"Belgian Blue Breeders in the US have been working tirelessly for several decades to create exceptional Belgian Blue genetics for US breeders and consumers" explains Connie Brooks, ABBB President. She continues "and the quality of the cattle at this year's show was nothing short of perfection for the breed." The 2006 National's Grand Champion Purebred/Fullblood Bull, JBB De L'Orignal Poppin' Johnny of Jones' Cattle Co. and Grand Champion Purebred/Fullblood Female DeShazo's Princess from Lacy DeShazo, Bokoshe, OK clearly demonstrated the quality.

Demand for Belgian Blues by commercial operators and farmers has not relented in the last few years and shortage of purebred bulls is not uncommon. "The Belgian Blue Breed used to be a well-kept secret, now we just can't keep up" Brooks exclaims

An emotional remembrance - ABBB Members overwhelmingly accepted to rename the ABBB Scholarship award the Ken Schlichte Memorial Scholarship in honor of the late founding member Ken Schlichte. This year's scholarship winners are Hannah Sieren of Hedrick, IA and Travis Blankenship of Beaumont, TX who both received $600 scholarships towards their post-secondary education.