SALISBURY — The Rowan County Holstein Club held its annual meeting last Thursday at Salem Lutheran Church and presented awards to a number of youth.
Despite its name, the club consists of various dairy farmers across the county that have various breeds of dairy cows, along with agricultural teachers, agriculture industry personnel, Cooperative Extension agents and general public who support and enjoy the dairy industry.
The meeting was led by President Andy Corriher, who updated members on the status of the club and thanked everyone for their help and dedication in making the 2013 Rowan County Jr. Dairy Show a success.
Several youth awards were presented at the meeting and included Holstein Junior Champion to Haley Foster with her winter calf and Holstein Grand Champion with her 2-year-old cow; Jersey Junior Champion to Ryan Menius with his summer yearling; Jersey Grand Champion to Valerie Karriker with her 4-year-old cow; and Brown Swiss Junior and Grand Champion to Sam Hager with his winter calf.
Also presented were the 2013 Dairy Girl and Dairy Boy achievement awards. This award is presented to one young lady and one young man who have excelled not only in the show ring, but are actively involved in dairy judging and other aspects of the dairy industry. The 2013 Dairy Girl Achievement award went to Lauren Luther, and the 2013 Dairy Boy Achievement Award went to Ryan Menius.
The meeting also featured a magic show to provide entertainment to both children and adults. As of Jan. 1, 2013, Rowan County ranked fifth in the state for dairy cows. Livestock, dairy and poultry accounted for $24,512 in cash receipts.
Karen Moore provided the financial reports. David Correll announced updates on dairy youth activities, such as Dairy Quiz Bowl, State 4-H and FFA dairy judging contest, and the Dairy Skillathon. Harold Caudill, former Cooperative Extension agent and longtime member of the club, gave updates on the Rowan County Holstein Club Scholarship, as well as the Rowe McNeely Scholarship.
The dairy industry has been and continues to be a vital industry for the county. If you are interested in more information regarding the Rowan County Holstein Club, please contact Cooperative Extension agent, Thomas Cobb, 704-216-8970 or thomas_cobb@ncsu.edu.