The date is May 21^st, and it’s a great day! Why you ask? It’s because three major things have successfully culminated within the last 30 days. I’m happy! And if I’m happy, that means that those around me are happier too!

            First of all, as I currently reside as president of the American-International Charolais Association, I am very proud to say that on April 25, we secured the services of a very talented young man, Brett Spader, as our new Executive Vice President. We are very fortunate to have him, as his pedigree in the seedstock industry is exceptional, with stops including Angus Media, DV Auction, and most recently as co-owner in Livestock Launch, a digital marketing company specializing on the livestock industry. Brett’s duties began on May 13^th. I am very excited to see what the future holds in store.

            Secondly, today marks the official announcement that Risk Strategies, a leading international specialty insurance brokerage and risk management firm, has acquired Silveus Insurance Group, Inc. As many of you know, Silveus has long since been the parent company for our crop and livestock insurance customers. It is the largest independent specialty provider for crop insurance. “We help clients succeed through a unique combination of focused expertise, innovation, and broad, entrepreneurial collaboration,” said John Scroope, national director of Retail Operations, Risk Strategies.

            And finally, last but certainly not least, our one and only child Shelbi, has married Ben Simonds on May 18^th in San Antonio. The wedding was a wonderful celebration to which I credit my beautiful wife Lauren and of course my beautiful and incredibly talented daughter, who makes her living as a major event coordinator for Emerson Collective, a company that invests in entrepreneurs and innovators.

            So, as you can see, we have had quite a few things on our plate the last 30 days. But it’s really nice when everything goes as planned. I’m grateful to have it all behind us, and even more grateful to add Ben as a new member to the family.