“It’s A Good Deal!”

BY BILL LICKLEY Idaho Beef Council Chairman

My Dad and I stopped by Costco on our way home from one of his doctor appointments. While we made a quick circle in the store, we went by the meat case and perused the selection and the prices. Expecting this old rancher to be shocked by the $19.95/ pound for a rib steak, I was the one surprised with his response “It’s Still a Good Deal”! He always said beef should be expensive, like any high-end product with a good story to tell.

As I finish my 6 year term on the Idaho Beef Council and 2 year term as chairman, I reflect on the many hours of meetings I have participated in, miles traveled, and phone calls made and received. There were nervous speeches, tough decisions, and awkward conversations. And now I can say “It’s A Good Deal”. Leadership within the beef industry is a good deal. The folks I have had the opportunity to work with over my tenure are the best humans on the planet. T.K. Kuwahara, CEO of the Idaho Beef Council, works tirelessly to maximize the impact of the check-off to improve demand for beef in Idaho and the northwest. Shari Gulledge, Finance & Operations Director, keeps a watchful eye on the finances and has improved and documented processes and procedures to ensure compliance and continuity moving forward. The industry has been well served by these two individuals.

Lee Bradshaw will be moving on this year as well, and I want to express my appreciation for his wise council and sense of humor. After 30+ years of friendship, I am not surprised, but nevertheless grateful he was always a phone call away.

The Idaho Beef Council members Ira Brackett (cow/ calf), Steven Taylor (auction), Willie Bokma (dairy), J.W. Wood (feeder), Don Gaalswyk (diary), and Jodie Mink