion and dedication can take you far—even at a young age. Keep an eye out for more from Blake and his favorite mini Herefords as he continues to make his mark in the cattle world!

26

MINI

“

“

FOR SALE!

346 PR 8150 Crockett, TX Rebekah Rodgers 512.567.5845

SHF

ET

AHA#... P44135209

Sire... SS Turtle

Dam... XP Heidi

Six Grand Champion & Two Reserve Grand Champion Titles

SHF

AHA#... P44246707

ET

Sire... SHF KI Howie

Dam... HPH 171 W-28

Two Supreme Champion, Two Reserve Supreme Grand Champions, Fourteen Grand Champion & Two Reserve Grand Champion Titles

For SEMEN on Knockdown and Howies West contact...

JULIE & BOB SANDSTROM 2785 County Rd. 728 Huntsville, AR 72740

479.737.5491

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Botie Hillhouse

903.802.5022

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Debbs Hillhouse 903.681.5172 Watch for us at upcoming shows and contact us for Mini Hereford Genetics!

29

STRAITSIDE RANCH

Where Legacy, Love, and Polled Mini Herefords Thrive

By Kyle and Arianne Shipley

When you think of where to raise cattle, the northwesternmost corner of Washington probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. With Canada to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the west, the town of Sequim (pronounced “Skwim”) is best known as the “Lavender Capital of North America.” Thanks to a unique “rain shadow” effect from the Olympic Mountains, it receives only 16 inches of rain annually—far less than its rainy Pacific Northwest neighbors.

But beyond the rows of lavender fields and unexpected sunshine lies a story just as rare as the climate. On a scenic 19-acre piece of land tucked between the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, you’ll find Straitside Ranch, a place where patience, love, and a vision for something bigger have transformed not only a family but an entire breed of cattle.

This is where John and Betty Johnson built their legacy—a legacy that continues to thrive, even after the loss of one of its founders.

30

I

n 1971, John and Betty Johnson started their life together, and just two years later, they settled in Sequim, Washington. They put down roots

in the land and in each other, and by 1984, they had purchased property that soon would become Straitside Ranch. While most of their neighbors opted to grow lavender, John and Betty had something else in mind—cattle.

John, an engineer for the MV Coho ferry, spent his workdays crossing the Strait of Juan de Fuca, a body of water that would later inspire the ranch’s name. His time on the water connected him to the landscape, but it was on land where he pursued a different dream. By 1982, John was raising polled Hereford cattle, and as with most farmers and ranchers, his mind was always turning over ideas for improvement. How could they maximize the value of their small acreage? How could they create

off—25 calves hit the ground, all a blend of mini

something truly special?

and polled Hereford genetics. The herd was smaller

That’s when inspiration struck.

in height, sturdier, and exactly what they had

One day, while flipping through an exotic animal

envisioned. They could then breed these smaller

magazine, John spotted an ad from Largent’s

framed Herefords to the original bull they bought

Point of Rocks Ranch in Fort Davis, Texas. The ad

from Largent, LS Nugget 28.

featured miniature Herefords—a smaller version of

But they weren’t finished yet.

the Hereford breed he already loved. However, as

In 1999, the pivotal moment arrived. That year,

John studied the concept more closely, he realized

SSR Tracer was born—the first homozygous polled

there was a crucial gap in the market: there were no

mini Hereford bull on Straitside Ranch and likely

polled miniature Herefords.

one of the first of his kind in the world. His arrival

The idea sparked something in John and Betty.

wasn’t just a victory for the Johnsons—it was a

If polled mini Herefords didn’t exist, why couldn’t

monumental milestone for the mini Hereford breed

they be the ones to create them?

as a whole. His genetics became the foundation for

Above: John & Betty Johnson.

Below: John & Betty out working on the pens toegther. A normal sight on the ranch!

countless cattle in the industry today. If you own a PIONEERING A BLOODLINE: THE BIRTH OF THE

polled mini Hereford, there’s a good chance Tracer

POLLED MINI HEREFORD

is in its bloodline.

The Johnsons reached out to Rust Largent, and

CHAMPIONING THE BREED: SHOWING CATTLE FROM COAST TO COAST

what began as a business transaction quickly grew

Today, it’s common to see 50 to 100 mini

into a friendship. In 1994, Rust made the 2,000-

Herefords in the show ring at majors nationwide.

mile journey from Texas to Sequim, delivering

But in the early 2000s, that wasn’t the case. Mini

a bull named LS Nugget 28. While Nugget 28

Hereford breeders had to fight for the breed to be recognized at fairs and livestock shows around

showed promise, he wasn’t quite the right size for their polled Herefords yet. So, Rust sent semen from another bull, LS Nugget 13, which allowed the Johnsons to breed mini Hereford genetics into their polled Hereford cows through artificial insemination (AI).

Above: Priority & LS Nugget 26 Below: Born in 1999, SSR Tracer was the first polled mini Hereford bull born on Straitside Ranch.

the country. When an opportunity to exhibit mini Herefords at a new show arose, John and Betty Johnson answered the call every single time.

From the Spokane Interstate Fair to the Miami International, the

Johnsons

crisscrossed the

The process was slow and meticulous. Breeding

country, hauling their cattle to shows both large

for size and temperament takes time, but John and

and small. They were committed to making mini

Betty were patient. By 1997, their hard work paid ...continued on page 32

31

Straitside Ranch continued...

Herefords visible to the public. This often meant taking on the role of both exhibitor and educator. It wasn’t always glamorous, but it was essential.

One of the most iconic moments came in 2000 when the San Antonio Livestock Show finally agreed to allow mini Herefords—but with a catch.

There would be no official judge. Exhibitors would have to sort their own cattle. Most people would have said, “No thanks.” But not John and Betty.

They packed up their cattle and drove the 5,000mile round-trip journey from Washington to Texas,

Left: Welcome to Straitside Ranch, home of the first polled

joining three other breeders to exhibit and judge

mini Herefords.

Above (left to right): Kyle Shipley, Betty Johnson and

their own animals.

Bailey Geniesse.

These early years were marked by grit and

internationally, and thanks to Straitside Ranch,

persistence. “We have shown cattle from the very

shows like the Oregon State Fair just celebrated 25

beginning of our program,” Betty shared. “From

years of showing miniature Herefords.

county fairs to the Oregon State Fair, and The Cow Palace in Daly City, California, to San Antonio and Austin in Texas, and, of course, the National Western Stock Show in Colorado several times.”

John and Betty’s commitment to promoting mini Herefords laid the groundwork for today’s show-

THE LOSS THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING By 2010, Straitside Ranch was a well-known name in the mini Hereford world. The Johnsons had built a legacy from the ground up, one calf at a time.

But that year, everything changed.

ring opportunities and their growing popularity in

Johnny, Betty’s partner of nearly 40 years, passed

the United States and worldwide. Straitside Ranch

away. His loss left an undeniable void—not just in

was instrumental in exporting mini Hereford

Betty’s heart but in every corner of the ranch. His

genetics from the United States to Australia and

presence was everywhere: in the careful placement

New Zealand. The SSR genetics and reputation

of apple trees, the design of their home, and the

paved the way for many breeders, domestically and

gates and locks on every fence. His influence was as much a part of the landscape as the Strait itself.

But Betty didn’t give up.

“I never once thought about selling the cows,” she shared. Instead, she pressed on. She purchased the Vermeer hay baler John had always dreamed of owning—a symbol of her determination to keep moving forward. Today, she continues to bale hay, not only for her own ranch but for her neighbors

Above: Many Oregon State Fair & Cow Palace Champions have come out of Straitside Ranch.

as well.

Betty became the sole caretaker of the ranch,

Below: Straitside Ranch became a member of the

stepping into every role that John had once filled.

American Polled Hereford Association in 1982. In 1995, the

But she wasn’t alone. With her daughters, Jayme

Horned Association and Polled Association merged to form the current day, American Hereford Association.

Williams and Jeanna Geniesse, and their families by her side, they managed the breeding program, tracked bloodlines, and continued to show their cattle at major fairs like the Oregon State Fair, the National Western Stock Show, and even the Miami International in Miami, Florida.

32

GALS WITH GRIT: THE NEXT GENERATION If there’s one thing you learn quickly about Straitside Ranch, it’s that grit runs in the family.

On the day of our visit, we were greeted by Betty and her granddaughter, Bailey Geniesse, who had come to help with daily chores. As we walked the pastures, Bailey listened quietly as Betty shared stories of the ranch’s early days. But when the conversation shifted to who operates the tractor and repairs fences, Bailey broke her silence—with a laugh. “We do it all,” she said, flashing a grin.

Betty and Bailey are living proof that farming is not a “man’s job.” It was inspiring to watch them repair electric fences, run cattle, and share the family’s breeding program goals. These are women with grit—women who refuse to let legacy slip through their fingers.

The Johnsons’ legacy isn’t just in cattle. It’s in the next generation. Bailey, Betty’s daughters, and their children have become an integral part of Straitside Ranch’s ongoing story, stepping up to continue what John and Betty started.

“As we all know, it takes a village, so to speak, to keep up with all the chores. Making hay, irrigation, repairing equipment, fences, the list goes on.

Running the business, selling cattle, answering customers’ questions, and, of course, all the paperwork and keeping Straitside in the show world took many hands to make this happen,” Betty explained.

As a family, they continued focusing on their

breeding program, always looking toward the future of these minis. Improvement has always been at the forefront of the Straitside program. “The cattle that John had desired, we’ve done our best to follow his dream,” Betty shared.

SSR TRACER’S LASTING IMPACT While Betty and Bailey keep the daily operations

and functional.

“The cattle that John had desired, we’ve done our best to follow his dream,” Betty says with pride.

In 2025, it will be 15 years since John’s passing.

SSR Tracer’s Legacy

But Betty, Bailey, and the rest of the Johnson family are still carrying the torch, ensuring that Straitside

SSR Tracer: 84 offspring

Ranch remains a landmark for innovation, grit, and

SSR Kimberly Trace 01: 22 offspring

perseverance.

SS KC Joe 996 ET: 113 offspring SS Mr. Kirk: 101 offspring

running, the impact of their efforts stretches far

The story of Straitside Ranch isn’t just about the

beyond their fences. The name SSR Tracer lives on in

cattle. It’s about people—a husband and wife who built

SS Silverstone: 123 offspring

the lineage of polled mini Herefords all over the world.

a dream together, a widow who refused to give up, and a

SS Sir Gene (“Mean Gene”): 174 offspring

His descendants include SSR Kimberly Trace 01 and

family determined to keep that dream alive.

her son, SS KC Joe 996 ET, whose progeny continue to

If you’ve ever run your hand along the back of a

These six animals alone account for over

polled mini Hereford, there’s a chance you’ve felt the

600 registered mini Herefords, a legacy that

Today, breeders nationwide strive to achieve the

influence of SSR Tracer. And if you’ve ever set foot on

continues to impact the breed to this day.

same success that Straitside Ranch pioneered. But no

Straitside Ranch, you’ve witnessed the lasting impact of

matter how far Tracer’s bloodline travels, his legacy

love, patience, and perseverance.

influence breeders far and wide.

always points back to one place: Sequim, Washington.

FOLLOW THE LEGACY THE FUTURE OF STRAITSIDE RANCH

Follow Straitside Ranch and see the next generation

Even as Betty approaches retirement, the family

of mini Herefords in action. Visit Straitside Ranch on

remains dedicated to improvement, legacy, and love.

Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/StraitsideRanch)

Every breeding decision is still rooted in John’s original

for updates on cattle for sale, farm life, and glimpses

vision of what a mini Hereford should be: polled, sound,

into the family that’s keeping the dream alive.

In our future editions, we aim to continue our journey of interviewing the early buyers and breeders.

33

34

AHA# P44066103 TPCC Princess Nash 6611 ET x Mean Gene Resident herd sire at Star Ranch EYO Reserve Champion Bull

Bred by Star Ranch

Bred by Star Ranch

Calves availabe year round.

Call for more information and availability.

Gene & Cindy McDowell Dayton, TX

281.615.4863

35

6

&

SHOW ‘E M

C

‘EM GROW

6

C

CANNON CATTLE MINI HEREFORDS

Cottondale, Florida Facebook: Cannon Cattle Mini Herefords

36

Heath Cannon: 850-843-0888 heathcannon3@gmail.com

N O I P M CHA

S C I T E N GE

Heifers and Bull calves For Sale year round!

Dane Bergin Wichita Falls, TX

940.631.9214

37

BREEDER SPOTLIGHT

A RANCHERS HAVEN IN THE LAND OF THE FALLING WATER Tucked into the rolling hills of Quebeck, Tennessee, White Buffalo Ranch embodies resilience, family values, and a commitment to excellence in mini Hereford cattle. Nestled in White County— known as “A Hiker’s Heaven in the Land of Falling Water”—off of Buffalo Road, the ranch thrives in the scenic backdrop of lush pastures and abundant natural resources. Here, the Oosthuizen family has built a legacy rooted in their South African heritage and sustained by a passion for quality breeding and sustainable farming.

BY KYLE SHIPLEY

38

T

he Oosthuizen family’s journey is one of

these wet and often humid conditions, the Oosthuizens

breeding are steered early and raised for beef, which

determination and heart. Originally from South

report that mini Herefords thrive in their environment.

enhances herd quality while providing high-quality

Africa, Johan, Marlene, and their son Nico

Rotational grazing is key in managing the land and

immigrated to America in 2008 for new opportunities.

ensuring healthy pastures. Their lighter weight allows

One of their greatest achievements includes

Over time, their dream grew to include Nico’s wife,

mini Herefords to have less impact on muddy pastures,

purchasing top-quality bloodlines such as KAP DISCO

Kimberly, and their growing family. In 2018, they took

making them well-suited to the Tennessee climate.

KID, BGB BEN DOVER, HORSESHOE B MR. 11B1F (Gus),

a significant step toward self-sufficiency by purchasing

“Despite occasional dry spells or muddy conditions,

and raising a Reserve Grand Champion at the North

32 acres of fertile pastureland in Tennessee.

these challenges haven’t caused significant issues for

Carolina State Fair. In the show ring, their ultimate

our herd,” they explain.

goal is to raise a Grand Champion, which reflects their

At first, the goal was simple: maintain the land.

commitment to producing high-quality cattle.

“Hey, we need something to eat the grass!” the family joked. While searching for the perfect “lawnmower,”

CAREFUL

they discovered mini Herefords through an ad from

QUALITY

SELECTION

AND

COMMITMENT

TO

Buck & Bull Cattle Ranch in Franklin, Tennessee.

The Oosthuizens pride themselves on their careful

Johan’s background in farming, coupled with his prior

selection of breeding stock and the consistent quality

familiarity with Herefords, made the mini version an

of their herd. “We don’t shy away from animals with

ideal fit. They started with one cow and two heifers—

horns and prioritize natural beauty, such as curly hair,

and from there, White Buffalo Ranch was born.

rich color, and the strong build that mini Herefords are

“The idea of mini Herefords appealed to us as we

meat products for their growing beef business.

known for,” they share.

were looking for a breed that could be easily managed

Success hinges on thoughtful genetic selection.

and interacted with, especially since we have young

The family monitors calf development with a focus

children. We fell in love with these three creatures,”

on structure and health. These principles guide their

Kimberly recalls.

breeding program, ensuring every animal contributes

their mini bikes.

meaningfully to the ranch’s future. Bulls not sold for

Below: The Oosthuizen Family at White Buffalo Ranch in

FROM GATEWAY LIVESTOCK TO A GROWING HERD

Above: The Oosthuizen kids rounding up their mini herd on

Quebeck, Tennessee.

For the rest of the family, farming was a brand-new endeavor. “We started with chickens (the ‘gateway livestock’), then added guineas, Boer goats, and finally mini Herefords,” Kimberly shares. While Johan’s time on South African farms gave him a head start, the family leaned on the mentorship of experienced breeders like Julie Sandstrom and Holly Schafer to navigate the challenges of raising and breeding cattle.

One defining moment came on a freezing morning when a heifer unexpectedly calved and appeared to abandon her baby. Kimberly turned to Holly Schafer for guidance, “Holly was available to talk me through it at that moment.” Moments like these reinforced the family’s growing knowledge and confidence, helping them develop a resilient approach to ranching.

A CLIMATE-FITTING BREED The ranch’s environment plays a crucial role in its success. On the Cumberland Plateau, White County experiences mild, humid subtropical weather with average highs of 68°F and lows of 47°F. Rainfall is abundant, totaling about 54 inches annually. Despite

...continued on page 40

39

Breeder’s Spotlight continued...

Mini Hereford Media, giving consumers confidence in

FROM SELF-SUFFICIENCY TO NATIONAL BEEF

the unique quality of the meat.

VISION FOR THE FUTURE Looking ahead, White Buffalo Ranch envisions a

Looking ahead, the family plans to offer curated

future where mini Herefords are prized for more than

White Buffalo Ranch began as a father-and-son

boxes of individual cuts as well as South African

just their place in the show ring. The family believes the

dream of creating a peaceful, self-sufficient farm life.

delicacies like boerewors (farmer’s sausage), droëwors

breed’s potential as a sustainable food source is equally

However, their original goal of raising food for their

(air-dried mini sausages), and biltong (air-dried jerky).

important. “I hope to see mini Herefords recognized

family has evolved to include a growing beef business

These offerings showcase their heritage and reflect

not only in shows but also for the quality of their

that ships farm-raised meat products across the United

their mission to bring high-quality, diverse products to

meat. It’s important for more people to experience

States.

families nationwide.

and appreciate what Mini Herefords can offer, both as

SALES

livestock and as a sustainable food source. If the Mini

The family currently sells beef in whole, half, quarter, and eighth portions, requiring deposits to

MARKETING MADE SIMPLE AND ACCESSIBLE

Hereford Breeders Association and breeders work

secure orders and ensure fresh, high-quality meat is

Marketing their mini Herefords is as much about

together to get the word (and meat samples!) out,

processed to order. But they’re not stopping there. By

connection as it is about cattle. White Buffalo Ranch

we can achieve the recognition the breed deserves,”

2025, White Buffalo Ranch will process its first batch

employs a modern, accessible approach to reach a

Kimberly shared.

of mini Hereford beef, marking the beginning of a

broad customer base. They use Facebook and Craigslist

Education, advocacy, and—most importantly—taste

new chapter. “I’d love to stamp those packages with

to showcase available animals and keep an open line of

tests will be essential to achieving this vision. Their

Certified Mini Hereford Beef,” exclaimed Kimberly,

communication with potential buyers. Their website

upcoming 2025 launch of mini Hereford beef products

referring to the new marketing initiative rolled out by

serves as a central hub for information and updates.

will be a pivotal moment for the breed. By offering

A unique selling point in their marketing is how

South African specialties like boerewors, droëwors,

easy their cattle are to handle. “All animals for sale

and biltong, White Buffalo Ranch will bring a new

are halter-broken, making it easier for new owners to

dimension to the market, blending culture, quality, and

handle them immediately,” Kimberly explains. Selling

craftsmanship.

halter-broke cattle ensures a smooth transition for new

Their dedication to health, quality, and authenticity

owners and makes their cattle more approachable for

ensures they will remain champions of the breed. Just as

families, beginners, and seasoned breeders. As a result,

the Oosthuizens stay true to their South African roots,

White Buffalo Ranch has become a trusted source for

they are equally committed to honoring the natural

high-quality mini Herefords.

essence of mini Herefords. By embracing what makes both their family and their cattle unique—strength,

Above: Nico and Kimberly Oosthuizen are packing a beef order to ship out.

Below: Mini Hereford beef from White Buffalo Ranch is coming in 2025!

ADVICE FOR ASPIRING BREEDERS

resilience, and genuine character—they uphold the

For those considering raising mini Herefords, the

integrity of the breed. Through thoughtful breeding

Oosthuizens offer timeless advice. “Be adaptable and

practices, they aim to protect and enhance mini

resilient,” they stress, “have a solid plan, but also be

Hereford genetics for generations to come, ensuring

ready to adjust as you learn more.” They encourage

that authenticity remains at the heart of everything

aspiring breeders to seek out mentors and build a

they do.

support network.

Their experience highlights the importance of prioritizing health and quality over the competitiveness of the show ring. Early obstacles like building infrastructure and managing fencing taught them that success isn’t always fast—but it’s always worth it. They also emphasize the power of family support. As a family juggling ranching alongside other trucking jobs, the Oosthuizens know firsthand how crucial teamwork is to maintaining farm operations.

Johan Oosthuizen with his grandson, Elijah at White Buffalo Ranch.

40

FOLLOW WHITE BUFFALO RANCH As the Oosthuizens look to the future, they see growth, legacy, and sustainability at the heart of their mission. Their story reminds us that small beginnings

Beauty is in the eye of the be[ef]holder

can grow into something larger than imagined as long

Mini Herefords generally have a recognizable appearance, but breeders often develop specific

as the journey is guided by purpose, passion, and family

preferences for their herds. “When selecting heifers or bulls, their appearance is our first consideration.

unity.

To learn more about White Buffalo Ranch, visit

We look for animals that exhibit strong, healthy characteristics. While pedigree is important, it’s not the sole factor. We strive to breed animals that stand out in both physical attributes and genetic quality,” shares Kimberly Oosthuizen.

their website at whitebuffalo-ranch.com or follow them on Facebook (@whitebuffaloranch.tn) and Instagram

At White Buffalo Ranch, these preferences include:

(@whitebuffaloranch2018).

Polled or Horned? No preference!

Dark or Light Red? Medium to dark red Frame Score Target? Frame 0-1 to align with our goals for breeding robust, well-sized animals suited to our farming practices and customer preferences.

Live breed, AI, or Embryo Transfer? We utilize AI with a champion bull for clean-up.

Ideal bull? Strong, masculine, sturdy on his feet (Our bull Kidd Fire resembles this for us right now!)

Ideal heifer? Feminine front end, ample room on the back end for ease of calving

Nickella, Elijah and Leah Oosthuizen proudly showing their Reserve Grand Champion Bull banners and ribbons from the North Carolina State Fair.

41

ONLINE SALES REPORT

BARBER MINIS

CHRISTENSON CATTLE CO., LLC

Cloverdale, Indiana | Oct. 3, 2024 Auctioneer: SmartAuctions Reported By: Rylee Matheny

Linden, IA | Oct. 29, 2024 Auctioneer: SC Online Sales Reported By: Jennifer Christenson

Lots 1 Steer 7 Open Heifers

Lots 3 Steers 5 Open Heifers 1 Bred Cow

Gross $5,000 $35,250

Average $5,000 $5,035

High Selling Lot $7,000 – BR MELANIE 211M ET DOB: 2/29/2024 Sired by DUFF LITTLE BIG TOWN Sold to the McEndaffer Family, CO.

Average $2,166 $4,350 $4,500

High Selling Lot $6,000 - CX3 MISS HOLLY 169 ET DOB: 3/2024 Sired by SS SIR GENE Sold to Jackson Classen, IA

$7,000 – BR KAREN 210M ET DOB: 2/25/2024 Sired by DUFF LITTLE BIG TOWN Sold to the Driskell Family, OK

Correction To The Spring Sales Report 4 Wiley Farm, LLC Mount Vernon, OH | April 30, 2024 Auctioneer: SC Online Sales Reported By: Isaac Wiley

$7,000 – BR LILIANA 228M ET DOB: 5/22/2024 Sired by BR YETI G012 ET Sold to the Camp Family, TX.

FALL 2024 SALES

Gross $6,500 $21,750 $4,500

Lots 4 Open Heifers 3 Bulls

Have an upcoming online sale? Post the results with us!

Gross $14,650 $7,400

Average $3,662.50 $2,466.66

High Selling Lots $4,500 - 4 WILEY KINSLEY DOB: 6/27/2023 Sired by JW’S GUNSLINGER Sold to Jason Suarez, TX

Email theminiherefordjournal@gmail.com

$4,500 - 4 WILEY RAIN’S REMEDY DOB: 7/11/2023 Sired by 4 WILEY SIR SMITH Sold to William Scott, TX

Maximize Your Cattle Sales with Mini Hereford Media’s Email Marketing, mini Blast

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managing interactions that don’t lead to sales, you’re

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Hereford Journal and the Certified Mini Hereford

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42

When you partner with Mini Hereford Media, you’re ...continued on page 52

AHA: 44054059 SIRE: KAP HUNTER LITNIN DAM: BELLA HORNED

EXIT198

GF

EXIT 198 is an entry to NEW GENETICS! Contact owners for semen

John henkhaus 325.939.1400 HENKHAUSLIVESTOCK@GMAIL.COM

KYLE SHIPLEY 903.879.4703 KYLE_SHIPLEY@YAHOO.COM

43

AMERICAN ROYAL Kansas City, Missouri

44

Grand Champion Female - Junior Show SCC HEARTSTOPPER Deacon James

Reserve Champion Female - Junior Show TAY REBAS RENEE Tate Taylor

Grand Champion Female - Open Show RF SWIRLIN SNOW CASEY ET Karlie Janeczko

Reserve Champion Female - Open Show SCC HEARTSTOPPER Deacon James

Grand Champion Bull - Open Show THF UP NORTH 326 Brenna Thorson

Reserve Champion Bull - Open Show KLD TIMES UP KLD Mini Herefords

STATE FAIR OF TEXAS

Dallas, Texas

Grand Champion Female - Junior Show CACTUS MS CLARA 102M Charlie Dreibrodt

Reserve Champion Female - Junior Show KLD IMA DANDY 807L ET Weslynn Elliott

Grand Champion Female - Open Show CACTUS MS CLARA 102M Charlie Dreibrodt

Reserve Champion Female - Open Show MS LITTLE BOMB POP Kohen Touchstone

Grand Champion Bull - Open Show KR MR SIMBA Elliott Family Cattle

Reserve Champion Bull - Open Show WICKED OAKS PICO DE GALLO Cameron Brown

45

NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL LIVESTOCK EXPOSITION

46

Louisville, Kentucky

Grand Champion Female - Pre-Junior Show DLC FEELIN PEACHY Lorrie Daigle

Reserve Champion Female - Pre-Junior Show TG4 Sparkles Berkley Went

Grand Champion Female - Junior Show CBD MITCH THIS AINT KANSAS Saphira Uptergrove

Reserve Champion Female - Junior Show KLD TIME TO SHINE Kanyen Dopps & KAL Enterprises

Grand Champion Female - Open Show KLD COCOA 356L Willow Fields

Reserve Champion Female - Open Show KLD MONICA KLD Mini Herefords

Grand Champion Bull - Open Show BR JIMI Barber Minis

Reserve Champion Bull - Open Show THF UP NORTH 326 Brenna Thorson

UPCOMING SHOW SCHEDULE

December 2024 - June 2025

THE MINI HEREFORD

JOURNAL

Sponsorships

Arizona National | Phoenix, AZ | December 27 - 31, 2024

WO R L D C L A S S CAT T L E | WO R L DW I D E N E W S

TMHJ is proud to be able to support the following Winter 2024 mini Hereford show:

Louisiana State Fair - LA $150 Arizona National - AZ $500 TOTAL SPONSORSHIP DONATIONS $650

Cattlemen’s Congress | Oklahoma City, OK | January 4 - 6, 2025 National Western Stock Show | Denver, CO | January 9 - 13, 2025 San Antonio Livestock Exposition | San Antonio, TX | February 6 - 9, 2025 Dixie National | Jackson, MS | February 13 - 14, 2025 Iowa Beef Expo | Des Moines, IA | February 15 - 18, 2025 Oklahoma Youth Expo | Oklahoma City, OK | March 14 - 15, 2025 Ohio Beef Expo | Columbus, OH | March 13 - 16, 2025 Texas Youth Expo | Brenham, TX | May 2025 Texas Hereford State Show | Belton, TX | June 4 - 7, 2025 MHBA Jr Nationals | Lubbock, TX | June 15 - 20, 2025 MHJNA Jr Nationals | Stillwater, OK | June 16 - 21, 2025

Have a show to add to our list?

Please let us know at theminiherefordjournal@gmail.com.

47

BREEDERS DIRECTORY UNITED STATES Arizona

BHB Miniature Herefords Waddell, Arizona Facebook: BHB Mini Herefords Mart Burt: 602-885-5517 M.burt23@gmail.com Shirlene Burt: 623-340-3182 Prefix: BHB

Arkansas Hilltop Cattle Company Waldo, Arkansas Mark Fullenwider: 870-904-8402 showstick1973@yahoo.com Ashlyn Fullenwider Ryleigh Fullenwider Prefix: HTCC Sandy Hills Farm Huntsville, Arkansas sandyhillsfarm.com Julie Sandstrom: 479-737-5491 Julieasandstrom@gmail.com Prefix: SHF

California Credo Ranch at Chapel Hill Red Buff, California credoranch@gmail.com Donna Marino: 714-336-5348 Michael Marino: 714-388-2586 Prefix: CRCH

Colorado Black Canyon Miniature Herefords Olathe, Colorado bcminiherefords@gmail.com Austin, Andrea, Trey & Maggie Stone 970-275-9532 Prefix: BCMH Riverside Ranch Pueblo, Colorado Shawna Fair: 719-989-7688 Ryli West: 719-252-2292 Ryliwest14@gmail.com Prefix: Riverside

Florida C6 Cannon Mini Hereford Cottondale, Florida Facebook: Cannon Cattle Mini Herefords Heath Cannon: 850-843-0888 heathcannon3@gmail.com Prefix: C6

48

Illinois Fat Bottom Farm Milan, Illinois Facebook: Fat Bottom Farm Miniature Herefords Laurie Bennett: 309-236-8490 Laurie.Bennett99@gmail.com Prefix: FBF Willow Creek Farm Mini Herefords Shannon, Illinois Facebook: Willow Creek Farm Mini Herefords willowcrkfrm@yahoo.com Albert Kelchner: 815-291-1388 albert.kelchner@gmail.com Prefix: WCF

Indiana Barber Minis Cloverdale, Indiana & Channing, Texas Rylee Barber Matheny: 806-676-0098 Rylee.R.Barber@gmail.com Robyn Samsel: 812-236-1159 Ryan Samsel: 812-230-1020 Prefix: BR KAL Enterprises Columbus, Indiana Facebook: KAL Enterprises Mini Herefords kalminiherefords@gmail.com Ben Givens: 812-896-6476 Glenn Meek: 812-344-4862 Prefix: KAL Lazy G O Ranch Heltonville, Indiana Graham Ormiston: 563-202-0740 lazygoherefords@yahoo.com Candice Ormiston: 812-583-0040 Facebook: Lazy G O Miniature Herefords Prefix: LGO TR2K Mini Herefords Huntington, Indiana Brian Spice: 260-355-0249 brian@johnsonpetroleum.com Abbey Spice: 260-888-5834 abbey_spice@outlook.com Prefix: TR2K

Iowa Christenson Cattle Company Linden, Iowa cccminiherefords.com Jennifer Christenson: 515-729-4141 Christensonjennifer@rocketmail.com Scot Christenson: 515-240-9525 Prefix: CX3

Streeter’s Half-Pint Herefords New Virginia, Iowa Streeterherefords.com Brenda Streeter: 515-205-6142 brstreeter@iowatelecom.net Ryan Streeter: 641-414-4190 Brady Streeter: 515-205-6042 Prefix: SHH

Kansas KLD Mini Herefords Louisburg, Kansas Facebook: KLD Mini Herefords Steve Sanders, Owner Darrin Barbour, Manager - 816-898-8990 darrinbarbour@icloud.com Prefix: KLD

Kentucky Hales Miniature Herefords Perryville, Kentucky Facebook: Hales Herefords Josh Hale: 859-319-3451 joshua.hale@live.com Tiffany Hale: 859-583-2794 Prefix: HHF

Louisiana Oak Mound Farm Greenwell Springs, Louisiana Angela LeBlanc: 225-301-2566 angela@magtitlebr.com Barry Elkins Prefix: OM Rocking B Ranch Church Point, Louisiana Facebook: Rocking B Ranch Damon Bellard: 337-654-6045 damonbellard@yahoo.com Justine Bellard: 337-331-4485 Prefix: RBR Southern Blackwater Farms Madisonville, Louisiana southernblackwaterfarms@gmail.com Melinda Bouterie-Badon: 504-874-0202 Derrick Badon: 985-373-2635 Prefix: SBF Triple T Livestock Paulina, Louisiana Facebook: Triple T Livestock Marc Becnel: 985-703-0550 Prefix: Triple T

BREEDERS DIRECTORY Minnesota

New Mexico

Hoban Miniature Herefords Detroit Lakes, Minnesota Kurt Hoban: 612-508-2359 hobankurt@gmail.com Prefix: HMH

ABJ Cattle Company Hondo, New Mexico Facebook: ABJ Miniature Hereford Cattle Fallon Velasquez: 575-781-0725 velasquezfallon@yahoo.com Alice Velasquez: 575-781-0102 alicevelasquez@hotmail.com Prefix: ABJ

Missouri BriggsMiller Mini Herefords Rocky Comfort, Missouri briggsmillerminiherefords@gmail.com Karen Briggs: 970-376-0912 Daryn Miller Prefix: BMR Lazy 2 R Mini Herefords Birch Tree, Missouri Lazy2rminiherefords.net Facebook: Lazy 2R Mini Herefords Lazy2rminiherf@yahoo.com Hal Ryan: 417-872-7789 Tresa Ryan: 417-327-5668 Prefix: L2R Ozark Cattle Company Ulman, Missouri Facebook: Ozark Cattle Company Instagram: Ozark Cattle Company Kim Kiser: 573-480-2523 kkiserhereford@gmail.com Bob Kiser: 573-418-7292 ozarkcattlecompany@yahoo.com Prefix: OCC

Nebraska Splitt Creek Ranch Kids Ranch North Platte, Nebraska splittcreekranch.com Judy Splitt: 308-530-1287 judysplitt@gmail.com Shaun Brott: 308-530-4161 Kily Brott: 308-530-4151 Prefix: SS KR

New Jersey RWV Land and Livestock South Inc. Jackson, New Jersey Facebook: RWV Land and Livestock Diane Vogel: 732-364-1070 ddv8661@gmail.com Jeff Vogel: 732-489-2162 Prefix: RWV

New York BenzWick Acres Stuyvesant, New York bwminiherefords.com Shanna Pickwick: 518-929-4346 shannapickwick@gmail.com Prefix: BW

North Dakota G6 Mini Herefords Fullerton, North Dakota Justin Gemar: 701-678-3284 justingemar@gmail.com Prefix: G6

Ohio Ely Livestock Covington, Ohio Rus Ely: 937-603-0055 Raelivestock@gmail.com Prefix: EL EZ Farms-Miniature Herefords & Aberdeen Brookville, Ohio ezfarmsohio@gmail.com Lon Chambers: 937-657-1432 Michelle Chambers: 937-657-6498 Prefix: EZ Nunnya Farm Woodsfield, Ohio Carla Pack: 740-472-1861 carla.pack@yahoo.com James Beech: 740-472-1861 Prefix: NF

Oklahoma C Bar B Ranch Roff, Oklahoma cbarbranch.com Charles Rohla: 580-480-1253 charles.rohla@okstate.edu Andrea Bryant-Rohla: 580-421-2551 andrea.bryant@okstate.edu Prefix: CR

Jena Jones Land & Cattle Crescent, Oklahoma Jena Jones: 580-370-1705 jones1gardencenter@gmail.com Steve Jones: 580-334-9140 Prefix: JLJ Mendell Cattle Co. Vinita, Oklahoma Facebook: Mendell Cattle Co. Paul Mendell: 918-694-2880 cowtown018@yahoo.com Prefix: MCC

Oregon F & V Cattle Company Canby, Oregon fandvcattleco@gmail.com Vera Fleckenstein: 503-260-1839 Frank Fleckenstein: 503-260-1825 Prefix: FV KMC Cattle Company Dallas, Oregon Facebook: KMC Cattle Company Cole Setniker: 503- 508-3122 csetniker@gmail.com Eric Setniker: 503-308-2112 ericsetniker@gmail.com Prefix: KMC

South Dakota Hat City Cattle Co. Fedora, South Dakota Facebook: Hat City Cattle Co. Stephanie Stevens: 605-770-4406 stevens_gs@hotmail.com Gavin Stevens: 605-579-0029 Prefix: HCC Rawden Ranch Mina, South Dakota Jeremy Rawden: 605-380-5886 jarawden@live.com Amanda Rawden: 605-380-3501 Prefix: CR SEAL Livestock Aberdeen, South Dakota seallivestock.com Sheryl Erickson: 605-380-8291 sjerickson@nvc.net Allen Luce: 605-380-9700 Prefix: SEAL

49

BREEDERS DIRECTORY Tennessee White Buffalo Ranch Quebeck, Tennessee whitebuffalo-ranch.com Facebook: White Buffalo Ranch info@whitebuffalomeats.com Kimberly Oosthuizen: 865-384-7090 Nico Oosthuizen: 214-458-5067 Prefix: WBR

Texas Bergin Miniature Herefords Wichita Falls, Texas Facebook: Bergin Miniature Herefords Dane Bergin: 940-631-9214 Dane_bergin@yahoo.com Prefix: BMH Cunningham Show Cattle Holland, Texas Facebook: Cunningham Show Cattle CunninghamShowCattle@gmail.com Melissa Cunningham: 254-913-0612 Drue Cunningham: 254-444-0275 Prefix: JLC GL Ranch Mini Herefords Kempner, Texas Facebook: GL Ranch Mini Herefords glranchminiherefords@yahoo.com Ronald Groothoff: 254-290-2978 Catherine Groothoff Prefix: GL Glory Farms Streetman, Texas gfherefords.com Facebook: Glory Farms gfherefords@gmail.com Kyle Shipley: 903-879-4703 Robert Shipley: 903-879-4023 Prefix: GF Hidden Pond Ranch Wills Point, Texas hiddenpondranch.com Facebook: Hidden Pond Ranch Hiddenpondranch@gmail.com Steve McHugh: 972-207-4750 Kathy McHugh: 269-369-7257 Prefix: HPR Hillhouse Farms Athens, Texas Facebook: Hillhouse Farms Botie Hillhouse: 903-802-5022 botiehillhouse@yahoo.com Prefix: HF

50

Ivy Cattle Company Seguin, Texas Marilyn and David Ivy: 830-660-1229 McIvy5@gmail.com Bryan Ivy: 214-317-9039 Kevyn Ivy: 210-204-1873 Prefix: IVY KAP Miniature Cattle Menard/Brady, Texas Facebook: KAP Miniature Cattle Kimberly Powell: 503-407-4641 kpowellsieveke@hotmail.com kapminiaturecattle@gmail.com Prefix: KAP LMT Ranch Celina, Texas Facebook: LMT Ranch-Mini Herefords Instagram: @lmtranchminiherefords LeAnn Schmitt: 214-218-6670 leanns6987@gmail.com Prefix: LMT Open Top M Cattle Company Gatesville, Texas Facebook: Open Top M Cattle Company Thad Maples: 254-554-1433 tbmtamu@yahoo.com Prefix: OTM Ox-Haus Mini Herefords Magnolia, Texas Facebook: Ox-Haus Livestock Julia Venghaus 281-250-8252 oxhausminis@gmail.com Prefix: OX Point of Rocks Ranch Fort Davis, Texas Roy Largent IV 432-249-1163 Prefix: LS Red Barn Herefords Mart, Texas Facebook: Red Barn Herefords Tim McDermott: 254-733-6300 Shelly McDermott Prefix: RBH Skunk Ranch Herefords Rio Vista, Texas Facebook: Skunk Ranch Herefords Harold Pugh: 817-659-6674 skunkranch.herefords@yahoo.com JeriLynn Tucker: 817-773-4269 Prefix: SR

Smejkal Show Cattle/McCall Mini Herefords Caldwell, Texas smejkalshowcattle@gmail.com Tori Smejkal: 817-694-8533 Prefix: DMC Star Miniature Herefords Dayton, Texas Facebook: Star Miniature Herefords Cindy McDowell: 281-615-4863 cindym@arnoldconstruction.net Tay’s Minis Eagle Lake, Texas Facebook: Tay’s Minis Instagram: Tays.Minis Taylor Evoritt Gannon: 979-255-7989 TGG Livestock George West, Texas Facebook: TGG Livestock tgglivestock@gmail.com Bryan Garza: 361-816-2601 Prefix: TGG Trapped In Time Miniature Herefords Lyford, Texas trappedintimeminiherefords.com trappedintimeminiherefords@gmail.com Kevin Trapp: 956-642-7056 Andrea Trapp: 956-778-1989 Montanna Trapp Prefix: MLT Vanishing Springs Ranch Crockett, Texas Rebekah Rodgers: 512-567-5848 Email: rebekahrodgers61@gmail.com Facebook: VSR Miniature Herefords Prefix: VSR

Utah Diamond H Farms Amalga, Utah Rulon Carlisle: 435-512-4275 Herf.4373@gmail.com Prefix: DHF Rasmussen Mini Herefords Nephi, Utah Jaclyn Crum: 480-980-5854 Rjcrum88@gmail.com Ryan Crum: 480-789-2775 Grant Rasmussen: 435-660-1303 uvgrasmu@gmail.com Prefix: RF

BREEDERS DIRECTORY Washington

Wisconsin

Wyoming

McIntosh Minis Ellensburg, Washington Facebook: McIntosh Minis mcintoshminis.com mcintoshminis@gmail.com Charles McIntosh: 509-859-6712 Prefix: CAM

Hideaway Ranch Reedsville, Wisconsin Facebook: Hideaway Ranch Mini Herefords Hideawayranch08@gmail.com Miranda MacDonald: 920-860-7408 Prefix: HR

Snider Vue Miniature Herefords Douglas, Wyoming Bill Snider: 307-359-2728 Wy0ming2001@gmail.com Cheri Snider: 307-351-0515 Prefix: Snider Vue

Straitside Ranch Sequim, Washington straitside@q.com Betty Johnson: 360-683-6527 Cell: 360-565-4483 Prefix: SSR

INTERNATIONAL AUSTRALIA New South Wales

Fiddlewood Farm Miniature Herefords High Range, Southern Highlands NSW Marvilles Farm Oberon

Sandy Acres Elk Mound, Wisconsin Sandy-acres.com sandyacres.elkmound@gmail.com Marie Pagenkopf: 715-579-2917 Prefix: Sandy Acres

Tasmania

COLOMBIA

Benscroft Miniature Herefords Henrietta, NW Tas Boomer Creek Boomer Creek, Tas

CGR Biotecnología Reproductiva Zipaquirá, Colombia Cgrbiotecnologia.com +57 311 2599024 Paco Carrillo: +52 33 1024 9834

Little Things Farm Deloraine, Tas

MEXICO

Victoria

Rancho El Rocio Cofradia Tlajomulco de Zúñiga, Mexico ranchoelrocio@hotmail.com Paco Carrillo +52 33 1024 9834

Wybalena Mandemar, NSW

Queensland Frisky Midgets Miniature Herefords Yarwun, Central Qld Hinterland Miniature Herefords Sunshine Coast, Qld Rodridge - John & Gail Martin Qld Sandrian Park Miniature Herefords Gatton, SE Qld

South Australia Bullford Miniature Herefords Balaklava, SA Tilsheadsc Sandy Creek, SA VonGlen AG Fleurieu Penninsula, SA

Caruso Farms Lake Boga, VIC Devine Cattle Company Naree Warren, VIC Shady Creek Miniature Herefords Nilma, VIC

NEW ZEALAND Rocklyn Miniature Hereford Stud New Plymouth, New Zealand Rocklynstud.co.nz Vicky Ashton: 064275473258 Vlashton@me.com

Tambo Flat Miniature Herefords Swifts Creek, VIC Tulum Gully Balnarring, VIC Winswood Miniature Herefords Woodside North, South Gippsland, VIC Carl & Kelly McKenzie Warnambool, VIC Paul Sanders Pimpino, VIC

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51

Mini Media Blast continued...

into an established brand that people trust and rely on

tapping into a network of people who have already

for valuable information and industry updates. This

expressed interest in your type of cattle. These are

means you’re not just marketing your cattle but also

potential buyers genuinely invested in what you’re

aligning with a name that carries credibility.

offering—people with a real need and intent to buy.

“

This targeted approach saves you time, minimizes the

WHY CHOOSE MINI HEREFORD MEDIA? At Mini Hereford Media, we understand the specific

frustration of unqualified inquiries, and maximizes

needs of mini Hereford breeders and their unique

your opportunity for sales.

challenges in marketing their livestock. We’ve built a reputation as experts in the mini Hereford community

I am very thankful for the mini

and use that expertise to benefit our clients. Our mini Blast service offers:

Blast. My sale saw an increase

“

in registered bidders from our

Targeted Outreach: Directly reach serious

previous online sales. We had

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buyers from Iowa, Tennessee,

Time-Saving: No more endless back-and-forth

Indiana, Oklahoma and Texas.

on social media or unqualified leads.

Increased Visibility: Gain exposure beyond your local circle and connect with a broader audience.

– Judy Splitt, Splitt Creek Ranch HOW IT WORKS

Professional Marketing: We create and distribute your message to ensure it’s polished and effective

The process is simple. After you sign up for the mini

Blast, Mini Hereford Media will send a carefully curated

At just $150, this service is a small investment that

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REACH A BROADER AUDIENCE MORE EFFECTIVELY

can yield big results. Whether you’re looking to move

potential buyers. You provide the details of what you’re

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a few head of cattle or expand your breeding program,

selling—for example, online sale, beef: individual

list of potential buyers, the mini Blast allows you to

the mini Blast is a cost-effective way to increase your

cuts, quarters, halves, whole carcasses, show cattle,

expand your customer base beyond local or regional

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breeding stock or pets, or anything else related to mini

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READY TO GET STARTED?

Herefords—and we’ll handle the rest.

a wider geographical area or want to put your cattle in

Don’t let window shoppers waste your time any

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longer. Take the first step toward reaching a wider

cast a wider net.

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We craft a professional email highlighting your offering and include any special promotions, pricing, or unique selling points you want to highlight. This

Mini Hereford Media already has a strong reputation

Media’s mini Blast. With our help, you can focus on

practical and affordable marketing strategy removes

in the industry through platforms like The Mini

what matters most—raising quality cattle—while we

the hassle of cold calling, waiting for responses, or

Hereford Journal and the Certified Mini Hereford Beef

handle the marketing.

chasing down leads.

program. Using our email blast service, you’re tapping

To learn more or sign up for our mini Blast service, visit tmhjournal.com or contact us at theminiherefordjournal@gmail.com.

Let us help you take your business to the next level.

Mini Hereford Media, LLC: connecting mini Hereford breeders worldwide.

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TODAY IS YOUR OPPORTUNITY BUILD THE TOMORROW YOU WANT. At Trans Ova Genetics, we’re empowering breeders to build a tomorrow that exceeds expectations. We provide the complete toolbox of services you need to create a legacy of excellence. Today’s choices shape tomorrow’s success. Choose Trans Ova Genetics and leave a lasting legacy for the next generation.

For a full list of locations, visit www.transova.com

embryo transfer • in vitro fertilization • sexed semen Donor Housing • recipient options • Genetic Preservation • Cloning

LAURIE BENNETT

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Laurie.Bennett99@gmail.com

MILAN, IL 61264

NF Carla Pack & James Beech 50439 SR 145 Woodsfield, OH 43793

740.472.1861 Your Ohio Mini Hereford Source!

Judy Splitt 308.530.1287 Shaun Brott 308.530.4161

7357 N. Buffalo Rd North Platte, NE 69101

judysplitt@gmail.com

281-250-8252 oxhausminis@gmail.com Ox-Haus Livestock Magnolia, Tx 77355

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Caught You Looking!

Place a business card ad here in the Summer 2025 Edition

Community Comments

From the State of the Mini Hereford Survey, 85% (out of 119 respondents) rated their satisfaction with the Journal as 4 (satisfied) or 5 (very satisfied).

Over the last year, we’ve received appreciation of the journal as a valuable resource, with many expressing thanks and positive feedback. We are grateful to everyone involved – the Journal doesn’t exist without every reader, subscriber, advertiser, volunteer, and supporter.

“You legit saved us for selling calves; it’s unreal!”

“We sold 2 heifers from the post you shared! Thank you!”

“I want to make sure the magazine continues!”

“Love it! Thanks for the excellent work.”

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“You guys are doing a great job. Keep it up.”

“Make minis great again! Great job!!!”

“Your magazine is one of the best things for minis!”

“Thanks for sharing your magazine.”

Advertising Index ABJ Cattle.................................................................55

Hillhouse Farms......................................................29

Sandy Acres.............................................................04

Barber Mini’s ..........................................................54

Hinterland Mini Herefords....................................15

Sandy Hills Farm.....................................................28

BenzWick Acres......................................................07

Ivy Cattle Company................................................07

SEAL Livestock........................................................17

Bergin Miniature Herefords..................................37

KAP Miniature Cattle..............................................29

Skunk Ranch Herefords.........................................56

BHB Miniature Herefords......................................09

KLD Mini Herefords...............................................BC

Smejkal Show Cattle..............................................01

Black Canyon Miniature Herefords..................... 54

KMC Cattle Company.............................................54

Snider Vue Miniature Herefords.............................54

BriggsMiller Mini Herefords..................................58

Lazy 2 R Mini Herefords ........................................14

Splitt Creek Ranch-Kids Ranch..............................55

C Bar B Ranch..........................................................13

LMT Ranch...............................................................54

Star Ranch...............................................................35

Cannon Cattle Mini Herefords...............................36

McCall Mini Herefords...........................................01

Straitside Ranch.....................................................33

Central Cedar..........................................................60

McIntosh Minis.......................................................12

Streeter’s Half-Pint Herefords...............................55

Champion Genetics................................................17

Mendell Cattle........................................................08

Tay’s Minis...............................................................54

Christenson Cattle Company ...............................23

Nunnya Farm..........................................................55

Texas Miniature Hereford Association.................34

Cunningham Show Cattle......................................11

Open Top M Cattle Company................................56

TGG Livestock..........................................................55

Diamond H Farms.................................................IFC

Oklahoma Miniature Hereford Association .......59

Trans Ova.................................................................53

Fat Bottom Farm Miniature Herefords.................54

Ox-Haus Mini Herefords........................................55

TR2K Mini Herefords...............................................11

GL Ranch Mini Herefords.......................................54

Rawden Ranch........................................................55

Trapped In Time Miniature Herefords..................55

Glory Farms.................................................15, 19, 43

Red Barn Herefords................................................09

Vanishing Springs Ranch.......................................28

Hat City Cattle Co...................................................05

Riverside Ranch......................................................36

White Buffalo Ranch..............................................41

Hideaway Ranch.....................................................27

RWV Land & Livestock............................................21

Willow Creek Farm Mini Herefords.......................56

THANKS TO OUR ADVERTISERS AND SPONSORS HOSTING THE MILE HIGH MINI SOCIAL IN DENVER, COLORADO. Turn to the Inside Back Cover Page for details!

Do You Have Something to Say? Whether you want to share your experiences or have ideas for the next edition, The Mini Hereford Journal is looking for contributors!

Email: theminiherefordjournal@gmail.com Summer ‘25 Edition Arrives June 2025 Deadline for Stories/Ads: April 18, 2025 Winter ‘26 Arrives December 2025 Deadline for Stories/Ads: October 17, 2025

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You’re Invited MILE HIGH MINI SOCIAL

EAT | DRINK | CONNECT SUNDAY, JAN. 12, 2025

6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

VIB DENVER RINO HOTEL 3560 BRIGHTON STREET DENVER, COLORADO 80216 1 MILE FROM THE NWSS

SCAN THE QR CODE TO RSVP TODAY!

SPONSORED BY THE MINI HEREFORD JOURNAL VAN QUACK RANCH D MCCALL/SMEJKAL SHOW CATTLE SPLITT CREEK RANCH

CENTRAL CEDAR CHRISTENSON CATTLE COMPANY KAL ENTERPRISES CHAMPION GENETICS GLORY FARMS TAYLOR’S MINI HEREFORDS TRANS OVA GENETICS MC LIVESTOCK

KLD 50K x KLD Kit x Cady

2024 Cattlemen’s Congress Grand Champion Female 2024 NAILE Grand Champion Female

owned with Mike Oehlhof

2024 NAILE Reserve Grand Champion Female 2024 Denver Calf Champion

Call for Kashmere progeny and frozen genetics!

Darrin Barbour, mngr 816.898.8990, cell

Brian, Daydree, Kodie, Karsen & Kanyen Dopps Steve & Margaret Sanders

4255 W 335th St. Louisburg, KS 66053