01-05-12 National Western Awards 74 Scholarships…

The National Western Stock Show organizes and produces several events annually to benefit the National Western Scholarship Trust. This year, the Trust awarded 74 grants for the 2011-2012 school year. The grants range from $2500 to $6000 and are presented to students studying agriculture and medicine for practice in rural areas at colleges in Colorado and Wyoming. New recipients for 2011-2012 are..

01-05-12 Elisa Sagehorn Wins National Spokesperson for Agriculture Contest

            

Denny Kelly representing John Deere presents National Spokesperson for Agriculture winner, Elisa Sagehorn, from Colorado, with a plaque

Elisa Sagehorn was named the winner of the National Spokesperson for Agriculture Contest.  She competed against other state winners as part of the National Ag Communications Contest.  The Spokesperson program was part of the 45^th National Young Farmer Educational Association Institute held December 7-10 2011 in Kansas City, Missouri.

            She is the daughter or Keith and Diane Sagehorn from Holyoke, Colorado.

Elisa won the 2011 Colorado Spokesperson for Agriculture contest and received an expense paid trip to compete in the national contest to represent Colorado.

Elisa, is a 2008 graduate of Holyoke High School. She was very active in the Holyoke FFA Chapter. She has earned the chapter, state, and American Farmer degrees. She served as chapter president and the northeast district treasurer during her senior year. She earned a gold second place rating in job interview competition her senior year. She served on the Colorado FFA state officer team during the 2009-10 year as an executive committee member.

Elisa was a member of National Honor Society and served as secretary during the senior year. She was a representative on student council and Colorado FBLA District Vice President and a member of the Civic Conscious Committee. She won the American Legion Auxillary Citizenship Award in 2004 and 2008 and was recognized with the Colorado Dr. Martin Luther King Junior Humanitarian Award in 2008. She is also a National Society of High School Scholars member.

During high school, Elisa took college classes through Northeastern Junior College. Upon graduation from high school, she attended Dordt College in Iowa for one year. She then transferred to Colorado State University.

She has been a leader on the CSU campus. She is a member of the CSU Young Farmer/ ATA Chapter and won the Colorado Young Farmers Educational Association Spokesman for Agriculture award in 2011. Elisa is a National Collegiate Agriculture Ambassador, a CSU College of Agriculture Ambassador, a CSU Presidential Ambassador, and a member of Gamma Beta Phi.

            Elisa worked part time as a calf operations assistant with TransOva Genetics, LLC in Sioux Center, Iowa. During the summer of 2010 she worked as a communications intern with Colorado Farm Bureau. The past summer she worked as a research assistant/ intern with Syngenta in Vero Beach, Florida.

            She is a junior at Colorado State University majoring in agriculture education.

01-05-12 CSU Students Host Ag Adventure Exhibit at National Western Stock Show

FORT COLLINS - A Colorado State University student-run program that introduces elementary-aged children to the science of agriculture and the sources of their food returns this year to the National Western Stock Show in Denver. The Ag Adventure exhibit includes hands-on, interactive displays from a variety of commodity groups and trade organizations.

Collaboration on the exhibit includes the Colorado Department of Agriculture, Colorado Farm Bureau and commodity groups representing beef, dairy, sheep, wool, eggs, potatoes and vegetables, corn, grain, landscape and plants, and honey producers.

“This is a chance for our College of Ag students to work side by side with our industry partners. Not only will this expand our student’s working knowledge of agriculture, but it helps them network in an industry that they plan to work in,” said Nancy Irlbeck, associate dean in the College of Agricultural Sciences at Colorado State and adviser of the Ag Adventure exhibit.

Ag Adventure teaches school groups and other visitors about livestock production, crop production, animal husbandry, land stewardship and the “farm-to-plate” process through a series of hands-on activities.

The idea behind the exhibit is an outgrowth of an annual event in which CSU’s College of Agricultural Sciences participates with the Poudre School District in Fort Collins. Each fall, nearly 2,000 Poudre School District third-graders tour CSU’s Agricultural Research, Development and Education Center located north of Fort Collins.

The Ag Adventure exhibit at the National Western Stock Show will involve about 20,000 school-aged children from around the Denver metro area. Guided tours are offered during busy school days, but self-guided tours are also available during off-hours.

“This is designed to raise awareness of agriculture in everyday lives,” Irlbeck said. “Plus, it might spark an interest in agriculture in some of these kids.”

In all, about 70,000 people visited the exhibit last year.

The Ag Adventure exhibit is open daily from Jan. 7-22 during the 2012 National Western Stock Show. The exhibit is located on the third floor of the Hall of Education across from the Colorado State University booth at the National Western Complex, 4655 Humboldt St., Denver.

SOURCE

National Western Stock Show Cowboy Church January 8th…featuring Barry Ward

It’s that time of year again for the BEST OF THE WEST IN THE WEST..NATIONAL WESTERN STOCK SHOW IN DENVER, CO ~ Time: 10:00am.

Address: High Lonesome Ranch Centennial Room.

National Western Stock Show Address:‎ 4655 Humboldt St, Denver, CO 80216-2818 Expo Hall 3rd Floor (front part of the Hall of Education bldg)

or go to the webpage http://www.nationalwestern.com/directions-maps/ ~

Please join us THIS SUNDAY, JAN. 8 AT 10:00 AM for a special message by Fellowship of Christian Cowboys Board of Director, Cory Young, and music by the Bear.

01-05-12 *KSU News* Sjeklocha Honored as Beef Cattle Veterinarian of the Year

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Dave Sjeklocha, DVM, is the 2011 recipient of the Beef Cattle Veterinarian of the Year Award from the Beef Cattle Institute at Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

Honored at the 44th American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP) annual conference in St. Louis, Mo. Sjeklocha received the award for his contributions to the beef cattle industry and his involvement in AABP and the Academy of Veterinary Consultants (AVC).

Dave Sjeklocha grew up in Missouri and Iowa and developed an interest in veterinary medicine when his father began to incorporate artificial insemination into the management practices of a large cattle herd in Northwest Iowa. After gaining experience with heat detection, artificial insemination and bovine obstetrics at home with the guidance of his father, he decided to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. He earned a bachelor’s degree in animal sciences and industry and a doctorate of veterinary medicine at Kansas State University.

01-05-12 Gov. Hickenlooper appoints new county court judge in Arapahoe County

DENVER ­ Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012 — Gov. John Hickenlooper announced today the appointment of Cheryl Rowles-Stokes to serve as a county court judge in the 18^th Judicial District. Rowles-Stokes will fill a vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Ethan D. Feldman.

Rowles-Stokes, of Aurora, currently serves as the Chief Deputy District Attorney for the 18^th Judicial District and directs the Economic Crimes Unit, where she has served since 2001.

Previously, Rowles-Stokes was a human resources professional at High Speed Access Corp. and Rifkin & Associates. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Colorado Christian College, a master’s degree from Jones International University and a J.D. from the Strum College of Law at the University of Denver.

Rowles-Stokes’ judicial appointment is effective immediately.

 

 

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01-05-12 Colorado Boer Classic…TWO ABGA SHOWS IN 2012 & MORE!

Happy New Year to all!!  All of us would like to extend our appreciation for your support of the Colorado Boer Classic in 2011 and helping to make it a success.  Even though it’s just the start of the year, we invite you to put the the 5th Annual Colorado Boer Classic Sale and Show on your radar for the upcoming Labor Day Weekend.  We are planning an exciting event, and here are some additions/changes you can expect to see:

1)  TWO, (count ‘em, two!!), ABGA shows!!  Day 1 show on Sat. Sept. 1 following the sale, Day 2 will be Sunday  morning, Sept. 2.  Judges will be Reggie Phillips and Ron Dilley, respectively.  Even more exciting is that the Colorado State Fair has gone to a 2 show ABGA format which means that you can show 4 days, 4 shows, under 4 different judges!!  (Colorado State Fair Day 1, Aug. 30, 2012, Day 2- Aug. 31–Colorado Boer Classic Sept. 1 & 2!!)  Mark your calendar now to spend your Labor Day Show Holiday in Colorful Colorado!!!

 2) WIN IT AND SPIN IT!!  Win your show and spin it into an opportunity to participate in next year’s sale!!  Exhibitors of the Overall Grand Champions at the 2012 CBC will be eligible to consign a lot from the same division as the win the following year.

      Examples:.–Grand Champion Percentage Doe = Percentage Sale Doe in 2013

                           Grand Champion Fullblood Doe =  Fullblood Sale Doe in  2013

                           Grand Champion Buck = Fullblood Sale Buck in 2013

Winners from both days are eligible, thus a total of 6 guest lots will be available.  Multiple wins by a single exhibitor = multiple sale opportunities.  Goats must have ABGA papers and winning exhibitor agrees to all sale terms and conditions.

We are also including sponsor, participation, and vendor openings at this year’s show, so contact us with your product, service, or idea!! 

01-05-12 NCBA: Cattle Industry Convention Attracts Topnotch Entertainment

Nashville Stars Set to Entertain Cattlemen

WASHINGTON (Jan. 5, 2012) – The 2012 Cattle Industry Convention and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Trade Show Feb. 1-4, 2012, in Nashville, Tenn., has more in store for participants than one may expect. In addition to unparalleled educational opportunities, convention goers will be entertained by country music legends and some of Nashville’s most recognized talent. NCBA President Bill Donald said establishing NCBA policy positions and providing tools and information to help cattle producers become more profitable are NCBA’s top priorities at convention but emphasized the importance of having a good time.

“We work long and hard at convention but we never fail to have a good time. Nashville is home to some of the best entertainment in the country and convention participants will have several opportunities to capitalize on all the city has to offer,” said Donald. “This is definitely a convention where the entire family can attend and have a blast.”

On Thurs., Feb 2, 2012, convention participants will take part in a Honky Tonk Party, sponsored by Boehringher Ingelheim Vetmedica, at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel featuring bluegrass favorites the Cumberland Highlanders and Ronnie Reno, sponsored by RFD-TV.  The following day, Bayer Animal Health is sponsoring a Cowboy’s Night at the Opry and Barn Dance, where country music stars including Josh Turner, The Oakridge Boys, Charley Pride, Little Jimmy Dickens and more will take the stage at the Grand Ole Opry. Local artists will keep attendees entertained throughout the week on various stages around the NCBA Trade Show. Donald said the event promises to be an experience that will be talked about for years to come.

It is not too late for cattlemen and women to register for the 2012 Cattle Industry Convention. Registration can be completed online at www.beefusa.org or by calling 303-694-2851. Individuals who have already registered but want to add optional events, such as the night at the Grand Ole Opry should contact the meetings department at meetings@beef.org or call 303-694-0305. Tickets can also be purchased onsite in Nashville at registration.

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The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has represented America’s cattle producers since 1898, preserving the heritage and strength of the industry through education and public policy.  As the largest association of cattle producers, NCBA works to create new markets and increase demand for beef.  Efforts are made possible through membership contributions. To join, contact NCBA at 1-866-BEEF-USA or membership@beef.org.

01-05-12 Gov. Hickenlooper announces appointments to the Board of Trustees for Adams State College

DENVER ­Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012 — Gov. John Hickenlooper today announced appointments to the Board of Trustees for Adams State College.

The board makes policy for the school and oversees its operation. The appointments must be confirmed by the Colorado Senate. The members appointed for terms expiring Dec. 31, 2015:

·         LeRoy J. Salazar of Manassa.

·         Valentin “Val” Vigil of Thornton.

For more information on Boards and Commissions, visit www.colorado.gov/governor or e-mail boards@state.co.us.

 

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READ the NAFB’s National Ag News as heard inside the BARN for January 4th, 2012

CLICK HERE to listen to TODAY's BARN Morning Ag News with Brian Allmer...

Sponsored by the American Farm Bureau Federation

“District Judge to Hear Case Against Monsanto”

District Court Judge Naomi Buchwald will hear oral arguments on January 31^st in the case of the Organic Seed Growers and Trade Association VS Monsanto.  Buchwald serves the Southern District of New York and will decide on Monsanto’s motion to dismiss the Association’s case. The landmark lawsuit, filed in March 2011, challenges the validity of Monsanto’s transgenic/GMO patents and seeks court protection for family farmers who may become contaminated by Monsanto seed.

Jim Gerritsen, President of lead plaintiff, OSGATA, says – last August we submitted our written rebuttal and it made clear that Monsanto’s motion was without merit. Our legal team, from the Public Patent Foundation, is looking forward to orally presenting our position. Gerritsen adds – we are anxious that this case go to trial as soon as possible so that our innocent farmers may receive Court protection.

The 83 family farmers, small and family owned seed businesses, and agricultural organizations comprising the organic plaintiff group represent over 300-thousand individuals.

**************READ THE NAFB AG NEWS BELOW**************************

“Farm Bureau Members to Focus on Revenue Loss”

American Farm Bureau members will be asked to reconsider the organization’s position on several issues expected to be addressed in the next farm bill when the organization begins its annual meeting in Hawaii this Sunday. According to DTN Ag Policy Editor Chris Clayton, – Farm Bureau’s present position went largely against the grain, – when the Super Committee failed to get a deal done in November.

01-05-12 *USDA NEWS* We Can’t Wait: The White House Announces Federal and Private Sector Commitments to Provide Employment Opportunities for Nearly 180,000 Youth

Today, the White House announced Summer Jobs+, a new call to action for businesses, non-profits, and government to work together to provide pathways to employment for low-income and disconnected youth in the summer of 2012. The President proposed $1.5 billion for high-impact summer jobs and year-round employment for low-income youth ages 16-24 in the American Jobs Act as part of the Pathways Back to Work fund. When Congress failed to act, the Federal government and private sector came together to commit to creating nearly 180,000 employment opportunities for low-income youth in the summer of 2012, with a goal of reaching 250,000 employment opportunities by the start of summer, at least 100,000 of which will be placements in paid jobs and internships. Today’s announcement is the latest in a series of executive actions the Obama Administration is taking to strengthen the economy and move the country forward because we can’t wait for Congress to act.

“America’s young people face record unemployment, and we need to do everything we can to make sure they’ve got the opportunity to earn the skills and a work ethic that come with a job.  It’s important for their future, and for America’s.  That’s why I proposed a summer jobs program for youth in the American Jobs Act – a plan that Congress failed to pass.  America’s youth can’t wait for Congress to act.  This is an all-hands-on-deck moment.  That’s why today, we’re launching Summer Jobs+, a joint initiative that challenges business leaders and communities to join my Administration in providing hundreds of thousands of summer jobs for America’s youth,” said President Obama.

“While young people who are currently disconnected from school or work are not contributing to our economy, we see these young people as ‘Opportunity Youth’ – because of the untapped potential they bring to the Nation.  Today, the White House challenged all sectors to go all-in and work together in creating pathways to youth employment.  Summer jobs are an important step – and to stay on the path to success, Opportunity Youth need social supports and access to relevant education, mentoring and training.  This spring, the White House Council for Community Solutions will participate in community discussions nationwide to learn from best efforts by youth, families, government, business, educators, and nonprofits to connect young people to meaningful career opportunities,” said Patty Stonesifer, Chair of the White House Council for Community Solutions (WHCCS).