A bonus to serving as the president of ASA is I’ve been able to travel the country, speaking to distributors from many different geographic regions and talking to the manufacturers who serve them. On one hand, it’s very reaffirming to see the dedication and determination of the people who make up our great industry. On the other, seeing how the country’s economic situation and government climate are affecting ASA’s members is distressing. Asyournational trade association, ASA has been working tirelessly on behalf of our interests in Washington, D.C. However, no matter how many coalitions ASA participates in, how much legislation it champions, or how diligently it lobbies, it can’t do it without support -yoursupport.
Election Day is now weeks away. There has never been a greater need for ASA members to vote and inspire those around you to vote as well. Employees, friends, family - everyone whose lives are touched by the welfare of your business needs to understand why their votes matter. A vote for a smaller, less-intrusive government that is pro-business and fiscally responsible is a vote in support of your company and the future of our country’s economic well-being.
If there’s anything I’ve learned in running a business during the last 18 months it’s that we need to change direction in Washington, D.C. We run the budgets in our businesses and our families within our means. We need government leaders who do the same with the national budget. Priorities should be placed on decisions that promote our accomplishments and generosity as a country. The good of the hard-working Americans who are the fabric of this society must be put ahead of election concerns or political correctness.
We are blessed that the United States has the strength and principles of our Constitution by which we are guided and provided rights that other nations only dream to achieve someday. Many, many men and women have sacrificed their lives in the name of freedom and in defense of these rights. We honor what they fought for - yesterday, today and in the future - when we exercise our right to elect our leaders and direct our nation’s future.
ASA is the voice of the industry. We will continue our efforts to establish a full-time presence in Washington, D.C., to ensure that the PHCP and PVF industry is on the front lines, addressing issues and promoting positive legislation and regulatory common sense. Now, follow ASA’s lead and be the voice of your company.
It’s time to spread the word. Tell everyone you know why this is such an important year to vote. Tell them about the difference your business makes through the people it employs, the contributions it makes to the community and the industry it supports. Encourage them to recall the words we all learned as children and consider what it means to them today:I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.Then, ask them to vote in November and set the path for a prosperous America.
Frank Nisonger
Slakey Brothers
