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Manitoba Beef Producers 38TH Annual General Meeting A Success

 
While recognizing the challenges on the horizon, there was optimism about the year ahead at the 38th Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) Annual General Meeting Feb. 2-3 in Brandon.
 
The theme for the 38th AGM was Sharing Our Story as the industry continues to work on maintaining public trust by focusing on the great work being done by producers in areas such as the environment and animal welfare. General Manager Brian Lemon said the association’s goal was to help producers understand the important role they play in that area and provide them with ideas and tools to help them share their story.
 
“We were fortunate to have excellent speakers who talked about the important role that producers play in telling the industry’s story,” Lemon said. “The message throughout the two days was if we don’t tell our story, someone else will and we might not like what they are saying. I think that hit home with our members and, hopefully, has encouraged many of them to think about sharing their story.”
 
Lemon noted attendance for the AGM was strong with more than 200 people attending the two-day event, which also included resolutions debate on topics ranging from carbon policies to beef grading, and a sold-out trade show.
 
“We were encouraged to see the level of interest and engagement from the industry. We are aware that prices are not where we would like to see them and there are challenges to the industry such as water management, predation and trade, but there was a sense of optimism at the meeting. I think that was reflected not only in the discussions we had with members but also in the attendance numbers.”
 
A new executive was elected during a meeting of MBP’s 14 directors Feb. 2. District 13 Director Ben Fox was elected as president by his fellow directors. Three incumbent members maintained their positions as Ramona Blyth and Tom Teichroeb will continue as vice-president and second vice-president respectively, with Peter Penner as treasurer. Dianne Riding will replace Fox as secretary.
 
Speaking at the conclusion of the AGM, Fox thanked his fellow board members for placing their trust and confidence in him and thanked his family for their support as he takes on this role. Fox also paid homage to the men and women who formed the association over 40 years ago and said MBP will continue to work towards those same ideals.
 
“Their belief was to make the beef industry stronger in Manitoba by allowing producers to make their own choices; to raise and feed and market their cattle unencumbered by ordinance and legislation and regulation. This group had the vision, the fortitude and the dedication to see it through,” Fox said. “There were battles but they were victorious in delivering this organization we get to enjoy today. It’s this foresight and this dedication that I hope we can capture over the next few years and help deliver and direct a Manitoba beef industry that is the strongest in the country.
 
“There will be struggles and trials in the coming months but I am excited about these challenges and willing to meet them head on.”
 
Fox also recognized outgoing President Heinz Reimer, who served in that role for three years and will remain on the board for one year before retiring.
 
“Heinz serves on numerous national boards for MBP and he has been a true workhorse for this organization. I’m glad that I am going to have you to rely on for the next year. I appreciate having the opportunity to work with you and look forward to carrying on that relationship.”
 
Source : Manitoba Beef Producers

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