The 46th annual Executive Conference is underway at The Bellagio in Las Vegas. Urner Barry is proud to host industry executives from far and wide once again in 2022. Day one kicked off with opening remarks from Urner Barry Vice President Russ Whitman, followed by a keynote address from ButcherBox Founder and CEO, Mike Salguero.

Each year, Urner Barry recognizes individuals for their work and service to the industry. In 2022, Urner Barry dubbed a Poultry Person of the Year, along with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed upon late industry icon, Henry Kuhl. His family was in attendance at the event to accept the award in an emotional tribute.

Kuhl Corporation was started in 1909 by Henry’s father and brother. It started as a poultry equipment business, and it has since grown into an international machinery manufacturer for poultry, food, pharmaceutical and other industrial applications. Henry was the proud face of the company traveling worldwide promoting their products including the first commercial egg washer, which he invented. In fact, he has 20 plus patents which helped the industry flourish.

Along with being President of Kuhl Corporation, Henry was involved in many different industries. He was the director & vice president of Flemington Fair, Director of Town & Country Bank, he was a member US poultry & Egg Association, Independent Bakers of America, the International Egg Commission, and the National Chicken Council.

Henry’s wife Cynthia and son Kevin accepted the award, and I dare say there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. Henry Kuhl is truly missed by all at Urner Barry’s Executive Conference and his contributions to the industry will be celebrated for many years to come.

This year’s Poultry Person of the Year went to Kent Puffenbarger of Prestage Foods.

Kent is a long-time member of many industry associations and has served the National Turkey Federation as Board member, and USAPEEC as Chairman. And while his educational and professional accolades speak for themselves, all of that wouldn’t amount to nearly as much if it weren’t for the character that defines him. Despite the indisputable depth of knowledge he possesses, it is Kent’s reputation as a true gentleman, a man who is honorable, possesses work ethic, commitment, and professionalism, which led Urner Barry to select him for this prestigious award. 

“Kent is poultry industry force to be reckoned with, a great human being and a special friend,” said Urner Barry Senior VP and Conference host, Russ Whitman.

Presenting the award along with Whitman was poultry market reporters Dylan Hughes and Matt Busardo.

Urner Barry’s Executive Conference is happening now at The Bellagio in Las Vegas, May 1-3, 2022. Stay tuned for more coverage from the event!