By: Halla Ramsey, RASF treasurer and RAAA EDO

Our members and stakeholders often remind us that while they come to Red Angus for the cattle, they stay for the community. This Thanksgiving season, we are especially grateful for the people who make the Red Angus community so strong. Your commitment to excellence, collaboration and innovation continues to drive our breed and our mission forward.

As the seasons change, I believe it’s nature’s way of telling us to pause. To check our hearts, perspectives, goals, and our purpose. Each year, Red Angus breeders, members, and affiliates demonstrate that our association’s values extend far beyond the pasture. Whether it’s lending a hand to a neighbor, supporting youth in agriculture, volunteering at local events, or donating beef to those in need, the Red Angus community continues to live out the principles of service and stewardship.

A prime example of this spirit of giving is the annual Pick of the Herd donation, featured in the Red Angus Stakeholders Foundation live auction during convention. This year, Cross Diamond Cattle Company, owned by Scott and Kim Ford of Bertrand, Nebraska, generously offered the Pick of their open heifers which was more than 250 head to choose from. This unprecedented contribution from the Fords demonstrates the depth of generosity and commitment within our membership.

Funds raised through this offering directly support the Foundation’s mission: to strengthen the Red Angus breed by advancing youth programs, research and development, and educational and charitable initiatives. These efforts ensure that the Red Angus breed continues to grow in efficiency, innovation, and industry impact.

This year’s Pick of the Herd brought $40,000, and we extend a heartfelt thank you to the purchaser, Mitchell Bottomly and Bottomly Farms for their outstanding support of the Foundation and the future of our breed.

Are you interested in contributing to next year’s Pick of the Herd offering? We’d love to hear from you! Contact Halla@redangus.org to submit your nomination.

As we approach the holiday season, we ask can we count on you to help us continue our mission and drive the breed forward? Giving Tuesday is Dec. 2 – a perfect opportunity to give back and strengthen the Red Angus legacy.

Together, through thankful hearts and generous hands, we continue to build stronger communities and a stronger future for the Red Angus breed.