Pennsylvania

AgrAbility PA joined the National AgrAbility Project for a day of informing legislators, staffers, and legislative aides about assistive technology and the important and necessary role it plays in the everyday lives of people with a disability or long-term health condition. That includes farmers, agricultural workers, and ranchers across the country!

As many said, "It's not a want. It's a need. Technology matters."

The event, held at the Hart Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill, was sponsored by the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD). It is a coalition of more than 100 national disability organizations working together to advocate for national public policy.

Legislators at the event included U.S. Senator Ed Markey and U.S. Representative Joe Kennedy III, both of Massachusetts, and U.S. Representative Glenn "G.T." Thompson, who is the U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania's 5th congressional district.

AgrAbility PA staff Dr. Connie Baggett, project director, and Kendra Martin, outreach coordinator, joined NAP staff member Paul Jones at a booth to share information on assistive technology related to agriculture.
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Cumberland Valley FFA, Central Columbia FFA, and Columbia-Montour A.V.T.S. FFA, were recognized for their winning entries in the Bridging Horizons PA Contest on June 14. Nina, Nick, and Kennedy accepted certificates presented by AgrAbility PA Project Director Connie Baggett at the Pennsylvania FFA's 88th State Convention & Activities Week at Penn State University. A cash prize was also awarded to each chapter.
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AgrAbility PA partnered with NAP to participate in the Amish Handicap Gathering located in Ephrata, PA, on June 10. Over 600 Amish and Mennonites attended the event. Many of these individuals had disabilities. The unique day was filled with fellowship, singing, food, and games. AgrAbility enjoyed sharing information about assistive technology, accessing horse drawn vehicles, safety, and more. AgrAbility PA project assistant Abbie Spackman is following up with several individuals to provide further information and services. Next year's event will be held near Berlin, Ohio, on June 8 & 9, 2018.

AgrAbility PA staff also participated in Horse Progress Days in Leola, Lancaster County, PA, on June 30 & July 1. It was the 24th year for the event, which changes in location each year. The goal of the event is to promote the combination of animal power and the latest equipment innovations in an effort to support sustainable small-scale farming and land stewardship.

AgrAbility PA project assistant Abbie Spackman represented AgrAbility at the 2017 Farming for Success event hosted by Penn State Extension. The event was attended by over 200 producers and industry professionals. The day was started with a motivational speech by Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding. He focused on the role each individual is playing in the future of agriculture. Other topics of the day included best conservation practices to protect the Chesapeake Bay, pest and noxious weed control, grain bin safety, and farm transition strategies. AgrAbility provided information to attendees and demonstrated Gripeeze gloves, Robo Handles, magnified pliers, and other assistive technology.

Submitted by Abbie Spackman