For Immediate Release                                             
Feb. 27, 2006

For Information:  Burt Rutherford    (800) 299-8232

McDonald Retires From TCFA

Richard McDonald , longtime president and CEO of the Texas Cattle Feeders Association, is retiring after a 32-year career with TCFA. 

McDonald joined the TCFA staff in 1974 as executive director and in 1988 was appointed as the chief executive of the association.  McDonald graduated from Texas A&M University with a bachelor's degree in animal science and earned a master's degree and Ph.D. from Louisiana State University , 

"It is almost impossible to define the positive impact that Richard has had, not just on TCFA and its members, but on the entire beef industry," said John Gillcrist , TCFA chairman.  "He has been a steady, consistent and hard-working leader for cattle feeders and his influence and imprint on the cattle industry will remain for years."

Among his many victories on behalf of cattle feeders over the years, McDonald was instrumental in helping pass a number of tax-relief measures for cattlemen, obtaining clear title and prompt payment legislation for ag producers and has worked closely with other beef organizations to develop coalitions to obtain important legislative victories in Austin and Washington D.C.

          "Perhaps more than anything else, however," Gillcrist said, "Richard will be remembered for his ability to analyze an issue and see not only its immediate ramifications, but its long-term potential to affect cattlemen.  TCFA's policy positions and many of our legislative and industry triumphs resulted from Richard's leadership, guidance and unerring understanding of issues." 

Ross Wilson , a 21-year TCFA veteran, has been named president and CEO.  Wilson assumes his duties March 1, 2006 .