The American CattleWoman - Spring 2024 Edition

THE AMERICAN CATTLEWOMAN

Building For The Future

Ruth Coffey, OK | ANCW President

Greetings! I want to thank my predecessor, Pam Griffin, for all the efforts she has put forth in representing ANCW as our president We are so proud of the ANCW presence she has made as she’s spoken to the State Affiliate CattleWomen and Cattlemen’s State meetings across the US Pam has continued our rallying call for encouraging our members to renew memberships or sign up to get involved.

It is because of many of you who have inspired me to step up to serve as ANCW President It is you who are the leaders of this organization who motivate others to continue attending and bringing in new faces Between home obligations and commitments, ANCW’s future relies on those who strive to support and grow our organization Thank you for the guidance and leadership you have shown which inspired members throughout the years. I am honored to serve as your next American National CattleWomen President

IN THIS ISSUE

My ANCW influences have ranged in age from 20 – 90 All of us have stories that have impacted our lives and caused us to be an influence to someone without even realizing it We must invite all those willing to preserve what this organization has strived to accomplish since it all began at Mrs. Ralph Cowan’s 4 Bar Ranch in 1939. In their 90’s Jean Barton, CA, and Jean Bunch, OR maintain their memberships and strive to inspire members to step up and get involved Jean Barton has recorded CA Cattlewomen and ANCW’s history through countless reports and photos while attending her state and ANCW’s events Jean Bunch, her mother, and daughters were Cowbelles before they were Cattlewomen. When it comes to educating the public and promoting our industry, these women stand out amongst their peers UPCOMING

American National CattleWomen

Attn: Ashley Hughes PO Box 700038 St. Cloud, FL 34770

Email: ancw@ancw org

Volume LII | Issue I

January | February | March

Questions or Comments?

Contact the ANCW Newsletter Editor Cheyenne Sparks communications@ancw org

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The American CattleWoman is published quarterly: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter The American CattleWoman is designed to promote and develop ANCW programs and membership It is a newsletter published to inform and serve the membership and to interest individuals in the American National CattleWomen, Inc association

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2024 ANCW Leadership

President: Ruth Coffey - OK

President-Elect: Nikki Weston - UT

Vice President: Casey Matzke - TX

Recording Secretary: Connie Tabor - OK

Executive Director: Ashley Hughes - FL

Treasurer: Melinda Sarman - NV

Past President: Pam Griffin - AZ

Parliamentarian: Wanda Pinnow - MT

BOD Chair: Leslee Lohrenz – MT

Region I Director: Brenda Kocher - OH

Region II Director: Beth Barber Jones - TN

Region III Director: Debbie Chute – MN

Region IV Director: Cheyenne Sparks – OK

Region V Director: Katharine Bruce - OR

Region VI Director: Callie Martinez - CA

Region VII Director: Beckie Christensen - ND

ANCW Leadership LtR: President Ruth Coffey of Oklahoma, President-Elect Nikki Weston of Utah and Vice President Casey Matzke of Texas.

PHOTO BY MARTIN

[continued from cover] My presidential theme for this next year Is “Understanding our Past in order to Build 4 the Future My Presidential Goal is to encourage our Executive Team and Committee Chairs to invite members to become a working part of ANCW To accomplish this, I plan to see more membership involvement through committee participation. I believe committee reports submitted as news releases, meetings, and interest members into b ANCW Members have r -ed me to keep in mind matter young or older, y bring infinite contributi yet to be realized. The t our members bring wit are what makes us stan amongst our counterpa hope you will be encou to become a part of our membership. Please co committee involvemen great place to get starte ANCW today!

Knowing where we c who we are and guides to be. This is why my Ha g y #Building4theFuture. In my younger years, I would never have considered working my way up to a presidential position I needed time and opportunities to help get me to this place Several ANCW leaders encouraged me as I proceeded as a member, to join their committees and in time, I did. It was a daunting thought, not knowing anyone and would my contributions be of interest to anyone? Last, the opportunity to serve came when a former Oklahoma CattleWoman President encouraged me to serve on the Membership and Communications Committee At that time this huge responsibility was one committee. In my opinion, our Committee Chair, Beth Anderson, was awesome! She was demanding yet kind and encouraging

This opportunity enabled me to get to know our members through editing their articles and grow in relationships with the committee members I worked with I later chose to commit to other committees I share this story with you because I know there are some members who are reading this article who may have a similar background to mine.

It is my goal as President to #Build 4The Future our tables We must MUST grow ANCW into uture With your personal vement, we can be ed this organization will nue to be available to ext generations. I would o thank all those who shared their time and ts with us and hope of you will get enthused come a part of our past ng to build for ANCW’s e! Before I close, there is more person who has ly supported and member I must

Pinnow This lady has g y mentarian for my term as President. During her presidency, Wanda told us she had been diagnosed with Cancer When she gave her presidential address, she told our membership she would proceed with business as usual Wanda has has done exactly that! She has faced this disease like a force to be reckoned with. When ANCW members attended the last 2023 legislative trip, Wanda was stepping out in front of many of us wearing sandals on the DC streets! This lady is amazing! She has made a huge impact on my life and the lives of others

Thank you, Wanda, for stepping back into action as

ANCW President Elect Report

Nikki Weston, UT | ANCW President-Elect

mine, Nancy Weston was raised in old. All her siblings are great n high school and college. Her trophies and awards on display on the living room wall Nancy's siblings have many individual awards The family recently gathered for a family party and my friend’s son and daughter were discussing the display They wondered why their mother had so few and everyone else had so many Nancy’s brother (who coaches the Kansas City Chiefs) told her kids that Nancy had the best part of the wall She has more team state championships than all the other siblings She is a great team player and still is to this day. ANCW is a winning team and you are an important part. We are more than “ a voice for women who share a passion for the beef

industry with a focus on Beef Promotion, Education, and Legislation.” CattleWomen feed my soul. I feel good spending time with you.

CattleWomen

May we be them, May we know them,

May we raise them.

There is a sisterhood here. I want to stand with you as we face the challenges thrown at us as women, mothers, daughters, sisters, influencers, producers, and businesswomen

We need your light, love, character, and faith We need your conviction, your ability to lead, wisdom, and your voice Whatever your circumstance we need, your impressions, insights, and inspiration We need you to speak out and speak up We cannot duplicate your unique input As we work together we can accomplish great things for our families, ANCW, the industry, and most importantly each other.

ANCW Vice President Report

Casey Matzke, TX | ANCW Vice President

As we kick off the new year, I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself. My name is Casey Matzke and I live in a little bitty town about 45 minutes outside of Austin I have been involved in Texas CattleWomen for close to the last 10 years, from the collegiate side, as an at-large member, as a new local starting, and currently serving as the Past State President One of my favorite programs that we do in Texas is the Grilling 101 I was fortunate enough to be able to intern at our Texas Beef Council and learned how to facilitate this program I would love to be able to incorporate this program into American National CattleWomen It Is a fun way to empower women as well as educating them about BEEF! Interested in seeing more about the Grilling 101?

Follow me on Facebook or Instagram I have two planned the first weekend in March!

Mattie and I will be hitting the road this Spring and Summer as we will be traveling to three different region meetings. Not only am I excited to meet each and every one of you, I am beyond thrilled that my daughter will have the opportunity to see amazing women coming together for a shared passion and voice. This organization wouldn’t be possible without you, your voice, your drive, your passion. As we jump into the new year, remember that No matter if you are a 4th time generational rancher, a brand-new rancher, an urban mom who just loves BEEF, or anywhere in between you and your voice matter! I am looking forward to some great meetings and a chance to meet each and every one of you!

The membership committee kicked off the year with their meeting right after Annual Convention We have a couple great ideas brewing from our committee

including a mentorship program, postcards that highlight ANCW and why you should join, as well as a potential membership drive. In addition, we are working on something for our collegiate members! Just a reminder, all collegiate members who have just graduated or will be graduating, do get a free year of membership If you are a collegiate, do be on the lookout for an email with more information coming your way!

Lastly, if there are any suggestions on ways to help grow our membership or ways we are getting it wrong, please feel free to reach out and let us know We can only grow by improving and we can only improve if we know what we are getting wrong

Without you all and your voices, this organization wouldn’t be possible, so keep up the amazing work and know the membership committee is looking forward to a great year!

ANCW Past President Report

Pam Griffin, AZ | Immediate Past President

As I rounded off my year, Minnesota was my final stop To be with the Minnesota Cattlewomen again and a keynote speaker for the Minnesota Cattlemen was an honor Minnesota Cattlewomen are a joy to be with and have a lot going on for our industry

Preparations for convention are extensive, and I’d like to thank the entire Executive Team we worked very well together Our Executive Director, Ashley Hughes, hit it out of the park and we deeply appreciate her Our tours on Sunday were wonderful and informative Monday and Tuesday, our meetings were productive and also informative with great speakers. For the remainder of the week, I completed my duties as President at convention, interviews, represented the seat for ANCW at the NCBA Executive Committee Meeting, Emerging Leaders Luncheon, as a guest speaking at the Opening General Session at CattleCon24 on behalf of our membership, and attending a variety of other functions We had a great time in Orlando!

It was my great pleasure and honor to pin Ruth Coffey, Oklahoma as your 2024 ANCW President You have an exceptional Officer Team this year and a fantastic Executive Committee You are in the best of hands

As Past President I do have defined duties as

described within our documents for ANCW:

Serve as chair of the Nominating Committee

Serve as a member of the Ways and Means Committee

Make arrangements for the Past President’s luncheon

Be responsible for procuring the gift from the Executive Committee to the outgoing President

Accept such other duties as assigned by the President

Shall be a liaison to all the Administrative Standing Committees

If you are a chair of an Administrative Standing Committee, please include me in your meetings, conference calls, or emails. Each committee needs to review their duties and responsibilities as a chair or member of an Administrative Standing Committee It helps towards smooth transitions

It was my honor to serve the membership this year As I said in my closing remarks, we collectively decide where we go together with our organization; you are all the best of the best, and you do make a difference every day! It was a true joy being welcomed to your states, homes, your operations, and your dinner tables These are memories I will cherish! I am forever thankful to each of you for allowing me to serve you!

ANCW Foundation

Kristy Lage, NE | ANCW Foundation President

The American National CattleWomen Foundation is moving into 2024 with a strong focus on building relationships with our communities and members. We hosted a lively gathering in Orlando, welcoming discussion on ways to increase the involvement in one of our most important purposes “Beef Education efforts to enhance the image, positive attributes and benefits of Beef ” On February 13th we held a meeting via conferencing The winners of our fundraising drawing are Joann Ferguson, Dallas Texas, 44 Farms Grilling Bundle, Diane Travis, Dallas Texas, 200lbs of Vitaferm Concept-Aid 5/S with Clarifly feed Gina Hudson, Belvidere Nebraska, a hand piece 1900 quilt and Jeff Witte, Las Cruces New Mexico, a signed pen and ink framed turkey picture by Gary Bargell We want to thank everyone who purchased tickets and the sponsors who donated the prizes in support of the foundation

The Foundation wants to give a special thanks of Gratitude to 1999 Past President Janice Connelly, for her generous gift! In speaking with Janice she said “it is something I have wanted to do for a long time, the American National CattleWomen is an important part of my life and I hope the funds will support the scholarship programs the foundation administers.”

The foundation continues to encourage CattleWomen to include the foundation in their estate planning and contribute memorial gifts in honor of loved ones The 2024 budget has been reviewed and we are happy that investments are doing better The note cards are still available for purchase on the website: www ancw org

The Legacy Scholarship application is due by May 1st The application is also on the website

The Foundation is once again sponsoring the ANCW President-Elect Nikki Weston to attend the NCBA YYC Tour We also sponsored the Cattle Con Agriculture Tour and the Emerging Leaders Luncheon in Orlando Both of these events are very well received and an important part of giving back to the ANCW membership and our young leaders

We would like to welcome new trustees, Jeannie Kiehn, Washington, Lucy Bowers, Florida and the ANCW Liaison, Vice President, Casey Matzke, Texas. Since the Foundation was established in 1992 it has

gifted more than $200,000 in support of its mission to enhance the BEEF industry through charitable, scientific and educational programs. This would of never been possible without the generosity and dedication of all of us, who share a common bond in their love for Beef Together we can continue to achieve these amazing accomplishments!

2024 American National CattleWomen Foundation Lana Slaten, President (AL) lbslaten@gmail com - 1st term ends 2025

Fita Witte, Vice President (NM) witterranch@yahoo com - 2nd term ends 2027

Kristy Lage, Treasurer (NE) cowlage@nebnet net - 2nd term ends 2027

Jeannie Kiehn, Secretary (WA) kiehnfam@gmail.com - term ends 2026

Diane Travis, Trustee (TX) diane@simbra.com - 1st term ends 2026

Lucy Bowers, Trustee (FL) lucybowers@semtribe.com - term ends 2026

Wanda Pinnow, Trustee (MT) cwpinnow@gmail com - 1st term ends 2025

Casey Matzke, ANCW Liaison (TX) caslmatz@gmail com - appointed - non voting

Mary Jo Rideout, Exec VP (WY) rideout@theriver com - appointed - non voting

ANCW Foundation

315 Bucktail Road Sutherland, Nebraska 69165 308-764-9946

ancwfoundation@gmail.co

WIRED PROGRAM

Becca Johnson, KS and Jennie Hodgen, IN | WIRED Directors

The directors of Women in Ranching - Education and Development (WIRED) are pleased to share the growth of the program. The WIRED committee has been expanded to include Barbara Jackson and Gwen Geis, who represent different regions of the country and bring both leadership and WIRED hosting experience to the existing team

In 2023, Cattlewomen hosted WIRED events in Nebraska, Nevada, and Oklahoma Two of these events were held in conjunction with Region Meetings and all were very successful In survey responses, all participants of the 2023 events said they would attend again

Events planned for 2024 include the two April events featured below, an event in southern California this fall, and an event in Columbus, Montana on June 7-8 Registration for the featured events in Ohio and Alabama is open now Registration for the Region V Meeting and WIRED in Montana will open March 15 Looking forward, Cattlewomen can expect to see an enhanced planning process that will be announced later this year. The planning toolkit update is scheduled for late summer. A proposal and approval process for 2025 events will occur in the fall. This new process will enable streamlined event planning that results in event promotion at CattleCon25 in San Antonio

The future is bright and the WIRED committee is ready to approach it hands-on! Visit ancw org/wired for more details

COLLEGIATE BEEF ADVOCATE PROGRAM

Katie Kixmiller (IN) and Ashley Evans (NV) | CBAP Directors

The Collegiate Beef Advocates were hard at work during this year's National Cattlemen's Beef Association convention in Orlando Florida. To start the week, the advocates attended the ANCW Ranch Tours Advocate, Chaylee Tonniges, was able to share the tour with members who were unable to make it by doing an Instagram takeove f ANCW! Sh brought the tour to life by shari from the different stops throug Monday of convention, our advo the ANCW meetings to give an update on their year so far Brittley and Chaylee were immersed in great conversation with cattlewomen from all over the united states to learn about their stories and see policy being moved among the ANCW leadership “It was truly inspiring to learn the paths of each of the cattlewomen and how they got to where they are today. Each of their stories showed their passion for the industry,” a Bowers said As the week contin were able to meet our program within the industry, and sit in on their knowledge of the industry CBAP we got to meet with were Greeley Hat Works When talkin discussed their mission of safe, their equipment They walked u passion to make equipment safe for the animals and

Greeley Hat Works has been a long-standing sponsor of CBAP and they took the time to teach Chaylee and Brittley about the art of hat shaping and custom designs We are eternally grateful for all of our sponsors who believe in advocating for the industry as well as shaping the future boots on the ground Th l d d he week by assisting and ng Leaders Luncheon that was n National CattleWomen. The college students engaging with industry professionals and learning how they got to where they are today Students were also able to ask questions and learn about the segments to work in “Helping conduct the emerging leaders luncheon was such a privilege! I love that we were able to create a networking opportunity for high school and collegiate students. These conversations are extremely valuable and e Brittley and Chaylee want to ou to all of the professionals vocates are excited for their ntinue to advocate for the beef ting advocates for next year ’ s in September and conclude in pplication can be found on efadvocates on Instagram and s are open now through June 1st and applicant requirements are male or female, ages 18-24, and enrolled in higher education

ANCW Education Committee

Debbie Torres, CA | Education Committee Chair

Orlando Education Committee Review

What a great meeting we had in Orlando. I would like to thank those who attended our committee meeting for the first time. Also, to thank, Kathy Tokach for taking our minutes. We reviewed our ongoing projects:

Book List – We have continued to expand the on-line book list Our references have been improved by changing the age groups into 4 categories: Toddler, Elementary, Tweens, and Young Adult We encourage members to check the list often and refer teachers to the use of the on-line list Back to Books Monthly Calendar continues Thank you Kady Porterfield and Pam Doiron, for the improvement of getting the monthly suggested reads on the web-site in a timely manner each month Beefman brochures that were being provided and produced by the CA Beef Council has issues in getting it reprinted We will keep you informed about how this project will proceed

Beef Readers – Authors as readers project is an ongoing project If your state or unit is considering to be an online reader, contact us for further discussion.

YouTube/DVD/Video Collection-This project is ongoing. An addition to this project is to have suggested DVD/Videos added to our list. First suggestions will be: Temple Grandin. In the works, the second addition is a DVD produced by our very own Kern County CattleWomen Assn, California. “Life On A Cattle Ranch: A Childs Perspective A Walt Rodman Award Winner, Excellence in Beef Promotion A discussion was held to have available as a “Link” to the actual DVD since so many schools now do not have DVD players available

Continued Committee Discussion-The discussion continued, the suggestion of expanding the availability of increased information for middle school through high school students by possibilities of YouTube channels and suggested even a Podcast With those suggestions made, the committee requested the Board of Directors a sum of $200 to do exploration of the possibility of a podcast format By

BOD voted and passed this request. This will be an ongoing project to continue to gather information.

Thank you Again- to the members who attended our committee meeting and making some great suggestions to move our committee forward.

In closing, next month is Women in History Check our book list for suggested reads

“True tribal tradition recognizers the importance of women Contrary to what you ’ ve probably read in history books, not all tribes were controlled by men ”

Wilma Mankiller

Mankiller: A Chief and Her People, 1993

Please join us in celebrating Owaissa Heimann on her 98th birthday on February 18! As a legacy member of New Mexico CowBelles, her dedication and passion for the beef industry is an integral part of the fabric that makes up our organization today She has also been active in ANCW for many years -NM Cowbelles

Collegiate CattleWomen and Cattlemen from across the country attended the 2024 ANCW Emerging Leaders Luncheon in Orlando, FL sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim! This unique event connected college students and recent college graduates with cattle industry leaders in an interactive group setting Emerging leaders engaged with mentors from a variety of professions across industry segments to discuss career opportunities and pathways to leadership over lunch. This networking event provided emerging leaders invaluable connections for professional success

CattleWomen Announce Award Recipients

Submitted by Evelyn Greene

Each year the American National CattleWomen select three CattleWomen that are nominated by their peers to be recognized as the ANCW Promoter of the Year, ANCW Educator of the Year, and Outstanding CattleWoman of the Year

Promoter of the Year - Amarie Bartel

Currently serving as the Oklahoma CattleWomen President-Elect, Amarie Bartel was named the ANCW Promoter of the Year She is a leader, enthusiastic, compassionate, and a true advocate for the beef industry While studying at Oklahoma State University, Amarie was influencial in establishing a pantry on campus that provides beef sticks and other nutritional foods to students in need What she loves most about the beef community, if you ask her, she will tell you that “it is a story worth being told, and I want to tell it ” A fifth generation rancher, Amarie makes her home in Yukon, OK with her husband Jason. They are welcoming their own little cattlewoman in July.

Outstanding Cattlewoman of the Year - Lana Slaten

The Outstanding CattleWoman of the Year, Lana Slaten, has traveled thousands of miles for beef education, beef promotion and has excelled in multiple leadership roles throughout her local, state, regional, and national cattlewomen’s associations She has delivered quality programming in support of the beef cattle industry in support of the mission for ANCW She is engaging, recognized with excellence, and definitely passionate about beef as a primary protein for the family Lana mentors the young members, builds up the senior members, and advises new officers and shows compassion for everyone without fail She has a way of envisioning the talents and encourages in a way that makes those around her want to be their very best self. She has been such a bright example in such a way that she has become a model for the women in her home state. She is not one to seek the spotlight, but yet her poise, sincerity, and willing spirit maker her a most cherished spokeswoman for all that hold an agriculture life dear.

Educator of the Year - Kathy Tokach

The ANCW Educator of the Year, Kathy Tokach, has been involved in many activities throughout her 18 years as a Cattlewoman You can find her busy on their Angus ranch The ranch they own and operate originally dates back to 1898 She is blessed with a beautiful family, her husband Richard, a son Ben and wife Natalie, and two daughters Rebecca Tokach Acheson and husband Alex, and Renae Tokach Gress and husband Tanner Their grandsons, Bentley, Briar and Gentry, Cooper, Emmett, Rhett, and Elliott If you want to visit the ranch, they would be happy to have you, just make sure you carry warm clothing because the Angus mecca of North Dakota, 25 miles southwest of Bismark can get pretty cold

Outside the beef community she is a registered nurse She helps out with their family beef cattle operation, Eightmile Cattle Co She has a loving and very supportive husband, Dr Terry Slaten and a wonderful son, Gus Slaten And I would be amiss If I did not mention her late sweet loving mom Ms Betty that raised such a lovely woman that she would be so very proud of today

CBB

Safety and Product Innovation Committee

Submitted by Gwen Geis, WY

The Safety and Product Innovation Committee met in Orlando Florida during the Cattle Industry Convention The committee heard from the contractors:

Drs. Mandy Carr and Jessica Lancaster gave an update on the NCBA FY‘24 funded Authorization Request (AR)

Tactics: Safety Research and Scientific Affairs, Product Quality Research and Technical Expertise, and answered questions.

Susan Backus provided an update on the Foundation for Meat and Poultry Research’s (FMPRE) FY‘24 funded AR – Post-Harvest Beef Safety Research, provided handouts for members, and answered questions.

JJ Jones provided an update on National Institute for Animal Agriculture’s (NIAA) FY‘24 funded AR Tactics: 2431 - II Tactic A: 13th Annual NIAA Antibiotics Symposium and answered questions

CBB International Marketing Committee

Submitted by Gwen Geis, WY

The United States Meat Export Federation (USMEF) is the only contractor for the International Marketing Committee USMEF works hard to promote US grain fed beef around the world and they have been very successful Per head, USMEF has been able to increase the value to more than $430 As we all know, beef is a luxury item in some parts of the world Some countries, such as countries in Africa and Egypt, rely on offals, such as liver, kidney, heart, tripe, etc

However, US beef is grain fed, which gives it the flavor that so many people enjoy After all, we do not sell just beef, we sell memories High quality and consistency are the main attributes of US beef compared to other beef in the world USMEF works with countries all over the world The top countries that provide the most in trade for beef are Korea, Japan, China/Hong Kong, Mexico, and Canada USMEF works with food industries and restaurants E-commerce is another popular way to sell US beef Now that the pandemic is past, the tourism industry is picking up again Another avenue to selling US beef is in Japan where Costco is successfully marketing our beef In Korea, there are home meal replacement kits (HMR) with US beef USMEF has created and innovated many ways to sell US beef to societies of different countries and cultures USMEF is concerned about the reduced beef production that is forecasted this year and the next But, there is still much optimism and momentum. Below is a typical annual report from Dan Hallstrom, CEO and President of USMEF. He also writes quarterly reports.

“Beef exports closed 2023 on an encouraging note as per-head value exceeded $430. December exports of U.S. beef totaled 108,497 mt, down 4% year-over-year but the largest since August 2023. Export value was also the highest since August and climbed 10% year-over-year to $860.8 million. 2023 beef exports totaled 1.29 million metric tons, down 12% from the 2022 record. While export value fell 15% to just under $10 billion, this was still the third highest annual value for beef exports.

Mexico’s demand for U S beef continued to strengthen in December, pushing 2023 exports to the largest volume since 2019 and export value to $1 19 billion, the second highest on record Beef exports to Central America and the Dominican Republic were record-large in 2023, while shipments also trended higher to Hong Kong, Africa, and Peru While December exports to leading market South Korea remained lower than a year ago in volume, export value ($220 6 million) was the highest in 18 months This helped push December export value per head slaughtered to $431 50, the highest since April For the year, per- head export value averaged $397 04 ”

NCBA Federal Lands and Property Rights Committee

Submitted by Wanda Pinnow, MT

The Federal Lands and Property Rights held a joint session during Cattle Con 2024. The Biden Admistration’s two main agencies are refusing to give Habit a definition When President Trump was in office a rule or definition for critical habitat was created by that administration When President Biden took office the definition was removed As to this day they have not created a new definition They are looking at the scope of things

The Congressional Rule Act Biden pulled it back and set it aside The next Congress can pull it back, make changes then submit it for approval If nothing is done then the Pre 2019 regulations will come back The commission wants to be able to create habitats for all species, regardless of old definitions With what they have let happen, it is helping the service from saying exactly what a wolf habitat really is With no rule in place they can release wolves about any place they want regardless of the correct habitat or not

There is always the problem with circuit courts delisting a species, then the district courts overturn the ruling It is very easy to have a species listed as endangered It is really hard to delist a species in a state versus delisting on the National level

We learned that there are more wild Burro’s using the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) With them being on BLM land, the burro’s are stripping the land of any forage Hay needs to be purchased to feed the Burro’s They are willing to pay more for hay than the Cattle Producer Therefore it throws the hay market out of wack With the National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) looking at all grazing permits and allotments, they are allowed to review all before current and future lease will be assigned.

Waters Of the United States ( WOTUS), Mary Thomas Hart, reported that during the summer of 2023, the Supreme Court overturned the Nexus Test Standard. The new standards state that the water needs to be relatively permanent. To be a national waters the stream must run all year. Then the question comes up on what is feeding the stream. Are the waters jurisdiction. A question which needs to be answered. We need to protect and fund EQIP, CSP, and other voluntary conservation programs that incentivize science based activities

We must keep the management of our own natural resources to ourselves

BLM solar plan In the western states, President Biden plans to use 4 4 million acres The states which this rule affects will be, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and Washington Arizona, California, Utah, and Nevada will give up 22 million acres for solar panel farms All of this will take place on public lands which the Biden administration deems suitable

NCBA Live Cattle Marketing Committee

Submitted by Mary Jo Rideout, WI

The committee had a full room to listen to an ongoing report on behalf of the Cattle Contracting Library Working Group by President-Elect Mark Eisele

Tanner Beymer and Kelsea, both NCBA directors of Government Affairs gave a DC Policy update A farm program has yet to be passed

The main point of the meeting was a panel discussion on market trends and risk management Two resolutions were proposed The Livestock Risk Protection Program Refinement, (referred to as LRPS), after discussion this resolution was passed Therefore let it be resolved, NCBA works with USDA for the ability to obtain an LRP contract once a purchase contract is obtained and the down payment has been paid

The second resolution called LRP Improvement had some minor changes after much discussion. A producer can buy a LRP policy on cattle owned and also sell the same coverage in the options market, which may result in subsidy capture. LRP’s are essentially a subsidy through the Federal Government. Several cattlemen spoke in favor of LPRS, and it is used widely but education is still needed.

NCBA Tax and Credit Committee

Submitted by Melinda Sarman, NV

Agendas, minutes from the NCBA Summer Business meeting, and proposed policy resolutions on Bank Lending Rates and Federal Student Aid were available for those attending.

The meeting was called to order by Tax and Credit Committee Chair, Dan Rorvig.

The meeting started with an update and overview of the Corporate Transparency Act, led by Jeff Magee, Vice Chair and Kent Bacus Staff Liaison Questions were answered

The next topic was: Basel III The End Game- New Capital Requirements for Financial Institutions This update and overview were led by Kent Bacus, Staff Liaison Questions were answered

The last topic was Preliminary Results of the NCBA Tax Survey The update and overview were led by Kent Bacus, Staff Liaison and Kelsea Kemp, Staff Liaison Questions were answered

The New Policy was T-AC-Resolution 1 Bank Lending Rates, submitted by Iowa Cattlemen’s Association Resolution passed with one minor change of lending finances institutions was added

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, NCBA opposes the use of greenhouse gas emissions to determine eligibility for bank leading or leading rates (lending finances institutions added)

The second new policy was T-AC-Resolution 2 Federal Student Aid, submitted by Iowa Cattlemen’s Association Resolution passed

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, NCBA shall advocate to bring back the exceptions of family farms and small businesses with fewer than 100 employees for the term “assets”

No other agenda items were discussed, the meeting was adjourned

Region I Update

Brenda Kocher, OH | Region I Director

On January 13, 2024 The Ohio CattleWomen held their Annual meeting at Polaris Hilton Hotel in conjunction with the Ohio Cattlemen’s meeting. ANCW Region 1 Director Brenda Kocher gave a recap summary being 2023 Region 1 Director, what she has done this past year, highlighting that Region 1 has increased 10 members this past year She is happy to announce all her committee representatives’ positions are full and ready to start 2024 She also announced that Ohio W I R E D Event will be held April 5-6 The ANCW Region 1 meeting will be on April 5 at 5pm -8pm at a Restaurant in Wooster, Ohio April 6 will be our WIRED event starting at 7:30am-5pm with breakout sessions to begin on the 6th at the ATI Beef Facility Some sessions include vaccine handling, BAQ certification, and chute safety

Dr Temple Grandin will be a keynote speaker during the event Ohio Beef Expo will be held from March 14 through March 17, 2024. The CattleWomen will have a booth selling items as their money maker for the year along with raffling off a Black Stone Grill. This year ’ s Ohio CattleWomen scholarship winner was Makayla (Feldner) Heil. Makayla is a third year veterinary medicine student from Caldwell, Ohio. She received the award during the Ohio Cattlemen’s scholarship awards ceremony

New Officers for Ohio CattleWomen were installed by Kathy Sautter with a breed of Cattle for each office recognized Angus: President-Brenda Kocher, Herford: Vice President- Brooke Gibbons, Longhorn: Treasurer- Linda Harr, Simmental: Secretary- Emily Zollinger

Brenda Kocher attended the ANCW industry tour in Orlando FL of three cattle ranches on Sunday; this was a terrific tour ANCW meetings were the following two days with interesting speakers and social networking with ladies from all over the USA I was installed for my second year as Region 1 Director What an honor to be able to work with this great group of ladies Wednesday and Friday I was able to go to NCBA meetings and receptions. I was able to work at our ANCW Booth at the Cattle Con Trade Show and help at our Emerging Leaders Luncheon, mentoring college students with leaders in the cattle industry.

Region II Update

Beth Barber Jones, TN | Region II Director

Top Left: Newly elected Alabama CattleWomen Officers with ANCW President Ruth Coffey and Region II Director, Beth Jones

Top Middle: Tennessee CattleWomen at their State Convention

Top Right: Florida CattleWomen promoting beef at the Florida State Fair

Right: ANCW President, Ruth Coffey, speaking to the Alabama CattleWomen at their annual business meeting

Region III Update

Debbie Chute, MN | Region III Director

y the last few months with annual meetings. I was able to attend both Minnesota and Missouri Cattle Industry Annual Conventions. I always look forward to spending time with fellow cattle producers, learning about their issues and struggles, and sharing about ours American National CattleWomen is a great source for support and knowledge

I attended ANCW 2024 Annual Meeting January 28 – 30 in Orlando, Florida Our time started with a fantastic tour on Sunday January 28th Thank you to the organizers and the tour stops Meetings started Monday morning and concluded Tuesday We heard updates from NCBA President Todd Wilkinson, DC Issues Update from Ethan Lane, Jamie Jerrels of Florida Farm Bureau, Ranch Raised Kids Presentation, and Florida Seminole Cattlewomen member Lucy Bowers shared about the Seminole Tribe and their cattle industry We had updates from ANCW committees and much fellowship.

Remember to put the following dates on your calendar - May 30 – June 1, 2024. Our ANCW Region III and VII Meeting will be held in St Joseph, Missouri. Missouri CattleWomen are hard at work planning a great meeting for us We will hear updates from ANCW, State Cattlewomen, and State Beef Councils Tours being planned include a winery and farm visit, Pony Express Museum and American Angus Association There will be time for fellowship and getting to know each other Registration will be available in March

At our region meetings, there will be an election of representatives to serve on ANCW committees including electing someone to serve as your ANCW Region III Director My term will be up as of our 2025 ANCW Annual Meeting If this is something that interests you, but you have questions, please contact me I would be very happy to visit with you Have a safe spring and good luck with calving Hope to see you in St. Joseph in May!

SPRING ISSUE

Region IV Update

Cheyenne Sparks, OK | Region IV Director

Hello CattleWomen! I am excited to report that Region IV CattleWomen have been active in promoting beef education and nutrition in all three of our state affiliates!

The Arkansas CattleWomen are educating youth on beef with nutrition presentations at schools The Oklahoma CattleWomen participated in the Women’s Care Expo at the Tulsa Expo Center in Tulsa, OK where they had the opportunity to engage with 3,000 consumers to help promote beef and its nutritional value The Texas CattleWomen continue to host Grilling 101 events providing unique beef experiences to CattleWomen and consumers

I hope that you will join us at our upcoming Region IV Meeting on May 3rd and 4th in Eureka Springs, AR Attendees will arrive at Osage Creek Lodge on Thursday night Friday there is guest speakers and a lavender farm tour before heading to Osage Creek Cultivation Center for a tour of their facilities to learn how they benefit local cattle. Saturday is all business with a presentation by ANCW President-Elect, Nikki Weston. Online registration is now open at ancw.org and is $50/ech. Bring a friend!

The Cattle Industry Convention is a great reunion for CattleWomen from coast to coast! This year in Orlando, FL we continued to see Region IV CattleWomen thrive on the national level with two of our own being installed to the 2024 ANCW Officer Team: ANCW President Ruth Coffey (OK) and ANCW Vice President Casey Matzke (TX)! I hope you will join me in congratulating them both on this amazing opportunity!

Region IV’s presence doesn’t end there Take a look at how Region IV CattleWomen are serving on the national level:

President - Ruth Coffey (OK)

Vice President - Casey L Matzke (TX)

Secretary - Connie Tabor (OK)

Region IV Director - Cheyenne Sparks (OK)

BOD Collegiate At Large - Brittley Bowers (TX)

ANCW Foundation Secretary- Diane Travis (TX)

Budget Committee Chair - Meg Stangl (OK)

WIRED Director - Becca Johnson (OK)

Golden Cowbelles - Doris Kochnee (TX)

Retail Beef Promotion - Debbie Gill (TX)

Legislation - Martha Shoemaker (TX)

Region IV Committee Representatives:

Membership - Pam Bothe (TX)

Budget - Kathy Ferguson (AR)

Public Relations - Emilee Haubner (TX)

Ways & Means - Debbie Prater Powers (OK)

State Presidents and BOD Members:

Betty Garner (AR)

Connie Tabor (OK)

Sharon Meiers (TX)

Have you been looking to get involved but not sure where to start? Contact one of your fellow Region IV CattleWomen listed above and ask questions! Keep in mind several of these ladies hold multiple positions as well! There’s a place for everyone in ANCW, Let’s find yours!

Join the Region IV CattleWomen Facebook group! Go to facebook.com/groups/regionivcattlewomen.

Region V Update

Katharine Davis, OR | Region V Director

CattleWomen in Region V have had a busy winter! When not bucking hay, checking heifers, preparing for drought conditions, feeding bottle calves, or warming cold calves on the pickup floor, we have promoted beef and told our beef stories to friends, strangers, and fellow shoppers at the grocery store We have worked from the grassroots to promote the beef industry during local and state cattlewomen events while encouraging agvocates of all ages We look forward to sharing the stories of what we have learned from the winter seasons ’ challenges and blessings

January 28th through February 2 found many representatives from Region V in Orlando, Florida for CattleCon 2024 The week kicked off with the ANCW tour through several Florida ranches in the area The eared cattle, orange groves, and blueberry operations we saw were amazing! The diversification these producers had incorporated into their operations was inspiring as they definitely did not have all of their eggs in one basket. We learned about their production of citrus and citrus products, including whole oranges, grapefruit, and juices, as well as youpick blueberries, purebred Brahman and cross bred Brangus cattle. We learned about citrus greening, and how it has not only devastated citrus production in Florida, but is one of the world's most serious diseases of citrus, affecting all cultivars and causing the systematic death of trees The farms and ranches we visited were operated by gracious, innovative, inspiring, and resilient families If you have not attended an ANCW tour, I encourage you to join us next year! It is a wonderful day of camaraderie and learning!

This year the Region V meeting will be held in Columbus, Montana, June 7-8 This gathering will provide an opportunity for learning, sharing, and growing as strong beef advocates Please join us in Montana for the regional meeting and get involved with your fellow cattlewomen! Our meetings truly are a time of cattlewomen friendship and development

See you all there if not before! Remember that our work is never done, and our future is in our young CattleWomen and Cattlemen.

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Region VI Update

Callie Martinez, CA | Region VI Director

As we look back at 2023, we all can see that American National CattleWomen definitely grew in numbers across the United States. We had ladies join after attending our region meeting, then also said yes when wanting to get involved by serving on a committee

While in Orlando at the American National CattleWomen Convention in our region breakout session, it was heavily discussed that we need to be training up women in committees or even positions of leadership This is a goal so that we have ladies coming into the committees or leadership positions in a more ready position to take action I will be sending out a questionnaire to our members to encourage their involvement It was so great to see brand new members at their first convention in Orlando

I would also like to see our collegiate membership grow throughout our region at the colleges even if this means getting the discussion going to start a Collegiate CattleWomen on the Campus. A goal for our region would be to also get these collegiate ladies to be in attendance starting at the regional level.

The Keynote Speaker John Dornbos, made some good point which apply across the board to any of us. When you get taken down, do you get back up and keep going? I think that this hits home with any type of member driven organization We need to stay strong and keep going forward If we quit going forward then other organization may be not in the same position as us will make their case heard over ours

He also told us that once you know who you are and who you represent, this will make you stronger all around A defining point is what makes you, you and what makes you awesome We all have skills and talents to contribute to the group Eventually someone is going to call upon you to show up and to lead Really think to yourself, is it time for me to take a chance, and maybe start by serving on a committee? It is so great to see the younger generation showing up and wanting to step into leadership. It truly was inspiring to see so many nominees from the floor to fill our Board of Directors.

The last point from John Dornbos was when he said, "Never loose that 12-year-old kid inside you. Be you, be awesome, and we will be making this world a better place."

There is not a more critical time like now to get involved, as our industry continues to get attacked We have to stay strong and keep up the fight in order to be around many more years

Any questions please reach out to Callie at callie borror@yahoo com

Region VII Update

Beckie Christensen, ND | Region VII Director

Hello from Region VII. Let me introduce myself…... I am Rebecca (Beckie) Christensen, and I was elected as the new Regional VII Director for ANCW at last summer ’ s meeting I reside outside of New England, North Dakota My husband and I as well as our son Brian farm and ranch; our farm has been in the family since 1914. We raise Angus cattle as well as crop farm durum, spring wheat, and canola.

This winter the North Dakota Cattlewomen have been busy promoting and educating their respective districts with many fun and educational acvities District I donated beef roasts and educational materials at the Waord City Chamber of Commerce Turkey Bingo that drew a crowd of over 500. In September they held the kindergarten annual farm field trip There were approximately 6-7 stations that included cuts of beef/where meat comes from, soil health/earthworms, branding/vaccinating/ear tagging, horse rides, horse drawn wagon rides, farm story time, and petting zoo/animal feeding. At noon, a 100% all Beef hot dog meal was served to the students, teachers, adult helpers, and staff putting on the event All students received a packet of educational materials including the “eartag” page, beef byproducts page, coloring book, crayons, and a beef pencil Checkoff dollars were used to pay for the beef meal for over 300. The learning station specifically used the beef’s Big 10 display and the hot dog wrappers said 100% beef and more They also hosted beef trivia night at the Stonehouse Brew Pub District IV was again the primary sponsor for the Dickinson Women’s Expo They served beef samples to the expo goers, passed out beef recipes and information, and engaged them in Beef trivia. The best part of the day, as described by the volunteers, was when a little girl threw away her sucker for a beef sample District V worked in cooperation with the Burleigh County Extension Service to put on several nutritional and educational workshops promoting beef and its importance on your diet. District VI did a Fall Chili Cookoff and promotion during their Santa Days District VII is busy planning the NDCW annual meeting to be held June 21 and 22 in Scklestad Lodge near Fort Ransom Another venture the NDCW are working on is to record information from present and past members for a celebratory 75th anniversary video. They will also be collaborating with the North Dakota Beef Commission to showcase May is Beef month with several events Registration for the virtual 5K Beef Strong run/walk is being held the month of March

PHOTO BY MARTIN R SMITH

Long X Arts Foundation put on a Cultural fair for the McKenzie County Community to showcase the different cultures within our community. ND Cattlewomen held a booth at the event, educating and advocating to the public on the beef industry We shared a booth with the McKenzie County Heritage Park and North Dakota Oil Museum serving up beef jerky and biscuits which represents what the settlers ate back in the day as they traveled across the American landscape. This showcased that even back in the day they understood the importance of beef.

The women of the South Dakota CattleWomen held several events throughout the winter They are excited to team up with Beef Logic Inc to help provide beef and classroom education for beef cooking in middle school, high school family and consumer science classes, and agriculture science classes

They are working on some projects for this coming summer We are getting into the beginning of calving season here, as I am sure so many of you are I hope that the weather improves, and I look forward to bringing more exciting news and events from our district in the next newsletter.

GOLDEN COWBELLES CORNER

Submitted

by

Gwen Geis, Wyoming CattleWomen

Wyoming Cow-Belles held its first organizational meeting in Lander Wyoming on June 6, 1940 Wyoming was the first state to have a statewide organization. Minutes from the first meeting:

On Thursday, June 6th 1940 Mrs Snodgrass of Casper called a meeting of the wives and women of the Stockgrowers Association together at a luncheon in Lander for the purpose of forming an organization of the women Mrs P J Quealy of Kemmerer was asked to preside and was duly elected to the office of president Mrs Thomas Hunter of Cheyenne was elected to the office of secretary

It was moved, seconded, and carried that a vote of thanks be given to Mrs Snodgrass and Mrs Cross for their work in calling the meeting together and planning the luncheon.

It was moved, seconded, and carried that all wives, daughters or mothers of members of the Stockgrowers Association were eligible to membership in the organization

It was decided on the suggestion of Mrs Snodgrass to call the organization “The Cow-Belles” A motion was made, seconded, and carried to have dues of fifty cents yearly for any expense that might occur

It was decided that women from adjoining states who were attending the association meetings could become honorary members of the Cow-Belle if they chose by paying dues It was moved, seconded, and carried that a vote of thanks be given to the ladies of Lander who had the meeting in their town a success. As there was no further business to come before the meeting it was adjourned. - Mrs Thomas Hunter, Sec

Belle of the Bawl

The object of this organization shall be to help develop the social wellbeing of the women in our organization and our state, and to be of assistance to the Wyoming Stockgrowers in its efforts to promote the welfare of the livestock business

On April 19, 1959, Wyoming Cow-Belles incorporated with the State of Wyoming with the officers being: Elizabeth M Brown, Weston, Wy; Inice Mill, Hatcreek, WY; Mary Patrick, Torrington, WY; Ardath Van DeBurg, Jackson, WY; and Arlene Watt, Moorcroft, WY

Wyoming is happy to say we have 26 active local organizations which represent most of the counties in the state Our presidents have been from all over the state, and many have served in offices of American National Cattlewomen over the years They were very active in the Beef Cook-Off and have had numerous Beef Ambassadors over the years To date the Wyoming organization has had 4 National presidents We look forward to continuing the legacy of the founding members of our organization.

JUNIOR CATTLEWOMAN SPOTLIGHT

Ainsley Martinez | California | 2 Years Old

Ainsley Martinez is the two and a half year old daughter of Callie and Joe Martinez of California. She enjoys going to the ranch when she visits her Papa and Grandma. Ainsley is also mom ’ s little helper in the kitchen. She likes looking at all of the cows.

Ainsley has been attending CattleWomen meetings since she was in her momma ’ s belly! She is a junior cattlewomen just with the American National CattleWomen. Ainsley attended her first national Summer Meeting two years ago in Reno.

Ainsley will be at summer meeting this summer in San Diego, because who does not want to go the cooler weather of California in the summer.

CATTLE BREED CROSSWORD

Across

5 Dark red to red-yellow in color and have a white color running from their face to their underline

6. A cross between large German cattle breeds and smaller cattle breeds indigenous to Switzerland

8 Resistant to harsh weather, is adaptable, undemanding, matures early compared to other breeds, and has a high carcass yield.

Down

1. White or off white in color and were developed in central France

2 German cattle breed that have a high rate of gain & feed efficiency & adapt well to different climates.

3. Dual-purpose breed that is resistant to drought, heat, and insects and are light red to dark red in color

4 Comes in red, roan and white and produces high-quality meat with excellent marbling and tenderness

7 French cattle breed whose meat has lower fat content with less calories and less saturated fat.