Emma Harvey of Memphis, Mo., was crowned the 2023 Missouri Beef Queen during the 55th Annual Missouri Cattle Industry Convention & Trade Show. Harvey represented the NEMO Cattlemen's Association and is the daughter of Brian and Brandi Harvey. She received a $1,000 scholarship. Winning first runner-up was Macy Stauffer, representing Vernon County Cattlemen's. She received a $500 scholarship. The second runner-up was Shaye Siegel, representing Cooper County Cattlemen's. She received a $250 scholarship. Also competing were Jadyn Lower, representing St. Clair County Cattlemen's; Jaka Sharp, representing Polk County Cattlemen's; and Rylee Shelton, representing SEMO Cattlemen's.
Each of the six contestants presented a speech on a topic relating to the beef industry and interviewed with a panel of three judges. The competition was held January 7, 2023, in Osage Beach. The Missouri Beef Queen will be responsible for representing the Missouri beef industry at livestock shows, conferences and events throughout the year. The Missouri CattleWomen's Association hosts the contest each year. It is supported by the Missouri Cattlemen's Association and Missouri's Cattlemen Foundation. The Missouri Beef Industry Council, Gilbert Cattle Co., Carolyn Dieckman, Sue Day, Patty Wood, Darla Haines, Gidget Funk, Jennifer Poor, Donnia Besher, Andrea Reed and Andrea Kientzy are all sponsors.
"The Missouri Beef Queen Contest serves as a launching pad for young cattlewomen to become advocates for the beef industry," said Jennifer Poor, Beef Queen Committee member, alongside Carolyn Dieckman and Darla Haines, chair. "Through this program, the queen gains the necessary tools to become a leader for Missouri beef producers."
Categories: Missouri, Harvesting, Livestock, Beef Cattle