President's Letter
February 2008

The first few weeks of 2008 have held many changes. The weather alone needs help deciding what season it is. Already we have received much needed rain but also snow, ice and tornados along with 60 and 70 degree days.

This year promises to be a year of change for Angus in Arkansas. Whether we like it or not much of this change is inevitable. Many of the inputs we use to raise Angus cattle are at record highs including corn, fuel and fertilizer to name a few. As seedstock producers we are confronted with how this change affects not only our costs but the costs of our customers and their needs from us as producers of bulls and replacement females for their herds. Demands of feeders on the commercial producer are also changing. We must understand these and assist our customers in meeting those changing needs.

How we deal with change or don’t deal with it, will make an impact on all our Angus herds. Angus cattle are definitely growing in demand as AugusSource catches on with packers and feeders. No longer are “black hided” cattle enough for many. Feed efficiency is something we are being asked about more and more. Not long ago all we were asked about was birth weight and weaning weight. This is all changing. With change comes opportunity for those willing to embrace it.

Speaking of change we have new officers and directors. We are committed to bring back our annual consignment sale this fall. At the annual meeting in January, 20 members expressed interest in consigning nearly 80 lots for a fall sale. This is commitment to change. We must work together to get this sale going and productive for our members. Working together for a common goal is a key for all of us in showcasing and marketing Angus cattle in our areas. Help us make this sale successful in giving the sale committee input and support. Once we get this going we can work on other ways the Arkansas Angus Association can aid its members in marketing Angus Cattle.

I could not write this letter without thanking Dr. Chris Ashworth for his leadership as President the last two years. Chris has invested countless hours on our behalf. Thanks also to Trey Gage for serving as our treasurer and leaving us a good balance. Shirley Williams and Jack Weisenbach have done a great job with making our newsletter and website assets of the association and holding costs down. These people have a passion for raising and promoting Angus Cattle. Thank them when you see them.

I look forward to seeing each of you at the many Angus events coming up this spring in Arkansas.

Sincerely,

H. Lawson Hembree