As the end of my second consecutive term approaches, I take pause and reflect on the past six years that I have been blessed to serve the American Simmental Association. Serving the ASA on the Board of Trustees has been a fulfilling and gratifying experience.
Yes, I believe we have accomplished much from a policy standpoint, and we have had the opportunity to attend numerous events across the country. It is the relationships that have been established that I will fondly remember.
I want to thank my fellow trustees and breeders for supporting this issue of the Register focusing on the Simbrah breed. Simbrah cattle offer heat tolerance, hybrid vigor, and diversify our SimGenetic umbrella. They capitalize on the many positive traits of the Brahman and Simmental breeds, two of the most populous in the world. It is our hope that this publication will increase awareness of their value and continue to be an annual opportunity for Simbrah breeders to highlight their programs. I believe the diversification of the operations represented on the board during my tenure has been a key component to the success that we have been able to accomplish since our inception.
Dr. Jon DeClerck, along with certain members of the ASA and International Genetics Solutions staff, have been working diligently to update numerous traits to ensure that we continue to utilize the soundest tools available. With these updates it is natural that some changes will occur; however, it should make our operations more efficient and effective resulting in the most productive stock we can produce. If my experience on the board has taught me anything, it is to embrace change regardless if it comes in the form and time that we prefer. Thus, I hope you will join me in being understanding of the updates to the evaluation and welcome them as they should make us better breeders.
I would like to wish the new American Junior Simmental Association Board of Trustees much success, and we appreciate all your support of ASA. Speaking of their support, the new ASA Ring of Champions season will kick off this month at the American Royal in Kansas City. We wish all the exhibitors safe travels and much success, we appreciate all that you do to promote SimGenetics. Be sure and take advantage of the many American Simmental-Simbrah Foundation opportunities available to you throughout the season including fundraisers at Cattlemen’s Congress, Fall Focus, and more. We thank you in advance for your support in supporting our mission.
The fall sale season is also underway; we are anticipating another successful season as the demand for SimGenetics continues to increase thanks to the meticulous decision-making, record-keeping, and perseverance of our fellow members. We appreciate all the members taking advantage of ASA programs like Calf Crop Genomics and the Carcass Expansion Program that are driving predictability, as well as increasing consumer demand. I also encourage you to consider the opportunities available to you through ASA Publications, Inc., to promote your sale and/or program. As my dad always says, “no see, No Tell, equals NO SELL.”
When I first joined the board, I may have viewed ASA primarily through the lens of my own operation and region. Six years later, I have a much greater appreciation for the diversity of our membership and the responsibility that comes with making decisions for an Association that serves so many different types of breeders. It is my hope that future boards will continue to prioritize unity among membership, remaining commercially relevant, and be innovative to expand our footprint in the industry. If you are or have ever considered serving the ASA, I strongly encourage you to do so as I believe you will have a fulfilling experience.
In closing, I would like to thank my family and the crew at home for filling in the gaps for me and making this opportunity to serve an Association I hold so dear to me possible. I want to thank Dr. Jon DeClerck for his leadership, along with the staff, for their commitment to us members. Finally, to my fellow trustees since 2020, the opportunity to serve alongside you and get to know each of you has been a pleasure that I will frequently look back on with deep appreciation. As we press forward, there are many challenges that lie ahead as the beef industry evolves; however, ASA members have always risen to meet the moment, and I believe we are equipped to continue to do so. I wish you all continued success and May God Bless You.
