Archive for American Jersey Cattle Association

National Jersey Leadership Announced: Key Officers and Directors Elected at 2024 AJCA and NAJ Annual Meetings

Meet the newly appointed leaders of the American Jersey Cattle Association and National All-Jersey Inc. Who are the influential figures driving the future of USJersey?

The Board of Directors of the American Jersey Cattle Association for 2024-25 is pictured following the 156th Annual Meeting in Springfield, Mass., on June 22. Pictured, front row, from left: Rebecca Ferry, Johnstown, N.Y.; Neal Smith, Executive Secretary & CEO; President Alan Chittenden, Schodack Landing, N.Y.; Vice President Joel Albright, Willard, Ohio; second row: Donna Phillips, Newton, Wis.; Ralph Frerichs, LaGrange, Texas; Joe Vanderfeltz, Lawton, Pa.; Garry Hansen, Mulino, Ore.; John Maxwell, Donahue, Iowa; Ted DeMent, Kenney, Ill.; Tyler Boyd, Hilmar, Calif.; and Jason Johnson, Northwood, N.H. Not pictured: Cornell Kasbergen, Tulare, Calif., and Kevin Lutz, Lincolnton, N.C.

Heritage meets innovation at the annual meetings of the American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) and National All-Jersey Inc. (NAJ) on June 21 and 22, 2024, in Springfield, Mass. These crucial events go beyond routine; they elect new leaders and shape the Jersey cattle industry’s future. Gathered are top minds and dedicated individuals ready to share insights, celebrate achievements, and plan. Please stick with us for key takeaways and new leadership appointments shaping the upcoming year.

Alan Chittenden’s Third Term: A Testament to Legacy and Leadership in the Jersey Cattle Industry 

Alan Chittenden was re-elected to his third one-year term as President of the American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) on June 24, 2024. As a fourth-generation breeder at Dutch Hollow Farms LLC in Schodack Landing, N.Y., Alan oversees a herd of 900 Registered Jerseys with his family. Their farm utilizes REAP services like registration and milk marketing support. Dutch Hollow Farms has been active in the Jersey Journal and has contributed to Equity for nearly 50 years. 

The Chittenden family’s legacy is well-respected. 2012, they earned the AJCA Master Breeder award for their superior breeding practices. Alan has also held notable roles, such as General Chair of The All American Jersey Shows & Sales in 2018 and Chair of The All American Sales Committee in 2016. His experience includes six years as AJCA Director from the Second District (2014-2020). 

Alan Chittenden’s reelection ensures continued stability and progress for the AJCA and the Jersey cattle industry, backed by his experience and proven leadership.

Outstanding Leadership and Dedication Among AJCA Directors The AJCA Directors, with their outstanding leadership and dedication, continue to demonstrate their commitment to the Jersey cattle industry. From Northwood, N.H., Jason Johnson was re-elected to his second three-year term as AJCA Director from the First District. Jason is a fourth-generation dairy farmer with a rich heritage in dairy farming and a degree in dairy management from the University of New Hampshire. He works as a farmer relationship manager with Stonyfield Organic, overseeing direct supply milk procurement, animal welfare, milk quality, and sustainability programs for the northeast milk supply. 

Alongside his wife, Heather, and children, Regan, Ryleigh, and Asher, Jason breeds Johnsonacres Jerseys. He also serves as vice president of the New England Jersey Breeders Association. He contributes to the Development, Information Technology, and Identification committees while being part of the National Dairy Shrine board of directors. 

Joe Vanderfeltz, of Lawton, Pa., was re-elected to his second term as Director from the Third District. He operates VanFel-JM Dairy with his wife, Melinda, and sons, Kyle and Corey, milking 220 Jersey and 180 Holstein cows

The Vanderfeltz family manages around 700 acres of corn and alfalfa. Their herd is enrolled in REAP and boasts a 2023 herd average of 17,761 lbs. milk, 845 lbs. fat, and 680 lbs. protein on 153 lactations. Recognized for their excellence, they received the AJCA Young Breeder Award in 2003. Joe serves on the Breed Improvement and Finance committees and chairs the AJCA-NAJ Annual Meeting planning committee. 

Kevin Lutz, from Lincolnton, N.C., was elected as AJCA Director from the Fifth District, succeeding retiring director Bradley Taylor. Lutz runs Treasure Chest Jerseys with his family, maintaining a 110-cow Registered Jersey herd enrolled on REAP, integrating registration, Equity milk marketing support, type appraisal, and performance programs. 

His involvement with the AJCA includes serving on the Type Advisory Committee and past committee roles for The All-American Open Show and Sale. Kevin has judged The All American Jersey Show and the National Jersey Jug Futurity twice and officiated at national shows in Australia, Argentina, Ecuador, and Peru. He is also a North Carolina Jersey Cattle Association director and has held leadership roles with Southern States Cooperative and the Lincoln Soil and Water Conservation District. 

Ralph Frerichs, of LaGrange, Texas, was re-elected to a second three-year term as AJCA Director from the Ninth District. A seasoned leader, Ralph served on the AJCA Board from 2009-2015, including roles as vice president and chair of the Development Committee. He currently serves on the Finance and Development committees. 

Alongside his wife Faith, brother Robert, and son Neal, Ralph manages Frerichs Dairy Inc. This operation features 190 Registered Jersey cows and includes the Jersey Barnyard tourist attraction and the Texas Jersey Cheese Company, known for its all-natural, handmade Jersey cheese.

Meet the 2024-25 Committee Chairs: Pillars of Excellence from Coast to Coast The 2024-25 Committee Chairs, hailing from different parts of the nation, are acknowledged as pillars of excellence in the Jersey cattle industry. For the 2024-25 year, the chairs of the standing committees are dedicated professionals from across the nation: 

  • Cornell Kasbergen from Tulare, Calif., will lead the Finance Committee.
  • Joel Albright from Willard, Ohio, has been appointed chair of the Breed Improvement Committee.
  • Garry Hansen from Mulino, Ore., will head the Development Committee.
  • Donna Phillips from Newton, Wis., will oversee the Information Technology and Identification Committee.

John Kokoski Re-Elected as NAJ President: A Legacy of Leadership and Dedication

John Kokoski was re-elected as president by the Board of Directors for National All-Jersey Inc. (NAJ) on June 21, 2024, underscoring his longstanding dedication and pivotal role in the organization. Kokoski, a member of the NAJ Board since 2007, operates Mapleline Farm LLC with his family, featuring a 135-cow Registered Jersey herd enrolled on REAP. They also run a dairy plant that processes and distributes Jersey milk products. Kokoski has served as a director of the Massachusetts Cooperative Milk Producers Federation and on the New England Dairy Promotion Board for over 25 years. 

Jason Cast was elected Vice President of National All-Jersey Inc., succeeding James Huffard. Cast owns and operates JJC Jerseys with his wife and six children and has maintained a REAP-enrolled herd since 2013. His election signals a promising continuation of effective leadership within NAJ. Cast’s commitment to quality and sustainable dairy farming practices has significantly impacted the community.

Bradley Taylor Joins NAJ Board: A Seasoned Leader Enhances the Team

The NAJ Board welcomes Bradley Taylor as Director from District Five. From Booneville, Miss., Taylor operates Taylor Jersey Farm Inc. with his family. Their 120-cow Registered Jersey herd is part of REAP, highlighting their commitment to quality. Taylor has a rich history of leadership, having served as Finance Chair and on the Joint Operations Committee for the AJCA Board. His experience and dedication make him a solid asset to the NAJ Board.

The Bottom Line

The future of the USJersey organizations looks bright under the newly elected leadership. The Annual Meetings provided a perfect mix of continuity and fresh perspectives, vital for America’s evolving Jersey cattle industry. With Alan Chittenden’s reelection as AJCA President, his experienced leadership remains trusted. Leaders like Jason Johnson and Kevin Lutz exemplify dedication and expertise across different districts. The reappointments of Joe Vanderfeltz and Ralph Frerichs offer a solid foundation of wisdom and innovation. Additionally, John Kokoski and Jason Cast, in critical roles for National All-Jersey Inc., ensure steady guidance with strategies that benefit herders and the Jersey breed. 

The takeaway is clear: these leaders will play pivotal roles ahead. Their collective experience and commitment are inspiring and essential for a prosperous future. Your active participation is crucial on this journey. Engage with your leaders, voice your concerns, and celebrate their achievements. Together, we can shape the future of the Jersey cattle industry. 

Key Takeaways:

  • Alan Chittenden was elected to his third one-year term as President of AJCA.
  • Jason Johnson was re-elected to his second three-year term as AJCA Director from the First District.
  • Joe Vanderfeltz was re-elected to his second term as Director from the Third District.
  • Kevin Lutz was elected as AJCA Director from the Fifth District, succeeding Bradley Taylor.
  • Ralph Frerichs was re-elected to a second three-year term as AJCA Director from the Ninth District.
  • John Kokoski was re-elected as President of NAJ.
  • Jason Cast was elected as Vice President of NAJ, succeeding James Huffard.
  • Bradley Taylor was elected for a four-year term as Director from District Five to the NAJ board.

Summary:

The American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) and National All-Jersey Inc. (NAJ) held their annual meetings in Springfield, Mass., on June 21 and 22, 2024, to elect new leaders and shape the future of the Jersey cattle industry. Alan Chittenden, a fourth-generation breeder at Dutch Hollow Farms LLC, was re-elected to his third one-year term as President of the AJCA. The AJCA Directors, Jason Johnson, Joe Vanderfeltz, and Kevin Lutz, continue to demonstrate their commitment to the industry. Johnson oversees direct supply milk procurement, animal welfare, milk quality, and sustainability programs for the northeast milk supply. Vanderfeltz operates VanFel-JM Dairy with his wife, Melinda, and sons, Kyle, and Corey, and milks 220 Jersey and 180 Holstein cows. Lutz runs Treasure Chest Jerseys with his family and has served on the Type Advisory Committee and past committee roles for The All-American Open Show and Sale. Ralph Frerichs, a seasoned leader, has been re-elected as AJCA Director for a second three-year term. The 2024-25 Committee Chairs are dedicated professionals from across the nation, including Cornell Kasbergen from Tulare, Calif., Joel Albright from Willard, Ohio, Gary Hansen from Mulino, Ore., and Donna Phillips from Newton, Wis.

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Brenda Snow Receives Prestigious AJCA-NAJ Award for Advancing Jersey Breed and Dairy Industry

Learn how Brenda Snow’s dedication changed the Jersey breed and dairy industry. Interested in her journey and impact? Discover her prestigious AJCA-NAJ award.

Brenda Snow of Brookfield, Vt., has been honored with the prestigious Award for Meritorious Service by the American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) and National All-Jersey Inc. (NAJ). This highly esteemed award, presented annually, recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the Jersey breed and its owners. It celebrates those who have significantly advanced the Jersey breed in the United States through research, education, development, marketing, or other critical activities within the dairy industry. Brenda’s receipt of this award is a testament to her dedication and notable contributions to the Jersey breed and its community. 

“The love breeders in her area had for her was always evident, and Brenda strove every day to keep that trust and commitment,” wrote Herby D. Lutz, a former JMS manager and current sire analyst with Select Sires Inc. 

Brenda Snow’s work was not just a job but a mission. Her dedication and the profound impact she has had on the Jersey breed and the community of breeders and dairy farmers make this esteemed award so fitting for her.

Brenda Snow: A Pillar of Dedication and Transformation in the Jersey Breed and Dairy Industry 

Brenda Snow’s career is a testament to her unwavering passion for the Jersey breed and the dairy industry. Over three decades as an area representative, she fulfilled administrative roles and actively engaged at the grassroots level. Her efforts to expand markets for Registered Jerseys and establish significant Jersey herds on the West Coast were driven by her deep love for the breed and commitment to its growth. For instance, she played a crucial role in the relocation of production-bred Jerseys from the Northeast to new homes across the country, a strategic move that significantly bolstered Jersey Marketing Services (JMS) and laid the groundwork for future herd developments. 

At Sno-Krest Farm in Brookfield, Vermont, Brenda, her husband Wes, and their son Jarrett managed a highly respected herd of Registered Jerseys. Their herd, recognized for its quality, often fetched premium prices at consignment sales and set an example of best practices in dairy farming

Brenda’s influence extended beyond marketing, sales, genetics, and animal husbandry. Her dedication and hard work improved the livelihoods of Jersey breeders. They drove the growth of the Jersey breed in the United States. Her legacy is not just in her significant contributions to the industry but also in her lasting impact on the community of breeders and dairy farmers, who continue to benefit from her work.

Brenda Snow’s Pioneering Contributions to the Jersey Breed’s Expansion and Market Development 

Brenda Snow’s contributions to the Jersey breed’s growth are significant and monumental. She played a crucial role in expanding the market for Registerbreed’seys, strategically moving production-bred Jerseys from the Northeast to new homes across the country. This significantly bolstered Jersey Marketing Services (JMS) and laid the groundwork for future herd developments. 

One of Brenda’s achievements was building the large West Coast Jersey herds by transporting potloads of Jerseys to new facilities. This move supported the growing cheese industry by ensuring a steady supply of high-quality milk, cementing Jersey’s breeds’ reputation for superior dairy output. 

BrBrenda’s foresight in placing Jersey replacements in commercial venues helped catalyze the brbreed’s growth in component pricing markets. Notably, over $1.1 million worth of Jersey replacements were sold through the Vermont State Sale and New England Spring Sale in 2008, providing substantial financial uplift to dairy producers

Her strategic contributions to the Jersey Breed include expanding market reach and enhancing the genetic pool. Brenda’s foresight in placing Jersey replacements in commercial venues and facilitating the sale and distribution of top-tier genetics was a testament to her leadership and vision. Her strategic decisions continue to shape the breed’s future, instilling confidence in the industry and breeders alike.

Brenda’s monumental contributions to the expansion and development of the Jersey breed are monumental in expanding the Jersey breed and supporting owners across the Northeast. Her three-decade tenure as an area representative saw her working with Jersey Marketing Services (JMS) to relocate production-bred Registered Jerseys, crucially filling new facilities on the West Coast to supply the burgeoning cheese industry. 

By consistently connecting breeders and buyers, Brenda ensured high-quality Jerseys found homes where their genetic potential thrived. Her efforts helped scale tie-up sales significantly, marketing thousands of Jersey replacements to dairy producers, especially after the Federal OrdBrenda’sm. 

Brenda’s keen insights and dedication laid a foundation for the sustained growth of Jersey herds, particularly integrating them into West Coast dairy ecosystems. Her work was pivotal in enabling Jerseys to thrive in diverse environments, contributing significantly to the national dairy landscape. Snow’s Brenda Snow’s Unparalleled Accomplishments in Marketing and SSnow’ Brenda Snow’s marketing and sales accomplishments significantly shaped the breed’s reputation. Transforming tie-up sales into major commercial venues, she facilitated the sale of Jersey replacements tailored to component pricing markets post-Federal Order Reform. 

Her standout achievement includes the 2008 Vermont State and New England Spring Sales, where combined sales exceeded $1.1 million, showcasing her ability to nurture relationships and identify market opportunities

Brenda’s efforts extended to the breed’s geographical reach. Through relentless hard work and strategic planning, she transferred production-bred Registered Jerseys from the Northeast to the West Coast, benefiting a growing cheese industry and establishing economic benefits for breeders. 

Her eye for quality marketers and acumen built robust channels supporting and enriching breeders. Brenda’s efforts empowered breeders with immediate sales outcomes and long-term growth opportunities, solidifying her legacy in the industry’s marketing and sales sector. 

Her eye for quality markers and acumen built robust channels supporting and enriching breeders. Brenda’s efforts empowered breeders with immediate sales outcomes and long-term growth opportunities, solidifying her legacy in the industry’s marketing and sales sector.  Brenda Snow’s expertise in elite Jersey genetics marks one of her most pivotal contributions to the breed. With a sharp eye for high-caliber cattle and a profound grasp of genetic potential, Brenda helped breeders leverage elite genetics that left an enduring legacy. Noteworthy examples include Molly Brook Fascinator Flower and Pearlmont Impuls Daffy, whose progeny have significantly advanced the breed.

Molly Brook Fascinator Flower’s descendants have an international presence, thanks to Brenda’s meticulous selection. Pearlmont Impuls Daffy became a genomic sensation after her 2008 All American Jersey Sale, showcasing Brenda’s skill in promoting superior genetic stock. Both cows were finalists in the 2015 Jersey Journal Great Cow Contest, highlighting their exceptional contributions. Brenda Snow has elevated the breed’s genetic diversity and global standing through these strategic efforts.

Beyond Professional MilestoSnow’srenda Snow’s Unyielding Commitment and Grace in the Dairy Industry 

Beyond her professional know-how, Snow’s relentless drive and determination distinguish her as a dedicated figure in the dairy industry. Her commitment to the Jersey breed and its community showcases a customer-centric approach, conducting business with a unique blend of grit and grace. Her unwavering dedication, integrity, and respect for the Jersey breed and its community have been the guiding principles of her career, earning her the trust and admiration of breeders and dairy farmers alike. 

“The love breeders in her area had for her was always evident, and Brenda strove every day to keep that trust and “commitment,” reflected Herby D. Lutz, a former JMS manager and current sire analyst with Select Sires Inc. Sara Barlass, who succeeded Bre” da, noted, “Brenda had made a huge impact on a lot of breeders, especially women-owned and small herds. These herds were pushed to new levels thanks to her effort and “compassion.” 

Colleagues and breeders admired Brenda for her expertise and kindness. Jennifer McReynolds of Lucky Hill Farm “L.P. shared, “Brenda quickly became a trusted colleague whom I could turn to for Jersey breeding and marketing advice and general dairy industry” knowledge.” David Norman of Normandell Farms praised her work ethic and eye for quality cattle”, stating, “She was one of the first to arrive to check papers, feed, and care for the heifers, sometimes totaling 300 head, and followed through until all” were sold.” 

These testimonials show Brenda’s reputation as a dedicated, trustworthy figure who consistently went above and beyond to serve breeders and the Jersey community.

From Humble Beginnings to Educational and Professional AscSnow’srenda Snow’s Early Journey in the Dairy Industry

Before making her mark in expanding the Jersey breed, Brenda Snow’s journey was defined by rigorous education and early industry experience. Starting farm work at eight and fully engaging in dairy farming at 16, Brenda’s passion for the industry was evident. In 1984, she earned an associate degree in dairy management from Vermont Technical College and a bachelor’s degree in dairy science from Virginia Tech.

Between degrees, Brenda gained crucial experience managing and marketing cattle at Lemax Farm and Howacres Farm in Vermont. His role as a “herdsman” before the term “herdsperson” existed highlighted her pioneering spirit. 

After completing her education, Brenda joined the artificial insemination sector as a district manager and sales development technician for ABS. She taught A.I. techniques and the company’s mating program across several regions, laying the foundation for her influential roles in breed promotion. Maurice E. Core’s Vision: The Catalyst for Brenda Snow’s Pivotal Role in Market Development

Brenda’s journey took a pivotal turn when Maurice E. Core, the executive secretary of the American Jersey Cattle Club (AJCC), hired her as an area representative in July 1990. This role marked the start of her influential tenure with the AJCA-NAJ. She was tasked with developing markets for elite and surplus Jersey breeding stock to enhance farm income for breeders across the Northeast, including Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont. 

Brenda’s mission remained consistent throughout her career: to drive economic success for Jersey breeders through strategic market development. She blended her dairy farming knowledge with a commitment to her clients, working to connect breeders with lucrative opportunities and facilitate smooth cattle transactions. 

Her notable success includes transporting production-bred Registered Jerseys from the Northeast to new homes nationwide, contributing to large Jersey herds on the West Coast. Brenda’s market analysis skills and foresight in industry trends allowed her to meet the demands of the cheese industry. Additionally, she was instrumental in converting tie-up sales into commercial venues, marketing Jersey replacements by the thousands to dairy producers adapting to new component pricing markets after Federal Order Reform.

Architect of Mentorship and Community in Jersey Breeding 

Brenda Snow’s mentorship in the Jersey breeding community has been transformative. Her extensive knowledge, unwavering dedication, and genuine care made her an invaluable guide. Sara Barlass, Brenda’s mentee, noted, “When I joined in 2007, Brenda had greatly impacted breeders, especially women-owned and small herds. These herds reached new heights thanks to her effort and compassion.”

Another mentee, Jennifer McReynolds, shared, “Fresh out of college at my first herdsman job, Brenda’s kind demeanor and Jersey genetics knowledge quickly made her a trusted colleague. She provided advice on breeding, marketing, and the dairy industry.” 

Brenda’s mentorship fostered professional growth and a network of trusted relationships. Barlass emphasized Brenda’s philosophy: “Selling animals is serving the Jersey customer.” Brenda’s service-oriented approach helped breeders navigate harsh market conditions and succeed. Snow’s legacy as a mentor will be remembered for her ability to lift others and give them the tools to thrive. Her contributions have enriched the Jersey breeding community for generations to come.

Honors and Accolades: CelebraSnow’srenda Snow’s Distinguished Contributions to Jersey Breeding

  • Senior Breeder Award from the Vermont Jersey Breeders Association (1999)
  • Harold “Tuffy” Wright Distinguished Service Award from the Vermont Jersey Breeders Association (2012)
  • Boss Turner Distinguished Service Award from the New England Jersey Breeders Association (1999)

The Bottom Line

Brenda Snow’s career is a testament to her unwavering dedication to the Jersey breed and dairy industry. Over three decades as an area representative, she significantly contributed to the growth and transformation of the breed by expanding markets for Registered Jerseys. Brenda played a crucial role in enhancing both commercial success for breeders and the genetic quality of herds through her expertise in selection and marketing. 

The American Jersey Cattle Association and National All-Jersey Inc.’s Award for Meritorious Service highlights Brenda’s exceptional impact. Her pioneering marketing, sales, and genetic improvement efforts have left a lasting mark on the industry. Brenda’s legacy is evident in her accolades, the thriving businesses, and the enriched lives of Jersey breeders she supported. Her enduring influence and commitment to excellence will be remembered for generations.

Key Takeaways:

  • Brenda Snow received the prestigious Award for Meritorious Service from the American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) and National All-Jersey Inc. (NAJ).
  • The honor recognizes living individuals who have significantly advanced the Jersey breed and the livelihood of Jersey owners in the United States.
  • Brenda’s career spanned over three decades, where she served as an area representative for the national Jersey organizations, covering a vast territory in the Northeast.
  • She played a crucial role in the expansion of Jersey Marketing Services (JMS), facilitating the movement of production-bred Registered Jerseys across the country.
  • Her efforts were instrumental in building large West Coast herds and supporting the burgeoning cheese industry.
  • Distinguished by her dedication and perseverance, Brenda made extensive contributions to the marketing and breeding programs, benefiting both commercial and elite breeders.
  • Brenda’s innate ability to recognize high-quality Jerseys and foster relationships between breeders ensured financial growth and stability for many Jersey owners.
  • Her commitment extended beyond professional duties, reflecting her personal belief in the Jersey breed and her genuine care for the breeders she served.

Summary:

Brenda Snow, a dedicated figure in the dairy industry, has been awarded the prestigious Award for Meritorious Service by the American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) and National All-Jersey Inc. This award recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the Jersey breed and its owners, such as research, education, development, marketing, or other critical activities within the dairy industry. Snow’s career is a testament to her unwavering passion for the Jersey breed and the dairy industry. Over three decades, she fulfilled administrative roles and actively engaged at the grassroots level, expanding markets for Registered Jerseys and establishing significant Jersey herds on the West Coast. Her strategic decisions continue to shape the breed’s future, instilling confidence in the industry and breeders alike. Her marketing and sales accomplishments significantly shaped the breed’s reputation, transforming tie-up sales into major commercial venues and facilitating the sale of Jersey replacements tailored to component pricing markets post-Federal Order Reform.

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CASSY KRULL – Success without a Stopwatch.

2013ectHave you ever suddenly realized that your name is being called over a public address system?  Isn’t that the most amazing heart pounding…adrenalin rushing experience? Well, that is exactly what happened to Cassy Krull of Lake Mills Wisconsin at World Dairy Expo when she heard these words.

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“The 2013 winner of the Merle Howard Award is Cassy Krull”

Like others in the large crowd, Cassy was trying to figure out whose biography was being read as the 10th winner of the Merle Howard Award. (Read more: Wisconsin’s Cassy Krull Wins 2013 Merle Howard Award)  “I had NO idea I was going to receive this award. My boyfriend Bradley and I went to sit in the top part of the coliseum to be able to view the show ring. Not knowing why he wanted to sit in the lower sections, I insisted on sitting higher. He had gotten a phone call the night before to make sure I would be there for the Four-Year Old class at the International Holstein Show. As they began reading the background, my eyes welled up with tears after realizing it was me that they had selected. I ran down the stairs of the coliseum crying and trying to breathe and get there before they finished the biography. I remember looking into the crowd and hearing the applause and getting goose bumps all over. It was the most amazing feeling ever!”

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“I still cannot even believe I was chosen”

Everyone asks Cassy what it feels like and she answers with endearing honesty. ”Winning the Merle Howard Award is by far the most humbling achievement I have received. To receive such an honorable award helps put all the hard work into perspective. I like to watch the presentation every year to see who they recognize. Little did I know I would ever be able to stand next to the other amazing recipients of the Merle Howard Award. I am truly honored and blessed to have been selected for this milestone achievement in my life.”

Special Thanks. Appreciation to Cassy’s Crew.

Cassy feels quite strongly that she has been blessed by the encouragement she is surrounded by.  “I would like to thank my family first for all the support they have given me, and constructive criticism to help push me further.” Breed associations have earned her thanks as well. “The Wisconsin Holstein Association, American Jersey Cattle Association and the Red and White Dairy Cattle Association are important to me for giving me all the opportunities I have had in my time of being a junior member.” There is another group who also rates special Cassy consideration.  “I want to thank my boyfriend Bradley Griswold and his family for supporting me and being there for me through many of my life changing events.” Cassy generously recognizes the importance of others in her life.  “A big thank you to all my friends, supporters, believers, and the people who have told me I couldn’t.  They all helped me push through and succeed. I am truly thankful for everyone who has been there for me and gotten me to where I am today. THANK YOU!”

The Krull Family Circle of Influence

More than most of us realize we are influenced by those around us.  For Cassy Krull those positive experiences in her life started right at home.  “My parents have been the ones who I have looked up to my whole life. My dad, being active in the state and national Holstein Associations, showed me that being involved and good leadership is something that helps you build your time management skills, public speaking, responsibility, and leadership.  Also he showed me how to work hard, as he had an amazing work ethic. We would work hard to make sure we got everything done and would end our days racing back to the house, playing basketball or softball, racing four wheelers, or throwing someone in the pool. My dad showed me the way with a lot of things in life but my mom has been along side helping me as well.”  Cassy explains what her Mom means to her.  “She was the one helping me be on time to events, getting me more involved in 4-H and FFA, and teaching me to never give up on what I want. She has stood by me with my decisions and pushed me to be successful.”

Many Awards. Full Calendar.

cassy krull - jersey queenWe sometimes ask ourselves what is most special about receiving an award.  Is it the award itself… or the recognition for the hard work that earned it? Cassy is no stranger to receiving awards and declares, “This award is definitely a highlight of my career!” for recognizing her abilities in fitting and showing.  Her dairy passion has also led her to success as the 2011-2012 National Jersey Queen, as well as a being a member of the Wisconsin Junior Activities Committee, and being the Junior Chair for the National Red and White Convention in 2014. For Cassy the process is part of what makes the accomplishments so special.  “The National Jersey Queen title was one of my biggest life goals. I ran for the National Jersey Queen title the year before I received it and was not selected, but I wanted it and hoped I could get it if I tried again. I was determined that I was going to represent the breed I fell in love with at age two. The American Jersey Cattle Association has given me numerous opportunities that I have been fortunate to take advantage of.”

Working hard Works for Cassy!

It seems that when “working” is involved in the goal then it’s almost guaranteed that Cassy will be enthusiastic.  She was part of the Wisconsin Holstein Association Junior Activities Committee and explains what it meant to her. “I love working with young people and this title allows me to do just that. I am responsible for the Southeast region of the state, where I travel to shows and other events bringing all Wisconsin Holstein Juniors together.”  Cassy doesn’t set limits on age or organization and gives her best wherever she gets the opportunity.  “I am proud of being the Junior Chair of the National Red and White Cattle Convention in 2014. I am excited to work with the board members and create an amazing convention right in Wisconsin. I enjoyed my time working with the Red and White Association this last summer as the intern and continue to move forward with helping with the convention this coming summer.”

Cassy’s Keys to Success – Do not stop.  Push on.  Keep Trying.

Although her calendar is full, there is no end date determining when Cassy Krull must reach all her goals.  She advises others. “Stay true to what you believe in. If you have a goal in life, go for it and do not stop until you achieve the goal. Push yourself to be what you want to be. Think of my example in wanting to be National Jersey Queen, I did not get it the first time I tried, but I did not give up and I tried again. I have always been told, “If you do something you love, you will never work a day in your life.” To me that is not far from the truth. I love working with good cattle and good people so it is easy to go and do it.”  For the near future, Cassy hopes to find an internship for the summer of 2014.  “I would like to gain more life skills by working away from the farm. Understanding different aspects of agriculture can only provide benefits to my knowledge when farming in the future.”

The Bullvine Bottom Line

Hard work earned Cassy Krull the opportunity to win the Merle Howard Award.  Hearing her name announced was a thrill but long before her name was inscribed on the trophy, she put her own name on the work lists for dairy fitting, showing and passion. The Bullvine and all your friends urge you to keep going and growing and one day you will be the only one surprised – again — to learn that you have arrived at that special dairy place where  “Everybody knows your name” … Cassy Krull!”  Congratulations!

 

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