2023

South Dakota Directors Attend Federation Orientation (November 8, 2023)

Carl Sanders and Emily Peterson, directors on the South Dakota Beef Industry Council board, participated in an orientation event hosted by the Federation of State Beef Councils to learn about their role in the Beef Checkoff. New SBC directors from across the country came together in Denver, October 31-November 1, to learn about their roles and responsibilities as stewards of the Beef Checkoff. Attendees also learned about the Beef Act & Order, Checkoff history, fiduciary responsibility and Checkoff payment compliance. Staff from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, provided an overview of current and future Checkoff-funded programs. The event also served as a way for directors to network with one another, meet NCBA staff and learn about available Federation resources.    

SDBIC Board of Director and Vice President, Carl Sanders states, “The Federation’s New Director Orientation was a welcome opportunity to refresh my knowledge of national checkoff programs and connect with our state beef council colleagues from around the U.S.  I appreciate the work of the checkoff every day, but especially when I’m reminded of how efficiently and effectively our resources are used to promote beef.” 

Created in 1963, the Federation of State Beef Councils represents the 43 Qualified State Beef Councils, including the South Dakota Beef Industry Council, and is committed to its vision, which is to build beef demand by inspiring, unifying and supporting an effective and coordinated state and national Checkoff partnership. State beef councils voluntarily invest in the Federation to enhance the national Checkoff and leverage producer dollars through a coordinated partnership. Housed at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, the Federation is a grassroots organization run by producers across the country.   

For more information about how the South Dakota Beef Industry Council is driving the demand for beef, visit sdbeef.org  

Apply Today to Become Beef Spokesperson (November 3, 2023)

CENTENNIAL, Colo. (Nov. 1, 2023) – The Beef Checkoff-funded Trailblazers program is seeking applications for its next class of beef advocates. Trailblazers, developed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, takes advocacy to the next level by giving participants the tools and training they need to promote beef to new audiences while addressing and correcting myths.   “Over the past two years, the Trailblazers program has proven to be a dynamic and effective program for advocates seeking to develop their skillset, while building an inter-connected community of elite advocates from across the country,” said Chandler Mulvaney, director of grassroots advocacy and spokesperson development at NCBA. “If you are an advocate and seeking a chance to be empowered on your advocacy journey, apply today, and help safeguard the work of cattle farmers and ranchers.”   

The Trailblazers program is looking for new spokespeople to participate in a year-long hands-on program designed to train, equip, and empower beef advocates. Selected candidates receive training to become expert communicators, excel in media interviews and understand how to build confidence in beef related practices when talking to consumers.   Each year, 10 new Trailblazers are selected to create a tight-knit community that works together to find solutions to social and practical issues impacting the beef community. 

Throughout the year, Trailblazers receive advanced in-person and virtual training from subject matter experts, learning how to effectively engage on various social media platforms, interact with the media, and enhance public speaking skills. Upon completion of the program, Trailblazers serve as industry spokespeople and inform beef advocates at the local and state levels on advocacy, media, and spokesperson best practices.   “My favorite part of being a Trailblazer has been the networking and relationship building with people who are as passionate about the cattle and beef communities as I am,” said Kacy Atkinson of Wyoming. “Not only will you develop a supportive group of friends and cheerleaders you will find invaluable, but the program will also connect you to people within the community that will serve as mentors and resources, willing to help you meet the goals you have for yourself and push you to grow to become an even better advocate.”   

Applications will be accepted through December 8 and selected participants will be notified mid-January, upon completing the review process. Applicants must be 21 years of age, have completed their Masters of Beef Advocacy certification, and provide at least two references with their online application. 

To apply, visit the website and for more information, contact Chandler Mulvaney at [email protected]. ###

Building a Stronger State and National Partnership  (Ocotober 19, 2023)

Superheroes from across the country gathered in Denver, October 11-13, for the annual Partnerships in Action (PIA) conference. Coordinated by the Federation of State Beef Councils and funded by the Beef Checkoff, PIA brings state beef councils together to build a stronger state and national partnership. The theme of “Superheroes in Action” packed a powerful punch as attendees learned about national Beef Checkoff programs and discussed ways those efforts could be expanded in South Dakota.   

Topics discussed during the event highlighted how the “dynamic duo” of the Beef Checkoff and state beef councils work together to drive demand for beef. Attendees learned about program strategy, current consumer trends and preferences, and upcoming Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. promotions. More than 80 state staff from 32 state beef councils participated in the event, including Jodie Anderson from the South Dakota Beef Industry Council.    

“Connecting with other state beef councils and learning what national programs we can implement in our state is essential,” said Jodie Anderson, SDBIC Executive Director. “These partnerships help us effectively leverage Beef Checkoff funds and create programs that have the greatest impact to our producers.”   

The SDBIC is part of the Federation of State Beef Councils and voluntarily invests in the Federation to enhance the national Checkoff and leverage producer dollars through a coordinated partnership. The Federation was established in 1963 by grassroots producers as a more concerted and focused effort to conduct national beef research and promotion programs.   

For more information about how the SDBIC is driving the demand for beef, visit www.sdbeef.org    

Beef Is Back at the 2023 Sanford International  

Pierre, SD –BEEF is headed back to the 2023 Sanford International PGA Tournament of Champions for the sixth year as the South Dakota Beef Industry Council (SDBIC) and Beef Logic, Inc a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, headlines BEEF as the official protein of the event. This year’s tournament will take place in Sioux Falls, South Dakota September 11 – 17, 2023 at the Minnehaha Country Club with golf enthusiast from all over the world in attendance.    Beef will be highlighted as the premier protein of the tournament at “The Ranch" located in the 1st, 2nd, 17th, and 18th viewing area. This destination oasis will offer attendees an opportunity to sit back and relax as they learn about beef's story from pasture-to-plate while watching one of America's favorite past times. While at the "The Ranch" onlookers will have the chance to try the 2023 signature sandwich, More Cowbell. This sandwich is compiled of Smoked chopped brisket in between a glazed flyboy donut topped with a sweet and spicy raspberry chipotle BBQ sauce.  SDBIC President VeaBea Thomas explains the importance of highlighting BEEF at events such as the Sanford International, “The Sanford International is a great opportunity to talk Beef with consumers from around the Country, and share the Beef story whether that’s handing out sandwiches during the Pro-Am event and to Military and First Responders or at the Beef BBQ Contest of Champions. These events also give us the chance to educate individuals on the importance of a high-quality protein like BEEF in their diet on and off the course.”   South Dakota Beef will be working alongside Beef Logic, Fireplace Professional/BBQ Heaven and Dakota Butcher in serving prime rib sandwiches throughout the Pro-Am tournament on Wednesday and Thursday with the South Dakota Junior Beef Ambassadors joining in to serve sandwiches during the Pro-Am Tournament and in the military and first responders’ tent.  Back by popular demand, the Beef BBQ Contest of Champions will take place on Saturday, September 16, 2023 beginning after play at the Minnehaha Country Club Driving Range Area. Beef Logic, Inc Executive Director, Suzy Geppert thinks the Beef BBQ Contest of Champions should provide a lot of fun and excitement to the venue. “BBQ continues to be one of America’s favorite pastimes and we’ve invited back some of our state’s favorite BBQer’s for a night of fun as they share their favorite Championship style Beef Brisket. We will once again be holding the event at the driving range as we partner with the tournament, Fireplace Professionals and Dakota Butcher in making this one of the social highlights of the tournament.”   Are you interested in joining in on the fun? Stop by and place your vote as we will also be choosing the People’s Choice award! BEEF is where it’s at on Saturday, September 16, 2023 at the Minnehaha Country Club driving range starting after play. After the Beef BBQ Contest of Champions event, stick around for some great music by Jacko Deal.  Tournament Director, Davis Trosin is excited about BEEF’s partnership at this year’s event “It is a pleasure to partner with the South Dakota Beef Industry Council on this year’s Sanford International. SDBIC’s presence at our event has been omnipresent since year 1 and their support touches so many areas of our event. From The Ranch, which is a widely popular, open to the public viewing area which provides general spectators a great vantage point to watch the action on Hole #17. To serving our sponsors, military veterans and active service members delicious Beef sandwiches during tournament week. Lastly, the Beef BBQ Contest of Champions is an event that so many look forward to as they have the opportunity to taste and judge brisket from some titans of their craft in the state of South Dakota. We are grateful for our partnership and giving our spectators the opportunity to enjoy all that our SD Beef Farmers and Ranchers have to offer.”   As you spectate during the 2023 Sanford International Tournament of Champions, keep your eye out for our Youth Beef Caddies that will be assisting pro’s during the Pro-Am tournament on September 13-14, 2023.     The 2023 Youth Beef Caddies are:  Chord Blotsky – Winner, SD  Teagan Scheel – Alpena, SD  JD Thompson - Wessington Springs, SD  Weston Grace – Humbolt, SD    The South Dakota Beef Industry Council works on behalf of South Dakota beef producers through the $1 Beef Checkoff Program.  Beef Logic, Inc, a 501 c3 nonprofit, is a contractor to the South Dakota Beef Industry Council. They assist in the planning and implementation of large-scale events and activities.  For more information on the Beef Checkoff and statewide efforts follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or visit www.sdbeef.org and www.beefboard.org. 

South Dakota Beef Industry Council to Hold Annual Meeting September 8, 2023

PIERRE, SD - Directors and staff of the South Dakota Beef Industry Council (SDBIC) will gather at Drifters Conference Center in Ft. Pierre, South Dakota on Friday, September 8, 2023, for their Annual Board Meeting at 12:15 P.M CST.   This meeting provides a valuable opportunity for beef producers to network with their peers in understanding the Beef Checkoff. All beef producers are invited to attend.  Please RSVP to Jodie Anderson at [email protected] or call the SDBIC office at (605) 224-4722 if you plan to attend so that meal arrangements can be made. Visit www.sdbeef.org to learn more about the South Dakota Beef Industry Council and the state’s Beef Checkoff program or visit www.beefboard.org to learn more about national efforts.

Build Your Base Program Shines at Indoor Football League Championships

Pierre, SD – The Build Your Base sports nutrition program, that utilizes beef as its premier protein, helped fuel athletes at the 2023 Indoor Football League (IFL) National Championship Game held in Las Vegas, Nevada August 4-5, 2023. Build Your Base, the IFL’s official community partner, incorporated Game Time educational activities and events across its league throughout the season and its National Championship created the perfect opportunity to launch the new Build Your Base beef jerky! The recently launched Build Your Base jerky was showcased at the IFL Combine, reaching over 200 athletes from the National Football League and the Extreme Football League. Additionally, Build Your Base jerky was provided to both Bay Area Panthers and Sioux Falls Storm as they competed in the Championship Game. The Build Your Base team, Beef Logic Inc., and IFL cheerleaders and dancers worked alongside one another to present IFL fans with Build Your Base jerky and Game Time materials prior to the start of the Championship Game. Beef Logic Inc., the 501 c3 nonprofit that manages the program, is excited to have the product on board. Board President, Eric Sumption explains, “We are proud to add Build Your Base beef jerky to the program as it extends the educational material through a QR code that is placed directly on the product! This guides our athletes and consumers back to the Build Your Base website where they can learn about the sports nutrition program and all that it has to offer.” Build Your Base beef jerky is produced at Bad River Jerky, a facility out of Chamberlain, South Dakota. “Build Your Base will incorporate the product into all of its programs, which includes offering it to our schools and communities, not only for their athletes, but as a potential fundraiser, as well.” Executive Director, Suzy Geppert and Director of Nutrition, Holly Swee, had the opportunity to give a Build Your Base presentation to IFL owners and coaches about the program and how it works, as well as field questions. They shared information about the Build Your Base jerky and explained the 2024 outreach toolkit that will place material in the hands of the teams so they can distribute it throughout their communities as their official community outreach program. "Meaningful relationships with our communities are what makes the IFL thrive. Our goal is not to make appearances, our goal is to make an impact. Game Time has been the perfect platform for this. Spending quality time with the youth and families in our communities, teaching and inspiring healthy habits." said IFL Commissioner Todd Tryon, "The pros at Build Your Base and Beef Logic Inc. are who make this program shine. They bring innovative and fun ways to teach about the importance of good nutrition, which is such a critical lesson for kids today. With Build Your Base, I know that we have the best sports nutrition program on the planet and we're excited to be able to share it with our communities!" “We are extremely excited to be working with Build Your Base. They are the perfect partner as we continue to work toward giving back to the communities that have shown us so much support,” says Todd Tryon, Commissioner of the IFL. “Build Your Base is out here helping families learn ways to be healthy and strong. It’s a message that we love and are so happy to be a part of.” Through multiple media platforms, on-field logos, and banners Build Your Base had tremendous visibility throughout the weekend events. With two commercials showing on CBS Sports Network, the Build Your Base program had the potential of reaching over 55 million viewers. Additionally, Build Your Base sponsored Prime Rib for the IFL Night of Champions where awards are presented and Hall of Fame members were inducted. While it is important to recognize that Beef Logic Inc. and Build Your Base are grounded with deep South Dakota roots as both originated with South Dakota’s Beef Checkoff program, it is exciting that both are growing on a national level and have the ability to spread a positive nutrition message to millions of youth and their families. Beef Logic Inc. continues to act as contractor to the SD Beef Checkoff however, it also provides an opportunity to expand the program’s reach through both local and national sponsorship opportunities allowing for further support and growth. Beef Logic Inc., Executive Director believes in the mission. “This allows us to extend our checkoff dollars to their full potential while granting recognition to sponsors whether it is in a program community or part of the national outreach. It also allows Beef Logic to be an available partner and resource for multiple organizations to carry out their community, state, and national beef initiatives.  To jump on board as a program sponsor, contact Suzy Geppert at Beef Logic Inc. at [email protected]. Build Your Base jerky is now available to order by visiting BeefLogicInc.org and clicking on the store tab. For additional information, visit www.beeflogicinc.org  www.buildyourbase.org

Effling To Fill Role as Beef Logic Communications and Web Development Manager 

 PIERRE, SD – Beef Logic Inc. is pleased to announce Cagney Effling as their new Communications and Web Development Manager. Effling will work alongside Beef Logic staff to develop and create opportunities for beef through partnerships and collaborations that unite likeminded partners and stakeholders to increase awareness on the health benefits of beef and the farmers and ranchers that raise the product.   Effling, who recently served as Director of Programs and Communications for the SD Pork Producers Council, grew up near Highmore, SD on her family’s cattle operation and has been involved in the beef industry her entire life.  Effling attended Northeastern Oklahoma A&M Junior College where she completed her Associates Degree in Agriculture Sciences and competed on the livestock judging team. She began her communications career as an intern for the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s International Marketing Division and graduated from Kansas State University Cum Laude with a degree in Animal Science and Industry and a Business Minor. She developed her communication skills further as a member of the 2020 National Champion Livestock Judging Team at K-State and was selected as an All-American.    “We are excited to have Cagney join our team,” said Suzy Geppert, Executive Director, Beef Logic Inc. “Her passion for and experience in the industry will be a great asset as she understands the value of the product and how to communicate its benefits to the new generation of consumers”.   For more information about Beef Logic Inc. visit beeflogicinc.org or contact Suzy Geppert at [email protected].

Japan to visit South Dakota Beef Farms and Ranches  Pierre, SD – 

The South Dakota Beef Industry Council is excited to welcome Japanese Chef, Rika Yukimasa, to the United States for the American Beef Journey, July 23-27, 2023. Yukimasa hosts “Dining with the Chef”, popular NHK TV cooking program that airs in 150 countries, including the U.S., where it’s shown on PBS.  She has published dozens of bestselling cookbooks in Asia and spent several years in California where she graduated from U.C. Berkeley and gained understanding of the American plate.  Yukimasa will have the opportunity to tour several South Dakota beef farms and ranches, a livestock auction market, restaurants and other key sectors of the food industry that make beef one of South Dakota's leading economic drivers. The SDBIC will also host a Japanese Cuisine Meet and Greet event at Sturgis Brewing Company in Sturgis, SD on Tuesday, July 25, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. MT. Food Network Celebrity and Team Beef South Dakota Chef, Justin Warner, will join Yukimasa to demonstrate preparation techniques and serving options for various value cuts of beef utilized in Japan. To round out the night, a beef and beer pairing opportunity will occur with an open question and answer session following the demonstrations for event attendees. “We are excited to showcase our industry to Chef Yukimasa and promote beef in a way that will leave a lasting impression” states SDBIC Board of Director, Justin Tupper. “Events like this help us continue to sell our product and also helps consumers be confident in their purchasing decisions by experiencing first-hand the commitment of care that goes into raising a high-quality beef product!” If you’re interested in attending visit https://sdbeef.formstack.com/forms/american_beef_journey_meet_and_greet_registration to RSVP by July 21,2023! Beef Logic Inc. and United States Meat Export Federation (USMEF), contractors to South Dakota Beef Industry Council and the Beef Checkoff, will also be in attendance working alongside the SDBIC to introduce Chef Yukimasa to South Dakota beef farmers and ranchers who work hard to provide high-quality beef to consumers around the world. 

South Dakota Beef Industry Council to Gather in Pierre June 28 & 29, 2023

PIERRE, S.D. — Directors and staff of the South Dakota Beef Industry Council (SDBIC) will gather in Pierre June 28-29 for the Checkoff Academy and SDBIC Quarterly Board meeting. The Checkoff Academy, hosted by staff from the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, will kick off the meeting at 2:00 pm CDT on Wednesday, June 28 at Red Rossa conference center in Pierre.  This event will provide the SDBIC Board and guests with some history and an overview of current national beef checkoff programs.  This meeting will provide a valuable opportunity for beef producers to network with their peers and gain a deeper understanding of the beef checkoff. All beef producers are invited to attend. The SDBIC Quarterly Board meeting will follow on Thursday, June 29 at Drifters Conference Center in Ft. Pierre, SD. Committee meetings will begin at 7:30 am with the full board of directors meeting to follow at 10:30 am CST. Please RSVP to Jodie Anderson at [email protected] or call the SDBIC office if you plan to attend so that meal arrangements can be made.

RASDAK Beef Night Provides Opportunity

PIERRE, SD- Team Beef South Dakota, a program sponsored by the South Dakota Beef Industry Council (SDBIC), helped host a “Beef Night” for more than 300 RASDAK (Ride Across South Dakota) cyclists on June 8, 2023, in Sturgis, SD. RASDAK is a 6-day cycling event that covered 330 miles throughout the Black Hills. This year marked the event’s 10th anniversary and 10 years of sponsorship by the SDBIC Team Beef South Dakota. In addition to sponsoring a beef meal for RASDAK participants, the Beef Night gave staff and producers the opportunity to share the beef story with a diverse group of cyclists. “RASDAK is such a unique event, and it provides a great partnership,” shared Team Beef South Dakota Coordinator Merretta Anderson. “The cyclists are genuinely interested in learning more about the benefits of beef as well as hearing from producers and learning first-hand the trials and successes that are a part of the beef industry.” Anderson continued, “Anytime we can get out and share the pasture to plate story, is a great opportunity for our industry.” This year, the route passed through the scenic landscapes of the Black Hills, and riders also had the chance to view cattle along the course. Northern Black Hills beef producer Eric Jennings visited with cyclists at the event and encouraged riders to really take in their surroundings. “As they ride by our place, I really hope they notice the management that occurs and the contentedness of the cattle and take it all in,” noted Jennings. Over 30 of the riders donned Team Beef red jerseys indicating they were a member of Team Beef South Dakota. These members serve as beef advocates and share how they utilize beef in their training program. This year, Team Beef South Dakota has roughly 100 members including cyclists and runners of all levels. Follow along all year as Team Beef South Dakota members participate in events across the state sharing their beef story. Check out the 2023 Team Beef Schedule at www.sdbeef.org/programs-events/team-beef.

South Dakota Beef Welcomes 2023-2024 Jr. Beef Ambassadors

PIERRE, SD- The South Dakota Beef Industry Council (SDBIC) begins year four of the Junior Beef Ambassador program, a program giving area youth, ages 5 to 18, the opportunity to share their beef story. The 2023/2024 program has 42 Junior Beef Ambassadors from across South Dakota. They will be assisting with various SDBIC promotion events and sharing photos and videos highlighting their ranch and what they do as South Dakota beef farmers and ranchers for consumer promotions on social media. They will also be sharing delicious beef recipes for everyone to try! "Our youth are the future of the beef industry, and the South Dakota Junior Beef Ambassador program is giving these kids the platform to tell their beef story.” states Jr Beef Ambassador coordinator, Riley Zoss-Littau. “We are excited to have several 2022/2023 Jr Beef Ambassadors back, as well as many new ones joining this year!”   The 2023/2024 Junior Beef Ambassadors are: Kolt Johnson, Elliot Johnson, Jennings Pazour, Baylor Pazour, Hank Pazour, Cambree Holt, Jersey Lucas, Hadley Haneke, Taylor Harriman, Barrett Butzer, Elle Goehring, Reed Scott, Emmalee Scott, Emilia King, Bennett Gordan, Charles Barber, Zoey Barber, Josie Tish, Ladd Pazour, Ned Pazour, Scarlett Radke, Thorne Radke, Karlie Stiefvater, Kaylin Gjernes, Bailey Gjernes, Rett Blume, Jayna Blume, Katelyn Gebhart, Shannon Gebhart, Ashley Gebhart, Kaycee Scheel, Lexi Osterman, Koyle King, Cashley King, Fidelia Rasmussen, Brindle Hostler, Chord Blotsky, Ray Sanders, Kyle Sanders, Weston Grace, Mauer Jones and Mercedes Jones.   These beef ambassadors come to the SDBIC program from across the state of South Dakota. The 2023-2024 South Dakota Junior Beef Ambassador program will kick off their year with youth leadership training opportunities on June 5, 2023 at Dakota Butcher in Clark, South Dakota and June 8, 2023 at Wall Meats Processing in Wall, South Dakota. South Dakota Junior Beef Ambassadors had the opportunity to learn about the Jr. Beef Ambassador program as well as tour the locker facilities. Follow along all year long as we highlight and recognize these young leaders as they share their great beef stories throughout the year. The South Dakota Beef Industry Council works on behalf of South Dakota beef producers through the $1 Beef Checkoff program.   For more information on Beef Checkoff and statewide efforts visit www.sdbeef.org and www.MyBeefCheckoff.com or contact Jodie Anderson at [email protected]