Campaign Season

I know. You thought you were done with political advertisements. Well, I have one last one. It's of a different sort, though. Earlier this year, I entered my name as a candidate for a seat on the Georgia Farm Bureau Board of Directors. I've been involved with Farm Bureau for many years. If you are a long-time customer you may remember when I was competing in several young farmer contests and served as chair of the Young Farmer Committee. Those days are past, as I aged out of "Young Farmer" eligibility 12 years ago. However, the mission of this organization is to be the voice of Georgia Farmers. I see myself as being capable of advancing that mission. Back in my Young Farmer days, I was surprised when a few customers criticized my involvement with Farm Bureau, citing that our farming style and methods are different from conventional agriculture. While that is true, the landscape has changed a lot since. In the last 10-15 years there has been a movement toward our style of farming across the state. Although still a minority, It is now common for me to run into other farmers raising grass-fed meats, organic veggies, honey, etc... at a Farm Bureau Meeting. As our movement continues to grow, we need leadership. There needs to be a voice at the table making the case for our interests. By "our interests," I not only mean the interests of farmers like myself, but I would also include the interests of customers who prioritize this type of food. I am willing to crawl into the arena and be that voice. If Joel Salatin can be an advisor to the USDA, then I don't think a position within the Farm Bureau is out of the question for me. As a Director for District 3, which includes all of the metro area as well as the counties west of the metro, I would have the honor of representing farmers across our district. Many of those farmers are conventional, while an increasing number serve niche markets. They are all my friends, and I will always defend their right to do what they deem best for their family. My experience farming in and serving this area for the past 18 years can be an asset to the entire Farm Bureau. Please help me pray for wisdom and to have the right words at future speaking engagements. If you happen to know anyone involved with your local Farm Bureau, kindly ask them to support me in this upcoming election. The election is on Dec. 10th. FYI, this is not a full-time position. Our farm and deliveries will continue to operate as usual.