Growers went back in time at the ASGA Annual Meeting—at least for one night.
The occasion was the Betaseed Reception on Feb. 2 at the Westin Long Beach. Attendees wore their best 1960s-era costumes. Betaseed organizers added an Austin Powers lookalike and two co-dancers for a swinging good time.
Look at the groovy outfits on display.
Challenges ahead
ASGA President John Snyder reminded growers of the challenges that lie ahead this year. They include the physical, political, economic, regulatory and trade environments, as well as health and nutrition.
“Customers and shareholders ask about our sustainability plans,” Snyder said. “It’s those who best adapt to change that survive.
“The annual meeting is time for reflection and planning,” he added. “Without action nothing gets done. The world needs us.”
Snyder used that word A-C-T-I-O-N as an acronym to describe his philosophy.
A is for accountability.
“We are accountable to the food security of our nation.”
C is for competence.
“We must nurture and train our leaders.”
T is for tenacious.
“The sugar world is no place for the faint of heart.”
I means I—you and I. He pointed to North Dakota grower Laura Rutherford as an example.
“Laura has inspired others to join her in speaking out more about the safety and need for genetically engineered (GE) food.”
O means own it.
“Whatever the issue is we need to own it.”
N means never give up.
“Not now and not ever. We never give up.”
“All of these actions define your board,” Snyder said. “I’m both excited and optimistic about the future of our industry.”