Jenkins Ranche

Do You Remeber That Time at The Calgary Bull Sale .... ?

2012-01-22T17:40:00.000-08:00

It is once again drawing close to another Calgary Bull Sale. This year marks the 112^thanniversary of this sale which is to be held on Feb. 29^th and March1^st, at Calgary Stampede Park.

In addition to Hereford, Angusand Charolais bulls, there is also a select group of ranch ready horses and anew feature this year will include a Commercial Replacement Heifer Pen Show andSale.

The Bull Sale began in 1901 with 64 consigned bulls and an entry Fee:$1.00/head. That first sale averaged $90.00/head. Ofcourse the entry fee has gone up considerably since that first sale – but sohas the sale price ! Last year the Calgary Bull Sale saw 173 bulls sell for anaverage of $4284.97/head

“By 1905 the Calgary Bull Sale had gained the distinction ofbeing the largest individual purebred cattle consignment in the world”

~ JoAnn Jones-Hole in her book “The Calgary Bull Sale”

Over the years the bull sale has seen many changes – yet itstill is held in high regard as being one of the top bull sales in ourcountry. Some changesof interest include:

Transportation of the Cattle

“Getting bulls to and from thesale was not as easy in the early days as it is today. If a breeder lived close enough, he simplydrove the bulls with horses, or hauled them in a wagon or sleigh pulled byhorses. Most of the bulls, however, weredriven from home to the nearest railway siding , or, depending on the distanceand conditions, sometimes carried to the siding on a wagon or sleigh. Then they were loaded onto the boxcars forCalgary”

~ JoAnn Jones-Hole in her book “The Calgary Bull Sale”

NOW – we pull up in our pick-uptruck and stock trailer – or with a semi truck and cattle liner. Makes one appreciate our modern technology whenwe think about the time and effort that was spent getting cattle to Calgary inthe early days !

The Cattle

Among one of the most notablechanges in the Calgary Bull Sale would have to be the cattle themselves.

The People

You can imagine over the yearsthe number of people that have attended the Calgary Bull Sale, and those whohave sold bulls there. From banquets,pancake breakfasts and stall parties, the Calgary Bull Sale has always madeeveryone feel at home.

The Calgary Bull Sale has alwaysbeen a monumental event with Alberta Cattle Breeders. Many of us have memories of attending theevent with our family and friends. The bull sale has always been more than just a place for breeders tosell their cattle, but also a meeting place for cattlemen and women to cometogether and visit with one another. Someof the most interesting and memorable people I have met have been those who arethe “characters” of the Calgary Bull Sale.

“To Alberta people there is a certain atmosphere at CalgaryBull Sale. It’s special, and I havenever found that atmosphere at any other sale”

~Doris Fenton in “TheCalgary Bull Sale” by JoAnn Jones-Hole

As I am writing this I am thinking of all the stories I have to tell about the Calgary Bull Sale, and those which have passed down to me through others. Every year you can bet that at least once some one will say to me: “Do you remember thattime at Calgary Bull Sale ... ?

What are your most memorable moments from Calgary ?

We look forward to visiting with at this years sale -- be sure and stop by the stall and say hello !

You can view our 2012 Calgary entries here

or the full sale cataloguebelow:

Open publication - Free publishing - More bull

Friday Flashback -- Judging at Age 7

2012-01-06T18:18:00.000-08:00

Really hated those "sway backs" ! ---- Fat and plump ???? Well -- what can I say -- I was 7 !

The Legends of Chief Mountain

2011-12-20T15:01:00.000-08:00

View of Chief Mountain From Jenkins Ranche

If you have ever been to our place, the far southwest corner of Alberta or Glacier Park in Montana – you have probably viewed Chief Mountain. It is not that there are not other mountains to see there – but Chief seems to kind of stand alone and his unique shape makes everyone who views him take notice.

As a child I awoke each morning to look out the kitchen window and say good morning to “Chief”. I remember well it was something that we always did – though I am not sure why because he never really looked a whole lot different that he did the day before. My aunt also had the same view out of her own kitchen window. I remember her always looking to greet Chief the same way we did at our own house. Seemed to me that good old “Chief” was just part of the family. So much so – that when we moved the house I live in now onto the place we all wandered around deciding where to put it – making sure I could see Chief Mountain out the window. Looking back – we should have paid more attention to which way the wind blows and maybe now I wouldn’t be constantly drifted in all winter !

As I was sorting through my photos the other night – it occurred to me that I take a lot of pictures of Chief. It got me thinking – “how did old Chief get its name ?”. Of course I grew up believing that it was because if you look at him from our place you can see the profile of an old Indian Chiefs face. However --- I have learned that especially in my family – you might want to double check on some of those story’s you grew up believing !

Diagram of Chiefs Profile ... if you can't see the image of an Indian Chiefs head
-- tilt your own head to the right and view him from the side !

Well --- turns out I couldn’t find anything about Chief Mountain being named so because of it’s resemblance to an Indian Chief – but I DID find some other interesting history about it !

- first noted on maps, published in England in 1795 or 1796, upon which it was called "King Mountain."

-Captain Meriwether Lewis is also believed to have seen the mountain on his trip up the Marias in 1806 and called it "Tower Mountain."

-There are two records of the origin of another name for this peak — "Kaiser Peak" — by which it was known for some time. Some say it was so-named by early German geographers, but the most authentic story comes from Eli Guardipee, a member of the Blackfeet tribe, who stated that it was so named for a "Bull-whacker" (oxen freighter) named Lee Kaiser, who accidently shot himself near the present town of Cardston, Alberta, in 1872. For him the creek where this happened was known as "Lee Creek," and the mountain at its headwaters was called "Kaiser Peak."

-There are many historic legends regarding this mountain, the most popular being that of the young Flathead Indian brave who spent several days upon the top of the peak searching for his "medicine vision," and using a bison skull for a pillow. Apparently you will still find a bison skull a top the mountain.

-The present name was taken from the Blackfeet Indian name "Old Chief," or "The Mountain-of-the-Chief," by which it was known to the Blackfeet, probably because of the above-mentioned legend. (Above facts listed on this website

Hmmmm ...... no mention of the mountain actually LOOKING like an Indian Chief .....

Chief Mountain with Spring Wildflowers

However – I did manage to find this other legend that tells of a warrior husband and war chief who fell in love and married a woman whom he loved so much that he never left to fight again. Until one day he decided that they he had to go to battle one more time --- and when his fellow tribesmen returned with his dead body his wife was so distraught that she climbed Chief Mountain and threw herself and their young child off it’s peak.

“Her people buried the woman and baby there among the rocks. They carried the body of the chief to the place and buried him beside them.

From that time on, the mountain that towers above the graves was known as Minnow Stahkoo, "the Mountain of the Chief", or "Chief Mountain".

If you look closely, even today, you can see on the face of the mountain the figure of a woman with a baby in her arms, the wife and child of the chief.

Chief Mountain at Twilight through the fog

I think we all have a certain “talisman” that lights the way home – that certain tree, road sign, road, house or mountain that reminds us we are “home”. No matter where I have been – there is still that excitement when Chief Mountain comes into view and I say to myself “there’s Chief”. And while I am likely to never climb to his peak and use a bison skull for a pillow – I am happy to live in his shadow.

AND – I still think that Chief's profile looks like that of an Indian Chief !

Jen

Friday Flashback - World Hereford Conference

2011-12-02T17:47:00.001-08:00

Things have been busy around here – while we were away at Edmonton dad decided that we should build a new shed for our few early calving cows. After seeing the wind blow across our yard the last couple of weeks – we all agreed that the shed was going to be a “must have” if we wanted to keep calves alive here in February !

Now – normally we calve in April/May --- so why are we calving so early this year ? Because .... The World Hereford Conference is coming to Alberta in July 2012 ! We are already getting excited about the show next summer – I thought I would dig up a little info. about the previous World Hereford Conference’s held in Canada -- so here are a few things I found to share with all of you !

(NOTE: I could not find any info. on other Conferences in Canada beside the 1976 one -- I believe there was another smaller one held -- but no official cattle show took place ? -- my apoligies for the lack of info. -- if anyone can fill in the blanks for us here that would be great !)

“When the 7th World Hereford Conference delegates gathered for the first time in Canada at Banff on June 27th – July 3rd (1976) it was the largest single meeting of seed stock producers held anywhere. Over 800 people from over 20 countries made their way with some difficulty due to air traffic control problems to the five day event held every four years since its founding in 1951”

~ quoted from Alberta Hereford Heritage book

Of course there were a number of “tours” scheduled during the 1976 Conference – including visits to George Templetons (XTC Herefords), McIntyre Ranch, Bar Pipe Farms, Ulrich Herefords, Hansons Bell L, Jones Hereford Ranches, Rusticana, Colpitts Ranches, Pirmez Hereford Ranch, B&H Herefords and of course a tour to the Alberta Hereford Test Centre.

Said the Canadian Hereford Digest in its September 1976 issue: “ The nearly three weeks of activities connected with the World Hereford Conference concluded with the International Hereford Show staged July 8th and 9th (1976). And what a fitting climax this event proved to be ! Held in the spacious Stampede Corral at the Calgary Exhibition and Stampede Park, the quality and well presented entries from eight provinces and eleven states in the United States provided a tremendous show for the huge crowd present, which represented at least 25 countries” ~ quoted from the Alberta Hereford Heritage Book

Champion Polled Bull

Stanway Lad 41F Champ. H.Herford Bull

“Under the chairmanship of Lloyd Pickard of Olds the show moved along smoothly without a hitch through the two days of judging” The show arena was divided into two sections with the Polled Herefords and Horned Herefords showing separately, but simultaneously. Judging the strong Polled Hereford show was W.W. Donaldson of Louada Farms at Petercorough, Ontario, assisted by Ron Pitchford of Pleasant Valley Farms at Melfort, Saskatchewan. Judging the excellent exhibit of Horned Herefords were George Edgar of Little Red Deer Farms at Innisfail and Joe Rogers of Penticton, B.C. , Manit ~ quoted from the Alberta Hereford Heritage Book

Other statistics:

Total number of livestock entries received -- 777

People who attended the Conference, Tours and Shows --- approx. 15 000

Attendance at the show --- 1800 for the females --- 2300 for the bulls

People registered for the Conference in Banff -- nearly 1000

Largest attendance on the tour -- B&H Farms -- over 2000 people

The 2012 World Hereford Conference is now in it's 16th year and is to be held in Canada July 8th – 25th 2012. As it was in 1976 – there will be a number of tours throughout the country beginning in B.C. and moving on to Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. In between these tours is the main Conference to once again be held at the Calgary Exhibition Park, and will allow visitors to take in the World Famous Calgary Stampede & Rodeo. During this time the World Hereford Show is to take place at Olds, AB – along with a Junior Program/Show and “Rancher Day”.

WHC Display at Farmfair 2011

I look forward to creating new memories at the 2012 WHC – and I am sure there will be lot's of "good times" to write about afterwards.

I extend an open invitation for everyone to drop by our stall there and say hello.

Jen

My Story

2011-11-23T19:37:00.001-08:00

I am quite humbled that the awesome people at T Bar C chose to write an article about me for the current issue of Herefords Today. Doreen did a very good job of portraying who I am -- and where it is I come from -- and I could not have asked for a more flattering layout for my pictures. So thanks again to everyone who helped put this all together -- I am quite honored (and a bit shocked !) that others would find me to be an interesting enough subject for an article.

For anyone who doesn't know the history of Jenkins Ranche -- or for those of you who don't know me well -- here is your chance to find out a little more about us !

Open publication - Free publishing - More hereford

Farmfair 2011 -- Hittin the Road !

2011-11-03T06:35:00.000-07:00

Farmfair 2010

It is that time of year again -- we are hittin the road on Saturday and heading to Farmfair in Edmonton.

Things have been busy as usual here -- shipping calves, vaccinating cows etc -- not as much time as we would like to work on our "show cattle". BUT -- we are getting closer to being ready every day -- even got their heads clipped yesterday !

My "old girl" gettin' a haircut -- not sure she like this too much -- but she did pretty good !

And the finished product -- look for her AND her two year old daughter with calf at side in Farmfair !

We are looking forward to seeing everyone up there -- don't forget if you can't make it to the show -- it will be broadcast LIVE on DLMS -- Wednesday, November 9th at 1PM MST.

Jen

Friday Flashback -- The Auction

2011-10-14T19:32:00.000-07:00

Parkbend Auction 1940's
(would have been the closet auction to our ranch)

I have always liked this picture -- with the rail cars in the background - the woman working the cattle in the ring on horseback (who I believe may be my cousin Alice) -- those guys leaning over the roof of the stands look fairly comfortable, though that roof seems to have quite a sag in it !. One thing that stands out for me in this picture though -- is that auction sales have always been a place to socialize. They are a community "event" and as I see the people in this picture, I imagine they looked forward to seeing each other at these sales and I bet there was even a bottle of whisky hidden somewhere !

The venue's for our sales have certainly changed over the years, especially with the internet sales now available -- but one thing that has not changed at sale time is the enjoyment we all get out of visiting with other members of the cattle industry - and seeing the results of our years work in our calf crop.

Fall calf sales have begun here-- and the market is stronger than we have seen in years !
For the week of Oct 12th, 2011 Balog Auction saw 500-600lb steer calves bringing $150.00 - $168.75. Cull bulls and cows remain strong -- and if you are thinking of replacing some of your herd sires now is the time to do it !

Good luck to everyone with their fall calf sales, and getting their calves weaned ! I look forward to seeing you at the upcoming sales and events in Alberta this fall !

Jen

Friday Flashback - Stock Shows --- A Place to Share Ideas

2011-09-03T07:40:00.000-07:00

July 1971 American Hereford Journal

I stumbled upon the most interesting article in the July 1971 Edition of the American Hereford Journal. In it the Jounral had surveryed commercial ranchers about their feelings on livestock shows.   The reason for the article and survey was that "In recent years stock shows have com in for a round of criticism that would have destroyed anything except the most hardy of our argicultural institutions"  .

Here are the findings of the survey

"If you don't take some of your best cattle to the county or local district show you are missing a whale of a chance to promote your herd !"

-Over 73% of respondents attend from 1 to as many as 7 of these type of shows

How about State Fairs ?
Over onehalf (56%) of those surveryed attend from 1 -3 state fairs yearly

What about "major shows" (places like Denver, Ft. Worth --- Farmfair, Agribition in Canada)

-"An amazing 40% of respondents attended -- some up to as many of 3 of these type of shows. (IMO -- a pretty good result if you think of the time & expense for the rancher to attend these shows)

-"Now you may say you never see them on the show day. Of those attending these exhibitions 61% say they see the breeding cattle shows."

- Only 18% indicated they did not attend these types of shows

AND --- only 11% of respondents indicated they did not attend any of these types of livestock shows.

Other interesting findings from the survey

- many would like to see a blend of commercial/purebred breeders judging breed shows

-"The amount of finish carried by show cattle continues to come in for considerable discussion by commercial producers   ------- Possibly the best methoud of dispelling this belief (excess condidtion) would be some sort of mechanical and objective measuring device to dertermine fat thicknes combined with public announcements of this info along with performance info." (Interestingly -- we do have that tool now in the form of Ultrasounding)

The article follows up with actual comments from the respondents to the survery

Here are a few key concerns about these type of shows

"Polictics" --- "Overcondition" -- "Inconsistency in judges" (type of cattle)

Yet -- what is more interesting is that a greater percentage of these commercial cattle ranchers still attend various livestock shows throughout the country.   They still believed that stock shows had a valuable place in agriculture and I think you will find their reasons very thought provoking --

Key points about why we need stock shows

" Competition amongst purebred breeders keeps the quality of cattle high"

-they educate the "urban dweller" on agriculutre and the beef industry

- they provide oppourtunites for our junior livestock breeders

-they allow for our breed to be compared to other breeds that share the marketplace

-they are good adverstising for the purebred breeder

" ---- the cattlemen as well as any business must keep up with the times.   These shows are the quickest way possible to gather these ideas and show them to the public. "

"-- exchange of ideas is absolutely neccessary. Shows are a demonstration of ideas"

I really believe in that last quote --- that we have livestock shows in place to "share ideas".   We gather at these events to showcase our cattle, our program and our breed.   Of course we could all just have a big meeting about the future of the cattle industry and our breed -- and those types of events are definately important to our cattle industry.   BUT -- the difference is -- at livestock shows you have to be able to demonstrate those ideas in the cattle that are on display at them.   They are the place where we can share how we make those thoughts -- and ideas a reality.

Sometimes we forget about the importance of educating the "urban dweller" about agriculutre.   With an ever growing interest in the how our food is being produced and manufactured -- stock shows are an excellent venue for the producer himself to have an oppourtunity to educate people on the quality and care that goes into raising the food that we eat.    We are afterall dependent upon the consumer if we want the beef industry to survive.   Do you take time to visit with those "urban dwellers" when they walk past your stall ? -- if you don't I challenge you to do so -- I have met so many interesting people this way -- from all walks of life -- and you will be surprised at their affection and interest for the livestock industry

One last point in the article was that those who exhibit cattle at stock shows should remember that their cattle are always being evaluated both inside and outside the ring.     Many cattlemen and women will still find their "type" of cattle at these events -- and they may not be of the same opinion as the judge for these shows.    Basically -- just because you didn't win -- it does not mean that you are still not gaining valuable advertising. networking and marketing oppourtunites.

There is much talk these days about the type of livestock shows we should be having, as well as the presentation of the cattle at them.   Todays article reminded me that within our beef industry their will always be people who like different "styles" --- it really comes as no surprise as we all have our own ideas about what is "best" in life in general.

To put it simply --- some people like Levi's -- and some people like Wranglers --- but at the end of the day -- they all wear Jeans.   I wonder if we shouldn't as a breed spend more time coming together, sharing postive ideas, focusing on the quality of cattle represented, and educating others on the safety and care that goes into producing beef --- and less time worrying about if your neighbor in the show barn is presenting his cattle differently than you --- or wearing Levi's when you like Wranglers.

Stock shows are not a "one size fits all" event --- but there is something at them that will fit each and everyone of us.

As we move into the fall show season here in Canada -- I am looking forward to having the oppourtunity to "share ideas" with people from all walks of the beef industry, from the producer -- right down to the consumer.

Hope you enjoyed our Friday Flashback --- and are enjoying your long weekend !! I will get off my soap box now, and go and tend to those 'show cattle" or I won't be present at any stock shows this fall !

Jen

Friday Flashback -- Ridin' Wild Ponies (and a few random shots of my day)

2011-08-27T10:42:00.000-07:00

Well -- it has been awhile since I gave you all a good laugh at my expense.   Todays "flashback" is of me .. about 4-5yrs ... might be the last time I went riding in a dress.   Gotta love them boots .. I believe I still have them, tucked away in a trunk somewhere.

I seem to be getting good and keeping my Friday Flashbacks updated -- but not so great at posting about what is going on in the present around here.   We are finally finishing up the last of our baling -- going to be onto some cow work in the next few weeks.

Last night I went out into the field behind our house to see if I could snap a few pics of the bears that have been hanging around.   I patiently waited .... and waited .... and FINALLY one came out to visit .. and then another.

They are "good bears" in once sense in that they wouldn't get to close to the truck ...usually I am hoping to NOT run into a bear ... but I was feeling pretty secure in the truck and for once wanted them to get a bit closer. Apparently they were not into a "modeling" for me last night so I didn't get any good pics of them ... but I did get a pretty shot of the scenery.

Hope everyone is having a great weekend --- I am off to finish up that haying I mentioned earlier -- going to feel so good when all those bales are piled !

Jen

Friday Flashback -- Makin' Hay

2011-08-21T06:34:00.000-07:00

Makin' Hay in 1941

It has been a long time since I posted a "Friday Flashback" (yes - I know .. it is actually Sunday !). We are busy still trying to finish up the last of our haying.   We have had mutiple minor breakdowns with tractors and equipment this season which have held us up in one way or another.

As I picked the picture to post today -- I was thinking about how hard they had to work in 1941 to put up hay for the winter.   Oh sure -- we might work some long days now -- but really the physical labor and time spent haying is so much less than it would have been then.

I guess we should all feel pretty lucky to have our modern technology -- but with the cost of fuel, equipement purchases, repairs etc -- I sometimes wonder if we are so much better of than they were back then ?

Now I probably won't rush out tomorrow and trade my John Deere tractor for a team of horses --- but I will take a moment to stop and enjoy the smells and sounds of the day --- and be thankful for all those modern conveniences that we have these days.  . I might even day dream for a bit about how much simpilar life would seem without all of our modern technology --- and think about trading in my green horse for a team of mules !!

Jen

Friday Flashback - The Line One Influence

2011-07-22T20:39:00.000-07:00

Jenkins Ranche Ad -- 1982

Our herd has always been influenced by Line 1 breeding -- this ad was done in 1982 and pictured one of our feature L1 sires at the time. If you look WAY back in some of the pedigree of our females -- you can still find a few of these bulls.

Almost 30 years later our breeding program is still being influenced by L1 genetics. In the last few years we have been fortunate enough to find Line 1 genetics that fit very well into our breeding program. These sires offered us all of the traits we were looking for at the time -- strong maternal strength -- strong carcass traits -- moderate/low birth weights -- and structural soundness.

CJH HARLAND 408

One of those sires we used was CJH HARLAND 408. Initailly we used Harland on our replacements heifers because of his low birth weight and high growth potential. As we put his daughters into production we were quickly made aware of the strength of his females and to this day have used 4 of his sons in our breeding program. The daughters of these home raised sons are passing on Harlands same maternal strength and style.

JENRAN 408 HARLAND 14U
Sired by Harland
Pictured July 11, 2011 -- 2 cycles into breeding season

The other Line 1 bull that we are really excited about is a bull that we purcahsed from Holden Herefords. When we first saw him we were so impressed with the amount of muscle and lower quarter in the bull -- and he also provided us with that extra red pigment that we were looking for. It is hard sometimes to find a bull who is full of hard muscle -- yet loose hided and soft flanked -- and yet those traits we both obvious in this bull. "Jack" as we call him (I have to wonder how many of Holdens bull carry that same nickname ! LOL !) ..... has been used extensively here in the last 2 years .. this year alone he has bred almost 50 females. We hope to have a number of his offspring represented at the World Hereford Conference in 2012.

HH ADVANCE 8248U
or "Jack" as we call him
Pictured at 3yrs of age after 2 cylces of breeding - July 2011

If you are interested in knowing where the Line 1 cattle came from --- and about their breeding -- I dug up a great article on the subject-- including some pics. of foundation Line 1 sires

Line 1 Hereford Cattle: More Than 75 Years of Research

Jen

Friday Flashback - Bonanza

2011-07-15T21:36:00.000-07:00

Reserve Champion Straight bred Hereford Steer -- purchased from Jenkins Ranche

11 Days until Bonanza .........

This is what my younger hereford friends told me last night -- they had been busy working on scrapbooks and all kinds of things -- including their heifer that they are taking to the show. Their excitement is contagious -- it warms my heart and renews my optimism in the Hereford breed when I hear their excitement about their cattle and the upcoming Junior show.

In 2008 the kids and I attended Bonanza in Medicine Hat -- it was a really special few days for me -- and I believe for the kids too. This year Bonanza - which is our National Junior Hereford Show will be held in Saskatoon, SK on July 27th - 31st.

Of course --- after I spoke on the phone with the kids --- and remembered my earlier promise to be there to watch them show --- I made the final decision to fly to Saskatoon on the Friday of the show. I just couldn't tell them that "Auntie Jenny" would be busy haying that week. I am really looking forward to it -- and will be sure and keep everyone posted on what in happening at Bonanza 2011 !

Jen

Friday Flashback -- Calgary Stampede

2011-07-08T19:49:00.000-07:00

Calgary Stampede 1988

Well --- I thought with the Calgary Stampede kicking off today - it was only fitting that I use a Stampede "flashback".

In 1988 our brand -- which is a "J" was recognized for being 100 years old. Registered in 1888 we have continued to use the same brand all these years. Most of our cattle now will carry the brand on the left rib - or the left hip. When we went to the Stampede in '88 I remember feeling quite honored that we were receiving this recognition.

Some people may wonder why we still continue to brand our cattle with the "J" -- while there are a number of reasons for this -- I believe a lot of it is that we are proud of the cattle we raise --- and we are not afraid to put our own "stamp" on them. It is some of the best advertising we can get !

I have lot's of other good memories of attending the cattle show at the Stampede over the years --- and making a trip or two to the Nashville North tent while we were there !

I don't think we will make it up to the Stampede this year --- but I would like to wish those of you competing in the Steer Classic the best of luck ! To those of you who might just be heading up to catch the rodeo -- I too wish you luck fighting the traffic, parking and crowds !!! LOL !

Jen

Alberta Hereford Assoc. AGM

2011-06-30T18:46:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that our Alberta Hereford Assoc. AGM is coming up ! This year our meeting will be followed by a Steak and Lobster dinner and will be held in conjunction with the Keith Gilmore Foundation Charity Golf Classic .

I hope some of you will be able to join us in Hanna on July 6th & 7th !

Schedule of Events

Alberta Hereford Association

2011 Annual General Meeting
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
3:00 p.m.
Hanna Community Centre (use west entrance)
503 4 Street West
Hanna, Alberta

Wednesday 6:00 pm: LOBSTER BOIL &/OR STEAK (your choice) Barbeque at the Campground.
Cost: $50.00/meal.
Make reservation for dinner with Dan or Gwen Aebly: 403-898- 2415 or v_anchor@xplornet.com.

JULY 7 (THURSDAY):

*10:00 am – Registration and Putting Contest
*12:00 pm – Shotgun Start – 18 holes
*5:30 pm – Country Auction
*6:00 pm – Steak Dinner

HOTELS:
SUPER 8:403-854-2400 or The CANADA GREY: 403-854-4471
CAMPGROUND: 403-854-1853 (When calling to camp, tell them you are with the Keith Gilmore Foundation.)
PLEASE RESERVE EARLY!

Happy Fathers Day

2011-06-18T19:20:00.000-07:00

Bob Jenkins - 1942 on "Pone"

It has been a busy couple of weeks here - trying to get fence fixed and bulls out between rain storms. I have enjoyed so much riding with Dad as we sort cows, and put the bulls out to pasture. I am always the one who is worried that we won't get things done - and he is always the one who keeps assuring me that we will - I guess that confidence comes with time and experience.

I have always loved the chance to spend time with Dad and the cows - when I was little instead of watching TV we would pull out old Hereford Digests and "place" the cattle in the ad's. So much of who I am today I owe to him - and his encouragement.

Here's to all those Ranch Dads - who taught us how to fix fence, rope bulls, tie knots, drive trucks (then get "un-stuck" !) - how know a "good one" - Dad's who hauled our horses and cattle all over the county - who caught our horses when we fell off - and who made us get back in the saddle and never give up !

HAPPY FATHERS DAY !!!

Friday Flashback - June 3, 2011

2011-06-03T07:22:00.000-07:00

Tom Jenkins (dehorning), Bob Jenkins (branding) and Joe Jenkins - with their team of supporters Valerie, Leslie, and Margo Johnson (nieces) = photo taken in the early 1960's ?

Our Involvement with the Nature Conservancy of Canada

2011-06-01T07:57:00.000-07:00

In 2001 our family changed the structure of our ranching operation - and began a parntership with the Nature Conservancy of Canada. There were many factors which led to this decision - but one common goal was to see the land protected from the ever increasing pressure of rural sub-division/commercial development in the Waterton Park Front Area. This is a video I did with the Nature Conservancy that talks a bit about how it is we work together - and also shows some great pictures of our place !

Friday Flashback - May 27, 2011

2011-05-27T08:45:00.000-07:00

Good luck to everyone on their upcoming

4H Achievement Day !

Provincial 4H Heifer Show - Bashaw - about 1992

Somewhere hidden in the "vault" I have some pics' from our local 4H Achievement Day - but this is the best I could come up with today - I have no idea why I am out there all by myself - I believe it may have been a division class - and I believe we may have even come home with a banner ! Either way - I have great memories from our summer 4H shows -

Monday is the local 4H Achievement Day in Pincher Creek - and yours truly (me) - is going to evaluate the young showmen and women that day. I am looking forward to it - and hope to see some of you come out and support our local young beef producers !!!!

Jen

Friday Flashback

2011-05-20T06:16:00.000-07:00

Tom and Mic Jenkins with their Hereford Steers - I am guessing this picture was taken in the mid to late 1950's ??? - everyone is all dressed up for this picture - including the steers !

Friday Flashback

2011-05-13T20:03:00.000-07:00

Dad and I - Pincher Creek Fair - about 1984 ???

You will have to forgive the "fuzziness" of this picture - it is one of the very few I have of Dad and I showing cattle together. I have learned so much from him over the years -- and have such great memories of going to shows/sales with him. Take note of the old Bar 15 Simmetals truck in the back - forming the "show ring" for us !

Have a GREAT weekend !
Jen

New Photo Gallery

2011-05-09T12:27:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone -

Check out our new photo gallery at http://jennyj.smugmug.com/ . The link on our website will also change soon - and will take you to our new page. This type of gallery let's me upload and share new pictures right from my computer - which should keep it more interesting and more current.

And ... here are some random pic's of our 2011 Calves, these are end of March/April babies

Dam of our 2011 Calgary Bull Sale Champ. with a "Jack" (HH Advance 8248U) heifer calf (excuse the nose cleaning !)

Reserve Champoin Female Farmfair 2010 - with a sharp looking heifer calf (only a couple hours old) and yes .. that is a spot on it's head ... not manure !

You'll see more of this pair - Reserve Junior Female Farmfair 2010 - with her first calf, another "Jack" heifer calf - this is an awesome pair !

A "Jack" Heifer calf - out of the mother of the Reserve Junior Heifer pictured above

and ..... here is the calf on that pair pictured above ... she is one of our best in my opinion - with a super sweet attitude !

Calgary Bull Sale

2011-03-05T18:11:00.000-08:00

JENRAN WYATT EARP 13W -GRAND CHAMPION

CALGARY BULL SALE 2011

When I was a kid, the highlight of my whole year was to go to the Calgary Bull Sale. It has been in my mind "the" place to be for Horned Hereford Breeders in Alberta. Over the years I have learned so many things, just from being there. I remeber well all the advice I have received, so much of which has helped me to get to where we are today. I have great respect for those breeders who have been to the bull sale in Calgary for so many years, who have built a reputation there, and raised there own Calgary high sellers and Champions.

I told Jeff when he moved to Alberta, that my biggest dream in life was to win the Calgary Bull Sale. It was a dream that I thought would maybe never happen, and certainly not any time soon.

I am so honored that we were choosen to have this years Champion Hereford Bull, it has truly fulfilled a lifelong dream of mine. Thank you to Red Willow Colony for their purchase of the bull, I am looking forward to delivering him and seeing their cow herd.

Jen

Denver Stock Show 2011

2011-01-19T18:07:00.001-08:00

We are finally home and getting things back to "normal" around here, after our trip to Denver. It was great to go and see the show, it had been quite a few years since I had been there. Not much had changed really, but it was a different experience than what I had when I was in my twenties. I admit that I had quite a few good laughs while having lunch in the Yard Bar ... thinking of how much fun us Canadian girls had "back then".

It has been quite awhile since I have had the chance to sit down and watch a whole show, and I really enjoyed it. I thought Wes Hudson did a really nice job of explaining his placing's, and it was interesting to hear his thoughts. In particular, I thought he really looked for moderate, well balanced cattle, who moved out well, had a lot of fore rib and came into their front end nicely. I took a few short videos (which I will post once I get the new video camera figured out !) ... and when I played them back and listened to his reasons again ... you could really hear him express those qualities in a number of his comments. Of course that was just my own take on the day ... I am sure there are others who have a different take on the show.

There were a couple of classes on the Female day that were just awesome ! I was really impressed by the capacity, volume and femininity in the horned females ... would have loved to be able to just take a couple of those classes home with me. Brost's bulls looked really good on show day .... especially their 2 year old bull GHC-TABOO COALITION 52U ... it was just a pleasure to see a bull of that maturity move out so well. He was the Polled Senior Champion Bull ... and it brought a little excitement to the show for us to see a "neighbor" do so well there.

Until I get this video thing figured out .... thought I would post the pic's of the Champions for those of you who haven't seen them yet. Anyone else have some thoughts to share about Denver this year ????

Jen

2011 National Western Results Champions

H W4 MARIAH 0103 ET

DOB: 4/2/2010

SIRE: GOLDEN OAK OUTCROSS 18U
REGISTRATION: 43091169
BRED BY: HOFFMAN - W4 LLC, THEDFORD, NE

OWNED BY: CLAYTON SCHMITT, ULYSSES, NE

DELHAWK KAHUNA 1009 ET

DOB: 1/17/2010

SIRE: CH ENUFF PROPHET 2913
REGISTRATION: 43104099
BRED BY: DELHAWK CATTLE, EARLVILLE, IL
OWNED BY: DELHAWK CATTLE, EARLVILLE, IL

HAPP HEREFORDS, MENDOTA, IL

STAR KKH SSF MIRROR IMAGE 286W

DOB: 3/8/2009 SIRE: MSU TCF TITLEIST 2T ET
REGISTRATION: 42974676
BRED BY: STAR LAKE CATTLE RANCH, SKIATOOK, OK
OWNED BY: MALLORIE PHELPS, GRANDVIEW, TX

STAR TCF SHOCK & AWE 158W ET

DOB: 2/5/2009 SIRE: STAR BRIGHT FUTURE 533P ET
REGISTRATION: 42971547
BRED BY: STAR LAKE CATTLE RANCH, SKIATOOK, OK
OWNED BY: STAR LAKE CATTLE RANCH, SKIATOOK, OK
T C F & COMPANY, PETOSKEY, MI
TENNESSEE RIVER MUSIC INC, FORT PAYNE, AL
PAUL A BATES DBA BUFFALO BEND FARM, LAWRENCEBURG, TN

Reserves (you can view the results and their pic's here )

Happy New Year !

2011-01-02T05:53:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year everyone ! Wishing you all the best in 2011, (indluding high calf prices).

One of my goals for 2011 is to do a better job of keeping this blog updated, and getting it out to more people. I think that may have been a goal I set in 2010 as well ... lol .. maybe this year it will be one I stick to. Jeff got me a new video camera for Christmas, so now we can post video's of things around here, and our sale cattle etc .... I will have fun with it I am sure.

We have been busy in Dec., getting caught up on things around here, after being gone so much in November. I think we may finally be getting there. We just have some cull cows to ship, but that will wait for a few weeks now.

Jeff and I are heading to the Denver Stock Show on the 11th of this month. I am really looking forward to it. The last time I was there, I was working for a Shorthorn breeder ... while it seems like it was not that long ago ... it must have been about 10 years since then ! Funny how time fly's ...

Jen

Supremacy Sale 2010

2010-12-21T16:34:00.001-08:00

Thank you to Lohner Herefords for puchasing our 2010 Supremacy Sale entry JENRAN 592R MANDY 903W.

"Mandy" is a daughter of Churchill Rancher 592R, and is bred to a Harland son that we raised.

AGRIBTION

2010-11-29T11:40:00.000-08:00

There has been so much going on in the last month ! ... but Agribtion is on my mind, as we just got home last night. It was reminiscent of how Agribion used to be .... with cold, snowy weather (which made for a long drive both ways). We only took 5 head to Regina, but on the whole, I felt that they represented our program really well.

While we did not come home with any banners this time, I did come away from it not just feeling good about the quality of our cattle ..... but I felt really grateful to all our friends who helped us out while we were there. I am truely thankful to the follwoing people who made our shows this fall so great: Jamie and John Lutz .... (without Jamie we would never have even been able to take our whole string to Edmonton), and who have been "good friends" and stall mates this fall. Marilyn, Brain, Bennet and Bobbi-Jo Foster .... for coming from Manitoba to help us, and have a visit. I was so proud of the kids for jumping in and helping, and showing in the showmanship on Saturday !. Brad and Scott ... who are so positive and supportive ... (and Brad did and awesome job showing for us !). Steve ... who with Jeff had the cattle looking the best we have ever had them (in my opinion) on show day ( ... and who also hauled our clipping chute home for us !).

and of course ... thanks to Jeff .. who worked so hard to get our cattle to where they needed to be this fall. And for all his encouragement on those days this last year when I wondered if all this work/expense on the "show cattle" would be worth it.

I also wanted to mention how happy I am for the Leachman family ( www.biggullyfarm.com ) for having Grand and then Supreme Champion bull !!!

Now I am off to get some rest ... and hopefully feel a bit better tomorrow ... lot's to be done around here since we have been away so much. Dad got stuck with some really bad weather while we were gone ... I am sure he is happy to have us home.

Will post an update on Farmfair soon ...

Hoping everyone had a safe trip home from Regina ...

Jen

Almost there ...

2010-11-04T18:38:00.000-07:00

I simply find it hard to believe that it is already November !! Maybe it is because the weather has finally been so nice, and we can finally get some things done outside. The picture above was taken September 17, and is of our greenfeed. Haven't had much snow since then, but it sure hasn't felt like summer/fall either.

Only one more day at home, then we are off to Farmfair. Still a ton of things to get done, but we managed to get all of the other calves either weaned or sold. I felt a little better when I saw all those guys still combining out there, I am sure that they are thinking of everything they still need to get done too !

We are really happy with how the "show cattle" look this year. About a month ago we decided to take a 6 year old cow our this fall. She is actually doing pretty good, considering she had never seen a halter, hoping she settles in good once we get to Edmonton. We have a few less head going to Agribition ... but I am still wondering how the plan changed for just taking a "few" to taking 7-9. At the end of last year I swore that this year we were going to just "take it easy" ... I guess I have only myself to blame, as I am the one who kept bringing cattle into the "show pasture".

All this thinking about only having one more day at home has made me realize I had better get off this computer and get some things done.

Hope everyone had a good calf sale, and that your harvesting is all done !

Jen

Sneak a Peek

2010-10-18T22:54:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year again ... when I am wondering why in the heck we thought we had time to take cattle to Farmfair and Agribition again !!! Don't get me wrong .. I am excited about the cattle we have going this year .... but let's not forget about all the other stuff that needs to get done around here in the next couple of weeks ! We are hoping to get our replacement calves weaned next weekend .. then sell the rest on Novemeber 2nd ... hoping that the market stays strong. It would be so nice for everyone if calf prices improved over the last number of years.

I thought I would give you all a little "peek" at a couple of head we are taking out this fall ... if you want to know what the rest of them looks like ... you'll just have to come see us in Edmonton or Regina .. and have a better look ! LOL !

Jen

Snow ... and a Road Trip ...

2010-09-20T06:11:00.000-07:00

The weather here continues to be challenging ... even woke up to snow the other morning. Our greenfeed is looking rather sad, and flat !. I think we'll be able to get it put up ok, hoping that we will get a break from this wet weather and get it done maybe towards the end of the week.

I am off to Hirsche's dispersal sale for a couple of days. Sad to see such progressive breeders have a sale like this. The Horned Hereford breed will be missing one of it's best (if not THE best) promoters of our breed. I guess time will tell what their involvement in the breed will be in the future.

Jeff has been up there getting the sale cattle ready, for about the last month. He has somehow managed to clip every sale animal up there by himself. I am sure he will be ready for a bit of a break once the sale is over, just need to get him home for a few days so we can get our own done !!! LOL !

I am heading up tonight, and am going to stay in High River for both of the sale days. There is so much to be done here .. but I guess there always is ! At some point a person just has to drive away !. I have been through the catalog, narrowed my interests down to about 30 hfr. calves ! LOL ! Hoping to get a couple of hours to look through things in the morning.

Jen

Fall

2010-09-10T06:59:00.000-07:00

I have to say that the weather the last couple of days has been really "dreary" ... perfect word for it. Grey, overcast, rainy .... and dang COLD !!!! Hard to get motivated to get much done outside. Managed to clean the coop for the "ladies" so they can go into winter with a nice clean house !

I am kind of sad that summer seems to be over ... ususally I like fall ... but this year it seems like we missed the sunshine totally ! I had shorts on for all of about half an hour this summer .. and the mesquito's were so bad I had to put my jeans back on after about half an hour !! LOL !

At least there is a bit of a break in the clouds this morning. Not sure what we will get up to today ... awfully muddy out there this morning. Thinking I will go pound some posts. We are going to try and add a little area on to our bull field for picturing cattle for our ad this fall. Hopefully it will be a good spot for us ... this running around over acres of land ... trying to get pic's had become a little hard to manage. If there is one thing that tests a relationship more than calving time .. it is "picture day " ... LOL ! Any of you who have done this will know exactly what I am talking about !

All this talk about picturing has made me realize how great it will be to have this little "spot" done for us to use this fall .... best finish my coffee and get my butt out the door or nothing will get done !

Jen

Time to wear flourescent clothing ...

2010-09-08T19:02:00.000-07:00

Opening day of the early elk season ! So far so good .. the people we had in today have hunted here for a few years, nice people and I am happy for them that they got their tags filled tonight. We have had about 100+ head of elk on the north end of our place for the better part of the summer. They were camped out on some alfalfa we had down there ... made a darn mess of it to tell the truth. Still ... I love to see them. One day when we were haying down there I went to change some knives on my Moco .. and when I went to stand up from under it I was so surprised to see that herd of elk standing right there beside the machine ! LOL !

I am just hoping that this herd stays north ... back at home here we still have all our greenfeed/silage to put up. Elk (and bears) just love that .. and they can sure cause a lot of damage if they find it. Come to think of it ... so can the damn show cows who seem to think that they should be out there too !!! LOL ! Fixed them today though ... got an electric fence put down by the river where they were coming in.

... about the show cattle ... well .. I'll leave that story for another day ..

Jen

Summer ..

2010-08-23T05:19:00.000-07:00

Well .. seems like summer is coming to an end. Somehow it feels like we never even had a summer ! One shouldn't ever complain about moisture .. but it has been a really rainy season these last few months. The grass is still green though .. and it is hard to remember when it last stayed this green for so long. For awhile we were wondering if we were ever going to get our haying done .. but this last week has been good and I am hoping to have it done by the end of the week. Just like most everyone else .. we will have some late greenfeed to put up in a couple of weeks.

Of course we have a few cattle in that we are thinking of showing this fall. The above pic. was taken about 2 weeks ago .. they are still out on native pasture .. so we have to chase them in twice a day so the calves can get a bit of grain. Kind of a pain to do this twice a day .. sometimes I wish they were just yarded ! LOL ! BUT .. I am sure they are happier out on grass.

I was just thinking that it is time to start thinking about our fall ad/picutes too. Somehow I am not ready for it to be fall yet .. and the list of things to get done seems to get longer all the time ... I am sure you know how that goes !

Jen

Building the Ark ...

2010-05-31T20:48:00.000-07:00

Well .. only a month since my last post .. that's not so bad !! LOL

It has really been raining here .. the ground is just saturated. I guess one should never complain about moisture .. but a few days of sunshine in between the rain and snow would be nice ! Finally decided that we had to move cows today .. regardless of the weather and really it was quite nice out and the cows we happy to go to a new pasture. No flooding YET ... supposed to warm up and be nicer by the end of the week. At one time I had thought we would be really efficient and brand this weekend .. but it is looking like that will wait for awhile.

I am glad we had most of our calving done by mid May this year ... not much fun for those who are calving in this late snow/rain we have had. In fact .. I liked it so much that we have decided to turn the bulls out with our purebred cows/heifers a whole cycle early this year ... bulls should go out in the next day or two. The following pic kind of sums op our May storms (taken May 5th) .. not a great pic ... to dark and snowy out !!!

Will have to see if I can get some more "weather pics" posted up here ... that is .. if we don't all float away .. LOL !

Jen

CALVING 2010

2010-05-07T06:27:00.000-07:00

What stared off as a calving season with perfect weather it looks like we will end it with snowy, wet weather ! LOL . Really we are lucky to not have had as much snow as last year at this time .. but these last few snow storms have been hard on the calves. We treated a couple for some scours yesterday, everyone was still nursing their momma .. so hoping this is NOT a sign of things to come !

We also had some trouble with wolves/coyotes this year. As a result of this, about 2 weeks ago we turned our main cowherd north, out of the cavling pasture. It has made it a bit hard to check everyone in these last snow storms .. but the good side of this is that they all have lot's of clean ground to lay on and everyone there looks healthy.

Last year we used 4 new yearling bulls on the registered cows .. and I am REALLY happy with the calves from all of them. They are a really stylish set of calves this year and all of them we born a super nice size. Hopefully I can get some pics' once this weather straightens up.

Like everyone else ... we have lot's of spring projects to get done. Can't wait for the sun to shine here !

Jen

Too Much Travel I Think ..

2010-03-11T16:46:00.000-08:00

Been a busy few weeks .... seems I am always running some where. Was at Calgary Bull sale for a day .. glad I went .. and wishing I had got our bulls in sooner so we could have taken them. Plans are already in the works to make sure we are better organized for next year.

On the weekend we went to Great Falls for a night .. then to Holdens sale in Valier ..nice little break .. but we seemed to be so rushed to get away that I wouldn't exactly call it "restful". Lot's of good bulls at Holdens .. they are such a uniform group .. a person could really add some consistency to their calf crop if they picked up a number of them. We are getting pretty excited to see the calves from the bull we bought there last year .. should have some in a couple of weeks !!

So .. apparently some where in our little "travels" I have picked up a cold ... feeling right crappy today !! LOL ! I guess it is wise to get sick BEFORE one starts calving though .. .. better than when you are in the midst of it !!! And so .. of course I am a bit grumpy tonight .. I always know when I am because Jeff starts hiding in his "cave" ... haha !! .. Maybe I will find the energy to make something yummy for supper and lure him out of there !!

Hope you are having the nice weather we are !!

Jen

Ruby

2010-02-24T08:47:00.001-08:00

Well ... I love this dog .. but man is she a handful !!! LOL ! No worries about her not having the "herding" instinct... as she want to "work" everything .. cows, deer, horses, the other dogs, cats ... ME !!! She really is a sweet affectionate thing once you get to know her .. but she is really unsure of "strangers" ... might be a sign that I need to get out more .. either that or have more visiters.

Good news on the horizon though as it looks like I have found someone to give us a bit of a start before we get into calving. The poor thing .. I think she is just frusterated as she want to work so bad and all I let her do at this point is "get in" , "lie down" .. and come back to me.

Really we should all be more like Ruby .. she thinks everyday is an adventure .. and everything she see's is interesting .. now if she could just chase the heck out of something I think she would just think that life is perfect !!!

Hopefully the next pic's I post of her will actually show her listening to me and being a bit helpful !!!

Jen

Chicken Ranching

2010-02-07T17:49:00.000-08:00

Well .. got the chicken coop cleaned up this weekend .. and I am ordering chicks this week !! YIPPEE !! I might add that others in this household do not share my enthusiasm ... LOL ! Not sure when I will order them for .. but not at least until May if I can. Dad is happy though .. as he can get them eating some grasshoppers again this summer !!

I am not sure what Ruby will do with them ... herd them for sure .. HURT them ?? well .. possibly. Hoping to actually keep them locked in their yard most of the time anyway .. tired of feeding the coyotes !!

Jeff is away clipping bulls for the neighbor .. bet he is freezing his butt off right now .. damp and foggy here today with a north wind .. BURRRRR .... Really I guess a person should not complain .. better than 6 feet of snow and 40 below !!

Now I am off to get some paper work done .. I have been wasting time here on the computer .. but .. the time has come ..

Jen

A Good Day !

2010-01-29T18:33:00.000-08:00

Wow ... we FINALLY got the last of the cows vaccinated today !! I was beginning to think that we would be calving and STILL not have then processed. Beautiful day here .. sun was shining all day .. perfect day to be outside .. and no wind for a change !!

Now we can go to Lethbridge tomorrow and not feel bad about leaving home !! Should be a fun day .. as I am going to a photography workshop .. not sure what Jeff is going to do for 5 hrs while he waits for me ... probably shop for fishing stuff !

Thank goodness for left-overs .. my motivation is low tonight ... and I am hungry after all that fresh air !!

Jen

Are you holding your breath ???

2010-01-09T23:35:00.000-08:00

Well I sure hope not ... LOL ! I did say it was another ATTEMPT at blogging ... and yet again I see it has been months since I have got back to this. BUT ... it is a new year .. and we'll see if I can't finally keep this updated.

Things are finally warming up here ... and thank goodness because I am WAY behind on getting things done around here. Cows still need vaccinated ... culls to ship ... bull calves to sort through ... even a few calves that escaped branding to get processed. Hopefully by the first of next week all those things will be checked off my list.

Jeff is in Denver at the stock show ... and I am doing my best not to be jealous !! (ya' right ! !). At least one of us got to go this year ... sounds like he is having a good time so far .... maybe next year we can both go for a holiday !!!

I have been caught up watching "The Dog Whisperer" tonight ... 3 hours of it to be exact ... and now that I look at the clock I see it is way past my bedtime ... what happened to the days when 1am was early ???? LOL !

Jen

Another attempt at blogging !!

2009-11-16T16:44:00.000-08:00

Well, after an honest attempt at blogging on our website....I have decided to try a different blog site. It was just too tricky to try and load pic's on the old one...maybe that is just my excuse for not keeping up with things !! LOL ! Anyhow...maybe you'll hear more from me now...don't hold your breath though !