June 2025 President's Message

Hello everyone!

Every past president I’ve spoken to as told me that this year would go by fast, and they couldn’t have been more right. My time as FCA President has been one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had and it’s hard to believe I’m already writing my last message. My family and I have traveled all over this great state, and I’ve had the opportunity to shake many new hands. It’s comforting to know there are so many like-minded people advocating for Florida’s Cattle Industry, and that is a large part of what makes this Association so great.

I’ve covered many miles traveling this year, but my thank you list may be longer. While I can’t mention everyone in this message, I want you to know that my sincerest thanks goes out to everyone who has had a hand in making this a great year.

I’ll start with our amazing staff that are doing great work behind the scenes to keep this association strong. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with our staff this year and am impressed with how much our small but mighty workforce can accomplish. Mr. Handley surprised us with his retirement announcement after 27 years of steadfast service, and while I didn’t expect to take on the task of hiring his successors, I’m honored to have been a part of this transition.

I have had strong support of my fellow officers this year. This group of men have a tremendous moral compass and have been there to help through three hurricanes, a staff transition, and are always ready to step up when I couldn’t be in two places at once. I couldn’t be more excited to see the direction these gentlemen lead the FCA in the coming years, I know President-Elect Rick Moyer is ready to hit the Ground running this month.

This year I wanted to focus on membership, and I want to thank Membership Chair, Tom Bryant, and At Large Director, Dan Smith, for their dedication to membership growth this year. I look forward to recognizing our “Just Ask” membership recruiters at convention.

My dear friend and past president, Pat Durden, has been a huge help this year. Pat and Phebee jumped in to help wherever it was needed, expecting nothing in return. In addition to being a supportive friend to me, Pat has been an asset for the FCA in Tallahassee this year.

I have also had the strong support of my family this year who have been by my side during my travels, or back at home picking up the slack I my absence. I had the best county meeting chauffeur that anyone could ask for in my dad this year, and the best shotgun rider, cheerleader, and support system in my beautiful, loving wife Beth.

I will look back on this year forever grateful. I feel that I have gotten more out of this year than I could have possibly given. I’m looking forward to staying involved and engaged in the years to come. The association is in a good place, and I encourage everyone to keep up the good work and support Rick, the Executive Committee and FCA staff as we move into a new membership year. Our membership has been important since the establishment of the FCA in 1934, but I believe it is more important now than ever.

Continue to stay Loyal to the Land.

Sincerely Honored,

Dale Carlton