In a letter from Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, exhibitors and at the All-American Dairy Show (AADS) and Keystone International Livestock Exposition (KILE) have been apprised of the situation regarding the lack of premium payments, as well as status of the vacant position of Show Manager Division Chief.
Redding opened the letter thanking exhibitors for their patience in the matter, and commended them for the wonderful job they do presenting their exhibits at the shows, and the quality of the genetics they have to put on display.
He continued to explain, calling the 2015-2016 Pennsylvania Budget process “extraordinary,” noting that as the reason for the delayed premium payments. He ensured exhibitors that the Department of Agriculture is committed to seeing that all premiums are paid once a resolution is found in the budget process.

Redding continued, making note of the sponsorship monies that have been collected. These monies are in the control of the Association Boards for each show. He acknowledged that he does not know the current status of that money, but that sponsorship money is imperative to hosting the show, and without those monies, the shows would cease to exist.

Addressing the filling of the vacant Show Manager Division Chief position, Redding explained that the position oversees both the AADS and the KILE. Work to fill this position been ongoing since November, and they are currently in the final phase of interviews. The goal of the Department of Agriculture is to conclude interviews and have an accepted offer so that the new Chief can be on staff and lead the planning for the 2016 show.

View the PA Department of Ag Letter here