NATIONAL FAIR TRACES ANIMALS FROM BIRTH TO SLAUGHTER,
CRITICAL TO FUTURE OF LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY

BRATTLEBORO, Vt., December 30, 2003—An animal identification pilot program active in several states could be a model for a mandatory national animal identification system, says John M. Meyer, CEO of Holstein Association USA, Inc. The National Farm Animal Identification and Records (FAIR) program has identified nearly one million animals in its program over a five year period.

"The recent confirmed case of BSE in the U.S. made a mandatory national animal identification program paramount to the future of the U.S. dairy and livestock industry," says Meyer. "A system such as National FAIR that can trace animal movements within 48 hours is critical to preventing the spread of harmful diseases and is vital to re-opening export markets."

The National FAIR program identifies animals at birth, and utilizes a database to track animals with electronic ear tags from farm to farm, and eventually to slaughter. Nearly 1,400 dairy and livestock farms utilize electronic eartags in 12 states.

"A national animal identification program like National FAIR is critical not only to food safety, but to source verification of our meat products,” says Steve Van Lannen, General Manager with Packerland Packing, the largest beef company east of the Mississippi River. “We installed National FAIR eartag readers in our facilities three years ago."

Animals receive a unique identification number at birth on a tag placed in the animal's ear. Similar to a social security number, that number stays with the animal for its lifetime and allows the animal to be traced from farm to farm.

Dairy producers recognize the value of National FAIR as part of a national animal identification program. Dave Natzke and his family manage Wayside Dairy near Reedsville, Wis. Wayside Dairy was one of the first dairies in the nation to participate in the National FAIR program. Nearly all 1,800 cows and heifers on the dairy have electronic National FAIR identification tags.

"I look forward to one system for animal identification, milk records and tracking disease outbreaks," Natzke says. "National FAIR is where the future is."

Several livestock markets and processing facilities across the country utilize devices to identify animals by reading electronic National FAIR eartags. This data provides key information, including animal movements to determine what animals may have come in contact with the tagged animal, and where the tagged animal was slaughtered. In the future, meat from tagged animals will be tracked through retail markets to provide the origin of specific meat products.

National FAIR is administered by Holstein Association USA, Inc. and supported by the USDA Animal Plant Health Inspection Service. The Holstein Association is a non-profit breed registry organization led by dairy producers. The largest such organization in the world, the association encompasses more than 33,000 dairy producer members in the U.S.

® Registered Holstein is a registered trademark of Holstein Association USA, Inc.
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HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION USA, INC. RESPONSE TO BSE OUTBREAK

BRATTLEBORO, Vt., December 24, 2003—Holstein Association USA, Inc. recognizes the significant impact of today's news regarding a suspected case of BSE in the United States. It's vital for all of us, including our nation's dairy and livestock producers, that consumers continue to be provided with a safe, consistent food supply. Thankfully, this isolated case does not impact our intricate and globally important food supply. However, this case does accentuate the importance of the National FAIR animal identification program to quickly and effectively track animal movements from birth, farm to farm and eventually to slaughter. Such a program strengthens our national biosecurity efforts and provides a safeguard to our nation's food supply.

® Registered Holstein is a registered trademark of Holstein Association USA, Inc.
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HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION USA, INC. APPROVES IDENTIFICATION PROGRAM

BRATTLEBORO, Vt., December 1, 2003—Holstein Association USA, Inc., the world's largest dairy breed organization, has approved the Cattle Identification Database (CID) to identify any breed of cattle including crossbred animals.

The CID program, under development by Insinc USA, Inc., a subsidiary of Holstein Association USA, Inc., will record lineage and available performance data on crossbred animals. The program offers the convenience of recording every animal in a herd, regardless of breed, and gives producers the ability to meet their identification needs from the leader in the industry.

“Holstein Association USA would like to obtain information on crossbred animals because most crosses today contain Holstein genetics,” said Tom Lawlor, Ph. D., director of research and development, Holstein Association USA, Inc. “Holsteins produce more pounds of milk, fat, and protein than any other breed. We are interested in measuring how other breeds benefit from the Holstein cross because of genetic improvements such as increased production and decreased inbreeding.”

The Holstein Association USA, Inc. board of directors approved CID at their November board meeting. Development is currently in progress, and CID will be available for producers late in 2004.

Holstein Association USA, Inc., www.holsteinusa.com, provides products and services to dairy producers to enhance genetics and improve profitability—ranging from registry processing to identification programs to consulting services. The Association, headquartered in Brattleboro, Vt., maintains the records for Registered Holsteins and represents approximately 30,000 dairy farmers across the United States. The Association is also leading the initiative for national animal identification through the National FAIR program.

® Registered Holstein is a registered trademark of Holstein Association USA, Inc.
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HOLSTEIN ORGANIZATIONS OFFER TWO SUMMER INTERNSHIPS

Brattleboro, Vt., October 15, 2003—Holstein Association USA, Inc., the world's largest dairy breed organization, and Holstein Foundation, Inc., offer two summer internships in their Brattleboro, Vermont headquarters office. Both internships offer competitive compensation while gaining valuable dairy industry experience.

The two internships available for Summer 2004 include:

The marketing communication intern promotes Holstein Association USA, Inc., and the Association's products and services to dairy producers using the website, official publications, advertising, trade shows, and press releases. The intern will also represent Holstein Association USA, Inc. at Association and industry events, including the National Holstein Convention in Omaha, Nebraska, and World Dairy Expo. The intern will assist in coordination of The Holstein Pulse, the Association's quarterly publication reaching over 14,000 Holstein producers across the country. The intern will also assist in the implementation of advertising and marketing themes, and will be involved in the entire creative process. The intern will be a valuable member of a small, energetic communication team, and will gain experience in all aspects of the communication and marketing department.

The youth programs/education intern will work with both the Holstein Foundation, Inc. and the Holstein Association's junior programs, in addition to gaining experience in other Association departments based on interests. The intern will coordinate efforts for over 10,000 junior members of Holstein Association USA, in addition to working with youth in other dairy cattle breeds through the Holstein Foundation. The intern will assist in the preparation of the National Junior Convention in Omaha, Nebraska, and will develop educational materials relating to youth competitions, including newsletters and press releases. The intern will represent the Holstein Foundation, Inc. at other breed activities including dairy bowl contests at National Breed Conventions, and at local

College students pursuing a bachelor's degree in dairy science, animal science, agricultural communications, agriculture education, or related fields are eligible to apply. Applicants should possess strong verbal communication skills and have a basic knowledge of the dairy industry.

Application deadline for both internships is December 1, 2003. To learn more about the internship programs at Holstein Association USA, Inc., and Holstein Foundation, Inc., or to apply, please contact Ben Church, manager of communications, at (800) 952-5200 x 4174, or Kelli Dunklee, youth programs specialist, (800) 952-5200 x 4124.

Holstein Association USA, Inc., www.holsteinusa.com, provides products and services to dairy producers to enhance genetics and improve profitability—ranging from registry processing to identification programs to consulting services. The Association, headquartered in Brattleboro, Vt., maintains the records for Registered Holsteins and represents approximately 30,000 dairy farmers across the United States. The Association is also leading the initiative for national animal identification through the National FAIR program.

The Holstein Foundation, www.holsteinfoundation.org, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, tax-exempt, organization, was established in 1989 to develop and sustain leaders to meet the challenges of a changing agricultural environment. The Foundation provides educational programs designed to help youth and young adults not only meet the challenges of change, but to grasp the opportunities of an agricultural environment facing transition to a global economy, technology advances, and demands for greater efficiency and productivity. The Holstein Foundation's education, leadership development, and outreach programs serve youth and young adults representing all breeds of dairy cattle.
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Holstein Association USA, Inc. encourages any Holstein breeder who has purchased animals in the past to call (800) 952-5200 to find out how they can participate in the “Great Holstein Roundup.”

Holstein Association USA, Inc., www.holsteinusa.com, provides products and services to dairy producers to enhance genetics and improve profitability—ranging from registry processing to identification programs to consulting services. The Association, headquartered in Brattleboro, Vt., maintains the records for Registered Holsteins and represents approximately 30,000 dairy farmers across the United States. The Association is also leading the initiative for national animal identification through the National FAIR program.
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WORLD DAIRY EXPO: VIRTUAL FARM TOUR
Doug Maddox-A good cow man

Like many Registered Holstein breeders, Doug Maddox started in the business with a single Registered Holstein calf. The combination of one Registered Holstein calf and one man's passion for the industry resulted in one of the best known dairies in this country and the world.

Doug Maddox says he owes a lifetime of success in the dairy industry to the Registered Holstein cow. Holstein Association USA will bring you his story at World Dairy Expo during a virtual farm tour on Friday Oct. 3, at 11:00 a.m.--immediately before the Holstein heifer show.

Located in the heart of California's central valley, Maddox has been a leader in diversifying to help meet the needs of a changing dairy industry. The Maddox dairy, one of the original commercial facilities in the west, is also the largest Holstein Association USA customer. Since 1955, there have been 28,584 females and 25,364 males registered with Holstein Association USA, for a grand total of 53,948 animals registered with the Ruann prefix.

A True Family Operation
Today, Maddox Dairy, Ruann Dairy, and Golden Genes, which are all located in the Riverdale, Calif. area, are all the direct result of Maddox's first registered calf and his entrepreneurial spirit. Today, a true family effort, all of the subsidiaries are managed by members of Doug's family, but Doug still oversees all operations on a daily basis.

Doug's sons, Steve and Pat Maddox manage Maddox Dairy and Ruann Dairy respectively, and daughter and son-in-law, Liz and Jamie Bledsoe, operate Golden Genes, and daughter, Julia Chow, oversees accounting and financials for all three operations in their entirety.

The two dairies consist of 12,000 head of Holsteins, 80 percent of which are Registered Holsteins. They currently milk 5,000 cows on the two dairies, and have a combined rolling herd average of 27,466 pounds of milk, 995 pounds of fat, and 849 pounds of protein. The dairies have five herringbone parlors, one double-10 at Ruann Dairy, and four double-13 parlors at Maddox Dairy. In addition, the ranch includes 10,000 acres of alfalfa, corn, cotton, wheat, sugar beets, wine grapes, and almonds.

The goal of the Maddox dairy is “a commercial herd with breeder quality.” A pioneer of the large dairy, Maddox understands the value of careful breeding and how good cattle can add to the bottom line, even on a large commercial facility. The largest Holstein COMPLETE customer, the Maddox operations combine many of Holstein Association USA's products into one package on their dairies; including registrations, classification, and the Red Book. They also register all of their Holsteins using Tag ID and the EASY program.

The Registered Holstein business functions are another enterprise—especially during times of fluctuating milk prices—because the sale of genetics helps the dairy pay the bills. In fact, Doug admits that the sale of genetics, mostly the sale of live bulls, made his operation profitable last year. In the years Doug has been dairying with Registered Holsteins, he has seen a return on the investments made in the Registered Holstein business. “I can truthfully say that in 40 years, I've never had a year that I lost money with registered cattle,” said Doug.

A Value not Measured in Dollars and Cents
Both Doug and Steve feel it is important to point out that Registered Holsteins and their membership in the Association provide a value that can not be measured in terms of dollars and cents. “It adds a little bit of spice to the business. It's also a way of adding some fun into the family and family involvement into the industry—the kind of intrinsic value that is hard to measure, but a way of getting the kids, the next generation, interested in the business,” said Steve Maddox.

While most commercial dairymen have to rely on selling their products as a commodity, Doug does not have to rely on a commodity market to ensure the profitablility of his dairy business. The Registered business is just that...an additional business, creating additional revenues and income.

Manage as Individually as Possible
The Maddox dairies do not manage their cattle as if they are a commodity, but manage cattle as individually as possible on an operation of such size and scale. “We have procedures to get the basics done, and then we group the cows together based on common traits, and manage the exceptions on both ends,” said Steve Maddox.

The Maddox family understands the value of careful breeding and how good cattle can add to the bottom line, even on a large commercial facility. On both the Maddox and Ruann dairies, they breed for a combination of traits to produce the most profitable animal. “We breed for the total performance cow—selecting for the bulls that will give us both type and production,” said Pat Maddox. “We believe in corrective mating and spend a lot of time thinking about it.”

The Maddox operations have been using an extensive embryo transfer program in their herd for many years. They employ a full-time veterinarian that devotes all of his time to the embryo program. They have exported genetics to 32 countries, and recover over 3,000 embryos a year to utilize in their own herd to continually improve upon already superior genetics.

The Maddox dairies classify their herd at least once a year. “One main benefit in a herd of our size is when we classify,” said Steve Maddox. “It's the one time we are focused on one cow with a basic consultant. We are breaking down the cow from head-to-toe and that really gives us a good picture of each animal.” The Maddox dairies have 102 homebred Excellents in the herd—proof their management and breeding programs are successful.
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HEILMAN TO LEAD HOLSTEIN FOUNDATION, INC. FUND-RAISING EFFORTS

BRATTLEBORO, Vt., September 8, 2003—Bob Heilman, of Richmond, Va., will lead the fund-raising efforts of the Holstein Foundation, Inc. In this capacity as co-chairman of the fund-raising committee with Donald Bennink of Bell, Fla., he will oversee fund-raising campaigns at the grassroots and corporate levels. In addition, he will assist in all fund-raising related efforts including promotion and publicity.

Heilman, a member of the Foundation's fund-raising committee since its inception in 2000, was recently appointed co-chair with Bennink by the Holstein Foundation board of trustees. As a member of the committee, he has been involved with fund-raising efforts on all levels. “The Holstein Foundation trustees and staff are looking forward to implementing Bob's energy in our fund-raising strategies,” said Ellen Merrill, associate director of development, Holstein Foundation, Inc.

Heilman is no stranger to the Holstein industry. He worked for Holstein Association USA as a regional representative and Holstein Friesian Services, where he served as marketing coordinator for a total of 15 years. Heilman left the Association to pursue interests in cattle and embryo marketing through his company American Marketing Service (AMS) Genetics, Inc. Heilman, a native of Pennsylvania, is a graduate of Penn State University. “Bob's extensive marketing background in the dairy industry will be a tremendous asset for the Holstein Foundation,” said Merrill.

The Holstein Foundation, www.holsteinfoundation.org, is a non-profit organization dedicated to developing and sustaining leaders for a changing agriculture. The Holstein Foundation's dairy youth and young adult education, outreach, and leadership development programs are open to individuals working with all breeds of dairy cattle.

For more information on the Holstein Foundation, visit www.holsteinfoundation.org. If you would like to make a contribution to the Holstein Foundation, please contact Bob Heilman, 804/474-8678, or Jodi Luttropp, 800/952-5200 x4261.
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LUTTROPP TO LEAD NATIONAL ANIMAL IDENTIFICATION EFFORTS

BRATTLEBORO, Vt., August 8, 2003—Jodi Luttropp has been named the coordinator for National Farm Animal Identification and Records (National FAIR). In this role, she will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of National FAIR, which continues to lead the initiative for national animal identification in this country, and will head the 10-member National FAIR team.

Luttropp joined the National FAIR team in April 2002, when she was named manager, dairy and identification programs, at Holstein Association USA, Inc. A graduate of University of Wisconsin-Madison, Luttropp was reared on a Wisconsin dairy. “Luttropp's experience in animal agriculture, combined with her broad understanding of the livestock industry in this country, makes her a natural fit to coordinate this effort,” said John M. Meyer, chief executive officer, Holstein Association USA, Inc. “She not only understands the technical aspects of the national animal identification program, she has the ability to relate with producers through practical, working knowledge gained on her family's dairy operation, and understands the value of National FAIR from a producer's perspective. ”

The National FAIR program is a producer-driven national identification database developed in 1999, with joint cooperation from United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Departments of Animal Plant Inspection Service (APHIS) and Veterinary Services (VS).

Recognizing that an animal identification program needs to have a national scope in order to be effective, four pilot states were identified across the nation (Wisconsin, New York, Pennsylvania, and California), and the effort has grown to include 42 states to date. National FAIR remains the only system existing today, with the abilities to electronically track livestock nation-wide in an uncontrolled environment from birth to the processing facility.

Since January 2002, involvement in the nation-wide animal identification program has grown tremendously. There are now 5,857 farms using the National FAIR program, an increase of over 500 percent. Additionally, there are now 731,392 animals allocated in the National FAIR database, which represents an increase of over 400 percent. Further, the National FAIR program is tracking animals from birth to slaughter at a total of 18 markets and processing facilities.

“Livestock producers around the country are embracing the National FAIR program as a way to ensure market access and protect the viability of their agricultural businesses,” said Luttropp. “Producers are taking the responsibility for protecting their livelihoods, indicated by the strong increase in participation in National FAIR during the past year.”

The National FAIR program starts at the farm when ear tags, containing a radio frequency device marked with a unique, individual number, are placed in the animal's ear. Information on each animal is recorded in the National FAIR database, and the animal's location is recorded each time information is read from the tag, either on the farm, in livestock markets or at processing facilities. To learn more about National FAIR, visit www.nationalfair.com or call 800/952-5200 x 4062.
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A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Recently, I have had some questions posed to me about the current status of the Holstein Foundation, and I thought this would be a good venue to give everybody an update. The only change that has taken place with the Holstein Foundation is that they no longer have a paid person on staff to do fund raising. The current economy has reduced the amount of funds contributed, and the Holstein Foundation cannot support this level of expense.

I want to make it clear that the Holstein Foundation will continue, and the Holstein Association is determined to build on the Foundation's accomplishments of the past, and will ensure that the Foundation will be a success in the future. Our goal is to strengthen and/or enhance all of our youth programs, and to continue with the excellent YDLI program. As always, the Holstein Foundation encourages, and welcomes, individuals from all breeds to participate in their activities.

The Holstein Association's commitment of funds and financial support of the Foundation will continue. Ellen Merrill and Kelli Dunklee are available to assist you with any questions you might have on youth programs or the Foundation. If you are interested in making a donation to the Foundation, Ellen would be the appropriate person to contact.

Some may wonder how the Foundation will get funds for the future without a paid person on staff doing the fund raising. It is our intention that fund raising will be done by volunteers who have expressed an interest in supporting the Holstein Foundation objectives.

We appreciate your support of the Association's youth programs and of the Foundation in the past; and with that continued support, I am confident that we can look forward to a bright future with them.

Sincerely,
Tom A. Nunes
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HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION USA, INC. HOLDS SUCCESSFUL NATIONAL CONVENTION IN NORTH CAROLINA

BRATTLEBORO, Vt., June 27, 2003—Holstein Association USA, Inc., the world's largest dairy breed organization, gathered in Winston-Salem, N.C. this week to conduct its official business, as well as to recognize award winners for their leadership in the Holstein Association and the dairy industry in its entirety.

In the CEO's address, John M. Meyer, chief executive officer, Holstein Association USA, Inc., gave a brief synopsis of a successful year for the Association and the Holstein cow. The Association had a financial improvement of more than $4.1 million in 2002, indicating a continued interest in the programs and services provided by Holstein Association USA, Inc. “Last year, revenues grew by over three percent and operating costs were reduced by 8 percent, which accounted for the much improved year. The implementation of our Management-By-Objective Business Plan was a key component in the improvement made last year,” said Meyer.

Meyer emphasized the success of the Holstein COMPLETE program, a new package of services offered by Holstein Association USA, Inc., which was embraced beyond expectations by the membership. Additionally, Meyer recognized two outstanding Holsteins that prove the profitability and longevity of the Registered Holstein cow, and her importance to the dairy industry, with a new 12th generation Excellent cow, and a lifetime milk production leader. Meyer also highlighted the stories of four Registered Holstein breeders and how their participation in Holstein Association USA, Inc., has helped contribute to the economic success on their dairies.

Furthermore, the delegates elected Tom Nunes, Santa Rosa, Calif., to serve as president of the Association's 12-member board of directors. Randolph Gross, Valleyford, Wash., completed his second term as director, and was voted to the position of vice president of the organization. Additional election results included; Glen E. Brown, Coalville, Utah, for a three year term as director region VIII, Elmo Wendorf, Jr., Ixonia, Wis., was re-elected in region V, Marvin L. Nunes, Windsor, Calif., was also re-elected in region IX. Both Wendorf and Nunes will serve three year terms. Thomas L. Thorbahn, Vickery, Ohio, was elected director-at large. Retiring directors include; Henry J. Beneke, Millerton, N.Y., C. Rayford Bennett, Madison, Ga., F. Ray Ruby, Scio, Ore., and James A. Spreng, Bucyrus, Ohio. Joann F. Hartman, Waterloo, Ill., finished 12-years of service on the board of directors, most recently serving a two-year term as president.

Bylaw amendment proposals included the enrollment of animals with non-Holstein genetics into the Holstein herdbook. This amendment was tabled for further consideration next year after a review of the board of directors and Holstein Association USA, Inc., staff. The second bylaw amendment was split by the delegates, and voted on as two proposals. The first part, which passed, resulted in the requirement that the President, Vice President and Directors must be members in good-standing with the Association. The second half, requiring candidates for president and vice president to have previously served on the board of directors, did not gain the majority support by the delegate body.

Two resolutions properly came before the organization, and were passed on to the board of directors. The first resolution recognized the importance of milk marketing to the membership during this depressed time of low milk prices. The second resolution related to the responsibility of Holstein Association USA, Inc., in regard to National Show Ethics.

The annual meeting included award presentations to Holstein enthusiasts across the country as well as the world. The Jeffrey and Gayle Benedict family was honored as the 2003 Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder. Jeffrey and Gayle own and operate Lake Effect Holsteins in Pulaski, N.Y. Lad Hastings, Tulare, Calif., was the recipient of the Robert Rumler Scholarship. He is currently obtaining a master's degree in business administration from the University of Phoenix in Fresno, Calif. Special Friend Awards of Holstein Association USA, Inc., were presented to Holstein Canada and the Holstein Association of Mexico.

Holstein Association USA, Inc., www.holsteinusa.com, provides products and services to dairy producers to enhance genetics and improve profitability–ranging from registry processing to identification programs to consulting services. The Association, headquartered in Brattleboro, Vt., maintains the records for Registered Holsteins and represents approximately 30,000 dairy farmers from across the United States. The Association is also leading the initiative for national animal identification through the National FAIR program.
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HOLSTEIN ORGANIZATIONS ANNOUNCE THE ADDITION OF TWO SUMMER INTERNS

BRATTLEBORO, Vt., June 18, 2003—Holstein Association USA, Inc., the world's largest dairy breed organization, and the Holstein Foundation, announce the addition of two summer interns in their headquarters office in Brattleboro, Vt. Both interns will be with the organizations through August.

Nickayla Myers has joined Holstein Association USA, Inc. as the marketing communications intern. She will promote Holstein Association USA, Inc. and its products and services to dairy producers, and will assist with website management, trade show coordination, designing brochures and pamphlets, obtaining customer testimonials, and composing news releases. Myers will also assist with the writing and design of The Holstein Pulse, the official information source for the members of Holstein Association USA, Inc.

Myers has completed two college internships, including a communication internship at Maryland and Virginia Milk Producers Cooperative, Inc., in Reston, Va., and a property management and communication internship at T.R. Lawing Realty of Charlotte, N.C.

Myers simultaneously attended N.C. State University and Meredith College in Raleigh, N.C. where she studied interpersonal communication and elementary education, and recently graduated Cum Laude. She will be returning to N.C. State University in the fall to begin a master's degree program. In addition, Myers is the recipient of the N.C. State Caldwell Fellows academic and leadership scholarship. She was reared on a Holstein dairy in Jonesville, N.C.

Lindsey Stewart has been named the junior program/member communication intern for the Holstein Foundation and Holstein Association USA, Inc. Stewart will assist in the coordination of the youth programs to be held during the National Junior Holstein Convention in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Following convention, she will prepare post-publicity for the junior convention events, along with developing dairy materials for youth members. Furthermore, Stewart will work in the marketing department of Holstein Association USA, Inc. during the second half of her internship.

Stewart is a sophomore at Iowa State University, majoring in public service and administration in agriculture. She actively participates in the ISU Dairy Science Club, Sigma Alpha Sorority, and takes official statistics for Iowa State Wrestling. She is a member of the Iowa Holstein Association and the District One Holstein Club, and was reared on a dairy in Oelwein, Iowa.

Holstein Association USA, Inc., www.holsteinusa.com, provides products and services to dairy producers to enhance genetics and improve profitability–ranging from registry processing to identification programs to consulting services. The Association, headquartered in Brattleboro, Vt., maintains the records for Registered Holsteins and represents approximately 30,000 dairy farmers from across the United States. The Association is also leading the initiative for national animal identification through the National FAIR program.
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COLLABORATIVE EFFORTS RESULT IN NEW DAIRY YOUTH SHOW-RING ETHICS BOOKLET
“The Rules are Black and White–And they apply to all breeds”

BRATTLEBORO, Vt., June 9, 2003—To respond to a need for dairy youth education information about show-ring ethics, the University of Wisconsin, the University of Idaho, Hoard's Dairyman, and the Holstein Foundation collaborated to produce a new booklet, “The Rules are Black and White–And they apply to all breeds.”

Whether the cows you show are black and white, red and white, or brown, the decisions that you make before your project animal enters the show-ring are black and white. That's right, black and white, right or wrong, ethical or unethical. The 32-page booklet provides a youth-oriented tool kit to help make ethical decisions. It serves as a practical guide to help dairy youth prepare for the show-ring and to assist parents, project leaders, and educators in encouraging them.

Laurie Winkelman served as the lead author for the publication. No stranger to dairy project work, Winkelman has been high individual at the National 4-H and Collegiate Dairy Cattle Judging Contests, was recognized as a National Distinguished Junior Holstein Member, and recently was named a Kildee Scholarship Winner and took top honors in National Dairy Shrine's Student Recognition Contest. Contributing authors for the project were: Dr. Jeff Goodwin, University of Idaho; Ted Halbach, University of Wisconsin; and the Hoard's Dairyman's Editors.

The authors provide the tools (instead of rules) to help make correct decisions. It includes such topics as “The Black and White Ethical Compass,” “Does your sportsmanship measure up?,” “Climb the ladder in your ethical decision making,” and “Use your tools” activity. “This booklet is appropriate for 4-H and FFA audiences who are involved with dairy projects or any animal projects. The text is about ethical decision making that anyone can learn from and enjoy reading,” says Jeff Goodwin of the University of Idaho.

Interspersed throughout the booklet are “Key Points to Remember” as well as specific examples of ethical and unethical case scenarios. “Youth who show dairy animals and their parents are confronted with the question of what is and what isn't appropriate in the preparation for and care of their show animals,” notes Ted Halbach, University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension Dairy Youth Specialist. “The ethics booklet attempts to provide a framework for positive parental involvement in youth dairy projects.”

Hoard's Dairyman, with support from special advertisers including Accelerated Genetics, Genex, Holstein Association USA, Land O'Lakes, and New Holland, printed and distributed the booklet in the June 2003 edition for its United States readers. For instructional purposes, Hoard's Dairyman printed additional copies which may be ordered free of charge (only postage will be charged) from the Holstein Foundation by calling Kelli Dunklee at 800-952-5200, ext. 4124. An accompanying video can also be obtained. Wisconsin residents can call (608) 263-3305 and those living outside the state can call (979) 845-6601

“Hoard's Dairyman was pleased to be part of this collaborative initiative to raise awareness on the important topic of show-ring ethics,” said Corey Geiger, Associate Editor. “Hoard's Dairyman knows that the dairy industry's future is tied to helping its youth develop as tomorrow's ethical leaders in the show-ring, on their farms, and in their communities.”

“This project is a wonderful example of organizations working together to achieve something important for dairy youth. By combining ideas and resources from academia, the nonprofit and for-profit sectors, a project which would otherwise have been improbable, became a reality,” said Donna Beal, Holstein Foundation Executive Director.
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KNOBLAUCH JOINS HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION USA, INC. AS REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE IN WISCONSIN

BRATTLEBORO, Vt., June 2, 2003—Holstein Association USA, Inc., the world's largest dairy breed organization, announces the addition of Sarah Knoblauch to its regional representative team in northern Wisconsin. In her position, Knoblauch will provide dairy producers in her territory with a valuable resource in the field.

“Knoblauch has a rich history in the Holstein business, and will be a tremendous asset to the dairy producers in her area,” said Steve Peterson, regional representative tri-captain, Holstein Association USA, Inc. “She understands the value of Registered Holsteins and how they can contribute to the bottom line on today's most profitable dairies.”

Knoblauch has held positions with ABS Global, University of Wisconsin- Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, and Jefferson County Farmco. Knoblauch holds a bachelor's degree in Dairy Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Knoblauch will represent Holstein Association USA, Inc. in the area formerly held by Kathleen O'Keefe, and will reside in the Black River Falls, Wisconsin area.

Holstein Association USA, Inc., www.holsteinusa.com, provides products and services to dairy producers to enhance genetics and improve profitability—ranging from registry processing to identification programs to consulting services. The Association, headquartered in Brattleboro, Vt., maintains the records for Registered Holsteins and represents approximately 30,000 dairy farmers from across the United States. The Association is also leading the initiative for national animal identification through the National FAIR program.
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BRATTLEBORO, Vt., May 12, 2003—Holstein Association USA, Inc., the world's largest dairy breed organization, is proud to announce 12 semifinalists in its annual Distinguished Junior Member (DJM) contest.

The semifinalists all have won the Distinguished Junior Member contest at their state level, and will compete at the 2003 National Holstein Convention, June 21-24, in Winston-Salem, N.C., to be named a National Finalist. The status of Distinguished Junior Member is the highest honor the Association bestows upon its junior members, which membership base numbers more than 10,000 nationally. The contest, held since 1922, has honored more than 274 outstanding dairy youth for their contributions to the Association and the dairy industry as a whole.

The semifinalists in the 2003 Distinguished Junior Member contest are: Anthony Brey, Sturgeon Bay, Wis; John Cannon, West Union, Iowa; Benjamin Dorshorst, Junction City, Wis; McKenzie Hanehan, Stillwater, N.Y.; Thomas Harwood, Shippensburg, Pa; Ann Haughian, Rice Lake, Wis; Miranda Miller, Tillamook, Ore.; Trent Olson, Lewiston, Minn; Bill Rauen, Farley, Iowa; Robert Teixeira, Turlock, Calif.; Aaron Ray Tompkins, Ennice, N.C.; Chad Wethal, Brooklyn, Wis.

“These young people represent the bright future of Holstein Association USA, Inc., and the entire dairy industry,” said Kelli Dunklee, junior programs specialist, Holstein Association USA, Inc. “The Association continues to develop our future leaders by recognizing the dedication and commitment of our junior members.”

Holstein Association USA, Inc., www.holsteinusa.com, provides products and services to dairy producers to enhance genetics and improve profitability—ranging from registry processing to identification programs to consulting services. The Association, headquartered in Brattleboro, Vt., maintains the records for Registered Holsteins and represents approximately 35,000 dairy farmers from across the United States. The Association is also leading the initiative for national animal identification through the National FAIR program.
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BRATTLEBORO, Vt. (May 2, 2003) - Representatives of National Farm Animal Identification and Registry (FAIR), a national animal identification program established by Holstein Association USA, Inc., announced today that they are prepared to meet the needs of a national animal identification system which was endorsed Monday by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge.

"We applaud Secretary Ridge's endorsement concerning the need for an established animal identification program," says John M. Meyer, CEO of Holstein Association USA, Inc. "A national identification program is no longer just a good idea, it is paramount to the security and viability of our nation's livestock industry, and National FAIR stands ready to take the lead in this effort."

Ridge's comments signify an important step toward ensuring the safety of the country's food supply. Preventing bioterrorism continues to be at the forefront of the Homeland Security effort, and a nationwide animal identification program, such as National FAIR, would provide a mechanism to identify and track movement of animals should an attack occur, according to Meyer.

A system to meet those needs is already actively working in the livestock industry. Incorporated in the efforts of the Michigan Department of Agriculture to eradicate tuberculosis, National FAIR has a proven record of tracking animals as they move from farm to farm, and eventually to slaughter. "Through this system, Michigan has been able to make advances on several fronts, including improving the state's TB situation," says Dr. Joan Arnoldi, Michigan State Veterinarian.

The National FAIR program starts at the farm when ear tags, containing a radio frequency device and marked with a unique, individual number, are placed in the animal's ear. Information on each animal is recorded in the National FAIR database, and the animal's location is recorded each time information is read from the tag, either on the farm, in livestock markets or at processing facilities. To date, information from 585,000 animals is included in the National FAIR database, and tag readers are in place at nine packing facilities and seven livestock markets throughout the United States.
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HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION USA, INC. APPOINTS NEW CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

BRATTLEBORO, Vt., March 25, 2003—Holstein Association USA, Inc., the world's largest dairy breed organization, announces the appointment of Barbara McQueen Casna as chief financial officer. Casna will also serve as treasurer of the Association's 17-member Board of Directors. The announcement was made by John M. Meyer, executive secretary and chief executive officer,

In her position as chief financial officer of Holstein Association USA, Inc., Casna will be responsible for managing all financial operations and corporate accounting aspects of the Association and its subsidiaries, and will play a principal role on the Association's management team.

“Casna brings a new perspective to the organization and has a successful track record of managing finances and people—both of which will be beneficial for our membership as we look toward the future economic success of the Association,” said John M. Meyer, chief executive officer, Holstein Association USA, Inc. “Casna is joining our organization at an exciting time—last year revenues grew and expenses were reduced, which improved our bottom line by over $1.9 million—making it the best year the Association has had in over 10 years. Casna's impact will be valuable as we continue to add to our offering of programs and services,” said Meyer.

Casna joins Holstein Association USA, Inc. with 20 years of financial management experience. Most recently, she was controller at Northeast Cooperatives, a natural food distributor located in Brattleboro, Vt., with sales of $125 million annually. Previously, she also held accounting positions with Stow Mills, Inc., United Natural Foods, Inc., and Four Seas Management Co., Inc. Casna began her career with Arthur Anderson and Company in Los Angeles, Calif. She holds a B.S. degree in accounting from The University of Denver and is a Certified Public Accountant.

Holstein Association USA, Inc., provides products and services to dairy producers to enhance genetics and improve profitability—ranging from registry processing to identification programs to consulting services. The Association, headquartered in Brattleboro, Vt., maintains the records for Registered Holsteins and represents approximately 35,000 dairy farmers from across the United States. The Association is also leading the initiative for national animal identification through the National FAIR program.
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HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION USA, INC. ANNOUNCES OHIO BARN MEETINGS

Two barn meetings have been slated in Ohio, with the theme, “How to make the most of your Classification Investment.” The meetings will be held on two dairies, one located near Wooster, Ohio, on March 20, and the other located near Botkins, Ohio, on March 21. The meetings will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., and are open to anyone who would like to attend, whether or not they are currently participating in the Holstein Association USA, Inc. Classification programs.

There will be a cow-side linear Classification demonstration, as well as a program that will explain how to utilize information found in the Red Book. Holstein Association USA, Inc. staff will explain why we standardize traits, as well as how to prioritize traits for breeding. John Connor, Director Type Evaluation and Classification, will be available to answer any questions about Holstein Association USA, Inc. software or any general questions about any of the Association's programs and services. Connor will also be available to show attendees one-on-one how to use the software to enhance the genetics on their dairies.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Provided by Michigan Department of Agriculture)

STATE OF MICHIGAN USES NATIONAL FAIR TO TACKLE BOVINE TUBERCULOSIS

LANSING, Mich., January 20, 2003—In the first year since the state embarked on an electronic livestock identification pilot program in Northeast Michigan, more than 90 percent of area farmers have voluntarily incorporated the new technology and the National FAIR system.

It has long been common for livestock to have individual animal identification though traditionally this has been a plastic or metal tag or tattoo according to Dan Wyant, director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA). Electronic ID simply incorporates the latest technology; a tag imbedded with a radio frequency device and marked with a unique, individual number that will not be duplicated on any other animal worldwide. This tag is then linked to the National FAIR database that includes information specific to that animal, including date of birth, sex, and type/species. This electronic tag dramatically speeds up the location and tracing of livestock – from farm to market – and ensures the most accurate and up-to-date information.

"This type of technology and capability is increasingly important in a global economy and represents the future of the animal agriculture industry," Wyant added. "Electronic ID will play a critical role in protecting the health of Michigan livestock, ensuring the safety of our food supply, maintaining consumer confidence in Michigan food and agricultural products, managing animal diseases and assisting farmers with data to enhance genetic improvement of their herds. We are proud to be at the forefront of this effort," Wyant said.

The electronic livestock ID pilot project was launched in Michigan in November of 2001 as part of the state's bovine Tuberculosis (TB) eradication plan. This project makes tags available to producers at no charge in the Northeast Lower Peninsula or those with accredited herds. To date, 432 herds, representing 17,000 individual animals, have been TB tested and tagged with electronic ID. Hand-held computers read the electronic tags and accompanying information, and allow additional data to be entered electronically, including disease testing information. Additionally, electronic tag readers have been installed in three of Michigan's major livestock markets and in five Midwest packing plants where Michigan producers send their cattle.

According to Dr. Joan Arnoldi, State Veterinarian and Director of MDA's Animal Industry Division, Michigan was picked as a pilot state for the electronic ID program by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services due to its ongoing bovine TB eradication efforts. The federal agency granted the state $1.3 million to develop and implement the identification program. Currently, only a handful of other states, Canada, and a few European countries are utilizing electronic ID on a regular basis.

"Through this system, Michigan has been able to make advances on several fronts, including improving the state's TB situation," Arnoldi said. "Besides providing further assurance to USDA, other states and our trading partners that Michigan cattle have been properly tested and moved, electronic ID has also helped ease the burden on and speed up response time for the state's livestock producers and has allowed trace backs and forwards to be done in hours rather than days or weeks, which is critical in any animal disease situation."

The programs records are held in the secure, web-accessible National Farm Identification Records Program maintained by the Holstein Association USA, Inc. and the USDA's Generic Database system to ensure accurate individual animal identification and tracking and coordination of TB test results and herd status.

The electronic ID system and National FAIR database also play a key role in the issuance of movement permits that are currently required in Northeast Michigan. Producers are now able to enter an animal's electronic identification number into the state's web-based system and quickly verify whether all testing requirements have been met. If so, the permit is granted and they can then choose to print the permit, or receive it by fax or mail.

Immediate plans for electronic ID in Michigan include tagging another 18,000 animals, and installing readers at one more market in the state and three other packing plants in the Midwest.

For more information or to view the electronic ID system firsthand, contact Kevin Kirk, MDA's Electronic Identification Coordinator, at 517/241-4339 or via e-mail at [email protected], or Sara Linsmeier-Wurfel, MDA Public Information Officer, at 517/241-4282 or [email protected].

For more information about National FAIR, please call 800.952.5200 or visit www.nationalfair.com
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Rumler Scholarship now available from Holstein Association USA, Inc.

Brattleboro, Vt., January 9, 2003-Dairy graduates pursuing a master's degree in business administration are encouraged to apply for the Holstein Association USA, Inc. Robert H. Rumler Scholarship.

This $3,000 scholarship is awarded annually to a recipient who has graduated from an accredited agricultural college or university with a bachelor's degree in dairy science or its equivalent. The scholarship may be given to a student at the beginning of an MBA program or a student entering their second year of an MBA program.

The scholarship program was started in 1984 by the Holstein Association USA, Inc. to honor Robert H. Rumler, who led the Association as executive secretary for 25 years, while serving a total of 36 years. Upon his retirement, Rumler was named chairman emeritus of the Association.

Eligibility requirements include:

Holstein Association USA, Inc., www.holsteinusa.com, provides products and services to dairy producers to enhance genetics and improve profitability–ranging from registry processing to identification programs to consulting services.

The Association, headquartered in Brattleboro, Vt., maintains the records for Registered HolsteinsSM and represents members throughout the United States. The Association is also leading the initiative for national animal identification through the National FAIR program.