WOODBURY, NY - Leaders from Congress, the Commonwealth of Virginia, Walmart, higher education, healthcare, and the agricultural community gathered July 8 at Dublin Farms in Horntown, Virginia, to commemorate America's 250th birthday through a celebration of Virginia agriculture, community partnerships, and service. The event also recognized Dublin Farms' 150 years of agricultural excellence, providing a fitting backdrop for honoring one of the Eastern Shore's longest-standing farming operations.
Hosted by Bushwick Commission in partnership with and at Dublin Farms, the event highlighted the success of Bushwick's annual Virginia Grown potato promotion and the collaboration that brings premium Virginia-grown potatoes to Walmart customers.
Featured speakers included:
- Mark Hickman, Dublin Farms
- Ken Gray, Bushwick Commission
- Eddie Bostic, Regional Vice President, Walmart
- Congresswoman Jen Kiggans, Virginia's 2nd Congressional District
- Katie Frazier, Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry
- Kate Ryan, Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD)
Under warm summer skies and a light breeze, guests enjoyed remarks before touring Dublin Farms and learning more about the innovation, quality, and sustainability behind Virginia potato production.
"What made this event so meaningful was seeing organizations from every corner of our industry come together to celebrate a shared commitment to agriculture," said Ken Gray of Bushwick Commission in the recent release. "This wasn't simply about marking the 250th birthday of our country; it was about recognizing the partnerships that continue to strengthen Virginia agriculture and the communities it serves."
The event also celebrated Bushwick Commission's longstanding partnership with Walmart. Multiple Walmart leaders were in attendance, including Eddie Bostic, Patrick Delaney, Tanya Adams Justice, Michael Quillen, and Carmel Stout-Kornegay.
One of the day's most meaningful moments was Bushwick Commission's presentation of a $10,000 donation to Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD). Bushwick also facilitated a donation, through Walmart and from Hasbro, of 100 Mr. Potato Head® toys for children receiving care at the hospital.
Congresswoman Jen Kiggans later reflected on the celebration in a post on her official Facebook page, writing, "Virginia's Eastern Shore is home to some of the best farmers anywhere, and I'm proud to support their work."
Guests also enjoyed a menu created by Chef Jeff Landry featuring a hearty breakfast casserole and chilled potato-leek soup highlighting the fresh flavor of Dublin Farms potatoes, as well as crowd-favorite brownies made with Dublin Farms potatoes.
Following the event, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services shared on its official Facebook page: "It's exciting to be part of thriving partnerships that are committed to making local Virginia agriculture successful!"
The celebration underscored the importance of collaboration among agriculture, retail, government, healthcare, and community organizations while honoring 150 years of Dublin Farms' commitment to excellence and looking ahead to the future of Virginia agriculture.
For more information about Bushwick Commission, visit www.bushwickpotato.com.
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Bushwick Potato Commission
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