To the Editor:

I am pleased to announce that New York Farm Bureau has recently named Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush to our annual "Circle of Friends" list.

This legislative award is granted based upon his record of legislative support for New York agriculture and the Farm Bureau.

New York Farm Bureau is a non-partisan organization and does not endorse elected officials or political candidates.

Assemblyman Blankenbush joins a number of other legislators in the Senate and Assembly that have a superior voting record on issues and have shown strong support for the New York farm industry during the 2011 state legislative session.

Each member of the Farm Bureau "Circle of Friends" has demonstrated an understanding of the important issues impacting farmers and the considerable impact the industry has on our economy and quality of life.

New York Farm Bureau, the state’s largest general farm advocacy organization, works closely with the State legislature to strengthen and enhance the agricultural industry in New York State.

This year’s legislative session proved to be a challenging one for farmers, but with significant support from key legislators, such as Assemblyman Blankenbush, agriculture will continue to be one of New York’s most important industries.

We are pleased to provide the "Circle of Friends" designation to Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush to thank him for his hard work on behalf of farmers in his District and across New York State.

Dean Norton, President

New York Farm Bureau