GAINESVILLE, Ga. -- Abit Massey, a man synonymous with Georgia's poultry industry, will start a new chapter of his life beginning next year.
Massey, who has been at the helm of the Georgia Poultry Federation for more than 48 years, will become the group's president emeritus on Jan. 1, 2009, and will continue working with the staff in the promotion of the state's important poultry industry.
This announcement came during GPF's annual spring meeting at Brasstown Valley on April 26.
"I have been fortunate to work for and serve an industry that I'm proud of and that is a major part of the economy of Georgia," Massey said. "To all those from the poultry industry, allied companies, government, legislature, universities and others who have assisted, I am grateful."
Massey, however, makes it known that this is not a retirement, and he will continue to be active with the federation's activities.
"This job is one that I love, and except for my grandchildren, the federation also has been my major hobby," he said. "While I look forward to the different status I would be sad and would second guess my earlier decision, if I did not have the opportunity of staying active for the federation and the poultry industry."
Mike Giles, who is currently GPF's senior vice president, will succeed Massey as the group's president on Jan. 1.
"I am very excited and honored to be allowed to serve an organization that has such a rich history of accomplishments, and I look forward to continuing that tradition with the support of federation members, university partners and our poultry allies in local, state and federal governments," Giles said.
Before joining GPF in 2000, Giles gained marketing experience with his roles at the University of Georgia; and governmental experience with the eight years he spent working with former U.S. Sen. Sam Nunn.
"In 2000, Mike started out working for me, then as time went by and he became the point man on several important projects, sometimes he worked for me and sometimes I worked for him -- but most of the time we work in tandem," Massey said. "He now will take the lead on most endeavors, but I will continue to be available as needed and will offer input as appropriate."
Massey also expressed his thanks to the service of federation executive assistants Beverly Cronan, who has been with GPF for 39 years; and Claudette Aycock, who has been with the group for 25 years.
"I am very proud of the progress and accomplishments of the strong team of staff and volunteers . . . and I will continue to work with Mike and the officers and directors to continue the tradition and take it to a new level," Massey said.
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