Is really coming to an end or is it the start of a new beginning. This week the inaugural class of VALOR will be graduating. It is so hard to believe that two years has passed! I am not sure how the other members feel but I honestly believe they feel the same as I… Continue reading End of a fantastic journey or start of something much greater?
The inaugural class of VALOR visited and toured Liberty Mills Farm which is owned and operated by Kent and Evie Woods. Liberty Mills Farm spans 110 acres which was originally part of the Bloomingdale Farm, and is located in Orange County, just east of Rapidan River in Somerset, VA. Our view from the farm included… Continue reading A “farmtastic” Adventure
The VALOR class had a wonderful time at the Iguazu Falls which is located where the Iguazu River tumbles over the edge of the Parana′ Plateau which is on the border of the Brazilian state of Paraná and the Argentine province of Misiones. The falls divide the river into the upper and lower Iguazu. The river flows through… Continue reading Iguazu Falls
During the last seminar the VALOR class was honored to have Ms. Corinne Geller speak to us on Crisis Communication. Corinne is the Public Relations Manager for the Virginia State Police. As a member of the Superintendent’s Office, she oversees the statewide public/media relations program for the Department. She conducts all media relations training for… Continue reading To Do or Not To Do….That’s the Question?
People often think a peanut is a nut. However it is botanically classified as a legume. Peanuts contain properties of both the bean/lentil and tree nuts. Peanuts have been around for a while, as early as 848 B.C. It is believed that they originated in Brazil or Peru and were carried to Africa by early… Continue reading When is a Nut not a Nut?
I had a wonderful opportunity during the National United States VALOR Seminar to visit and tour the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences. Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences attracts students from all parts of the city. The school was established in 1984 when there was a great concern about the future of Agriculture Education,… Continue reading Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences
As I reflect over the past year in VALOR, I have observed a common thread throughout the agriculture industries, businesses, and people the VALOR class has had the opportunity to observe, interact with, and learn about. The prevailing thread is pride. They are proud of what they are doing and accomplishing. They love their jobs… Continue reading Pride
The VALOR inaugural class had the opportunity to tour America’s Promise Alliance and meet with the executive vice president, Melinda Hudson, during our Northern Virginia/ Washington D.C. Seminar. America’s Promise Alliance was founded in 1997 by Gen. Colin L. Powell. It is the nation’s largest partnership dedicated to improving the lives of children and youth.… Continue reading America’s Promise Visit
During the Northern Virginia/Washington D.C. seminar I had a truly unique experience in Purcellville, VA. I got to try “microgreens” while touring Endless Summer Harvest. Endless Summer Harvest is a family-owned and operated hydroponic commercial agribusiness. They take great pride in providing locally grown, pesticide free lettuces, gourmet greens, and herbs. Mary Ellen Taylor, president… Continue reading Micro……What?
Quotes that I heard while participating in the seminars that inspired me to reflect...ponder... and just made me smile. "If a one takes care of the land and the water, the land and the water will take care of them." "A leader is someone who takes the time to listen and values others opinions even… Continue reading Reflections
