Under the Wire

I am not a big “Banquet Goer," however one banquet my family attends is the Brush Area Chamber of Commerce Ag Appreciation dinner. It is the one get-together that draws together just about every rancher and farmer in the entire area. They always put together an interesting program, vying for the attention with one thing in common with everyone else in attendance. Sometimes they bring entertainment in with guest speakers or a comedian or other forms of information.

They accomplish their goal nicely I might add!

This year Lorrie Boyer brought together a panel of area Ag people who shared insights into their particular area of Ag development, amazing information and showcased how creative Rural Americans can be. As they each shared their stories it reminded me of how resilient and creative Agriculture families are.

Sue and I, along with son David and wife Kathy, try to never miss this banquet. Where else could we encounter so many with so much in common?

One notable event this year was the announcement of the first ever recipient of the Brush Area Chamber of Commerce “Agriculturist of the Year” award. With so many well established and deserving ranchers and farmers in attendance, the winner was an emotional selection for us. Sue and I were the recipients! We were in shock at the time and very honored!

When I woke the next morning and saw the beautiful award sitting on our kitchen counter, I was nearly moved to tears by that honor knowing there were so many equally deserving folks out there.

There truly are not words that can express my surprise and gratitude to that group of folks who honored us!

Many of you will read this in our area newspapers, so to you all, THANK YOU for the nicest honor we have ever experienced!

Gary and Sue Hodgson