Editor’s Note The Creation of SSLA

Editor’s Note

With this issue of Discover Llamas magazine, we celebrate the thirtieth Anniversary of the Southern States Llama Association (SSLA). It’s hard to believe we are that old. To our members who have been around since the beginning or nearly the beginning, I salute you. There have been many changes in the llama industry over that time. But we, as an organization, have endured. That says a lot about the SSLA because there are very few organizations that are able to say that. Thanks to our founders for giving us a strong foundation and for our continuing membership keeping us one of the strongest camelid organizations in the country.

Take the time to enjoy some of the thoughts and memories of four of our original members in the first four articles. In addition, I hope you also enjoy those articles thereafter on many topics including: packing, youth, fiber, therapy animals, carting, llama behavior, avoiding plant poisoning, paddock pointers, husbandry and even a weekend project for all of you handy folks out there.

I would like to extend my appreciation to all of those who contributed by writing articles, taking photos, being on the committee and our advertisers . And special thanks to Scott Wilson, Karen Pihera, Liam Munroe, Tracy Pearson, Steph Pride, Tom Quinlan and Shay Stratford for their “behind the scenes” help, for which I am grateful.

Please thank and patronize our advertizers. Without them this publication would not be possible. And if you’re already a member of SSLA, volunteer for something, be on a committee, run for the Board, or help out at shows and events. If you aren’t a member yet, I encourage you to join - you’ll be glad you did. Your membership will make us even stronger.