Brattleboro, Vt., December 16, 2019 — Connor Erbsen of Lanark, Ill., is the 2019 recipient of the Holstein Association USA's National Judi Collinsworth Outstanding Junior Exhibitor Award. The Collinsworth Award is presented annually in honor of the Association's former Executive Director of Member and Industry Services, Judi Collinsworth.

The award recognizes youths' work and involvement with Holstein cattle and dairy activities. Recipients are selected based on sportsmanship, herdsmanship, participation in Holstein and other agricultural activities, as well as an essay describing what they have learned while exhibiting Registered Holstein® cattle. The winners at each of the National Junior Holstein Shows receive a $250 cash prize and the overall winner receives an additional $500 scholarship.

Erbsen, 19, is a sophomore at Iowa State University studying agronomy alongside ag systems technology and animal science. He is active in the dairy science club, agronomy club, ag systems technology club and in the beginning farmers network. Representing Iowa State, Connor serves as the Midwest ADSA competitions committee member.

"Throughout my years as a Junior Holstein exhibitor, competition and sportsmanship have helped me grow as a person, and as a cattle exhibitor. I strive to set a good example of sportsmanship for the younger members exhibiting alongside me," Erbsen said. "To me, the most important part of standing at the top is being humble and thankful for your success while standing at the bottom has taught me to take criticism in a constructive manner to improve my exhibition skills or the care of my animal."

Erbsen has participated widely in his state and county Holstein organizations. As a member of the Illinois Junior Holstein Association, he was a 2015 Young Distinguished Junior Member finalist and has participated in Dairy Bowl on local, state and national levels, as well as Dairy Jeopardy and Dairy Judging. He was the captain of the winning 2015 National Junior Dairy Bowl team. Connor plans to work with and mentor young people both in and out of the showring to strengthen the dairy industry and the Holstein breed.

One Judi Collinsworth Award recipient is selected at each of the four National Junior Holstein Shows. Erbsen won the award at International National Junior Holstein Show. Other winners from 2019 National Junior Holstein Shows are Caitlin Cox, Ind., Grand National Junior Holstein Show; Zachary Paul, Ill., Southern Spring National Junior Holstein Show; and Taylor Wolf, Pa., Premier National Junior Holstein Show.

For more information on Holstein youth programs, contact Kelli Dunklee at 800.952.5200, ext. 4124 or email.

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Brattleboro, Vt., December 13, 2019 — Effective January 1, 2020, Holstein Association USA, Inc. will increase ear tag, ear tag accessories and tissue sampling unit (TSU) prices by 4 percent. January 1, 2020 will mark the first price increase in 25 years across the entire tag offering.

Since 1994, Holstein Association USA, Inc. has offered Allflex tamperproof tags as an identification option for registration. Since then, Holstein Association USA has added a variety of tag options for members and customers. Holstein Association USA will continue to provide quality and convenient products that meet customers’ needs as part of a greater identification system, supported with exceptional customer service.

Orders submitted by December 31, 2019 will be at current tag prices. For the updated price list, visit the Products and Services Pricing page.

Questions regarding the updated ear tag prices can be directed to Darin Johnson, Dairy ID Programs Manager, at 800.952.5200, ext. 4048 or by email.

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Brattleboro, Vt., December 12, 2019 — Holstein Association USA has released its annual Pedigree Analysis of 2019 National Holstein Show winners. These lists provide a picture of the genetics behind the cattle receiving showring accolades at the highest levels of competition.

The Pedigree Analysis is updated each fall, following the last National Holstein Show of the year. Included are lists of Leading Sires, Leading Maternal Grandsires, and Leading Sire Stacks of National Show Winners. Each category features separate lists for heifers and cows, along with an overall list. In addition, viewers will find other interesting information, such as the average classification score for each class and historical data from previous years.

Holstein females included in the analysis were those that placed in the top three in their respective age class at a National Holstein Show in 2019, which included a total of 203 different heifers and 264 different cows, sired by 121 different bulls.

Val-Bisson Doorman-ET claimed the title of Overall Leading Sire for the 2019 National Holstein Show winners, siring 78 daughters who placed in the top three of their classes. He was also number one on the heifer and cow list, with a total of 47 heifers and 31 cows.

Dymenthom Mr App Avalanche-TW was the second-ranking sire overall and number two on the heifer list, with a total of 32 heifers placing in the top three. Thirty-one bulls each sired at least four daughters placing in the top three in their class at a 2019 National Holstein Show.

For the third year, Braedale Goldwyn topped the Leading Maternal Grandsires of heifers, cows and the overall list, and was the maternal grandsire of 35 heifers and 39 cows. Maple-Downs-I G Atwood-ET was the second-ranking maternal grandsire overall, having 40 granddaughters placing in the top three of their respective classes at 2019 National Holstein Shows.

For the second year, the combination of Val-Bisson Doorman-ET x Braedale Goldwyn topped the Overall Leading Sire Stack, the list of Leading Sire Stacks for Heifers and Cows. Nineteen animals placing in the top three at 2019 National Holstein Shows came from that mating. For the third year running, Val-Bisson Doorman-ET x Maple-Downs-I G W Atwood-ET was the second Leading Sire Stack overall.

To view the complete Pedigree Analysis, check under the Popular Lists section on the Holstein Association USA homepage, or go directly to www.holsteinusa.com/shows/pedanalysis_show_winners.html.

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Brattleboro, Vt., December 10, 2019 — Holstein Association USA is excited to announce that, effective December 9, 2019, recovery and implant dates as well as recipient ID will no longer be required to register calves resulting from embryo transfer (ET) or in-vitro fertilization (IVF).

Updates have been made to the EASY ID software (December 2019 version) to no longer require these fields and customers are urged to download this latest version so that applications can be processed as efficiently as possible. The latest EASY software is always available for free download at: www.holsteinusa.com/software/software.html.

In conjunction with these changes, Holstein Association USA is also making some updates to the ET parentage spot-checking programs. Recovery dates will no longer be available to define recovery groups, so ET & IVF animals will be selected randomly for parentage spot-checking programs.

For assistance with updating EASY ID to the latest version, customers can call 800.952.5200, ext. 4205. Other questions regarding the updated ET registration requirements can be directed to Bridget Cummings, Identification Services Manager, at 800.952.5200, ext. 4204 or by email.

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Brattleboro, Vt., November 25, 2019 — With much excitement, Holstein Association USA presents the inaugural lineup of All-National Showcase honorees. Exhibitors from all over North America paraded their finest cattle in the showring from March through November to earn points based on their show placings. The All-National Showcase Program recognizes U.S. Registered Holstein® cows and their owners for exceptional performance at National Holstein Shows.

"We are excited to recognize these outstanding animals and their owners in the first year of the All-National recognition program," says Jodi Hoynoski, Executive Director, Holstein Identification & Member Services. "We set out to add value to Registered Holsteins in a new, free, and easy way, and hope the breeders and owners of all the animals are particularly proud!"

The top 10 animals in each class and full details on the All-National Showcase Program rules and point system can be found at http://www.holsteinusa.com/allnational.

Congratulations to the following All-National Holsteins!

All-National Breeders (Tie)
Oakfield Corners Dairy, Oakfield, N.Y. & Reyncrest Farms Inc., Corfu, N.Y.

All-National Exhibitor
Oakfield Corners Dairy, Oakfield, N.Y.

Summer Heifer Calf
All-National: TOPPGLEN DEF WILDROSE-RED, Brennan, Marissa & Logan Topp, Ohio

Reserve All-National: EXPRESS-SMD UNDENIED VOODOO, Express Holsteins & Stan-Mar-Dale Holsteins, Ohio

Spring Heifer Calf
All-National: MS ROLLNVIEW SOLO DAY DREAM, Hayden E. Ayers, N.Y.

Reserve All-National: DUCKETT DOORMAN SIERRA-TW, Austin Nauman, Wis.

Winter Heifer Calf
All-National: BLEXYS CRUSH BUDWEISER-ET, Budjon, Vail, Abbott, Van Exel & Woodmansee, Wis.

Reserve All-National: CASHELLS DEFIANT LOUIS V, Diamond Hill Farms, Brian Enright & Jaquemet Holsteins, Ontario

Fall Heifer Calf
All-National: CRYSTAL-STAR AVLNCH CALI-ET, M. Hawbaker, MB Luckylady Farm & B. Almeida, Md.

Reserve All-National: BUDJON-VAIL AVA ELLUSIVE-ET, Westcoast Holsteins, British Columbia

Summer Yearling Heifer
All-National: WINDCROFT DR IRREPLACEABLE-ET, Westcoast Holsteins, British Columbia

Reserve All-National: BANOWETZ PEACH CRUSH, Shawn & Levi Banowetz, Iowa

Spring Yearling Heifer
All-National: REYNCREST SOLOMN LUCILLE-ET, Andrew Reynolds, N.Y.

Reserve All-National: HARVUE DOORMAN FIJI-ET, Jacob Bingham, Texas

Winter Yearling Heifer
All-National: PETITCLERC IMPRESSION AURALIE, Eaton Holsteins & Glamourview - Iager & Walton, N.Y.

Reserve All-National: MILKSOURCE ZEST-ET, Reyncrest Farms Inc., N.Y.

Fall Yearling Heifer
All-National: MASES-MANOR DBACK LUXURY, Makenna F. Mase, Pa.

Reserve All-National: BLEXYS DOORMAN BRANDY-ET, C. & J. Hill, T. & S. Abbott & C. Woodmansee III, Md.

Milking Yearling
All-National: BUDJON-VAIL SOLMN APACHE-ET, Peter & Lyn Vail & Budjon Farms, Wis.

Reserve All-National: OPPORTUNITY GOLD PHOENIX-ET, Triple-T Holsteins & Jamie D. Black, Ohio

Summer Junior Two-Year-Old Cow
All-National: HEART&SOUL DEMPSEY RAELYNN, Milk Source LLC, Wis.

Reserve All-National: OAKFIELD BYWAY MS TABOO-ET, Hailee Liddle, N.Y.

Junior Two-Year-Old Cow
All-National: PETITCLERC DOORMAN SAPPHIRE-ET, Ferme Jacobs, Inc. & T&L Cattle Ltd, Quebec

Reserve All-National: SWEET-PEAS GCHIP ALEX-ET, Denise Pease, Pa.

Senior Two-Year-Old Cow
All-National: MILKSOURCE GOLDWYN CAPRI-ET, Milk Source LLC & Robert Sabo, Wis.

Reserve All-National: GOLDEN-OAKS SID CHROME-ET, M., M. & M. Price & C. Cunningham, Ill.

Junior Three-Year-Old Cow
All-National: FRAELAND DOORMAN BONNIE, Michael & Julie Duckett, Wis.

Reserve All-National: QUIETCOVE FOXYS LOLLIPOP-ET, Quietcove Holsteins, Ohio

Senior Three-Year-Old Cow
All-National: SCO-LO-AF SID SANGRIA-ET, James Ostrom & John M. Vosters, Wis.

Reserve All-National: MS SMITH-OAK PW D MILLIE-ET, Oakfield Corners Dairy Show Cattle, N.Y.

Four-Year-Old Cow
All-National: OAKFIELD WB TIFFANY-ET, Jonathan Lamb, N.Y.

Reserve All-National: GLEANN BRADY PRIVATEER, M. & S. Mitchell, B. Engleking, J. Eby & Rosay Farm, Tenn.

Five-Year-Old Cow
All-National: SHADOW-W REGINALD MARIAN, Reese McCoy & Lilly Ann Elsass, Ohio

Reserve All-National: K-LAND KILO BLACK DIAMOND, Majestic View, G. Lintvedt, R. Shore & P. Probert, Wis.

Six-Year-Old & Older Cow
All-National: CO-VALE DEMPSY DINA 4270-ET, Milk Source LLC & Ransom Rail Farms Inc, Wis.

Reserve All-National: WEBB VIEW LADY BELL WILDTHING, F., C., A., L., J., L. & H. Borba, L. & D. Fraley & C., C., C. Cannon, Calif.

150,000 Lb. Lifetime Milk Production Cow
All-National: HAZELS GLDWN HATTY-ET, Clark W. Woodmansee III, Conn.

Reserve All-National: BUTZ-BUTLER GOLD BARBARA-ET, Gold Barbara LLC, Md.

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Brattleboro, Vt., November 4, 2019 — In April 2019, the American Simmental Association (ASA) and Holstein Association USA (HAUSA) announced the formation of the HOLSimTM branded beef program that identifies elite SimAngusTM bulls with specific production attributes as mating solutions for dairy producers who breed some of their herd to beef.

Today the ASA and HAUSA are happy to present to you the new Top Ranking HOLSimTM Qualified November 1, 2019 Bull List. Attached is the list of 253 bulls that rank highest on the new HOLSimTM List.

We are also happy to provide you with the expanded list of HOLSim sires whose offspring qualify for the HOLSimTM American Beef Program. The bulls on this list include all of the bulls that were on the original HOLSimTM Index List published in April and the November HOLSim bulls.

The program’s objective is: to provide additional revenue to dairy producers through the production of value-added terminal calves; to offer new marketing avenues for progressive beef seedstock operations; and to offer a consistent supply of high-quality calves better situated to capture market premiums; and to deliver mating solutions for dairy farmers who breed some of their herd to beef.

Qualifying for the sire list is not easy, and bulls that do so represent an elite group of beef genetics. All bulls in the program will be required to include the HOLSim logo in all marketing and promotional material.

“The bulls must be homozygous black, homozygous polled, have a minimum birth weight accuracy of .4, and meet a minimum threshold in the HOLSim Index,” according to Chip Kemp, ASA Director of Commercial and Industry Operations.

The HOLSim Index uses the IGS Feeder Profit CalculatorTM (FPC), the industry leader in feeder cattle evaluation, as the foundation for this effort.

The results from the FPC are then adjusted for the unique economic situations relevant to Holstein cattle, namely, the need for added calving ease, muscle conformation, grading ability and sensitivity to carcass length.

The program is underpinned by HAUSA’s industry-leading animal identification program, something that will add increasing value in the marketplace as consumers require more information about where their food comes from. Because dairy operations calve year-round, a continuous and steady supply of high-quality beef will be available to distributors, retailers and restaurateurs that have struggled historically with seasonal fluctuations of supplies.

To qualify for the program, all animals must have a Holstein dam identified through the Holstein Association USA and be sired by SimAngus bulls from the Qualified Bull Lists.

The HOLSim program is the first of its kind and offers dairy farmers a unique opportunity to build new profit centers.

“To my knowledge, this is the first time that a beef and a dairy breed association have collaborated to have a specific program to benefit both organizations and their respective members and industries,” John M. Meyer, Holstein Association USA Chief Executive Officer says.

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Brattleboro, Vt., September 12, 2019 — Dairy farms represent the best of America. In quiet places across the country, hard work, caring for cows and family come first.

Holstein Association USA celebrates farm families during the next episode of Holstein America, 9 p.m. CST, Thursday, Sept. 26 on RFD-TV. Mark the calendar or set the DVR to record this anticipated television broadcast.

It is an inspiring story about those with a passion for raising quality cattle and supplying healthy, nutritious products for consumers around the world. And it’s all made possible thanks to the Registered Holstein® cow.

“The Holstein cow is a natural converter. She takes energy from the sun, rain and forages, and produces milk. It’s a wonderful, sustainable and efficient part of life that we have,” says John Meyer, CEO of Holstein Association USA. “Our mission with Holstein America is to share that story with fellow farmers and consumers alike.”

In Holstein America, learn about modern-day dairy production and hear from those with a passion for Registered Holsteins. California’s productive Central Valley, small-town Texas, America’s Dairyland and the Indianapolis 500 are a few of the featured stops within the next episode.

Also featured is Dr. Bruce German, a professor at University of California-Davis, who shares an insightful look at milk’s role in the human diet — and how it has sustained life for thousands of years.

The hour-long program, sponsored by Merck Animal Health, also explores the programs and services offered by Holstein Association USA. Members explain how initiatives like Holstein Marketplace Sires and the HOLSim beef program help bring value to the farm.

Join Holstein Association USA for the fourth episode of Holstein America at 9 p.m. CST, Thursday, Sept. 26 on RFD-TV.

RFD-TV is a leading independent cable channel available on DISH Network, DIRECTV®, AT&T U-Verse, Charter Spectrum, Cox, Comcast, Mediacom, Suddenlink and many other rural cable systems. Reference local listings for more information.

After the show, visit www.holsteinusa.com to find a complete collection of the Holstein America series online. Also stay tuned to Holstein Association USA on Facebook and Instagram for more information.

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Brattleboro, Vt., September 6, 2019 — The August 2019 genetic evaluations brought about a new and exciting release for Holstein Marketplace Sires and continued strong rankings for all sires.

CHARISMA	712HO01005 CHARISMA, a new release, hails from Our-Favorite Holsteins, Fall Creek, Wis. Our-Favorite Charisma-ET is a Woodcrest King Doc from a VG-88 Cookiecutter Hang-Time-ET with a first lactation 365-day record of 27,580 pounds of milk, with 5.0%F (1,389F) and 3.7%P (1,019P), calving in at 1-11. His granddam, Our-Favorite Unlimited EX-94 2E completed a third lactation 365-day record of 33,640 pounds of milk, with 4.3%F (1,437 F) and 3.5%P (1,182 P). Unlimited is sired by Maple-Downs-I G W Atwood-ET, and is backed by eight generations of Very Good and Excellent dams with lifetime production records as high as 356,900 pounds of milk. CHARISMA has a +2517 GTPI® with stand-out conformation (+4.02 PTAT), high components and solid fertility. Not only is he Beta Casein A2/A2 and Kappa Casein BB, his extraordinary combination of type, production and fertility ranks him amongst the best in the breed.
DEWGOOD	712HO01001 DEWGOOD, owned by Dean & Wanda Good, Oconto, Wis., is from 11 generations of Very Good and Excellent dams and is a unique pedigree being an OCD Rogers Franchise-ET out of a VG-85 Co-Op Day Tuffenuff-ET. DEWGOOD brings a well-rounded package as a calving ease specialist (6.0% SCE), siring long-lived, fertile cattle (+5.6 PL, +2.1 LIV and +1.0 FI) with good udders (+2.82 UDC) and desirable production (+1092 Milk). DEWGOOD’s GTPI is +2529, and he is also Beta Casein A2/A2 and Kappa Casein BB.
LOTTO	712HO01002 LOTTO, owned by Golden Oaks Farm, Wauconda, Ill., is from 11 generations of Very Good and Excellent dams going back to Comestar Laurie Sheik-ET. Sired by Silverridge V Imax-ET out of a VG-87 Delaberge Pepper-ET, LOTTO’s +2637 GTPI offers a terrific combination of components. At over 1,000 pounds of milk, +0.16% fat and +0.06% protein with +5.3 PL, +0.6 DPR, 6.9% SCE combined with a +2.26 UDC and +1.84 FLC, LOTTO offers the tremendous balance cattle breeders are looking for today.
MAURICE	712HO01003 MAURICE *RC *PC, owned by Hurtgenlea Holsteins Ltd, Elkhorn, Wis., is from seven generations of Very Good and Excellent dams, sired by Pine-Tree Splendid-P-ET out of a VG-86 Woodcrest Mogul Yoder-ET. Coming in at +2554 GTPI, MAURICE is the fourth highest amongst red carrier, polled bulls. MAURICE is a well-rounded sire with high components (0.23%F and 0.05%P), desirable health traits (+5.4 PL and +4.4 LIV) and solid udders (+1.98 UDC), piquing the interest of many breeders.
RODDY	712HO01004 RODDY *RC, owned by Trent Hendrickson & John Schneller, Blanchardville, Wis., is sired by S-S-I Modesty Magictouch-ET, out of an 87-point (Excellent udder) Seagull-Bay Silver-ET daughter backed by 12 generations of Excellents going back to the Queen of the Breed, C Glenridge Citation Roxy EX-97. Trent-Way-JS RODDY-ET has a GTPI of +2568 and ranks 26th for genomic red carrier sires. RODDY offers a balanced genetic profile combining a strong conformation profile (+2.03 PTAT and +2.56 UDC) with easy calving (7.0% SCE) and solid heath traits (2.80 SCS, +5.6 PL, +2.3 LIV and +0.9 FI) with favorable components (+64 F and +46 P). RODDY is Kappa Casein BB and Beta Casein A1/A2.

Learn more about these exciting bulls and the cow families behind them at www.holsteinusa.com/marketplacesires. Place an order directly from the website or call Holstein Association USA Customer Service at 800.952.5200. Those wanting to learn more about the Holstein Marketplace Sires program can contact Carl Kent at 800.952.5200, ext. 4121, or email Carl.

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Brattleboro, Vt., August 23, 2019 — USDA announced their implementation timeline for mandatory electronic animal identification for cattle earlier this year. By January 1, 2023 all dairy cattle will require an official 840 RFID ear tag for interstate movement.

The use of radio frequency identification (RFID) ear tags speeds up data collection and improves animal disease traceability. This improved level of traceability is crucial to protect the long-term health, marketability and economic viability of the U.S. livestock industry.

To initiate the move away from metal tags, and toward RFID ear tags, USDA has announced an implementation timeline:

• December 31, 2019 — USDA will discontinue providing free metal tags. However, approved vendors will be permitted to produce official metal tags for one additional year. Approved vendor tags will be available for purchase on a State-by-State basis as authorized by each State animal health official through December 31, 2020.
• January 1, 2021 — USDA will no longer approve vendor production of metal ear tags with the official USDA shield. Accredited veterinarians and/or producers can no longer apply metal ear tags for official identification and must start using official RFID ear tags.
• January 1, 2023 — RFID ear tags will be required for dairy cattle moving interstate. Animals previously tagged with metal ear tags will have to be retagged with RFID ear tags.

"Holstein Association USA encourages dairymen to consider adding or switching to RFID ear tags with their next inventory tag order," says Darin Johnson, Holstein Association USA Dairy Identification Manager. "USDA has been providing free metal ear tags, so their implementation timeline has focused on the move away from them. For our members that have been using visual 840 tags, those animals also will have to be retagged after January 1, 2023 to comply with USDA's RFID requirement."

In order to purchase official 840 RFID ear tags, a producer must first obtain a premises identification number (PIN) from their state's department of agriculture. Once a premises identification number is acquired, visit www.holsteintags.com to order tags or contact a Holstein Association USA customer service representative by calling, 800.952.5200.

Those wanting to learn more can visit www.holsteinusa.com, or contact Darin Johnson at 800.952.5200, ext. 4048, or by email.

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Brattleboro, Vt., August 19, 2019 — Holstein Association USA launches Red Book PlusTM Online, a web-based bull search and information program. Users can quickly and easily find comprehensive information on Holstein bulls, build and save tailored lists based on criteria that is important to them, and create customized selection indexes to rank bulls.

"One of the most important decisions dairy producers can make in terms of improving their herd genetics is selecting the right bulls to use," said Lindsey Worden, Holstein Association USA Executive Director of Holstein Genetic Services. "Red Book Plus Online provides modern, flexible and customizable searching and reporting tools to help Holstein breeders find those right bulls to fit their goals. Our program is designed to not just allow users to simply find information, but also help them interpret and understand it. Breeders have been asking for an update to our Red Book Plus software program for some time now, and we are thrilled to make this available today."

Red Book Plus Online is backed by the power of the Holstein Association USA herdbook - the gold standard in stewarding pedigree, genetic and performance information for Holstein cattle. Users will find complete information on all genetic traits, pedigree information, ancestor and progeny performance information, and more, for over 50,000 bulls, including the thousands of bulls being marketed by artificial insemination companies today.

Video user guide tutorials are available for every aspect of the program, helping new users get acquainted with all the tools and features at their fingertips. Because it is web-based, Red Book Plus Online can be accessed from any computer, tablet or smartphone with an internet connection.

Anyone with a current subscription to the desktop software version of Red Book Plus/MultiMateTM may create a log-in for no additional fees. Other new users may subscribe to Red Book Plus Online for $99 per year, billed as three payments of $33 at each official genetic evaluation. Access to Red Book Plus Online is an option for those enrolled in Holstein COMPLETE®.

For more information, visit www.holsteinusa.com, or contact your Holstein Association USA Regional Sales Representative. Those with an active subscription can visit www.breedholsteins.com to start using the program today! With questions, contact software help or call 800.952.5200, ext. 4003.

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Brattleboro, Vt., August 12, 2019 — Every great scientific discovery begins with an idea. Innovative research is the backbone of progress in any industry — and that includes the dairy community.

Holstein Association USA is currently accepting research proposals for the next round of funding. The applications must include expected outcomes to benefit the profitability of Holstein cattle. Submit applications for research grant funds by August 15, 2019.

Supporting research is a top priority for Holstein Association USA, the world’s largest dairy breed association. Roger Shanks, the organization's genetics consultant, explains.

"I'm excited about the research program that Holstein Association USA has ongoing," Shanks says. "We are getting into our third year, our third request for proposals this year. The overall objective of the whole program is really to try to increase the amount of research that's done on Holstein cows, so we can then help Holstein members be able to implement and take advantage of those research results as they come along."

Holstein Association USA is currently funding two projects. One at North Carolina State University that's looking at how genomic information can be used to manage inbreeding; and a second project at the University of California-Davis exploring the opportunity to breed Holstein cows for heat tolerance using the slick hair gene. Both hold great potential for future progress with U.S. Registered Holsteins.

More details about the Research Grant Program guidelines and process can be found on the Holstein Association USA website, www.holsteinusa.com/programs_services/research_grant.html.

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Holstein Association USA's delegate election process is currently underway. Each year, members have the opportunity to nominate members from their state to serve as voting delegates at the following year's Holstein Association USA Annual Meeting, held in conjunction with the National Holstein Convention. 

The 2020 Annual Meeting will be held in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, June 25 - 26.

Important Deadlines

Here are the important deadlines to take into account:

August 1 - Nominating petitions mailed to members
September 27 - Nominating petitions must be received by Holstein Association USA
October 11 - Deadline for nominees to withdraw names from the ballot
November 1 - Ballots mailed to members
January 2, 2020 - Ballots must be received by Holstein Association USA
February 1, 2020 - 2020 delegate election finalized

Members Ineligible to Serve in 2020

Members become ineligible to serve as a delegate after serving as a delegate at three consecutive Annual Meetings. The following individuals, listed by state, are ineligible to be nominated to serve as a delegate in 2020:

Sheri L. Regan Danhof, Iowa
Matthew E. Iager DVM, Maryland
Timothy Baker, Michigan
Michael T. Sheehan, Minnesota
Janice Faye Perry, Missouri
Kelly Anne Reynolds, New York
Vanessa Worden, New York
Robert G. Hardin III, North Carolina
Darrell Gene Wright, North Carolina
Paul R. Haskins, Ohio
Daniel A. Brandt, Pennsylvania
Barry M. England, Pennsylvania
Kenneth M. Umble, Pennsylvania
Dale L. Zimmerman, Pennsylvania
Martha E. Seifert, Vermont
Randall Inman, Virginia
Brian Todd Behnke, Wisconsin
Steven G. Holte, Wisconsin
Daniel Dwight Siemers, Wisconsin

With questions about the Holstein Association USA delegate process, contact Jodi Hoynoski at 800.952.5200, ext. 4261 or by email.

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Brattleboro, Vt., July 15, 2019 — Holstein Association USA is excited to announce new improvements and added features to its online transfer system. A seller can now enter multiple buyers when transferring a group of animals in a single online submission, which will be an especially welcome feature for sale managers. If an account number is provided for the buyer, it does a look up so buyer contact information is not required, and allows an animal name change request. For a video tutorial of the online transfer system, visit http://bit.ly/2SnIO8r.

“When we started work on our online transfer system, we wanted to give our customers a better experience submitting transfers online. The latest improvements will give our customers the ability to do multiple transfers in one seamless transaction and make the process easier," says Bridget Cummings, Identification Services Manager.

Online transfers continue to increase in popularity with a free updated registration certificate provided to the new owner for each transfer submitted online.

A Holstein Association USA website log in must be established to use the online transfer application system. If you would like assistance setting up a log in, please contact customer service at 800.952.5200.

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Brattleboro, Vt., July 12, 2019 — Holstein Association USA recognized Junior members in Appleton, Wis. for their participation in a variety of activities during the 2019 National Holstein Convention. Over 325 Holstein Junior members competed in contests and participated in various other activities. All contests are designed to help youth develop skills that will benefit them in future endeavors and showcases their talents on a national stage.

Prepared Public Speaking
Broken into three age divisions, 46 youth participated in the prepared public speaking competition. Following are the results from each division.

Junior Division (ages 9-13 as of January 1)
1st place: Abby Meyer, Wisconsin
2nd place: Sarah Craun, Virginia
3rd place: Justin Irwin, Illinois

Intermediate Division (ages 14-17 as of January 1)
1st place: Lauren Siemers, Wisconsin
2nd place: Matthew Gunst, Wisconsin
3rd place: Bradley Richman, New Jersey

Senior Division (ages 18-21 as of January 1)
1st place: Ariel Staffin, New Jersey
2nd place: Miriam Cook, Michigan
3rd place: Brock Irwin, Illinois

Folding Display Contest
Forty-six entries were submitted in this year's Folding Display competition. Participants create a free-standing display educating people about a dairy industry-related topic of their choice. Youth are divided into three age divisions, and each division has two categories ? Scientific and Creative. Junior Holstein members are not required to attend the National Convention to enter a display and compete in this contest. Following are the results for each category.

Creative Division
Junior Division (ages 9-13 as of January 1)
1st place: Konrad Reidman, California
2nd place: Makenna Mase, Pennsylvania
3rd place: Joseph Coltrane, North Carolina

Intermediate Division (ages 14-17 as of January 1)
1st place: Lauryn Young, Washington
2nd place: Reagan Rhodes, Virginia
3rd place: Madison Sifford, Virginia

Senior Division (ages 18-21 as of January 1)
1st place: Nelson Brooks, North Carolina
2nd place: Montana Heinricher, Washington
3rd place: Nicole Guise, Pennsylvania

Scientific Division

Junior Division (ages 9-13 as of January 1)
1st place: Cait O'Sullivan, New Jersey
2nd place: Lemuel Coltrane, North Carolina
3rd place: Alex Empet, Pennsylvania

Intermediate Division (ages 14-17 as of January 1)
1st place: Clarissa Ulness, Wisconsin
2nd place: William Coltrane, North Carolina
3rd place: Austin Holcomb, Florida

Senior Division (ages 18-21 as of January 1)
1st place: Molly O'Sullivan, New Jersey
2nd place: Brooke Carey, Pennsylvania

State Scrapbook
The state scrapbook contest gives each state the chance to tell the story of activities and events their Junior Holstein associations take part in each year. Six states submitted traditional scrapbooks this year.

1st place: Iowa
2nd place: North Carolina
3rd place: Illinois
4th place: Pennsylvania
5th place: Michigan

Digital State Scrapbook
The Digital Scrapbook division had 5 entries submitted this year. This division is judged on the same criteria as a traditional scrapbook, but entries must be presented on a computer, DVD player, or other digital format.

1st place: Virginia
2nd place: Illinois
3rd place: Washington
4th place: Wisconsin
5th place: New York

State Banner
The state banner competition allows states to creatively showcase their state pride, with eight entries submitted this year, displayed throughout the week at the Convention.

1st place: Michigan
2nd place: Missouri
3rd place: Iowa

Mission Membership
One state is awarded each year for increasing their membership. The honor is calculated on a percentage increase from January 1 to June 1 of the convention year. This year, Wisconsin was presented the plaque.

NHWSO Awards Scholarships
Three Junior Holstein members were awarded scholarships by the National Holstein Women’s Scholarship Organization (NHWSO) during the National Junior Holstein Convention. This year’s recipients were Lora Wright, Missouri, Sarah Thomas, North Carolina and Brock Irwin, Illinois. 

New Representatives Elected to Junior Advisory Committee (JAC)
Three new youth area representatives were elected to the National Junior Advisory Committee (JAC) during the National Junior Forum. These youth members were appointed to the Junior Advisory Committee: Area 1 - Todd Allen, Maryland; Area 3 - Brock Irwin, Illinois; and At-Large - Lora Wright, Missouri.

The JAC is the governing body of the Junior Association and oversees the organization's activities. Youth committee members are elected by the Junior membership at the National Junior Forum, and members serve two-year terms.

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Brattleboro, Vt., July 11, 2019 — Tera Baker, Three Oaks, Michigan, is the 2019 Robert H. Rumler Scholarship recipient. Tera is currently enrolled in the MBA Program at Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant, Michigan with an anticipated March 2020 graduation date.

“Growing up a farm kid, the best and only jobs I ever had were working with dirt and cows. I don’t ever want to be found relying on ‘the way it has always been done’ from my decision making but would rather fill my toolbox with extensive education and out of the box thought training to propel my circle of influence forward,” Baker states. “I often find myself pondering how I am so lucky to still work with cows, dirt and awesome people in the farming industry in my role as a sales manager. I know that I cannot rest on my laurels in order to continue to add value to our industry.”

Baker works to connect cutting edge feeding technology with farm level production. In 2016, she was promoted to the sales manager of livestock products for Topcon Agriculture Americas. With a passion for the dairy cow, she spends free time working on her family’s farm in Michigan and serves as an advisor to the Michigan Junior Holstein Association board of directors.

Baker was recognized as the 2018 Michigan Holstein Association’s Outstanding Young Breeder. She is a Class 10 graduate of the Holstein Foundation’s Young Dairy Leaders Institute. In 2012, Baker was honored as a Holstein Association USA National Distinguished Junior Member.

Tera Baker received recognition for the Robert H. Rumler Scholarship at the 134th Annual Meeting of the Holstein Association USA Inc., held in Appleton, Wisconsin.

About the Award

The $3,000 scholarship was established in 1984 by Holstein Association USA, Inc. to encourage deserving and qualified individuals with a bachelor's degree in dairy production to obtain a master's degree in business administration.

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Brattleboro, Vt., July 10, 2019 — Holstein Association USA recently recognized six finalists as 2019 National Distinguished Junior Members (DJM) at the National Junior Holstein Convention on June 27 in Appleton, Wisconsin. This is the highest honor a Junior Holstein member may receive and is based on outstanding work throughout their dairy project career.

The contest, held since 1922, has honored 374 outstanding dairy youth for their contributions to the Association and the dairy industry as a whole.

The finalists for this year's competition are Allison Breunig, Sauk City, Wisconsin; Kalista Hodorff, Eden, Wisconsin; Brock Irwin, Belvidere, Illinois; Sarah Thomas, Pittsboro, North Carolina; Taylor Wolfe, Milton, Pennsylvania; and Lora Wright, Verona, Missouri.

Applicants completed two judging phases. Phase one, the Junior's entry book, is worth 60 percent of the final score. The book highlights the Junior's Holstein work, activities and projects, breeding program and personal views.

Phase two takes place at the National Junior Holstein Convention, where the twelve semifinalists are interviewed by a second committee. The interview accounts for 40 percent of the final score. The six individuals with the highest combined scores were recognized at the Gala Banquet as Distinguished Junior Member Finalists and receive an annual renewed membership to the Holstein Association.

“The Distinguished Junior Member program is the longest running Holstein youth program. This recognition is coveted by Junior members working with Registered Holsteins across the United States,” Kelli Dunklee, Holstein Association USA & Holstein Foundation Program Specialist states. “These youth leaders excel at what they do each day and are phenomenal individuals in addition to being role models and spokespeople for the dairy industry.”

Young Distinguished Junior Members (YDJM)

The Young Distinguished Junior Member (YDJM) Contest selected eight Junior members as finalists and were recognized at the National Junior Holstein Convention. The YDJM winners were judged on similar criteria to the Distinguished Junior Member Contest, but do not complete the interview phase.

The Young Distinguished Junior Members for 2019 are: Caroline Arrowsmith, Peach Bottom, Pennsylvania; Delana Erbsen, Lanark, Illinois; Austin Holcomb, Lithia, Florida; Kylie Konyn, Escondido, California; Brianna Meyer, Chilton, Wisconsin; Ainsley Noble, Lancaster, Wisconsin; Addison Raber, Gridley, Illinois; and Clarissa Ulness, Valders, Wisconsin.

For more information about Holstein Association USA’s youth programs, visit www.holsteinusa.com/juniors.

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Brattleboro, Vt., July 9, 2019 — This year’s Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder is encouraged by her family’s history and is committed to advancing the dairy herd into the future. Holstein Association USA is proud to recognize Sheri L. Regan-Danhof of Waukon, Iowa, as the 2019 Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder.

Sheri’s grandparents, William and Angela, started the farm with Guernsey and grade Holstein cows in 1951. In those early years, it was William’s progressive vision that advanced the herd. William was the first in the county to participate in DHIA testing, to use artificial insemination and employ embryo transfer.

The foundation William instilled in his children and grandchildren remains the core of what they do at Regancrest. They work every day to be better and perfect the art of breeding.

With 1,200 acres as her childhood playground, Sheri always enjoyed days spent on the farm, whether it was feeding calves, milking cows or helping with registrations and classification. Working alongside her dad, Frank Regan, she was provided with a lot of learning opportunities.

After attending Northeast Iowa Community College ­ Calmar to study business, Sheri returned to the farm and is now a partner in Regancrest Holsteins. She is actively involved in the genetics side of their operation, working to breed a better cow with each generation.

Sheri’s thirst for genetics stems from many visits with people from countries like Japan, Korea or China, who came to the farm for sought-after genetics. She enjoyed that side of the business and it is important to her that they maintain their position in the domestic and international genetic marketplace.

Currently, the 900-cow herd at Regancrest Holsteins is milked three times a day in a double-16 herringbone parlor. They made the decision to go to three-times-a-day milking five years ago, in an effort to maximize stall space, parlor load and the number of cows in the herd. Overall herd health has improved since cows are being seen more often, Sheri says.

At Regancrest, one of the most instrumental cows for Sheri was Regancrest-PR Barbie. Barbie epitomized the type that the breed was needing at the time, alongside the high index. She became a well-known name worldwide and helped advance herd genetics for dairy producers around the globe.

Sheri describes Barbie as a well-balanced cow, with a wide rump and beautiful udder, and perfect feet and legs. Barbie was the foundation for cows that are thrifty, adapt to their environment and don’t require a lot of extra work.

“Being part of Holstein USA, I think it is very simple to say that they offer the opportunity to maximize and bring added profit to your cows,” Regan-Danhof says. “They combine so much data that is out there for us to use, which in turn helps us to merchandise our best cow’s progeny. We’ve really seen that true since the start of our farm back in the 50’s through today.”

Sheri and her husband, Jason, share an enthusiasm for breeding, owning and developing fine animals. Together, they have developed the Danhof prefix.

When Sheri returns home each night, she knows that tomorrow is a new day — calves will be born, representing new opportunities for the herd. She knows there is always more to learn, to experience and goals to set for the operation’s future.

About the Award   

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Brattleboro, Vt., July 8, 2019 — For David Bachmann Sr., dairy cattle breeding is a work of art. Holstein Association is honored to present David Bachmann Sr. of Pinehurst Farms of Sheboygan, Wisconsin the 2019 Elite Breeder Award.

A reflection of Pinehurst Farms’ progressive spirit, this year’s Elite Breeder bred and developed a grand champion-caliber Registered Holstein® herd for over 50 years. He’s unmatched in the showring, and relentless in his goal of breeding better cows that are judged both on how they look, and how they perform in and out of the showring.

Pinehurst Farms, Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin, is widely known as a world-class operation with some of the finest cattle ever bred. David has the uncanny eye to find a “diamond in the rough,” take her home and turn her into a class winner.

In 1976, David’s show string was the first to be named Premier Breeder and Premier Exhibitor at three national shows, repeated again in 1980. Pinehurst exhibited World Dairy Expo Grand Champions in four different breeds and two of them went on to be named Supreme Champion.

Among David’s other accomplishments, Pinehurst Farms received more than 200 All-American nominees, over 50 All-American and Reserve All-American awards, and was named Premier Breeder or Exhibitor at 20 national shows.

In 1950, brothers David and Peter Bachmann purchased the farm from their grandfather, Peter Reiss. Over the years, David purchased additional land and added new buildings, bringing the farm to 800 acres and 300 Registered Holsteins.

David developed Pinehurst’s herd so that it combined longevity with high lifetime production and superior type. His talent for breeding tremendous, deep pedigrees with long strings of Excellent cows, all with outstanding production records, is the envy of breeders worldwide.

Pinehurst Farms, a 2013 Herd of Excellence award winner, was home to many of the Holstein breed’s great brood cows. David is well-known for developing the Audrey Posch EX-93 GMD cow family. She has founded an uninterrupted 20-generation group of Excellent females. The legendary family has resulted in many generations of foundation cows.

David enjoyed the bull side of the business, too. He excelled at identifying, proving and merchandising bulls. Pinehurst Peerless was his first All-American bull and the start of his export business.

David’s commitment is not only apparent in Pinehurst Farms’ outstanding achievements, but also in his service on Holstein Association USA’s Board of Directors. During his tenure, from 1986 to 1994, David was a member of the finance committee, chaired that committee for two years, and served three years on the executive committee.

As someone who is always willing to share his knowledge and experience, many young breeders have gained expertise from his guidance and support. The positive impact of David Bachmann’s influence of the Holstein breed has and will be felt for many years.

About the Award

The award recognizes a Holstein breeder who bred outstanding animals, making a notable contribution to the advancement of the Holstein breed in the United States. David Bachmann Sr. is a true ambassador of both the dairy industry and the Registered Holstein cow. David was recently honored during the 2019 National Holstein Convention in Appleton, Wisconsin.

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Brattleboro, Vt., July 2, 2019 — A defining mark of leadership is the ability to look ahead, identify opportunities and take action to move them forward. This year’s Distinguished Leadership Award recipient, George A. Miller of Columbus, Ohio, has dedicated his career to advancing dairy cattle genetics, and improving productivity for farmers around the world.

It only takes one decision to change a life, or an entire breed, forever. August 30, 1965 is a day that George will never forget. On a farm 50 miles west of Washington, D.C., Round Oak Rag Apple Elevation was born — a sire that would forever influence the Holstein breed. George proposed the magical mating to his cousin, Ronald Hope, because he recognized something special in that genetic combination.

From the day he was born, Elevation stood apart, and he would go on to become a global breeding phenomenon. With more than 80,000 daughters and at least 2.3 million granddaughters, Elevation is known as the most influential dairy bull ever born. It is estimated that more than 95 percent of all Holstein animals worldwide can trace their bloodlines back to Elevation. None of this would have been possible without George’s vision of what could be, and his determination to see it through.

Hailing from Virginia, George grew up helping on his uncle’s Round Oak Farm. He and Ronald worked with the milking herd, and it was there that George developed an interest in the breeding aspect of the herd and pedigrees of Holstein cattle.

In 1943, George graduated as salutatorian from Lincoln High School in Virginia. He went on to study dairy husbandry at Virginia Polytechnic Institute (VPI) and graduated in 1952 with his bachelor’s degree. During his time at VPI, he worked as the dairy’s herdsman and was the dairy science club president. Thriving on education, George received his master’s degree in dairy science from VPI in 1956.

After graduation, George joined the Virginia Artificial Breeders Association (VABA) as a fieldman. He was soon promoted to sales manager and then to general manager. While manager, George oversaw many new developments and changes to the dairy and A.I. industry.

During his tenure, VABA converted from liquid semen production to a 100 percent frozen semen product. Together with other A.I. managers, he created United Semen Exchange. This allowed small A.I. organizations, and the dairymen they served, to access a wider selection of sires from across the country.

Sharing his talents and enthusiasm with Virginia breeders, George enjoyed offering advice on matings to help develop a sound herd. Respecting a farmer’s time and finances, George directed the development of Do-It-Yourself insemination programs, so farms could reduce the costs of incorporating A.I. in their herds.

A lifelong student of Holstein ancestry, George is respected by Holstein enthusiasts everywhere. Retired in 1996, his example continues to inspire the dairy community and its leaders. George is a strong advocate for the U.S. Holstein cow and enjoys sharing the opportunities presented by top U.S. Holstein sires to cattle breeders.

George’s 40-year career in the A.I. industry, coupled with the revolutionary Elevation sire, has been an incredible contribution to the Holstein breed and the entire dairy community. His commitment and vision will continue to inspire for generations to come.

About the Award

This award recognizes an individual who has made a career of providing outstanding and unselfish leadership for the betterment of the dairy industry. Miller received the award at the recent National Holstein Convention in Appleton, Wisconsin.

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Brattleboro, Vt., July 2, 2019 — The Holstein Association USA, Inc. (HAUSA) board of directors met June 23-24, 2019 in Wisconsin. Chaired by President Boyd Schaufelberger, the business meeting was held in conjunction with the 134th Annual Meeting and convention at the Red Lion Hotel Paper Valley.

Committee and management staff reports

The board heard reports from the Audit, Genetic Advancement, International, and Type Advisory committees.

The Board approved a recommendation from the Type Advisory Committee to investigate adding rear legs-side view back into the foot and leg composite at an appropriate weighting and a recommendation from the Genetic Advancement Committee to research formulating a dollar value for TPI® as a secondary number.

The Board heard an update on two genetics research projects which are currently underway and funded by the Holstein Association.

Dr. Christian Maltecca of North Carolina State University is the primary investigator for the research project which utilizes genomic information to increase genetic gain and minimize the unfavorable effects of inbreeding in the U.S. Holstein population. Lead researcher, Dr. Anna Denicol of the University of California-Davis is overseeing another project looking at breeding Holstein cows for heat tolerance using the slick hair gene.

The Association is currently inviting research grant proposals with expected outcomes to benefit the profitability of Holstein cattle. Research may involve traditional production disciplines of genetics, nutrition, or reproduction as well as dairy foods or economics. The submission deadline is August 15, 2019. Applications will be reviewed, ranked, and the successful project announced later in the year.

Management staff updated the board of directors on the 2019 Management-by-Objective business plan and financial report.

Other news

During a dinner on June 24th, the board honored outgoing President Boyd Schaufelberger of Illinois and Director Mark Kerndt of Iowa.

Newly-elected President Corey Geiger of Wisconsin took the chair during a reorganization meeting of the board on June 27th. The board welcomed newly-elected Vice President Jonathan Lamb of New York, and Director Spencer Hackett of Minnesota (Region 6), along with returning Directors Steve Keene of Maine (Region 1), Benjamin Newberry of Georgia (Region 4), and Peter Dueppengiesser of Wisconsin (At-Large). Officers serve two-year terms, and directors serve three years.

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Brattleboro, Vt., May 16, 2019 — The highest honor presented to a Registered Holstein® cow, Star of the Breed recognizes outstanding performance in the showring and at home on the dairy. Holstein Association USA is delighted to recognize T-Triple-T Platinum-ET as the 2018 Star of the Breed.

T-Triple-T Platinum-ET is owned by Triple-T Holsteins in partnership with Aaron Eaton, Syracuse, N.Y., and Bradley Murphy, Parish, N.Y. Platinum is a mainstay in their show string, and she continually places well in her classes.

Nathan Thomas, one of the Triple-T Holsteins owners, describes Platinum as a true show girl in and out of the barn. “I’ve judged a lot of shows, and I truly believe that really good cows are good every day, not just at the show,” Nathan says. “Platinum is a real easy-going cow — a cow with a good personality. She’s a very balanced dairy cow with a tremendous udder and great feet and legs.”

Platinum is from a sought-after family. The Thomases estimate that 80 percent of their Holstein herd goes back to the T-Triple-T Dundee Paige family. Paige has always been dependable and produced strong, powerful milk cows that consistently do great things. The reach of Platinum’s outstanding genetics spans across the globe. She’s part of a conventional and IVF flush program. The Thomases exported a lot of Platinum’s embryos to Japan when she was a heifer and a two-year-old.

T-Triple-T Platinum-ET will be recognized at the 2019 National Holstein Convention Gala Banquet, June 27, 2019 in Appleton, Wisconsin. Banquet tickets are available by registering online at www.2019holsteinconventionwi.com/register.

Read more about this esteemed cow in the Spring 2019 issue of The Pulse. Select pages of The Pulse are available online at www.holsteinusa.com under the Latest News tab, then click The Pulse.

About the Award

To be eligible for the Star of the Breed award, a cow must place in the top five in her class at a National Holstein Show, be in a herd enrolled in the TriStarSM program and have an official classification score. Once the eligible cows are determined, the following calculation is used to determine the award recipient: Combined Mature Equivalent (ME) Fat and Protein + Age Adjusted Classification Score x (Breed Average ME CFP/ Breed Average Age Adjusted Score).

For more information about the Star of the Breed Award, visit www.holsteinusa.com/awards/animals.html.

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Brattleboro, Vt., May 15, 2019 — Sixteen Registered Holstein® breeders have earned the distinction of 2018 Herd of Excellence by Holstein Association USA. There are three herd size divisions, Small Herd (10-99 cows), Medium Herd (100-499 cows), and Large Herd (500+ cows). Each division is based on the number of cows included in Mature Equivalent (ME) production averages for each herd.

The Herd of Excellence designation honors Registered Holstein breeders who have developed Holstein herds that excel in both production and type.  

To be recognized with this accolade, herds must have classified within the last year and have an age-adjusted average classification score of 83 points or higher; have at least 70 percent of the herd homebred; and be enrolled in the Association's TriStarSM production records program. Additionally, qualifying herds must meet the following production criteria:

• Large Herd Division - 15 percent above breed average ME for milk, fat and protein
• Medium Herd Division - 20 percent above breed average ME for milk, fat and protein
• Small Herd Division - 25 percent above breed average ME for milk, fat and protein

Of the 16 herds, two are first year recipients — Charles M. Maurer, Maurer Farm, Chilton, Wis. and Darrell & Bonita Richard, Darita Holsteins, Goshen Ind.

Bruce, Brenda & Bret Long, B-Long Holsteins, New London, Wis. and Hilrose Holsteins, Sherwood, Wis. both received the award eight years. Thomas J. Kestell, Ever-Green-View Farms, Waldo, Wis. is a nine-year recipient.

This year’s honorees are:

Large Herd Division:

• The Siemers Family, Siemers Holstein Farms Inc, Newton, Wis.
  ME Production Averages — 35,750M 1,389F 1,070P

• The Migliazzo Family, Dinomi Holsteins, Atwater, Calif.
  ME Production Averages — 35,344M 1,331F 1,129P

• Bradley Cates, Co-Vale Holsteins, Preble, N.Y.
  ME Production Averages — 31,164M 1,256F 970P

• Joseph A. Brantmeier, Hilrose Holsteins, Sherwood, Wis.
  ME Production Averages — 33,420M 1,254F 1,001P

• Jeffrey A. & Kate Hendrickson, Jeffrey-Way Holsteins, Belleville, Wis.
  ME Production Averages ? 33,695M 1,256F 1,061P

• The Koepke Family, Koepke Farms Inc., Oconomowoc, Wis.
  ME Production Averages — 34,719M 1,430F 1,042P

• The Koester Family, Koester Dairy Inc., Dakota, Ill.
  ME Production Averages — 33,856M 1,343F 1,059P

• Daniel J. & Nancy Pagenkopf, Paradise-D Holsteins, Lancaster, Wis.
  ME Production Averages — 32,694M 1,359F 1,003P

• Charles M. Maurer, Maurer Farm, Chilton, Wis.
  ME Production Averages — 32,734M 1,251F 998P

• S. Scott & April D. Cooper, Appealing Holsteins, Delta, Pa.
  ME Production Averages — 37,484M 1,395F 1,127P

• George Malkemus & Anthony Yurgaitis, Arethusa Farm LLC, Litchfield, Conn.
  ME Production Averages — 37,110M 1,349F 1,158P

• Bruce, Brenda & Bret Long, B-Long Holsteins, New London, Wis.
  ME Production Averages — 35,341M 1,332F 1,092P

• Thomas J. Kestell, Ever-Green-View Holsteins, LLC, Waldo, Wis.
  ME Production Averages — 40,015M 1,592F 1,219P

• Grafton County Farm, Grafco Holsteins, North Haverhill, N.H.
  ME Production Averages — 33,970M 1,347F 1,051P

• John W. & Evelyn A. Hamilton, Hill-Ton Holsteins, Cuba City, Wis.
  ME Production Averages — 35,181M 1,322F 1,082P 

• Darrell & Bonita Richard, Darita Holsteins, Goshen Ind.
  ME Production Averages — 34,402M 1,565F 1,067P

Since its beginning in 2008, the Herd of Excellence honor has become one of the most coveted Holstein Association USA awards. These 16 Holstein breeders are acknowledged for having mastered the art of breeding balanced cattle — exceptional conformation paired with high production. Congratulations to the 2018 Herd of Excellence honorees.

The awards will be presented during Holstein Association USA's 134th Annual Meeting in Appleton, Wisconsin on June 26, 2019.

Read more about these remarkable herds in the Spring 2019 issue of The Pulse. Select pages of The Pulse are available online at www.holsteinusa.com under the Latest News tab, then click The Pulse.

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Brattleboro, Vt., May 6, 2019 — Holstein Association USA is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2019 recognition accolades to be formally presented at the 2019 National Holstein Convention in June.

The 2019 honorees are as follows:

These Holstein leaders will be recognized at the 2019 National Holstein Convention Gala Banquet, June 27, 2019 in Appleton, Wisconsin. Banquet tickets are available by registering online at www.2019holsteinconventionwi.com/register. Prior to the banquet, the President's Reception gives all attendees the opportunity to celebrate and interact with these honorees while enjoying complimentary hors d'oeuvres.

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Brattleboro, Vt., April 24, 2019 — Youth development is critical to the future of the dairy industry, and that's why BioZyme Inc., a long-time leader in livestock nutrition and microbiology, stepped up this year to sponsor the Junior Registered Holstein® Shows taking place across the nation in 2019.

"We've enjoyed supporting junior activities for a long time," says BioZyme Inc.'s CEO Bob Norton. "We're excited about our partnership with Holstein Association USA, and looking forward to meeting the next generation of Registered Holstein breeders."

Located in Saint Joseph, Mo., BioZyme Inc. has been in the livestock nutrition business for more than 50 years. It offers a complete line of pre-biotic, vitamin, trace mineral and protein supplements for animals and has customers around the world. Two of its product lines — Amaferm and Vita Charge — will be featured as part of the sponsorship.

"We're proud to have BioZyme Inc. working with us to build the next generation of Registered Holstein breeders," remarks Holstein Association USA's CEO John Meyer. "We're looking forward to working with them throughout the year — and to continuing to build our partnership with this leading ag company."

Junior show participants will receive official shirts with the Amaferm-Vita Charge logo. Junior bred and owned champions class winners will also receive neck medallions embossed with the Amaferm-Vita Charge logo.

In addition to the show sponsorship, BioZyme also supports the Young Dairy Leaders Institute (YDLI), which attracts young dairy leaders from across the country to develop leadership skills and communication skills.

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Beef, Dairy Collaboration Launches HOLSimTM Program
First-of-its-kind branded program promises to reshape beef-on-dairy opportunities.

Brattleboro, Vt., April 10, 2019 — The American Simmental Association (ASA) and Holstein Association USA (HAUSA) have announced the formation of the HOLSimTM branded program.

The program identifies elite SimAngusTM bulls with specific production attributes as mating solutions for dairy producers who breed some of their herd to beef.

The program’s objective is threefold: to provide additional revenue to dairy producers through the production of value-added terminal calves; to offer new marketing avenues for progressive beef seedstock operations; and to offer a consistent supply of high-quality calves better situated to capture market premiums. 

“Holstein producers now have the opportunity to easily participate by simply selecting from the list of HOLSim bulls carried by their semen provider,” says Chip Kemp, ASA Director of Commercial and Industry Operations. “Through the International Genetic Solutions platform, we took a breed agnostic look at what type of beef bulls make the most sense to complement a Holstein female to add the most profitability to the terminal calf.”

Qualifying for the sire list is not easy, and bulls that do so represent an elite group of beef genetics. All bulls in the program will be required to include the HOLSim logo in all marketing and promotional material.

“The bulls must be homozygous black, homozygous polled, have a minimum birth weight accuracy of .4, and meet a minimum threshold in the HOLSim Index,” Kemp explains.

The HOLSim Index uses the IGS Feeder Profit CalculatorTM (FPC), the industry leader in feeder cattle evaluation, as the foundation for this effort.

The results from the FPC are then adjusted for the unique economic situations relevant to Holstein cattle, namely, the need for added calving ease, muscle conformation, grading ability and sensitivity to carcass length.

John Meyer, CEO of Holstein Association USA, says the HOLSim program has the potential to change the beef-on-dairy dynamic.

“Instead of just breeding Holsteins to a black beef bull, now dairy farmers can breed to a SimAngus bull that ranks high on the HOLSim index. By doing that, they can raise more profitable offspring coveted by both the feedlot and the consumer,” Meyer says.

The program is underpinned by HAUSA’s industry-leading animal identification program, something that will add increasing value in the marketplace as consumers require more information about where their food comes from. Because dairy operations calve year-round, a continuous and steady supply of high-quality beef will be available to distributors, retailers and restaurateurs that have struggled historically with seasonal fluctuations of supplies.

To qualify for the program, all animals must have a Registered Holstein® dam, and be bred to SimAngus bulls identified through the IGS Feeder Profit Calculator.

The HOLSim program is the first of its kind and offers dairy farmers a unique opportunity to build new profit centers.
“To my knowledge, this is the first time that a beef and a dairy breed association have collaborated to have a specific program to benefit both organizations and their respective members and industries,” Meyer says.

Those wanting to learn more can visit simmental.org or holsteinusa.com, or contact Darin Johnson at 802.451.4048, or by email.

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Brattleboro, Vt., April 10, 2019 — The National Junior Holstein Association is a dynamic organization for youth under the age of 21, with over 8,000 active members in 48 states.

Semifinalists in the 97th Annual Holstein Association USA Distinguished Junior Member contest, a competition recognizing excellence in the Junior Holstein Association, are announced.

Established in 1922, this contest is the longest running Holstein youth program. The Distinguished Junior Member award is the highest honor given to members of the National Junior Holstein Association, ages 17 to 21, in recognition of a commitment to the Holstein breed and involvement in a variety of agriculture related activities.

The 2019 Distinguished Junior Members Semifinalists are:

• Nathan Arthur, Sumner, Iowa
• Madeline Beaudry, Walpole, New Hampshire
• Allison Breunig, Sauk City, Wisconsin
• Kalista Hodorff, Eden, Wisconsin
• Brock Irwin, Belvidere, Illinois
• Cady McGehee, Okeechobee, Florida
• Courtney Moser, Westby, Wisconsin
• Sierra Swanson, Hutchinson, Minnesota
• Sarah Thomas, Pittsboro, North Carolina
• Zachariah Tolzman, Dodgeville, Wisconsin       
• Taylor Wolfe, Milton, Pennsylvania
• Lora Wright, Verona, Missouri

The twelve semifinalists will interview at the National Holstein Convention, June 23-27, 2019 in Appleton, Wisconsin. Six finalists are announced during the Convention Gala Banquet, June 27, 2019 at the Red Lion Hotel Paper Valley in Appleton, Wisconsin.

Eight finalists have been named in Holstein Association USA’s annual Young Distinguished Junior Member (YDJM) competition.

The YDJM recognition is designed to reward youth, ages 9 to 16, who demonstrate a firsthand working knowledge of the dairy industry. Applicants must participate in Registered Holstein®, dairy and other activities, be role models for other youth and good spokespeople for the dairy industry.

The 2019 Young Distinguished Junior Members Finalists are:

• Caroline Arrowsmith, Peach Bottom, Pennsylvania
• Delana Erbsen, Lanark, Illinois
• Austin Holcomb, Lithia, Florida
• Kylie Konyn, Escondido, California
• Brianna Meyer, Chilton, Wisconsin
• Ainsley Noble, Lancaster, Wisconsin
• Addison Raber, Gridly, Illinois
• Clarissa Ulness, Valders, Wisconsin

The 2019 Young Distinguished Junior Members Finalists will be recognized during the 2019 National Junior Holstein Awards Luncheon on June 27, 2019 in Appleton, Wisconsin.

2019 National Holstein Convention tickets are available by registering online, www.2019holsteinconventionwi.com/register.

For more information about the YDJM contest or other Holstein youth programs, visit www.holsteinusa.com/juniors, or contact Kelli Dunklee at 800.952.5200, ext. 4124 or email.

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Patrick Twining
James Smith

Brattleboro, Vt., April 8, 2019 — Holstein Association USA sales team continues to grow, with Patrick Twining and James Smith joining the company as regional sales representatives. Twining covers Kentucky, Ohio and Tennessee while Smith is in the New England and Eastern New York region.

“Regional sales representatives are a valuable partner to dairy producers when it pertains to identification and genetics services while providing prompt service and knowledgeable answers for HAUSA products and services,” says Steve Peterson, national sales manager. “Patrick and Jim bring a great background to their position as regional sales representatives. They have first-hand knowledge of working with Registered Holsteins.”

Twining earned his bachelor’s in animal science with a dairy certificate in addition to a turfgrass science minor from Ohio State University. He brings more than 15 years of experience in the dairy industry, having held roles in companies serving a variety of markets. Prior to joining Holstein Association USA, he worked in the AI industry.

A native of Delaware, Smith graduated from Delaware State University with a bachelor’s in general agriculture. He gained on-farm experience as a calf manager for Emerson Farms, Middletown, Del. Previously, Smith was a five-year customer service representative for Holstein Association USA.

Along with Twining and Smith, there are sixteen additional regional sales representatives in the country. These dairy experts help producers utilize Association programs to improve their herds and increase their bottom lines. To find which regional sales representative covers your area or to contact your representative, visit www.holsteinusa.com.

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Brattleboro, Vt., April 4, 2019 — Holstein Association USA is excited to honor herds with the 2018 Progressive Genetics HerdSM award. Given annually, the award is presented to Registered Holstein® herds with high genetic values, measured by average CTPI.

The Progressive Genetics Herd (PGH) recognition was first given in 1991. The PGH award honors herds with high genetic value, based on average TPI® levels, which lead toward continued breed progress.

To qualify for the PGH award, herds must participate in the TriStarSM production records program at the Premier or Deluxe levels, and participate in the Holstein type classification program. Herds must have at least 20 cows of 87% RHA or higher.

All eligible herds are automatically evaluated annually and the PGH recognition is awarded to the 500 herds with the highest average TPI for females in the herd, both young and mature.

The TPI average range for the top 500 herds in 2018 was 2035 to 2537. The highest average TPI herd in this year's PGH honoree group was David, Frank Paul & Patrick Bauer of Sandy-Valley Holsteins in Wisconsin, with an average TPI of 2537.

Forty-two herds received the award for the first time this year: Arizona Dairy Co., Ariz.; Donald G. Averill, Jr., Ore.; Boadwine Farms, Inc., S.D.; BWC Weststeyn Dairy LP, Calif.; James Carvalho, Calif.; Ted J. Domeyer, Iowa; Donley Farms, Inc., Idaho; Dutch Dairy LLC, Wis.; Faria Dairy, Inc., Calif.; Fern-Oak Farms, Calif.; Finger Family Farm LLC, Wis.; John W., Jr. & Angie George, Pa.; Grafton County Farm, N.H.; Hemsteads Holsteins, Ohio; Leslie Shirk High, Iowa; Shawn Hollermann, Minn.; Hulstein Brothers, Inc., Iowa; Matthew Ryan Johnson, N.C.; William D III & Benjamin Casey Jones, Pa.; George Kasbergen, Ill.; Ketchum Farms, Minn.; Kaleb, Cole & Carter Kruse, Iowa; Jeremiah Lungwitz, Colo.; Maple Grove Dairy Inc., Wis.; Mapltwin Farms LLC, Wis.; Glendon Martin, Pa.; Sheldon Martin, Wis.; Kenneth M. & Christine A. McBroom, Mich.; Jeremy Wilson McCain, N.C.; McCollum Farm Partnership, N.Y.; Richard & Elaine Pausma, Iowa; Quantum Dairy, LLC, Wis.; Rocking S Dairy, Calif.; So-Fine Bovines LLC, Wis.; South Dakota State University, S.D.; Southeast Research Station, La.; Sweet-Haven Holsteins, Calif.; Codey Waller, Iowa; Jeff & Melinda Walz, Iowa; Christopher C. Weber, Wis.; Justin R. Wiebe, Iowa; and Lamar H. Zimmerman, Pa.

Twenty-two herds have received PGH honors all 28 years the award has been given: Bomaz, Inc., Wis.; R. Paul Buhr, Jr., Wis.; De Su Holsteins LLC, Iowa; End Road Farm, Mich.; Brian & Wendy Fust, Wis.; Jaloda Farms, Ohio; Randy W. Kortus, Wash.; Roger & David Latuch, Pa.; Lirr Farm, Wis.; Nordic-Haven Holsteins, Iowa; Gaylon, Gary & Steve Obert, Ill.; Mark P. Paul, Wis.; Regancrest Holsteins, LLC, Iowa; Darrell Richard, Ind.; Alfred & Mark Schmitt, Minn.; Scott Seward, Wis.; Stelling Farms, Inc., Minn.; Twin-B-Dairy LLC, Wis.; Veazland Farms, Maine; Walhowdon Farm, Inc., N.H.; Wardin Bros., Mich.; and Welcome Stock Farm, LLC, N.Y. 

View the complete list of 2018 Progressive Genetics Herd Award honorees at http://www.holsteinusa.com/awards/herds.html.

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Brattleboro, Vt., March 22, 2019 — Holstein Association USA announces an exciting new award recognizing U.S. Registered Holstein® cows and their owners for exceptional performance at National Holstein Shows. The All-National Showcase Program is designed to add value to Registered Holstein cattle and reward their participation in National Shows.

“Having another recognition program for Registered Holsteins is very exciting for us. A lot of sports have points-driven contests throughout the season to determine the overall best of the best, and this program will mirror that,” says Jodi Hoynoski, Executive Director, Holstein Identification & Member Services.

To be eligible, animals must be registered in the Holstein Association USA herdbook on or before November 15 in the award year.  Animals will be eligible to earn points at each National Holstein Show exhibited at throughout the year. Points are allocated for a top 10 placing in their respective uniform age class, based on the size of the show. Bonus points will be awarded to champions.

In each of the uniform show classes, the top 10 animals earning the most points will be recognized on the Holstein Association USA website and will receive a certificate. For the top two animals, the website will feature a picture and pedigree link, and the recognition will be added to the animal's Official Holstein PedigreeTM.

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Brattleboro, Vt., March 19, 2019 — Holstein Association USA is pleased to announce the recipients of 2018 Progressive Breeders' RegistrySM. The Progressive Breeders’ Registry (PBR) is given to the top herds that excel at maintaining a balance of production and type performance, with a high percentage of homebred females.

Established in 1937, this is the Association’s longest-running award and honors over 200 breeders annually.

To qualify for the PBR award, a herd must be a member of both their national and state associations, enrolled in the Deluxe or Premier TriStarSM option, and participate in a classification option which provides a BAA (Breed Age Average). The herd's BAA must be in the top 25 percent of herds classified in the 18 months prior to March 1 of the award year. Herds must have at least 20 cows which are 87% RHA or higher and at least 75 percent of the herd must be homebred.

Herds must exceed award-year production level cut-offs, which are based on the Mature Equivalent (ME) for combined fat and protein, and cut-offs are adjusted on the ME herd averages for that state, to compensate for regional differences in production levels.

All eligible herds are evaluated automatically each year. In 2018, 218 herds earned this distinction.

There were 35 first-time PBR honorees: Anthony L. Musser, Mo.; Barry M. Richardson, Wis.; Bonow Farms LLC, Minn.; Bradley J. Korver, Iowa; Circle Drive Holsteins, Minn.; Dale B. & Kynel Himmelberger, Pa.; Daniel P. Esh, Pa.; Douglas Brander, Wis.; Dwight J. & Anita J. Rokey, Kan.; Evan & Darla Stump, Pa.; Grafton County Farm, N.H.; Haag Dairy LLC, Wis.; Harold K. Christensen, Jr., Wis.; James D. Busch, Wis.; Jason Volker, Iowa; Jeff Petermeier, Minn.; Jeffrey H. Zuck, Pa.; John D. & Joan M. Judd, Wis.; Kylie Konyn, Calif.; Leroy H. Hoover, Pa.; Mark Carviou, Wis.; Marlin J. Bontrager, Iowa; Michael C. Haag, Pa.; Nelson Farms, Calif.; Nolan S. Garman, Wis.; North Dakota State University, N.D.; Peach Brook Farm LLC, Pa.; Robert & Therese Guenther, Wis.; Roger & Cheryl Arn, Wis.; Shannon Dwyer, Wis.; Sheland Farms LLC, N.Y.; Sonnenburg Farms, Wis.; Stephen D. & Sandra L. Haagen, Pa.; Tim Aho, Minn.; and Weis Way Dairy, Wis.

Two herds have qualified for the PBR award for over 50 years: Keystone Farm in Pennsylvania is a 53-year PBR herd, and Walhowdon Farm of New Hampshire has received PBR honors for 58 years.

A complete list of this year's recipients, along with those from past years, can be found at the Holstein Association USA website, www.holsteinusa.com/awards/herds.html.

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Brattleboro, Vt., March 18, 2019 — Holstein Association USA (HAUSA) invites all to view videos from the recent Member Update Meeting. The meeting was held in conjunction with the California Holstein Association State Convention.

“We have furthered our market reach through the Basic ID Program, as we now touch 380,994 Holsteins through this program. This compares to the 105,853 head that went through the program in 2003. This represents an increase of 275,141 animals.

“Clearly there is value in Registered and identified Holsteins. That’s why you have increased the number of Holsteins we’re identifying by 90 percent in 15 years,” says John Meyer, CEO of Holstein Association USA.

The meeting is broken down into several sections for ease of viewing. See the following video presentations:

HAUSA Staff Presentations

• 2018 State of Association Address - HAUSA CEO John Meyer
• HAUSA Director Elections - Bill Genasci, Region 9 director
• HAUSA Products and Services Update - Lindsey Worden, HAUSA executive director, Holstein genetic services
• AgriTech Analytics (ATA) Update - Bill VerBoort, ATA general manager
• Calendar of Events - Jodi Hoynoski, executive director, Holstein identification and member services

Guest Speakers

• Better Cows, More Profit - How Genetics Paves the Way - Dr. Jason Osterstock - Zoetis - executive director, global genetics
• A Data Driven Approach to Sourcing the Profit Focused Beef Bulls for Your Registered Holstein® Program - Chip Kemp, director, ASA & IGS commercial and industry operations, American Simmental Association
• Holstein USA and Allflex - From Animal Identification to Animal Intelligence - Glenn Fischer, president, Allflex USA and Darin Johnson, manager, dairy ID programs for HAUSA

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Brattleboro, Vt., January 28, 2019 — Even during challenging times, dairy farmers across the nation are committed to preserving this business and way of life.

It is early mornings, late nights and caring for the cattle every day of the year. It is living out a passion to raise quality cattle and supply healthy, nutritious products for consumers. And it’s all made possible thanks to the Registered Holstein® cow.

Holstein Association USA celebrates farm families during the next episode of Holstein America, 9 p.m. CST, Thursday, Feb. 7 on RFD-TV. Mark the calendar or set the DVR to record this anticipated television broadcast.

“No matter the market, whether it is fluid milk or cheese, Registered Holsteins allow farmers to make the best breeding decisions to benefit their operations,” says John Meyer, CEO of Holstein Association USA. “In the Holstein America series, we travel to regions across the country to see this versatility first hand.”

In Holstein America, learn about modern-day dairy production and hear from those with a passion for Registered Holsteins. The hour-long program, sponsored by Merck Animal Health, explores the programs and services offered by Holstein Association USA. Members explain how initiatives like Holstein Marketplace Sires, TriStarTM AMR and others help bring value back to the farm.

Holstein America premiered in February 2018 on RFD-TV. Join us for the third episode at 9 p.m. CST, Thursday, Feb. 7.

RFD-TV is a leading independent cable channel available on DISH Network, DIRECTV®, AT&T U-Verse, Charter Spectrum, Cox, Comcast, Mediacom, Suddenlink and many other rural cable systems. Reference your local listings for more information.

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Brattleboro, Vt., January 23, 2019 — Holstein Association USA has released the lists of the top Holstein Breed Age Average (BAA%) herds for 2018 classifications. Herds participating in the Classic or Standard options of the Holstein Classification program receive an overall BAA for the herd. The BAA value provides a way to compare the score of a herd average to the average of the breed, taking into account age of the animal and stage of lactation.

Holstein Association USA appreciates and recognizes outstanding Registered Holstein breeders and herds of all types and breeding philosophies, and the Holstein classification program provides an unbiased evaluation of hundreds of thousands of Holstein cows each year. The herds appearing on these lists should be commended for developing consistent herds with breed-leading conformation, which is a result of not only careful breeding decisions, but also dedicated, outstanding animal care and animal husbandry practiced 365 days a year," Executive Director of Holstein Genetic Services Lindsey Worden states.

The average BAA% for all herds in 2018 was 106.7. Six herds had a BAA of over 114.0, and Matthew T. Mitchell of Tenn. earns the recognition of having the highest BAA in the U.S. last year at 116.7 on 11 cows. Rounding out the top five include Ocean View Genetics, Wis.; Conant Acres, Inc., Maine; John P. and Rachael Holmgren, Minn.; Michael and Julie Duckett, Wis.; and Topp-View Holsteins, Ohio.

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Brattleboro, Vt., January 22, 2019 — Registration is now open for the Holstein Association USA 2019 Judges Conference, to be held on Thursday, March 28, in Columbus, Ohio, in conjunction with the Mid-East Spring National Holstein Show.

The conference includes judging classes in addition to classroom sessions. Participants will judge several high-quality Holstein classes, one of which will be assigned for oral reasons.

Individuals that plan to apply for the Holstein Association USA Judges List in the future, must first attend and receive a satisfactory rating at a Holstein Association USA Judges Conference. Judges currently on the Holstein Association USA Judges List, must attend and receive a satisfactory rating at a Holstein Association USA Judges Conference every five years.

The one-day conference will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The pre-registration fee is $50, which closes two weeks before the conference, on March 14. Late registrants and walk-ins will pay a $100 fee. To attend the conference, you must be 22 years old by the day of the conference.

Interested participants can register for the conference on the Holstein Association USA website, visit: http://www.holsteinusa.com/shows/judges_preregister.html.

Hotel accommodations can be made at the Candlewood Suites Polaris, 8515 Lyra Drive, Columbus, Ohio;
phone 614-436-6600. Ask for the Holstein Association special rate, available until March 8, subject to availability.

For more information, contact Jodi Hoynoski at 800.952.5200, ext. 4261 or by email.

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Brattleboro, Vt., January 16, 2019 — Holstein Association USA announces a new service to assist Holstein breeders to market semen to other dairy cattle breeders. Holstein Marketplace Sires - a new component of the Holstein Marketplace gives Holstein breeders the ability to directly market semen from their bulls, which will be beneficial to Holstein Association members, and dairy cattle breeders throughout the United States.

“Holstein breeder/members have been looking for a vehicle to market semen of high-quality genetics from their own herds to other breeders. Holstein Marketplace Sires does just that.

“Holstein members now have the opportunity to offer semen from bulls out of deep pedigreed cow families that excel in production, genomics, health traits, reproduction, and type. Breeders will have the opportunity to select from phenotypically proven cow families that emphasize longevity and continue breeding programs to fit their own individual goals,” states Holstein Association USA President Boyd Schaufelberger.

Holstein Marketplace Sires, a division of Holstein Services Inc., provides a new and unique avenue for Holstein breeders to market their genetics. Under the program, the bull owners retain ownership of the bulls, and Holstein Marketplace Sires provides the vehicle for the semen to be sold.

For both buyers and sellers alike, Holstein Marketplace Sires will be a trusted source for dairy cattle genetics. Bulls available at the launch of Holstein Marketplace Sires include:

• Speek-NJ of Dewgood-ET, owned by E. Dean & Wanda Good, Oconto, Wis.
• Golden-Oaks Imax Lotto, owned by Golden Oaks Farm, Wauconda, Ill.
• Hurtgenlea Splnd Maurice-ET RC PC, owned by Hurtgenlea Holsteins Ltd, Elkhorn, Wis.
• Trent-Way-JS Roddy-ET RC, owned by Trent J. Hendrickson & John R. Schneller, Blanchardville, Wis.

These bulls offer depth of maternal pedigrees, featuring multiple generations of Very Good and Excellent dams. Their strong pedigrees are complemented with the bulls’ high-ranking genomic evaluations resulting in a balance of production, health, reproduction and type. Holstein Marketplace Sires will be a unique addition to any Holstein breeders breeding program.

Purchasing semen with your credit card couldn’t be easier with two methods - online or over the phone. Buy online by visiting www.holsteinusa.com/marketplacesires, click the red “buy now” button, fill in number of units you would like to purchase, and check out using our secure online system. Or, phone in your semen order by calling customer service at 800.952.5200.

About the Holstein Marketplace
Holstein Marketplace provides easy, affordable advertising to help Registered Holstein breeders buy and sell Holstein genetics. The advertisements are grouped into broad categories for Females, Breeding Bulls, Embryos and Sales/Dispersals.

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Wright Receives National Judi Collinsworth Award

BRATTLEBORO, Vt., January 7, 2019 — Lora Wright of Verona, Mo. is the recipient of the 2018 National Judi Collinsworth Outstanding Exhibitor Award from Holstein Association USA, Inc. This award recognizes youth for their outstanding involvement with Registered Holsteins®. The Missouri native is the fourteenth Junior Holstein member to receive the scholarship.

Wright is the 18-year-old daughter of Larry and Jodi Wright. She is working towards her degree in agriculture business at Oklahoma State University. Along with being involved in her family's dairy, Wrightvale Holsteins, she works on the University's dairy and is responsible for all care of newborn calves. Upon graduation, Wright has intent to attend law school and become an agriculture attorney.

Wright has been an active member of the Missouri and National Junior Holstein Associations for the past 10 years. She annually attends Holstein conventions and has won all three divisions of the National Prepared Public Speaking Contest. She is serving her fourth term as president of the Missouri Junior Holstein Association. In 2014, Lora was honored as a Holstein Association USA Young Distinguished Junior Member.

The Judi Collinsworth Outstanding Junior Exhibitor Memorial Award is presented annually, in memory of former Holstein Association USA Executive Director of Member and Industry Services, Judi Collinsworth. Winners are selected at each of the four National Junior Holstein Shows, based on sportsmanship, herdsmanship and level of participation in Holstein activities.

Wright received the Judi Collinsworth Outstanding Junior Exhibitor Memorial Award at the Southern Spring National Junior Holstein Show. Other winners at 2018 National Junior Holstein Shows include Matthew Boop, Millmont, Pa., Premier National Junior Holstein Show and Joseph Opsal, Blue Mounds, Wis., Grand National Junior Holstein Show.

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