Eastern Indiana livestock breeders association honors youth and leaders

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

The Eastern Indiana Livestock Breeders Association held its 97th annual meeting in Muncie, Indiana to honor youth and livestock breeders in the area. The association recognizes the top 4-H junior leader, top youth in livestock judging, and a young person who excels at their county fair from each county served. Adults who excelled at livestock shows or in the livestock industry are also recognized.

Cindy Jeffrey, president of the association, says that the group is smaller today than it once was due to changes in the livestock industry, but it continues to meet and honor youth and recognize achievements of livestock breeders in the area.

William Carter, vice president of the association, explains that the primary function of the group is to honor youth from each of the counties represented in the association. Each year, the top 4-H junior leader, top youth in livestock judging, and a young person who excels at their county fair receive a plaque and recognition before the group.

Counties served by the association include Blackford, Delaware, Grant, Henry, Jay, Madison, Randolph, and Wayne. Adults who excelled at livestock shows or in the livestock industry are also recognized. This year, Brian Shuter was recognized for being named the new executive leader for the Indiana Beef Cattle Association. Shuter Sunset Farms is a longtime member of the association. Brian’s grandfather, Mervin, served as its president in 1974 and 1975, and his dad, Mike, was president from 2000 to 2002. The Shuters still exhibit and excel at raising Red Poll and Red Angus cattle.

Currently, 15 livestock producer families make up the association, Jeffrey says. Jeffrey herself operates a Jersey dairy farm. Carter and his family raise Hereford cattle and horned Dorset sheep.

The Eastern Indiana Livestock Breeders Association is a valuable organization that recognizes the achievements of youth and livestock breeders in the area. The association’s annual banquet is a great opportunity to celebrate the livestock industry and the people who make it possible.

Photo Credit: istock-heeby