Beef USA -

Commentary: Historic Involvement of State Councils in National Checkoff Program Helps Assure Link to Grassroots

NCBA — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Federation of State Beef Councils to Celebrate 50th Anniversary in 2013

By Craig Uden, Chairman, Federation of State Beef Councils and Beef Producer, Elwood, Neb.

Today’s Beef Checkoff Program got its start in 1985, when the Beef Promotion Act was passed by Congress. The Act established a $1-per-head assessment on the sale of each bovine animal in the United States, plus each imported animal or an equivalent on imported product, for the purpose of creating a promotion, research and education fund that would help increase demand for beef.

Most who pay into the program know this. What is less well-known is that grassroots producers at the state level not only helped make it possible, but had funded national beef promotion programs for many years prior to 1985, through the Federation of State Beef Councils. The Federation will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2013.

I believe the mandatory national checkoff wouldn’t have gotten off the ground if not for efforts at the state level that not only supported the effort, but provided assurances that producers from state councils would have a huge say in how the program was set up and run. It’s why Qualified State Beef Councils (there are 45) collect the $1-per-head assessment, and are allowed to retain control of half of the funds they collect. About 700 producers who sit on state beef council boards help make decisions about in-state promotions and supplements to national and international demand-building programs.

This decision-making process is another way we assure that ownership of the beef checkoff remains in the hands of producers who pay the dollar. It also increases confidence that the dollars collected will be used for what they were intended – to strengthen demand for beef.

There’s more, though. By law the Federation selects half of the members of the 20-member Beef Promotion Operating Committee (BPOC), which determines which national and international checkoff-funded programs will be funded, and at what amount. The decisions made by this body must be approved by the entire Cattlemen’s Beef Board, which administers the Beef Checkoff Program, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees it.

Representatives of State Beef Councils sit on committees that help determine which programs are recommended for funding. And, often the programs approved by the BPOC are implemented at the state level by State Beef Council staffs. So State Beef Councils are involved in the input, planning and development of beef checkoff programs – and the execution, as well. All of these elements are vital in a successful state/national partnership, which is crucial to a successful beef checkoff program.

None of this has happened by accident. Many states had already created their own checkoffs when the Federation got its start as the Beef Industry Council, a division of the National Live Stock and Meat Board, in 1963. Their councils, some formed in the 1950s, reflected the type of beef production in their state, and could focus on the specific needs of beef promotion that their citizens required.

When the Meat Board and the National Cattlemen’s Association merged to form the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association in 1996, BIC became a division of NCBA. And that’s where it resides today.

Surveys show that more than 70 percent of producers support the checkoff, and I believe grassroots involvement by producers through their state beef councils is one of the reasons why. The Federation is proud to support beef council interests at the national level, and is excited about celebrating its 50th anniversary. Furthermore, we continue to find ways of maximizing the role of state councils in their tradition of service to this country’s producers, finding even more ways to increase consumer demand for beef.

Federation of State Beef Councils to Celebrate 50th Anniversary in 2013

NCBA — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

- Started as Beef Industry Council, Federation found home in NCBA

CENTENNIAL, CO – It was a presence well before the mandatory $1-per-head beef checkoff was created in 1985. And in 2013 the Federation of State Beef Councils will recognize that presence, celebrating its 50th anniversary as a force for grassroots participation in beef checkoff programs.

The Federation was created as the Beef Industry Council of the National Live Stock and Meat Board in 1963. It moved to the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) when the Meat Board and National Cattlemen’s Association merged in 1996 to form NCBA. While it has had two homes in its lifetime, the Federation’s role has not changed through the years, according to Federation Chairman Craig Uden, a beef producer from Elwood, Neb.

“The Federation helps assure that grassroots producers, through their state beef councils, have significant input in the workings of the national Beef Checkoff Program,” said Uden. “That grassroots control was paramount to producers when the mandatory checkoff was created in the 1980s. But it really got its start when state beef councils began establishing their own programs more than a half century ago and pushed for a national effort.”

By the time the BIC was created in 1963, five states – Montana and California in 1954, Alabama and Florida in 1955 and Oregon in 1959 – had created their own state checkoff programs, and supported a coordinated national effort that could build on their efforts. More states would soon join them; by 1980 another 25 states had formed councils. Today there are 45 state beef councils qualified by the Cattlemen’s Beef Board to collect the $1-per-head mandatory national beef checkoff in their states.

Beef Councils voted overwhelmingly in July, 2010 to maintain their partnership between the Federation and NCBA, while creating more independence for the Federation. Since that time, Federation leaders and staff have been working to perfect a structure that ensures greater independence, while still preserving a 16-year successful working relationship with NCBA.

The Beef Checkoff Program was established as part of the 1985 Farm Bill. The checkoff assesses $1 per head on the sale of live domestic and imported cattle, in addition to a comparable assessment on imported beef and beef products. States with qualified beef councils retain up to 50 cents on the dollar and forward the other 50 cents per head to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board, which administers the national checkoff program, subject to USDA approval.

The NCBA, a contractor to the beef checkoff, was established in 1898. Through its Federation Division the organization helps preserve the strength of the industry through consumer promotion and education, working to create new markets and increase demand for beef.

The Power of Partnerships

NCBA — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DENVER - Seventy-two executives, staff members and volunteers from 32 state beef councils gathered to launch the 2013 beef checkoff plan of work during the Partnerships in Action Conference (PIA), Oct. 16-18, in Denver. SBC representatives provided input on nationally-conducted checkoff programs and learned strategies to extend programs in their own states, using resources and staff expertise available to them as part of the Federation state-national partnership.

Jason Carter, executive director of the Virginia Beef Industry Council, was one of four new beef council executives attending his first checkoff launch. Carter said the meeting, along with the creative cross-country camaraderie, was one reason Virginia invested in the Federation of State Beef Councils in FY 2013.

“As a Federation member, Virginia will have better access to program staff and resources, especially through kickoff meetings like this one,” Carter said. “I’ve had the opportunity to make contacts with other beef council execs, talk about what’s worked or not worked for them and find resources that will benefit us throughout the year.”

The PIA meeting, along with an orientation for new state beef council directors and staff (March 5-7, 2013), are two annual meetings supported by the checkoff through the Federation of State Beef Councils.

“Bright Idea” Awardees: A panel of independent judges honored state beef councils for marketing savvy and creativity in state-based beef promotions, public relations and special events. The first-ever “Bright Idea” awards were presented at the Partnerships in Action Conference Oct. 16-18, in Denver.

Representing winning states are: (1st row, L to R) Erin Beasley, Ala.; Jean O’Toole, N.Y.; George Quackenbush, Mich.; Kaiti George, Neb. (2nd row, L to R) Carol Gillis, N.Y., Stephen Russell, Kan.; Jennifer Matison, Texas; Audrey Monroe, Kan.; Sharla Huseman, Kan.; Kristin Wilkins, Pa. (red); Deena Robinson, Kan.; Heather Buckmaster, Okla.; Adam Wegner, Neb. Earning the “Best of Bright Ideas” honors was the Michigan Beef Industry Commission.

Illinois Beef Association: Working Together

NCBA — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DENVER - November’s beef council profile is a conversation with Reid Blossom, executive director of the Illinois Beef Association, which operates on a “two-hat state” structure.

Q. How is the Illinois beef industry faring today?

A: Evaluating the state’s industry now can't be done without acknowledging the drought our producers have faced for the last two years. Many of our cattlemen have been forced to sell cows, buy feed and take other steps necessary to deal with the consequences of being 10 inches to 20 inches behind on rainfall. Despite this, the Illinois cattle industry has some of the sharpest cattlemen in the country. We are one of the few states east of the Mississippi River to have every segment of the production chain, from cow-calf to harvest. Additionally, some of the most recognized and successful seedstock operations are located in the Land of Lincoln.

Q. What is the state’s beef checkoff history?

A. The checkoff in Illinois has a long history, tracing back to one of the oldest state promotion programs, which started in 1963. Today, checkoff dollars are spent in Illinois in a variety of areas from producer-led BQA certification efforts to large scale consumer gatherings like the Illinois State Fair and various events in the Chicagoland area. It’s the country’s third largest metro area, with a population of more than 9.8 million people. Among IBA’s 2013 program priorities are to continue educating cattlemen on how to be better stewards of their land and animals – and giving producers more opportunities to talk about their beef operations to consumers and thought leaders.

Q. What kinds of advantages do you think the two-hat organizational structure provides to your fellow cattlemen and the state industry?

A: Certainly IBA’s checkoff work is a benefactor of our operating status as a two-hat state. Our statewide board of checkoff directors meets in conjunction with our dues directors as two divisions of our IBA’s board of governors. The checkoff directors and their representatives on our executive committee independently make all decisions on funding and budgeting of checkoff dollars. A benefit to our checkoff-funded work surfaces when local affiliate leaders and other interested cattlemen, some of whom sit as dues directors on our board, are able to plug themselves in to volunteer with promotion activities. Simply put, more cattlemen sitting down to talk about what we can all do together benefits us all.

Illinois at a Glance

The Numbers: The IBA represents 1,700 members, more than 14,000 cattle producers and nearly 430,000 head of cattle statewide
The Business: State beef consumption and production represents a $4.5 billion industry
Federation Seat(s): One director seat, held by Susan Head
Consumer Market: State is home to more than 12.8 million consumers

Visit: www.illinoisbeef.com

Illinois Beef Association’s Board: “More cattlemen sitting down to talk…benefits us all,” says IBA Executive Director Reid Blossom. The two-hat IBA board includes officers and directors for both the checkoff and policy divisions, as well as at-large directors and ex officio non-voting members.

Right Makes Might

NCBA — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DENVER - For the past 20 years, the Washington State Beef Commission (WSBC) has measured its beef checkoff efforts by a nine-word mission statement: “To increase demand for beef by exceeding consumer expectations."

While the WSBC accomplishes this through a hearty focus on in-state promotions, it also supports group marketing efficiency by sending voluntary checkoff dollars to the Federation of State Beef Councils.

“The mission statement guides our state efforts and underpins our belief that there is marketing strength in numbers,” said Patti Brumbach, who has been WSBC executive director for 22 years. “Nationally, we pool resources with other states because it’s an efficient and effective way to reach our shared objectives.”

While Washington isn’t considered a large beef-producing state, it has unique characteristics that guide the state’s $543million beef industry and its emphasis on consumer marketing.

“We’re a microcosm of the beef industry,” Brumbach said. “Every industry sector is represented in Washington, and on our board. As for marketing, we have a large, mostly affluent population and we’re also geographically well-positioned for Pacific Rim exports.”

To capitalize on these advantages and set an efficient and effective annual checkoff program, WSBC board relies on significant assistance from Federation-funded strategic planning and market research teams. These high-level services are available through Washington’s Federation investment, Brumbach said.

To further maximize resources, the WSBC uses Federation-funded business services such as human resources, IT and design services support. The state can also tap into expertise of national checkoff program staff, for specific professional guidance in areas like nutrition and market research.

“As a beef council, we’re generalists – jacks-of-all-trades,” Brumbach said. “Having national support in these areas is a tremendous advantage in freeing commission funds for other marketing efforts at the state level.”

Partnerships are another hallmark of many WSBC projects. One example is an annual tailgating promotion surrounding a popular college football rivalry. Partners include a retailer with 67 local outlets – who enjoyed an 8 percent increase in beef sales during 2011’s four-week promotion, Brumbach said. Certified Angus Beef is another partner, providing beef for the 8,000 cups of chili beef producers serve to fans on game day.

The WSBC also places a high priority on its Trust Initiative, designed to tell the modern beef production story and build consumer trust in the state’s beef industry. The initiative includes support for food banks, vital community service projects (like feeding those displaced by last summer’s wildfires), on-farm tours and beef sampling events. A key component of these efforts is that real Washington farmers and ranchers are at every event.

Brumbach noted that the state-national checkoff relationship has always been important to WSBC’s vigorous marketing efforts. The partnership delivers the efficiencies and expertise needed to execute the mission-specific programs that are important to the WSBC board.

WSBC at a Glance

Founded: In 1969, via state legislation.
Checkoff: State collects $1.50; 50 cents goes to Cattlemen’s Beef Board. WSBC determines how to allocate the remaining $1.
Famous For: WSBC launched the Holiday Roast promotion 20 years ago. It’s still used each year by many state beef councils and has delivered an estimated 6 million holiday roast brochures to consumers.
Issues Milestones: As the state hit by both the 1993 E. coli 0157:H7 outbreak at Jack in the Box and the first U.S. case of BSE, the WSBC has walked the walk on groundbreaking issues management cases.

Federation Supplements 2013 Checkoff Programs

NCBA — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DENVER - When the Beef Promotion Operating Committee (BPOC) met in September to review checkoff funding proposals, State Beef Councils (SBCs) were “at the table.”

The Federation elects 10 of its directors (who represent SBCs) annually to serve on the 20-member committee. The BPOC determines how to invest funding made available by the Cattlemen’s Beef Board. The Federation budget committee and executive committee determine how to allocate SBC contributions to national programs, based on SBC direction.

Through the Federation, SBCs contribute financially to the national checkoff programs of their choice. When SBCs elect to contribute funds to the Federation, the state board designates the category of funding, based on its priorities. Categories include domestic beef, domestic veal and foreign marketing. For FY 2013, the BPOC allocated just over $40.3 million to domestic and foreign marketing efforts. Through state-directed contributions, the Federation supplemented domestic beef promotion, research and education efforts by $4.9 million and domestic veal promotion by $45,000, for programs managed by the American National CattleWomen and NCBA. Through prioritized funding, SBCs contributed an additional $1.7 million to support foreign marketing efforts through projects managed by the U.S. Meat Export Federation.

2012-2013 Federation BPOC Members

(first row, L to R): Sid Viebrock, Wash.; Cevin Jones, Idaho; Linda Joy Stovall, Texas; Irv Petsch, Wyo; Becky Walth, S.D. (second row, L to R): Steve Hanson, Neb.; Craig Uden, Neb., Federation chair; Jerry Bohn, Kan.; Jerry Effertz, N.D.; Richard Gebhart, Okla., Federation vice chair.

State Beef Councils Supplement Checkoff Program Funding Through Federation of State Beef Councils

NCBA — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

- Nearly $6.6 Million Added to National, International Efforts

DENVER - Beef producers serving state beef council boards throughout the country have chosen to supplement national and international research, education and promotion programs funded by the Beef Checkoff Program by about $6.6 million in fiscal year 2013, which began Oct. 1. The supplemental funds, invested through the Federation of State Beef Councils, are to be added to $40.3 million invested through the Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) and approved by the Beef Promotion Operating Committee, which met in Denver Sept. 19 – 20. The Committee’s decisions were submitted to the full CBB and the USDA for approval.

State beef councils in 45 states are qualified to collect the full $1-per-head beef checkoff, and retain 50 cents of each dollar for use in authorized state, national and international programs. The other 50 cents is remitted to the Cattlemen’s Beef Board. Collections from beef importers, who must also pay the checkoff, and from cattle producers in states with no Qualified State Beef Council, are conducted by the CBB.

Some of the funds from states with high cattle numbers and low populations are invested through the Federation to extend national and international Beef Checkoff Program efforts in a coordinated way. Decisions about specific programs to fund are made by individual state beef councils.

“A coordinated state and national Beef Checkoff Program makes the most of the $1-per-head checkoff beef producers must pay,” said Craig Uden, a Nebraska beef producer and chairman of the Federation of State Beef Councils. “It also helps assure a grassroots decision-making process that allows producers at the state level to have additional say in how and where their beef checkoff dollars are invested.”

National programs are being supplemented through the Federation by $4.9 million, while international programs are receiving $1.7 in state checkoff funds. Demand-building efforts funded through the checkoff include promotion programs, such as consumer advertising, retail and foodservice marketing and new product and culinary initiatives; research programs focusing on sustainability, beef safety, product enhancement, human nutrition and market research; consumer information, including national consumer public relations and nutrition influencer relations; and industry information, comprising beef and dairy quality assurance programs and dissemination of accurate information about the industry to consumers. Foreign marketing includes promotion and education in numerous countries around the world.

The Federation of State Beef Councils is a division of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), which is a contractor to the Beef Checkoff Program. The program is administered by the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, with oversight provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The Iowa Beef Industry Council at 42

NCBA — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DENVER - Nancy Degner, executive director of the Iowa Beef Industry Council (IBIC), appreciates the many different aspects of her job. And at the top of her appreciation list are the cattlemen and women who have served on the IBIC board of directors over the years.

“The beef council has always had truly dedicated boards. They’re willing to give countless hours to serve as checkoff custodians on behalf of their fellow beef producers. They’re very serious about making wise decisions with Iowa’s 50-cent share of the $1 checkoff,” Degner explained.

Established in 1970, IBIC was an early contributor to the Beef Industry Council (BIC) of the Meat Board, which began managing national beef promotion in 1963. Iowa was in the vanguard of beef councils that saw the benefit of pooling state funds and supporting a coordinated statenational marketing strategy. Today beef councils invest in the Federation of State Beef Councils, which functions in the role of the former BIC.

In 2011-2012, the IBIC collected $3.4 million in checkoff assessments and, per federal law, sent 50 cents to the Cattlemen’s Beef Board for national and international programs. Generally Iowa sends 20 cents of its 50-cent share back to the Federation, to strengthen overall checkoff efforts, including international marketing, which is a program priority of the IBIC board, Degner explained.

Iowa is a one-hat state, meaning checkoff activities are managed by the beef council. The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, with 9,600 members, is a separate organization. However, the two groups share office space and do partner on some projects, Degner explained.

Perhaps their best-known joint effort is the governor’s annual charity steer auction at the state fair. IBIC and ICA have led this event for 30 years, raising more than $2 million for state Ronald McDonald Houses. The 2012 auction raised the most amount of money ever, and the top steer was the highest-selling in auction history.

Another popular IBIC/ICA promotion is the annual state “best burger” contest. The 2012 event received 212 nominees from 4,250 individuals, Degner said. The deliciously fun event works to highlight beef and build restaurants’ business. The 2012 winner, the Coon Bowl III, a diner/bowling alley in Coon Rapids, reported a 30 percent growth in sales just from being in the Top 10 last year, Degner added.

Iowa Claims to Fame

• IBIC was the first beef council in the country to reach 200 Masters of Beef Advocacy graduates
• The Hot Beef Sundae IBIC helped create for cattlemen to sell at the 1986 state fair made national news and is now a popular fair food around the country. Some 24,000 were sold at Iowa’s 2012 fair.
• Iowan Morris Larson, Spencer Livestock Sales, is the 2012 Beef Quality Assurance Marketer of the Year.

IBIC at a Glance

Board Makeup: At least 15, in a mix of appointed and elected representatives
Federation Board Seats: 5
State Checkoff History: Producers approved referendums every four years from 1970-1986.
First assessment: 10 cents a head on slaughter cattle

Ann Wittmann Reports on Federation Council Efforts

NCBA — Wed, 01 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

- Federation in Action at Cattle Industry Summer Conference

Ann Wittmann, chair of the Federation Advisory Council (FAC) of the Federation of State Beef Councils, reports on council efforts and the importance of state cooperation at the Federation Forum during the 2012 Cattle Industry Summer Conference in Denver July 26. Wittmann is executive director for the Wyoming Beef Council. The FAC is comprised of nine representatives from the 45 Qualified State Beef Councils around the country. The Federation of State Beef Councils is a division of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.

Federation of State Beef Councils Enhances Checkoff Program at Industry Summer Conference

NCBA — Tue, 31 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

- Promotional Grants Awarded, Changes to Committee Structure Approved

DENVER – Members of the Federation of State Beef Councils addressed changing industry and consumer landscapes during meetings at the 2012 Cattle Industry Summer Conference in Denver, July 25-28. As part of its efforts, the Federation approved changes to Joint Beef Checkoff Committees and awarded promotional grants to beef councils in states with a high consumer-to-cattle ratio.

Federation Chairman Craig Uden, a beef producer from Elwood, Neb., said the issue of declining checkoff resources and rising consumer expectations were particularly top of mind during the conference.

“As cattle numbers and checkoff collections are reduced, we’re going to need to find ways of increasing efficiencies,” Uden said. “At the same time, we can’t lose sight of the fact that consumers are expecting more information and transparency from food producers. Our work is certainly cut out for us as we seek ways of doing more with less.”

As part of its deliberations, the Federation executive committee awarded $46,500 in grants to five state beef councils for six promotional projects in the coming year. The awards were announced during the Federation Forum, July 26. “Our Federation Initiative Fund awards the grants, which provide needed financial support to small beef councils who are trying to localize national programs and reach large numbers of consumers in their states,” Uden said.

Grant awardees are:

Arizona: for starting a Team BEEF running group to demonstrate beef’s healthy benefits

Indiana: for a holiday beef roast retail promotion

Minnesota: for a nutrition influencer farm-to-fork tour

New York: for extending its foodservice influencer program

Pennsylvania: for plans to organize a Team BEEF group to demonstrate beef’s healthy benefits

The Federation Initiative Fund is supported by voluntary contributions from state beef councils, particularly those states with large cattle numbers and high checkoff collections. Applications are judged on several criteria, including how well a proposal fits the industry's Long Range Plan and its potential to help move the needle forward on beef demand.

Video: David Dick Interview

NCBA — Wed, 25 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In the following interview, the 2011 Federation chairman David Dick talks about the role of the Federation and the beef checkoff in increasing beef demand.

David Dick interview (126 MB)
(Video courtesy of Farm Progress Co./Missouri Ruralist)

Where the Checkoff Meets the Consumer

NCBA — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DENVER - The New York Beef Industry Council (NYBIC) has big numbers – just not big cattle numbers. The state is home to 19.1 million consumers and 1.4 million cattle, or 13.6 consumers for every cow. Quite different from a state like Nebraska, where cattle outnumber people nearly 4 to 1.

NYBIC's need to promote to and educate New Yorkers about beef is a prime example of the value of the Federation’s “share the load” checkoff strategy. New York’s budget is under $300,000, with the majority of dollars coming from the dairy industry. Without support from the Federation and high checkoff collection states such as Kansas, Nebraska and South Dakota, NYBIC could not afford to extend national checkoff programs in its population-rich cities. Here’s what Gillis had to say:

Q: What do these additional checkoff dollars mean for your state?

Gillis: The additional dollars have enabled us to add a registered staff dietitian, to train foodservice distributors and student chefs at culinary schools. We’re able to participate in more nutrition conferences and have developed a major partnership with the Boilermaker, a famous 15K road race that draws thousands of runners and spectators, who hear our message that beef is “Fuel for the Finish.”

Q: What is your biggest 2012 program priority?

Gillis: This year our focus in on strengthening the image of beef and our industry among influencers and consumers. Our biggest outreach efforts this year have been four beef farm tours and a veal tour. Since our state has primarily small operations, beef producers from around the country have helped us present a picture of the entire industry to our audiences. Craig Uden came from Nebraska to represent the feedlot sector on a farm tour. During Beef Month, Wanda and Ed Blair from South Dakota helped provide tour participants with perspective on the large beef operations in the Midwest and Western states. And Nebraska producers come to our state fair every year to help us talk to consumers about beef production. The NYBIC is fortunate to receive such whole-hearted support from the Federation, our fellow beef councils and their generous producers.

NYBIC at a Glance

History – Established in 1986 as a Qualified State Beef Council to collect the national checkoff

Federation Participation: Invest in a veal and beef director seat

Board Makeup: 9 directors Directors are appointed by the N.Y. Beef Producers Association, N.Y. Farm Bureau, Northeast Dairy Producers Association and N.Y. Veal Growers. One director is from the Cattlemen’s Beef Board and a livestock market representative is chosen by the NYBIC board.

Did You Know: New York ranks third in the country in dairy cows, with a ratio of 6-to-1 dairy to beef animals. Yet in 2011, New York was one of a few states that saw a rise in beef cattle numbers.

Federation of State Beef Councils Basics

NCBA — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DENVER - The Federation of State Beef Councils was the topic of the May 15 NCBA’s Cattlemen to Cattlemen TV program. Here are some highlights:

The Federation is grounded through the 45 checkoff-collecting Qualified State Beef Councils (QSBC) that choose its board members. The board makes independent decisions, including the management of its financial resources and actions.

The Federation – with a history that goes back nearly 50 years – has an administrative home within the NCBA. This allows it to take advantage of staff and business services and create a synergistic connection with teams carrying out checkoff-funded and industry-strengthening programs.

State Beef Councils (SBCs) invest voluntarily in the Federation. That decision is made by 707 beef producers who currently sit on SBC boards around the country. SBC directors represent a wide variety of industry organizations and sectors.

States such as Nebraska and Wyoming, which have more cattle than consumers, invest in the Federation to help redistribute promotion and education dollars to parts of the country where the most people live. The idea of moving money from high collecting states to high population centers is a foundational purpose of the Federation.

The Federation invests more than $5 million annually to augment the national checkoff. SBCs, in turn, extend national programs within their states. The Federation assists state extension by developing materials and other resources, and helping align strategies.

The Federation also manages a grant program that is supported by voluntary state contributions. Grants that work to help increase beef demand are awarded to states with high consumer populations. For example, the New York Beef Industry Council, with a budget under $300,000 and 19 million consumers, has received grants for outreach to consumers and a variety of influencer groups.

Finally, Federation funds provide SBCs access to a wide variety of business services, including communications materials, public relations counseling, crisis management advice, extension support from national program teams, comprehensive IT support, personnel consulting and strategic business planning assistance.

Note: The Federation program will be rebroadcast on July 10, at 8 p.m. EST on RFD-TV. You can also watch it online by going to the archives for May 15, at www.cattlementocattlemen.org.

Deep in the Heart of Texas

NCBA — Tue, 08 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DENVER - If two heads are better than one, then the Texas Beef Council (TBC) houses nine times that amount of brain power.

Representing the nation’s largest cattle producing state, it’s not surprising the beef council has 18 employees, with onstaff expertise in many areas, from Beef Quality Assurance and domestic marketing to producer communications and nutrition. And, unlike most beef councils, TBC operates in a state with large checkoff collections and a population of more than 25 million people.

TBC has robust state programs, yet its board has always voluntarily committed additional checkoff dollars through the Federation to support additional national and international marketing efforts. This voluntary support has historically been a 60/40 split between domestic and international expenditures, according to Richard Wortham, TBC executive director.

“We understand the need for demand-building efforts beyond our borders,” Wortham explained. “Even though we’re a high population state, we want to insure that plenty of beef is sold everywhere there’s a high consumer population.”

To insure effective, targeted programs, the TBC includes its entire expert staff in work planning sessions. Decisions are based on how well potential programs align with the national long range plan: to increase consumer preference for beef; to strengthen beef ’s image; and to capitalize on global market growth.

“We look at strategies as a group,” Wortham said. “We look at how to make programs richer by including as many touch points as we can, be it retail, foodservice, producer communications or influencers. We believe this creates better results for the cattle producers who pay the checkoff.”

Linda Bebee, a native Texan who has been at TBC for more than 20 years, is vice president of domestic marketing. Over the years, she’s witnessed the value of the state-national partnership in carrying out core market strategies. She cited an example of how a prime marketing message evolved in large part through state-national collaborative input.

“Several years ago we realized that inaccurate consumer perceptions about beef nutrition were a huge barrier to selling our product,” Bebee explained. “We worked with the national checkoff to bring nutrition professionals on board. We helped make the case for a single campaign combining beef desirability and nutrition messages. That’s one of our biggest positives today. We have 29 lean cuts. We have the science to document beef nutrition, as well as the market research showing consumers respond positively to that news.”

These strong messages answer the long range plan’s call and work double-time from the grassroots up to entice consumers to make beef their preferred protein, Bebee noted.

Wortham added that the state-national partnership will be even more important in the coming years. Like other beef councils, TBC is feeling the financial effect of declining cattle numbers. Texas has also faced a huge drop in cattle numbers due to catastrophic drought, which continues in some parts of the state.

“Over the past 20 years, our checkoff has averaged around $12 million a year. Our 2013 projection is around $9.6 million. There’s less money everywhere so the challenge will be how to invest producer dollars to get the biggest bang. We’ll need interdependent strategies that work at the national and state levels. We’ll need to really sharpen our focus on our target audiences.”

TBC at a Glance

Year Established: 1986
Number of cattle ranchers in the state: 135,000
Board Structure: 20 members, nominated by eligible cattle organizations/industry segments listed below.
- Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers (3)
- Texas Cattle Feeders Association (3)
- Texas Farm Bureau (3)
- Independent Cattlemen’s Association (2)
- Texas purebred cattle associations, as a group (2)
- Texas dairy associations, as a group (2)
- Texas livestock markets, as a group (1)
- Meat packer/exporter associations, as a group (1)
- Texas CattleWomen (1)
- At Large (2)

The TBC board approves all directors, and at-large directors, who are appointed by the chair: Current Federation Directors: Ken Leiber, Coleman Locke, Susie O’Brien, Jason Peeler, Jerry Spencer, Linda Joy Stovall, Don Smith, Roger Clift (revenue seat). Don Smith is the immediate past Region IV Vice President BPOC: Linda Joy Stovall is one of 10 Federation representatives on the Beef Promotion Operating Committee

The State-National Checkoff Partnership in Action

NCBA — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

PORTLAND, Ore. - A Running Lean Beef Billboard - Extreme athlete Dane Rauschenberg hardly looks like he just ran the 350-mile Oregon coast in seven days to promote beef and a healthy lifestyle -- but he did.

His adventure was powered via a promotional grant to the Oregon Beef Council from the Federation of State Beef Councils, and unique cooperative support from the Washington State Beef Commission (WSBC) and the California and Idaho beef councils. Rauschenberg began running April 2, on the California border and finished April 8, when he crossed the bridge at Astoria, Ore., and into Washington. Along the way he stopped at high schools to talk with young Oregonians, and adults, about the importance of exercise and good nutrition, like that found in lean beef.

On April 9, he spoke and ran a “recovery” mile with 230 track and consumer science students at Franklin High School in Portland. The students received “Fuel for the Finish” t-shirts, and enjoyed beef chili and beef jerky, thanks to on-and-offsite support of WSBC, Painted Hills Natural Beef and the Idaho Beef Council. Oregon and Washington beef producers joined the festivities, too.

“Reaching the kids with this message, and seeing them react, was the best part of this week,” said Oregon SBC Executive Director Will Wise, who traveled the route – by bike and car -- as Rauschenberg’s logistics man, official photographer and media relations contact.

Power in Partnerships

NCBA — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DENVER - For the past several years, the Federation leadership has been working to increase the visibility and understanding of what is sometimes called the “checkoff division” of NCBA. The roots of the Federation stretch back to the voluntary checkoff in the 1920s. They run through the birth of state beef councils in the 1950s, through the Beef Industry Council of the National Live Stock and Meat Board, and were such an integral partner in marketing beef that the organization was written into the act and order that establishes the mandatory beef checkoff.

This ongoing page in National Cattlemen helps us continue to put a “face” on the Federation and its relationship to state beef councils, which are the foundation of the checkoff. It also aims to create a better understanding of how the Federation, through voluntary State Beef Council (SBC) investments, works to strengthen the state/national checkoff partnership. The Federation augments the national checkoff program by some $10 million a year. The beef councils then become the conduit by which national checkoff programs and priorities are extended at the grassroots level.

The beef councils give us a real touch to consumers, stakeholders and influencers in the communities where they live. They are the first-line advocates for our products. They promote, educate and influence the public about beef and confront and counter negative attitudes about beef that might otherwise go answered. In turn, their ability to do this comes from programs, materials and staff expertise made possible by the national checkoff.

It’s a critical partnership that has been working for us as producers for a very long time. I personally have been involved in several projects that reached far beyond any one geographic border through the combined resources of multiple beef councils, national staff, professionally-produced materials and hands-on participation by scientists, culinary experts and other experts who conduct work on behalf of the checkoff. That makes one powerful team to speak on our behalf, I can assure you.

The Federation goes a step further by awarding grants each year for high-profile beef promotions staged by beef councils in high population areas of the country. In Nashville, the Federation executive committee awarded $181,325 for efforts in cities and states where millions of people live. It’s yet another example of pooling funds and the power of partnerships.

In trying to make our “face” more familiar to producers, the Federation board has taken several proactive steps to define its independence as a producer-led entity, while maintaining efficiencies that come from its relationship to NCBA. For more details on all that we’ve done, visit the Federation pages on BeefUSA.org. While the firewall between policy and checkoff dollars is locked in place, the Federation also retains a valuable partnership with NCBA. I’d like to thank former chair David Dick and the entire executive committee as they went above and beyond the call of duty to support the Federation this past year. Each of these individuals contributed great talent and total dedication to our efforts. I look forward to the same experience working with the 2012-2013 executive committee. I would also add my congratulations to J.D. Alexander, NCBA president, and Scott George, president-elect, who have both chaired the Federation.

We’re all in this together. I assure you that the Federation is fully committed to our part of the equation – to inspire and support a strong state/national checkoff partnership that will make the most of your checkoff dollars.

Craig Uden, Chair, Federation of State Beef Councils

Leadership Critical to Checkoff Programming

NCBA — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DENVER - From the more than 650 beef producers, importers and industry stakeholders who serve on state beef council (SBC) boards of directors, to the 20 individuals who serve on the Beef Promotion Operating Committee (BPOC), beef industry leadership is key to a successful checkoff program.

At the state level, each beef council board is unique in its composition and how it reflects the state’s beef industry. In some states board members are elected, while in others they are appointed by industry organizations, a government agency or a government official to represent a specific industry segment. Regardless of how a board is comprised, the fiduciary responsibility of its members is the same – to provide strategic direction in checkoff programming and to assure accountability of producers’ investment in the program.

SBC directors make the decision to invest funds from the “state’s 50 cents” of the $1 checkoff in the Federation of State Beef Councils, and at what monetary level. By investing in the Federation, each participating SBC earns board and committee representation within NCBA, proportionate to its investment. Approximately 90 producers, appointed by their SBC, serve on the NCBA Federation Division board and on program committees. Their role in these positions is essential in directing how best to invest checkoff dollars to increase demand for beef.

Federation directors also have a role in the BPOC, which sets the checkoff budget and programs each year. The committee is comprised of 10 representatives from the Federation and 10 representatives from the Cattlemen’s Beef Board. This body reviews Authorization Requests (ARs are detailed plans of work) and has the authority to contract with established national nonprofit industry-governed organizations to implement programs of promotion, research, consumer information and industry information.

Overseeing the checkoff dollar is a serious responsibility, from state collection to investment in programs that drive beef demand globally. It requires engagement from leaders at all levels. Ultimately, that responsibility starts at the state level.

Hats Off to Federation Volunteer Leaders

NCBA — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DENVER - The annual cattle industry convention always brings a changing of the guard among some Federation leadership positions. In Nashville, the Federation welcomed new officers, as well as some new regional vice presidents and Federation members who will serve a one-year term on the Beef Promotion Operating Committee (BPOC).

The 2012-13 Federation chair is Craig Uden, a cow-calf producer and feeder from Elwood, Neb. He served as vice chair last year. Richard Gebhart, a cattleman from Rogers County, Okla., is the new Federation vice chair.

Newly elected to represent the Federation as regional vice presidents on the NCBA executive committee are: Garry Wiley, Mich., Region I; Clay Burtrum, Okla., Region IV; and Sid Viebrock, Wash., Region V. They join the existing RVPs: Jennifer Houston, Tenn., Region II; Terri Carstensen, Iowa, Region III; Jane Frost, N.M., Region VI; and Becky Walth, S.D., Region VII. Richard Ayers, a veal producer from Argyle, N.Y., replaces Ray Krones, Indiana, as the Federation’s veal representative to the executive committee. Dawn Caldwell replaces Bill Rhea as a Nebraska Revenue Seat.

The Federation approved eight of its 10 representatives to the BPOC, which decides the final national checkoff program plan each year. As Federation chair and vice chair, who are standing BPOC members, Uden and Gebhart will serve, as well as Federation representatives Jerry Bohn, Kan.; Jerry Effertz, N.D.; Steve Hanson, Neb.; Cevin Jones, Idaho; Irv Petsch, Wyo.; Linda Joy Stovall, Texas; Sid Viebrock, Wash.; and Becky Walth, S.D.

Federation Funds Handy New Shopping Tool

NCBA — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DENVER - Consumers can now do more than “see red” when standing at the meat case deciding on beef purchases. Now there’s no need for shoppers to ponder an unfamiliar beef cut or how to prepare it, and walk away from a purchase, causing them to miss out on a delicious new beef eating experience. Now, a 100 percent Federation-funded mobile addition to BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com takes consumers right to the site’s Interactive Meat Case. The IMC will give them all they need to know to put beef in the grocery cart.

The new capability means shoppers can learn about cuts and proper preparation methods, as well as find recipes, nutrition information and create a shopping list right from their mobile device, no matter where they happen to be physically. This new service is available because the Federation of State Beef Councils voted to provide some of its surplus dollars to increase the 2012 national checkoff budget, allowing some unfunded projects to be funded. NCBA’s (a checkoff contractor) team worked for about six months, researching the best technology to deliver the IMC efficiently to the mobile platforms most used by consumers: iPhone, Droid, Blackberry, iPad and “non-smart” phones with web browsers that allow the user to receive a text-based view.

It comes as no surprise that the mobile applications on BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com opens the door to a massive audience. The U.S. now has more mobile phones than it does people, with consumers using an average 6 billion minutes a day.

Riding the Range for Wyoming Ranchers

NCBA — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DENVER - Wyoming Beef Council (WBC) Executive Director Ann Wittmann has a daunting schedule. Take this page from a recent day on her calendar: work on the WBC’s budget and marketing plan which her board will vote on in April; drive 178 miles to Casper, Wyo., to facilitate a WBC-sponsored Masters of Beef Advocacy class; assist in the setup of a Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) training; drive three hours to Gillette to speak to cardiac rehab patients about the heart-healthy findings in the new Beef in an Optimal Lean Diet (BOLD) study; and head home, stopping on the way to visit with a retail meat manager.

For Wittmann, who was raised on a cattle ranch and whose family began ranching on the Green River in the 1860s, it’s a dream job.

“I love all the responsibilities that come with this job. I’ve never been bored. It’s just not possible. And I work with great folks. The beef industry tends to attract the most dedicated and passionate people,” she said. “Every day I am reminded of how remarkable they are.”

Mary Neese, the WBC’s only other staff member, who works three-quarter time, agreed. “I grew up on a ranch but my dad retired before the mandatory checkoff,” Neese said. “I knew nothing about it when I came on board here seven years ago. What I’ve learned since then, seeing our producers’ dedication – it makes me really proud to do this job so they can do theirs.”

The WBC was authorized by statute passed in the 1971 Wyoming legislature. Charter members set the collection rate to support the fledgling marketing program at 10 cents per head. One of the WBC’s first expenditures was a $10,000 contribution to the Beef Industry Council (BIC), which at the time managed national beef promotions. The WBC is still an ardent supporter of that partnership and through its investments in the Federation of State Beef Councils (formerly the BIC), has three directors on the Federation board, Wittmann explained.

Wyoming is also a strong historical supporter of foreign marketing, having contributed more than $1 million to that effort over the years.

“The overriding priority is to support national and international checkoff programs,” Wittmann said. “By pooling checkoff dollars with other beef councils, Wyoming checkoff dollars have the greatest potential to affect a positive change in consumer behavior. “Wyoming ranchers receive a greater return on their checkoff investment by working together through programs to reach consumers where beef is being consumed, rather than where it’s being raised.”

Wittmann is also the 2012-13 chair of the Federation Advisory Council, a group of SBC executives who advise the Federation on industry and state issues.

Positives, Challenges Recognized at Beef Industry Safety Summit

NCBA — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DENVER - It was at the same time a celebration of a decade of beef safety progress and a solemn recognition of the long road ahead. When about 230 food safety experts gathered in Tampa, Fla., for the 10th anniversary of the Beef Industry Safety Summit in early March, they heard about the beef industry’s success in improving beef safety and increasing consumer confidence in the product. But they also acknowledged more can be done to address pathogen issues.

Encouraging words didn’t just come from within the industry. Bill Marler of the law firm Marler Clark, who has litigated many lawsuits involving E. coli O157:H7 contamination – including the Jack-in-the-Box outbreak, an industry E. coli challenge 20 years ago – told the group through a keynote panel that his litigation business has gone from about 95 percent beef industry-related 20 years ago to less than 5 percent today.

“You can tell from the marketplace that the industry has done a helluva job,” he told the food safety experts in attendance. “That’s a tribute to everyone in this room.”

During the panel presentation Dave Theno, hired immediately after the Jack-in-the-Box outbreak to develop new food safety systems for the company, said the tragedy was a wake-up call that led to the formation of the Beef Industry Food Safety Council (BIFSCo), which in turn helped create best safety practices to help beef companies improve their operations. But it was a 19 million pound ground beef recall at ConAgra in 2002 that was the impetus for creating the Beef Industry Safety Summit, which brings together leading food safety experts every year to share their ideas for making the U.S. beef supply safer.

Theno said the first summit in 2003 helped people reach across their individual beef industry sector and build bridges to think differently about feed safety. “To win this battle, everyone needs to work together,” said Theno. “We’re not in the cattle business anymore, we’re in the food business.”

Both Theno and Marler cautioned the audience that complacency was not an option.

“If you’re not focused on food safety, your priorities are messed up, because food safety is the one thing you bet your business on every day,” said Theno. Marler agreed. “You still have things to do,” he said. “You must recommit yourselves to the process.” Marler said that while national recalls have decreased significantly over the last 10 years, regional challenges still remain, and those “could have devastating consequences.”

Other speakers during the 3-day Summit, funded in part by the Beef Checkoff Program, said that while the industry has rightfully been focusing on E. coli O157:H7, other pathogens now pose significant challenges for the industry. Brian Covington, global director of regulatory affairs at Keystone Foods, said Salmonella is being scrutinized across species, and beef will incur its share of attention. The pathogen, which can live in an animal’s lymphatic system, will remain an industry challenge and E. coli O157:H7 may lose the spotlight.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) cites Salmonella as the foodborne pathogen responsible for the most hospitalizations and deaths in the United States and the second most illnesses, behind norovirus. All strains of E. coli (including E. coli O157:H7) are responsible for about 20 deaths each year.

Participants Optimistic

Several Summit participants from the cattle production sector of the industry gave high marks to current post-harvest interventions, but thought more could be done throughout the beef production chain. They also thought it was important producers continue to support these kinds of efforts through their Beef Checkoff Program.

“This Beef Safety Summit is a perfect example of how things are getting better,” according to Dina Chacon-Reitzel, executive director of the New Mexico Beef Council (NMBC), which provided funding to the Summit from state-directed Beef Checkoff dollars. “Progress is made when all of these safety experts come together and freely share their information.”

Roger Clift, a commercial cattle feeder and processor from the North Texas panhandle, agreed, and said that while many factors will always play a role in beef production, food safety will continue to be a top priority. The Summit helps reflect that beef producer commitment to the challenge.

“From environmental stewardship to food safety, beef producers really care,” said Clift, who also serves as the 2012 Texas Beef Council chairman. “And I think all checkoff payers can be proud of what the industry is doing” on beef safety with their checkoff investments.

Chacon-Reitzel said cattlemen are an integral element in pressing for positive food safety results. “Even though I know that cattlemen are very capable in what they do, and care about their cattle and making the best quality beef product out there, seeing the food safety experts all getting together to see how they can make beef safer is valuable,” she said. “It’s just incredible to see how these people are using advanced practices and research, doing everything they can to make a better beef product for consumers.”

Part of the producer involvement in beef safety has been in helping advance pre-harvest beef safety strategies. Through the Beef Checkoff Program, research has been funded to identify practices and interventions that can effectively reduce the pathogens carried by the live animal that, while not causing illness to the animal, can challenge the effectiveness of post-harvest safety interventions.

Focusing on Essentials

“Beef safety may not be the most fun and interesting subject to a lot of cattlemen, but it’s the most crucial,” said Ashley Hughes, director of beef marketing and promotion for the Florida Beef Council (FBC). “If we don’t have a safe product to provide consumers, we’re going to lose them. They can’t have questions about our industry and what we do.”

Hughes uses what she learns from food safety events to educate a variety of audiences, including consumers. “Whenever we come up with new programs, food safety will always be top-of-mind,” she said. “We want consumers to know how to cook delicious beef, but we also want them to know how to handle it safely.”

Chacon-Reitzel agreed that consumer knowledge and confidence is the bottom line for producers. Consumers are “at the end of the chain,” she said. “That’s why we take our education programs for consumers so seriously, because we do everything we can to make sure that we’re producing safe beef all the way through the chain, but when it gets to the consumer’s home they need to handle it properly.”

Also attending the Beef Industry Safety Summit was Clay Burtrum, a cow-calf/stocker producer from Stillwater, Okla., who commented on the benefits of industry-directed beef safety from a personal viewpoint. “I’ve got three children at home, and I feed them beef because of what I know is going on behind the scenes,” he said. “We’re not just in the cattle business, we’re in the food business. If consumers don’t feel safe with our product it doesn’t matter what we produce, because they won’t buy it.”

Burtrum, who also serves as a regional vice president for the Federation of State Beef Councils, said research shows that consumer confidence in beef is high. “You can also witness that by seeing the higher prices and the fact that people are still buying and serving the product today,” he said.

Still, FBC’s Hughes believes the entire chain needs attention when it comes to beef safety. “With the information I learn at the Beef Industry Safety Summit, I can go back and show (producers) some of the research that’s been done and some of the practices taking place to produce the safest beef product, which is what they expect.”

Those expectations have taken on chain-wide implications. Learning what is being done after a beef animal leaves a ranch or feedlot helps producers renew their commitment to reduce pathogens in the animals they market. The Summit provided information on both pre- and post-harvest interventions and practices to improve beef safety.

“I think beef producers should know their checkoff investment is being used very wisely here,” said Chacon-Reitzel. “The checkoff is really the impetus in many of the advancements in beef safety. And whether it’s the research, developing interventions, disseminating information to consumers or sharing information like we’re doing at the Beef Safety Summit, the checkoff is where it begins. That might not have happened if we hadn’t put our own (checkoff) resources behind it.”

Commentary by Chairman Craig Uden

NCBA — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

--Take Us to Our Leaders

"Eighty percent of success is showing up.” - Woody Allen

While Woody has a point, he misses the bigger picture. Success isn’t just about you. And when it is about you, others play a role.

For those of us who serve in various capacities in cattle producer organizations, in fact, success is about the industry’s future. It’s about continuing a way of life for our children. And it’s about gaining ideas and information from others we can use in our own operations.

As the pool of cattle producers becomes smaller, however, we’re facing a Catch 22. Our organizations rely on participation, and on a revolving leadership. We need more people to step up, and there are fewer people out there to do so.

Let’s face it: no one has unlimited and continuing supply of time to give to industry issues. We depend on people who invest their time and energy, then get back to their lives as beef producers.

Sure, “just showing up” is important. The record-setting 8,216 people who attended the 2012 Cattle Industry Convention in Nashville, Tenn., are a testament to that. But thanks to our dwindling numbers our challenge has become pronounced. In short, there are still too few of “us,” and too many of those who wish our industry harm.

The truth is, the only way we can make an impact individually is to get actively involved. It’s going to take more individuals who choose to lend their time and energy to the industry that has provided us with a living, a livelihood and a lifestyle.

Among the positive personal benefits is that we get better at what we do learning from others. Good ideas are not kept in a jar; they’re shared, and by learning better ways of doing our jobs we advance our operations and our industry.

Showing up is just the start. To put it bluntly, sitting on the sidelines will not keep our industry moving forward, nor will passively attending meetings and raising your hand only when it comes time to count the “ayes.” We need more producers with vision and a sense of greater good to get it done.

If you have chosen to stay away from the cattlemen’s or state beef council meetings, take Woody’s advice and show up – even if it’s just to see how things work. Learn the ropes of your local or state organization. Find out about its history and set of core beliefs. Get to know the leaders and the other volunteers. Sit on committees that interest you. Volunteer when they need a chair, or run for the office. Go to the convention.

Keep an open mind, but speak up! Don’t rely on your neighbors to carry your opinions about how your dollars are spent, or how your organizations are run. You must be present to help make decisions, but unless you make your voice heard you won’t have an impact. Don’t be bashful; set your sights on organizational offices. Bide your time when necessary. There’s continually a search for good leaders at every level. Talk to some current leaders and see how they got where they are.

Leadership isn’t about which member has the biggest ego, or which one has the most ambition. It’s about ideas. It’s about involvement. It’s about putting in the time and effort to build a committed team that is focused on common goals and targets.

Your community and your industry are looking for dedicated people who are willing to support the kind of lifestyle they enjoy, and want for their children. Success starts with showing up.

###

Craig Uden is a fourth generation cattleman from Elwood, Neb. He is a partner in Darr Feedlot Inc., a commercial cattle feeding operation. He and his wife, Terri, also own and manage three commercial cow-calf operations. Uden serves as chairman of the NCBA Federation of State Beef Councils, and has held numerous leadership positions with local, state and national organizations.

Federation of State Beef Councils Finalize Business During Cattle Industry Convention

NCBA — Sat, 05 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

--Group adopts “independence” charter, elects FY 2011 leaders

DENVER – The Federation of State Beef Councils today adopted a charter that details its financial and decision-making independence from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA). The approval was among several business actions the Federation took during the NCBA and Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) joint board meeting, marking the conclusion of the cattle industry’s 2011 annual convention, held here Feb. 2-5.

The 12-point “Federation Charter of Principles” details independent functions, such as financial practices, while also retaining beneficial business ties (i.e., non-profit tax status) the two entities have shared during their 15-year relationship. A Federation Structure Working Group drafted the charter in response to a resolution passed by Federation directors at the summer 2010 cattle industry conference.

“The board gave us the job of finding a way to better communicate how we operate independently from NCBA, without ending our long partnership,” said Scott George, a Wyoming dairy and beef producer who chaired the Federation in FY 2010 and led the working group. “This charter spells all that out in black and white, so our intentions and operations are transparent to our fellow beef producers and stakeholders.”

A number of the charter’s provisions were already being practiced, George added. New elements address issues such as operational agreements and compliance processes.

In other business, the Federation elected David Dick, a Missouri cow-calf producer, as its FY 2011 chairman, and Craig Uden, a Nebraska feeder, as vice chairman. Dick served as Federation vice chairman last year.

Newly elected to represent the Federation as regional vice presidents on the NCBA executive committee are Jennifer Houston, Tenn., Region II and Jane Frost, N.M., Region VI. Jon Ferguson, Kan.; Bill Rhea, Neb.; and Roger Clift, Texas, are the Federation revenue seat representatives on the executive committee.

By law, the Federation also selects 10 representatives to the Beef Promotion Operating Committee (BPOC), which decides the final national checkoff program plan each year. In FY 2011 these representatives are Federation chair David Dick and vice chair Craig Uden, joined by Sally Angell, Mo.; Jerry Bohn, Kan.; Richard Gebhart, Okla.; Cevin Jones, Idaho; Linda Joy Stovall, Texas; Sid Viebrock, Wash.; Becky Walth, S.D.; and Jim Wilson, Ore.

The Federation also chose its FY 2011 Federation Advisory Council (FAC), comprised of state beef council executives, who advise the Federation on a variety of issues and initiatives. Members include: Richard Wortham, Texas, chairman; Nancy Jo Bateman, N.D., vice chair; Nancy Degner, Iowa; Carol Gillis, N.Y.; Sammy Blossom, Miss.; Dina Reitzel, N.M.; Ann Whittman, Wyo.; Jim Handley, Fla.; and Ann Marie Bosshamer, Neb., immediate past chairman.

Federation of State Beef Councils Vote to Stay with NCBA

NCBA — Sat, 31 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

DENVER - The Federation of State Beef Councils passed a resolution July 31, 2010, during the Cattle Industry Summer Conference in Denver, Colo., to maintain its partnership with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Federation Division Chair Scott George said the members of the Federation voted to continue its current operating structure with NCBA. However, George said it was clear that greater independence is needed but not separation.

“We asked our Federation people where they want to be housed. The issue was whether or not the Federation should be separated from NCBA or stay with the national organization,” said George, who is also a Wyoming dairy and beef producer. “They decided to stay under the NCBA umbrella but act in a more independent manner. As we move forward, we will be working to develop a structure that ensures greater independence, while still maintaining our 14-year successful working relationship with NCBA.”

George said the driving factor behind the Federation’s vote was efficiency of resources. He said during the 14-year history with NCBA, the Federation has been able to rapidly address issues that could potentially impact the beef industry.

“As we debate this issue, I cannot help but remember seven years ago when the first case of BSE (bovine spongiform encephalopathy) was discovered in the United States,” he said. “It was because of this outstanding partnership that the discovery did not have a devastating impact on U.S. cattle producers.”