Dairy farmers needed to go to DC

Invitation for "Dairy Does D.C. in December"


When: Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2009

Where: Washington, D.C.

Who: All Dairy Crisis Interested Parties (farmers, Holstein Association USA, FoodDemocracy Now, Food and Water Watch, Food Declaration, National Family Farm Coalition, Chambers of Commerce, Land Trusts, National Farmers Union, Pro-Ag, Family Farm Defenders, Moms Rising, FFA, agribusiness, financing sectors, students, consumers, Slow Food USA)

Why: To have a coast-to-coast, coordinated effort and steadfast presence to gain national attention and meet with our state representatives. Washington D.C. does not understand that the dairy economy is hovering on the brink of collapse. There has never been a better time to send someone from your farm or family to D.C. to deliver a firm message calling for action to secure a future in dairy farming instead of a financial collapse.
Why Background:

Dairy farmers know their dues-taking organizations are not acting with conviction for them – the dues-paying members.

Who is coming with us? RSVP Sun., Nov. 8 Want to learn more? Please email us.

RSVP or learn more by contacting, Bryan Gotham, blcgotham@yahoo.com. Find him on Facebook too.

Background:

A conference call of over 40 dairy crisis interested individuals from coast to coast occurred on Monday, Nov. 2 to discuss Dairy Does D.C. in December. This invitation is to find out who wants to go. After we have gauged the interest at end of day Sunday, Nov. 8, we will have another planning conference call on Nov. 9. Below is the draft framework of tasks.

Steps with Tasks and Goals

1. Measure participation interest in Dairy does D.C. in December to occur Wed., December 2nd. Planning will halt if response is weak.

2. Establish state leaders to organize buses and fundraising for bus expense. New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia organizers will provide guidance as they did this back in July.

3. Goal: 1 bus from each of the 23 major dairy states. This would be over 1000 farmers. Consumers are also encourage to go.

4. Set-up appointments with representatives for Wed., December 2, 2009

We look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

Tammy Graves

gravesarborgraphics@yahoo.com

315-858-0163