Niagara County Farm Bureau elects Kevin Bittner as new president
Press Release, Niagara County Farm Bureau
Provided photo: Niagara County Farm Bureau President Kevin Bittner, left, is congratulated by NY Farm Bureau District 2 Director Pat McCormick.
LOCKPORT – Niagara County Farm Bureau held its annual meeting at the Farm and Home Center. It focused on the grassroots foundation of the organization.
In reviewing the past year, President Jeannette Miller recapped the year chronologically. She talked about the lobbying efforts, the Corn booth at County Fair, Ag Literacy month and other efforts to influence the political issues during the year.
Pat McCormick, District 2 State Board Director, spoke about the state efforts. Although the Wage Board recommendations did not go the way the members hoped (with the overtime threshold to be lowered in agriculture), he encouraged those present to keep up the efforts to explain the issue to Governor Hochul.
He focused on the success of the Taste NY event in Queens. Many political and business leaders attended this educational event. There is another event planned and he encouraged county leaders to participate in the next event. In addition, there are new programs to encourage membership in the state organization.
The evening concluded with officer elections. Those elected are President Kevin Bittner, Vice President Mark Russell, and board members Kassidy Voelpel, Jeannette Miller, Kelly Raby, Trevor Ganshaw and Max Russell.
Bittner is the orchard specialist for Bittner-Singer Orchards in Appleton. His father, Jim Bittner, is a past president of the Niagara County Farm Bureau.
When asked about his plans for the coming year, Bittner stated, “My goal is that Farm Bureau will represent all farms, large and small. Anyone who wishes to become a member please contact any current member for an application. Any member who wishes to get involved in our policy development or events please contact me or any board member.”
For more information about Niagara County Farm Bureau, its projects and events, email info@niagaracountyfarmbureau.com or call 716-735-7791.
