2026 Kickoff Meeting at the Meadow Farmstead

Our initial event of the 2026 season, at Meadow Farmstead, was a tremendous success. You would have seen me beforehand quite worried that our weather could turn into a washout — or even a snowout, as Adirondack weather is anything but predictable! But the skies opened, and the breeze was just perfect: enough to keep the bugs at bay and make the afternoon feel almost charmed. Even the butterflies and hummingbirds joined our festa.

Many thanks to the Program Committee, who chose the perfect venue to welcome our special guest, Joy Flynn — GCA’s Zone III Co-Chair and former Conservation Chair. Her visit made the event feel especially timely and very much in tune with the direction in which the GCA itself seems to be heading.

The concept itself — blending conservation, horticulture, ecology, and support for a budding young woman-owned business — was Melinda and Ana’s idea. Our host, Becca Burke, co-owner of Meadow Farmstead, interrupted her nonstop workday to speak thoughtfully about her experience.

Sunita Halasz, water expert from the Adirondack Council, and Dillon Klepetar — head of Essex Farm Institute, Farm Advocate for the Adirondack Council, and owner of Farmstead Catering at Echo Farm — were also wonderful additions to the discussion, helping highlight ways Adirondack-region farms can remain both viable and environmentally responsible.

Rhonda wore many hats and even prepared lunch for Joy and Nancy using lettuce and scallions from Meadow Farmstead; the vegetables came from Essex Farm; and the chicken came from her own farm. Wow — that’s eating local! Hospitality also came through beautifully and made everyone feel relaxed, hydrated, and cared for.

We also had the pleasure of announcing Alice Cole’s appointment as Chair of the GCA Investment Committee, along with her sister Annie Smith stepping in as our new Second Vice President. As we approach our 100th Anniversary, and with both women being granddaughters of one of our founding members, Mrs. A.G. Paine, the moment felt especially meaningful and wonderfully full circle.

And yes, gold also comes from this ground — Josh, one of the owners of Meadow Farmstead, found and returned my grandmother’s gold bracelet that I lost during the event. Sometimes, when you think something precious has been lost, life quietly reminds you where the real gold is found.

What a wonderful kickoff to our season. Bravo to everyone who helped make it so successful.

Audrey Desjardins, AGC President