The Madison County Farm Bureau held their annual business meeting recently at Micieli’s in Canastota. The purpose of the meeting is to adopt legislative policy resolutions, listen to county committee activity reports and elect members to the County’s Board of Directors for the 2016-2017 year.
“We had a great year promoting agriculture, raising awareness and providing programming to benefit our members,” said County Farm Bureau President Darrell Griff. “I am proud to serve with such a dedicated group of volunteers to help Madison County farm families excel. The annual meeting allows us to come together and reflect on the many accomplishments and contributions to our communities.”
A portion of the night was dedicated to voting on legislative policy resolutions that will be sent on for consideration at New York Farm Bureau’s State Annual Meeting in December. Here, representatives from all the County Farm Bureaus will come together to set the public policy agenda for 2017 based on positions that are locally derived. “It is grassroots advocacy at its finest,” said Griff. “We, the farmer members, are on the front lines every day, we face challenges, burdensome regulations that impact our industry and to have a voice in developing an agenda to benefit every farmer in New York is worth the value of membership in Farm Bureau.”
Members also took a look back at the programming over the last year that ranged from government relations, engaging young farmers, workshops to bolster the equine community, educational initiatives and finding creative ways to give back. Looking ahead, the Board of Directors encouraged members to participate in the 3 rd Annual Bartender Takeover Night at Owera Vineyards on November 4. It is expected to be another evening of fun, food, wine, beer and spirits and live entertainment all to benefit a worthy cause, the Food Bank of Central New York. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend.