Cattle Industry News
U.S./Japan BSE Technical Working Group Begins Negotiation
USDA Press Statement by Dr. Peter Fernandez, Chairman, US BSE Technical Working Group
This first meeting of the US/Japan BSE Technical Working Group was an important first step in restoring beef trade between our two countries. Over the past two days, we and our Japanese counterparts have engaged in a frank and open dialogue on our respective BSE surveillance and control systems.
We had the opportunity yesterday to visit a modern, well-run slaughter facility in Gunma prefecture. This was a valuable opportunity for our team to see first-hand the SRM removal and testing procedures that Japan has implemented. This visit was followed by a day and half of meetings in which we were able to openly discuss the areas of main importance, including the definition of BSE, SRMs, surveillance, feed bans and country risk categorization. We found many areas where we are in agreement, and some areas where further discussion is needed. This meeting has been very productive and provided a good start to this process. We look forward to continuing our discussions next month when we host the next meeting in the United States. -United States Department of Agriculture
NCBA Summer Conference set for August 9-13 in Denver
The cattle industry comes together twice a year to discuss current issues as a group, to work on programs and initiatives, and to set the course we should take with our various projects for the betterment of the cattle industry. The Cattle Industry Summer Conference, August 9-13 in Denver, is a joint meeting of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, Cattlemen's Beef Promotion and Research Board, the American National CattleWomen, Inc., and National Cattlemen's Foundation. Visit www.beefusa.org for more information.
- Cattlemen’s Spokesperson Network
Cattle-Fax Market Update
Fed cattle prices were mostly $3-4 lower last week with Southern values at $87 and Northern trade at mostly $89 live and $140-142 dressed. Overall volume was moderate. Feeder cattle and calf prices were $1-2 higher while commercial cow and bull prices were steady to $1 higher.
-To join Cattle-Fax, call (800) 825-7525
Missouri Cattlemen’s Association News
Make Reservations Now for First Annual Cattlemen’s Steak Fry
Join fellow cattlemen and women for a great evening of steak, camaraderie, and fun. The first annual Cattlemen’s Steak Fry, hosted by Past Presidents of the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, will be held June 15, 2004. Events start with a social at 4:00 p.m. and a ribeye steak dinner with all the fixings will be served at 6:30 p.m. Following dinner, two very special items will be offered at auction. Advance reservations are only $25 per person or $40 per couple, which includes dinner and all beverages. Tickets may be purchased at the door for only $30 per person or $50 per couple. To make reservations, please call Luke Burbank at (573) 499-9162 ext. 231. All cattlemen and women are invited to attend!
MCA Allied Industry Council to Host National Animal ID Briefing
The Missouri Cattlemen’s Association Allied Industry Council will host a briefing on the current status of National Animal Identification on Wednesday, June 16, 2004, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the Missouri Cattle Industry Headquarters in Columbia. The meeting will feature Jay Truitt, Executive Director of Legislative Affairs for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. All interested persons are encouraged to attend. For more information, please contact Brent Bryant at (888) 499-9162 or brent@mocattle.com
Mizzou Collegiate CattleWomen Complete Spring Service Projects
When Mizzou Collegiate CattleWomen (MCCW) began in 2001, a strong tradition of service was started. This spring, MCCW members continued that tradition by picking up trash at their Adopt-A-Highway spot, donating beef to the Ronald McDonald House, and scheduling a time to cook for residents of the Ronald McDonald House.
Spring also means a new slate of officers for 2004-2005:
Lesley Snodgrass, Steelville – President
Andrea Loyd, Defiance – Vice President
Traci Richter, Steelville – Secretary
Michelle Dowell, Paris - Treasurer
Cia Scott, Humansville – Reporter
Celia Brammer, Carrollton – Student Council Representative
The Mizzou Collegiate CattleWomen help out with several events throughout the year, both for MCA and local county cattlemen’s groups – thank you MCCW, for your help and service!
Membership & Recruiting Update
Only a few weeks ago, MCA Membership reached a milestone of 1000 new members. Two weeks later, new membership totals over 1040. Thank you to all MCA members who have recruited new members, including these top counties and individuals:
Top Ten Recruiters (New members recruited since 10/1/03):