OOH …Here’s One Thing

Heros

by Jim Johnsen,
Managing Director,  Johnsen, Fretty & Company

David Bowie – Heroes (song never gets old!)

Folks this week, we interrupt this normally scheduled broadcast to bring you something special.  I happened to be at the OACNY meeting this past week, and was bummed to learn that Matt Duddy was stepping down.  To show you all what a special guy Matt is, he has agreed to let me re-run his resignation letter.  I think the letter speaks for itself, for Matt and hopefully for the great things Matt is yet destined to accomplish.  Here it is (note Lou Holtz quotes are his): “If What you did yesterday seems big, you haven’t done anything today” Lou Holtz

We are excited that the OACNY annual meeting is in person once again this year.  The value of the annual gathering goes far beyond the working session, perhaps building a deeper understanding, mutual respect and long-standing friendships/partnerships over dinner, beverages, and sidebars.

2023 has been relatively quiet for our membership.  There has not been any action of material consequence in New York related to our industry, which can be good or bad, depending on your perspective.  There are no major oppositions or threats to the OOH landscape in New York, while taxation, amortization and removals receive headlines in other states, as you see in the Outdoor Voice.

Looking back at the theme, tone and content of our October 2022 meeting, both New York and the OACNY were primed for “all things Cannabis” to erupt in 2023.  Sadly, that front remains dormant.  The dysfunction in NY revolving around Cannabis is exhausting.  The Cannabis industry is revving its engine but stuck in the garage.  Meanwhile, your OACNY continues to monitor the landscape and actively seeks avenues for our members to capitalize on the emergence of this sector.

Switching gears, as we prepared for our annual meeting, I informed John Graziano (CHMS) and the Nomination Committee that I will be stepping down from the Presidency at the conclusion of our fiscal year.   I’ll remain in service as the President of the OAFNY to ensure continuity with our partners at the GTSC in securing annual grant.  My role and focus with Lamar have changed.  It is in the Association’s best interest to have a President that is fully engaged and present to represent our interests.  As we change the guard, the Association is extremely healthy in terms of membership, support and finances.

I would like to thank our membership for the tremendous support and collaboration over the years.  I’ve had the distinct pleasure of serving as an officer of the OACNY, dating back to September 1999 when I was “drafted” as the Associations Secretary/Treasurer a few days after moving to Albany.  Serving as the Secretary/Treasurer and President of the OACNY has been an unanticipated, undeserved and wonderful privilege.  I would also like to thank Dave Feldman, George Merovich, and John Graziano for their support, leadership, and friendship for nearly a quarter century.  I’m proud of the work and milestones we have accomplished, but the work is not done!

One last inspirational quote from Sweet Lou, as I highly doubt the next President’s corner will be as intent on highlighting his wisdom:  “Remember, every day some ordinary person does something extraordinary.  Today, it’s your turn.”  Lou Holtz”

Thanks Matt…and long may you run!

ps – And I can’t let Matt have all the fun with quotes.  I will leave you with this one:
“Without courage we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can’t be kind, true, merciful, generous, or honest.”  Author Unknown. 

Wishing you a good week.

jfco.com
Securities transacted through StillPoint Capital Member firm FINRA/SiPC

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