Personal Responsibility, Values Emphasized During Opening Session
PHOENIX, Ariz. (Jan. 28, 2009) — The 2009 Cattle Industry Annual Convention and NCBA Trade Show kicked off with its opening general session Wednesday, Jan. 28. Keynote speaker John Kasich emphasized American values and commended America’s cattlemen for their important role in society.
“If we lose the American farmer, it’s a loss of a value system,” Kasich said. “You have a God-given purpose.”
Kasich served in the Ohio State Senate before serving 18 years in the U.S. House of Representatives. He is also author of the book Stand for Something.
John KasichDuring his address, Kasich focused on the values that are important in today’s society — personal responsibility, teamwork, humility and honesty. He said he’s always been taught that there is no substitute for honesty. “If you’ve been honest in the process, you’ll be remembered for honesty and integrity.”
Kasich shared how corruption in sports, politics, pop culture and business have eroded our role models in those industries. And he talked about how religion gives society a conscience, saying, “There’s nothing more important to the foundation of our country.”
Kasich noted that the current economic downturn may be a blessing in disguise. He said, “Maybe this downturn is the time when you can talk to your sons and daughters about staying right there on the farm. Maybe we can recruit a generation to remain on the farm and preserve those values.”
“We should all put our shoulders to the wheel,” he concluded. “If we all pitch in we can win the battle for America’s soul.”
Other highlights
Retiring NCBA chief Executive Officer (CEO) Terry Stokes was also recognized during the session for his 13 years of dedication to NCBA. In his outgoing remarks, Stokes vowed to remain a part of the industry saying, “I’m not going away. Roles change, but relationships remain.”
During the next two days of the conference, issues forums, committee meetings and policy sessions will take center stage. A series of new events designed especially for youth will include team marketing, quiz bowl, cattle judging and public speaking contests. Additionally, the newly formed Young Producers Council (YPC) — directed at members ages 18 to 35 — will hold its first formal meeting during the convention.
Editor’s Note: This article was written under contract or by staff of Angus Productions Inc. (API), which claims copyright to this article. It may not be published or distributed without the express permission of Angus Productions Inc. To request reprint permission and guidelines, contact Shauna Rose Hermel, editor, at (816) 383-5270.