Senator Valesky Named to NY Farm Bureau’s Circle of Friends

SYRACUSE — Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) has been named to the New York Farm Bureau’s 2013 Circle of Friends.

“New York’s farms are a critical component in the state’s economy, especially in Upstate New York,” said Senator Valesky. “Agriculture is our largest industry and has incredible growth potential as we are seeing with the Greek yogurt boom; we need to continue to support the industry through a strong legislative agenda.”

Valesky has sponsored and passed legislation to better market and utilize locally grown foods in restaurants and senior centers, to expand the craft beer and wine industries, and lowering energy costs for local farms and agricultural businesses. He also serves as a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee.

Each year the New York State Farm Bureau announces the legislators who, through their voting record and sponsorship of legislation, have supported New York’s agricultural business. The New York Farm Bureau is the state’s largest trade organization and works to support New York agriculture.

“The selected lawmakers were chosen for their commitment to the hard working farm families in New York. Each friend has demonstrated that they understand the importance of agriculture to the people of their legislative district, and how farming significantly impacts the economy of this great state,” said Dean Norton, President of New York Farm Bureau.