COURTESY PHOTOS
Paradise Valley's Ashley Buckingham recently returned from the 2015 National Beef Ambassador Competition in Denver, Colo., Sept. 26-27. Buckingham competed in the senior division with contestants ages 17-21, where the young women were judged in areas of consumer promotion, education and outreach strategy, media interview technique and issue response. Contestants from throughout the country vied for a place on the team of agriculture advocates. There were cash prizes and educational scholarships offered as well. While preparing for this national beef promotion and education competition, youth across the nation learned about beef and the beef industry with support from state Cattlewomen and Cattlemen's associations and state beef councils. The preparation highlights industry issues of current consumer interest. Buckingham went to the national competition as the state level Beef Ambassador winner. There she received additional training. After the event, the youth ambassadors are expected to speak to industry issues and misconceptions, to educate the public about beef nutrition, cattle care, safety and more during consumer events, in the classroom and online.[[In-content Ad]]
