A brief report on the 2023 National Holstein Convention held in Lexington, KY by Vermont delegate Marion Seifert.
This convention held many highlights for New England members. First was the election of Betsy Bullard to the Board of Directors. Steve Keene was not eligible for reelection, having served two terms. We want to thank Steve for his dedicated service as a director and look forward to Betsy becoming a valued member of the Board.
Our Juniors were extremely competitive in all their contests and most importantly while not capturing any first placing, they were selected for the Sportsmanship Award in the Junior contest. They always make us proud!
As usual, the host state bent over backwards to make this an enjoyable event showcasing the immaculate horse farms with their miles of tidy white fences and their specialty beverage, bourbon. The sale was held at the Fasig-Tipton facilities with the auctioneer’s box planted in the center of the auction facilities and the cattle paraded around it!
However, more important is tending to the business of your association. In addition to the elections of officers & directors was the presentation of the newest research on topics that matter to all of us, especially in making breeding and management decisions.
As a delegate to the convention, you are involved in all aspects of the elections, reports and the discussions that take place. This year there was lively discussion on milk marketing, both what role the association should be playing and what we can do as individuals to help strengthen the milk market. It is also a time to greet old friends and make new ones from across the country. All have a common interest, the HOLSTEIN COW. On a positive note, Holstein USA has increased the delegate reimbursement to $1,000. Why should you be a delegate? With fewer and fewer of us in the business, it is important that each of us get more involved. I know we are all stretched thin on time but without your participation, we fall into the trap of letting others make decisions vital to us and our business. See that your name is on the upcoming ballot even if you must do it yourself. The 2024 convention will be held in Salt Lake City, Utah, June 24-27.
Delegates this year were:
Conn./RI: Mary Margert Smith & Bonnie Burr
Mass: Gordon Cook
Maine: Betsy Bullard & Jim Strout
New Hampshire: Mark Patch
Vermont: Cindy Kayhart & Marion Seifert
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