by José Varela López

New Mexico Cattle Grower’s Association President’s Message

Dear Fellow Members and Industry Supporters,

First of all, I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas and a New Years’ that inspired a sense of renewal and the promise of future blessings.

As we start this year my wish is that we focus on the challenges that lie ahead with renewed vigor. This year of 2014 marks our 100th anniversary as an association. An association dedicated to sustaining our industry for the long haul, in both large and small ways; from fighting for legislation that ensures the longevity of our economic well being, to the kinship that we share at the gatherings where we exchange information and even the frequent external annoyances that remind us the world is no longer rural centric.

On that note, the thirty-day legislative session is merely more than a week away, and as happens annually, we are sure to face challenges both old and new. Pat Boone, our President-Elect, and our incomparable staffers, are ready to inform legislators on the issues that impact our industry and do the utmost to protect our means of providing food for this country while benefitting our state, both culturally and economically.

Please join us in Santa Fe if the opportunity arises. We will certainly be keeping you up to speed on emerging issues and would appreciate your help, even if it’s from home. It takes everyone to make a difference. As you know, agricultural awareness at the roundhouse is very minimal and it is our job to educate the policy makers so that they are able to make fully informed decisions.

In the meantime, may we all be blessed with more moisture, bringing the promise of green pastures, fat cows and healthy calves. And the renewal of our efforts to grow agriculture, as we start our second hundred years as an association.

Hasta pronto,

José J. Varela López