Posted: 02.23.2011

Over 150 Holstein breeders from across the state were in attendance in Beaver Dam for the 2011 Wisconsin Holstein Convention.

Aside from awards - there was also serious industry discussion about the future of milk pricing in the United States. Representatives from Holstein Association USA Region 5 met on Friday afternoon with breeders in Beaver Dam to discuss their national plans.

Despite continued financial challenges in the dairy industry - the second annual Wisconsin Convention Futures Sales generated $5568 on the 37 lots sold - including prominent cow families from around the state. The highest lot sold for $20,000, consigned by Lloyd and Floyd Bauman and Fred Lang of Marathon.  The buyer was Edgewood Dairy of Custer.

2010 Wisconsin Top Performer cows recognized during the convention included animals owned by Tom Kestell of Waldo in five categories, Steve and Amanda Killian of Blair, Synergy Dairy of Pulaski, and Jerry and Brenda Yager of Highland. Receiving the overall Top Performer was Synergy Dairy with their cow Glo-Crest Seps LucyLou-Red, with over 51,000 lbs of milk.  

Three new board members were welcomed to the WHA Board of Directors: Dan Cnossen of Eland, Kent Wendorf of Viroqua, and Chad Ryan of Fond du Lac. The WHA Board of Directors met at the conclusion of the convention to elect officers for the upcoming year. Leading the way for 2011 are President Corey Geiger of Mukwanago, Vice President Todd Stanek of Fall Creek, and Secretary Angela Brown of Dodgeville, with Matt Lippert of Pittsville and Marci Walker of Wisconsin Dells serving as Executive Committee members. 

Following the annual meeting, 40-year and 50-year members and Wall of Fame inductees were honored. This year’s Wall of Fame inductees were Elmer Woelffer, the cow Crescentmead Rotate Amanda, and the bull Harborcrest Happy Crusader.

This year’s Young Distinguished Breeders were Chris and Kathie McCullough of Juda, Wis. Honored with Distinguished Service recognition was Ben Brancel of Endeavor, Wis. Receiving the prestigious Distinguished Breeder honors were Joe and Chris Brantmeier of Sherwood, Wis.

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