Extra Voice
Maines Alive in ’05!

by Kyla Nesheim, editor/director of communications

It’s hard to believe it’s already 2005! A New Year brings new resolutions, and with new resolutions comes change. We all know how New Year’s resolutions go over – the majority of them last only a few weeks, if that, and slowly fade away until you are back into your regular routine. As Maine-Anjou enthusiasts, I propose we change that and make a resolution we can all stick with. Let’s make a resolution to truly bring Maines alive in 2005 and get the “Maine” word out. Now don’t get me wrong, I know the word has been spread that Maine-Anjou genetics are capable of excelling in all aspects of the cattle industry, but now it’s time to push a little harder. Recruit more members, more registrations, more transfers and create more hype about the breed. Let’s make the Maine breed the “it” breed of 2005 and keep building on past foundation. For all of you out there, make your resolutions to promote the breed to the fullest extent possible. If we strive to accomplish this resolution, our breed will continue to grow. With new members, breeders and promoters coming in, new perspectives can bolster our impressive breed. Let it be known that Maine-Anjou cattle bring forth tremendous dispositions, eye appeal and commercial acceptability. Push for more supporters, bigger turnouts at shows, more Maine- njou influence cattle in the feedlots and to make customers seek out our breed. If you’re a breeder selling Maine-Anjou cattle, encourage your buyers to sell and promote the breed to others. If you are an exhibitor, encourage others that this is the breed that puts champion banners on the wall. If you are a promoter, spread the word that these cattle are capable of producing top of the line calves; these cattle are some of the best in the feedlot; these cattle win in the show ring; and these cattle put added money in your pocket.
Again, the AMAA can’t stress enough the importance of the registration certificate. Push to get more registered Maine-Anjou and MaineTainer cattle in 2005. Registered cattle are what keep breed associations alive. Help to make the Maine Association as big as ever by registering your calf crop.
With two major shows coming up – Denver and Fort Worth – now is the time to remember that resolution. These shows give Maine-Anjou cattle an opportunity to shine. For instance, the Cattlemen’s Choice Bull Sale in Denver is one of the most talked about and attended sales at the National Western. Top-notch bulls have been sold in this sale for many years. Buyers have been satisfied and keep coming back for more. This year, heifers will be added to this prestigious sale. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to purchase some of the best genetics in the breed. Don’t forget about the Class Act National Maine-Anjou Sale, the Pen Shows, the Gold Standard and the open and junior shows on the Hill. Denver is a great place to see what the breed is all about.
The busiest part of the show and sale seasons is among us. I have no doubt that Maines
will continue to top sales around the country and will also continue to win in the show ring. AMAA staff will be present at the majority of sale and show events. If you have any questions, or just want to talk about the breed, please feel free to talk with any staff member.
With that said – make that resolution!
I wish everyone the best for 2005!