Survey: Wegmans is nation’s top supermarket chain. ...................................... Page 2 Jim Allen on the return of the “Dirty Dozen.” ...................................... Page 3 Paul Baker tabulates the scores from Albany lobbying efforts. ...................................... Page 4 Empire State Development to ad- minister Apple Marketing Order. ...................................... Page 7 Kast Farms, Lamont Farms hon- ored by Ag Society. ...................................... Page 7 USApples Diane Kurrle honored by ‘The Packer.’ ...................................... Page 9 Trade issues dominate USApple D.C. Lobby Day. ...................................... Page 9 Register now for the Premier Apple Marketing Forum. .................................... Page 11 RubyFrost gains momentum. .................................... Page 11 Your AMO assessments fund all of the activities of the New York Apple Association, helping to encourage profitable growing and marketing of New York apples. Stories and photos with this logo specifically highlight how your AMO dollars are being put to work for you. In this Issue 7645 Main Street PO Box 350 Fishers New York 14453-0350 Official Newspaper of the New York Apple Association Volume 4, Issue 12 May 2016 Inside: Minimum wage proposal OK’d Page 5 The appeals made by the New York Apple Association Board of Directors — seen here this winter on a visit to Albany — helped the industry secure funding in the state’s 2016-17 budget. NYAA receives $750,000 in 2016-17 NYS budget Apple Research and Development Program funded at $500,000 By Jim Allen [email protected]The New York Apple Association and the Apple Research and Development Program both favored well in the final 2016-17 New York State budget, receiving $750,000 and $500,000, respectively. This marks the 18th year that the NYAA has received additional funds from the state to carry out apple promotions, and the 3rd year that the ARDP has been supported. The support has grown from the initial year of $125,000 to a high of $1million in 2013 to help offset the reduced collections from the damaged 2012 crop. On average over the last 5-6 years, the Association has been receiving close to $750,000 yearly. The New York State Horticulture Society started petitioning the legislation for research funds a number of years ago and their efforts came to fruition three years ago and have continued to be supported at $500,000. Both organizations work hard to secure these funds by working with the legislators each year to gain their support. Personal visits to the legislative offices by both NYAA and NYSHS not only solidifies our requests, but provides us the opportunity to show accountability on how the New York State funds are spent. The complete transparency and accountability of the expenditures that we provide back to New York is not only appreciated, but often rare in By Jim Allen [email protected]Two of the most influential legislators in Albany who dedicate themselves to making New York agriculture grow are Sen. Patricia Ritchie, R-Heuvelton, and Assemblyman Bill Magee, D-Nelson. Serving as the Chairs of the Senate Ag Committee and the Assembly Ag Committee, New York farmers can be assured that both leaders are working diligently on their behalf when it’s budget time in Albany. And the work doesn’t stop with the budget; throughout the year, their Special thanks to Senator Ritchie and Assemblyman Magee Magee Ritchie See Thanks, Page 12 See Budget, Page 12
Transcript
Survey: Wegmans is nation’s top supermarket chain....................................... Page 2Jim Allen on the return of the “Dirty Dozen.”...................................... Page 3Paul Baker tabulates the scores from Albany lobbying efforts....................................... Page 4Empire State Development to ad-minister Apple Marketing Order....................................... Page 7
Kast Farms, Lamont Farms hon-ored by Ag Society....................................... Page 7USApples Diane Kurrle honored by ‘The Packer.’...................................... Page 9Trade issues dominate USApple D.C. Lobby Day....................................... Page 9Register now for the Premier Apple Marketing Forum..................................... Page 11
Your AMO assessments fund all of the activities of the New York Apple Association, helping to encourage profitable growing and marketing of
New York apples. Stories and photos with this logo
specifically highlight how your AMO dollars
are being put to work for you.
In this Issue
7645 Main StreetPO Box 350Fishers New York 14453-0350
Official Newspaper of the New York Apple Association Volume 4, Issue 12 May 2016
Inside: Minimum wage proposal OK’d
Page 5
The appeals made by the New York Apple Association Board of Directors — seen here this winter on a visit to Albany — helped the industry secure funding in the state’s 2016-17 budget.
NYAA receives $750,000in 2016-17 NYS budgetApple Research and Development Program funded at $500,000By Jim [email protected]
The New York Apple Association and the Apple Research and Development Program both favored well in the final 2016-17 New York State budget, receiving $750,000 and $500,000, respectively.
This marks the 18th year that the NYAA has received additional funds from the state to carry out apple promotions, and the 3rd year that the ARDP has been supported. The support has grown from the initial year of $125,000 to a high of $1million in 2013 to help offset the reduced collections from the damaged 2012 crop. On average over the last 5-6 years, the Association has been receiving close to $750,000 yearly.
The New York State Horticulture Society started petitioning the legislation for research funds a number of years ago and their efforts came to fruition three years ago and have continued to be supported at $500,000. Both organizations work hard to secure these funds by working with the legislators each year to gain their support. Personal visits to the legislative offices by both NYAA and NYSHS not only solidifies our requests,
but provides us the opportunity to show accountability on how the New York State funds are spent.
The complete transparency and accountability of the expenditures
that we provide back to New York is not only appreciated, but often rare in
Two of the most influential legislators in Albany who dedicate themselves to making New York agriculture grow are Sen. Patricia Ritchie, R-Heuvelton, and Assemblyman Bill Magee, D-Nelson.
Serving as the Chairs of the Senate Ag Committee and the Assembly Ag Committee, New York farmers can be assured that both leaders are working diligently on their behalf when it’s budget time in Albany.
And the work doesn’t stop with the budget; throughout the year, their
Special thanksto Senator Ritchie and Assemblyman Magee
Magee Ritchie
See Thanks, Page 12
See Budget, Page 12
Page 2 Core Report® May 2016
Study finds Wegmans tops among consumersBy Tom KarstThe Packer
Wegmans is America’s favorite grocery retailer, according to a new study from Colorado-based Market Force Information.
The poll of more than 10,000 consumers conducted in February by the company found that Wegmans led the rankings, followed by Publix Supermarkets and Trader Joe’s.
Trader Joe’s had been the top-ranked grocery retailer the previous four years, according to the study. Hy-Vee and Aldi rounded out the top five most popular retailers.
In a scoring system called the Composite Loyalty Index, Wegmans scored 76 percent, followed by Publix with 75 percent, Trader Joe’s with 73 percent, Hy-Vee with 68 percent and Aldi with 65 percent. The lowest rated retailer in the study was Wal-Mart, which rated a 29 percent score on the Composite Loyalty Index.
Aldi was ranked the top value for the money, while Trader Joe’s ranked tops in cashier courtesy. Publix and Wegmans ranked one and two in cleanliness, availability of items, ease of finding items and specialty department service.
The Market Force consumer study found that 92 percent of consumers polled purchased organic produce in the previous 30 days, compared with 27 percent who said they purchased organic frozen foods during that time. The study reported that 49 percent of consumers prefer to purchase organic items when given a choice, and 58 percent indicated that locally sourced meat, produce and dairy are important.
Two-thirds of consumers reported buying some form of prepared food from their grocer in the past 30 days,
and 19 percent said they buy prepared food once a week.
The overwhelming of consumers (99 percent) polled still shop grocery stores the traditional way, buying products at the store and taking them home, according to the study.
In the previous 90 day period, the report said only 5 percent ordered online for home delivery and 2 percent ordered online and picked up at the store. However, the study found that of the 4 percent who ever tried “click and collect,” 73 percent were happy with the experience and about half are repeat users.
Smartphone apps were used by about half of consumers in the previous 90 days, according to the report. Most use the apps — primarily offered by specific grocers — to get coupons, followed by scanning barcodes, comparing prices and creating shopping lists, according to the study.
However, printed ad circulars remain popular, according to the study, with 79 percent of consumers reporting they plan their shopping trip based on what is in the weekly ads. Among other uses of the circular, the study found 65 percent use the circular to clip coupons and 61 percent use the circular to compare prices between grocers.
Golub to expand Market 32 brandSupermarket News
Golub Corp. disclosed plans in April to open or convert additional Price Chopper Supermarkets to its new Market 32 banner.
Four stores in New York reopened under the new banner on April 21 — two in Albany and one each in Guilderland and Troy.
The company said it plans several more Market 32 locations, including conversions of existing stores in Torrington, Conn., in mid-May and Glenville, N.Y., at about the same time, plus a ground-up location in Oxford, Conn., scheduled to open this summer. In addition, it said stores in East Greenbush and Brunswick, N.Y., are in the design phase, with plans for a groundbreaking on a new location in Fort Edward, N.Y., set for the coming weeks.
According to Golub, Market 32 locations emphasize convenient, ready-to-eat foods; fresh, handcrafted and locally grown, produced and manufactured products; intuitive product adjacencies; and an elevated level of signature items.
Based in Schenectady, N.Y., Golub operates 135 stores in New York, Vermont, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
Retail ReviewNews from the retail marketing industry
June 8-10, 2016London Produce ShowEngland
June 14-16, 2016NYAA Board of Directors Mtg.Crowne PlazaLake Placid, NY
June 20-22, 2016United Fresh ShowChicago, IL
July 20, 2016Cornell Fruit Field DayGeneva, NYhttp://events.cals.cornell.edu/ffd2016Info, call: NYS Agricultural Ex-periment Station, 315-787-2341
August 25-26, 2016U.S. Apple AssociationApple Crop Outlook & Market-ing Conf.Ritz CarltonChicago, IL
Calendar
More praise for N.Y. apples
The following comment was received through the New York Apple Association website, www.nyapplecountry.com:
“I tried the RubyFrost for the first time this year. They are amazing!! Kudos to your apple breeders. I so wish they were available all year long. I bought mine at Hannaford supermarket in NH.”
At this time of year I begin to rack my brain on what kind of new promotions we can roll out for the upcoming
season.We know
what has worked this past season and in season’s past, also what kinds of things are becoming stale and outdated. One of the most f r u s t r a t i n g aspects of this business is to
get a retailer to agree to and successfully execute a promotion, then provide us with the necessary documentation that the program ran. When a retail chain is hundreds and hundreds of miles away
it’s difficult to verify execution, which is why we require specific documentation. The age of everything online and at your fingertips has made this a bit easier in some cases, but not all chains have caught up with the digital age.
Our digital promotions are continuing to gain momentum and will increase as more and more chains are realizing the importance of capturing incremental sales through their customers buying habits.
We were discussing the generation classifications in the office the other day and it’s eye opening to see that there are six generations among us now; and while I consider myself to be a pretty savvy Gen-X consumer, having two Gen- Z daughters forces me to consider how buying trends are changing and wondering what kind of promotion will capture their generation’s attention 10 or 20 years from now.
Core Report® is published monthly by the new york
Apple Associationas a member service.
new york Apple Assn.Contact
7645 Main St., Fishers, NY 14453-0350Phone: (585) 924-2171, Fax: (585) 924-1629www.nyapplecountry.com
StaffJames Allen, President,[email protected] Zingler, Director of Marketing,[email protected] Willis, Executive& Communications Assistantellen A. Mykins,Accounting Dept.susan sarlund,Northeast Account Managerlinda Quinn,Nutrition SpokeswomanJulia stewart, Public Relations Directorand NYAA spokesperson, [email protected]
Each year our friends at the Environmental Working Group release their famed Dirty Dozen list, and this
year apples fell to number 2 behind strawberries.
The top 12 fruits or v e g e t a b l e s that show the highest levels of chemical residues, as d e t e r m i n e d by the USDA, are listed and portrayed as
being dirty and dangerous. Of course, intelligent people know that all of the residue levels are well within and under the tolerances set by USDA and those levels have been deemed safe and harmless.
As you know, apples have been No. 1 for a while and each year we prepare our defense in anticipation of the release of the list. USApple and our own Julia Stewart working with PMA and United are always prepared for the back-lash from press and consumers.
Julia prepared an excellent “Talking Point List” that could be used if questioned about the list. But each year, the “consumer uproar” seems to be less and less.
Our office did not receive ANY media inquirers this year. Perhaps it was because the leader is now strawberries, or perhaps it is because consumers are getting tired of the same old scare tactics and have less faith in the EWG.
Because publicity and attention to the list has been dropping steadily over the years, some feel that the new number one spot for Strawberries
was fabricated only to attract more attention. Ouch; fabricated is a cynical term and might suggest that the entire list is fabricated just to gain attention and negative publicity. Of course it is.
Replacing apples with strawberries is just moving the chairs around on a sinking ship filled with false and ridiculous claims of “Dirty” facts. Consumers are better informed today about the benefits of eating fresh fruits and vegetables and how those benefits certainly outweigh any risks that are inaccurately reported by the EWG.
Better informed consumers also have more choices to make today, and if they so choose and they can afford to only eat Organic they can. The list is just another example of negative reporting and stretching truths and theories to fit one’s objectives and techniques to influence perceptions and beliefs in others. Presenting false claims, outrageous examples and pushing the fear factor becomes the tools of their trade.
Most of the time, the claims are not contested and the public either accepts or ignores the rhetoric. Unfortunately our industry was blindsided back in the late 1980s and the EWG with all their glory and celebrity status rose to the top of the consumer advocacy list, and apples became their Icon.
But because of that, the U.S. apple industry and our allied organizations are better prepared to defend our healthy and safe products. Contesting the claims may not always be the best approach because it can often just add fuel to the fire; but being prepared to defend is necessary.
Our defense continues to be based on sound science and data arrived through accepted testing procedures at the federal level.
Jim Allen
Branching Out
Molly Zingler
Dirty Dozen listreleased, again!
Jim
Molly
Staying ahead of the trends
Page 4 Core Report® May 2016
• Smith Car Co., others expected to battle to take over their market share
By John AppleseedExclusive to Core Report®
Details have been changed to protect the innocent
An unusual weather event centered over the nation’s second-largest auto manufacturing plant has shut down an estimated 90 percent of that company’s
production for this coming model year. Initial reports from a handful of Williams Auto workers indicate that unseasonable temperatures in the plant last month will reduce the plant’s production significantly.
“It was definitely cold enough that there could be catastrophic damage to the majority of our production this model year,” said one Williams line worker. Other Williams’ workers commented that if they can produce any cars here this year, customers should expect poor car quality and higher prices.
A source who wanted to remain anonymous noted that the trade group representing Williams workers had suggested to its workers that they refrain from making early predictions until more accurate data could be gathered. Nonetheless, several workers reported their predictions of disaster to mainstream press outlets. One headline in the hometown newspaper of the nation’s largest automaker, Smith Car Company, read “Williams’ production is nipped in the bud.” A popular auto-industry news website claimed, “Williams cars will be in short supply and cost more this fall.”
Market analysts expect that Smith Car Company and other Williams’
competitors will act aggressively to capitalize on the Williams workers’ reports to seize new market opportunities for their brands. Smith Car Company has been in oversupply in recent years as that producer has continued to expand its production despite flat consumer purchases. Meanwhile, a near-record volume of cars is expected to be produced by other auto producers this year.
One car dealer reported, “This happened before, and because of the negative news, selling the Williams cars we did have was difficult.” A customer that recently purchased a new Smith Automobile said, “We didn’t bother to look at Williams’ cars this year, because we read they would cost more and that the finish might not be what we wanted. The car we bought was made in the Northwest, 3000 miles away.
A spokesperson for the Williams Auto Association said that it is too soon after the weather event to know for sure what its full impact will be, and cautioned against anyone jumping to conclusions. He noted that a model year’s production can be affected by many factors, including adequate supplies being available throughout the production season, labor availability, overall auto supply and finished-goods marketing.
By Paul BakerAgriculture Affiliates
I am certain that to a person each of you had wished that we would have seen a status quo on the minimum
wage issue here in New York.
The already a n n u a l increase in this item has already placed new economic d e m a n d s on each o p e r a t i o n ’ s bottom line. To now see a new increased
time line on minimum wage seems depressing and at times totally unfair to every employer. No time for jokes, but it reminds me of the joke that when a patient awoke from being in a terrible car crash his doctor informs him that he has lost both of his legs. But the good news is the man in the next bed wants to buy his shoes. I am feeling many of you today feel like the car crash victim.
I think we need to look at this in a larger and longer time line. If we had seen passage of the $15 minimum wage, I think this article would be more along the line of an obituary rather than a report card. This legislation allows us time to adjust our individual practices going forward. I venture to say that the short term effect will be to see a freezing of current already above minimum wages to our employees. Wages driven by the market place had most all farms currently paying above the minimum wage.
Now I suspect this will only freeze those wages in an effort to minimize the legislative wage increases. One might argue that this legislation only really hurt those in the lower wage levels from earning a market place increase in order to bolster those who have been at the entry level.
On both the national and the state level there has been a great deal of discussion as to whether or not the voice of the common citizen is being heard inside legislative halls. Having spent many days in Albany this past winter, I had the opportunity to witness other farm voices in the halls. I have no doubt that our consistent visits had
to make its mark on the final decision to move to less than the Governor’s desired statewide $15 minimum wage.
Legislators feeling the pressure from the home districts worked to find a compromise. I personally feel that if the budget was to be passed at the end of February, the feeling was that $15 was inevitable. The many people and groups who took the time to lobby were the difference.
So what lessons do we need to take away from this? First of all if you fail to speak out then no one will ever hear you. To only complain over morning coffee will make you and your peers feel a union, but will do little to change the issues at hand. Those morning coffee topics must be directed to the ears of legislators in your home district or in Albany. If you want to make a difference you must find a way to get involved.
Second, like it or not, today’s party affiliation does make a difference in Albany. The Assembly currently heavy to Democratic votes is very liberal. The Senate is very even in its composition. To offer a counter opinion from the Assembly we must currently hold a Republican majority. Today with
some new elections and medical leaves this House is a virtual draw. Looking forward to the 2016 November elections, we need to monitor local races and support those who are willing to hear and act in our best interest.
This November is not only an important Presidential election but a very critical NYS Senate seat election to watch.
So my final report cards look like this. To the New York state legislators I give a B+. They had a great deal of pressure from the Governor to pass his $15 minimum wage. They found a way to take the sting out of his efforts by allowing us a window to adjust. To the many people who gave 100 percent of their time to voice their opinions I give an A+. We are in a much better place because of this collective effort. To the many farm groups, we need to also offer a vote of thanks for being there when we needed you the most. You also get an A.
To all that were involved we thank you. Enjoy your game changing victory. Relax for now.
The truth is I am of the opinion your skills will be called upon in the very near future.
Baker
Report cards are inon 2016 lobby efforts on labor
Labor mattersNews from Agricultural Affiliates
Commentary
Williams auto plant closed due to weather anomaly
May 2016 Core Report® Page 5
By Frank A Gasperini, Jr.National Council of Ag Employers
I heard a motivational speaker last month who attempted to break business management into a long
acronym.I think
he used EXCELLENCE or some other long word. It was a great concept but there was just too much to r e m e m b e r on a normal day using his process; much less trying
to remember it all in the stress of an agricultural season, and certainly way too much to be of help in a crisis. The speaker did succeed in making me think about my own 40 plus years in agricultural business and association management, including times when my management worked and when it fell-short.
The more I thought of it, the more I realized that successfully managing through high-stress seasonal work-loads, emergencies, and other situations that can push you to your limits is generally, for me at least, more about being prepared in advance than it is about being a great manager at any one given time. In fact, planning, training, routine every-day attention to details, and having good sound business basic processing in place out-front will trump your best last-minute recovery scramble every time. Did I mention planning, training, and
a sound business practices foundation put in place out-front? Yes, I thought so.
I left that speaker’s session thinking he had not done his job. By the next morning however I realized that he had done his job, for me at least, because he had forced me to think back and ask myself what the differences were in management situations where I had done very well, sometimes even bordering on “great” and those “other” times. The difference was always preparation, focus, attention to detail, prioritization to do the right things at the right times and willingness plus ability to ignore those things that were either unimportant at the time or even counterproductive.
I realized that for me, my most shining management accomplishments have tended to come during times when I am working at or beyond my comfortable capacity and feeling almost totally overloaded. Why? Because those are the times when I am forced to rely on organization, training, prioritization, following the basics, and carefully choosing actions based on maximum value for every precious minute spent. So, like the times you set out to go somewhere by a certain road, make a couple wrong turns and wander around but get where you were going anyhow, the speaker’s message was successful for me.
All that said, I boiled the formula that has worked best for me in agricultural sales, marketing, issues management, product management, government affairs, and association management into a five letter word. FORCE.
Focus on what you can do, don’t waste time and effort on what you cannot do. In high stress and crisis
times remember to prioritize, as my medical friends say, stop the bleeding before you attempt to manage the recovery. For those of you from snow country, when you are heading down a narrow road sideways on ice, it is not a good time to decide to look through your lunch bag to see what kind of sandwich your family packed you for today’s lunch! That sounds crazy but I have seen friends and colleagues in the middle of business, career, and personal/family crisis time after time deciding it is appropriate to clean up their messy office, buy and install major computer upgrades, or start to remodel the house.
President Theodore Roosevelt had a saying, “do what you can with what you have where you are.” If we add the importance of choosing the right priorities to act on at the right times, we have a model that will always work, if anything can work in a particular situation.
Organize and keep yourself and your business organized. In a crisis, whether that is just heavy seasonal rush, an accident, mechanical failure, weather, or a DOL audit; repetition, planning, practice, and perseverance will take over and see you through. If you organize your business, your work, and your team you will be ready for the difficult times that come along. Once the crisis hits is not the time to have to go back and organize, plan, and practice; it is too late.
Communicate. The best laid plan if is little use if you don’t share it with others on your team who will have to help implement it. The more transparent you are within your own business or the allied group you will rely on in a stress or crisis situation
up-front, the better they will be able and willing to support you without expending valuable time to bring them up to speed and helping them to help you. If you communicate clearly from the beginning and along the way, your business team will be there when you need them. If those around you know where you are headed, they will help, or at least not trip you up when you can least afford it. Good communication brings out the best in business teams.
Excellence. Seek to attain excellence every day in everything you do. If it is worth, or worthy of doing at all, it is worthy of doing well. This takes us back to prioritization too, if it is not worth doing well, to the best of your ability, just don’t do it at all or outsource it to someone else. And remember, no matter how good you, your business, your team are; you can always get just a little better by seeking a higher level of excellence every day.
So, let the FORCE be with you and your business. It has worked for me, and has proven again and again that you don’t have to be the sharpest knife in the drawer, the fastest, the best looking, or even the luckiest to succeed in both good and bad times; the most consistent winners are those who are prepared to begin with and who remember to focus on doing what they can with what they have where they are; although luck is always welcome too.
The author is Executive Vice President of the National Council of Agricultural Employers. NCAE is the national trade association representing Agricultural Employers in Washington, D.C. Visit NCAE’s website at www.NCAEonline.org for more information and continuing updates.
Gasperini
May the FORCE be with you
Final state budget dramatically increasesNew York’s minimum wageBy Jeff WilliamsNew York Farm Bureau
The 2016-17 state budget was finalized by Gov. Andrew Cuomo and legislature at the last possible moment on March 31, before the start of the new fiscal year, and the document does not spell good things for agriculture.
There are positives for the farm industry in the final budget document, such as funding for critical farm research and promotional programs for the states apply industry, increased funding for agricultural environmental projects and upstate road and bridge infrastructure. New funding for secondary agricultural education programs and county fair infrastructure were also included in the final document.
However, in the end, a dramatically increased minimum wage and a most-generous-in-the-nation paid family leave program will leave farms upstate and on Long Island grasping for ideas on how to compete against farms in other states and countries with much lower labor costs, tax burdens and business expenses.
Upstate, the minimum wage will be phased-in over five years, starting in 2017, to $12.50 an hour and then
will increase each year according to a formula based upon economic factors and the rate of inflation developed by the Department of Labor and Division of Budget.
The new phased-in wage will start on Dec. 31 of this year and increase by 70 cents each year for five years in Upstate New York. On Long Island, where many farms are in operation in Suffolk County, the minimum wage will be phased-in over six years to $15 an hour or a $1 per year increase. Wages in New York City will be phased-in on a quicker schedule. These wage increases will cost farms hundreds of millions of dollars a year and will make it extremely difficult for farms, which exist on a razor thin margin at best, to remain profitable.
Limited assistance has been offered in the State Budget to help farms offset increased wage payments. Farms that
make over two-thirds of their income from their farm operation and have a gross income of at least $30,000 will be eligible for a per employee refundable tax credit at the end of the tax year. The tax credit would begin at $250 per employee (as long as they work at least 500 hours in the year) and increase to $600 over five years before expiring. Also included in the budget are Personal Income Tax reductions for households making up to $300,000 annually.
A new Paid Family Leave program will allow workers who work six months to take employee-funded leave starting in 2018 of up to eight weeks and phasing in to 12 weeks by 2021.
The employee leave benefits will be a portion of their normal wages and funded by a weekly payroll tax deduction that will be determined by the state.
While New York Farm Bureau was successful in strengthening the eligibility requirements for the program, Paid Family Leave will be yet another burden on farm employers in New York.
A total of $5 million in budget funding was included for county fairs across the state to invest and improve their crumbling infrastructure, which was a
New York Farm Bureau priority. New York Farm Bureau was also pleased to see that agricultural education received an increase in funding which will help to prime the pump for new secondary agricultural education programs. In addition, farm environmental programs were extremely well-funded in the final Environmental Protection Fund.
Agricultural promotion and research orders will be moving from the Department of Agriculture and Markets to the Empire State Development Corporation, despite strong attempts by both houses of the legislature and NYFB to remove this from the budget.
These orders include apple promotion, apple research, and tart cherry promotion. While some authority for the Agriculture Commissioner was retained, the orders will now be under the authority of the President of ESDC, who will be advised by producer committees.
This provision has a two-year sunset that will require renewal and an opportunity for any needed revisions at that time.
In the end, the enacted 2016-17 state budget is very troubling for the apple industry, and agriculture as whole, in New York.
Page 6 Core Report® May 2016
This New York Apple Association advertisement that ran in the Produce News emphasizes the proximity of New York farms to the nation’s largest wholesale market.
getting the Point Across
May 2016 Core Report® Page 7
NYS Agricultural SocietySYRACUSE – The New York State
Agricultural Society shared photos from last week’s annual meeting and awards program where two farms in Albion were honored for generations of work growing food.
The Century Farm Program began in 1937 and honors New York farms in continuous operation on the same land by the same family for 100 years or more. In 2000, the Bicentennial Farm Awards were initiated. Located in Albion, Kast Farms and LaMont Farms have both been acknowledged for their longevity and success.
In addition, Farm Fresh First based in Oakfield was named a Business of the Year.
LaMont FarmsBicentennial Farm Honors
Josias LaMont, the first generation of LaMonts to be born in the United States, moved his young family to Orleans County in 1815. He purchased a 140-acre farm in the Town of Gaines from the Holland Land Company.
With the advent of the Erie Canal, the farm grew and transitioned to a second generation. Major LaMont grew dry beans and wheat like his father, and built a house that still stands on the property today.
Third and fourth generations of the LaMont family expanded acreage and diversified the business to include beans, grains, livestock, apples, peaches, pears and vegetable crops.
In 1938, George F. LaMont convinced his son Thomas to return
to the farm, leaving his position as a land economics professor at Cornell University. Working together, father and son expanded to almost 500 acres with the same diverse mix of livestock, fruits, and vegetables.
The sixth generation entered the farm in 1959, including George F. and Roger LaMont. Under their management, they built the first controlled-atmosphere storage in Orleans County, and over the next three decades saw continued expansion to a peak of approximately 3,000 acres, and a Massey Ferguson dealership.
In 1982 they helped form Lake Ridge Fruit Company in Gaines to access markets beyond the scope or reach of any individual farm.
In the past 10 years, the LaMonts have down-sized the operation, and George is now retired. Roger continues to own 531 acres, including the original 140 acres purchased by Josias in 1815. He also operates a fruit brokerage company, which markets fruit from local growers to wholesalers and packers in the Northeast.
Kast Farms, Inc.Century Farm Honors
First purchased in 1884 by Adelbert Chapman, great grandfather of present owner David Kast, Kast Farms has grown from 140 acres to a 4,200 acre business of fruit, vegetable, and grain crops.
The land is currently 50 percent owned and 50 percent leased, with 2,700 acres in field corn and small grains, and 1,000 acres of processing
vegetables. An additional 450 acres is in fruit, primarily apples.
The original farm was located in a desirable area, seven miles from Lake Ontario and less than two miles from the Erie Canal. This was an ideal location to grow fruit and variety of crops due to the microclimate, soil types and proximity to the Erie Canal, an excellent transportation route at the time.
In 1915 John T. Kast married into the Chapman family, and purchased the farm from his mother-in-law. With sons Stanley and Merwin, they worked the farm for more than 60 years.
Stanley Kast took over the operation in the 1950s, and in 1989, David and wife Kathy took over full operation.
The fifth generation of the Kast family – John and Brett – have returned to the operation after pursuing careers off the farm.
David Kast partnered with eight local farms, including LaMont Farms, to form Lake Ridge Fruit Company, LLC, an apple packing and storage facility located in the Town of Gaines. He served as president for over 20 years. The company has since grown into one of the largest apple packing and storage operations in the Northeast.
Agricultural Marketingand Research Orders get new homeBy Jim [email protected]
Since the inception of Agricultural Marketing and Research Orders in New York, dating back to the late 1950s, these orders have been under the watchful eye of the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets by law.
Starting this year, that will change
as the recent budget included moving these orders away from NYSDAM and over to Empire State Development.
Despite the strong attempts by both houses of the legislation to remove this action from the budget, the Apple Marketing Order, the Sour Cherry Marketing Order and the Apple Research and Development Program are now under ESD. The dairy promotion, onion research and
cabbage research orders also will move to ESD. Final language provides a role for the Agricultural Commissioner to appoint members with advisory committees. The president of ESD will run the marketing orders seeking advice and consent from the appointed committees.
The rule is to take place in 90 days, and at this time further details are being hammered out. Although we have been
assured that business will be as usual, we certainly have concerns as we move forward and continue to believe that agricultural orders should remain in the Department of Agriculture.
A letter was sent to both houses prior to the final rule voicing our opposition and as stated, the houses did fight against the change. But much like the unemployment insurance issue, in the final hour political pressures prevailed.
Founded in 1815, LaMont Farms is honored as a Bicentennial Farm in 2016 by the NYS Agricultural Society. Bottom row, from left: Kristina Kramer, Ingrid LaMont and Suzanne LaMont. Top row: Jerry Cosgrove – Farm Credit East (award sponsor); Hans Kunze – President, NYS Agricultural Society; Richard Ball – Commissioner, NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets; George Lamont, Roger LaMont and Kurt LaMont.
hotos courtesy of NYS Ag SocietyKast Farms was recognized as a Century Farm by the NYS Agricultural Society. Pictured, from left: Hans Kunze – President, NYS Agricultural Society; John Kast; J. Stanley Kast; Tom Cosgrove – Farm Credit East (award sponsor); and Richard Ball – Commissioner, NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets.
Ag Society honors agricultural businesses
Page 8 Core Report® May 2016
Reprinted with the permission of the WSTFA
More local food, more safety risk, more federal grantsFood Safety News
With industry reporting that sales of “local foods” more than doubled from 2008 to 2014, concerns about public safety also increased, spurring the U.S. Department of Agriculture to offer almost $5 million in new food safety grants.
The money is to help smaller operations comply with new food safety guidelines established by the Food and Drug Administration under the Food Safety Modernization Act, according to the USDA’s grant announcement.
The smallest operations are specifically exempted from most of the FDA’s new requirements and rules.
However, retailers, restaurants and school districts are increasingly demanding that local suppliers meet certain food safety requirements
In addition to small and mid-sized farms, the grant program is intended to help beginning farmers, socially disadvantaged farmers, small processors, small fresh fruit and vegetable merchant wholesalers, food
hubs and farmers markets.As the local food movement has
been growing, so has the federal government’s budget for activities described in the USDA’s grant announcement as “providing consumers a stronger connection to their food.”
Since 2009, the USDA has spent more than $1 billion on more than 40,000 local and regional food businesses and
USApple: Fresh apple holdings at 47M bushels
See Grants, Page 11
May 2016 Core Report® Page 9
USApples’ Diane Kurrle honored by The Packer’s ‘Women in Produce’
Congratulations to Diane Kurrle for being selected by the Packer, and included in their special section honoring Women in Produce. Diane joins a very selective group of outstanding women that are both dedicated and committed to the produce industry across the USA. Diane’s contributions to the U.S. apple industry have been exemplary for many years, as she has immersed herself in just about every issue that in any way affects apple growers. Her presence on Capitol Hill and her expertise of the critical farm issues, is recognized and respected by her constituents and her colleagues.
Perhaps most importantly she is not only well known and respected on the Hill , but she is welcomed in Congressional offices on both sides of the aisle and is considered by staffers and members as the “Go To Apple Person!” In New York we have worked closely with Diane, and she has advocated our New York issues as well as USApple issues to both Senate and House offices with passion and with commitment. We are very fortunate to have Diane working on our side.
— Jim Allen
By Melissa ShipmanThe Packer
USApple’s Kurrle is a force for change.
As senior vice president for the Vienna, Va.-based U.S. Apple Association, Diane Kurrle, 46, works with federal lawmakers and regulators in Washington, D.C., on behalf on the apple industry, lobbying for better policies and educating others about industry needs.
In fact, she often works indirectly on behalf of the entire produce industry.
“I probably spend the most of my time working on immigration and labor issues, and I see that impacting everyone,” Kurrle said. “Whether they need five workers or 100 workers, growers all face the same challenges.”
Though she didn’t specifically seek out a career in the produce industry, she has grown quite passionate about many of the issues.
“It just happened that my first job was the Senate Ag committee, and I didn’t expect to be interested in it but once I got there, I found it really fascinating,”
Kurrle said. M a r k
N i c h o l s o n , owner of Red Jacket Orchards and former board chairman of the U.S. Apple Assoc iat ion , said he has seen Kurrle’s p a s s i o n for change firsthand.
“She’s done such a wonderful job of keeping that passion because it can be challenging when some of the issues you work on take a very long time to make progress on,” Nicholson said.
“There are so many ups and downs and bumps along the way. Diane has been ceaseless in energy and efforts to capitalize on any opportunity we have over the year.”
Another of Kurrle’s passions is investing in future leaders, particularly young women whenever possible.
“We have a young leaders program at U.S. Apple that we started a few years ago and we see a lot of very talented
young women there,” Kurrle said.In her time at U.S. Apple, Kurrle has
seen more women stepping up to take active leadership roles in the industry.
“I go to meetings and see just as many women there as men now,” she said.
Working with others in the industry has been a great experience for Kurrle.
“Not only have I been interested and intellectually challenged in this role, but the people are wonderful, too. They are the kind of people you want to work for and work with,” Kurrle said.
Kurrle doesn’t see herself pursuing any other career opportunities.
“I am meant to work in D.C., so I want to continue lobbying work,” Kurrle said. “These days, with all the congressional gridlock, it can be hard to see the value in a career like this, but I’d really like to see immigration reforms and I want to continue to advocate for the industry,” she said.
She enjoys seeing how members are impacted directly.
“All of the issues are important. We’re really helping to advance the industry,” she said.
Reprinted with permission from The Packer.
Trade issues top agendaat U.S. Apple Association’s Capitol Hill DayBy Diane Kurrle USApple Association
In March, apple leaders from New York and across the country came to Washington, D.C., for the U.S. Apple Association’s annual Capitol Hill Day.
Attendees hit on key points and long-time industry priorities including labor, H-2A issues and federal nutrition programs. But this year, trade issues took front and center.
Apple leaders urged full funding for the Market Access Program and threw the industry’s support behind passage and implementation of the Trans Pacific Partnership. With about 30 percent of the fresh apple crop destined for overseas markets, trade is increasingly important for the overall health of the industry. Even those growers who grow solely for the domestic market understand the importance of a strong export market.
But trade goes two ways, and the industry is also keenly aware of apples imported into the U.S. Free trade must also be fair trade and proper phytosanitary protections must be in place to ensure that pests and diseases are not allowed in with the apples. Toward those goals, USApple is watching very closely as a request from the European Union for increased access to our market makes its way through the regulatory process.
Many EU member countries have had access to the U.S. market for years but have not chosen to ship very many of their apples to our market. Several years ago, those countries petitioned the USDA to switch to a streamlined preclearance program to ensure their apples meet phytosanitary safeguards
for insects and diseases. This process is allowed under the rules of the World Trade Organization under which the U.S. and our trading partners operate.
The potential impact of this request changed in 2014 when Poland asked to be added to the petition. Unlike the other countries, Poland has never had access to the U.S. market and has not been subject to a formal insect
and disease risk assessment. USApple immediately sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack voicing concern and insisted the Department follow proper scientific procedures.
Poland is the world’s largest apple exporter. Russia had been their no. 1 market. When Russia encroached on the eastern Ukraine, western nations imposed a trade blockade as a punishment and Poland sided with the West. In turn, Russia responded by shutting out apples from Poland, the EU and the U.S. As a result, without the Russian market Poland now wants access to the U.S. market. At the same time, other EU countries including France are facing competition from Poland in their own markets and so they too want to increase shipments to the U.S.
Clearly, the potential for an increase in imports of European apples into the U.S. is not a desired outcome. However, due to WTO rules, the industry is limited in what we can do to mitigate the situation.
This is particularly galling as the EU has effectively shut the U.S. out of their market through the use of non-scientific barriers. Consequently, the EU, which has historically been a top market for New York and other states has been reduced to a minor outlet.
USApple is raising concerns with the Administration and Congress at every opportunity. In early March, we spoke directly to U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Michael Frohman, a member of the President’s Cabinet, at an agricultural trade meeting at the White House. We worked with key apple Senators to weigh in with USDA urging a delay in approving the
increased access until an analysis of the pest potential from Poland can be completed. Apple leaders carried that message to Capitol Hill and a number of additional offices weighed in with calls to USDA.
USDA responded by extending the timeline for their approval process by an additional 45 days. During this extension period, the industry’s Tree-Fruit Technical Advisory Council (TreeTAC) reviewed the pest profile of Poland. TreeTAC will submit formal comments to USDA in early May and at press time, the scientists were in the final stage of drafting. USApple will share those comments and the scientists concerns with congressional offices, including Senators Schumer and Gillibrand.
Formed in 2001 by the Northwest Horticultural Council and USApple, TreeTAC is comprised of top plant pathologists from research universities throughout “apple country,” including Cornell. TreeTAC provides scientific input to help USDA understand phytosanitary risks and to establish science-based policies to protect our orchards from invasive pests.
While it is not realistic to expect that we can stop the systems approach from going forward, or that Poland will eventually gain access, we are pursuing all options and insisting all proper procedures are followed. It is USDA’s responsibility to ensure that no foreign pests or diseases are allowed in with any EU apples.
USApple will continue to draw attention to the fact we do not have a level playing field so long as we do not have access to their market while they are asking for increased access to ours.
Kurrle
‘Even those growers
who grow solely for the domestic market understand the importance of a strong export market.’
—Diane Kurrle,USApple
Page 10 Core Report® May 2016
May 2016 Core Report® Page 11
RubyFrost apples gain momentumCrunch Time Apple Growers
ROCHESTER – Known as the wintertime beauty from New York, RubyFrost apples have sold out right before the start of the spring season.
“We can’t believe how quickly we sold out this year,” said Mark Russell, Crunch Time apple grower and marketing committee chair. “The response from consumers has been extremely positive, and that meant bigger orders from our retail partners.”
Available exclusively from Crunch Time Apple Growers, RubyFrost expanded its retail distribution by 40 percent in 2016 reaching additional markets across the U.S. The season launched the second week in January and the final supplies were shipped out in mid-March.
“It was particularly gratifying for me to have coast-to-coast success with RubyFrost,” Russell said. “As an Eastern grower, we love to ship west.”
Marketing efforts included a social media contest, coupons, POS materials with high graphic bins, pouch bags and in-store demos.
“The demos really tell the tale; people really respond to the combination of a hard crunch with compelling apple flavor,” said Russell, “that’s what makes RubyFrost such a winner in the New Year.”
RubyFrost enthusiasts report the crisp texture combined with the well-balanced taste of sweet and tart flavors make it such a great snack. According to Russell, consumers showed their love for the new apple this year via social media feedback. One new fan described RubyFrost as “crisp and juicy with a hint of blackberries”, while many others proclaimed it as their new favorite variety.
“The high demand for this apple shows that its qualities stand out,” Russell said. “There’s a lot of new energy in the category and it’s become an exciting and competitive space. RubyFrost sells well because it eats well, and that’s what consumers demand.”
Formed in 2010, Crunch Time Apple Growers is a grower-owned company united with the mission of introducing great crunchy and flavorful apples to the marketplace. The organization is comprised of 145 grower members in the state of New York, representing about 60 percent of the state’s apple production.
Join your industry colleagues for THE apple event of the year, June 27-28th at the Doubletree by Hilton, East Syracuse, New York. Each year this event is packed with informational sessions and discussions with industry leaders focused on marketing strategies for the upcoming crop. For more information on the Forum, please contact Bill Dodd at [email protected] or (440) 670-2883 or complete the registration form above.
infrastructure projects.According to the USDA, the
grant money is supposed to help smaller operations comply with new food safety guidelines established by the Food and Drug Administration under the Food Safety Modernization Act.
However, small operations are specifically exempted from most of the FDA’s new requirements and rules.
The grants are offered through the USDA’s Food Safety Outreach Program and administered by its National Institute of Food and Agriculture.
Applications are due June 2. See the request for applications on the NIFA website for more information.
GrantsContinued from Page 8
Page 12 Core Report® May 2016
today’s government. Complementing the efforts of the industry, the New York Farm Bureau staff each year takes the apple message to Albany, working hand in hand with the two Ag Chairs to gain their support.
The NYAA has utilized the yearly funding to support and carry out consumer promotional programs, such as radio, television and print media. Almost all of the New York money is spent in New York State, reaching New York apple consumers that are buying New York apples at grocery stores, farm markets and green markets across the state.
Both TV and radio along with the increasing use of on line digital advertising targets New York apple customers to shop local, pick local, buy local and support local agriculture. This includes promotion of New York sweet and hard cider.
The ARDP funds are used to support production research at Cornell, Geneva and the Highland Lab. In both cases the state dollars complement the collections
that New York growers provide through the Apple Marketing and the ARDP orders.
Special thanks to Paul Baker and the board of directors of the NYSHS, to Jeff
Williams and his staff at NYFB, and to Will Gunnison and his NYAA board of directors for their efforts to secure the industry with $1,250,000.
fingerprints and signatures are on a plethora of bills and legislation that are written for New York farmers.
From apples, grapes, dairy, hops, maple syrup and cabbage, to bees, bulls and berries, both of these leaders take their Chair positions very seriously and perform their duties with passion and dedication. As government continues to grow and as regulations seem to only increase, having two Ag Chairs that listen and understand the issues that face our farmers and have the willingness to take on issues and work to prevent problems are powerful allies for us in Albany.
As I report back to our apple growers on our success of obtaining funding, I am forever reminded that our success is great because of Senator Richie and Assemblyman Magee’s positions on the Ag Committees that have included our funding requests over the years.
We are most appreciative of the support that the Cuomo Administration has given New York apple growers over the years, and we thank the Governor for supporting New York agriculture.
I would be amiss if I did not also include our thanks to our Senators and Assembly members that represent our apple growing areas across the state for supporting their respectful house ag committee recommendations and casting their positive votes when it came time to approve the budget. Fearing that I may leave someone out, let me thank both the Senate and the Assembly for your continued support of the New York apple industry.
Apple industry misses out on H-2A unemployment insurance reformBy Jim [email protected]
As reported in last month’s Core Report, we had optimism that the requirement to pay unemployment insurance for H-2A workers may be repealed in the final budget negotiations
Like they say in the movie business, this repeal was cut out at the last minute and was eliminated from the budget bills.
Senator Betty Little and Assemblyman Bill Magee have introduced free standing legislation that will accomplish the same goal, which is to repeal this costly unjustified mandate.
As the session continues on through this next budget year, the agricultural lobby will continue to support the bills S.1853 (Little) and A.6256-A (Magee).
If you agree that this is an unnecessary cost to your operation, reach out and ask your legislatures to support S.1853, and A.6256-A.
Nozzolio on the mend after surgeryOn behalf of the New York apple
industry we wish Sen. Michael Nozzolio, R-Fayette, a speedy and full recovery from his recent heart surgery. Nozzolio has been a staunch supporter of the New York apple industry and of New York agriculture throughout his years in Albany. He has represented the major apple region of New York, and the Geneva Experiment Station, with strong leadership and commitment. We certainly hope that his recovery is swift and that he can resume his normal lifestyle soon. Get well and good luck, Sen. Nozzolio.
— Jim AllenThe office of New York Sen. Michael
F. Nozzolio, R-Fayette, announced he has successfully completed open heart
surgery, and is on the path to rehabilitation, recuperation and recovery.
N o z z o l i o ’ s surgery was c o n d u c t e d last week at the Cleveland Clinic to correct heart a i l m e n t s including the repair and
replacement of heart valves, and was led by thoracic surgeon Doctor A. Marc Gillinov.
Nozzolio is very appreciative to the
Cleveland Clinic, and is especially grateful to his surgeon, Dr. Gillinov, and his cardiologist, Dr. Milind Desai, along with their highly skilled and professional teams for providing excellent care and treatment.
Nozzolio is also very grateful for the work of his primary care physician, Dr. Timothy Ryan and cardiologist Dr. Maurice Varon who will both oversee his rehabilitation over the next eight to ten weeks.
Nozzolio and his wife, Rosemary, want to extend their thanks for the wonderful outpouring of prayers and words of encouragement he has received from thousands of concerned friends and constituents over the past months.
Nozzolio
ThanksContinued from Page 1
BudgetContinued from Page 1
Transitions on the Lake Ontario Fruit TeamAfter 30 years with the Cornell
Cooperative Extension Lake Ontario Fruit Team, Debbie Breth retired on March 30.
Breth was the Integrated Pest Management specialist and team leader of the four-specialist team that focuses on supporting fruit production in Niagara, Orleans, Monroe, Wayne and Oswego Counties. She was known for her strong work ethic, problem solving skills and willingness to help growers. Breth thoroughly enjoyed her work and described her job as the “dream job.”
Breth plans to assist the fruit team and her replacement on a part-time basis through the 2016 growing season, join her husband, Randy Paddock, in his consulting business and “slow down a bit” to pursue her hobbies.
On April 18, Tess Grasswitz joined the LOF team as Breth’s replacement as the IPM specialist and is based out of the Orleans County Extension office. Grasswitz is a native of the United Kingdom with undergraduate and master’s degrees from the University of London and a PhD in entomology from
the University of California (Riverside). She worked at both Washington State and New Mexico State Universities as an Entomologist/IPM Specialist serving the fruit and vegetable industries, establishing a solid record of applied research and extension. She is passionate about IPM, has worked on a variety of pests in different crops and growing systems, and has a particular interest in biological control. Grasswitz said that she is greatly looking forward to working with the team and serving the growers in the LOF region.
