The 2010 Canadian Milking Shorthorn Society Field Day and AGM was a great success again this year! Milking Shorthorn breeders of today and yesterday met at the farm of Brian and Donna Laughlin and family near Kinburn, Ontario in the National Capital Region. At the height of the day, over 50 guests enjoyed the hospitality of the Laughlin family and viewed the growing Laughlin Milking Shorthorn herd. Milking Shorthorns first came to the Laughlin herd in only 2006, but this 35 cow herd is now almost entirely comprised of Shorthorns. Brian has been quick to tell neighbours and visitors that the introduction of Milking Shorthorns to the herd has been very positive, as he enjoys the quiet temperament of the cows coupled with lower veterinary costs and lower purchased feed costs.

A judging class of Two Year Olds was held in the morning and generated some good discussion. Official Judge for the class was CMSS President Fred Barrett. Afterward, guests inspected the Laughlin herd in the barn yard. A variety of sires are represented in the herd, with daughters of Titan and Storm Ruler being particularly noteworthy.

A noon meal was then held on the front lawn, generously sponsored by the Laughlin family. This was followed by presentation of production award certificates. A full list of these winners can be found in the 2010 Improver magazine, available on the CMSS website. The presentation of the 2010 Cow of the Year Award was then presented by incoming President John Knox to Fred Barrett, owner of Fieldcrest Ideal EX. This was followed by a presentation of a commemorative plaque to the 2010 CMSS Distinguished Service Award winner, Keith Barrett of Oceanbrae Milking Shorthorns of Belmont, Prince Edward Island.

Award presentations were followed by a lively fun auction, with Fred Barrett reprising his 2009 role as auctioneer and Adrian Straathof and David Smith assisting in taking bids. This auction raised over $850 toward CMSS programs.

Finally, the day was capped by the 2010 Annual General Meeting of the CMSS. Secretary Ryan Barrett tabled committee and financial reports from 2009 and members had the opportunity to ask questions about the services and programs of the CMSS. Jenna Kippen was introduced as the newest CMSS Board Director, taking over from Doug Wherry who did not seek another term. Doug was thanked for his notable service to the Board and particularly the Show Committee. John Knox of Knoxdale Farms, Fenelon Falls, ON was also introduced as the incoming President of the CMSS, with Dave Prinzen of Prinsville Dairy Farms, Bloomfield, ON accepting the position of Vice President.

Special thanks to our major sponsor for the event - The Semex Alliance. Semex acts as a valued sponsor the CMSS Field Day and AGM as well as a partner in the CMSS Young Sire Syndicates program. Huge thanks as well to the Laughlin family for hosting this top-notch event!

A full album of photos is available on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/milkingshorthorn