As the hustle and bustle of the holidays roll around, it’s time for my second Annual Pep Talk on “Let’s have beef for the holidays.”

Just think what an impact it would be for beef sales if everyone in the beef industry had beef for the holidays. We wouldn’t all have to eat the same cuts; there’s plenty to go around. If you don’t receive this message in time to change over for Thanksgiving, there will be plenty of time for Christmas.

Beef is excellent for Christmas dinner at your own table. It also makes an appreciated gift for Christmas. And why not, there are many private label companies who supply a variety of beef specialty items. I am sure most will ship whatever you want, wherever you want.

Selecting gifts is a challenge, but everyone would welcome a package of good steaks. Try it; it will prove to be a crowd pleaser. A friend of mine told me about one of his family traditions. He cooks two tenderloins for Christmas every year, and he told me how everyone looked forward to it.

Still having problems converting your turkey-eating friends and family to beef for the holidays? It could be mentioned that cows eat strictly a vegetarian diet, but turkeys will eat anything.

At Feed•Lot Magazine for the past 10 years we have sent out to our advertisers, before the Christmas mail crunch, a pound of Beef Jerky. In our case, the Jerky is received with anticipation and has become a tradition. The Jerky is locally produced, and we send it out in boxes provided by the post office.

In case you don’t have a local source to fill your orders and ship your gifts of beef, give this source a chance. America’s Best Steaks, PO Box 129, Bogue, Kans. 67625. Phone 1-785-421-2011 or rd@americasbeststeaks.com. Their meat is dry aged, upper two thirds choice and prime. With good beef, you are bound to have a Happy Holiday. . ©