Openherd Event Schedule

Alpaca Association of Western Oregon member meeting. Agenda TBD.

Please note different room than we usually meet in.

Guests welcome to attend.

Saturday, May 25


DYE YOUR FLEECE MOTHER NATURE'S WAY!
9 AM to Noon
$75 per person, all materials included.
You may also bring other yarn and fiber to dye. Learn about natural plants found in California, and how to gather & use them.

Instructors: Deb Low & Alyssa Hamilton

Wonderful day of fun and alpacas.
Sheared Delights will be Saturday May 25, 11-5pm,
Open to everyone
Spinners and fiber artists bring lunch and spend the day, folding chair if you have one.
Cookies hot tea/ coffee provided.
Alpacas,raw fleece, skirted fleece, roving, yarn and batts for sale, your chance to meet the alpacas that produced this marvelous fiber.
Skirting tables will be set up and help for skirting available
We will be in the covered barn but can be cool so dress for the weather.
Join the fun!
New this year a table of donated items with 100 % of sales going to support cure for Epilepsy.
Find directions to our ranch and more information at our website
www.whiteoakalpacas.com

A couple of alpacas are coming to the store from the ranch.
They'll be at Blazing Star Ranch (inside Anderson's Vacuums), 3424 S Broadway, Englewood, CO 80113 from 11:00 to 4:30.

Peter Ostrander professional shearer, and Gretchen Schlomann, Certified Sorter, will be at Polaris Alpacas LLC to harvest our fleeces again. Peter has consistently provided a quality product. He is efficient and gentle with the alpacas. Gretchen is going to be preparing our fleeces for show, sorting, and processing. We are delighted to be able to use their services again this year!

Alpaca Crossroads, an advertising co-op of six Northwest Ohio alpaca farms, invite you to join them at Chateau Tebeau for a fun and information afternoon. You can taste the marvelous wines produced at the winery, have a casual meal and interact with some amazing alpacas. Throughout the afternoon learn more about the "alpaca lifestyle" and the financial benefits of owning alpacas from some of the the country's most successful and experienced alpaca breeders.

Event is on Saturday, June 1, 2013 from 2:00pm - 8:00pm at the Chateau Tebeau Winery, Helena, OH.

For more information please go to www.chateautebeauwinery.com
or www.thealpacacrossroads .com

This seminar/workshop is a great way to get hands on experience with alpacas. Come and spend the morning "on the farm" learning all about raising alpacas. From toe nail trimming and giving shots to birthing crias to halter training to building a barn and designing pastures! You will spend three hours working on the farm. Always fun and always something different! In the past, people have attended for a wide variety of reasons including everything from simple curiosity to a desire to purchase fiber/pet males or to get into the alpaca livestock business. No matter what the reason, we're sure you will find these events both entertaining as well as educational. Dress comfortably as we will be outside with the alpacas!

Once shearing is over, what do you do with all that lovely fiber? Join us for discussion and demonstration of fiber preparation techniques for shows and processing. We’ll address the different types of fiber shows and which are most appropriate for your fleeces, and the variety of options available for processing your fiber into products for use and profit.

The seminar will be led by Sharla Willis, owner of Peaceful Heart Alpacas. She will share from personal experience and her perspective as a fiber artist, alpaca farmer, and business woman.

June 1, 9am-1pm

The fiber seminar will be held the same day as our Alpaca Health Care seminar. Attend one or both.

Cost: $30 for one seminar; $50 for both seminars; $10 for additional attendees from the same farm. Seminars are complementary for those who have purchased alpacas from Peaceful Heart Alpacas. Lunch will be provided between the classes and we invite all participants to join us.

Registration: Register online, by phone, or at the farm.

Healthy alpacas lead to happy alpacas and owners. Join us for a lecture on the general care and maintenance of alpacas led by Dr. Heather Jenkins. She will be discussing new guidelines in alpaca care focusing on parasite control and treatment, neonatal care, and dental care.

Heather Jenkins, DVM, CVA owns Healing Springs Animal Hospital in Galax, Virginia where she focuses on a growing alpaca practice. She will share knowledge gained through over 10 years experience caring for camelids. She has attended the 2010 & 2012 International Camelid Health Conferences at Ohio State University, and volunteered with Dr. Walter Bravo at the Alpaca Research Station in La Raya, Peru.

June 1, 2-5pm

Cost: $30 for one seminar; $50 for both seminars; $10 for additional attendees from the same farm. Seminars are complementary for those who have purchased alpacas from Peaceful Heart Alpacas. Lunch will be provided between the classes and we invite all participants to join us.

Registration: Register online, by phone, or at the farm.

Open Farm Day hosted at Rosehaven Alpacas. open 12noon to 3pm. series of farms opened over the course of the summer for educational purposes.

Hasselbring's Harmony Ranch invites you to attend a day-long seminar at their farm in Concordia, Missouri. Whether you are new to alpacas or already have alpacas, this seminar is sure to give you valuable knowledge and insight.

Topics include:
1. The meaning of alpaca farming - history, end products, why it is valuable and what it means to traditional agriculture
2. The alpaca business – benefits and pitfalls, considerations, adopting a business/farm model and how to adapt that into wise purchases
3. Alpaca end product – why it is "fiber of the gods", and how you can quickly know what quality alpaca fiber should look like
4. The alpaca – what should my alpaca look like? Is it healthy? Will it like a good, long life? Can it reproduce and give birth easily?
5. How do I choose a female alpaca?
6. How do I choose a male alpaca?
7. Alpaca farm set up and management – how to best utilize your resources to spend less getting the most out of your farm's layout

Presented by Alan Cousill and Jude Anderson of Pucara International, the seminar will include both discussion and hands-on, in–the–barn learning. Al and Jude have more than 15 years' experience in alpaca farming, both in the United States and Australia.

To register or to learn more about the event, go to www.hasselbringsharmonyranch.com, call Patty Hasselbring at 816-769-3939, or email: ranch@hasselbringsharmonyranch.com.

The Fiber Studio at Windy Hill presents:
"An Introduction to Spinning with a
Hand Spindle"
June 1, 9 AM to 4 PM
$100 per person, all materials included
Instructor:
Kate Kravits

Fiber / Wool Festival

June 1-2, 2013
Pioneer Museum, 2340 N Ft. Valley Rd. Flagstaff, AZ.
10:00a.m. - 4:00p.m.
$1 per person admission, discount tickets available for $1 per carload
14 and under, 65+ free

28th Annual Wool Festival, a weekend celebrating the tradition of sheep ranching and fiber craft in Northern Arizona

Slogan: “Sometimes the sheep win”
Workshops and seminars, demonstrations
•Live sheep, goats, and alpaca
•Herding dog and shearing demonstrations
•Fiber craft demonstrations; by Navajo and other local artisans
•Living history sheep camp; meet local Sheppard’s and sample traditional sheep camp cooking
•Local fleece and fiber crafts for sale

Call for more information: 928-774-6272 or 928-925-0139. Vendors RSVP by May 24, 2013.

This hands on workshop is aimed towards helping those thinking of entering the alpaca industry or new breeders. An overview of topics will be covered including:

1. What should you consider when making your first purchases? How to choose the right mentoring farm. How to come up with a breeding program. What ages, sex, and characteristics should you consider for purchase.

2. The breakdown of business—How much to invest. How quick will you see a return. How to have a plan to achieve success as a new/small breeder with attainable goals.

This is a hands on workshop lead by CPA and successful small breeder Laurel McDaries.

Sunday June 2, 2013
9:30am - 3:00pm
Lunch will be provided.

Space is limited to 12 attendees.

Please make your reservation ASAP to guarantee a seat.

First Harvest Shearing Seminar
Learn the Maximum Harvest Shearing Technique!

May 31st—June 2nd, 2013 “Hands-on” class taught by Franc Winkley

Learn how to:
• Effectively handle alpacas to minimize stress!
• Shear for maximum harvest and yield!
• Use and maintain equipment.
• Properly handle shorn fiber for increased profits!

COST: $275.00 single / $499 double - Includes 3 full day classes and breakfast and lunch each day.

To register : Call or email First Harvest Shearing or Host Farm

First Harvest Shearing - Contact: Franc Winkley
Phone: (678)786-9FHS
Email: FirstHarvestShearing@gmail.com Web site: www.firstcutshearing.com

Hosting Farm: Kissin’ Coussens Alpaca Farm - Arlington, WA
Contact: Laura Coussens
Farm: (360) 652-8742 E-mail: kcalpaca@premier1.net
Web site: www.alpacanation.com/kissincoussens.asp

[ Lodging and food can be found at I-5 exit 208 (Arlington) or exit 206 (best choice, Smokey Point exit)].

Forensic Fleece - What Can My Fleece Tell Me?

While most everyone evaluates fleece initially using visual aspects, this seminar will take you a step closer into the fleece and you will learn to "See" what the fleece is telling you.
Using subjective techniques, we will learn how to identify tender fleece or damage to fleece from environmental factors.
Let's take a look at the type of debris and vegetable matter present for possible tips on pasture management issues. What can we determine from the fleece's hand? Lock structure?
We will look at individual fibers and study their traits such as length, thickness and color. How about the characteristics of crimp, curl, spiral, strength, reflectivity? You will never look at a fleece the same again!


Alpaca Fiber Testing - Understanding Histograms and Testing Methods

Interpreting histograms can be troublesome at times. This lecture will help you understand what you are reading and how you can best utilize this information.
We will review the 3 types of histograms and what each shows you, understanding the differences and similarities between them.
We also discuss the different methods of testing, equipment, testing facilities, and what they need from you for accurate results.

Seminar Fee is $70.00 per person.

To reserve a seat, make checks payable to Alpacas of Menges Mills and send to 6217 Old Hanover Rd., Spring Grove, PA 17361. Please include your name, your farm name, and a contact phone number.
Breakfast and Lunch will be provided. Optional farm tour at the end of the day.

Please come visit us at the ranch!
Although we are a working ranch and not a "zoo", we have
OPEN RANCH DAY on the 2nd Saturday of every month
when we welcome the public to come see what we do here and meet the alpacas. Our hours are 10 AM to 3 PM. Strollers and wheel chairs are welcome. Bring your cameras, but no pets, please. Open Ranch Day is FREE to the public.

The 2013 CNY Fiber Festival will be held on June 8 and 9 from 10:00 - 5:00 at the Butternut Hill Campground on Route 20 in Bouckville, NY. Once again, there will be more than 100 booths filled with natural fibers, yarn, roving, fiber arts supplies, and all manner of handmade fiber products and related farm products. Fiber animals will be on display, there will be many activities for children, and we will have even more free exhibits and demonstrations than in 2012. The CNY Antique Tractor Club will have an exhibit of tractors, and a fleece sale is planned..

10:00 am to 5:00 pm both days

What Is A Sort-a thon?

Educational event Alpaca, Sheep (any natural fiber) fleeces submitted, sorted & graded using the Certified Sorting SystemTM
Fleece evaluation & report sent to submitting farm based on best textile usage

Why A Sort-a-thon?

Educate owners about fiber usage and what they have
Help owners put their fiber to its best use
Get natural fibers into production
Increase fiber sales to commercial buyers and hand spinners Why a Sort-a-thon?

· A breeder will be able to learn how a sorting system can help them sell their fiber.

· An artisan will learn which grade of fiber is more appropriate for a particular finished product.

· Vendors will be able to develop new potential product sources of U.S. producers via the Natural Fiber Producers Cooperative.

BENEFITS TO REGISTRANTS

Registrants given production options: sell to pre-registered buyers, hand spinners, submit to NFP Cooperative, return directly to them
Registrants receive overview of fiber production: brightness/luster, uniformity, CPI, length, density and relationship of secondaries to primaries across the grade
Registrants receive education and usable information regarding best uses for the grades of their own fiber; included detailed inventory of fleece potential if submitted to NFP cooperative.
Allows fiber producing animal owners to place their fleeces into production, creating profit for their farm.

Learn to master your own camera and subject matter. This all day seminar is a must for everyone who takes pictures. Jennifer combines powerpoint presentations with Q&A and one-on-one time with you and your camera.

Jennifer Clark is recognized internationally as one of the leading photographers in the industry.

Early Bird special $100 - after May 15th cost is $125

Come join Our Little World Alpacas for an alpaca farm open house and pen sale. Alpaca fiber products for sale in our farm store and lots of alpacas for your viewing pleasure.

We have lots juvi boys and girls to choose from. Bred females and yearling fiber boys also.

Spinning demontrations and ask us any questions about the care of alpacas and farm layout.

Open house from 11AM to 4PM or stay and watch our beautiful sunsets.

This clinic begins with a two-day Basic Camelidynamics Clinic followed by our learn to organize and assist your shearer Clinic with Tracy Annis, Camelidynamics Practitioner. The final day is a hands on shearing experience with one on one coaching with Tracy. Take charge of shearing and do it the way YOU want to! Learn to: prepare for shearing day, manage the flow of fleece and skirt and sort fiber. See how to create a handling system that is kind, respectful and efficient. Learn about all the various ways to shear and how to make whatever method you choose easier for you AND your animal. Learn about: equipment how it works and what kind you might want,first aid basics and trimming toenails. Most owners will recoop their investment in equipment and education in 1-3 years.

Learn to create a beautiful alpaca scarf using a knit loom. This fun fiber art class is for everyone, no experience needed. The knitting loom is a simple way to create knitted pieces that is perfect for creating scarves, belts, purses and other items. We offer regular classes on creating scarves using a Knitting Loom. During the class, we will learn to start and finish scarves and begin using the loom to ‘knit’ a scarf. At the end of the class, you will take your loom and scarf with you to finish at home.

Classes are scheduled for 2-4pm on April 21, May 19, June 16, July 21, and August 18. Classes cost $25 plus the yarn you chose for your scarf ($8 and up, depending on yarn, length and width of scarf). Price of the class includes purchase of your own knitting loom.

2nd Annual American Fiber Rally AOBA Fleece Show

In this class we will be making a small circular rug. You will need a Size S or Size U crochet hook. It will be the softest, cushiest rug, you’ve ever sunk your bare feet into!

If you have and would like to use your own rug yarn, you will need approximately 52 yards to make a circular rug that is 20? across. Using the same basic pattern, you can then make coasters, trivets, chair pads, even pet beds out of your rug yarn!

Register here or call Julie Petty at (419) 529-8152.

Local Cultural event. Stop by and check out local alpaca products and participate in alpaca fiber crafts or sign up for classes to be held this summer. Tioga Street, Tunkhannock!

Join us and learn the beautiful art of Nuno felting
This class will be taught by Melissa Stander
Cost $80 will cover basic materials
June 22, 2013 from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

A Unique Alpaca Event.........featuring grey and black alpacas

This event is proudly presented by 5 award winning alpaca farms.

With and nod and a wink to the EL James series "Shades of Grey", five farms come together to provide fabulous alpacas in all shades of grey and black. Not only are we offering breeding stock for sale and stud, we will also be providing breeder education.


Please visit our website for details, updated information and to RSVP

This workshop is geared toward those breeders who need guidance in branding and marketing themselves and their alpacas through PROVEN methods.

We will cover how to achieve marketing and branding online, in print, and in person….get your alpacas and products SOLD!!

We will make sure you leave with a PLAN to SELL and how to set ACHIEVEABLE GOALS.

Understanding what you have to sell and Who your Customers will be.

This is a hands on workshop lead by CPA and successful small breeder Laurel McDaries.

Sunday June 23, 2013
9:30am - 3:00pm
Lunch will be provided.

Space is limited to 12 attendees.

Please make your reservation ASAP to guarantee a seat.

We’ll be holding an “Open Barn” from 10am to 4pm on June 22 and 23rd.
Public is invited and encouraged to attend. Seminars for those looking to learn more about alpacas. Event is free, no RSVP needed. Great for a knitting group, home school meet-up, educational outing, or fun family adventure! Meet our alpaca ambassadors and learn more about these South American natives. Alpacas are inquisitive, intelligent and healthy; enabling them to produce a natural luxury fiber year after year. Interested in learning about alpacas? Plan on sitting in on our Alpaca 101 class held each day at 1:00 pm. Entertainment provided by the alpacas. Hosts will answer questions and assist with animal interactions. Most areas are relatively assessable to wheelchairs. Spinning and weaving demonstrations will be ongoing throughout the weekend. Feel the luxurious softness of the “Royal Grade” quality alpaca and learn about the new markets emerging from this exciting development.

Huacaya and Suri, Breeding Females, Herdsires, Geldings and Fiber Animals. The ranches of the Alpaca Breeders Connection once again give you the opportunity to experience and learn the ins and outs of alpaca ownership.

Good package pricing available and financing available for purchases over $2,000.

Join us for a hands-on intensive weekend of discussion and instruction of the process and value of working with your alpaca fleeces. Cindy Maggio of Zen Alpaca at Gossamer Farms, Inc. will guide us through the 2 day highly concentrated workshop of Camelid Fiber Preparation. The discussions will include:
1. Shearing Techniques to maximize your return
2. Introduction to Fiber Grades and their relevance to processing and product selection
3. On-Farm Fiber Sorting – with emphasis on fiber characteristics
4. On-Farm Skirting to maximize the profits of your harvest
5. In depth reading and understanding histograms for practical application
6. Review Sorting theory for application to farm decisions, such as breeding selection, nutrition, care and overall management of the herd.

Instructor: Cynthia Maggio
Cindy Maggio, Fiber Artist/Entrepreneur is the owner and primary artist at Zen Alpaca. For more than 25 years she has been a fiber artist/educator. It is in the Camelid world that she puts into action her passion and training under Guru, Ruth Elvestad of Olds College as a Camelid Fiber Sorter and instructor. Her unique background, trained as an engineer and artificial limb practitioner, combined with world travels for mountaineering expeditions, her perspective is not only scientific but also enthusiastic creativity and success. She brings this passion to each of her workshops and events.

Time - Saturday 9:30 - 4:30 pm
Sunday 9:30 - noon

Cost includes: Sample Ring for fiber grades. Coffee and lunch on Saturday.

Colusa Riverside Alpacas is hosting the famous Studmaster Herdsire MSA Hemingway's Bogart at our ranch for the spring of 2013. His breeding fee is greatly reduced to offer owners and breeder in Northern California the opportunity to integrate Studmaster genetics and EPDs into their herd. Bogies EPDs are outstanding as is his elite phenotype and fiber. This is a great opportunity for Calpaca members. He has even better discounts if multiple breedings are procured. Bogies EPDs are some of the best in the world, don't miss this opportunity with this time limited offer fee of $1200.

Mommy and Me Alpaca Extravaganza
Harley Hill Farm Alpacas, 451 Kellers Road
Quakertown PA 18951
Saturday, June 29th and Sunday June 30th
10 am until 4 pm both days
8 local PA and NJ farms with over 40 alpacas, including at least 10 spring baby crias – More 2 in 1 and 3 in 1 alpaca packages available than at any other sale.
OR just come for the education and FUN!
Free Seminars – Basic care, business planning, alpaca selection and fiber analysis
Shearing, fiber, spinning and alpaca agility demonstrations, and an alpaca parade!
No admission or seminar charge
Go to harleyhillfarm.com for more info

This year’s judge is Amanda VandenBosch, a Senior AOBA Halter, Fleece and Performance Judge, as well as an International Alpaca Judge. Amanda travels worldwide judging shows in Australia, Canada, Germany, New Zealand, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the United States. She has had the opportunity to work with some of the world’s leading experts, adding depth and flavor to her private practice.

Educational-style Judging
The fleece show will be open to the public from 10:00 to 5:00 PM. Our educational approach to the Fiber Frolic allows the audience to observe the judging as it happens. When judging is complete, Amanda will be available to answer questions and will provide invaluable comments regarding fleece preparation, breeding and other considerations to assist you in furthering your business success.

Learn to weave your own lovely alpaca shawl on a handcrafted Triangle Loom. This 3 day seminar is taught by Sharla Willis at Peaceful Heart Alpacas, and will include instruction on designing your projects, calculating yarn yardage needed for a project, and the creation of your own shawl made from alpaca yarn. We will meet from 6-9 pm Friday and 8am-5pm Saturday and Sunday in our Fiber Arts Studio. Snacks and drinks will be provided during our working sessions. Breaks will be scheduled throughout, and lunch will be served on Saturday and Sunday.

Join us for one of our 2013 weaving classes to be held the weekends of June 28-30, September 13-15, or October 25-27. The seminar costs $150 plus materials (approximately $35-75 depending on the yarn you choose). Included in the course price is use of the handcrafted looms, which will be available for purchase at a reduced price for seminar participants.

Please come visit us at the ranch!
Although we are a working ranch and not a "zoo", we have
OPEN RANCH DAY on the 2nd Saturday of every month
when we welcome the public to come see what we do here and meet the alpacas. Our hours are 10 AM to 3 PM. Strollers and wheel chairs are welcome. Bring your cameras, but no pets, please. Open Ranch Day is FREE to the public.

Join us for our 4th annual Fiber "U" at the Cowan Civic Center in Lebanon, MO on Historic Route 66. This year we have 42 Fiber Related Classes to choose from and 30+ Fiber related Vendors to shop with all in air conditioned comfort. Regional collection point for AFCNA, NEAFP, ABP and several fiber mills. Please check our web-site for more detailed information. Registration open mid-March ($20-$35 plus any material fees) and free and open to the public. Hours are Saturday 9am-5pm and Sunday, 8am-3pm.

You will learn to basic ability to assess alpacas by using an evaluation form: Conformation, Fleece, and overall Soundness.

GAIN CONFIDENCE to apply your new skills on your own herd to make effective and profitable decisions!

Then we’ll teach you how to make informed decisions! Using pedigree knowledge, show records knowledge, and genetic knowledge.

Learn to make better breeding decisions, better marketing decisions, and better pricing decisions.

This is a hands on workshop lead by Alpaca Judge with experience since the orginal importation days and successful breeder Mary Reed.

Saturday July 20, 2013
9:30am - 3:00pm
Lunch will be provided.

Space is limited to 12 attendees.

Please make your reservation ASAP to guarantee a seat.

Join us for an educational day with **Wini Labrecque on July 20, 2013
Space is Limited so Register ToDay!!

This One Day seminar is designed for current or future alpaca owners that want to learn how to prepare an alpaca fleece for a show and what you can do with the alpaca fleece after you shear.

LEARN TO SKIRT AN ALPACA FLEECE FOR SHOW
- Learn the characteristics used in the judging process such as fineness, strength, staple/lock type, guard hair, length and hand.
- Observe the hands on skirting of fleeces for show emphasizing the uniformity of its characteristics and properties.
- Find out the difference in preparing a fleece for show or preparing a fleece for processing fiber products.

SHEARING IS DONE - Now What Do We Do with the Fiber?
Fiber production from alpacas is the primary reason for raising these animals and a by-product from a breeding program. Our alpaca fiber deserves a major place in the textile market.
- Learn the many options for utilizing your fleece - topics include:
- Fiber preparation - understand grading and sorting
- What to send to a mill
- Blending possibilities
- What are you looking for in an end product
- What are you planning to do with your yarn
- How to get the most from your fleece processing
- Fiber marketing
- An update on what is happening in the North American fiber market today.

**Wini Labrecque is an AOBA Certified Alpaca Fleece Judge and a Certified Camelid Fiber Grader / Sorter. You will find her at shows and events presenting topics related to fleece and fiber.

PRESENTED BY: Wini Labrecque
DATE: July 20, 2013 (Saturday)
TIME: 8:30am to 5:30pm
WHERE: Alpaca Pastures of Virginia, Inc

INCLUDES:
- Handouts from Wini Labrecque
- Continental Breakfast served between 8:30am and 9:00am
- Lunch served around noon.

** Registration Forms are on our website!!
http://alpacapasturesva.com/fleece_seminar

REGISTRATION ENDS: July 10th, 2013

More info to follow as it gets closer

Marty McGee Bennett is coming to Connecticut! Register prior to May 1st or for multiple attendees from the same farm - $325.

With our busy lives, it is more important than ever to be able to accomplish the regular animal management tasks in less time and more efficiently. In this clinic - learn how to get more done and how to enjoy working with your animals, using the Camelidynamics methods that are safe, respectful, and kind. Hope you are able to take advantage of either or both parts of this clinic.

Learn the basic principles and techniques of the Camelidynamics approach:
• Knowledge and use of body position to manage alpaca movement
• The magic and power of balance
• Getting results with physics not force
• Effective catching and herding
• Giving injections without fear or force
• Critical halter fit and haltering technique
• Introduction to trimming toenails without trauma
• TTEAM and TTOUCH bodywork
• Organizing your facilities - including pastures and barn using the Camelidynamics Handling Facility

What this includes: Light breakfast each with coffee and juice. Lunch, a light afternoon snack and water and beverages available throughout the day.
Saturday after the clinic Dr. John Pollack from Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine will give a talk on herd health and best practices. Dr. Pollack graduated from Tufts in 1997 and specializes in small ruminant medicine and surgery. He is a wealth of knowledge about camelid health. He will answer any questions or discuss any topics you wish. Please email Sue or Mitch at info@threeniecefarm if there is something specific you'd like him to talk about.

Learn to create a beautiful alpaca scarf using a knit loom. This fun fiber art class is for everyone, no experience needed. The knitting loom is a simple way to create knitted pieces that is perfect for creating scarves, belts, purses and other items. We offer regular classes on creating scarves using a Knitting Loom. During the class, we will learn to start and finish scarves and begin using the loom to ‘knit’ a scarf. At the end of the class, you will take your loom and scarf with you to finish at home.

Classes are scheduled for 2-4pm on April 21, May 19, June 16, July 21, and August 18. Classes cost $25 plus the yarn you chose for your scarf ($8 and up, depending on yarn, length and width of scarf). Price of the class includes purchase of your own knitting loom.

Come on out to the beautiful farm of ELDORA Suri Alpacas in Lebanon, Oregon to enjoy an evening of fun and relaxation for AAWO's second annual Summer Social.

Bring your family or guests for grilled Burgers and Hot Dogs with all of the trimmings.

Please bring a six pack of your favorite beverage, alcohol optional.

5-8 pm

In 2013, we will be offering our three most popular wet felting classes during one fun filled weekend. Join us for one or more classes. Lunch is served on Sunday and between classes on Saturday. These popular classes will be taught by local fiber artist Karen Simpson. For all felting classes we will be using the “Wet Felting Method”. Using warm, soapy water and elbow grease with your choice of colorful wool and natural alpaca fibers, you can create incredible art pieces that you can wear! No fiber art experience is needed to enjoy these great classes, and no knitting is involved in this type of felting.

• Felted Purse: July 27, 8am-12pm; Purse Class $40.00 / $25 material fee
• Felted Scarf: July 27, 1-4pm; Scarf Class $30.00 / $25 material fee
• Felted Hat: July 28, 8am-5pm; Hat Class $80.00 / $30 material fee

Saturday, July 27
9 AM to Noon
$50 pp materials included Hooked On Crochet
Perfect for Beginners!
This is the perfect class for anyone wanting to learn to crochet. Crocheting is easy & fun! Learn all you need to know to finish a simple project.

Please come visit us at the ranch!
Although we are a working ranch and not a "zoo", we have
OPEN RANCH DAY on the 2nd Saturday of every month
when we welcome the public to come see what we do here and meet the alpacas. Our hours are 10 AM to 3 PM. Strollers and wheel chairs are welcome. Bring your cameras, but no pets, please. Open Ranch Day is FREE to the public.

Instructor: Dr Andrew Merriwether.

Explore the rules of color inheritance as you learn how to breed for desired colors while avoiding blue-eyed whites. Want to breed for a Tuxedo Grey? Love those True Blacks? Join us as we learn about the fascinating world of color genetics and EPD's in camelids. Industry expert, Dr. Andy Merriwether, will teach this interesting 6 hour class.

Bring your ARI certificates and questions!

Dr. Andrew Merriwether,Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Anthropology and Biology Director Graduate Studies for the Department of Anthropology at Binghamton University in New York. His research involves identifying the genes involved in coat and skin color of camelids. He has written several articles on alpaca color genetics including BEW’s. Dr. Merriwether and his wife own Nyala Farms in Southern New York.

Coffee, tea and water provided. Lunch available - menu selections $8 - $13.

Class size limited to 49.

Learn to create a beautiful alpaca scarf using a knit loom. This fun fiber art class is for everyone, no experience needed. The knitting loom is a simple way to create knitted pieces that is perfect for creating scarves, belts, purses and other items. We offer regular classes on creating scarves using a Knitting Loom. During the class, we will learn to start and finish scarves and begin using the loom to ‘knit’ a scarf. At the end of the class, you will take your loom and scarf with you to finish at home.

Classes are scheduled for 2-4pm on April 21, May 19, June 16, July 21, and August 18. Classes cost $25 plus the yarn you chose for your scarf ($8 and up, depending on yarn, length and width of scarf). Price of the class includes purchase of your own knitting loom.

In this class you will learn how to transform shapeless alpaca and wool fibers into colorful felted balls, using both needle and wet felting. Making a felt ball is incredibly easy! You will also learn to make a variety of felt bracelets, both with the beads you have made, and other styles. Please bring a towel, and a dispenser filled with liquid soap. All other materials will be provided.

Register
here or call Julie Petty at (419) 529-8152.

9 AM to Noon
$65 pp materials included Crochet: Beads & Jewelry
Apply basic crochet skills to make jewelry & add beads to your design. Materials are included for this class. Bring your favorite hook!

The third annual EDUCATION WITH A DESTINATION just may be the most comprehensive 4-days of education you can find. The event takes place at three ranches near Bend, Oregon with experts in all aspects of llamas and alpacas. You will learn...
~ Tripp Forstner, Magical Farms
~ Alpaca selection, Business strategies, Marketing
~ Fiber fantastic
~ Cheryl Gehly and Amanda VandenBosch
will navigate you through everything you need to know
about fiber.
~ Get educated on taxes with CPA Kathy Sizemore
~ Camelidynamics with Marty McGee-Bennett
~ And much more....

Alpaca farm members from Alpaca Association of Western Oregon will be at the Oregon State Fair this year displaying alpacas, fleeces and alpaca products. They will be presenting public educationals about raising alpacas and harvesting their fleece at 11 AM and 2 PM daily.

Rosehaven Alpacas and Friends bring live alpacas, exhibits, spinners and weavers to the festival. A boutique offers a complete line of alpaca clothings and accessories. From scarves, shawls, gloves, hats, jackets, dresses, skirts, sweaters and teddy bears.

Complimented by music, food and wine, this event is a festival favorite to kick off the harvest season!

Rosehaven will be there all during the Harvest season - but not the main event.

This class will be a great introduction to a beautiful, natural art form. The art of making felt has been around for centuries. Felt making is believed to be the first textile art, even before spinning and weaving. In this class we will be wet felting alpaca fiber over soap. Otherwise known as “soap in a coat”, the finished product is your soap and washcloth all in one. Fiber and bars of soap will be provided for the class. Easy project for adults and children.

Register
here or call Julie Petty at (419) 529-8152.

During this One Day seminar you will be introduced to:
- Getting Started and Building a Research Library.
- History of the Alpacas and the Alpaca Industry.
- Basic Farm Design, Shelter, Pastures, and Tack essentials
- Fundamentals of Diet, Daily Chores, Routine Medical Care and Shearing.
- Choosing Alpacas to meet your Investment Goals and Herd Growth.
- Marketing, Alpaca Shows, Farm Tours, and Fiber Workshops.
- Business Planning and Tax Benefits.
- Hands-On Experience with an Alpaca.

This one day exciting seminar focuses on answering the questions that one may have if interested in entering the alpaca business.

PRESENTED BY: Sherry McEvoy of Alpaca Pastures of Virginia, Inc.
DATE: September 14, 2013 (Saturday)
TIME: 8:30am to 5:00pm

COST: ONLY $85 per person

INCLUDES:
- The materials included with the Alpaca Basics Seminar are:
- A methodically prepared 65+ page full color Alpaca Basics presentation.
-- Written and presented by Sherry L. McEvoy.
- A Start Up Expense Calculator.
- A Personalized Five Year Investment Plan Calculator.
- Continental Breakfast served between 8:30am and 9:00am
- Lunch served around noon.

CLASS SIZE: 12 people

** Registration Forms are on our website!!

Join us for yet another informative and fun class learning to hand paint fiber and yarn with colorful dyes.
Taught by Dani McKenzie of Pirate Yarn Works.

Lighting "makes or breaks" a photograph - it is the single most important aspect of photography. This all day seminar gives you a clear understanding of how to use it to your advantage. Jennifer combines slide shows with time photographing.

Jennifer Clark is recognized internationally as one of the leading photographers in the industry.

Early Bird special $100 - after Aug 14th cost is $125

Cameron Holt has had some 50 years in the fibre industry, namely as a Wool Broker, Sheep Classer, Judge, Educator and Researcher. He is currently judging and training Judges for the Australian Alpaca Association. In his role as Senior Fleece Judge and trainer for AOBA, he was involved in both the AOBA show judging and the training of AOBA judges. He travels internationally, consulting for various alpaca groups and has been well received both in the US and abroad.

Cameron Holt's most recent speaking engagement on the east coast in the US was over two years ago. He has just completed work on a book that is due out this summer, Cameron Holt's Definitive Guide to Alpaca Fibre. This is an exceptional opportunity to learn about alpaca fibre and the future of the alpaca fibre industry internationally with application to the US models and markets. Bring your questions and enthusiasm for two days of learning, networking, and fun!

Preregistration required. For more information and/or to register visit our website www.LongAcresAlpacaFarm.com or call 717.382.8137. Co-hosted by Long Acres Alpaca Farm & Littlebird Alpacas

Learn to weave your own lovely alpaca shawl on a handcrafted Triangle Loom. This 3 day seminar is taught by Sharla Willis at Peaceful Heart Alpacas, and will include instruction on designing your projects, calculating yarn yardage needed for a project, and the creation of your own shawl made from alpaca yarn. We will meet from 6-9 pm Friday and 8am-5pm Saturday and Sunday in our Fiber Arts Studio. Snacks and drinks will be provided during our working sessions. Breaks will be scheduled throughout, and lunch will be served on Saturday and Sunday.
Join us for one of our 2013 weaving classes to be held the weekends of June 28-30, September 13-15, or October 25-27. The seminar costs $150 plus materials (approximately $35-75 depending on the yarn you choose). Included in the course price is use of the handcrafted looms, which will be available for purchase at a reduced price for seminar participants.

This seminar/workshop is a great way to get hands on experience with alpacas. Come and spend the morning "on the farm" learning all about raising alpacas. From toe nail trimming and giving shots to birthing crias to halter training to building a barn and designing pastures! You will spend three hours working on the farm. Always fun and always something different! In the past, people have attended for a wide variety of reasons including everything from simple curiosity to a desire to purchase fiber/pet males or to get into the alpaca livestock business. No matter what the reason, we're sure you will find these events both entertaining as well as educational. Dress comfortably as we will be outside with the alpacas!

25th annual celebration of Vermont farms and fiber! Featuring fiber animal barn with sheep, goats, alpacas, llamas and rabbits; over 70 vendors offering natural fibers and yarns, handcrafted wool products, fiber crafting supplies and livestock and fencing supplies; workshops, contests and demonstrations; local food, music and more.

Open Ranch/Farm days. Animals, products, fiber for sale. Tours. Lunch.
RSVP

Our Little World Alpacas in Grafton, OH is having A National alpaca Farm Days Open house on Saturday, September 28 from 11AM to 4PM and Sunday, September 29 fromm 12PM to 4PM. Come visit our alpacas and look for a unique alpaca gift for a friend or family member. Alpaca is the gift of warmth and believe me we need warmth around here in the winter. Hand knit hats and scarves and the warmest socks you will ever own. We have products made from our own alpaca yarn and also products from Peru. Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express accepted. Mention this ad an receive a 10% discount. Hope to see you there.

National Alpaca Farm Days at Storybook Alpacas September 28 & 29 12:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Join us for an afternoon with the alpacas! Learn about alpacas as livestock, fiber animals or pets and the wonderful aspects of alpaca fleece. Get out in the fresh air and enjoy this year's crias (babies), investigate educational displays, do a little shopping and spend a fun afternoon at Storybook Alpacas....Where Happily Ever Afters Begin! Call 419-589-3745 or email alpacatales@storybookalpacas.com for more information.

PacaBuddies is a group of like-minded local Alpaca Owners & Breeders east and south of Denver, CO who have joined together and pooled resources to better share the experience with members of our communities. Visit us for our annual Alpaca event at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in Castle Rock, CO. Visit our website for schedules, alpaca ranches and vendor lists.

Steeple View Alpacas is proud to present! Yes! It's that time of year. The HIGHLY anticipated event you don't want to miss! Saturday October 5th from 10-4. Come and spend the day with 4 great Alpaca Farms learning the in’s and out’s of the most amazing Fiber on the planet. We will take you from the after shearing stages right on through to the end user products. Learn and get involved in many aspects of fiber processing all under one tent. Ask questions, pick up tips and flat out experience the Alpaca fiber world. There will be many Vendors with Alpaca Products available for sale along with a barn tour and visiting the alpacas and crias. Demonstrations and seminars are as follows: Spinning, weaving, kool-aide-dyeing, commercial dyeing, wet/dry felting, the knit & stitch club, fiber mill processing and our "Ask the Vet" seminar featuring Dr. Arlen Wilburs. And yes so much more! Come visit the alpacas and their barnyard friends the rabbits. Learn how all these animals fur and fleece are harvested and made into end user products that we all wear. Food & drinks available as well as shopping galore! Bring your crochet or knitting project and sit for a spell and make new friends!

We will also be featuring our Pen Sale! Great opportunity to acquire stellar quality & genetics at rock bottom pricing!

For exisiting farms we will be running fabulous breeding specials to our champion males that you don't want to miss!

Mark your calendars for this fun filled day!

The Cambridge Fiber Fair and Alpaca Pen Sale was conceived to promote the sale of domestically raised and processed fiber and fleece. If you know a crafter; spinner, weaver, knitter or crochet lover, this show is one that should be marked on their calendar.

In addition to fleece and fiber of varied types, the fair will host an alpaca pen sale--a great opportunity to see, touch and, perhaps purchase, a fantastic fiber-bearing animal to compliment your current herd, or to begin the process!

We look forward to seeing you at the Isanti County Fair Grounds in Cambridge, Minnesota on October 19th!

This Farmer's Market takes place each Saturday April through mid-October near the libray in historic Coupeville, on central Whidbey Island. Savor the local flavors of the nearby farms, enjoy home-baked goods, find a new treasure from one of the many talented local artisans, and of course, don't forget to visit our booth where you can feel a variety of soft alpaca yarns, rovings and other products.

You may also wish to take home a couple of lavender sachets. There are 5 varieties and over 100 lavender plants grown at Frosen Acres Alpacas. We will be offering wreaths, wands, fresh, dried, and live plants by mid July to August depending upon the weather. See you there!

North Sound Alpaca Association will host the 3rd Annual Fiber Fusion Northwest Fiber Expo. - focusing on all natural fibers.

Enter your alpaca fleece to be judged under International Rules by Babs Manion. Check out the website www.fiberfusion.net for low- cost entry fees and multiple fleece discounts.

Enter your hand-spun yarns and other fiber creations in our Fiber Arts contest.

Explore a variety of natural fibers and fiber arts as you shop the vendors, take a class, bring your knitting, spinning wheel and enjoy a day of fun with your local fiber enthusiasts!

Over 20 classes will be offered to expand your horizons in fiber preparation, spinning, knitting, weaving, dying and more! Sign up for seminars in advance.

All natural fiber producers are welcome to participate!

For this class you must have a spinning wheel that is in good working condition. Treadling at home for 2-4 hours prior to class is highly recommended. We will be learning about the spinning wheel and its parts, how to thread the wheel, set the proper tension and ratio, how to finish the yarn, how to ply, how to wind onto a Niddy-Noddy, create a skein, and set the twist. The cost for the class includes four ounces of alpaca fiber to spin.

Class is FREE with the purchase of a spinning wheel!

Register
here or call Julie Petty at (419) 529-8152.

Learn to weave your own lovely alpaca shawl on a handcrafted Triangle Loom. This 3 day seminar is taught by Sharla Willis at Peaceful Heart Alpacas, and will include instruction on designing your projects, calculating yarn yardage needed for a project, and the creation of your own shawl made from alpaca yarn. We will meet from 6-9 pm Friday and 8am-5pm Saturday and Sunday in our Fiber Arts Studio. Snacks and drinks will be provided during our working sessions. Breaks will be scheduled throughout, and lunch will be served on Saturday and Sunday.

Join us for one of our 2013 weaving classes to be held the weekends of June 28-30, September 13-15, or October 25-27. The seminar costs $150 plus materials (approximately $35-75 depending on the yarn you choose). Included in the course price is use of the handcrafted looms, which will be available for purchase at a reduced price for seminar participants.

Do you have a group that would enjoy spending time with the alpacas and participating in a fiber arts project?

We can provide your private group with an alpaca experience and they can learn first hand what can be done with alpaca fleece.

Felted soap project for each participant.

Contact us to schedule your visit and for more details. Other projects available.

5th Annual Fall Fiber Festival in Hopkins, MN Saturday November 2nd 2013 from 9am to 4pm. A group of like minded fiber enthusiasts and yarn producers/artisans. They have banded together to start the Fall Fiber Festival. It is a one day event with very reasonable vendor booth rentals available! The Festival is located in Hopkins, MN at the Eisenhower Community Center on Highway 7 just west of State Highway 169. All manner of fiber and fiber products are available to see, feel and buy at this annual event. Alpaca, wool, angora, mohair, silk as well as garments, spinning equipment, soaps, dyes and jewelry. In addition there will be classes for a very small fee and several free demonstrations.

In this class we will be wet felting a pair of the warmest mittens you have ever worn. No knitting or crocheting required! You will learn how to make your own pattern for making mittens that are custom fit to your own hand. Great for any outdoor activity, recess duty too!

Register
here or call Julie Petty at (419) 529-8152.

This class will be an introduction to needle felting. No experience necessary… no knitting or crocheting required! We will be felting Christmas Cookie Ornaments and Christmas Ball Ornaments. All materials are included. Tools and foam forms needed will be furnished for the class, and available for purchase for more felting fun at home!

Register
here or call Julie Petty at (419) 529-8152.

Our Little World Alpacas in Grafton, OH is having Christmas in the Alpaca Barn on Saturday November 23, November 30 and December 7 from 11 to 4 pm. Come visit our alpacas and look for a unique alpaca gift for a friend or family member. Alpaca is the gift of warmth and believe me we need warmth around here in the winter. Hand knit hats and scarves and the warmest socks you will ever own. We have products made from our own alpaca yarn and also products from Peru. Visa, Mastercard and American Express accepted. Mention this ad an receive a 10% discount. Hope to see you there.
Credit Cards Accepted

Our Little World Alpacas in Grafton, OH is having Christmas in the Alpaca Barn on Saturday November 23, November 30 and December 7 from 11 to 4 pm. Come visit our alpacas and look for a unique alpaca gift for a friend or family member. Alpaca is the gift of warmth and believe me we need warmth around here in the winter. Hand knit hats and scarves and the warmest socks you will ever own. We have products made from our own alpaca yarn and also products from Peru. Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express accepted. Mention this ad an receive a 10% discount. Hope to see you there.

Christmas in the Barn with Santa and the Alpacas! Storybook Alpacas 1051 Reed Road Mansfield, OH. Drive back Storybook Lane and join us in the barn. Warm up with cookies and hot chocolate while enjoying the alpacas. Make your alpaca and alpaca product wish list and leave it with Santa. He might even deliver for Christmas if you've been very, very good! Enjoy learning about the alpacas and shop for a gift of warmth and comfort for everyone on your list. What better way to begin the Holiday Season than visiting Storybook Alpacas....Where Happily Ever Afters Begin? Sunday, December 1 12:00 - 5:00 p.m. Call 419-589-3745 or email alpacatales@storybookalpacas.com for more information.

Our Little World Alpacas in Grafton, OH is having Christmas in the Alpaca Barn on Saturday November 23, November 30 and December 7 from 11 to 4 pm. Come visit our alpacas and look for a unique alpaca gift for a friend or family member. Alpaca is the gift of warmth and believe me we need warmth around here in the winter. Hand knit hats and scarves and the warmest socks you will ever own. We have products made from our own alpaca yarn and also products from Peru. Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express accepted. Mention this ad an receive a 10% discount. Hope to see you there.

We will be needle felting a snowman, that when finished will measure approximately 8? in height. You can use him/her for decorating your home or giving as a gift. All materials are included. Tools and foam forms needed will be furnished for the class, and available for purchase for more felting fun at home!

Register
here or call Julie Petty at (419) 529-8152.

Christmas With The Alpacas

Steeple View Alpacas 2125 Keiper Road will be open every weekend starting Nov 29,th through Dec 22nd from 10-4 for your shopping pleasure. Come join us at this festive time of year and meet the Alpacas. Bring your camera and take pictures of the family with an alpaca for your greeting cards. Enjoy some hot cocoa and holiday music as you shop for unique alpaca made products and gifts in our beautifully decorated Christmas Store. Watch the crazy antics of our baby alpacas as they jump and play down at the barn.

We have everything you need to give that extra something special this year. From hand crafted gifts made here on the farm, to Toys, Teddy Bears, Hats, Gloves, Scarves, Rugs and Yarn (made from our own alpacas) and much, much more! We now have saddle blanket's made from our alpacas for your equine friends. Come check out our NEW product lines. Of course we are still the home of "The EXTREME" Alpaca Socks as well. We also have a new line of warm alpaca socks in a variety of new colors for the fashionable ladies. Home to the adorable ORIGINAL PACAPETS! Come Join US!

For your shopping convenience we accept Visa/MC/Discover.

Do you want to learn more about alpacas? Help with herd chores and regular health monitoring? Weekends are great times so just contact me and we'll set the best time!

Learn about breeding, birthing, nutrition, fleece, knitting machines and farm design.

We donated Arrowsmith to the Melton's of Greenfield, IN for the Hancock County 4-H Alpaca Club.

Join us between 8 till 4 PM for this wonderful juried craft show. This is our first year showing product at this show and we are excited to be involved! This show is a terrific one with many very fine, high quality products. Look for us outdoors in our mobile shop!