Brown Swiss Convention Sale averaged $4305 on 85 lots
By ANDREA HAINES
Special for Farmshine
LEBANON, Pa. – Brown Swiss breeders and dairy enthusiasts from across the country gathered here June 24-27 for the National Brown Swiss Convention. An evening of fellowship, history and excitement on the 24th kicked off the festivities.
The convention’s theme “Share the Passion” came to life as guests were treated to a full schedule of activities, education and networking opportunities. Hosted jointly by two neighboring states — Maryland and Pennsylvania — the theme was decidedly appropriate.
Recognizing excellence in the Brown Swiss community, the annual session highlighted several outstanding individuals whose contributions have left a lasting mark on the breed.
Norman C. Magnussen of Lake Mills, Wis., was honored for his years of dedication and service. He will be retiring from his post as the Association’s executive secretary at the end of this year. Allicia Horn of Janesville, Wis. has been named his successor.
Norman’s history with the breed includes growing up on the family-owned Norvic Farm, which was honored with the Master Breeder title in 2011 with his father, Norman E. Magnussen at the helm. For 41 years, he also owned and operated Brown Swiss Sale Service and has had a lifetime affiliation with the breed.
Photo courtesy of Dairy Agenda Today
Jenna Lenhart of Thurmont, Md., was honored as the Outstanding Young Breeder, recognized for her leadership, dedication and passion for advancing the Brown Swiss breed. Jenna and husband, Andrew, operate Peach Kist Farm. She balances motherhood, farming and her full-time position as a regional professional services embryologist manager at TransOva Genetics. In addition, Jenna has had several winning entries in the showring, which earned her All-American nominations and Bell Ringer awards.
Makenna Mase of Cochranton, Pa., was honored with the 2025 National Brown Swiss Ambassador title.
Setting a new convention record, the event’s fun auction raised an impressive $21,000, supporting Brown Swiss programs, youth initiatives and promotional efforts. During the four-day convention, attendees were treated to many historical sites in the Pennsylvania countryside.
Breeder tours went to Northkill Creek Farm of Bernville, Pa., and Windmill Farm of Pine Grove, Pa.
Northkill Creek Farm, owned by the Balthaser Family, is where the notable “Groovy” cow resides. The farm dates back to 1888 and these days the sixth generation is involved. Randy and Traci Balthaser and their daughter, Hannah, work with the cattle and manage the farm. Their son, Mark, and paternal grandfather, Wilson also work on the farm, although Wilson is mostly retired. Northkill Creek Groovy, (3E-EX-95), originated from Randy’s first Brown Swiss. The matriarch was purchased from Windmill Farm (second host farm).
The Daubert Family of Windmill Farm owns and operates one of the country’s largest Brown Swiss farms, and is home to Active Master Breeder Award winner Daubert, who received the honor in 2018.
Over 25 proven bulls carry the Wind Mill prefix and production award winners are also numerous. They continue to be active in their state breed association where Dennis Daubert has served two terms as president.
Iowa Brown Swiss breeders will host the 2026 National Brown Swiss Convention, promoting 100 years of Brown Swiss. An invitation to attend was extended.
National Brown Swiss Sale
The Brown Swiss Convention sale averaged $4305 on 85 lots with buyers from 14 states as well as Canada and The Netherlands.
Lot 40, the highest seller, was a senior 2-year-old named Top Acres Dare Willow ETV. Consigned by Dr. Alan and “Moss” McCauley of Michigan, she sold for $20,000 to Dr. Kenny Jo and Kelly Jo Manion of Kentucky.
The Manions also purchased the second highest seller, Lot 3, Fairdale Daredevil Talia ETV. Consigned by Peter Vail of N.Y., she sold for $15,500.
Brett and Andrea Haines of Maryland consigned the third highest seller, a senior 2-year-old, Brothers Three DLX Wiley ETV. Brent Moyer of Michigan bought her for $8700.
