Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I - Corning) has been named to New York Farm Bureau’s “Circle of Friends.” The designation is recognition of the assemblyman’s pro-agriculture voting record during the 2011 legislative session, in addition to his commitment to supporting the farm community and Farm Bureau.

The award is based on voting record on issues of importance to New York agriculture, as well as other measures of support for farmers and the agricultural industry.

“I am extremely grateful to receive this recognition, and I promise to continue to work for New York’s agricultural community,” said Palmesano. “Agriculture is an incredibly important industry in my district and much of upstate, and is the backbone of our state economy. We must continue to support those who work in the agricultural sector in order to ensure the continued prosperity of our region.”

Earlier this year, Assemblyman Palmesano hosted the first in a series of minority agricultural task force meetings to actively pursue ideas which could have a positive impact on the industry. Held in May, the event was attended by members of the agricultural community in Steuben and Yates counties. Julie Suarez, director of public policy for New York Farm Bureau, was the highlighted speaker. The assemblyman plans to host another task force meeting in November.

“My colleagues and I have long championed the importance of local farmers, and there is much more left for us to do to support the struggling agricultural industry,” said Palmesano. “I am committed to continuing my work, gaining firsthand knowledge about what needs to be done to assist our agricultural communities.”