The Headquarters' Range: August 2026

If you’ve ever gathered a big bunch of headstrong cattle with just a small but capable crew, you know there’s a moment when the big gate swings shut, that everyone lets out a sigh of relief for getting them penned. The hard part is over—or so it seems. In reality, it’s just when the next job begins.

Our annual convention is much the same.

For months, our staff and volunteer leaders spend countless hours preparing for those few days together. We plan meetings, coordinate speakers, work with sponsors and exhibitors, prepare educational programs, organize the trade show, line up awards, communicate with members, and solve hundreds of little challenges that no one ever sees. Then, in what feels like the blink of an eye, convention comes and goes.

This year’s convention was another reminder of what makes the Florida Cattlemen’s Association so special. The fellowship was second to none. Old friends reconnected. New members got involved. Important policy discussions took place. Industry partners showcased new ideas and technologies. Our youth participated, our volunteers stepped up, and together we celebrated an industry and a way of life that means so much to all of us.

Thank you to everyone who attended, sponsored, exhibited, volunteered, and supported our association. Events like this don’t happen because of one person or one staff member—they happen because so many people believe in the mission of FCA and are willing to invest their time, talent, and resources.

Of course, once the last trailer pulls away and the final boxes are unpacked, the work isn’t over.

In many ways, it’s just beginning.

The ideas shared during committee meetings become action items. The priorities established by our leadership become legislative objectives. Relationships built over coffee or at the trade show become partnerships that strengthen our industry. Staff begins reviewing evaluations, settling accounts, planning improvements, and preparing for the next event on the calendar. Before long, we’re already looking ahead to fall and year end quarterly meetings, political elections, Leadership Academy sessions, Foundation activities, Cattle Enhancement Board projects, ongoing government affairs work, and everything else that keeps this association moving forward.

That’s one of the things I’ve come to appreciate most about serving as your Executive Vice President. While conventions and meetings are the milestones everyone sees, the real work happens every day in between. It’s answering members’ questions, advocating for ranchers, supporting county associations, working with policymakers, communicating our industry’s story, and making sure FCA remains a strong voice for Florida’s cattle producers.

That work is made possible because of the trust you place in us and because of the dedicated volunteer leaders who give so generously of their time.

As we settle back into our daily routines, I hope you’ll stay engaged. Attend your county meetings. Serve on a committee. Reach out with ideas. Invite someone new to become a member. Every one of us has a role to play in ensuring that Florida’s cattle industry remains strong for generations to come.

Convention may be behind us, but the mission continues.

And here at headquarters, we’re already hard at work on what’s next.

-Dusty Holley

Executive Vice President