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Were to start. I would first like
to thank everyone evolved in putting on the Western National
Angus Futurity. Without the help of these people this show would
not happen. From Jim Danekas and his staff to all of the
volunteers; I would like to send a personal thank you. For all
who purchased Draw Down Tickets, sponsored classes and division
winners, donated semen or items to the Auxiliary Raffle- Thank
You! Without your support, this show would not be the tremendous
success that it is.
If you did not get to Reno this
year, you simply missed out on one of the best Western National
Angus Futurities ever! Attendees were very impressed with the
new host resort the Grand Sierra. The rooms were large and
spacious with an updated feel and modern design. Being able to
watch the NFL draft while in the shower is always a plus. I was
told the Junior Fun Night as well as the NJAA Raising the Bar
Leadership Conference were both a huge success. The juniors
found the bowling alley, movie theater, driving range and arcade
a great way to pass the little spare time they did have. The
restaurants were outstanding with something to meet all pocket
books. Those that tried their hand at Lady Luck seemed to really
enjoy themselves. I noticed most all the tables that I passed in
the evening were occupied by members of our own Angus family. I
believe that I speak for the majority when I say that I am truly
looking forward to the next four years and the continuation of
our alliance with Grand Sierra Resorts. For those of you
wondering why we made the move, it was unfortunately for
financial reasons. The Grand Sierra gave the WNAF an outstanding
room rebate as well as several other perks and still managed to
help in funding the Western States Angus Auxiliary and Grand
Sierra Resorts Educational Scholarship.
On Sunday night the Pearl lounge at
the Grand Sierra was packed for another successful WNAF
fundraiser. Our own Cara Ayres and Beth Schreiber performed
Honky Tonk Laundry, a country hit musical to an enthusiastic
crowd of Angus breeders. The house was packed and the girls sang
everything from country classics by Tammy Wynet to present day
Martina McBride. The girls really knocked it out of the park
especially when the talented two joined together in an
energetic, enthusiastic harmony. The musical comedy show also
included a little audience participation and I would like to
thank Rob Thomas and Dennis Lopez for being such terrific sports
and playing along with all the fun.
While in the stands between
classes, the buzz was about the American Angus Association and
what is happening with genetic defects such as AM, NH and Fawn
Calf Syndrome. I feel this topic will definitely shape the path
as well as the future of where this breed is headed now and into
the next decade. I would like to ask everyone this pressing
question, “What do you think the role of the American Angus
Association should be on genetic defects? This is your
association and you have every right to voice your opinion to
our Board of Directors. Opinions and views vary widely and you
as breeders of Angus cattle should be the ones to dictate how
this situation should be handled. Should registrations be pulled
on all carriers? Should breeders be responsible for making
breeding decisions that steer these carriers away from potential
problems? It is my opinion that the duty of the association is
to educate the breeders and let them make their own decisions
based on scientific information and statistical probabilities.
Economics will dictate and take care of the rest.
If you have never attended the
Western National Angus Futurity or didn’t make the trip this
time, make plans to join us next year. Check out the new
accommodations of the Grand Sierra Resort, see some terrific
cattle and just have some good‘ol Reno fun. I know you’ll have a
wonderful time.
Troy Van Roekel
WSAA President
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