Illinois Simmental Association
“Working Together to Make A Difference”

January 6, 2009

Paul Walker
Secretary
Illinois Simmental Association
578 Old Peoria Rd.
Danvers, IL 61732

Dear Junior Simmental Breeder,

As many of you know, the President of the Illinois Simmental Association, Rick Haefner, passed away the summer of 2005. Rick was serving his second term on the Board of Directors for the Illinois Simmental Association and his second year as President of the association. Rick’s son, Ryan Haefner, was a former Illinois Junior Simmental Association President and member.

In his honor, Rick’s wife, Joann and their children Erin and Ryan have decided to create a scholarship program. Rick always placed a high priority on youth involvement whether it is within sports, education or the cattle industry. In addition to his leadership roles in the Simmental breed, Rick coached Junior High Girls Basketball and Junior High Track. Rick realized that there is a difference between being involved and being a leader. Therefore, the scholarship program will be based on “The Importance of Leadership”.

There will be two $250 scholarships awarded to any Illinois Junior Simmental Association member who is completing any type of post high school education or vocational training. The enclosed application form must be completed along with a 250-500 word essay on the importance of leadership. The applications and essays must be returned to the Haefner family no later than February 15, 2009. The scholarships will be awarded at the Annual Meeting of the Illinois Simmental Association on February 20, 2009 in Springfield, Illinois.
The Illinois Simmental Association was saddened to have lost this leader, promoter and friend.

Sincerely,
Paul Walker
Secretary, Illinois Simmental Association

Illinois Simmental Association Board Members
Tom Engel, Pres. ▪ Brad Dorsey, V-Pres. ▪ Paul Walker, Sec. ▪ Stan Tarr, Treas.
Wendell Alwardt ▪ Bill Bree ▪ Bob Danner ▪ Brian Loschen ▪ Derek Rapp