January 16, 2019
Florida Farm Bureau members and delegates traveled to New Orleans, Jan. 11-15, to participate in the American Farm Bureau’s 100th Annual Convention.
Florida members were well represented in this year’s Centennial Celebration. Jake and Melissa Raburn of Hillsborough County took home the coveted Young Farmers & Ranchers Excellence in Agriculture Award. The couple placed first in the nation for their impressive agricultural careers and community service.
Brian Norris of Charlotte County advanced to the Sweet 16 for his excellent discussion skills on key agricultural topics.
Annette Skoog with Elite Ovigen Inc. of Citrus-Hernando County competed in the final four round of the Ag Innovation Challenge.
Clue, owned by Andrew and Cindy Deak of Lake County was runner-up for the Farm Dog of the Year contest. The contest, sponsored by Nestle Purina PetCare Company, celebrated farm dogs who work alongside the farmers and ranchers.
Florida Farm Bureau received the Awards of Excellence for demonstrating outstanding achievements in the program areas of Advocacy, Engagement and Outreach, Leadership and Business Development and Member Value.
Florida delegates helped adopt policies to guide the national farm organization during its centennial year on key topics such as farm bill implementation, cell-cultured food products, trade, rural broadband access and rural mental health programs.
The 100th Annual Convention included a tradeshow, farm tours, musical entertainment and a closing address by President Donald J. Trump.
Next year’s AFBF Annual Convention & IDEAg Trade Show will be Jan. 17-22 in Austin, TX.
See photos from the 2019 Annual Convention:
