Ricketts Proclaims May As Beef Month In Nebraska

      Nebraska Gov Pete Ricketts on Monday proclaimed May as Beef Month in the state.

Ricketts said “Nebraska farmers and ranchers take great pride in producing high-quality beef to feed our state, nation, and world” – and doing it in an environmentally safe way.

Ricketts also reminded everyone that “beef is part of a nutritious, healthy diet, and when consumers eat beef, they support the industry and encourage growth in the Good Life.”

      The governor was joined at a signing ceremony at the Capitol by state Ag Director Steve Wellman, Nebraska Cattlemen’s Association President Brenda Masek, and Nebraska Beef Council Chairman George Cooksley.

      Cooksley praised the Good Life Great Steaks Beef Passport Program, which is similar to the state Tourism Passport. Participants get stamps in a passport by dining at participating restaurants that offer premium Nebraska Beef. 

      The stamps allow the diners to qualify for prize drawings. Cooksley said last year’s rollout of the Beef Council program was a big success on all levels.

The Beef Passport Program started on a somewhat limited basis last year, although participating restaurants were spread across most parts of the state. 

       Cooksley says this year’s program runs through September 30 with passports, a list of participating restaurants, and information on the rules and prizes available online at www.goodlifegreatsteaks.org.

Governor Ricketts also encouraged everyone to get a passport and take part in the programs. He even offered a word on his preferences as a beef eater.

Nebraska ranks first in the nation for commercial cattle slaughter and second for beef exports, all cattle on feed, and commercial red meat production. Beef exports last year topped the previous yearly record by 25% at $1.81-billion dollars.