Cattlemen celebrate fall with awards

For The Madera Tribune

Cattleman of the Year Ben Elgorria.

Our local Cattlemen and Cowboys provide backyard barbecues with the meat that makes up the mainstay for many a roundup, tailgate and banquet.

On October 21, many of these California beef purveyors gathered to recognize and celebrate the people who provide service to the association and the beef industry.

Cowboy of the year, Trevor Waag, introduced by Carlos Martinez and Cattleman of the Year Ben Elgorria, presented by Clif Calhoun, were honored for their cattle ranching and many years of service to the beef industry.

Safeguarding the ability to raise cattle to feed the world is a matter these folks take very seriously.

These men and women are the cowboy boots on the ground, working long hours providing medical and other labor to the cows and calves that ensure the growth of their herds.

While their time raising cattle isn’t always glamorous, their work is an intense labor of love.

Well-known members of the beef advocacy movement, Michele Lasgoity, David Gill and Assemblyman Frank Bigelow led the program at the historic Buchneau Ranch in Madera.

Lasgoity is the great-niece of the late Herb and Elsie Buchneau, who graciously opened their family’s ranch for the Madera County Cattlemen’s Association annual Fall Dinner and Awards Ceremony.

Recognized for their friendship with the association Sheriff Tyson Pogue, Rusty Lantsberger, Michele Stehly and Cecil Hillerman received plaques and certificates for their patronage.

The plaques and certificates, provided by Assemblyman Bigelow, came from the City of Madera, Madera County and the California State Assembly.

An informative talk by the California Beef Council Chairwoman Cindy Tews on the marketing strategy titled “the things in your control and not in your control,” was well received.

California Cattlemen’s Association President Tony Toso also spoke on “Wildfire efforts and successes with the California legislature.”

Wildfires are a constant threat to many industries. And especially to the ranchers grazing their herds in the valley foothills and elsewhere.

Also recognized for their work supporting the cattle industry were Amy Evans for the scholarship program, Jeanne Todisco for the fair contributions and Michele Lasgoity for her MCAA advocacy and community support.

A spirited dessert auction, led by Matt Beechinor and Travis Sammons, consisted of 10 home-crafted cakes, pies, cupcakes and cookies and raised $8,650 for the association’s scholarship fund. The MCAA awards $5,000 annually to support students pursuing careers in the cattle industry.

The MCCA’s mission statement encourages understanding and support of our California Cattle Industry.

The star of the dinner, a full-course beef dinner with all the trimmings, was prepared and served by Geoff and Tammy Tipton and crew from Cowboy Catering of Raymond.