In cooperation with more than 22,000 other life and regular members, you govern the Association through a unique structure that identifies the leaders of our business and sets the course for the future. I am impressed with the leaders elected and with the democratic process, which results in the election of delegates to the Annual Meeting and their election of Directors and Officers for the coming year. Outstanding leaders, elected through a representative democratic process, account for much of the strength and growth of the Association through the years. It's something we should be dedicated to preserving. Leadership is important to all levels of the Angus business - from your local and state associations to the national level.
Good leadership is also important for all organizations in the beef industry.
Agriculture needs good leaders, not because we are seeking any kind of advantage in our business, but to ensure that agriculture gets a fair shake and the opportunity to continue to produce food that is vital not only to consumers but also to the survival of the beef industry and our national economy. The same applies as we look to leadership in local, state and federal government. One of the most difficult jobs leaders in any industry face is to look beyond the present situation to envision long-term needs, then put programs into action to achieve them. Your Board of Directors has done just that with strategic long-range planning for the Angus breed and Association. This sometimes results in decisions that are initially unpopular, even though they may be necessary for survival and meaningful long-term achievement.