It doesn’t seem possible that twelve months have flown by this quickly, but they have.What a pleasure it has been to serve each one of you and this great industry.It has been a ride that I will cherish forever.I have met so many great folks along the way that carry the same passion and drive for this industry that I do.
Talk about #LetsRideTogether! I need to thank so many folks for always “riding with me” and eager to give out a helping hand.
First and foremost, The Good Lord, for giving me the health and passion to hopefully move our Association and industry forward.My wife and my family, for taking care of things at home while I was away, never knowing when I would return. Sometimes, I’d be gone for days at a time.Thanks to the Longino Family, for allowing me to serve this industry and spend days away from the ranch.The Longino Ranch Employees, that may or may not have given up on me showing up to give them a helping hand around the ranch. My Executive Committee, for always being there and picking up my slack when I am traveling from one end of the state to the other and when it was impossible to make all of the meetings myself.FCA President-Elect, Wes Carlton, for stepping up last year at the end of convention when my Bells Palsy kicked in, I couldn’t see out of my left eye and my speech was very slurred, thank you again for all of the advice and always being willing to step in at any time.To all Committee Chairs, Vice Chairs and each committee member that makes this association such a great organization.There is one committee in particular I’d like to thank, the Legislative Committee.This committee stepped up, we met every other week last fall before Legislative Session began and then during session we met EVERY FRIDAY afternoon at 3:00 to make sure our issues stayed in front and center of as many legislators as possible.Things like The Right to Farm bill, Sales Tax Exemption on Fencing, Cattle Enhancement Board Funding, and making sure the Florida Department of Agriculture received funding that helps us operate each year. UF IFAS Budget, that does most all of the research that helps keep us in business.My last thank you will be to the Staff.What a great job you do keeping us all focused and informed so that we are where we need to be and at the right time.I could keep going, there are so many more people over the last year that have reached out to lend a helping hand.So thank you all.
At convention, I will step down, knowing that our association is in good hands for years to come.Wes Carlton will be taking over as President with a great group of officers following him.
What a ride it has been serving you and this association.
