The Strength of a United Voice

Jan. 27-30, 2016 at the Scottsdale Plaza Resort

An industry united results in a more directed outcome than a fragmented one. This was proven true in the case of the Department of Labor’s Final Rule in regard to the H-2A sheepherder provisions. The Department heard from the sheep industry that the proposed changes were unworkable and responded by dropping or drastically changing the most serious issues. Had the industry not spoken with a cohesive voice, the result would have been disastrous, possibly to the point of totally losing the program. The Strength of a United Voice served us well. 

“I encourage you to participate in the industry-wide meetings being held at a resort-quality property at a great price for late January in Arizona. Your business will benefit through the many contacts you will make. The insight you will receive about the Veterinary Feed Directive will be useful as well. Your voice is needed in the debate on the key issues facing the sheep industry – be part of setting the course for the Sheep Industry by attending the convention. You will value the experience. I hope to see you in Scottsdale!”
Peter Orwick, ASI Executive Director

WEATHER – WHAT TO EXPECT

Scottsdale is a hot desert climate. The month of January is characterized by daily high temperatures around 65°F cooling to an average low of around 44°F. There is little chance of rain in Scottsdale in January, but you should be prepared for it since there are some outdoor events planned. Remember to pack your wool sweater or jacket and an umbrella.

HOTEL INFORMATION

The Scottsdale Plaza Resort, 7200 North Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, Ariz. 85253. Go to Sheepusa.org/About_Events_Convention to reserve your room online, or call 800-832-2025 and mention American Sheep Industry.

Special Events & Guest Speakers

Board of Directors – Richard Sellers, Veterinary Feed Directive: Opportunities and Massive Challenges, Friday, Jan. 29: Board of Directors Meeting
Ricard Sellers will review the history of VFD, the politics behind the rule and how the revised directive will affect sheep producers, veterinarians and other industries.

Media Training – 10 Tips for a Successful Interview, Thursday, Jan. 28: 2:30 – 4 p.m.
This 90-minute session will give you essential tools for telling your story during a media interview, no matter if it is with your local radio station or the New York Times. Topics will include using a pre-interview checklist, understanding audiences, embracing unified messages, and the 10 Tips for a Successful Interview. Led by Wendy Feik Pinkerton, MS, senior partner at Demeter Communications, her sometimes unorthodox methods of presenting information will both captivate and educate.

Young Entrepreneur Program, Friday, Jan. 29 and Saturday, Jan. 30
The Young Entrepreneurs have put together a two-part program for this year’s gathering. Friday afternoon will have an industry-wide focus and Saturday will encompass producer issues, successes and opportunities. Social media, wool and lamb direct-marketing opportunities, political action updates and round-table discussions will all have a place on the agenda. All sheep producers between the ages of 25 and 40 are encouraged to attend.

A $200 registration discount is available to young entrepreneur registrants. Repeat awardees must be a member of their state association. Contact ASI for information.

Lunch Speaker Jim Bob Solsbery, Saturday, Jan. 30: 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Jim Bob Solsbery’s “humor with a message” approach has been connecting with audiences for more than 30 years. Hailing from Texas, he succeeded as a business owner and entrepreneur, educator, professional trainer and even an executive director for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. He’s learned that successful and happy people share two traits: a positive attitude and a healthy sense of humor. “Humor is more than making people laugh -- It is an Attitude,” he says. You’ll enjoy Jim Bob’s humor and stories while discovering an effective way to lead a richer, more productive life.

Arizona Ag Tour, Wednesday, Jan. 27: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
See how raising sheep is done in the Southwest by visiting the Auza Ranch owned by Joe, Carmen, Joseph and Tammy Auza. By the end of January, most of the ewes will have lambed and will be grazing on 40-acre sized irrigated alfalfa fields. The sheep winter in the ‘Valley’ and move to the Williams area in the summer. From the Auza’s, a brief stop at a Cotton Gin will provide an opportunity see how the ‘other’ natural fiber – cotton – is processed. From there, the Caywood Family will welcome you to their fourth-generation cotton farm where they also raise forage crops. Then sit back and enjoy a hayride through the property and an authentic Arizona lunch.

American Goat Federation Producer Seminar, Wednesday, Jan. 27: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
The American Goat Federation is offering a series of seminars – come for the day or pick-and-choose your sessions. Topics include: New Regulations for Use of Antibiotics in Livestock; Status of Research Projects Beneficial to Small Ruminants; Review of EPD/EVD Programs for Goats; Marketing Opportunities; Scrapie Eradication Proposed Changes; Grant Opportunities for Small Ruminant Producers; How to Meet Requirements for Grant Applications; Hands on Grant Writing Practice Sessions.

MIWW Banquet and Fashion Show, Saturday, January 30: 6 – 9 p.m.
Ticket Included in Full, Friday/Saturday or Saturday Registrations; Extra Tickets: $50 – Banquet and Fashion Show; $20 – Fashion Show Only
The National Make It With Wool contestants will once again vie for the title of Junior and Senior Wool Ambassador during the ASI convention with winners being announced at the end of the Fashion Show. Plan to attend to cheer on your state winners as they compete for the national title.

Other Diversions

Turf Paradise – Back Stretch Barn Tour, Saturday, Jan. 30: 9:15 a.m.

The White Shirt Museum Tour, Saturday, Jan. 30: 9:15 a.m.

Industry Golf Tournament Hosted by NLFA, Saturday, Jan. 30: 9 a.m.

To Register, Call 303-771-3500 or visit SheepUSA.org.