The guest speaker for the evening was Dave Bossellman (pictured at left). Dave is the President of the Agriculture Committee for the city of Suffolk. His presentation was about the recently formed Agriculture Committee and their goals for keeping agriculture a viable part of Suffolk’s heritage and economy. As a result of the city’s growth, much of the areas agricultural land is being developed. Housing, warehouses and other development is reducing the amount of land available for agricultural use. Agricultural land is currently disappearing at a rate of 1.8% per year. Agricultural land is slowly but surely disappearing. Once it’s gone, there is no bringing it back.
It was noted that the 2035 city plan for development did not include consideration for agricultural land. The city is currently working on a 2045 development plan. It is important that agriculture, including forestry and other conservation issues are addressed in the plan. Feedback from citizens is being accepted until April 8th, 2024. Citizens can review the draft plan and additional information at www.suffolk2045.org. Members should review the draft plan and leave feedback to make sure your input is considered. Once the draft plan is completed, it will be forwarded on to the city council for adoption. This is your chance to make your voice heard.
After the guest speaker presentation, three new chapter members were sworn in by President Chris Ferguson. Pictured below from left to right are Roger Sap, Charles Huber and Dean Heald. Welcome to the chapter gentlemen! 
Youth Program Coordinator, Chris Trimpey, gave an update on the planning for the April 27th Teddy Bear Hunt. Chris still needs additional volunteers for the event. Volunteers are what make our events successful so please, contact Chris at trimpey@hotmail.com or 757-449-4910.
Members were also reminded that BBQ tickets are on sale for the April 12th BBQ fundraising event. Additional tickets need to be sold to ensure our minimum goal is reached. Tickets can be obtained by contacting Richard Wentz at rewentz@gmail.com or 757-635-1215 (leave a voice mail message).