Howdy friends and neighbors. Well, I just returned from the 67th annual convention of the state’s largest farm and ranch organization, of the highest noble federation, Oklahoma’s own, Farm Bureau. While there was no streaking (or none reported anyway) or mooning citations from atop the Cox Convention Center, or alleged Harley Davidson or John Deeres on the hotel high dive, (I just love Ray Stevens’ song “Shiners Convention”) there was definitely plenty of action to keep me from thinking about how flat my backside was getting from convention chairs or just how early I was going to have to get up the next morning.
Elections were held, food was consumed, policy was adopted, ice-cream was eaten, speeches were made, awards were handed out, coffee and aspirin were downed, winners were crowned, shirt collars were tugged, laughs and tears were let out, more food was consumed. Reports were critiqued, jokes were played, Tums were in demand, and then it was time for dinner. We were entertained, informed, and educated. Oh, then we ate some more. But most important, old friends re-united and friendships for life were given a place to start.
Sometimes we all agreed, sometimes we just agreed to disagree, but the united voice of Agriculture will be strong! We took a look back at the generations that led before while babies played in the aisles. There was no lack of love for our Lord, our country, our state, our farms and ranches or our neighbors.
It’s going to be a short column this week because I’m flat wore out. But, when the sun peaks over the Eastern horizon, my batteries will be fully charged as I head out the door to see the farm that God has loaned me.
I’m Monte Tucker, and that’s what’s under my “been there, done that, 67th Annual Convention of Oklahoma Farm Bureau, t-shirt, calculator, screw-driver, coffee mug, lapel pin, Koozey, flashlight, pocket knife, hotel towel and shower cap, 21 pounds of trade show pamphlets, and hat.” But, I’m still upset that I didn’t win a door prize!
