ANNOUNCEMENTS

 As the pandemic has impacted all of us, I sincerely hope and pray each of you are still able to enjoy this Holiday season. Personally, I have so much to be thankful for and, to all my friends and colleagues, I wanted to share with you my intention to retire at the end of the year. While appreciative of all the support, after 30 years of public service, the time is right for me. I regret not being able to complete my current term as President, but NCARCA is in very good and capable hands. 

Our Vice-President Clai Martin will assume Presidential responsibilities and serve the remainder of my term. Clai is one of our most experienced and tenured Board members and will do an exceptional job. As we had to cancel the 2020 Conference, two other Executive Officer positions will be filled on an interim basis, until we can present official nominations to and receive confirmation votes from our full membership at the next Conference. I am proud to announce that Donna Hatcher has agreed to continue as Treasurer and, with Nancy Ryan’s retirement, Karen Rogers has graciously accepted the Secretarial duties.  I would additionally like to encourage any person interested in serving on the NCARCA Board, go to the “Volunteer” section of the website.

In conclusion, thank you all for your support of me and, most importantly, your support and participation in the NCARCA. In my 30 years in Animal Control, I have witnessed an incredible and positive evolution in the quality and professionalism displayed in both field and shelter operations. I firmly believe NCARCA has played a vital role in advancing training and advocacy opportunities towards the mission of improving animal service delivery. While often difficult and rarely recognized or appreciated as essential, Animal Control is a noble calling. I am proud of you who have answered the call and applaud your efforts.

Best wishes and may God bless you all,

Junior Simmons