The annual Partnerships in Action (PIA) conference, held Oct. 13-16 in Denver, Colorado, brought state
beef councils from across the country together. They learned about the work of the Beef Checkoff. Attendees representing the Wisconsin Beef Council discussed ways national efforts can be expanded in the state and developed a game plan for implementation. Coordinated by the Federation of State Beef Councils and funded by the Beef Checkoff, PIA strengthens the state and national Checkoff partnership.
Professional baseball player Ty Blach was the event’s keynote speaker and shared how his agricultural
roots instilled the drive and work ethic to succeed in baseball. Blach’s parents grew up on Colorado’s
eastern plains and the Blach family ranch in Yuma provided many life lessons during his formative years.
Growing up, he spent a lot of time on the ranch branding cattle and seeing firsthand how agriculture
provides opportunities. “It is awesome to know state beef councils across the country are working together to share ideas and to be there for each other,” he said. “Everyone is here for a reason – sharing their passion about beef.”
Topics discussed during PIA highlighted how the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to 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 65 staff members, from 30 state beef councils, participated in the event.
“Collaboration among state beef councils sparks innovation,” said Vaassen. “Every time we come
together to exchange ideas, I leave motivated and equipped with new ways to enhance our programs in
Wisconsin.”
