New York Farm Bureau News Bytes

In the first episode of the year, News Bytes kicks off with host Amanda Powers, Director of Communications, sitting down with Christain Lewis of Allegany County. Christain serves as a County Young Farmers & Ranchers Chair and District 1 representative and shares how his 4-H background led him to leadership roles within Farm Bureau and beyond.Recorded in Angelica, NY, along the Genesee River, this episode dives into Christain’s work raising 100% grass-fed Red Devon cattle, his involvement with Soil & Water Conservation, and why Farm Bureau has been a gateway to advocacy, networking, and real leadership opportunities for young farmers. Christain also speaks candidly about mental health in agriculture, the importance of programs like Farm State of Mind, and how Young Farmers & Ranchers are building the next generation of ag leaders across New York State.

In this episode of News Bytes, we visit Goderie’s Tree Farm in Johnstown, NY, to sit down with Pete Goderie, a third-generation farmer whose family has been growing Christmas trees for more than 50 years. Pete shares expert tips on choosing, caring for, and responsibly disposing of your Christmas tree, plus the work that goes into growing and maintaining his trees. He also discusses how the farm has diversified over the years — and how he cut his workers’ comp insurance costs in half by joining NYFB’s Safety Group 486.

In this episode of News Bytes, we sit down with Tom Denman, Associate Director of Membership Development and Engagement at New York Farm Bureau, to talk about how county annual meetings keep Farm Bureau’s grassroots spirit alive.Tom shares what makes these local gatherings so important — from raising resolutions and discussing hot topics like solar and ag exemptions, to building connections among farmers, agribusiness leaders, and community partners. He also explains how every Farm Bureau member, whether farmer or food advocate, plays a vital role in shaping the policies that impact agriculture across the state.

In this episode of News Bytes, we sit down with Maureen Ballatori, Founder & CEO of Agency 29, at New York Kitchen in Canandaigua, NY. Maureen shares how her farm roots shaped her passion for agriculture and how her creative agency helps food, beverage, and ag brands succeed. She also gives us a sneak peek into her keynote at the NYFB State Annual Convention, where she will address the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence in agriculture – and how farmers can approach new technology as a helpful tool rather than something to fear.

In this episode of News Bytes, we speak with Rebekka Henriksen, Farm to School Manager for the Schenectady City School District, about how Farm to School programs are changing the way kids and families connect with food in New York. Rebekka shares her journey from garden educator to managing 16 school gardens, orchards, and farm-to-family initiatives across the district. She explains how the Farm to School movement brings fresh, local produce into cafeterias, teaches students where their food comes from, and strengthens partnerships with New York farmers. We discuss food access in urban communities, the importance of school gardens, scratch cooking in cafeterias, and how hands-on learning helps children develop lifelong healthy eating habits. Rebekka also highlights how these programs support local agriculture and inspire the next generation of farmers. Recorded at Zoller Elementary School in Schenectady, New York, this episode shows why Farm to School is a win for kids, families, schools, and farms.

In this episode of New York Farm Bureau News Bytes, we visit the Village of Scotia to talk with Justin Cook and Kimmy Talbot, co-founders of Fresh Table Community Pantry. This mobile, farmer’s market-style food pantry that’s transforming food access in Scotia-Glenville and beyond. What began as a grassroots idea during the height of COVID-19 has grown into a model of dignity, inclusivity, and neighbor-to-neighbor support. Justin and Kimmy share how Fresh Table addresses food insecurity through choice-based distribution, culturally and religiously appropriate options, and strong community partnerships—including with New York farmers through programs like Nourish NY and Food for NY Families. We also hear about the pantry’s commitment to accessibility, volunteerism, and creating meaningful, intergenerational connections—all while helping neighbors put fresh, healthy food on the table.

In this episode of New York Farm Bureau News Bytes, we sit down with Renée St. Jacques, our acting director of public policy, to talk about the 2025 legislative session and what it means for farmers across the state.Recorded on the shores of Seneca Lake in Geneva, NY, our conversation covers major wins for agriculture in the state budget, including extensions of farm tax credits and funding for farmworker housing, as well as bills Farm Bureau worked to oppose. Renée also explains how NYFB’s grassroots policy process works, from ideas shared at county meetings to legislative action, and what issues are on the horizon for next year.This episode offers an inside look at how New York Farm Bureau advocates for farms of every size and commodity, ensuring agriculture remains strong and diverse across the state.

In this episode of New York Farm Bureau News Bytes, we sit down with NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard Ball to discuss how the New York State budget supports farmers and strengthens the food system — from investing in farm programs and workforce growth to expanding processing capacity and improving food access. Commissioner Ball also shares his perspective on national policy shifts, trade relationships, and how science and collaboration will shape the future of agriculture in New York and beyond.

In this episode of New York Farm Bureau News Bytes, we sit down with Adam Howell, outreach director at NY FarmNet, and Audrey McDougall, a family consultant, to talk about the essential services NY FarmNet provides to farmers across New York State—from financial planning and business transitions to mental health support and educational training. Recorded on location at North Riding LLC in Cleveland, NY, this conversation highlights the deeply personal and hands-on approach NY FarmNet takes to help farm families navigate both everyday challenges and life-changing decisions.

In this episode, we talk with Phillip Grant, CEO of the Hunts Point Produce Market in the Bronx. Hunts Point is one of the largest produce distribution hubs in the world, feeding millions of people daily in New York City and the surrounding region. Phillip discusses the inner workings of this massive market, including how produce comes from farmers across New York state, the U.S., and 49 other countries. He shares details about the market's $600 million redevelopment plan to expand capacity by 30% and make it easier for local farmers to get their products into the New York metro area. The conversation highlights the importance of the relationship between the market and New York's agricultural community. Phillip emphasizes his efforts to strengthen ties with farmers and NY Farm Bureau as the revitalized Hunts Point aims to increase its share of locally-grown produce from the current 10% level.