President’s Podium – Looking Toward Convention

As many of our members are working to bring in the harvests, whether that is wheat in Eastern Colorado, Wyoming, and New Mexico or fruit and vegetables in all areas of our three states, we are reminded that the year is now half over. That means that planning is well underway by the RMFU Staff, the Policy Committee will soon be meeting, county chapters will be having their chapter conventions, and before we know it, we will be gathering in Greeley for our 2023 RMFU convention! Those who have attended in the past will get a chance to catch up with old friends, and I’m hopeful we continue to see more people attend for the first time and become new friends!

Convention is a very important time for our members not just for the social activities, but also for the educational opportunities. Convention offers a chance to hear great speakers and presenters and, most importantly, to set the direction for RMFU for the following year.

This will be the first time in many years that I will not serve as policy chair. The policy committee has been selected, and I have the highest confidence that they will carry out excellent work preparing a red line policy for debate in November.

Also, each year, we have a number of board seats up for election.  This year we will have three seats, in District V, District VI and for Vice President. As I have said in previous articles, this will be Dr. Dale McCall’s last of many years serving on the RMFU Board, first as Vice President, then as President.  We are thankful for his service to our organization and to Colorado Agriculture, and I have especially appreciated his willingness to mentor me and help in my transition into the President role.  As Dale is not planning to run for a board seat this year, we will have an open election for Vice President.

I encourage anyone who is considering running to reach out to myself, one of the other board members, or to our CEO Ben Rainbolt and ask questions.  The role of board members is not one to be taken lightly, as the board is responsible for many important decisions ensuring that the future of RMFU remains strong. The deadline to submit your intent to run is September 18. All intents to run should be submitted to Secretary Barb Marty.  I am available to talk to any members about the role of the board, whether you are interested in running, or just want to know more about your organization.

Everyone stay safe, and we look forward to gathering in November!