The Drover The Drover The Drover
SPECIAL NEWS UPDATE: NEW WORLD SCREWWORM
Dear Member of the International Texas Longhorn Association,
I am writing to encourage awareness and preparedness regarding the ongoing threat posed by the New World screwworm, a parasitic fly whose larvae invade open wounds and cause severe and sometimes fatal complications in livestock. As you are aware, Texas Longhorn cattle are known for their hardiness and adaptability, but they are not immune to screwworm infestations. Recent discussions about the potential spread or reintroduction of screwworm populations in North America highlight the importance of vigilance among cattle producers. Early detection remains critical.
Signs of infestation may include:
Unusual wound drainage or enlargement.
Foul odor from wounds.
Visible larvae in the affected tissue.
Restlessness, loss of appetite, or isolation from the herd.
The infestation area is changing rapidly, and the Texas Animal Health Commission recommends visiting screwworm.gov for the most recent cases and spread data. Be aware, and keep health records with you at all times while transporting livestock. At the time of this writing, there is no ban on the movement of livestock within the state. It is your responsibility as a breeder to stay up to date on the latest information provided at the site above.
Please be assured that the ITLA is communicating with state officials, veterinarians and other organizations. We will notify members if we are required to make changes for the ITLA Championship Show in October. As of right now, all plans are still in place.
The International Texas Longhorn Association has long played an important role in supporting education and stewardship for our breeders. I encourage all Longhorn breeders to regularly inspect their cattle, promptly treat wounds, and report any suspected cases to their veterinarian and appropriate health authorities. Maintaining strong biosecurity practices and staying informed through state and federal animal health agencies will help protect our herds and the broader livestock industry. Continued communication regarding animal health threats, such as screwworms, can help ensure the health and sustainablility of Texas Longhorn cattle for future generations.
Thank you for your dedication to the preservations and advancement of this iconic breed.
-Jeremy Johnson
A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
214- 287-2303
brad@westmorelandlawfirm com www gangof5longhorns com
Riding for the Brand
My favorite movie of all time is Conagher, based on the book by Louis L’Amour. It may be the only instance where the movie is better than the book; but in my mind that’s largely do to Sam Elliott – who masterfully plays the leading role of Conn Conagher. At one point in the the movie Conagher goes to work riding line for an old bachelor named Seaborn Tay (If you raise Texas Longhorns and do not know what “riding line” is, Google it to avoid future embarrassment in ranching conversations.) After an especially hard day of pushing back strays and scaring off rustlers, Conagher lets Mr Tay know that trouble is brewing. Mr. Tay inquires whether he can count on Conager to help him in the hard days to come. In response, Conagher delivers my favorite quote outside of holy scripture: “I take a man’s money Mr Tay, I ride for the brand”
If you “ride for the brand,” that means you are loyal. It’s sometimes hard to find loyalty these days, isn’t it? Riding for the brand means that you give all your effort, your time, and your energy to the one to whom you owe these things – whether because they employ you, they hired you, they elected you, they helped you, or they married you.
AsITLAPresidentIamsometimesapproachedbyfolkswhoclaimtohavesplitloyaltiesbetweenthe twobigTexasLonghornassociations;whichisapolitewayofsayingtheyhavenotrueloyaltytoeither. Theyoftendowhatisbestforthemselves,notnecessarilywhatisbestfortheirpreferredassociationor even the Texas Longhorn breed as a whole. They complain that the ITLA and our chief competitor “cannot get along” and they use phrases like “we all love Longhorns,” and “we should all be working togethertobetterthebreed”Thosearenicesentiments,butIamgoingtocallaspadeaspade:there are vast differences between the ITLA and every other cattle association out there. I’ve been involved withothers I’vebeenaskedtoserveontheboardsofothers Ivolunteersignificantamountsofmytime totheITLA,becauseofallassociationsouttheretheITLAhasitfiguredoutthebest–notperfectly–but the best. You want to improve the breed because you love Texas Longhorns? Help make this Associaiton better We need you We need your creativity We need your energy We need your time Everysingleoneofourmembershadbetterholdme,andtherestofyourelectedInternationalBoard and Youth Board officers to a high standard of serving the ITLA and nothing else. It’s what we were electedtodo Electedleadersshouldrideforthebrand Ifanyofusfailtodothat,voteusout
Having said that, there are certainly very good people on our leading competitor’s board of directors, and lots of good folks are heavily involved in both big associations Some do that to expose their youth to more events, to expose their cattle to more shows, etc --which is understandable I am certainly all for cooperation and getting along –when it benefits the ITLA – and early on initiated communications with the other big association’s CEO about exactly that. I’m sure we’ll continue talking. But make no mistake: it is the ITLA that has the best, clearest, most viable vision for the improvement and protection of the Texas Longhorn breed. So, moving our Association forward is the best way to improve the breed. Yes, as long as I am on this Board, I ride for the brand. Where do your loyalties lie? We’d like them to lie with us and are working hard to make the IT
I ote your me and m joy You me, and I Th ow we w nd Fath
“The Texas Longhorn made more history than any “The Texas Longhorn made more history than any “The Texas Longhorn made more history than any other breed of cattle the civilized world has known.” other breed of cattle the civilized world has known.” other breed of cattle the civilized world has known.” -J. Frank Dobie -J. Frank Dobie -J. Frank Dobie
FORINTERNATIONALCHAMPIONSHIPSHOW
STEERS & RIDERS FOR GRAND ENTRY EACH DAY
RING STEWARDS (CONTROL CATTLE IN THE SHOW RING)
RUNNERS (LIASION BETWEEN JUDGES & ANNOUNCERS)
MAKE READY WORKERS (HELP ORGANIZE CLASS ENTERING THE RING)
FUTURITY MEAL/THURSDAY CONCERT SET-UP & ORGANIZERS
SATURDAY CONCERT TICKETS/WRISTBAND MANAGER
PANEL WRANGLERS (SET-UP BEFORE SHOW & TEAR DOWN AFTER)
FORINTERNATIONALCHAMPIONSHIPSHOW
AWARDS TRANSPORT/ORGANIZERS
LADIES SHOPPING EXCURSION MANAGER
ADULT SHOWMANSHIP SIGN-UP MANAGER
ITLA MERCHANDISE SALESPERSONS
2026 International Championship Show
Volunteer Sign Up Form
FullName:
PhoneNumber:
Email:
Pleaseplacean“X”nexttothearea/dateyouwouldliketovolunteerfor.
_____ Wed, Oct 7th
_____ Thur. Oct 8th
_____ Fri. Oct 9th _____Sat.Oct10th
Steer&RidersFor GrandEntry EachDay RingStewards (Control cattle in the show ring) Runners (Liaison between Judges & Announcers) (6 spots available) _____Wed,Oct7th _____Thur.Oct8th _____Fri.Oct9th _____Sat.Oct10th
ITLAMerchandise Salesperson
MakeReady Workers (Helporganize class
PanelWranglers
(Set-up before show& tear down after)
Sun.Oct12th enteringthe ring)
Wed, Oct 7th
UNLIMITED SPOTS UNLIMITED SPOTS (2 spots available per day) (12 spots available) (3 spots available
_____ Wed, Oct 7th
_____ Thur. Oct 8th
_____ Fri. Oct 9th
_____Sat.Oct10th _____ Wed, Oct 7th _____ Thur. Oct 8th
AwardsTransport/ Organizer
spot available)
InternationalPhoto ContestVideographer
Fri. Oct 9th
Sat.Oct10th
Manager&Scorekeeper forthe2ndAnnual CornfedCattleCornhole Competition
Thur.Oct8th
VendorsManager
Tue.Oct6th
Thur. Oct 8th
Fri. Oct 9th
Sat.Oct10th
FuturityMeal/ ThursdayConcert Set-Up&Organizers
SaturdayConcert Tickets/Wristband Manager
Thur.Oct8th
LadiesShopping ExcursionManager
Sat.Oct10th
AdultShowmanship Sign-UpManager
SilentAuction Organizer
ShavingsManager
spot available)
LiveAuctionOrganizer
spot available)
Iacknowledgethatbysigninguptovolunteerforthe2026InternationalChampionshipShow&Convention,Iamcommittingtothe area(s)anddate(s)Ihaveselected.Iunderstandthatmyparticipationisimportanttothesuccessofthe2026International ChampionshipShow&Conventionandagreetofulfillmyassignedresponsibilities.IfIamunabletovolunteeronmyselected date(s),itismyresponsibilitytoarrangeforasuitablereplacementandnotifytheeventorganizersofthechange.
Signature:
PleasesubmitthiscompletedvolunteerformtotheITLAHeadquartersOfficebyemailormail.
ITLA July Print Drover
Advertising Form
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(Please mail to PO Box 2610 Glen Rose, TX76043)
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Imagineourhistorywithnocowboysorcowgirls Andnocurrent-daycowfolkaswell: There’dbenolinedances,notwosteppin’whirls AndnodrivesupthelongChisholmTrail. NoJerryJeffWalker.NoWillieorWaylon. NoAutry,Rogers,orEvans. NoLouisL’Amour,noDobie,noKelton.
No“CoolWater,”no“Mammas,”or“OldBlevins.” You’dseenocowboybootsorstrawStetsonhat Nopearlsnapsorgoodpairofjeans. NoTexasRangerwouldstepuptothebat, Andthere’dbeno“America’sTeam.” There’dbenorodeos.NoPBRthrills. Noleatherforpursesorshoes. There’dbeneitherhamburgers,norsteaksforourgrills Andnofinewesternstorestoperuse. LikelynoAlamotorecallswelledwithpride. NorgoldrushtoCalifornia,obsessed. NoEarpswhohadshot,orgunfighterswhodied FortherewouldsimplybenoOldWest. There’dbefewerchurches,ofthatIamsure. Fewermenwho’dstandstrongandworkhard. Fewerwomenwhoknowwhatitmeanstobepure. Fewersoldierstofightandstandguard. Whatasadnationwe’dhavewithoutthosewholoveland Andlovecattle,thelife,andthelore. Solet’sgive‘emsupport,andlet’slend‘emahand Lesttheseheroeswelovearenomore.
--J.T.“Elliott”McCloud
have you placed your ad yet?
BY: CRAIG PEREZ
The auction block is often a theater of the obvious. When a “household name” cow walks into the ring, the bidding is fast and expensive. Most believe outspending the competition is the only path to the top. But for those who have spent twenty years analyzing the underlying data, there is a hidden variable at play: The Invisible Decimal.
In my two decades of manually recording tens of thousands of measurements, I have t a singledestination–it’sachoicebetweentwohigh-stakesstrategies.
FindingtheDiamondintheRough
Consider Mike Casey. Still a presence in the breed’s genetic legacy, Casey learnedthehardwaythatchasing“ready-made”superstarscanleadtoheavylosses ifyoudon’tunderstandthe“why”behindtheprice.
He pivoted, targeting animals the “big buyers” ignored – cows that weren’t flashy unknown programs but possessed massive horn potential or rock-solid pedigrees. By pairing these undervalued “Foundation Dams” with elite sires, he engineered a value explosion. He turned low-investment assets into superstars whose offspringcommandedpricesfarbeyondtheirdams’initialcosts.Hewasbuyingthefutureatadiscount.
BuyingtheShortcuttoExcellence
On the other side of the coin is Wayne Manning. Manning entered the industry and spared no expense to assembleanelite,eclecticherd.Hedidn’tjustbuycattle;heboughtVelocity
I remember driving through his herd and asking him which cow was his least favorite. He couldn’t answer. When your “floor” is the best of the best, even your “worst” animal is a benchmark for others. By investing at the topofthemarketupfront,Manningeffectivelycircumventedyearsoftrial,error,andthe“buildingphase”.
Whenyoustartwithageneticpeak,youdon’thavetobearocket scientisttoproduceresults–thegeneticsdotheheavyliftingfor you. Overtime,Manning’seyeandheartnaturallyrefinedthiseclecticmix into a specific, high-performing style. He didn’t just build a herd; he built an Alliance. By standing with other breeders who share a unifed vision, he transitioned from an individual buyer to a pillar ofgeneticmovement.
20,000HoursofProof
Whether you are a “Detective” like Casey or an “Architect” like Manning, the success of both strategies relies onthesamefoundation:ImpartialData.
For twenty years, I have lived in the quiet world of data. The Gallery of Horns and Gallery Factoids exist because I spent tens of thousands of hours manually protecting the breed’s history This work allows you to see the “Decimal”thatproveswhya$4,500cowisastealorwhya$45,000cowisabargain.
TheCaseyMethodusesmydatatofindthe“Signal”inthenoiseofunknownpedigrees.
TheManningMethodusedthedatatovalidatethe“Peak,”ensuringthatahigh-dollarinvestmentisa calculatedacquisitionofspeed,notagamble.
TheFinalTally
Value isn’ something you find e roar of the crowd; it’s something you identify in the quiet of research. It is the difference between buying a name and building a legacy. Whether you are hunting for diamonds or anchoringyourbrandwiththebest,the“InvisibleDecimal”isthemapthatensuresyouarriveatyourdestination.
Theledgerisopen.Thedataiswaiting.Whatwillyoubuildwithit?
About the Author: Craig Perez is the owner of Arrowhead Cattle Company – the home of the Gallery of Horns He has over 20 years invested in the love, passion and non-biased promotion of registered Texas Longhorn cattle. Craig is also a former ITLA employee where he served as the Office Manager of the ITLA’s Headquarters in Glen Rose, Texas. He is a Lifetime Member of the ITLA Look for more of his articles in future issues of the Longhorn Drover.
TEXAS LONGHORNS
A M E R I C A ’ S B R E E D
AsadiehardDallas Cowboy’sfan,I’veoftenwonderedwhatfansofotherprofessional footballteams thinkabout the Cowboys having cornered the market onthe nickname “America’s Team.” Does that anger the Steeler’s fans? Do fans of the Jets turn “Gotham green” when they hear that from the folks on Sportscenter? I may never know. What I do know is that the Texas Longhorn breed of cattle, without question or debate, is most deserving of the title “America’s Breed.” During this new series of articles which will be written with a mind toward America’s 250-year history, we will explore why I can boldly make that statement without excuse or waver. In this first article, let us explore the Texas Longhorn’s origin story, so that we can later have a better understanding of how it fits so seamlesslyintoAmerica’s.
The Texas Longhorn animal of today is, at least in part, a descendant of Spanish criollo cattle brought to the Americas in 1493 during the second voyage of Christopher Columbus. It is recorded that at that time the first criollo cattle were offloaded at the island of Hispaniola (now known as Haiti and the Dominican Republic). These were the first cattle in North American, with neither North nor South America having any native bovine species. They were knownforgreatgeneticdiversityandtheabilitytowithstandharshclimatic conditions.Criollocattlealsoreproduced quickly; and soon thereafter the Spanish settlers had established large herds, sometimes numbering 10,000 head or more, which they moved into what was known as “New Spain” (now Central America, Mexico, and ultimately into theTexas/Louisianaterritories.)
TheSpanishgovernmentattemptedtoimposerestrictionsoncattleproduction;butthevastopenrangesofthenew world made enforcement of those restrictions impossible. Many cattle quickly escaped their often-rudimentary confines, while others were intentionally turned loose to establish feral herds. The result was cattle-gone-wild, left to their own devices to adapt to their new, sometimes harsh environments through means of natural selection and survivalofthethefittest.
Nearly150yearswouldpassbeforeanyEnglishcattlebreedswouldbeimportedtoNorthAmerica,bywhichtime wild criollos had been in modern day Texas for more than 100 years. The 1620s saw the importation of the English longhornbreedofcattle(thinkofhornsoftencurvingforwardandinwardtowardthenose)intotheEasternAmerican colonies. Likewise, Devon cattle (or “Red Rubies”) were first imported into the New England colonies in 1623. These cattle, and other, later-imported English and European breeds eventually made their way south and west, as colonistthemselvespushedintothosenewfrontiers,wheretheyinevitablycameincontactwiththewildcriollocattle
which by this time had been surviving in the Southwest’s sagebrush and scree for 200 years or more. These contacts resulted in interbreeding, as did the introduction of Mexico’s developed breed of Corriente cattle which were introducedintowhatisnowTexasinthelate16 century. th
“ThusitwasthatMexico,Texas,andwhatwasthentheLouisianaPurchasebecamethemajorblendingpotforthe evolution of this history-making Texas Longhorn breed of cattle. Old-timers contend the big horns, speckled colors and body types were derived from importation to the States out of the Longhorn Herefords of England. Others believed the blue roan and speckled stock reflected early Durham (shorthorn) introductions. The Spanish influence wasrepresentedbydrab,earthtonecolors.”
Although Spanish-influenced cattle of the long-horned variety provided the basic building blocks of the modern Texas Longhorn, legendary historian and author J. Frank Dobie simply concluded that an infiltration of cattle mixed American blood contributed to the evolution of the Texas Longhorn, which is his estimation are compromised of roughly 80% Spanish influence and 20% mongrel influence. Mr. Dobie also humbly opined that “Selective breeding, someoutsideblood,adifferenceinrange,andperhapsotherfactors–unknowntome–madetheTexan(Longhorn)a rangier,mightier-hornedandheavieranimalthanthestraightMexican(Corriente).”
So, we are left with mighty Texas Longhorn: honed from harsh weather like and ancient oak. Recipient and perfecter of genetic diversity from a mix of fine breeds. Survivor and forger ofAmerican Southwest – and beyond –aswewillseeinfuturearticles. It’snotEnglish.It’snotSpanish.It’snotMexican.Itistruly America’s Breed.”
“The Texas Longhorn made more history than any other breed of cattle the civilized world has known As an animal in the realm of natural history, he was the peer of bison or grizzly bear. As a social factor, his influence on men was extraordinary. An economic agent in determining the character and occupation of a territory continental in its vastness, he moved elementally with drouth, grass, blizzards out of the Arctic and the wind from the south However supplanted or however disparaged by evolving standards and generations, he will remain the bedrock on which the history of the cow country of America is founded.”
- J Frank Dobie, The Longhorns (1941)
COMMITtEES 2026
Breed Standards Committee: Dr. Keith Berkeley and Mike Tomey (co-Chairs)
Drover Oversight: Brad Westmoreland (chair)
Futurity: John Oliver and Gary Lake (co-Chairs)
IT/Computer: Kirk Dickinson (chair), with members Gary Lake and Micha Hammersky
By-Laws: Shadow Seaman (chair), with members Brett Kot, Brad Westmoreland & tony frazier
Youth: Meagan Minchew (chair)
mini longhorns: j.a. Thomas (chair) with member: Kyle rogers
Beef: Travis Casey (chair)
Marketing and Events: pending
2026 Championship Show: Larry Smith (chair)
WITh members heatherly smith, russ thompson, Travis Casey, andrea candish, Brett Kot, John and Brenda Oliver, Brad Westmoreland, anne westmoreland, evie westmoreland and megan minchew
Affiliates: Doug and Sara Burris (co-Chairs) with member russ Thompson
Judges Oversight: Larry Smith (chair) with member john moxley
Show Rules: John Oliver and John Moxley (co-Chairs)
with members Shadow Seaman and Larry Smith
awards: brad westmoreland and amy mast (co-chair) with members Brett kot and kenzie woycheshin
interested in participating in any of these committees?
please contact the noted Chair and/or Pres. Brad Westmoreland we WOULD WELCOME YOUR HELP!
DearITLAMembers, HappyJune!
I hope everyone is enjoying the start of summer and finding time to enjoy their Longhorns, attend events, and spend time with family and friends. It has been another busy month at the ITLA Headquarters Office, and Sydney and I have been working hard to continue serving our members andpreparingfortheexcitingmonthsahead.
As many of you know, we recently released the 2026 International Championship Show & ConventionEntryPacket.Weareincrediblyexcitedforthisyear'seventinGlenRose,Texas,andlook forwardtowelcomingmembersfromacrossthecountrythisOctober Ifyouhavenotyetreviewed the packet, now is a great time to begin planning your entries, sponsorships, and travel accommodations.Additionaleventinformationwillcontinuetobesharedthroughoutthesummer. We are also actively working on the July Print Drover, which will include the 2026 ITLA Membership Directory.Thisdirectoryisavaluableresourceforourmembership,andweencouragemembersto take advantage of enhancement opportunities available for their listings. Whether you choose to highlight your listing, add your brand, or purchase advertising space, these enhancements are a greatwaytoincreasevisibilityforyourranchorbusiness
The Headquarters Office continues to process registrations, transfers, memberships, work orders, andcertificaterequestsdaily Weappreciateeveryone'spatienceaswecontinueworkingthrougha high volume of requests while also implementing improvements to our systems and member services. Our goal remains the same—to provide timely, accurate service while continually enhancingthememberexperience.
As always, thank you for your continued support of the International Texas Longhorn Association. This association is built by its members, and we are grateful for each of you. Whether you are a longtime breeder, a new member, an exhibitor, or simply a supporter of the Texas Longhorn breed, youplayanimportantroleinpreservingandpromotingthisincredibleindustry
If Sydney or I can assist you in any way, please do not hesitate to contact the ITLA Headquarters Office Wearealwayshappytohelp Wehopeyouhaveasafe,successful,andenjoyablesummer,andwelookforwardtoseeingmany ofyouatupcomingevents.
Sincerely,
KenzieWoycheshin OfficeAdministrator
INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW & CONVENTION
Hooves, Horns & Heritage Hooves, Horns & Heritage Hooves, Horns & Heritage
THE EXPO - GLEN ROSE, TEXAS
TUESDAY - OCTOBER 6TH
WEDNESDAY - OCTOBER 7TH
8:00 AM - CHAMPIONSHIP NON-HALTERED, WITH CALL OF THE HORNS MEASURING AND BULL BONANZATO COMMENCE UPON COMMENCE UPON COMPLETION
2:00 PM - SEMINAR BY SHADOW SEAMAN: “BUILDING AND EXPANDING YOUR AFFILIATE YOUTH GROUPWITH 4H”
3:00 PM - AFFILIATE PRESIDENTS’ MEETING
6:00 PM - HEADQUARTERS SOCIAL
THURSDAY - OCTOBER 8TH
8:00 AM - CHAMPIONSHIP FUTURITY/CALCUTTA
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM - LADIES SHOPPING EXCURSION
1:30 PM - BEGIN YOUTH SPEECH CONTEST (MAKEUPWILL BE OFFERED ON FRIDAY FOR THOSE UNABLE TO PARTICIPATE ON THURSDAY)
2:00 PM - 2 ANNUAL CORNFED CATTLE CORNHOLE COMPETITION (TO BENEFIT YOUTH) ND
5:00 PM - ELITE HEIFER SALE
6:00 PM - (OR TO IMMEDIATELY FOLLOW EHS) - FUTURITY DINNER, CALCUTTA AWARDS, LIVE AUCTION & GARY P. NUNN CONCERT (BANQUET HALL)
FRIDAY - OCTOBER 9TH 12:00 NOON - 7:00 PM - RECEIVE CATTLE
( A SOMEWHAT FLOATING SCHEDULE)
8:00 AM - CHAMPIONSHIP HALTERED SHOW TO FOLLOWTHE HALTERED SHOW - YOUTH SHOWMANSHIP TO FOLLOWYOUTH SHOWMANSHIP - YOUTH SHOW (BULLS ONLY)
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM - YOUTH MAKEUP SPEECHES
2:00PM - INTERNATIONAL PHOTO JUDGING CONTEST
3:30 PM - QUEEN COURT INTERVIEWS
4:30 PM - (OR 20 MINUTES AFTER COMPLETION OF THE YOUTH BULL SHOW) YOUTH GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING - PIZZA PROVIDED!
4:30 PM - (OR 20 MINUTES AFTER COMPLETION OF THE YOUTH BULL SHOW) MEMBERSHIP MEETING/BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING WITH PIZZA & COFFEE
5:30 PM - YOUTH TEAM JUDGING
6:30 PM - (OR TO FOLLOWYOUTH TEAM JUDGING) - ADULT SHOWMANSHIP
7:30 PM - (OR TO FOLLOWYOUTH TEAM JUDGING) - YOUTH GROUP PHOTO
SATURDAY - OCTOBER 10TH
8:00 AM - YOUTH SHOW (FEMALES AND STEERS)
1:00 PM - SEMINAR BY KENZIE CUNEFARE: “BEHIND THE LEGACY: UNDERSTANDING ITLA MEMBERSHIPAND SERVICES”
4:00 PM - QUEEN COURT PRESENTATION & AWARDS BANQUET (BANQUET TO START BY NO LATER THAN 5:00 PM
KEYNOTE SPEAKER IS TEXAS HISTORIAN RICHARD MCCASLIN)
8:00 PM - ‘TIL THE COWS COME HOME - ITLA/TEXAS AMPHITHEATER CONCERT
SUNDAY - OCTOBER 11TH
CATTLE (AND VENDORS) MUST BE LOADED OUT BY NOON
IMPORTANT DEADLINES
5:00 PM WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 : DEADLINE BYWHICH ALL BULL BONANZA, FUTURITY, CALL OF HORNS, INTERNATIONAL PHOTO CONTEST, HALTERED, NON-HALTERED, AND YOUTH SHOW ENTRIES MUST B E RECEIVED. ENTRIES NOT RECEIVED BY THIS DATE MAY EITHER BE REJECTED ORA LATE PENALTY OF $25.00 PER ENTRY MAY BE IMPOSSED, AT THE DISCRETION OF THE SHOW COMMITTEE. PLEASE GETYOUR ENTRIES SUBMITTED ON TIME TO MAXIMIZE THE QUALITYAND EFFCIENCY OF OUR SHOW FORALL CONCERNED. TH END OF DAY, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 : DEADLINE BYWHICH ALL YOUTH SPEECH CONTECTWRITTEN SUBMISSIONS MUST BE TURNED IN.
RD END OF DAY, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9 : DEADLINE BYWHICH ALLYOUTH ART/PHOTO ENTRIES MUST BE TURNED IN.
TH 9:00 AM, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9 : DEADLINE BYWHICH ALL YOUTH TEAM JUDGING, YOUTH SHOWMANSHIPAND ADULT SHOWMANSHIP SIGN-UPS MUST BE MADE.
sageinbloomart@gmail.com https://sites.google.com/view/sageinbloomart/ Originalartorcustomartfromyourphotosoryourimagination!
I cannot believe we are closing in on the halfway point of 2026! With lots wonderful Longhorn shows in the first half, the second half is shaping up to be just as big! We have so many fun things happening not just this month but for the rest of the year. Let’s recap:
JUNE 1 - Youth Officer applications are OPEN!
JULY 1 - Candidates announced and campaigning begins
SEPTEMBER 1 - Voting begins.
OCTOBER 9 - New Officers announced.
Our current officers have worked tirelessly for all of you with fundraising, new ideas, event planning, judging and showmanship clinics, etc. They have set a precedent for the incoming officers, and they are big boots to fill but fear not. I KNOW our next group will shine just as brightly.
Do you have big ideas? Do you have solutions to current issues? GREAT! We’re looking for you! There are 5 different positions: President (13-17 years old), Vice President (13-17 years old), Reporter (Teen Division), and Ambassadors (any age).
Now that we ’ ve got business out of the way, let’s chat.
First and foremost, I want to take a minute to thank our current officers. To Alissa, Anthony, Chapel, Anabelle, and Tucker: you have done a SUPERB job. In my wildest dreams, I never thought the first set of officers (after taking a long break from elections) would be my dream team but here we are! You all have worked so hard and I couldn’t be more proud of each of you.
Next, I am proud of the youth group as a whole. We have a LOT of new faces and while I haven’t been able to personally meet and interact with each of you, I want you to know that your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed. I watched in awe at Champ Show 2025 as youth members from across the country not just competed with each other but worked together for a bigger goal. For those of you that consistently offered me help when you saw me running around like a crazy person, THANK YOU. For those of you who entered every single event, I SEE YOU.
If I could use one word to describe my goal for this youth group, it would be synergy. The dictionary says that synergy means “the interaction of two or more entities/people to produce a combined effect that is greater than the sum of their individual effects.”
What do I mean? I think individually, you are all AMAZING and you can and will do big things. But working together towards a common goal? You kiddos could take over the Longhorn world! That’s what I want for you because 20-30-50 years from now, YOU will be the driving force of the International Texas Longhorn Association. The President will be one of you, the Board seats will be you, the Chairman positions will be you. What could better prepare you for those positions than running for and being a youth officer?
I will end this note by saying that the ITLA shaped who I am in every sense of the word It taught me integrity, commitment, loyalty, and hard work which are all things that have propelled me into the life I live now, which is beautiful. Don’t take being in the youth group for granted, it’s an honor and a privilege.
Until the cows come home, Meagan Minchew
in the ITLA Youth e around the show and memories that
When I first joined the youth program, I felt like an outsider. I never pictured myself as an officer, let alone running for president. Leasdership was not something I actively pursued, and I was content simply being involved. However, over time, other memebers and advisors encourages me to step outside of my comfort zone. They saw something in me that I did not see in myself. I realized I wanted to help make a difference and watch out youth organization continue to grow and succeed.
Taking that leap and running for office turned out to be one of the best decision that I have ever made. Serving as Youth President has been an incredible experience that has taught me leadership, responsibility, and confidence while allowing me to give back to an organization that has given so much to me.
As election season spproaches, I want to encourage anyone who has considered running for an officer position to submit an application. You do not have to be the loudest person in the room or have years of leadership experience. If I have learned anything, it is that some of the best leaders are the the ones who simply care about making a positiove impact.
This year, I will not be running for president again. Instead, I will be taking a step back and preparing for a new chapter in my life. While it is bittersweet, I am excited to see the next generation of leaders step forward and continue building on what makes this youth program so special.
If you are thinking about running for president but are unsure where to start or do not know how to campaign, please reach out to me. I would be more than happy to help answer questions, share advice, and help you build your campaign. Sometimes all it takes is someone beliveing in you and giving you that little push to get started just like others once did for me.
Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey. The ITLA Youth Program has given me memories and friendships that will last a lifetime, and I will always be grateful for the role it has played in my life.
Sincerely,
Alissa Butler ITLA YOUTH PRESIDENT
meaningful friendships, but it has also helped me become more confident in myself and my abilities as a showman.
As a member of the youth group, I have gone to many events, activities, and experienced amazing oppurtunities for learning and growth. From fun youth events, to shows in general, every experience has taught me valuable lessons. Being surrounded by motivated and like-minded poeple has always inspired me to work harder to become more involved and step outside of my comfort zone.
Serving as an officer has been both a privliege and a responsibility. Being an officer means more than just a title to me, it means setting an example for others, staying dedicated to ITLA youth, and helping guide others through positivity. I have learned how important communication and leadership are when working with a team. There are times that being an officer has been challenging. Trying to motivate others, or balancing the responsibilites of young adulthood have tested me, but these challenges have helped me realize the level of commitment I have bettering our youth group.
One of the most rewarding challenges of being anf offcier is pushing people to get involoved and take advantage of all the wonderful oppurtunities the youth group has to offer. As election season is approaching, I’d like to take a moment to really emphasize the importance of applying to be an officer. Leadership roles, such as those of youth officers, really help build the confidence, gain experience, and make a difference within the group. I believe every member has something valuable to contribute, and applying to step into a leadership role can help use that potential to make good change.
I encourage everyone to apply, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. The ITLA youth group is a place built for members to support and challenge each other. New leaders bring fresh energy, ideas, and creativity that helps push our organization into the future.
Overall, my time in the ITLA youth group has been an unforgettable experience that has shaped me not only into a better showman, but a better person. I am grateful for all I have gotten to learn, and the friends who have always pushed me to strive for the best. I hope our members will continue to be involoved, be supportive, and most of all, make our organizaton even stronger in the future.
Being involved in the ITLA Youth Program has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. What started as a love for Texas Longhorns has grown into friendships, leadership opportunities, and memories that I will carry with me for years to come.
Over the years, the youth program has given me so much more than experience in the show ring. It has taught me responsibility, confidence, and the importance of serving others. Through youth events, contests, leadership opportunities, and cattle shows, I have had the chance to meet people from all across the country who share the same passion for the breed. Many of these individuals have become some of my closest friends.
Serving as a youth officer has been one of the greatest honors of my time in the ITLA. Being an officer is about more than holding a title it is about representing the youth membership, encouraging participation, and helping create opportunities for others to grow. This position has allowed me to develop leadership skills, work alongside an incredible team, and give back to an organization that has given so much to me.
One of the things I appreciate most about the ITLA Youth Program is the va available to young members. Whether participating in contests, attending event or taking on leadership roles, there are many ways to learn and grow within t experiences help develop skills that extend far beyond the cattle industry and pr success.
As election season approaches, I want to encourage every eligible youth membe for a leadership position. You do not have to be the loudest person in the r experience to make a difference. Leadership comes in many forms, and fresh id organization moving forward. If you have ever thought about serving as an offic take that step and submit an application. You may be surprised by how much yo grow, and the impact you can make.
The future of the ITLA depends on the next generation of leaders, and that incredibly grateful for everything this organization has taught me and for supported me along the way. I look forward to seeing the next group of youth lea continue making the ITLA Youth Program a place where young people can learn, le
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Texas throug
This p showman, but also as a leader and representative for youth in agriculture.
One of the most memorable experiences I had as youth ambassador was traveling to Championship Show. Attending the event allowed me to meet people from many different states who all shared the same passion for Texas Longhorns. Even though we came from different places, we quickly became friends because of our common interest in the breed and the show industry. I enjoyed spending time with other youth exhibitors, learning from experienced breeders, and building friendships that I hope will last for years. During the show, I was also given the opportunity to help judge the adult showmanship competition with my fellow officers. Being trusted with that responsibility taught me how important confidence, fairness, and attention to detail are in the show ring. That experience helped me grow as both a showman and a leader, and it showed me how much I have learned during my years n industry.
Serving with the ITLA youth has helped shape me into a more confident leader and hardworking young person. I have learned lessons that will stay with me for the rest of my life. I am proud to represent the Longhorn industry and hope to continue encouraging other youth to become involved in agriculture.
CODY BAILEY PRESIDENT
(780)352-6144 codylbailey1122@outlook com
DANIELLE
com
(254)630-0053 danielle@whistlingtxlonghorns.com
hicksamericanbulldogs@yahoo com
bjmckee@flash.net BRAD FIDLER PRESIDENT (765)720-0913 mtlapresident00@gmail com
(720)245-1210 carterjhunt21@gmail.com
(240)446-9950 crosswrenchranch@msn.com
DAVID
elkrancher2@gmail com
DOUG BURRIS
(740)680-5973 dougburris45@gmail.com
(262)720-1510 le.longhorncc@gmail.com
cdekens@tcc.on.ca
(208)720-5732 mcmurdocvt@aol.com
Executive Board & Directors
BRAD WESTMORELAND PRESIDENT www gangof5longhorns com 214 287-2303
LARRY SMITH
DIRECTOR AT LARGE #1 larrypsmith2@yahoo.com 254-396-9185
KEITH BERKLEY
TRAVIS J CASEY VICE PRESIDENT kblb@frontiernet net 304-725-4202
GARY LAKE DIRECTOR AT LARGE #2 gary@searleranch.com 719-314-8294
SHADOW SEAMAN
SECRETARY REGION 4 tcasey357@gmail.com 719-650-5234
MICHA HAMERSKY REGION 1 contact@texaslonghorn.at
CRAIG KROEKER REGION 5 victoryranchlonghorns@gmail com 208-428-2484
JEREMY JOHNSON REGION 8 dosninosranch@gmail.com 210-413-2105
BRETT KOT REGION 10 brettkot@hotmail com 1-306-861-1526
REGION 6 ckroeker5536@gmail.com 620-285-5536
JOHN OLIVER REGION 9 joliver210@yahoo com 972-268-0083
RUSSELL FREEMAN PAST PRESIDENT russell@thefreemanranch com 254-396-9185
JOHN MOXLEY TREASURER REGION 2 crosswrenchranch@msn com 240-446-9950
MIKE TOMEY
REGION 3 tomeyfarms@yahoo com 812-583-4622
RUSS THOMPSON REGION 7 russ.thompson13@gmail.com 940-245-1411
I N T E R N A T I O N A L
ToastofTexas ToastofTexas ToastofTexas
BButler Butler utler
As summer arrives the International Texas Longhorn Association remains busy with exciting oppurtunities to connect, compete, and celebrate our breed.
We will have ITLA shows coming up in Missouri and Indiana. These events give exhibitors and families the chance to showcase their cattle, meet fellow Longhorn enthustiasts, and stay involved in the Association.
Looking back on this show season, one highlight was the ITLA Lone Star Classic. The weekend was filled with competition, friendships, and memorable moments. It was also an honor to representthe ITLA as your Queen.
Serving as ITLA Queen has provided incredible oppurtunities to meet exhibitors from across the country, promote the Association, and encourage younger members to get involved. Most importantly, it has allowed me to represent an organization that means so much to me. The Longhorn community is more than just cattle it is a family that supports one another and helps young people grow as leaders.
As we look ahead to the remaining summer shows, I encourage everyone to get involoved, support one another, and enjoy every oppurtunity. Safe travels to those heading to Missouri and Indiana, and I look forward to seeing many of you soon.
Enjoy your summer, and thank you for allowing me the privlege of serving as your Queen.
Sincerely,
Alissa Butler
Queen
AllisonMiner AllisonMiner
Hello again ITLA!
What’s up ITLA! I hope you ’ ve been staying cool in this hot weather. Here at the ranch we ’ ve started prep work for show season. Does anybody remember the heifer I bottle fed named Pumpkin? This year her owners let me show her for the show season. Her real name is Astoria’s Impact, but I just call her Pumpkin. Another thing that’s happening on the ranch is the arrival of a horse that my dad‘s training for a friend of ours. We also banded our bull calves the other day. Other than that, we ’ ve just been doing the usual around here making sure the cows have fresh green grass and clean water.
AllisonMiner
MacenRogers MacenRogers MacenRogers
2026itlalittlemiss
Hey ITLA!
A lot has been going on lately between the summer fun and shows. I love to stay busy though. I’m glad there is a break between shows. Right now, I’m doing Vacation Bible School. It is super fun. My family and I also went to San Antonio to see my cousin who was graduating. We played cards, we swam, and we did a lot of hanging out andcelebrating.
We are planning a super fun 4th of July in Broken Bow with our family. This is our country’s 250th anniversary! That’s really cool. I hope everyone has a great summer and an amazing 4th of July!
Sincerely, Macen Rogers
2026 ITLA Little Miss
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