News Update

October 28, 2016

Angus Presents International
Genomics Symposium

The American Angus Association and Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI) will host the second-annual International Genomics Symposium Nov. 5 as part of the 2016 Angus Convention in Indianapolis, Ind. The event will provide cattle producers with cutting-edge information about advancements in genomics technology — and how these advances impact their businesses.

The symposium is sponsored by Neogen GeneSeek Operations, a leading provider of comprehensive genomics solutions to the cattle industry.

John Pollak, director of the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Clay Center, Neb., will lead the morning’s discussion, which focuses on a futuristic perspective on the beef industry and genomic technology’s impact on quality beef production.

Next up is keynote speaker Juan Enriquez, a best-selling author and venture capitalist who unlocks the extraordinary promise of new life sciences. He’s one of the world’s leading authorities on the uses and benefits of genomic research.

The symposium will also feature Ben Hayes, lead researcher of the ‘1,000 Bull Genomes Project.’ He will take a worldwide look at how DNA profiles are turning into real data to make better breeding decisions that lead to more productive animals.

To read more about the International Genomics Symposium and the 2016 Angus Convention, access the Angus news release online.

— Adapted from a release by Jena McRell, Angus Media.

Organizations Launch Texans for Property Rights Initiative

Fifteen Texas-based organizations announced the Texans for Property Rights coalition, which will lead a grassroots initiative for meaningful reform to state eminent domain laws.

As the state population continues to grow at a rapid pace, there is an increasing need for more property to build infrastructure for utilization of natural resources and to address transportation needs. While property owners recognize these demands, they also realize that their property rights must be better protected.

In Texas, about 95% of the land is privately owned, which puts the needs of the public in direct conflict with the rights of Texas property owners. These conflicts are not willing buyer-willing seller transactions and often play out in expensive, time-consuming, stressful and unfair situations, resulting in bad outcomes for property owners.

The Texans for Property Rights coalition is hosting meetings across the state allowing property owners to learn how they can get involved and share their concerns on eminent domain. An overview of current laws and possible improvements will also be presented by an eminent domain legal expert at these meetings.

For more information, view the news release online.

— Adapted from a release by Laramie Adams, Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association.

Cattle Industry Convention Features Beck Weathers

The Opening General Session officially kicks off the 2017 Cattle Industry Annual Convention, and the featured keynote speaker will be Beck Weathers, survivor of the 1996 Mount Everest tragedy and inspiration for the major motion picture Everest.

This is a miraculous story of survival from one of the most violent and deadly storms in the history of Mount Everest that killed eight climbers. Despite losing part of his nose, right hand and part of his left hand to frostbite, Weathers has managed to resume his career as an accomplished pathologist and become recognized as one of the most acclaimed speakers in the world.

As Weathers takes audiences back to that fateful day on Everest, he reflects on his harrowing tale of survival, the lessons he learned, and his supreme appreciation for getting a second chance at life, while encouraging others to cherish every moment. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime event!

For more information, visit the convention website.

— Adapted from a release by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.

Farmers National Company Opens New Office

Farmers National Co., the nation’s leading farm management and agricultural real estate services company, has opened a new office in Twin Falls, Idaho, serving Idaho, Oregon and Washington. It will be managed by Brent Stanger, farm manager, real estate sales.

The new office and addition of Stanger to spearhead the new territory will help expand Farmers National Co.’s existing farm management, real estate sales, appraisal and consulting business to a 28-state service area. For almost 25 years, Stanger has been a rural real estate appraiser. He is an accredited rural appraiser (ARA) and a certified general appraiser (CGA).

Working as a Farmers National Co. farm manager, Stanger helps landowners achieve their ownership goals and provides peace of mind that their land is well cared for.

For more information, visit the Farmers National Company website.

— Adapted from a release by Kristin Danley-Greiner, Farmers National Company.

NMSU Southwest Beef Symposium

With the significant change in the cattle market, taking advantage of every possible tool or bit of information that will improve production is needed now more than ever.

This year’s Southwest Beef Symposium is focused on helping producers become more efficient and productive in their respective operations. Individual registration of $75 includes symposium proceedings, steak supper and lunch, with early registration available through Jan. 2, 2017. On Jan. 3 and at the door registration will be $95 per registrant.

In addition, the Southwest Beef Symposium Trade Show is always a highlight, and typically attracts more than 20 vendors. Booth space is available for $250 and includes registration for one representative.

Find additional registration information online.

— Adapted from a release by New Mexico State University.

— Compiled by Paige Nelson, field editor, Angus Media.