02/07/07 Beef activist

Beef Activist When cattle and beef producers hear the word, activist we are instantly on guard. I'm Jeff Keane; I'll be back in one minute to tell you about becoming one. Just hearing the word, activist can make the hair stand up on the back of the necks of most cattle producers, but the time may have come to become an activist. I recently read an article in the "National Cattlemen" that brought out that point supported by how to accomplish this transformation. I think cattlemen dislike even the word, activist, because most activists are negative or anti-something like anti-beef people trying to change everyone into a vegetarian and shut down animal agriculture. The fact is only about four percent of the U.S. population is vegetarian and it is a lifestyle that fits those people, that's fine, but when activists use violence, vandalism, or distortion of the truth to try to further their cause that gives activism a bad reputation. Anti-beef activists are negative and small in total numbers but large in vocal cord exercise and volume. Beef activists have the perfect scenario to be positive activists. A 2006 Harris poll conducted by the National Cattlemen's Beef Association showed 97 percent of American consumers "like or love" beef. We have truth on our side. We must become positive and passionate about that truth. Truth that responsible cattle producers take care of their animals and that part of the environment entrusted to them plus the truth beef is safe, wholesome, nutritious, and part of a balanced diet. Truth is, I like to balance it with vegetables, fruits and dairy  especially ice cream. I'm Jeff Keane. National Cattlemen Winter 2007