The Nebraska Beef Council (NBC) will hold Board of Director elections in five districts in 2008. This opportunity is open to qualified Nebraska beef producers who are 21 years of age or older, a registered voter, and a resident of the district that he or she will represent. The term is four years and will begin on January 1, 2009.
Nebraska Beef Council directors volunteer their time to represent beef producers' checkoff investments on the state and national level. The Board's major responsibility is to oversee checkoff expenditures by determining promotion, research and education programs for checkoff investments. Ann Marie Bosshamer, NBC Executive Director, encourages anyone interested in becoming a beef council director to visit with current and past directors to learn more about this valuable experience and its commitment. In addition, it is very beneficial for a candidate to attend a beef council board meeting to witness firsthand the duties of the board of directors and how the checkoff is invested.
Election packets are availible beginning on May 1, 2008. Possible candidates must obtain 100 valid signatures from beef producers in their districts on a candidate petition. All candidate materials, including signature petition, statement of intent, and candidate affidavit must be returned to the NBC office by September 1, 2008.
The following area districts will hold elections: District #5 includes Garfield, Custer, Valley, Greeley, Sherman, Howard, Buffalo, and Hall Counties. (Note: Lin Jeffres, the current District 5 director, has served two terms and is not eligible for reelection.) District #7 includes Platte, Colfax, Dodge, Washington, Nance, Merrick, Polk, Butler, Saunders, Douglas, Hamilton, York, Cass, and Sarpy Counties.
(Note: Bill Rhea Jr., the current District 7 director, has indicated that he will pursue reelection.) "Beef producers who are passionate about the industry and who are willing to provide leadership to the beef checkoff program and its investments are needed as we face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead," said Bosshamer. "We need strong leaders to enhance our mission and strengthen beef demand in the global marketplace."
Ballots will be mailed to beef producers in the election districts on November 1, 2008 and must be postmarked by November 15th to be eligible. Results will be announced on December 1, 2008. For additional information or to receive your candidate petition packet, contact the Nebraska Beef Council office at 1-800-421-5326 or log on to www.nebeef.org.
