Nevada Rancher December 2024 by Pacific Publishing Company

NOTICE OF COMING EVENTS Friday Feeder Sales Special Sale Dates:

Dec. 6th • Dec. 20th • Jan. 17th

155 sellers on Friday/Saturday totaling 5388 head. Market was hot on light cattle. Looked like a hole in 5/6 weight heifers compared to light heifers and 5/6 steers in my opinion. Exciting to see the market gaining momentum. I call it the Trump bump. Can’t even begin to imagine what would have happened to our market if Kamala would have won. For all those who say cattle are higher under a democrat president, let me tell you She wasn’t a democrat. She was a extreme globalist, marxist, communist loving socialist and She openly admitted to her plans of banning red meat consumption. The market would have fallen completely out of bed if Americans hadn’t stepped up and said enough is enough.

This election was truly about agriculture and our food supply. Without RFK, Tulsi, Elon and others coming across from the other side I don’t think Trump would have won. Thank you to the Amish for saving our country. They said enough is enough and so did millions of other Americans. I’m so excited to see what DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) does for our lives and our economy. Can you imagine the freedoms we will have and the money this country will save if all these bureaucracies get the axe? The government is supposed to serve the people but instead We the people are serving the government. These government employees wouldn’t last a day working for Jack Payne yet all of Us have to pay taxes to give them a job. Cut their government agency by 80% and make them get a real job.

Can you imagine if the BLM was out putting in water troughs, building reservoirs and putting in crested wheat seedings like they used to? I’m looking forward to ranching being simple again. All the program cattle, carbon credits, government programs etc etc have taken us backwards. Let’s make the cattle business profitable again and ranchers won’t have to be milking programs to try and survive. Get fuel prices down, increase beef demand by informing the consumers of its health benefits and slow down imports. We can run plenty of cattle in the US if they will let Us. We don’t need Brazilian beef. We are all waiting on the edge of our seats for the Secretary of Agriculture pick. Hope we get an America first patriotic like Thomas Massie or Brooke Miller and this whole Mandatory Electronic Animal ID thing goes away. If we get a Zippy Duvall We got a fight on our hands. I sure hope Trump recognizes what folks in agriculture did for him and that he rewards us with a less government S of A.

Enough of my political rant for today. Next feeder sale Friday, December 6th. Bred cow sale in conjunction with feeder sale. Hope to see you at #NevadaLivestockMarketing soon!

Read back issues digitally: issuu.com/winnemucca publishing7

The Nevada Rancher (ISSN 0047-9489) (USPS #003-257)

Published monthly at Winnemucca Publishing, 1022 S. Grass Valley Road, Winnemucca, NV 89445

Call us toll free at (866) 644-5011

Periodical Postage Paid at Winnemucca, 89445

President: Peter Bernhard

Publisher & Editor:

Ashley Buckingham

Staff Writer: Jennifer Whiteley

Contributors

Martin Paris, Norma Elliott, Heather Smith Thomas

Sales Representative:

Ashley Buckingham

Office Manager: Tracy Wadley

Graphic Design: Lauren Solinger, Kyler Klix

Production Coordinators: Adam Trumble, Annemarie Dickert

The Nevada Rancher does not assume responsibility for statements by advertisers nor products advertised within, and The Nevada Rancher does not assume responsibility for opinions expressed in articles submitted for publication. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject advertising or editorial material submitted for publication. Contents in The Nevada Rancher may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, including, but not limited to original contents and original composition of all ads (layout and artwork) without prior written permission. Subscription rate: $16.00 per year. All content copyrighted, December 2024.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Nevada Rancher, Winnemucca Publishing, 1022 S. Grass Valley Road, Winnemucca, NV 89445

Just a note!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

The past month has been hard on the hearts of our Nevada ranching community. With the loss of some amazing people. Our hearts are with their families.

This time of year with the shortened days, lack of sunlight, colder weather, harder work, some struggle with their mental health. Next month’s issue will include a few pointers on how to survive the cold and grief.

This edition we hope you enjoy!

We have some big news coming to the future of the Nevada Rancher, soon we will be ALL glossy pages. This improvement will be a season of growth we are excited to share with you.

I hope your family is healthy, your cattle are fed, and the dinner table is full of love.

Merry Christmas! We will see you next year.

Buckingham

Ashley

BobiRose and Truu. Ashley’s children. This is Truu’s first snow!

COURTESY ASHLEY BUCKINGHAM

Cover Photo By Ashley Buckingham. Chow time in Nevada.

Remembering Our Loved Ones

Wilma Duval Obituary

Wilma “Grace” Duval, wife, mother, sister, and friend passed away on August 23, 2024, after a long illness. She was born on October 21, 1940, in Delta, Colorado, and was the youngest of nine children. Following the loss of her mother at a young age, she moved to Elko with an older sister. She completed her education in Elko, graduating from Elko High School. It was in Elko that she met and married Don Duval, and together they moved to the ranch in Ruby Valley, where they spent the next 64 years. Grace was a dedicated rancher’s wife. She embraced the life of a rancher’s wife and was equally skilled in the barn where she helped with the feeding, doctoring and general care of calves, horses and lambs. She helped on the feed wagon, and ran the baler in the hayfield. Grace had a loving and caring heart. She cared deeply about people always seeking to make certain that they were happy and had their needs met. This included the cows, horses, sheep, dogs and, of course, her cats. She was also known as a wonderful cook and talented seamstress, which she happily shared with everyone, teaching, sharing, and doing as called upon. Her skills as a teacher and seamstress were passed on to many young women in Ruby Valley and surrounding areas. She was very proud of all those young women that she taught sewing skills to over the years.

Grace is survived by her husband of 64 years, Don Duval, her daughters Suzanne Haskins (Mike Aguirre), Carol Herl, and Dawn Duval (Dan Gustafson), as well as her 7 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Ruth Hurley of Nampa Idaho and sister in law Karen Davis of Elko.

Robert “Bob” Reed

Robert “Bob” or “papa” Reed was a beloved grandfather, father and husband during his incredible 82 years of life. He passed away surrounded by his loving family on October 13, 2024.

Bob had a long and full life. He was born on September 18, 1942 in Elko, Nevada to two loving parents John J and Velma L. Reed. He attended grade school in Lee, NV from 1-4 grade and a one room school known as Hilltop for 5-7 grade. He was especially proud to have been a part the Hilltop school, where they rode their horses to school and would pass time searching for lupine, one of his favorite flowers. He was among the first students at Hilltop, along with his sister Shirlee, Ronnie and Milton Smith, Linda Drown, Bob, Bill, Marilyn and Patty Kane, and Kit and Kay Lear. He went on to graduate from Elko High School in 1960 and attended Albion Christian College for a year before transferring to the University of Nevada Reno for 2 more years. It was there that he met his wife of 59 years, Loretta Johnson. They were married in 1965 in Lovelock, NV and went on to have 3 children with the oldest being Kristi, then Jake and lastly John. They raised their children on the Willow Creek Ranch where they learned the ways of ranching and hard work. His children grew up and produced 9 grandchildren who loved spending time with their “papa”. One of Bob’s greatest achievements besides his family and ranch, was his Ruby Mountain Spring Water company that he started in 1991 and is still in business today. He spent many years delivering water across Elko County and he became known as the water man. He once said he’d work up until he couldn’t climb

in the truck anymore and he kept his word, delivering through 80 years old. Bob grew up, ranched and passed away at his lifetime home on the Willow Creek Ranch, exactly where he wanted to be. He is now survived by his wife Loretta, daughter Kristi Tomera, sons Jake and John Reed, sister Shirlee Buzzetti, and 9 grandchildren Garrett Tomera, Mary Tomera, Sam Tomera, Jaxon Tomera, Sidney Reed, Macey Reed, George Reed, Julian Reed, Hugh Reed. We will remember Bob for his happy-go-lucky nature, goofy personality, and all his funny little jokes and sayings. We will miss Bob dearly, but are forever grateful for the time we had to spend with him. We will always feel his presence in our hearts.

Lost Bandidas and Amber Clark

Bringing quality clothes and gear to the whole family

Gardnerville, Nev.—From the Heart of Nevada to Your Hands – Welcome to Lost Bandidas!

At Lost Bandidas, we’re not just about gear—we’re about making Western life a little more personal, and a lot more affordable. Based on a working cattle ranch in Northwestern Nevada, every piece we offer is inspired by the cowboy way of life and created with care by someone who truly understands the lifestyle.

Hi, I’m Amber Clark, a fifth-generation rancher with a deep-rooted love for agriculture. I’ve been surrounded by cattle, horses, and hard work my entire life, from growing up in 4H and FFA to raising our own children with the same values. Alongside my husband, T.J. Clark, who’s a working cowboy, and our three kids — ages 17, 9, and 6 — we call a working cattle ranch in Northwestern Nevada our home. In 2017, I found myself

on a desolate ranch in the middle of Nevada, determined to create something of my own. Tired of chasing after the typical MLM

businesses and frustrated by the pricing limits of other clothing lines, I knew it was time to build something unique — something

that spoke to the hardworking, everyday cowboy and cowgirl. It wasn’t until T.J. encouraged me to take my lifelong love for drawing and turn it into something more that I found my true passion. And that’s when Lost Bandidas was born. I wanted a business that was

Debbie Bradford Special to the Nevada Rancher

Amber Clark, the heart and soul behind Lost Bandidas.

Something for everyone in the family. Braided quirts made by Amber.

Amber working alongside her husband TJ Clark.

Lost Bandidas gear is fashionable and functional!

All of the artwork found on Lost Bandidas gear is original and hand drawn by Amber.

AMBER CLARK

Cowboy Wage Affordable — where quality products didn’t come with inflated prices.

That’s how Lost Bandidas was born.

With a homemade screen-printing press, vinyl screens, and clotheslines strung throughout my house, I began creating custom apparel by hand. My Dad even came out to help me get started, helping me build a homemade screen-printing press. In the beginning I used vinyl to make my screens and would have clothes lines strung across my house with drying shirts!

Fast forward to today, and Lost Bandidas is a thriving business offering not just unique clothing, but also handcrafted leather goods, custom embroidery, laser-engraved items, and even custom resin stirrups — all proudly made in-house, with an upgraded heat press and sublimination machine.

Our Products Include:

Custom Apparel: Shirts, hats, and hoodies — all screen-printed or embroidered with designs that celebrate the cowboy spirit.

Handcrafted Braiding Gear: Unique braided items, made with a passion that goes back to 2010.

Durable Resin Stirrups:

Tested for durability, these stirrups can withstand up to 1000 PSI and keep your feet safe in even the toughest conditions. They’re built tough but designed with comfort in mind.

Customized Items: Embroidery, Lasering, Sublimation, Screen Printing and more. From custom leather goods to personalized gifts, if you can dream it, we can create it. Every product I make is centered around the idea of quality without compromise — and, of course,

affordable for the everyday cowboy.

As of 2024, we’ve expanded our line even further, and all of our products can be found on LostBandidas.com, as well as our

Why Choose Lost Bandidas?

Cowboy Wage Prices: We believe in offering the best products at prices that don’t break the bank.

Made in-house: Each item is crafted with care, from screen printing to resin stirrups, all made right here in Nevada.

Facebook and Instagram shops. Whether you’re looking for something to wear to the ranch or a custom gift for someone special, you’ll find it at Lost Bandidas.

Durable & Reliable: Our products are built to last, just like the hardworking hands that made them.

Join the Lost Bandidas family today.

Shop online at www.LostBandidas.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see what’s new and get

exclusive offers. You can even follow along with us on TikTok!

Come see us in person at the Red Bluff Bull and Gelding Sale in January, Winnemucca Ranch Hand Rodeo in March, Reno Snaffle Bit Futurity in September, and WSRRA Finals in November. We try to hit several smaller shows throughout the year as well, follow our social media pages to keep up to date on where we will be and when!

Lost Bandidas – Quality. Affordability. Hard Work. Every stitch, every design, made with pride.

The Clark kids, from top to bottom, daughter Dusty, middle son Taos, and youngest son Will.

If You’re Going to Cross Fresh Feed, You Better Have Fresh Horses

Anybody that has cowboy’d very long knows the feeling of riding a tired horse trailing a bunch of hungry cows that waddle into fresh feed. All of the sudden the cows go to grazing instead of walking, scattering out like spilt milk. You can’t hold them together, they have lost all respect for a person horseback, it’s like moving chairs one at a time. You get that sinking feeling like Davy Crockett at the Alamo. Nothing you can do! The harder you push the more they just spread out. You’re exhausted, your horse is exhausted and it feels like you are sinking in quicksand! If you just had a fresh horse you might have a ﬁghting chance to get where you are trying to go. As I write this article on the morning of election day I feel like the aforementioned cowboy just in a political arena. We’ve worked at holding political ground, but it’s been about like moving tired cows across fresh feed. No matter how hard we push we’ve

struggled to make any positive ground with grazing regulations or about anything related to our industry, we can’t seem to get any direction or traction until the election is over. There are a lot of things “cooking” within our industry, but not much is happening until the election gets over with. According to our policies, Nevada Cattlemen’s is politically neutral. We have a long-term strategy to be able to work across party lines for the good of our industry so I’m not just talking about candidates. It’s more about uncertainty that seems to be holding things back.

I don’t know how things are going to turn out but hopefully we all can feel like we are on fresh horses and moving in a positive direction when the election gets over!

Cheers

Hanes Holman

H2024 Year in Review

appy December!

Another year is coming to a close in what seems like the blink of an eye. Much like other years, 2024 has been filled with ups and downs along the way. Looking back at previous “year in reviews”, I have to say there’s a lot to be grateful for. I am happy to not be reporting on the impacts COVID has had on people and businesses, the brutal winter we had in early 2023, or a disastrous fire season. While we still faced unique challenges, it was nice of Mother Nature and the unexpected Black Swan events to take a bit of a break. Prices on most things remain high, but thankfully, a really strong cattle market throughout the year helped somewhat offset surging costs in other areas. I remain hopeful that cattle markets will continue to be strong as we enter into a new year.

NCA was engaged on a wide range of issues throughout the year, including animal disease traceability , lands bills, species management, the Farm Bill, grazing regulations, taxes, and more. In each case, we had a seat at the table, ensuring that our members’ voices were heard.

To highlight just a few- we

Cross L Ranch, Railroad Valley, Nevada

*3,314 deeded acres *Water Rights *Winter and Summer Range *339,266 acres of BLM to run cattle on *1500-1800 tons per year (to feed and sell) *Cattle and Equipment Included *several home for the help and new home for ranch manager $12,000,000

Segura & Fish Creek Ranch, Tonopah, Nevada

*1,075 acres *support 450-500 head of cattle & 2,500+ sheep *500,000 contiguous BLM land, AUMs for both cattle and sheep with over 1,186,411 acres with 250,725 operating acres *Two 120 acre pivots and a 60 acre pivot *diesel powered wells *50 acres gravity fed irrigation from a pond *1,000 tons of feed annually *sheep pens *home $8,000,000

Old Lynn Farm, Railroad Valley, Nevada

*113 acres water rights *Permit 27491 for 111.08 ac. ft. *Permit 38565 for 368.92 ac. ft. *Newer pivots *Small house *Great Starter Farm $479,000 Make offer!

Wildhorse Ranch, North Elko County, Nevada

*Owyhee River Watershed *4,500 contiguous acres with 3116 acre feet of water rights plus 908 supplemental water rights *native grasses *runs 600+ cow calf pairs *summer ground for 1,500-1,700 head of yearlings *private land $8,000,000

446 Lower Starr Valley Road, Starr Valley, Nevada

*Custom built 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathrooms *1600 sq. ft.shopw/16'doors*1040sqftpolebarnw/lean-to

*spacious barn *perfect for livestock *14.34 acres

*Amazing views of the East Humboldt Mountains

*Views of Meadow $875,000

2623 N Canyon Road, Lamoille, Nevada

*3.68 acres *Corner Lot *Fenced and cross fenced *perfectforlivestock/horses*naturalgrasses

*smaller corrals *old single wide *large shed *bunkhouse *Amazing views of the Majestic Ruby Mountains. $350,000

703 Clover Valley Road, Clover Valley (Wells), Nevada

*Bailey built home 2018 *4 bedroom 2 bathroom

*open concept *large kitchen *2,220 sq ft *1,000 sqftgarage(3car)*10acres*fencedforlivestock/ horses *Angel Creek runs through property *View of East Humboldt Mountains *secluded in Clover Valley $665,000

850 Diamond Foothill Road, Eureka, Nevada

*640 acres *Base of the Diamond Peak Mountain Range *Fenced and cross fenced *3 irrigation wells *2 pivots approx. 125 & 115 acres *BLM 3 sides *access 3 sides *24x40 shop *well, power, septic for future home site $1,575,000

2448 Morgan Road, Winnemucca, Nevada

continue to be heavily involved in discussions surrounding BLM’s Public Lands Rule. The BLM recently announced the creation of a federal advisory board that will guide the rule’s implementation. NCA is working hard to make sure we are well represented on the advisory board. We also laid out a scientifically sound argument regarding the benefits of grazing on Sage Grouse populations in response to newly proposed habitat management guidelines. NCA also played a major role in blocking an attempt from the United States Department of Agriculture to resume the importation of fresh beef from Paraguay, a country with a long history of foot-and-mouth disease.

We were well represented at several industry policy setting events, which always serve as a great opportunity for livestock producers to come together to learn new things and create paths forward regarding many of the issues facing our industry today. I want to thank all of our volunteer leaders and members who have spent countless hours throughout the year tirelessly

working to promote a dynamic and profitable Nevada beef industry.

As we look ahead to 2025, there is no lack of work to be done. The year will get off to a quick start with the beginning of the 83rd Session of Nevada’s State Legislature and a new Administration in Washington, D.C. No matter the make-up of the State Legislature or our representation in Washinton D.C., we look forward to defending our industry’s ability to maintain and create healthy rangelands, support our local communities, and feed America. Now more than ever it’s important that we protect, promote, and preserve our heritage and the ranching way of life. We encourage you to invite your friends, neighbors, and associates to join the Nevada Cattlemen’s Association and help shape the future of our industry. Please feel free to contact the NCA office for more information at 1-775-738-9214 or visit our web page at www. nevadacattlemen.org.

I hope everyone takes time to enjoy family and friends this holiday season, and I look forward to seeing you all in 2025! Martin Paris Executive Director, Nevada Cattlemen’s Association

Two Bitch

Spirits Ltd. Unveils Limited-Edition Holiday Bourbon Bonbons with Local Reno Chocolatier

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About Two Bitch Spirits Ltd.: Two Bitch Spirits Ltd. is a liquor company owned by the Luby family and is headquartered in Nevada. The brand is named for the family’s two rescue Doberman sisters, Miss Scarlett and Sage.

Ranch Christmas

By Heather Smith Thomas

Christmas is a special time because this is when we pause in our daily busy-ness to remember God’s greatest gift to us— in the birth of his Son, who showed us that we are all children of God and that we are all loved by our Father. We celebrate God’s gift by giving gifts to friends and loved ones. The Christmas season is also filled with many activities like singing carols, attending Christmas parties, church services, Christmas

Eve services, doing charitable acts and acknowledging or participating in many outreach programs that help others less fortunate than we are. Christmas has become very commercialized, like many other holidays and special events, but the “reason for the season” can always be found.

The hard part for most of us is finding time to do all the Christmas things we want to do—such as sending cards and letters to friends we haven’t been in touch with for a while, finding the perfect gifts for the special people in our lives, attending or helping with all the Christmas programs that people want us to attend or help with. As ranchers, it’s even harder to find the time to be involved in so many Christmas projects, activities and programs.

Ranch life is always busy, and we have a responsibility to the animals we care for. Often by Christmastime we are feeding hay to the cattle and maybe taking care of some weaned calves. The livestock’s needs often have to come ahead of ours, and sometimes we can’t make or predict our own schedules. This commitment to our livestock is a sacred trust that we try to honor, as faithful stewards of God’s creatures. We chose to own them and He entrusted them to our care, and it’s a

responsibility we take seriously. I have always appreciated a poem that my father, Don Ian Smith, wrote many years ago, entitled Ranch Christmas….

Tomorrow will be Christmas day And here I am out forking hay. Cows must be fed on Christmas Eve; A holy day brings no reprieve To one who feeds and cares for stock— A herd of cows or hungry flock.

My cows depend on me each day To give them care and bring them hay. And when I’m out here feeding stock It gives me time to think a lot.

Tonight, with wife and kids, I’ll go To church and with the folks we know We’ll sing, and hear with friends in town The way the Good Lord’s Son came down, To share with us the things of earth

And be as common as his birth.

I’m glad to hear the scriptures say Our Lord’s first bed was meadow hay. And when he woke I reckon how He smiled to see a friendly cow, And meet the men who had to keep A constant watch on flocks of sheep.

It brings Christ close on Christmas morn

To know the way that he was born, The Son of God who came to be With country people just like me.

Don Ian Smith

I’ve always liked that poem because it puts so many things into proper perspective — the fact that God chose to send His Son to earth in a way that common folks could relate to Him and understand His message, and that shepherds were among the first to welcome the Holy Child. It also touches on the fact that as caretakers of livestock, we have a God-given job to care for these animals to the best of our ability with no days off, no excuses. We honor God by being good stewards of these creatures He has put into our care. So as Christmas day approaches, we don’t neglect our “critters” even when we are busy with all the plans, projects, festivities and worship services. We rejoice in God’s wonderful Gift to us and the Love that came down to earth at Christmas, and honor that gift by our devotion to family, loved ones, neighbors and God’s own creatures that we are privileged to care for. We are expected to take good care of them, just as our Father takes care of us.

COLT STARTING

Lamoille, Nev.—Winter days are short but tend to drag on if you don’t have a purpose. They are monotonous. Wake up. Feed cows. Go to bed. Repeat. I don’t know about you, but my days tend to blur and the only reason I know what day it is because the boys are in school. Getting them up in the morning is the only reminder I have. Getting our colts going in the winter breaks up the drudgery of winter until calving season starts. We get the weanlings halter broke and picking up their feet at weaning and kick them out till the following winter. School begins with a refresher course on ground manners. Then they get saddled and sat on a few times as long yearlings, then turned out again until the fall of their twoyear-old year. Fall and winter between two and three is when the real education begins. This is when they learn how to be cowponies. They learn how to turn left, right, stop and back up, as well as how to move out. It starts in the round pen, then if that goes well, to the arena, and finally outside. By calving season, they will be ready to ride through pairs and by the time they are four, they will be fully on the payroll.

Jennifer Whiteley

The Nevada Rancher Magazine

Saddle horses swarm the hay wagon at feeding time.

PHOTOS: JENNIFER WHITELEY

The broke horses ignore the snow during their well-deserved winter break.

Travis Whiteley puts the first ride on a colt in Lamoille.

A colt cools off after being worked.

Travis Whiteley warms a colt up in the snow covered round pen.

LEFT: Winston Churchill said, “No hour of life is wasted that is spent in the saddle.” It seems our busiest time of the year is spring through fall, so winter time is the time to get colts going. RIGHT: Travis Whiteley takes a colt on a ride through pairs in Lamoille.

Travis Whiteley leads his colt to the gate in Lamoille.

EARLY ORDER

PIVOT DRIVETRAIN/ELECTRICAL

PIVOT SPRINKLERS

Mountain Home

Winnemucca

Grande View (208)

Smith Valley (775)

Weiser

Nampa (208) 482

Parma (208) 722-5121

SPRINKLERS AND ACCESSORIES

A recent economic analysis of the national Beef Checkoff program found that each dollar invested in its demand-driving activities for the most recent five-year period (2019–2023) positively impacted domestic beef demand and U.S. beef exports, creating a total financial benefit of $13.41 for the producers and importers who pay into the program.

This spring, the Beef Checkoff commissioned an independent economic analysis to thoroughly assess the effectiveness and additional financial benefits produced by the program’s demand-driving activities. Conducted by Dr. Harry M. Kaiser of Cornell University, this study’s objectives were to measure:

■ Whether national Beef Checkoff demand-driving activities increased demand for beef products (domestically and abroad)

■ The combined benefits of those activities in terms of their incremental financial impact to beef producers and importers

■ The indirect benefits of national Beef Checkoff demand-driving activities to the broader macroeconomy “We’re extremely pleased with the results of this latest study,” said Cheryl DeVuyst of Morrison, Oklahoma, chair of the Beef Checkoff Evaluation Committee and current secretary-treasurer of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB). “The Beef Checkoff’s primary goal is to increase beef demand here in the U.S. and worldwide. The statistics uncovered by this study tell us that we’re achieving that goal and providing producers and importers with an excellent return on their national Checkoff investments.”

BEEF CHECKOFF’S RETURN-ON-INVESTMENT (ROI):

In addition to calculating a ROI of $13.41, the ROI analysis enabled the study to simulate market conditions for beef demand in the absence of national Beef Checkoff investments. For the most recent five-year period, 20192023, had there not been any investments in national Beef Checkoff demand-driving activities:

■ Total domestic beef demand would have been 2.4 billion pounds (8.5%) lower per year than actual results.

■ The steer price would have been 7.8% lower per year than actual results.

■ U.S. export beef demand would have been 372 million pounds (11.5%) lower than actual results in the seven major importing countries included in the study.

BEEF

CHECKOFF’S BROADER ECONOMIC IMPACT:

The study also evaluated the national Beef Checkoff’s direct effect on the beef industry (i.e. producers and importers that pay into the program) and its indirect effects on the broader U.S. economy. To quantify the total revenue impact of the national Beef Checkoff on the beef industry sector, the study utilized the beef demand (8.5%) and U.S. beef export (11.5%) percentages derived from the ROI market simulation analysis. Applying these percentages indicated that the national Beef Checkoff added an incremental $3.3 billion to the beef industry in 2023. The direct effect of the national Beef Checkoff adding an incremental $3.3 billion to the beef industry sector had

positive indirect effects on the broader U.S. economy, including increases in:

■ U.S. employment by almost 47,000 people

■ U.S. employment income by $2 billion

■ Total value added to the U.S. economy of $4.1 billion

■ U.S. GDP by nearly $9.5 billion

Furthermore, the national Beef Checkoff contributed to increased tax revenue at the federal, state, and local levels, amounting to a grand total of $743 million in 2023, distributed as follows:

■ $34 million in county tax revenue

■ $205 million in state tax revenue

■ $504 million in federal tax revenue

“While we’re pleased Beef Checkoff programs are having a positive impact, we know there’s always room for improvement,” DeVuyst said. “The CBB is dedicated to making the best possible decisions on behalf of beef producers and importers. As we head into the remainder of FY24, we’ll take what we’ve learned from this study and continue moving the needle forward.”

All commodity boards conduct an independent evaluation of the effectiveness of their programs every five years, as outlined by the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) guidelines for commodity research and promotion programs. To view the complete study, executive summary or to get more information about the Beef Checkoff and its programs – promotion, research, foreign marketing, industry information, consumer information and producer communications – visit DrivingDemandForBeef.com.

*This study only pertains to the funds collected for the national Beef Checkoff program. It does not asses the impacts of Beef Checkoff program dollars invested by qualified State Beef Councils for state-level efforts.

2024 Western States Ranch Rodeo Association Finals

The 2024 WSRRA National Finals took place from Oct. 31 to Nov. 2, at the Winnemucca Events Complex in Winnemucca, Nevada. The event drew over 200 contestants from sixteen western states and Canada, showcasing the strength and spirit of ranch rodeo across the region. Heartfelt thanks go to all supporters of the WSRRA, as well as to the champions of this year’s exciting finals.

The 2024 Season in Review

This year, the WSRRA sanctioned more than 50 Open Ranch Rodeos, 26 Women’s Ranch Rodeos, several Women’s Steer Stopping events, and more than 80 Ranch Bronc Riding competitions. Based on participation numbers, the top 17 Women’s Steer Stoppers and the top 15 Ranch Bronc Riders were invited to the Finals, where they competed for a variety of awards, including prestigious Gist buckles, Yeti coolers, BEX Sunglasses, Twisted X boots, Outlaw Saddles and Silver spurs, and many

more generous prizes.

Our Sponsors and Supporters

The WSRRA could not operate without the generous contributions of our sponsors. This year, we were proud to be supported by Platinum sponsors Winnemucca Convention and Visitors Authority, Yeti, Winners Inn and Casino and Winnemucca Inn. Our

Gold Sponsors include 8 Seconds Whisky and Rodeo News Life, and we thank our National Sponsors such as Twisted X, Big Bend Trailers, and Vetericyn for their ongoing commitment to the success of ranch rodeo.

Additionally, we acknowledge our Event Sponsors, including WSR Insurance, Desert Trails Vet Clinic, Desert Disposal, Reverse

FP Cattle Co., Goemmer Ranches, Ricky Bobby Ropes, The Ranch Veterinary Clinic, MT Livestock Auction, Faith Hill Construction. Thank you to our corporate sponsors Gist Silversmiths, Ranch Life Coffee, American Ag Credit, Buckaroo Traditions Gathering, Nevada Gold Mines, Cinch, to our Chute Sponsors, Merck, Boot Barn and Design Daily. We also

would like to thank these sponsors Fay Ranches, Les Schwab Tires, C.B Brown True Value, Pro Earth Animal, BEX Sunglasses, Jim Davis, HGH EMS, Kimes Ranch, Jim Dandy Productions, Integra, Ultra Cruz, The Griddle, Integra Resources, Timmy Lyn DeLong- DoTerra, Nevada Rancher, Working Ranch, and Great Basin Sun. This event would not have been

possible without their support.

Special

Events at the Finals

The Jr/Sr Division Jackpot, sponsored by The Ranch Veterinary Clinic, returned for its sixth year, with seven teams competing in team branding, sort and rope tie-down, trailer loading/doctoring, and team roping. The Old Timer Scramble, a new event sponsored by Faith Hill Construction, saw four teams of cowboys over 50 competing in a series of ranch tasks, showcasing the skill and strength of seasoned cowboys.

A highlight of this year’s competition was the Junior Ranch Bronc Riding Jackpot, sponsored by Tri State Rodeo Company. These young riders demonstrated exceptional grit, with champions including Pee Wee Ranch Bronc Champion Chet Glock, Jr. Pony Champion Talon Walker, and Senior Ranch Bronc Champion Terrell TwoHeart. JC Harmon, a key figure behind these junior riders, shared his belief in mentoring

We are experts in State of Nevada Water Rights. We provide a wide range of water right and resource development services that can be customized to meet your needs.

Our team works directly with you to develop the best solution for your farm, ranch, business or home.

By Naomi Loomis and Katie Nuffer

Women’s Team Champions JC Livestock: Members are Katie McFarland, Candida Eldridge, Brynn Lehman and Monel Bilant.

MICHAEL MAGILL PHOTOGRAPHY

and shaping the next generation of rodeo athletes.

The WSRRA Cowboy Crisis Fund

In 2024, the WSRRA Cowboy Crisis recipient was Will DeLong. Will, a fifth-generation rancher from Humboldt County, Nevada, is currently recovering from an injury sustained while protecting his family’s ranch. Will, a longtime participant in WSRRA events, was honored during the Finals, with a live auction raising funds for his recovery. Donations are still being accepted through the WSRRA Foundation and can be made on our website.

The 2024 WSRRA Finals

The finals began on Thursday, October 31, with the Open Team Long Go, Women’s Team Long Go, and Junior/Senior Teams all competing in Team Branding, Team Roping, and Trailer Loading/Doctoring events. As evening fell, the First Performance was held, which included the Old Timers Scramble, Women’s Steer Stopping, and Junior Ranch Bronc Riding. The evening concluded with a Halloween kids costume arena walk-through.

Friday, Nov. 1 saw LongGo performances in events such as Sort and Rope TieDown and Trailer Loading/

Doctoring, followed by Round One of Ranch Bronc Riding and Women’s Steer Stopping along with announcing our 2024 WSRRA Producer of the Year, Sandy Kiel who produces the Sean Miller Memorial Ranch Rodeo in Lovelock, Nevada..

The night concluded with the WSRRA Year-End and Long Go Awards Party at The Winners at Winners. Saturday, Nov. 2 began with Cowboy Church, followed by the Family Branding Jackpot event.

The Short-Go Performance saw the top Open and Women’s teams compete, as well as the final rounds of Ranch Bronc Riding and

Women’s Steer Stopping.

The evening concluded with the presentation of the 2024 Nelo Mori Ranch Heritage of Ranching Award to Tom and Sue Quint from Colorado and the announcement of the WSRRA Champions.

2024 WSRRA CHAMPIONS

Here are the 2024 WSRRA Champions:

■ Open Team Champions: Parke Enterprises

Members: Dirk Jim, Trey McFarlane, Jared Parke, Sam Saunders

■ Reserve Open Team Champions: The Gamblers

Members: Christian Stremler, Zalin Arritola, Junior Harney, Noah Williams

■ Top Hand Cowboy: Jared Parke

■ 2024 WSRRA Finals

Open Top Horse: Casey Brunson

■ Women’s Team Champions: JC Livestock

Members: Brynn Lehman, Monel Bilant, Candida Eldridge, Katie McFarland

■ Reserve Women’s Team Champions: TriState Members: Tayler Teichert, Samantha O’Leary, Jessi Parker, Ashley Gallagher

■ 2024 WSRRA Finals

Top Hand Cowgirl: Katie McFarlane

■ 2024 WSRRA Finals

Women’s Top Horse: Brooke Jackson

■ Jr/Sr Jackpot Team

Champions: Bar A Ranch

Members: Alan Malotte, Brody Kelly, Maliki Malotte, Nathan Kelly, Jr

■ Jr/Sr Jackpot Reserve

Champions: Carlee’s Team

Members: Carlee’s Mackenzie, Stetson Mackenzie, Sam Mackenzie and Chance Kretchmer

■ JR/SR Top Hand: Maliki Malotte

2024 WSRRA Old Timer

Scramble Sponsored by Faith Hill Construction

■ Champions: Tri-State Guys

Members: Ira Walker, Casey Brunson, Pook Eiguren, Dirk Jim

■ Reserve Champions: Kings River Old Timers

Members: TJ Thompson, Frank Bengoa, Rob Nuffer, Norbert Gibson

WSRRA Women’s Steer

Stopping sponsored by Reverse FP Cattle Co

■ 2024 Champion WSRRA Women’s Steer Stopper: Haley Pennington

■ 2024 Reserve Champion

WSRRA Women’s Steer Stopper: Bailey Berrett

■ 2024 WSRRA Women’s Steer Stopper Average Winners

1. Haley Pennington

2. Bailey Berrett 3. Brynn Lehman

WSRRA Ranch Bronc

Riding sponsored by 8 Seconds Whisky

■ 2024 WSRRA World Champion Ranch Bronc Rider: Tegan Nevarez

■ Reserve Champion

WSRRA Ranch Bronc Rider: Taylor Merrill

■ 2024 WSRRA Ranch

Bronc Average Winners:

1. Charg Hebb

2. Tegan Nevarez

3. Taylor Merrill

4. Cinch Hebb

■ 2024 WSRRA Rookie

Ranch Bronc Rider of the YEAR: Brad Cessna

■ WSRRA Pickup Men: TeJay Fenster, Cooper DeWitt, Matt Morrison

■ Stock Contractor of the Finals: Barnhart Rodeo

■ Ranch Bronc of the Finals: Sloth, owned by Barnhart Rodeo

LOOKING FORWARD TO 2025

The 2024 WSRRA Finals was a spectacular event, thanks to the hard work of the contestants, staff, volunteers, and sponsors. We congratulate all of the finalists, winners, and participants for their outstanding performances, and we look forward to another exciting year in 2025!

For more information and to see the full results, please visit our website: www.wsrra. org. We hope to see you at a 2025 WSRRA Ranch Rodeo event!

Open Team Champions: Parke Enterprises: Members are Sam Saunders, Trey McFarlane, Dirk Jim and Jared Parke.

Christmas Gift Guide SHOPPING SMALL IS THE BEST GIFT OF ALL!

Winnemucca, Nev.—

Shopping small businesses is more than just buying things from your friends or neighbors. When you spend money in your community, it stays in your community. It supports little league teams, youth organizations, and schools.

Small businesses are run by people, not boards or corporations. The care and customer service just hits different. When you shop with a small business, you make a connection with a real person. You aren’t just a sale; you are directly supporting a family. Here are a few small businesses that are worth some support this holiday

season!

T and T Custom Country of Orvada, Nevada specializes in handmade horsehair mecates, get down ropes, hat bands, you name it. If you can dream it, there is a very good chance Tina Rodriguez can create it. Tina is the great-granddaughter of Frankie Dougal, making her a 5th generation mecate maker. Tina says she is a

“wife and mother of 2 little cowboys. I love making mecates, taking photos, following God, and living my life the best I can. My husband helps me with my crafts: wood signs, woodworking, welding/metal art, and much, much more really. He is very good at making my visions and thoughts come to life.” You can find Tina’s unique twist on a mainstay of the western life on her Facebook page. Just search T and T Custom Country!

Branded N Silver—”Brands live on forever, so brand yourself in turquoise n silver!” says owner and creator Marisa Julian. Located in Fallon, Nevada, Marisa is a handy

cowgirl that also shows reined cow horse in her free time. She takes custom orders and also has ready gorgeous turquoise and silver jewelry available on her website: brandednsilver.

com You can find her work on Facebook and Instagram as well.

Boyles T Arrow Ranch Creations Truly has something for everyone. Owner Paula Boyles was born and raised in Elko County. If your ranch needs custom hats, sweatshirts, or coats, she can embroider your ranch brand on them. She can put your business logo on bathmats, door mats, dishtowels, you name it.

Paula is your gal for embroidery and sublimination.

You really need to check out her door mats! You can find Paula on Facebook under Boyles T Arrow Ranch Creations.

The Dusty Sage is a fun boutique specializing in apparel “for the homesteading, y’allternative, sports mamas and their barefoot feral babes” based in Humboldt County. Owned by Jesse Bell, The Dusty Sage offers a wide range of seasonal apparel that is cute as can be! From Trump Election gear, Halloween pumpkins, and now Christmas cheer, Jessie can outfit your family for those Holiday pictures or fun shirts to wear to school. She even has Reindeer Food for Christmas Eve! She also

Jennifer Whiteley

The Nevada Rancher Magazine

Branded N Silver. The prettiest turquoise and silver jewelry in Nevada!

Boyles T Arrow Ranch Creations. Home goods at their finest. Check out Paula’s dish towels, blankets, bathmats, doormats, etc.!

The Dusty Sage. Fun boutique specializing in apparel “for the homesteading, y’allternative, sports mamas and their barefoot feral babes”

MARISA JULIAN

PAULA BOYLES

JESSE BELL

takes custom orders to dress out your crew in ranch swag! Made to order items do take 12-15 business days to ship though. You can find The Dusty Sage on Facebook or on Jesse’s website thedustysage. com.

Priscilla Folkerts is a jack of all trades when it comes to western

arts, but her passion is fine art. She lives near Twin Falls, Idaho and is drawing inspiration from the western lifestyle. She enjoys “illustrating the west” in her art. She sells originals and prints of her artwork as well as notecards and hooded sweatshirts as well as some logo work. You can

and leather goods for working and weekend

find her work on both Facebook and Instagram under Western Roan. Her work can be found in person at shows like the Western States Ranch Rodeo Finals in Winnemucca and the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko.

Ken and Debbie Wynn are a husband-and-wife duo who

have cowboyed together all over Nevada. Now semi-retired from full time cowboy jobs, they spend more time on their leather work and silver working crafts. Ken, a talented leather worker, builds saddles and using cowboy gear, knowing what is beautiful as well as functional that is built to last.

Debbie is a talented silversmith, creating beautiful jewelry for both you and your horse! Debbie can be contacted through her Facebook page Debbie Rickey Wynn. Their Christmas books are closed, but they may have some readymade items still in stock!

USDA and Reinvestment Fund invest nearly $6M to increase equitable access to healthy foods across US

Submitted

U.S. Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small has announced USDA is partnering with Reinvestment Fund to invest nearly $6 million to improve access to healthy foods in underserved communities across the country.

The investments are being made through the Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) Planning Grant Program, which provides grants to organizations for healthy food retail or food retail supply chain projects in early-stage planning and predevelopment phases.

“No matter where you live in our country, you should be able to get affordable, fresh, and healthy food close to home,” Deputy Secretary Torres Small said. “Through the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is working with farmers and ranchers, food retailers, and other stakeholders to strengthen the local and regional food systems we all count on. Reinvestment Fund has been a key partner to USDA in these efforts and today’s investments will ensure more communities get the nutritious food we all deserve.”

This announcement is part of USDAs comprehensive set of efforts, bolstered by funding made available through the American Rescue Plan Act, to create more and better markets

that benefit both producers and American consumers.

HFFI is designed to support new and expanded markets for a diversity of growers while helping people across the nation access affordable, healthy foods.

This announcement includes investments that will support planning activities for 45 projects to develop or expand food retail and food retail supply chain business models.

FOR EXAMPLE:

■ In Arizona, the Orchard Community Learning Center will use a nearly $124,000 investment to begin planning and pre-development activities to open a neighborhood food retailer that serves communities in south Phoenix with limited access to healthy foods. The food retailer will be SNAP-eligible, with fresh produce sourced from local farmers. It will also have a two-acre on-site farm.

■ In Georgia, Patchwork City Farms will use a $150,000 investment to expand its current farming operation into a 5,000 square-foot health and wellness hub in Atlanta, a first of its kind for the city. It will include a commercial kitchen, food retail space, a post-harvest processing and storage facility, and a gathering space for healthy food programming.

■ In Michigan, the North Flint Reinvestment Corp. will

use a $150,000 investment to develop the North Flint Food Market, a grassroots, resident-driven initiative. The market will be a fresh food retail store that will provide access to healthy food, create good jobs and revitalize the underserved area of North Flint.

■ In Pennsylvania, the Keystone Development Center will use a $150,000 investment to expand membership and community engagement for Aliquippa Food Co-op, a community-owned grocery store. The funding will help the center continue to provide the co-op with education and organizing support, which it has provided for the last two years.

Projects announced will increase access to healthy food for people living in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New York, Nevada, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin and Washington, D.C.

BACKGROUND

Many low-income communities lack adequate, affordable access to healthy food. HFFI provides grants and loans to entities that offer healthy foods

in communities that are underserved by grocery stores and other food retailers.

The program increases access to healthy foods, provides new market opportunities for farmers and ranchers, stabilizes small and independent retailers, and creates good-paying jobs and economic opportunity in low-income communities.

Through HFFI, USDA partners with Reinvestment Fund to bring healthy food options to underserved rural, urban and Tribal communities.

Reinvestment Fund serves as the National Fund Manager for USDA. It raises capital; provides financial and technical assistance to regional, state and local partnerships; and helps fund projects to improve access to fresh, healthy foods in underserved areas.

In August 2023, Reinvestment Fund expanded America’s Healthy Food Financing Initiative to include the new HFFI Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Program.

In June 2024, the Reinvestment Fund expanded the Healthy Food Financing Initiative to include the Food Access and Retail Expansion (FARE) Fund.

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve

the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas.

Visit the Rural Data Gateway to learn how and where these investments are impacting rural America. To subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit the GovDelivery Subscriber Page.

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. Under the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate-smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www. usda.gov.

Wild Roan. Fine art prints, note cards, and clothing.

Ken and Debbie Wynn. Beautiful and functional silver

cowboys and cowgirls!

PRISCILLA FOLKERTS

DEBBIE WYNN

The Cowboy Pastor’s Wife

Home, Home On The Ranch

When I was a young mom, my husband and I moved into a rough looking little house on eighty acres. The sink was propped up on boards, the walls were sheetrock without tape and bedding on them.

The flooring was plywood, that had been stained by the former owner’s pets, spilled dinners, and who knows what else. There was a small front porch and nothing but roughly built stairs off the back of the house. The plumbing, basic, rough and replicated something just shy of camping. I think you’re getting the point...it was wasn’t fancy y’all. But it was what we could afford for a couple of kids just starting out, with a toddler and one on the way.

We did a clean up immediately, washed walls and windows, did the much needed tape and bedding to the sheetrock and put a fresh coat of paint through out the interior. It felt like a brand new house and we were thrilled.

But as time went on, I began to grow discontent with the little house. I wanted the progress to move along faster .....but it did not. I had a one year old crawling on the rough plywood floors and new flooring wasn’t in the budget.

The little house that I told everyone about, that I leaped with excitement the moment God brought it into our lives, was now a house that drove me crazy. I couldn’t help but notice all it’s flaws and I was sure to tell my husband about them, when he came home from work each evening. I groaned about no central heat and air. I found myself wanting to light a match and start over, I didn’t really think that but it sounded like the dramatic effect I needed at this point in the story.

Have you ever been there? Something you use to thank God for, something that gave you such excitement has now become an area of complaining? That’s what happened to me and has happened to many other women who have moved into imperfect houses. But it’s not just our homes that we snarl are noses at but we

manage to find flaws in many things. For example, our jobs, our spouse, our kids, our friends. We complain about our paychecks, the weather, the guy going too slow in front of us, and waiting for the response from a text message we sent two days ago.

UUUGGGHH! That’s the worse! Let’s face it, it’s easier to pick out every stinkin’ thing wrong instead of finding something good. It’s easier to pick out something wrong, than to pick the plank out of our own eye. And finally it’s easier to find something wrong, than to do something about it. Instead, I can go around the guy who’s too slow or I can say, “why am I in such a big hurry anyways?”. I can get to work on the house, grab a mop bucket and a vacuum for starters. Thanking God at this moment would be a good thing, many people don’t even have a home.

I know that sounds like...eat your food, there are starving children in Africa. I never knew what to do with that one as a child but I did want to mail them meatloaf because I was happy to share. Around this time I also met a much older women at church. Her name was Jeanie Tipton, she was our pastor’s wife. At this

point in my life, I had no idea I would also be a pastor’s wife. Jeanie taught a ladies class every Tuesday morning. She had her Bible and tons of print offs to pass out (this was before cell phones and sending links). She was rich in Biblical knowledge but also practical tips to help us women along in life. We talked about everything from colicing babies to how to stencil our floors and walls.

Jeanie also cared how we presented ourselves, including getting dressed fully every morning, making the bed and having a well planned out day. OH Jeanie, I feel like I’m failing you lately. I need to step up my game. She was the one who told us to greet our husbands at the door with a kiss, some of you just rolled your eyes. Even then, a few headstrong women laughed loud at the suggestion. She wasn’t offended by it though, she explained the reasons 1. You Love Them

2. You Respect What They Do For A Living 3.You appreciated Their Hard Work

That same gratitude went both ways. I’d hear the rattling of the trailer coming down the dirt road, wait for the sound of a squeaky trailer gate to swing open. By

time the horses were backing out of that trailer, I was scurrying down with a jar of ice cold tea. Can I just say, his face said it all. I wasn’t forced to do this and I understand this isn’t a popular opinion to serve your husband this way. But it is how we should serve one another. When you start doing this for him with the right attitude, you will get this in return. But if you’re doing it with the wrong motives you will get the wrong motives back.

Jeanie also talked about Jesus and we dove into numerous studies. But the thing that stands out the most was the care she had for the home. She loved home, she loved her home...which was lovely by the way but she loved our homes too. She would tell us of her days as a young bride and how they had very little to their name. She made use of what she had, got creative, scoured flea markets, learned to cook meals on a dime, and made the best home she could. I couldn’t wait to get home after Tuesday’s study, to practice what I learned on my family. Clean it well, fill the air with the most intoxicating smell of fresh baked bread, which I did every day. I noticed things outside that would look lovely in a vase, such as

wildflowers or dry stalks of wheat for Fall. In the tack room, I’d find old stirrups to stack on top of books, or a bucket to hold towels in the bathroom. Our house began to change and so did my attitude. Our first house taught me to be thankful, find new ways to be creative and helped me to do whatever I could to make it a place my family longed to be. Funny what happens when we get to work. I often rearranged furniture and it suddenly felt like a new room. I’d clean while listening to Aretha and my two little boys would have fun helping me. I made it a point to wash, dry, and put away laundry. Yes! All three of them because you know the clean clothes will end up on the floor and double your work.

We double our work when we care more about how our homes looks to others, than they do to our own families. We also double our work when we care more about what the culture says about marriage, than what God’s Word says about it in Ephesians 5. If you are a working mama or not, what you do in the home, for your spouse, for your children, all comes down to pleasing God. What pleases Him is not in a “title” but found in the titles of His Word.

“for His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. Through these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world on account of lust.” 2 Pet. 1:3-4

We can all learn an important lesson here, to watch diligently against nitpicking. We can focus on the good, watch for sin or discontentment in our own lives, and decide to do something to change the things we can. I don’t know about you but I always need the reminder.

Thank you for reading, The Cowboy Pastor’s Wife

POTATOES CHANTILLY

Lamoille, Nev.—Sometimes simple is best. Your favorite old sweater, worn in jeans that fit just right, or comfy slippers. The things that make you feel good and soothe your soul. They warm you up from the outside and make you feel all cozy inside. Kind of like sitting next to the woodstove on a chilly evening.

I hope this holiday season you have plenty of time to spend with family and friends. As you reflect back on 2024,

your trials and tribulations are few and your joys are many. I hope 2025 brings you many great things! This recipe is a family favorite. I am not sure if it is my grandma Ada Rose’s or her sister Dee’s so I am going to give credit to both. It is a great accompaniment to an elaborate holiday meal, but simple enough for every day. It is comfort food at its finest and brings back memories of family meals eaten together around the table. I hope your family has a merry holiday season and loves this dish as much as I do! Merry Christmas from the Wild Whiteleys!

POTATOES CHANTILLY

■ 4 Medium Potatoes

■ 3 tablespoons Butter

■ ½ cup Heavy Whipping Cream

■ ½ cup Cheddar Cheese

■ Salt and Pepper to taste (listen to your heart!)

■ Parsley

Peel (if desired) and cut potatoes like French fries and place in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour cream over potatoes and dot with butter. Sprinkle with cheese and seasonings. Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.

Jennifer Whiteley

The Nevada Rancher Magazine

COURTESY

Jennifer Whiteley and her family.

New Extension livestock specialist drives livestock

Tracy Shane

By Emma Lande Nevada Today

University of Nevada, Reno Extension has appointed Tracy Shane as Extension livestock specialist, a role in which she will support Nevada’s livestock ranchers by providing information on the latest livestock science and management practices to help boost their productivity and financial success.

Shane’s appointment comes at a crucial time, as Nevada’s cattle industry – one of the state’s largest agricultural sectors – faces a moderate decline in production due to natural and economic factors. From 2017 to 2022, beef cow numbers decreased by about 8% and cat tle ranches declined by roughly 15%, though in dustry sales grew by 26%, according to a 2022 U.S. Department of Agricul ture report.

POTENTIAL PARTNERSHIPS

She plans to collaborate with researchers from the University’s College of Ag riculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources and its Experiment Station unit, along with state livestock officials, ranchers and

other regional institutions to develop research and outreach programs that strengthen animal health and management practices as ranchers face challenges such as extreme weather, wildfire impacts and limited feed. She also aims to partner with agencies such as the Bureau of Land Management to promote sustainable grazing practices, and with granting agencies to secure funding for research into critical areas, including biosecurity and disease management.

“We’re thrilled to have Tracy on board to strengthen and sustain

such as beef cattle, sheep and range management, and served as a faculty advisor for 14 years.

takes place.

DECADES OF

Prior to her academic roles, she worked in rangeland consulting with Resource Concepts Inc., where she provided expertise in grazing management and helped resolve grazing permit disputes in Nevada and Idaho. She also initiated targeted grazing treatments on rangelands managed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service. Through workshops, publications, and direct consultation, Extension specialists translate complex scientific findings into accessible, ac

industry and promote sustainable practices that benefit both our ranchers and the community.”

AFFILIATIONS AND INDUSTRIAL RECOGNITION

Shane is a Federal Aviation Administration commercial drone pilot, Certified Professional in Rangeland Management and is a past president of the Nevada CattleWomen. She is also a member of the Society for Range Management and the International Association of Landscape Ecologists. Recognized for her work, she was named Western Nevada Cattle Woman of the Year in 2017, was

eople who have never met you holler “Happy Holidays”, And even the old postman is festive in his grumpy ways, The desert starts to look like a life sized snow glob, Even if it all melts off in an hour or so, Christmas songs are playing at every single turn, And all the schools put on a play that took weeks to learn,

There’s Santa, and Wisemen, and reindeer, and lambs, And every church has a rendition of that stable in Bethlehem, Cookies and thrimming trees and houses of ginger bread, Breaking ice, and feed wagons, hauling Junior in a sled, Frozen toes ,and water troughs, and icicle mustaches, Decorations, lighted houses, and frosted window glasses. Carolers and tire chains and doubled up wildrags, Wrapping paper, Christmas parties and hand made gift tags, Poinsettias, rosy cheeks, and home from college kids, Simple sweet and rustic, Cowboy Country Christmas.