Posted: 03.21.2011

A packed house enjoyed warm spring weather Saturday during the Wisconsin Livestock Breeders Association (WLBA) spring banquet!

Industry honorees (pictured below) were recognized for their contributions to their species-specific dedication.

Scott and Mia Bayer of Ringle were named the 2011 Beef Industry Honorees.  The Bayers have been involved in the angus industry most of their lives.  Today, they're helping their children follow their passion for the livestock industry.  Some of the top awards the Bayer's have enjoyed include having Supreme Champion Heifers at World Beef Expo, and a Champion Angus Heifer at the Denver Livestock Show.  Today, Scott dedicates most of his time to managing their red and black angus herd, as well as a vibrant hay and straw business. Mia concentrates on the day-to-day operations at the families meat processing business, Country Fresh Meats.

Jim and Sue Rupnow of Wausau were selected as the 2011 Sheep Honorees.  The Rupnow's have acted as mentors for many sheep project students statewide.  Dan Smerchek, president of the WLBA said he could think of at least 7 kids that were direct products of the goodwill and encouragement that the Rupnow's provided.  The couple are founding members of the Wisconsin Club Lamb Association, and Sue is the current president of the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders Cooperative.  The couple is also now well recognized for their side business "Profiles" - which is a show supply source for the states sheep industry.

Paul Proctor from Stoughton was the 2011 Swine Honoree.  Paul's dedicated more then 18 years of his life to involvement in the hog industry - especially involving his son, Ryan.  Paul still maintains an active herd - and is still involved in exhibiting at both the Wisconsin State Fair and the Minnesota State Fair's open show options. 

Gail and Dan Goehring of Lowell were saluted as the Friends of the WLBA.  Although not present, Mark Bussian their presenter said that many in the audience had at one time or another relied on the Goehring's for help of some type.  In particular, the Goehrings kids were shown as an example of their parents dedication to the industry.  All of the kids are pursuing higher education in the animal sciences arena.  Goehring's gave many young people their start in the livestock industry through their club animals too.

Pictured from left to right:

Jim and Sue Rupnow - Wausau - Sheep Industry Honorees
Scott & Mia Bayer - Ringle - Beef Industry Honorees
Paul Proctor - Stoughton - Swine Industry Honoree

(THANK YOU TO JIM MASSEY OF THE COUNTRY TODAY FOR THE PHOTO)

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