November 2026 President's Message
As I look over this past month’s calendar, I am amazed at the different opportunities, events, issues and outreach that your FCA is involved in. Not to mention all of the meetings that I’ve attended. Coming from someone who likes to spend most of their time outside the office, it has certainly been an adjustment.
After we completed our highly successful first Quarterly of the year in Kissimmee, it has been nonstop for me and the FCA staff. The following week Dusty, President-Elect Yoder and I did our yearly evaluation and selection of the 13th FCLA class. This is the second time I’ve been involved and let me tell you, the applicants are impressive. Typically we are only able to take approximately half those that apply for the twelve spots. Please keep seeking out those young leaders in your community to participate in this great leadership program.
Soon after, Breely and I attended a field day and dinner with the U.S. Meat Export Federation hosted by former NCBA and FCA President Marty Smith and his family. We spent time with U.S. beef importers from Saudi Arabia, which allowed great insight into a sector of the industry that I am admittedly very naïve to: International Trade.
The following morning myself, Breely, Dusty Holley and FCA Foundation Chairman Henry Kempfer had the opportunity to meet with the University of Florida’s newest President, Dr. Stuart Bell. This was a refreshing visit and I feel like we are in a good place with the University moving forward and listening to our concerns.
Later that afternoon I had the privilege of judging the first North Florida Commercial Heifer Pen Show and Sale. This event was a huge success and I feel like represents our industry in true fashion. There were many impressive show projects but the kids were the most impressive part, as they took real ownership in this event. I had the honor the following day to address the crowd gathered for the sale. The heifers sold for very high prices showing the support for these youth and the show’s overall concept. On Saturday evening we joined the Levy County Cattlemen for their annual Cattlemen’s Night Out. A great time was had by all, supporting our industry and raising money for Levy County.
In early October, the legislative committee along with Sam Ard and several others, attended the Republican Victory dinner held at SeaWorld. It was truly a “Who’s Who” of the Republican Party here in Florida. We were honored to have Ag Commissioner and friend Wilton Simpson sit with us throughout this event. It was very insightful as the different candidates gave speeches in front of the home crowd.
The following week I was joined by Kate Ramsey, the newest addition to the FCA staff, in Marion County for their annual dinner and election of officers. We are excited to have Kate on board as Director of Membership and Strategic Partnerships. Once again, Dr. Brent Sellers addressed the group on the current status of Mealy Bug infestations statewide.
District 4 held its District Meeting with county presidents and state directors from the area at Bull Hammock Ranch. Thank you for coming out in a big way for those who attended and a special thanks to District 4 Rep Travis Brown for setting the meeting. We will continue to have these meetings and I would encourage you to attend these if possible.
Lastly, I was able to visit Circle F Farms’ Production Sale on Oct 9 & 10. Circle F has been a longtime donor to our COW PAC. They had a very impressive group of cattle to kick off the sale season. Thank you, Mr. Woody Folsom, for the hospitality and continued support.
As a reminder, please verse yourselves on the upcoming election. There are numerous candidates and amendments that need our attention and support.
Please be sure to join us next month on December 11 in my hometown of Okeechobee, Florida, for our one-day Year-End Quarterly.
I look forward to seeing everyone on my travels and please always remember to remain “Keepers of His Land.”
God Bless,
John Williamson
