Caledonia Argus

Cattlemenís new focus is on producer issues

Posted: 5/20/03

The Houston County Cattlemenís Association has a new emphasis on producer issues, and is looking for members who are interested in expanding their knowledge of the industry.

Carol Abrahamzon, president of the Houston County Cattlemen, said the group has recently begun to offer ìround-ups,î which are similar to the dairy round tables that have been offered in the county for dairy producers. Every other month, the group has meetings on issues that focus on the nuts and bolts of beef production. Topics will be chosen relative to the time of year and could include calving, crops, rotational grazing, weed control, and pasture. Speakers will be called in to offer their expertise on the topics to be discussed.

The Cattlemen still plan on working to promote beef, especially during May beef month. The Cattlemen are having a beef promotion at Quillinís on May 22 where members will be grilling burgers and giving out beef gift certificates. The Cattlemen own a large grill and will grill burgers, steaks, or other types of beef for a small fee for special events throughout the summer.

On June 14, members will prepare beef sausage at the Wes Fort farm for the Dairy Breakfast on the Farm.

ìOur dairy producers are beef producers, too,î noted Abrahamzon.

For the last few years, the Cattlemen have sponsored a chili cook-off at the Houston County Fair. This year, members hope to generate interest with a ìBuild a Better Burgerî contest featuring local celebrities.

This is Abrahamzonís first year as president of the Houston County Cattlemen. In her ìrealî job, she is project manager for the National Beef Ambassador Program. She has an office in Denver, but works mainly from her home.

The Beef Ambassador Program consists of contests in two age divisions: 12-15 year olds and 16-19 year olds. The students write a 5-8 minute speech on beef, and deliver their speeches before a panel of judges. Those who win at the state level receive $1,000 cash and a chance to compete at nationals in Omaha. The top five national winners then travel the country promoting beef.

The Minnesota ambassador contest will take place in Canby July 15 at the Midwest Summer Beef Tour.

Abrahamzon is enjoying her new position, which offers her the opportunity to travel all over the country and meet young people who are involved in the beef industry.

ì(The young people) are just fantastic,î said Abrahamzon. ìThey are just fantastic kids. They have to be top notch. They are brilliant and articulate.î It is also interesting to note the cultural differences between north and south, said Abrahamzon, and to learn about cattle breeds that are raised in other parts of the country.

Top of Page