RAPID CITY, S.D. – Two information-filled days, over 30 impactful speakers, a producer-focused trade show, socials, networking opportunities and more are all part of the 24TH Annual R-CALF USA National Convention, August 16 and 18, in Rapid City.
Hundreds of cattle producers, agri-business representatives and industry leaders from across the country will gather at The Monument, in Rapid City, for the Convention and Trade Show themed “American Spirit.”
Among the many critical issues slated for discussion is the ongoing globalization effort to control the food supply and those who produce it.
To emphasize the importance of this issue, the ranch group has invited Dutch farmers’ advocate and internationally renowned political commentator, Eva Vlaardingerbroek of Amsterdam, Netherlands, to give the keynote address.
Vlaardingerbroek is well-known worldwide as one of the key voices advocating for farmers and fighting against globalization and the eradication of freedom.
The educational event, which is open to the public, serves as a focal point for cattle and sheep producers, researchers, journalists, policymakers, and consumers to convene and share insights towards restoring America’s food security in the United States cattle and sheep industries.
On Wednesday afternoon Aug. 16, pre-convention activities will kick off with committee and policy development meetings and an affiliate council meeting. Wednesday evening will host a welcome reception with appetizers, drinks, early registration, and trade show access.
On Thursday, Aug. 17, following a convention welcome and prayer breakfast, attendees will hear from: U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY); U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux; No Rancher Left Behind campaign leader and rancher advocate, Coy Young; antitrust attorney on R-CALF USA’s lawsuit against the Big 4 packers, Daniel Herrera; trade expert, Charles Benoit; expert on the Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef, Tracy Hunt; and a sheep industry panel featuring American sheep producers Bill Kluck, Carson Jorgensen, and John Espil.
Thursday will conclude with a dinner and social featuring cowboy poetry and musical entertainment by Colin Wood, of Newell, S.D.
Speakers on Friday, Aug. 18, will include property rights advocate, Angel Cushing; monopoly power and market concentration expert, Claire Kelloway; U.S./Mexico border rancher, Erica Valdez; large animal veterinarian, Dr. Lora Bledsoe; members of the R-CALF USA Board of Directors; and R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard.
Friday afternoon will end with the annual business meeting where current R-CALF USA members present and vote on organization policy.
Friday’s evening banquet will include the annual saddle raffle drawing, a live auction fundraiser, and the keynote address, “The Global War on Farming: Control the Food, Control the People,” given by Dutch farmers’ advocate and internationally renowned political commentator, Eva Vlaardingerbroek, of Amsterdam, Netherlands.
For more information on the event and to view a full agenda go on line to www.rcalfconvention.com.
