It all comes together soon: a beautiful
location, outstanding speakers, industry experts sharing their
knowledge, networking opportunities and a generous helping of fun. FFVA
2009 will be held Sept. 27-29 at The Breakers in Palm
Beach.
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U.S. Rep. Adam Putnam will speak at FFVA's 2009 Annual Convention in
Palm Beach.
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OUTSTANDING SPEAKERS
The association’s 66th Annual Convention will feature keynote
speakers U.S. Rep. Adam Putnam at the annual “Cracker
Breakfast” and astronaut Fred Haise at the Awards Luncheon.
Putnam was one of the youngest members of Congress in history and is
now running for Florida Commissioner of Agriculture.
Haise piloted the lunar module during the ill-fated Apollo 13 mission
and was inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame in 1997. His
presentation emphasizes teamwork as a necessary component to success in
any endeavor.
FORUMS FOCUS ON CRITICAL
ISSUES
FFVA 2009 offers three very timely educational sessions:
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FFVA's convention will feature timely educational
sessions.
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TRACEABILITY: WHAT’S AHEAD
With traceability from field to fork becoming increasingly
important , you’ll want to see where things stand with industry
efforts to ensure rapid, accurate traceability throughout the entire
supply chain.
CRISIS PLANNING AND COMMUNICATION: ARE YOU READY?
The reality today is that one day your business is likely to face a
crisis situation, and you could be required to act as a spokesperson or
at least be subject to media scrutiny. Find out how to assess your risks
and how to be ready to deal with potentially negative publicity.
SUSTAINABILITY: IMPLICATIONS FOR AGRICULTURE
What is sustainability exactly, and how will it shape the future of
the agriculture industry?
Each of these sessions will feature industry experts and others
who will share their knowledge with participants and answer
questions. Don’t miss any of these timely and important
forums.
A CHANCE TO RELAX AND CATCH UP
No successful convention is all work and no play! Enjoy catching up
with friends and colleagues at the Chairman’s Reception. Golfers,
register now for the Florida Specialty Crop Foundation Golf Tournament.
Or if you’d rather escape at sea, sign up for the fishing
excursion and enjoy the fresh air and a little friendly competition.
Spouses and guests are invited to enjoy a fabulous luncheon, superb
shopping on Worth Avenue and a splashing good time aboard the Diva Duck
for a 75-minute land and sea tour of Palm Beach historic neighborhoods,
with a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean. They’re also
invited to a rousing round of bingo featuring lots of laughs and great
prizes.
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The silent auction will offer valuable items to benefit the George
F. Sorn Scholarship.
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Another convention tradition is the Benefit Auction. View the array of
quality items ranging from vacations and tickets to popular sporting
events to original art, accessories, fine wine and so much more. All
proceeds of the silent auction will go to the Florida
Specialty Crop Foundation's George F. Sorn Scholarship, which
benefits children of farmworkers. So splurge on something special,
knowing it will help those who are so important to our lives and our
industry.
After the auction closes bidding, you’ll be able to enjoy
yourself at the closing celebration – great food, cold beverages
and dancing with new and old friends.
SUPERB SURROUNDINGS
Bringing it all together is the beautiful environs of The Breakers,
the Palm Beach jewel complete with $250 million in renovations and new
surprises. The historic, exquisite oceanfront property features an
extensive range of services and amenities in a classic seaside
location.
REGISTER ONLINE NOW
For more information about what you’ll find at FFVA
2009, see the special convention section
of ffva.com for details and everything
you’ll need to register. Or call (321) 214-5200 if you have
questions.