Thanks to the farmers, the ranchers and hobbyists

Who make us a living and keep us the jolliest.

Thanks to the bankers and others who support us

And to all our customers who give us their trust.

Thanks to the manufacturers whose iron we sell

And all of their reps who treat us so swell.

Thanks to the companies who feel our concerns

And help us all out with better floorplan terms.

Thanks to the ones who process our warranties

With all of the explanations for their enormities.

Thanks to the parts guys who keep all the machines running

And process the back orders with excuses so cunning.

Thanks to truckers who deliver the goods for which we are waiting

Usually with tires that all need reinflating.   

Thanks to the publications who write about our industry

And keep our chins up by avoiding most things abysmally. 

Thanks to our wives who seldom us see

Unless when at home there is the greater calamity.

Thanks for caller ID that pops up on our phones

To lessen the time spent playing Sherlock Homes.

Thanks for great cooks who at this season are fantastic

And for clothes that stretch, thanks to elastic.

We are thankful for Pilgrims who to give thanks they did pause

And then remind us all, get busy and start shopping for old Santa Claus.

Finally we are thankful for our shop, parts and our sales

And customers who wear jeans, not white ties and tails.

Equipment Dealer Tips, Tales & Takeaways is brought to you by NAEDA.

The North American Equipment Dealers Association (NAEDA) is a non-profit trade organization representing retail dealers in the outdoor power, agricultural, construction, industrial, forestry, lawn and garden, and turf equipment industries. In today’s complex, high-stakes environment, protection goes beyond policy; it requires a strong, informed voice. NAEDA is that voice. We know the industry, understand its challenges, and stand ready when the unexpected strikes. By strengthening dealer–manufacturer relationships and advocating for fair, forward-thinking policies, NAEDA ensures members are heard, protected, and supported. One Unified Voice: Advocating. Defending. Protecting. The voice you trust. The support you need.

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Told from the perspective of an in-the-trenches owner/operator — Tim Brannon of B&G Equipment, Paris, Tenn. — Equipment Dealer Tips, Tales & Takeaways shares knowledge, experiences and tips/lessons with fellow rural equipment dealerships throughout North America. Covering all aspects required of an equipment dealership general manager, Brannon will inform, entertain and provide a teachable moment for current — and future — leaders within equipment dealerships.

Check out more of Tim Brannon's Blogs here!