Henryettan Andy Bealko was named the Okmulgee County Cattleman of the Year Monday.
bealko cattlemanBealko operates the Circle B Ranch, a cow-calf ranch south of Henryetta with his wife Pam.
He received the award Monday night at the 48th annual Okmulgee County Cattlemen's Association banquet and annual meeting.
“I’m very humbled to get the award,” he said Monday. That award was presented along with a congratulatory citation from State Sen. Roger Thompson. The state citation recognizing Bealko for his contributions to the cattle ranching industry in the state. The plaque is a large circular metal disc that he said will be attached to the front gate at his ranch.
He and his family have been operating the 250-acre ranch since 1999. At one time, he also ran some horses in addition to the cattle. He said that was primarily to provide his children, Susan, Bill, Andy Jennifer and Elizabeth, with some entertainment.
“I do nothing but cattle now. That’s enough to keep me busy.”
He went on to say the cattle industry has had its share of ups and downs but currently, “the price of cattle is reasonable and, if you manage a ranch right, you can make a living.”
Besides working his cattle, Bealko also sells equipment for Stewart Martin in Okmulgee and is one of the voices providing commentary at basketball games for Thehenryettan.com