Miss American Angus | Speech | Archives
Danielle Foster
Miss American Angus Travels
Greetings from the season-confused state of Michigan! There are 2 things my winter and early spring have consisted of, lots of snow and Angus cattle. Allow me to share the activities that have been keeping me occupied. When I returned from Louisville, the news had already spread and my peers and instructors were full of questions about what I won, how I won it, what I would be doing, etc. etc.
Immediately upon my return, many newspapers and magazines such as our local papers, the Michigan Cattleman magazine, the Farmer’s Advance and Exchange, and our school paper published my story. These articles were great since they not only promoted the breed and got the word “Angus” out into the public, but they also encouraged people to ask questions. This provided me the opportunity to share my Angus knowledge with them.
I was incredibly honored when the President of Southwestern Michigan College and the Board of Trustees, asked that I attend their meeting to be recognized and speak a bit about what I will be doing over the year. It was very special, and thoughtful of them to recognize this accomplishment.
Next, I was off to Wooster, Ohio to the Certified Angus Beef headquarters. There I attended the Building Blocks for Success Seminar. The seminar was wonderful and not only did I learn so many things about Certified Angus Beef, but I also met and was reunited with many fabulous people. Thank you to the entire CAB staff for making the seminar so educational and so enjoyable.
After a wonderful Christmas with my family, I was on my way to Denver for the week’s events. I arrived in Denver and attended the herdsman’s banquet. I also had a great time at the Angus reception and the Foundation reception. Tuesday through Saturday were occupied with the shows. At the junior show on Tuesday, I believe I mastered the art of switching clothes in a matter of minutes and my dad mastered being the “official crown and clothes holder.” Thank you to all the regional managers, James Fisher, Shelia Stannard, the junior board, and the queens who assisted me with the awards for all your help. Coming down with a cold made my eyes a bit blurry for the pictures, but all in all, the week was incredible!
My next event was the Michigan Beef Expo up in Lansing. This was my first time in my blazer, crown, and banner back in my home state. The highlight of the weekend was slapping the champion Angus as supreme champion for the open show, not a typical queen’s duty. I am very proud to be from such a wonderful state with so many supportive people. Thank you to Nancy, Barb, Dr. Hawkins, Janel, Kris, and everyone else for all your help and support. It is going to be a great year for Michigan!
Our trip to Reno can be related to the movie, “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles.” We experienced cancelled flights, a long drive, earthquakes, and flying through the night. The show was phenomenal though and everyone was so helpful and friendly. Friday, once we finally arrived, I was able to speak with the Western States Angus Queen girls and then that night I participated in the junior activities, which was so much fun! Saturday through Monday were busy with shows. On Sunday night my mom, brother, and I escaped up to Lake Tahoe; words cannot explain how beautiful it is. Thank you to Laurie VanRoekel, Elizabeth Gavette, Amanda Lewis, and Michelle Faulkner for all your help. Congratulations to Michelle on being crowned the new Western States Angus Queen. It was a pleasure spending the weekend with you ladies. Also, thank you to the junior board leadership team for making me feel like part of “your 6,” I had an amazing time with you all.
We returned from Reno on Tuesday at 9 a.m. and by noon I was at school to take some finals. Once finals were over I had my first activity for May. I was invited to be a guest at a preschool in Granger, Indiana. As the young lady who invited me, introduced me as, “a real live princess.” We talked about cattle, made cow puppets and cow bracelets, had a picnic, and played outside. They were full of questions and full of excitement! I had a wonderful time with them!
Upcoming events for Miss American Angus include a visit to the state capital to be recognized on the senate floor and meet with senators and representatives. I will have the opportunity to hand out information and tasty Certified Angus Beef steak strips. Following that, I will be traveling into Chicago to do a radio and television interview with Orion Samuelson. That will be incredibly exciting and a great opportunity to share the excitement of the Angus breed! All of the shows are quickly coming and going, so that will also keep me busy.
I wish I could thank all of the people who have helped me, but that would take a website on its own. So, right now I want to thank the entire staff at CAB again, especially for their continued assistance with upcoming events. Also, the MAA committee for all of their work; it is definitely appreciated.
Like many of you, my countdown to summer is in full swing. I cannot wait for the things that lie ahead this summer. The traveling, the shows, the rekindled friendships, and most importantly the memories that will be made! Best wishes for a beautiful spring. I will see you all soon at an upcoming Angus event!