Gone Before You Know It!

All of my life, I have heard how time seems to pass more quickly the older you get. I’ve also heard that time flies when you’re having fun. Looking back over 2007 with those sayings in mind, it seems as though I took a nap, woke up and the year of my NUCA presidency was gone. What remains, however, are many wonderful memories that I will cherish forever.

Foremost, I will remember my travels across the country, visiting places I had never seen before and seeing NUCA as never before. I was able to visit most of our chapters, where I was treated to hospitality reserved for royalty. Seeing them at the grass roots level, I have a newfound respect for the work they do for the utility construction industry, not only on behalf of their regions, but also on behalf of the national organization.

For example, depending on the geographic area, there are different
issues — dust control in the desert, immigration in the southwest, “hometown democracy” (public participation in land use planning/zoning) in the southeast and utility location up north. What the different areas have in common, however, is a strong commitment to working together to tackle the issues head-on. The other thing chapters have in common is the excellence of their leaders and the commitment of their members. I can honestly say that everywhere I went, I heard nothing but positive words from members about their Executive Directors and volunteer leaders and from the Executive
Directors and leaders about their members. It was truly exciting to learn that all of NUCA’s chapters are in good hands.

It seems that every recent NUCA president has struck a theme at the beginning of his or her tenure and touched upon it in nearly every message. Looking back over my messages, I see that I’ve talked a lot about the future — specifically the dreams, vision, active involvement, positive energy and team spirit needed to get us to where we want to be when we “grow up.” As your 2007 president, I’ve seen firsthand that we have all that and more, so I don’t see how we can go wrong.

Borrowing some words from Bob Hope’s signature song, “Thanks for the memories.” It has been both a pleasure and privilege to serve as your President. And one final word for President-Elect Terry Dillon: Be prepared for the fastest year of your life!

Regards,
   James King