The 2026 AFBF conference at the Anaheim Convention center was incredible! Here are some of the highlights:
The theme of the conference was imagine, grow, lead. Keynote speakers and workshop presenters kept true to these themes along with the power of vulnerability.
There was no shortage of sharing from the heart, especially the topic of mental health. From the top, down, stories of overcoming hardship and loss were shared. I appreciated hearing the story of a farmer who lost his barn full of pregnant sheep due to a fire. He was supported by FB members and Farm State of Mind. Farming is fraught with challenges, losses that are devastating whether it be livestock, crops or loved ones. Farming is a gamble, it requires so much faith.
Kicked Saturday morning off with the Women in Ag Meet and Greet where I met some amazing women in marketing, 4H extension and DC lobbying. The morning continued with the annual meeting of AFB Women featuring coach Kiah. Kiah shared her inspiring story, challenging us to think about our legacy as farmers.
Saturday afternoon, headed to the trade show to connect with event sponsors. The prizes were amazing, and I was so happy to receive a free skin cancer screening. I also attended John Dinmore’s Communicate, Collaborate and Influence presentation on utilizing social media to reach new heights for agriculture and to grow our farms.
Sunday morning featured the opening general session led by AFBF president Zippy Duvall. Zippy is always inspiring, I loved these passages he shared:
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Isaiah 40:29
But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:31
My next session featured USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden. Very informative, discussing the trade and economic challenges farmers face. Sunday afternoon’s session featured 2 Senators and 2 US Representatives, who all sit on agriculture committees. It was good to hear updates and proposed legislative solutions.
Sunday evening Michigan Farm Bureau members and staff gathered at a local restaurant for our Michigan dinner. It was fun catching up with familiar faces.
Monday morning I headed to a presentation on the history of Orange County agriculture. With family ties here, it was fascinating to learn about the area's ag history.
The closing general session was a favorite for sure. USDA Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins. She was so knowledgeable and provided so many updates. She took time to break down every initiative the current administration has undertaken. She was honest in the positives and in the areas that still need improvement. Her transparency was refreshing, also sharing her faith and recent study of Exodus, encouraging us to move forward like Moses in what God calls us to as farmers.
Tim Tebow closed out this session with such energy and enthusiasm. Sharing humorous and trying moments from his own life, he challenged us in many ways. I took away Tim’s sharing of the Greek definition of passion, which means to suffer. He asked us what we would sacrifice as farmers even if it meant we would suffer. Challenging us to keep our perspective on Christ and to create a vision that others can believe in, Tim inspired us to look forward with confidence and anticipation.
Lastly, I attended The Power of Engagement presented by award winning producer Sam Goldberg. I have my next paperback book in the works as a result of this session.
I appreciate that the schedule leaves room for us to explore the area and connect with our friends. On Thursday I met up with Allan Robinette at Disneyland. Saturday evening I took a trip to the Crystal Cathedral, now Christ Chapel, a beautiful experience. Also went out to dinner with fellow Farm Bureau board members.
As I made my way back to Michigan, I’m encouraged, hopeful and renewed to start another year of farming with syrup season on the horizon.
Farm Bureau has an unmatched history with roots that run deep. Boarding my flight from Denver to Grand Rapids, the flight attendant asked if I had gone to the stock show. I always wear a cowboy hat and boots when I travel--they make people ask questions. I told the flight attendant “no, I was at the AFBF convention in Anaheim.” The flight attendant shared her family member worked for Farm Bureau for many decades and that she has always thought it was such a wonderful organization.
It’s humbling to play a small part in shaping the future of agriculture in America. While I never envisioned being given these opportunities, the Lord knew all along. Today’s farmers are impacting the future of food security which boils down to national security. It is life changing to have organizations like AFBF and MFB behind us.
Future generations depend on the legacy we leave for them. Our county depends on farmers. This is my why. This is why I will continue to do my part as a farmer.
This originally appeared as a Facebook post by Parkside Farm. Used with permission.