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Editor's Desk by Bob Strong, Editor The proof for the need of trade associations is in their existence. If they weren't a benefit to the members, they would not be supported. Granted there are times when questions should be asked. But that's as it should be. Trade associations should always be on the edge of what's happening. The job of the directors and officers is to constantly be looking for solutions to the problems the members of the organization may be facing. They are always looking at change and the directions the organization may need to take in the future. There are always a few "nay-sayers," who may not be informed about both sides of an issue and there are also the "aginners," who get their attention by being against whatever the majority is in favor of. The two groups mentioned above usually don't have positive, alternative solutions or programs. They're just against what is going on presently. This is a negative evaluation. Unfortunately, it's all too true Attending the NCBA summer conference was a very positive experience. It's rewarding to see so many busy people giving generously of their time and experience. Beef consumption is continuing to grow--demand for beef increased five percent in the last quarter of 2001 and beef demand is up for ten of the last 12 quarters. The future looks good. To quote NCBA president, Lynn Cornwell, "Results in Washington and in the market place are only possible though organizations and working hard to develop strategies that make this industry work better. That's what industry meetings like this are all about." Also to quote Dan Hammond, 2001 CBB chairman, "Producers are here to chart the course for the checkoff program and the industry in fiscal year 2002. We're the authors of what's to come in terms of directing demand-building programs like new product development, restaurant and supermarket promotions, nutrition partnerships, youth education, food safety research and more. Not only will we review and make recommendations to proposed plans of work, but also we, as a Beef Board, will approve a fiscal year 2002 checkoff budget to bring those plans to fruition." Our performance is not without critics, nor without production challenges like a slowing national economy and widespread news coverage of foreign animal diseases like BSE and FMD. But we do have the benefit of dedicated performers who have a track record of visionary foresight and teamwork. It's this dedication to increasing beef demand that has kept our industry focused around one aggressive long-range plan for the future." It is a benefit to see how well the beef industry and its trade organization function. |
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