Sidey Entertains Convention Attendees

Former political and White House correspondent with Time magazine, Hugh Sidey presented a patriotic and humorous keynote address during the opening general session at the 2003 Cattle Industry Convention. Sidey has covered 10 presidential administrations dating back to John F. Kennedy.
"These are tough times," he said alluding to the pending war overseas. "But President Bush is a different man. He is bold, decisive and decent," he said confidently.
Looking back Sidey pointed out that our nation has often had challenges – such as the Cuban missle crisis, Kennedy’s assassination and Nixon’s resignation – and, the U.S. has always overcome them. "The last 10 years we’ve had so much peace and prosperity that we’ve gotten out of training."
"During those crises I often wondered what would happen next, but we always got through it," he said. Sidey also said that no matter what the crisis, we as Americans must always keep our sense of humor. "We can’t give up our lifestyle; we can’t give up our laughter and all that we cherish."
He relayed several comical accounts of past presidents and the examples they set of maintaining their lighthearted side even in times of trouble.
Turning serious, Sidey said, "If I had to guess I’d say there’s an 80 to 20 or 70 to 30 percent chance that we will go to war. I recall a quote: ‘To keep peace in this world there are times you must go to the brink of war, and you must mean it.’ And, this man means it."
Sidey added, "But maybe that’s the only way you see some change in the end."
In closing he credited the cattle industry. "You folks are a huge part of this country. Maybe not in numbers, but just by being on the land. You sustain freedom in so many ways – through your independence, individuality, and endurance. The best stewards are those people who live on the land."
He also offered this advice, "In preserving freedom hang together. You mean so much to this nation. March on as we have before. Keep your eye on the flag and freedom."

—- by Kindra Gordon

General Session Energizes Convention Goers

Attendees at the 2003 Cattle Industry Convention were treated to a rousing opening general session that offered an update on many successes occurring within the beef industry. In addition to keynote speaker Hugh Sidey, highlights included a question and answer session with NCBA chief executive officer Terry Stokes as well as comments from several of the beef industry’s leadership. An update on available new beef products was also presented.

Current NCBA president Wythe Willey told the audience, "We’re an effective organization, and our industry is doing well."
Chairman of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board Dee Lacey reported on the beef checkoff, saying, "There is a tremendous amount of producer support for the checkoff program."

But, she added that communication gaps still exist. "Many people don’t realize that through checkoff dollars our industry is also able to conduct research in beef safety, develop important relationships with health organizations and many other beneficial activities," she said.

One of the newer efforts by the CBB is to develop more partnerships with retailers and food industry to promote beef, according to Lacey. "This helps your checkoff dollar go farther," she said.

NCBA President-elect Eric Davis, concluded the session by encouraging members to be active during the convention. "We are here for a reason: To set policy and programs for the coming year. You’re here to be a part of it."

Andy Tucker, chairman-elect of the CBB added that attendees should take the enthusiasm and pride stirred up during the session into the meetings during the week. "And then remember you represent the folks back home, so also be sure to take what you learn back to them."

—- by Kindra Gordon

Audio File

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