jingle jangle Shot in the Arm
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make a motion that we rename our Summer Meeting to the “Booster Meeting.” If you were able to join us in Ruidoso you’ll understand my sentiment, if not let me explain. High schools have booster clubs to support their sports teams, kiddos get a booster shot to strengthen the efficacy of their vaccines, and CowBelles have a “Booster Meeting” to inspire our desire for BEEF promotion. This year’s shot in the arm came from two great Agvocates – our Man of Year and our Junior Beef Ambassador.
Lowell Catlett, immediate past Dean of NMSU’s College of Agriculture, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, was honored as New Mexico CowBelle’s 2015 Man of the Year. The award was presented by committee chair Barbara Wagner and Fita Witte, member of Mesilla Valley CowBelles, the nominating local. Prior to the presentation, Dr. Catlett gave a fascinating speech about why this is the best time in history to be in agriculture. Citing innovations in crop production, a hungry population that is growing in affluence and demands American agriculture products, especially
proteins, and a workforce that is shrinking in agricultural knowledge, Catlett posited that the world of agriculture was wide open. After all the negative press recently about animal agriculture it was refreshing to hear the positive side of our industry. The other breath of fresh air came from Rebekah McCarty, our Junior Beef Ambassador for 2015. She presented her speech titled “Agricultural Plight.” She won the State FFA contest with this speech and will be competing at the National FFA competition in Louisville, Kentucky in October. Hers was a compelling tale of the resiliency of farmers and ranchers and how they, more than anyone, have provided the foundation for the growth of this great country. After hearing her speak so continued on page 16
JULY 2015
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