Q: Your Steering Committee members represent a wide-range of AGR chapters from across the country. Are you surprised at the number of alumni across the country residing in Colorado?

    A: Given the beauty and attractions Colorado offers it isn’t overly surprising. We are fortunate that our Convention Steering Committee includes alumni from across the country. They bring a broad range of AGR experiences to the committee and will have a major impact on the convention’s success and attendance.

    Q: What is your goal for attendance at the convention?

    A: The "Journey Higher" will be an once-in-a-lifetime meeting and vacation experience. While 400 to 450 attendees is the average attendance expectation, we hope to attract closer to the record attendance of 800 in Ohio two years ago. If you haven’t experienced Colorado, then it’s about time and here is a perfect opportunity!

    Q: The theme for the 2006 Convention is "The Journey Higher." The striking landscape of high rocky summits, lush valleys, canyons and charming mountain towns make this year’s convention perfect for summer vacation plans. What are some high country vacation spots you would recommend?

    A: Summertime in Colorado offers everything from hang-gliding, rock-climbing, kayaking, ballooning and some spectacular golf courses. Additionally, there are trails and over high-mountain passes providing spectacular scenery and site seeing. There are abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing. I would encourage you to check out the boundless opportunities at www.Colorado.com or www.Breckenridge.com.

    Q: You served a term as National Undergraduate Director for AGR. Tell us why this convention should be especially attractive for undergraduates?

    A: As an undergraduate, there only a couple of "college year" chances to participate in the National Convention process and I would encourage taking advantage of the rare opportunity. Undergraduates will have a chance to network with alumni young and old and make new bonds of brotherhood that will truly last a lifetime.

    Q: What can attendees expect to bid on at this year’s Convention Auction?

    A: We are planning for the silent and live auctions again this year. They have been a traditional part of the convention and we’re hoping to raise a lot of money for the AGR Educational Foundation. Chapters and alumni are encouraged to make contributions to the auction. Items specific to contributor’s geographic area or chapters are great. Also historical, humorous and items that are a "tad off the wall" add fun and excitement.

    Q: You’ve turned a 25-year meat industry career (King Soopers/Kroger/Red Oak Farms/Future Beef) into a beef industry consulting business. And you recently started a new food manufacturing and distribution business. Tells us about the new company?

    A: My wife, Tami, and I recently founded "Innovative Foods, LLC," which is a Denver based distributor of high quality proteins and specialty food products in Colorado. Our objective is to meet the needs of quality-focused foodservice and retail customers with a focused portfolio of exceptional quality, "branded/brand name" proteins. Additionally, we are preparing to merchandise several products under the "7 Pepper Food Products ®" brand, which are all derived from our homespun recipes.

    Q: You graduated in Animal Science from Colorado State University. How active were you in AGR?

    A: I was very active as a member of the Rho Chapter. I served the offices of Assistant VNR, VNR-Recruitment, and Noble Ruler. I had the additional honor of serving as Undergraduate Director to the National Board. After graduation, I served subsequent roles as Chapter Adviser, and Regional Vice-President in addition to Rho Chapter Alumni Association positions.

    Q: Tell us about your family?

    A: My wife, Tami, and I have two sons; Matt, 29, Livestock Judging Team Coach and associate professor at Colby County Community College in Colby, Kansas-married to Sara; and Tyler, 8, future livestock showman, AGR recruit and (hopefully) major league basketball star.