Something to Think About
Political Reflections – As Farm Bureau members gathered for their Annual Meeting in November , they were joined by numerous decision-makers , including Congressman Nick Rahall II , Senator Dave Sypolt and Senatorelect Daniel Hall , and Delegates Brent Boggs , Anna Border , Ray Canterbury , Bill Hartman and “ Woody ” Ireland . We thank these public servants , who are all Farm Bureau members , for their involvement in our meeting , as well as their continued commitment to making a positive difference for the citizens of our state .
Don Michael , WVFB Director of Governmental Affairs
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There was much discussion about state election results , particularly the shifting dynamics in the House ( GOP gain of 11 seats for a total of 46 Republicans to 54 Democrats ), and the big wins by Farm Bureau-endorsed candidates for Attorney General ( Patrick Morrisey ) and Supreme Court ( Allen Loughry ). The Farm Bureau endorsement process – driven largely by local recommendations to the FB Farm PAC , questionnaires , and voting record / performance ( in the case of incumbents ) – continues to be an effective and highly successful procedure for identifying candidates in both major political parties who support the conservative values embraced by our membership . As a matter of record , West Virginia Farm Bureau made endorsements in 15 Senate races , and was successful in 14 of those races for a 93 % success rate . Endorsements were made in 75 House races , with 64 of our endorsed candidates winning , for an 85 % success rate . Of the candidates endorsed , 45.5 % were Democrat and 54.5 % were Republican .
With the election behind us and
... Gus Douglass is known as ‘ the gift that keeps on giving ,’ in recognition of his demonstrated leadership ... as well as his commitment to the West Virginia FFA Foundation in opening doors to opportunity for young people preparing for exciting careers in our industry ...”
clear focus on the future , I had the good fortune to join representatives of your Farm Bureau leadership team in two planning meetings last month at the state capitol – one with Governor Earl Ray Tomblin and Chief of Staff , Rob Alsop , and the other with Agriculture Commissioner-elect Walt Helmick . We appreciate these state leaders taking time from their demanding schedules to discuss challenges , opportunities and legislative priorities for 2013 . Members of your leadership team participating in the meetings included : President Charles Wilfong , Vice President
John Pitsenbarger , and Directors Joe Clay , Steve Conrad , Philip Gregg and Steve Hannah .
During the November Legislative Interims I had the opportunity to walk down memory lane with Agriculture Commissioner Gus R . Douglass , and share in his wisdom as he peered into the crystal ball of the future . Even though our nation ’ s longest serving Agriculture Commissioner will soon be passing the torch , it was quite obvious his concern and compassion for agriculture will never fade . In FFA circles Gus Douglass is known as “ the gift that keeps on giving ,” in recognition of his demonstrated leadership over the decades , as well as his commitment to the West Virginia FFA Foundation in opening doors to opportunity for young people preparing for exciting careers in our industry of agriculture . We wish Commissioner Douglass the very best in the future , as we do the new torch-bearer for agriculture , Commissioner-elect Walt Helmick .
CHRISTmas is upon us , with the New Year close behind . As we look to the future , I leave you with a tidbit of wisdom from one of my ancestors , Ben Franklin – “ Remember not only to say the right things in the right place , but far more difficult still is to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment .” Until next time , take care FRIENDS , God bless you and your loved ones , and KEEP SMILING .
West Virginia Farm Bureau News 5