The Rumors Are Indeed True

An inordinate number of rumors began flying around at the Phoenix meeting regarding future management of FEMA. Well, we’re here to tell you that, in fact, most of them were true.

After more than 40 years with FEMA, Executive Vice President Bob Schnell will be retiring Dec. 31, 2009 and, when asked what he plans to do in his retirement, he simply answers, “Actively encourage wife Marcie to maintain a work ethic to keep me living in the style to which I’d like to become accustomed.”

On Jan. 1, 2010, Vice President Vernon Schmidt will step up to become the Executive Vice President and lead this organization through the 21st century. Vernon has played an integral role in the association’s opposition to what we believe is unfair state dealer contract law with regards to small farm equipment manufacturers. He is also the “backbone” of FEMA’s excellent website.

We’d like to say that an Irishman, Canadian or Englishman will be taking over the reins, but it’s just one German to another.

All kidding aside, we know that FEMA will be in good hands with an experienced leader who has been part of FEMA’s management team for 14 years. Congratulations Vernon.