As I write this column on Veterans Day, and with the 2012 elections concluded, I am reminded of the gratitude that we owe to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice so that each of us has the freedom to go to the polls and cast our votes. We want to say a special thanks to those of our members who are veterans, and to all of our nation’s heroes past and present, not just on Veterans Day, but every day.
Heading into the holiday season, there is much to be grateful for and to celebrate. Polk County Farm Bureau is proud of recent acknowledgements at the 2012 Florida Farm Bureau Annual Meeting, where we received the following recognitions:
• 2012 President’s Award
• Award for Excellence in Legislative/Policy Implementation, Public Relations, Organization and Management, Education/Agriculture Promotion, and Leadership Development
• Award for Largest County Membership Numerical Gain Over Quota
• Florida Agriculture Marketing Association Award of Excellence (Marilyn Francisco – Bartow office)
• Top Agent in Membership Sales, District V (Rhonda Ambrose – Haines City office)
Polk County Farm Bureau enjoys a great team of dedicated agents, staff and board members. We appreciate everyone’s efforts!
On November 6, we received a proclamation from the Board of County Commissioners recognizing November 16-22 as National Farm City Week. Our Young Farmer and Rancher Committee worked with students and staff at Spessard L. Holland Elementary to produce a video celebrating Farm City Week and showcasing local aquaculture, blueberry, cattle, citrus, and peach operations. Be sure to check out the video on PCFB’s Facebook page.
Our Young Farmer and Rancher Committee is growing stronger and more active every day. With many new talented members, we are able to develop future industry leaders and further our agriculture education outreach goals. A special congratulations to YF&R Chairman Tamara Wood and member Michael Matteson for being selected to participate in Florida Farm Bureau’s 2012-2014 Young Farmers and Ranchers Leadership Program.
Tickets are now available for the December 14 and 15 YF&R Holiday Hayride events. We will host a special guest both evenings this year, as Santa Claus himself will stop by for photos with the children from 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person for the hayride and $5 per photo with Santa. Call Sharon Wheeler at (863) 533-0561, ext. 112, or e-mail her at SharonW@pcfb.org to reserve tickets.
On behalf of the PCFB board of directors, we wish everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving.
CREDIT
column by LESLIE W. DUNSON III
Leslie W. (Les) Dunson III is president of the Polk County Farm Bureau.
