FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Cindy Berman, director of public relations
(216) 952-7510
E-mail:
GOVERNOR HICKENLOOPER DECLARES MAY
ALPACA LIVESTOCK MONTH
On April 22, 2011 Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper signed a proclamation recognizing May 2011 as Alpaca Livestock Month. This comes just in time for the
Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA) National Alpaca Show.
Each year, a city is chosen to host this premiere alpaca show in North America. This year’s show will be held at the Denver National Western Complex in
Denver, Colorado beginning Friday, May 20th and continuing through Sunday, May 22nd and is FREE to the public.
“Alpacas have always been a unique and special animal, but the fact that our leaders are now acknowledging them as livestock lends credence to their
real purpose,” said AOBA Board Member Scott Miller. “The alpaca’s luxurious fleece is making its way into America’s culture and its textile industry… and the
best is yet to come!”
According to the Alpaca Registry, Inc., there are currently 12,409 registered alpacas in Colorado.
###
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Cindy Berman, director of public relations
(216) 952-7510
E-mail:
Not Your Every Day Costume Contest….
Costumed alpacas sure to be a crowd pleaser!
Don’t miss your opportunity to witness an extremely unique (yet adorable) competition at the Denver National Western Complex in Denver, Colorado on Thursday, May 19 at 6:00 p.m. An Alpaca Costume Contest will take place, and is open to the public free of charge!
Four age groups (under 9 years old, 9-11 years old, 12 – 14 years old and 15-19 years old) will strut their stuff with their costumed alpacas in the main show ring. Costumes will be judged on the covering of the comfort of the animal with foreign objects on their head, legs and feet, and how imaginative the costume is as well as the story each participant must write telling about the costume.
1st through 6th place ribbons will be awarded to those with the highest points.
"The costume contest is so much fun,” said Becky Zierer, one of the contest organizers. “It's amazing how the kids have worked with their alpacas and can get them to walk, all dressed up in the elaborate costumes!"
The Alpaca Costume Contest is part of the National Alpaca Show, scheduled to make its debut in Denver this year.
National Alpaca Show
Every year, a city is chosen to host the premiere alpaca show in North America, the Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA) National Alpaca Show. Alpacas and alpaca enthusiasts, as well as fiber art enthusiasts, gather from across the country for this event. This year, the National Alpaca Show will be held at the Denver National Western Complex in Denver, Colorado beginning Friday, May 20th and continuing through Sunday, May 22nd.
Admission is FREE and open to the public. Hours are:
Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The Denver National Western Complex will showcase over 1,000 alpacas from breeders both local and from around the country. These beautiful, lovable animals will be featured in the show ring competition.
The show will be comprised of classes judging conformation and fleece quality in many categories for both Suri and Huacaya alpacas. For the first time ever, fleece show judging will be open to public viewing on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Performance shows will take place on Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 a.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until noon.
Artisans will showcase alpaca fiber and examples of: hand-spinning, weaving, shearing, felting, fiber arts, and more. Dozens of vendors and farm displays will sell the latest alpaca fashions and hand-crafted items.
On Friday, an alpaca auction will begin at 1:00 p.m. and run until 6:00 p.m. Admission is free and a cash bar will be available. The National Auction is the premiere event of the year for the North American alpaca industry.
About Alpacas
Alpacas, cousins to the llama, are beautiful, intelligent animals native to the Andean Mountain range of South America, particularly Peru, Bolivia, and Chile. The United States first commercially imported alpacas in 1984. There are now over 160,000 ARI (Alpaca Registry, Inc.) registered alpacas in North America.
There are two types of alpacas in the United States today. Although almost physically identical, what distinguishes the two types of alpacas is their fiber. The Huacaya (wa-Ki’-ah) is the more common of the two and has a fluffy, extremely fine coat. The Suri (SUR-ee) is the rarer of the two and has fiber that is silky and resembles pencil-locks.
Adult alpacas stand at approximately 36 inches at the withers and generally weigh between 150 and 200 pounds. They do not have horns, hooves, claws or incisors. Alpacas are alert, intelligent, curious, and predictable. Social animals that seek companionship, they communicate most commonly by softly humming.
About Alpaca Fiber
Alpacas are shorn, without harm, every twelve to eighteen months. They produced five to ten pounds of luxurious fiber. Long ago, alpaca fiber was reserved for royalty. Today it is purchased in its raw fleece form by hand-spinners and fiber artists. Knitters buy it as yarn.
Because of its soft texture, alpaca fiber is sometimes compared to cashmere. Making the fiber even more coveted, it has the luster of silk. Alpaca is just as warm as, yet 1/3 the weight of wool. It comes in 22 natural colors, yet can be dyed any desired shade.
Containing no lanolin, alpaca fiber is also naturally hypoallergenic. Most people who are sensitive to wool find that they can wear alpaca without the itching or irritation they feel from wool because alpaca fiber is smooth. Additional performance characteristics include: stretch, water repellency, and odor reduction. For travelers, clothing made from alpaca is desirable because it is wrinkle-resistant.
About AOBA
Headquartered in Nashville, TN, the Alpaca Owners & Breeders Association (AOBA) serves to facilitate the expansion of a strong and sustainable alpaca industry through the growth and development of the national herd and its products. Since AOBA’s formation in 1988, its membership has grown steadily to more than 4,000 members with over 160,000 registered alpacas in North America.
For more information about the show, alpacas, or to visit an alpaca farm near you, visit www.alpacainfo.com.
MANY, MANY PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES!!!
###
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Cindy Berman, director of public relations
(216) 952-7510
E-mail:
Alpacas are supporting our troops!
Sock Brigade features auction items at this year’s National Alpaca Show
Every year, a city is chosen to host the premiere alpaca show in North America, the Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA) National Alpaca Show. Alpacas and alpaca enthusiasts, as well as fiber art enthusiasts, gather from across the country for this event. This year, the National Alpaca Show will be held at the Denver National Western Complex in Denver, Colorado beginning Friday, May 20th and continuing through Sunday, May 22nd.
On Friday, an alpaca auction will begin at 1:00 p.m. and run until 6:00 p.m. Admission is free and a cash bar will be available. The National Auction is the premiere event of the year for the North American alpaca industry.
In addition to alpacas, this year’s auction will include some lots that will directly benefit our soldiers abroad.
The BentStar Project Ltd, a California non-profit corporation formed to further the education of the public to the efforts of recovering POW/MIAs, also houses the Sock Brigade and has shipped over 10,000 pairs of alpaca socks to our deployed troops since January 2007, and that number continues to grow.
Lots include:
Lot 1 is the photo and the box of 24 socks to send to soldiers.
Lot 2 is the day with Amanda V and Jude A and Judy Steele's pottery piece.
Lot 3 is the woven alpaca rug from Weather'd T
Lot 4 Airfare and accommodations to the Pucara Premium Reserve Auction
All proceeds will be used to send more socks to troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.
What is the Sock Brigade?
When Barbara Coleman asked her son, Army Sergeant Micheal L. Coleman, what he would like in his next care package to Iraq in January 2007, his request was simple: alpaca socks.
Barbara and Randy Coleman own Wings & A Prayer Alpacas in Amity, Oregon, so the request was one she could easily fulfill. Mike went on to explain that since the troops were on their feet all day and had to withstand freezing temperatures at night, he would appreciate as many pairs of socks as she could send so that he could share the comfort of alpaca socks with his platoon.
Why Alpaca?
Because of its soft texture, alpaca fiber is sometimes compared to cashmere. Making the fiber even more coveted, it has the luster of silk. Alpaca is 1/3 the weight of wool, yet just as warm, ensuring warm feet for the soldiers during the cold desert nights.
Containing no lanolin, alpaca fiber is also naturally hypoallergenic. Most people who are sensitive to wool find that they can wear alpaca without the itching or irritation they feel from wool because alpaca fiber is smooth. Additional performance characteristics include: stretch, water repellency, and odor reduction. For travelers, clothing made from alpaca is desirable because it is wrinkle-resistant.
These characteristics are what made alpaca socks ideal for troops in harsh climates.
The Colemans sent out a plea to alpaca farms across the country for the 24 necessary pairs of socks to provide a pair for each member of Micheal’s platoon. In a short time, over 1,000 socks were donated.
The Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA) has partnered with the Sock Brigade to help give soldiers warm feet, and more importantly, the reminder that they are not forgotten.
For more information visit www.alpacainfo.com.
MANY, MANY PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES!!!
###
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Cindy Berman, director of public relations
E-mail:
THE ALPACAS ARE COMING!
Denver Hosts National Alpaca Show
Denver, Colorado – Every year, a city is chosen to host the premiere alpaca show in North America, the Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA) National Alpaca Show. Alpacas and alpaca enthusiasts, as well as fiber art enthusiasts, gather from across the country for this event. This year, the National Alpaca Show will be held at the Denver National Western Complex in Denver, Colorado beginning Friday, May 20th and continuing through Sunday, May 22nd.
Admission is FREE and open to the public. Hours are:
Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The Denver National Western Complex will showcase over 1,000 alpacas from breeders both local and from around the country. These beautiful, lovable animals will be featured in the show ring competition.
The show will be comprised of classes judging conformation and fleece quality in many categories for both Suri and Huacaya alpacas. For the first time ever, fleece show judging will be open to public viewing on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Performance shows will take place on Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 a.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until noon.
Artisans will showcase alpaca fiber and examples of: hand-spinning, weaving, shearing, felting, fiber arts, and more. Dozens of vendors and farm displays will sell the latest alpaca fashions and hand-crafted items.
On Friday, an alpaca auction will begin at 1:00 p.m. and run until 6:00 p.m. Admission is free and a cash bar will be available. The National Auction is the premiere event of the year for the North American alpaca industry.
About Alpacas
Alpacas, cousins to the llama, are beautiful, intelligent animals native to the Andean Mountain range of South America, particularly Peru, Bolivia, and Chile. The United States first commercially imported alpacas in 1984. There are now over 160,000 ARI (Alpaca Registry, Inc.) registered alpacas in North America.
There are two types of alpacas in the United States today. Although almost physically identical, what distinguishes the two types of alpacas is their fiber. The Huacaya (wa-Ki’-ah) is the more common of the two and has a fluffy, extremely fine coat. The Suri (SUR-ee) is the rarer of the two and has fiber that is silky and resembles pencil-locks.
Adult alpacas stand at approximately 36 inches at the withers and generally weigh between 150 and 200 pounds. They do not have horns, hooves, claws or incisors. Alpacas are alert, intelligent, curious, and predictable. Social animals that seek companionship, they communicate most commonly by softly humming.
About Alpaca Fiber
Alpacas are shorn, without harm, every twelve to eighteen months. They produced five to ten pounds of luxurious fiber. Long ago, alpaca fiber was reserved for royalty. Today it is purchased in its raw fleece form by hand-spinners and fiber artists. Knitters buy it as yarn.
Because of its soft texture, alpaca fiber is sometimes compared to cashmere. Making the fiber even more coveted, it has the luster of silk. Alpaca is just as warm as, yet 1/3 the weight of wool. It comes in 22 natural colors, yet can be dyed any desired shade.
Containing no lanolin, alpaca fiber is also naturally hypoallergenic. Most people who are sensitive to wool find that they can wear alpaca without the itching or irritation they feel from wool because alpaca fiber is smooth. Additional performance characteristics include: stretch, water repellency, and odor reduction. For travelers, clothing made from alpaca is desirable because it is wrinkle-resistant.
About AOBA
Headquartered in Nashville, TN, the Alpaca Owners & Breeders Association (AOBA) serves to facilitate the expansion of a strong and sustainable alpaca industry through the growth and development of the national herd and its products. Since AOBA’s formation in 1988, its membership has grown steadily to more than 4,000 members with over 160,000 registered alpacas in North America.
For more information about the show, alpacas, or to visit an alpaca farm near you, visit www.alpacainfo.com
MANY, MANY PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES!!!
###
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Cindy Berman, director of public relations
E-mail:
U.S. TROOPS WARMED BY SOCK BRIGADE
Alpaca provides ideal fiber for harsh conditions
When Barbara Coleman asked her son, Army Sergeant Micheal L. Coleman, what he would like in his next care package to Iraq in
January 2007, his request was simple: alpaca socks.
Barbara and Randy Coleman own Wings & A Prayer Alpacas in Amity, Oregon, so the request was one she could easily fulfill.
Mike went on to explain that since the troops were on their feet all day and had to withstand freezing temperatures at
night, he would appreciate as many pairs of socks as she could send so that he could share the comfort of alpaca socks
with his platoon.
Why Alpaca?
Because of its soft texture, alpaca fiber is sometimes compared to cashmere. Making the fiber even more coveted, it has
the luster of silk. Alpaca is 1/3 the weight of wool, yet just as warm, ensuring warm feet for the soldiers during the
cold desert nights.
Containing no lanolin, alpaca fiber is also naturally hypoallergenic. Most people who are sensitive to wool find that
they can wear alpaca without the itching or irritation they feel from wool because alpaca fiber is smooth. Additional
performance characteristics include: stretch, water repellency, and odor reduction. For travelers, clothing made from
alpaca is desirable because it is wrinkle-resistant.
These characteristics are what made alpaca socks ideal for troops in harsh climates.
The Colemans sent out a plea to alpaca farms across the country for the 24 necessary pairs of socks to provide a pair
for each member of Micheal’s platoon. In a short time, over 1,000 socks were donated.
This began the Sock Brigade.
Through the BentStar Project Ltd, a California non-profit corporation formed to further the education of the public
to the efforts of recovering POW/MIAs, the Sock Brigade has shipped over 9,000 pairs of alpaca socks to our deployed
troops, and that number continues to grow.
The Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA) has partnered with the Sock Brigade to help give soldiers warm feet,
and more importantly, the reminder that they are not forgotten. Local alpaca farms are encouraging customers to donate
a pair of socks to our soldiers during this holiday season.
To further promote this wonderful cause, Lamb Chop now serves as the official “spoke sock.” Lamb Chop and Mallory
Lewis, daughter of the late Shari Lewis, are helping spread the word that YOU can send socks… and comfort… to our
troops!
For more information about how you can help, visit www.alpacainfo.com
###
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Cindy Berman, director of public relations
E-mail:
North American Alpaca Industry Collaborates to Launch “Build A Tent Initiative"
Meeting November 19 in Nashville
The North American alpaca industry is meeting to discuss an industry-wide initiative to support the increased growth of a
domestic alpaca fiber market. Over the next 18 months, these individuals will coordinate the start up this initiative.
The Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA) is hosting the initial meeting on November 19, 2010 from 8:00 a.m. until
4:00 p.m. at their headquarters in Nashville, TN. More than 30 people are scheduled to attend and dozens more will join via
a webinar.
“The alpaca industry is a diverse industry,” says Claudia Raessler, who serves on the AOBA Board of Directors. “There needs
to be an industry collaboration to move a business model forward and through which industry participants can come together
to create a viable market for domestic fiber.”
One possibility is for the new organization to take advantage of a “legal entity” designed as a low-profit, limited
liability corporation (L3C). An L3C, sometimes called a for-profit with a soul, is a flexible investment vehicle that promotes
collaborative projects between non-profit and for-profit businesses. This organizational structure also encourages potential
investment opportunities for resources such as private foundations that had not been available previously.
The organization, designed to leverage existing industry expertise, will focus on the development and promotion of projects
that can be developed through a unified, cohesive plan. This will benefit individuals and organizations in the business and
ultimately the industry as a whole.
“In addition to the commercial fiber industry, there is a thriving cottage industry,” says Raessler. “This initiative will
also increase their access to marketplace.”
Anybody can participate in the initiative as a shareholder, from individual producers to large associations. The levels
of investment will determine how much return the investor may receive on his investment. The level of investment does not,
however, dictate governance control. Representatives of all investors will “have a seat at the table”, regardless of how much
they invest or industry size.
November 19th’s meeting will serve as an open discussion forum during which an understanding for possible business models will
be discussed and the industry collaboration will be established
Please contact Cindy Berman at (216) 952-7510 or Cindy@aobamail.com if you are interested in observing what promises to be an
industry-changing event!
About Alpaca Fiber
Alpacas are shorn, without harm, every twelve to eighteen months. They produced five to ten pounds of luxurious fiber.
Long ago, alpaca fiber was reserved for royalty. Today it is purchased in its raw fleece form by hand-spinners and fiber
artists. Knitters buy it as yarn..
Because of its soft texture, alpaca fiber is sometimes compared to cashmere. Making the fiber even more coveted, it has the
luster of silk. Alpaca is just as warm as, yet 1/3 the weight of wool. It comes in 22 natural colors, and can be dyed any
desired shade.
Containing no lanolin, alpaca fiber is also naturally hypoallergenic. Most people who are sensitive to wool find that they
can wear alpaca without the itching or irritation they feel from wool because alpaca fiber is smooth. Additional performance
characteristics include: stretch, water repellency, and odor reduction. For travelers, clothing made from alpaca is desirable
because it is wrinkle-resistant.
About AOBA
Headquartered in Nashville, TN, the Alpaca Owners & Breeders Association (AOBA) serves to facilitate the expansion of a strong
and sustainable alpaca industry through the growth and development of the national herd and its products. Since AOBA’s
formation in 1988, its membership has grown steadily to more than 4,000 members with over 150,000 registered alpacas in North
America.
To learn more about the alpaca industry, visit www.AlpacaInfo.com.
###
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Cindy Berman, director of public relations
E-mail:
ALPACA FARMS NATIONWIDE CELEBRATE
NATIONAL ALPACA FARM DAYS
Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA) invites you to visit their member farms and ranches on National Alpaca Farm Days on September 25th and 26th. This is a unique opportunity for the public to explore the many aspects of the alpaca livestock industry in the United States and Canada.
From meeting these beautiful, inquisitive animals in person to experiencing luxurious alpaca products at individual farm stores, there will truly be something for everyone.
While most alpaca farms welcome visitors throughout the year, National Alpaca Farm Days are sure to include special activities and educational opportunities.
For a complete list of participating farms and ranches, visit www.NationalAlpacaFarmDays.com.
About Alpacas
Alpacas, cousins to the llama, are beautiful, intelligent animals native to the Andean Mountain range of South America, particularly Peru, Bolivia, and Chile. The United States first commercially imported alpacas in 1984. There are now over 150,000 ARI (Alpaca Registry, Inc.) registered alpacas in North America.
There are two types of alpacas in the United States today. Although almost physically identical, what distinguishes the two types of alpacas is their fiber. The Huacaya (wa-Ki’-ah) is the more common of the two and has a fluffy, extremely fine coat. The Suri is the rarer of the two and has fiber that is silky and resembles pencil-locks.
Adult alpacas stand at approximately 36 inches at the withers and generally weigh between 150 and 200 pounds. They do not have horns, hooves, claws or incisors. Alpacas are alert, intelligent, curious, and predictable. Social animals that seek companionship, they communicate most commonly by softly humming.
About Alpaca Fiber
Alpacas are shorn, without harm, every twelve to eighteen months. They produced five to ten pounds of luxurious fiber. Long ago, alpaca fiber was reserved for royalty. Today it is purchased in its raw fleece form by hand-spinners and fiber artists. Knitters buy it as yarn.
Because of its soft texture, alpaca fiber is sometimes compared to cashmere. Making the fiber even more coveted, it has the luster of silk. Alpaca is just as warm as, yet 1/3 the weight of wool. It comes in 22 natural colors, and can be dyed any desired shade.
Containing no lanolin, alpaca fiber is also naturally hypoallergenic. Most people who are sensitive to wool find that they can wear alpaca without the itching or irritation they feel from wool because alpaca fiber is smooth. Additional performance characteristics include: stretch, water repellency, and odor reduction. For travelers, clothing made from alpaca is desirable because it is wrinkle-resistant.
About AOBA
Headquartered in Nashville, TN, the Alpaca Owners & Breeders Association (AOBA) serves to facilitate the expansion of a strong and sustainable alpaca industry through the growth and development of the national herd and its products. Since AOBA's formation in 1988, its membership has grown steadily to more than 4,000 members with over 150,000 registered alpacas in North America.
To find out more about National Alpaca Farm Days visit www.NationalAlpacaFarmDays.com.
###
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Cindy Berman, director of public relations
E-mail:
UNITED STATES HOSTS 2009 WORLD ALPACA CONFERENCE AT
AOBA NATIONAL ALPACA SHOW
Two Days Added Due to Overwhelming Public Interest!
CLEVELAND, OH –The Second World Alpaca Conference and AOBA National Alpaca Show, hosted by the Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association, will be held at the Cleveland, Ohio I-X Center from June 4 – 7.
Alpaca experts from around the world will converge in Cleveland for this international conference. This event reflects the success of the industry’s continued growth and development despite hard economic times. During the conference, an International Fleece Competition will take place featuring alpaca fiber from throughout the world judged by international judges. International speakers and attendees will also be present. International speakers and participants will be in attendance.
Each year, the AOBA National Alpaca Show showcases over 1,000 alpacas from across North America. The show is FREE and open to the public. Due to high public interest, hours have been extended! New hours are as follows:
Thursday, June 4 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Friday, June 5 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Saturday, June 6 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday, June 7 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
The public is also invited to attend the National Alpaca Auction, the premiere alpaca auction of the year. This event, too, is free and will take place Friday, June 5 from 1 p.m. until 6:30 p.m.
Throughout the week, these beautiful, lovable animals will be featured in the show ring competition. The show will be comprised of classes judging conformation and fleece quality in many categories for both Suri and Huacaya alpacas.
Artisans will showcase alpaca fiber and examples of: hand-spinning, weaving, shearing, felting, fiber arts, and more. Hundreds of vendors and farm displays will sell the latest alpaca fashions and hand-crafted items.
Making the weekend even more exciting, 2009 has been designated the “International Year of Natural Fibres” by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The objective of this global celebration is to raise awareness and stimulate demand for natural fibers, promote the efficiency and sustainability of the natural fiber industries, encourage appropriate policy responses from governments to the problems faced by natural fiber industries, and foster an effective and enduring international partnership among the various natural fiber industries. Natural Fibers include cotton, flax, wool, cashmere and alpaca, to name a few.
The “International Year of Natural Fibres” will be celebrated during the National Alpaca Fashion Show that will take place on Saturday, June 6 at 7:30 p.m. The latest in alpaca fashions and accessories, from every day to evening ware, will be showcased. Tickets to the fashion show are $25 and include heavy Hors d’oeuvres. A cash bar will be available.
About Alpacas
Alpacas, cousins to the llama, are beautiful, intelligent animals native to the Andean Mountain range of South America, particularly Peru, Bolivia, and Chile. The United States first commercially imported alpacas in 1984. There are now over 130,000 ARI (Alpaca Registry, Inc.) registered alpacas in North America.
There are two types of alpacas in the United States today. Although almost physically identical, what distinguishes the two types of alpacas is their fiber. The Huacaya (wa-Ki’-ah) is the more common of the two and has a fluffy, extremely fine coat. The Suri is the rarer of the two and has fiber that is silky and resembles pencil-locks.
Adult alpacas stand at approximately 36 inches at the withers and generally weigh between 150 and 200 pounds. They do not have horns, hooves, claws or incisors. Alpacas are alert, intelligent, curious, and predictable. Social animals that seek companionship, they communicate most commonly by softly humming.
About Alpaca Fiber
Alpacas are shorn, without harm, every twelve to eighteen months. They produced five to ten pounds of luxurious fiber. Long ago, alpaca fiber was reserved for royalty. Today it is purchased in its raw fleece form by hand-spinners and fiber artists. Knitters buy it as yarn.
Because of its soft texture, alpaca fiber is sometimes compared to cashmere. Making the fiber even more coveted, it has the luster of silk. Alpaca is just as warm as, yet 1/3 the weight of wool. It comes in 22 natural colors, yet can be dyed any desired shade.
Containing no lanolin, alpaca fiber is also naturally hypoallergenic. Most people who are sensitive to wool find that they can wear alpaca without the itching or irritation they feel from wool because alpaca fiber is smooth. Additional performance characteristics include: stretch, water repellency, and odor reduction. For travelers, clothing made from alpaca is desirable because it is wrinkle-resistant.
About AOBA
Headquartered in Nashville, TN, the Alpaca Owners & Breeders Association (AOBA) serves to facilitate the expansion of a strong and sustainable alpaca industry through the growth and development of the national herd and its products. Since AOBA’s formation in 1988, its membership has grown steadily to more than 4,000 members in North America.
For more information about the show, alpacas, or to visit an alpaca farm near you, visit www.alpacainfo.com.
MANY, MANY PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES!!!
###
THE BEST STOCK MIGHT BE LIVESTOCK
But don’t look for it on Wall Street!
With the turbulent state of the United States stock market, one would assume all investments are feeling the blow of the current crisis. However, the alpaca industry remains strong.
As mentioned in the Wall Street Journal article “When Stocks Tank, Some Investors Stampede to Alpacas and Turn to Drink” on October 3, 2008, people are looking to some alternative investments for relief. According to the article, “the national Alpaca Registry Inc., in Lincoln, Neb., says registrations are on pace to rise 7% this year and currently stand at 140,297.”
The article mentions alpaca breeder Peggy Parks of Johnstown, PA. “Ms. Parks says a female of "medium quality" can fetch $10,000 and that prices have been rising, supporting her hopes that she'll see a profit on her alpaca portfolio in five years,” according to the Wall Street Journal.
Another indicator that the alpaca industry is doing well was clearly seen this past weekend. On October 10, 11 and 12, one of the leading alpaca auctions in the country had very successful results. The Breeder’s Choice Auction hosted by Magical Farms in Litchfield, Ohio showcased over 70 animals which were auctioned off at an average of almost $25,000 per animal. Over 750 alpaca owners and breeders attended the auction this year, coming from all over the United States and Canada despite the decrease in travel because of the state of the economy.
And yet another indicator that the alpaca business is continuing to flourish was exemplified just last month. The Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA) held their Second Annual National Alpaca Farm Days this year on September 27 and 28. Over 1,100 alpaca farms opened their doors to the public for the opportunity to learn more about these unique, inquisitive animals. Expectations were exceeded dramatically with numerous farms reporting numbers of over 500 visitors each. Overall, this created a lot of excitement in the alpaca industry.
In a time that new business ventures are looked upon with trepidation, the alpaca industry is proving to remain a wise choice for alternative investments.
About Alpacas
Alpacas, cousins to the llama, are native to the Andean Mountain range of South America, particularly Peru, Bolivia, and Chile.
Alpacas were first imported into the United States in 1984. Since then, the alpaca industry has grown steadily, according to the Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA), the backbone of the alpaca industry. Current estimates total over 100,000 registered alpacas with the Alpaca Registry, Inc. (ARI) in the United States and more than 4,000 AOBA members in North America.
There are two types of alpacas in the United States today. Although almost physically identical, what distinguishes the two types of alpacas is their fiber. The Huacaya (wa-Ki’-ah) is the more common of the two and has a fluffy, extremely fine coat. The Suri is the rarer of the two and has fiber that is silky and resembles pencil-locks.
Adult alpacas stand at approximately 36 inches at the withers and generally weigh between 150 and 200 pounds. They do not have horns, hooves, claws or incisors. Alpacas are alert, intelligent, curious, and predictable. Social animals that seek companionship, they communicate most commonly by softly humming.
Alpacas are shorn, without harm, every twelve to eighteen months. They produced five to ten pounds of luxurious fiber. Because of its soft texture, alpaca fiber is sometimes compared to cashmere. Alpaca is just as warm as, yet 1/3 the weight of wool. It comes in 22 natural colors, yet can be dyed any desired shade. Containing no lanolin, alpaca fiber is also naturally hypoallergenic. Additional performance characteristics include: stretch, water repellency, and odor reduction. For travelers, clothing made from alpaca is desirable because it is wrinkle-resistant.
The best way to learn more about alpacas is to visit a farm or ranch. Visit www.alpacainfo.com to locate one near you.
Photo Links:
Suri Alpaca:
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b108/JerrMill/AOBA/Suri.jpg
Huacaya Alpaca:
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b108/JerrMill/AOBA/huacayaalpaca.jpg
Fashions made from Alpaca:
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b108/JerrMill/AOBA/fashion11b.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b108/JerrMill/AOBA/modeling06.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b108/JerrMill/AOBA/fashion.jpg
Contact:
Cindy Berman - Director of Public Relations
E-mail:
ALPACA FARMS NATIONWIDE CELEBRATE NATIONAL ALPACA FARM DAYS
On September 27 and 28, alpaca breeders from across the United States and Canada will invite the public to come to their farm or ranch to meet their alpacas and learn more about
these inquisitive, unique animals.
While most alpaca farms welcome visitors throughout the year, National Alpaca Farm Days are sure to include special activities and educational opportunities at a farm or ranch near you. For a complete list of participating farms and ranches, visit www.NationalAlpacaFarmDays.com.
“I invite you to visit our Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA) member farms and ranches on National Alpaca Farm days to explore all of the many aspects of the alpaca livestock industry,” said David Barboza, president of the Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association. “From providing quality animals to both new and existing breeders, to showcasing high quality and luxurious alpaca products in their individual farm stores, there is truly something for everyone.”
Alpacas are Livestock
The 2008 Farm Bill defines livestock as meaning “all animals raised on farms,” and in the accompanying explanatory language, alpacas are specifically mentioned. This is great news for the alpaca industry.
Because of the alpacas’ newly-acquired federal designation, alpaca breeders will now have access to myriad programs previously available only to more traditional livestock producers. These programs include grants to cover the cost of soil and water conservation projects on farms or for the marketing of the end products, as well as disaster assistance to cover the cost of lost production. Low interest loan programs are available for business expansion, construction of new facilities, or innovative fiber processing techniques. Low-interest loans are also available for non-traditional or ethnic-minority farm owners, including women!
In addition to accessing grant and loan programs, a Federal designation as livestock helps breeders who are struggling with zoning, tax, or other state or local government issues. Being classified as livestock at the federal level provides ammunition against having alpacas labeled as “exotics,” or similar designations that lead to zoning or regulatory headaches. It may ultimately assist those battling the application of sales and use taxes to the selling of alpacas.
Finally, the federal recognition of alpacas as livestock means those in the alpaca business can more easily join forces with their compatriots in other livestock industries to make their voice heard on Capitol Hill. This is a large step forward in forging mutual beneficial relationships with the wool, mohair, and other similar livestock organizations.
About Alpacas
Alpacas, cousins to the llama, are native to the Andean Mountain range of South America, particularly Peru, Bolivia, and Chile.
Alpacas were first imported into the United States in 1984. Since then, the alpaca industry has grown steadily, according to the Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA), the backbone of the alpaca industry. Current estimates total over 100,000 registered alpacas with the Alpaca Registry, Inc. (ARI) in the United States and more than 4,000 AOBA members in North America.
There are two types of alpacas in the United States today. Although almost physically identical, what distinguishes the two types of alpacas is their fiber. The Huacaya (wa-Ki’-ah) is the more common of the two and has a fluffy, extremely fine coat. The Suri is the rarer of the two and has fiber that is silky and resembles pencil-locks.
Adult alpacas stand at approximately 36 inches at the withers and generally weigh between 150 and 200 pounds. They do not have horns, hooves, claws or incisors. Alpacas are alert, intelligent, curious, and predictable. Social animals that seek companionship, they communicate most commonly by softly humming.
Alpacas are shorn, without harm, every twelve to eighteen months. They produced five to ten pounds of luxurious fiber. Because of its soft texture, alpaca fiber is sometimes compared to cashmere. Alpaca is just as warm as, yet 1/3 the weight of wool. It comes in 22 natural colors, yet can be dyed any desired shade. Containing no lanolin, alpaca fiber is also naturally hypoallergenic. Additional performance characteristics include: stretch, water repellency, and odor reduction. For travelers, clothing made from alpaca is desirable because it is wrinkle-resistant.
“Whether you are new to livestock, an existing breeder or just interested in alpacas National Alpaca Farm Days is a great opportunity to see why Alpacas are the Worlds Finest Livestock,” said Barboza.
To find out more about National Alpaca Farm Day and for a complete list of participating farms and ranches, visit www.NationalAlpacaFarmDays.com.
Contact:
Cindy Berman - Director of public relations
E-mail:
