As I write this edition of John’s jottings, we have just finished another successful NEAFA Annual Meeting, coupled with a strong lobby effort of New York legislators. The annual meeting is one of my favorite highlights of the year as it brings together many members, friends and elected officials. While there were many highlights, I would like to take the time to focus on a few memorable ones.
Nearly thirty people joined us Tuesday morning for our yearly collaborative lobby effort. NEAFA welcomed partners from Pro-Dairy, Farm Viability Institute and FarmNet just to name a few. Combined, our joint views on the current needs of agriculture in New York had in a positive effect on our lobbying efforts. Tuesday evening, we welcomed several elected and appointed officials, including NY Assemblyman Brian Miller, NY Assemblyman Steven Hawley, and NY Commission of Agriculture & Markets, Richard Ball. The highlight of the evening was honoring and giving thanks to special longtime friends, NY Assemblyman Cliff Crouch, and NY State Senator James Seward. Rick Zimmerman and I had the pleasure of making these presentations. Many folks went off to dinner after our reception and enjoyed a night out and met later at the Hospitality Suite for further enjoyment.
Wednesday morning began with traditions. Our early bird prizes were followed by the NEAFA Annual Business Meeting. As has been the tradition for several years, we were treated to the NYS FFA State Officer Team presenting their “Opening Ceremony.” It is always moving to see these young people in fine form. During the business meeting we reelected NEAFA Board Members Jenny Mills, Greg McCulloch and Mark Anderson, and welcomed our newest board member Michael Howlett. Our Wednesday speakers gave us their insights into the industry and made us pause and think outside the box of our daily routine. Delaney Howell, Ag TV personality from the mid-west, did the MC duties and offered an insightful recap of the day during her keynote remarks.
During the closing luncheon, it was our pleasure to honor long time member of the northeast feed industry and most recent CEO of AFIA, Joel Newman with the distinguished service award. We also recognized retiring board member Ryan James for his service. Following the lunch, the NEAFA Board met briefly, and among other items of business, reelected NEAFA Secretary Lon Stephens, and NEAFA Treasurer Barry Baetz.
There are many great activities coming up. By the time you read this, we will announce the second annual NEAFA NYS FFA Scholarship Recipients, during a Facebook live edition at the NY Farm Show. In March, we’re taking part in New England dairy nutrition conferences in Connecticut and Maine. In April, we will hold a Board Meeting, before the start of the Herd Health Conference April 6th & 7th in Syracuse. NEAFA has cosponsored this Conference along with Pro-Dairy for many years. Throughout the spring, many standing committee meetings will also take place. Want to join in on these important discussions about different aspects of our industry? Let us know if you’d like to serve. In June, NEAFA will again hold the Golf for Good Works Tournament at the Turning Stone Golf Course June 28th. In July we will go through a strategic planning process.
As I close, two things come to mind. First, to all our members, THANK YOU. If you’re not currently a member, consider signing up and joining today. This organization continues to grow and serve the agribusiness & feed communities, and with your help we can expand our knowledge base as well as give a stronger voice to the needs of the agriculture in the northeast. Which brings me to the second thing on my mind. For our members, it’s time to get involved. Let us know how you’d like to be more engaged in the NEAFA Committees or other areas. There’s lots to do, so come join in today! Until next time, John’s Jottings over and out.