Jane Pepple of Pep-L-Lea Farm in Oxford is the winner of the 2014 Obie Snider Award, the top honor at the state’s All-American Dairy Show.

The award was presented to Pepple Sept. 15 by state Agriculture Secretary George Greig during the show’s Dairy Farmer Appreciation Banquet at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in Harrisburg.

The award in memory of Obie Snider of Bedford County recognizes an individual with high standards who places significant value in service to the industry and community.

Jane and Bob Pepple established Pep-L-Lea farm in Oxford in 1972.  The Pepples have a herd of 70 registered Holsteins.  Pepple has taught 4-Hers about dairy showmanship and has coached teams, three of which were state champions.

“Jane has served the All-American Dairy Show behind the scenes for more than 40 years,” said Greig. “Her love of the dairy industry and passion for helping youth succeed are hallmarks of the volunteer spirit that drives the show.”

Pepple has been judging showmanship and fitting at state shows since 1997 and is on the show’s professional photography crew. Each year she donates the embroidered director’s chair for the senior division winner.

Pepple has also contributed to the Pennsylvania Holstein Association for many years and has been the Chester County chapter’s state director for 15 years.  She received the 2012 All-American Dairy Show Image Award and the Pennsylvania Junior Holstein Association’s PAL award in 2007 for her dedication to the state’s dairy youth.

“I have a great deal of respect for the dedicated, hard-working people who make up the dairy industry,” said Pepple. “The love of good cattle and the friendships made over the years keep me involved.”

The 2014 All-American Dairy Show is in Harrisburg until Sept. 18.  Last year’s event featured nearly 2,800 animals and more than 1,300 exhibitors from across the nation.

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Top photo credit: hans s via photopin cc