Peralta woman named NM CowBelle of the Year
Group supports beef industry, has been active in state since 1957
PERALTA — Carolyn Chance, of Peralta, was named the New Mexico CowBelles’ 2017 CowBelle of the Year at the Joint Stockmen’s Convention, held recently in Albuquerque.
Chance is a 12-year member of the Chuckwagon CowBelles, which nominated her for the award. Her nomination cites her energy and dedication in all she does.
“Carolyn actively and continually supports the beef industry with her involvement at the local and state levels. She strives to involve others and volunteers with dedication and a ‘get it done right’ attitude.”
A native of eastern New Mexico, Chance worked for the Cooperative Extension Service for 25 years in Lea, Bernalillo and Valencia counties, then worked for the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association for six years before “retiring” and becoming active in the CowBelles and other groups.
“We truly appreciate Carolyn’s efforts on behalf of the New Mexico CowBelles to promote beef and educate the public about agriculture,” said Ashley Ivins, NMCB president, Capitan. “The generosity and dedication of women like Carolyn is and always has been the backbone of our association, and we are glad to have this opportunity to say thank you.”
She is a former president, vice president and program chairman, and beef promotion chairman for the Chuckwagon Cowbelles, and is very active in both local and state CowBelles’ activities including ag days, county fairs, Indian Livestock Day, Galloping Grace Ranch’s Pumpkin Patch, the newly instituted “Valencia County Food Camp for Kids” and more.
On the state level, she has held several offices including membership chairman, state secretary and District 1 representative.
She is also active in her community and church, is a member of the Sunshine MidValley Extension Club and helps judge 4-H entries at the county and state level.
The first local chapter of the New Mexico CowBelles was founded in 1957, following the lead of a group of Douglas, Ariz., ranch wives and daughters who first established the CowBelles in 1939.
The group has evolved today as a leader in providing consumer information on the benefits of beef to the American diet. Additionally the CowBelles provide social support for their fellow members and local charities.