Last week when I attended the annual New York State Agricultural Society meeting, I connected with our state Ag Commissioner, Richard Ball. As you can see in this picture, we shared a laugh and a smile, and I am here to say, Commissioner, this one is for you! 🙂
From the bottom of my heart, I can’t say enough good things about this man and all he does for our state’s agricultural industry.
A leader. He is a source of optimism, unity, and compassion for all people.
After I listened to his annual address, I was reminded of how lucky I am to live a life supporting agriculture and how vibrant it is in New York State.
We have water! And we have a dedicated group of farmers and ag industry people who make up the heart of agriculture in our state.
Our farmers are resilient, innovative, and involved. They sit on county Farm Bureau boards, Soil & Water Commissions, and school boards.
After a hard day’s work, they give more because of a sick animal or the rain chasing the harvest.
NY farmers help to feed our world. Small scale and large scale. They use cutting-edge technology and timeless methods of raising livestock and harvesting crops. It takes all sizes and shapes, and we have them right here.
Our farmers deserve to be celebrated.
They love their families and their land, and they love their animals.
Our commissioner is the ambassador to all of this. He helps educate our political leaders, listens to farmers’ needs, and walks beside them through times of flourishing and adversity every day.
Commissioner Ball understands because he is a farmer and a farm business owner. A father, a grandfather, and a friend.
He helps restore our faith in the system and renews our oath of stewardship to the land and the animals we work with daily.
With every egg I crack, glass of milk I drink, and plant I watch grow, I am filled with gratitude.
Our commissioner leads the charge, and we follow. He is our leader, our voice for NY agriculture.
I want to say “thank you,” Commissioner Ball. You travel far and wide across our state daily and listen compassionately. With a seat in Albany, you show up and advocate for our best interests.
You are appreciated for your hard work, and I want you to know that I think New York’s agricultural landscape is better because of you.
With love,
Kate
PS: Here is a shout-out to Finger Lakes Popcorn Company. Their Penn Yan PB Pop is awesome! If you like caramel and peanut butter-styled popcorn, you will love this! As tasted, by me, at the New York State Ag Society meeting. How can you go wrong with popcorn, caramel, and salt!! Of any kind! 🙂 Here is the link! https://flxpopcorn.com/
0
