<p><strong>LAS VEGAS, NV</strong> - The National Grocers Association 2012 Show has kicked off in Las Vegas with a crowd of over 1400 independent grocers, wholesalers and industry partners in attendance, according to a press release. The event opened with a speech by former U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates. Also at the opening session, was the introduction of N.G.A.'s new and returning board members.<hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"> In his speech, Secretary Gates shared his thoughts and reactions on the state of domestic and international affairs and policy issues. His concerns included the state of political discourse as well as the current events that affect the condition of the nation's governmental functions. Secretary Gates, stated, "The inability of so many of our political leaders today to step out of their ideological cocoons, or offend their most partisan supporters, has become a real threat to America's future." He continues, "As a result of these and other polarizing factors, the foundation of our political system is not holding."<hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"> Along with the Secretary's speech, seven new board members and a new Chairman were welcomed at the opening session. Joseph Sheridan, President and COO of Wakefern Foods, Inc. based in Keasbey, NJ, was introduced as the new Chairman for N.G.A. The industry veteran has been with the food cooperative for 35 years, and since 1996, has served as Executive Vice President. Joseph Sheridan, stated, "I look forward to helping N.G.A. continue its focus to give entrepreneurs and independent retailers the necessary tools to succeed in a competitive marketplace." He continued, "Independent grocers need a strong, effective voice in Washington and N.G.A. is important to our industry in so elected leaders understand our issues and respond to our concerns."<hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"> The new chairman succeeds Chris Coborn, President and CEO of Coborn's Inc. N.G.A. President and CEO, Peter Larkin, stated, "Chris has served as chairman during an important time in our trade association's history." Mr. Larkin continued, "Because of his leadership and passion, we have seen many accomplishments and launched several initiatives that are providing greater value to our members."<hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"> New board members announced include: Marcy LeBlanc, President and CEO of LeBlanc's Food Stores in Gonzales, LA; Erick Taylor, President and CEO of Pyramid Foods RPCS, Inc. in Springfield, MO; Jimmy Wright, President of Wrights Markets in Opelika, AL; David D'Arezzo, Senior Vice President, COO of The Grocers Supply Company, Inc. in Houston, TX; Mike Stolarz, President and COO of Allegiance Retail Services, LLC in Iselin, NJ; Lisa Walsh, PepsiCo, Inc., headquartered in Purchase, NY and Linda Doherty, President of the New Jersey Food Council in Trenton, NJ.</p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><p>www.nationalgrocers.org</p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding">
