Iowa Poultry Association (IPA) celebrated its 50th Fall Festival and Annual Meeting, including three days of educational programs, and an awards celebration, all held virtually. The Bob Springer Golf Tournament and the Chicken and Pigeons Clay Shoot were held in person.
Over the course of two weeks, educational programs were held via webinar, covering topics from poultry nutrition and health to cage-free issues, and the labor dilemma. The Emerging Leader program participants hosted the pre-conference program, presenting virtually, but as teams, covering different topics facing the poultry industry. IPA members joined a reception and happy hour – via webinar!
The programs concluded with a virtual visit from Governor Kim Reynolds, Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig, and an awards program. Dr. Bernie Beckman, director of technical services for Hy-Line North America was awarded the Hall of Fame award. “Bernie has been a tremendous asset and resource for the Iowa Poultry Association and the poultry and egg industry,” said Kevin Stiles, CEO and Executive Director of the Iowa Poultry Association. Pete Block, President of Hy-Line North America, stated, “He is well-deserved of this distinguished award. Bernie is passionate for the health and welfare for our chickens. When I’m with Bernie with a flock, I always learn something new. Congratulations, Dr. Beckman.”
Dr. Sue Lamont, a C. F. Curtiss Distinguished Professor of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, and Jeff Coit, Vice President and Poultry Industry Specialist at Farm Credit Services of America in Sioux Falls, South Dakota were awarded Honorary Member awards. Kevin Stiles stated, “While Jeff Coit and Dr. Lamont bring different talents to the poultry community, both have made priceless contributions to our industry, and both have benefitted Iowa poultry and egg farmers. We thank them both for their efforts, and we enjoyed presenting them with their well-deserved awards.”
