The 30,000 member strong New York Farm Bureau has again named Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,I,C-Canandaigua) to its prestigious "Circle of Friends" for the 2011 Legislative Session. The Circle of Friends recognition is one of the highest honors the New York Farm Bureau bestows upon state legislators and this year's designation marks the eleventh time Leader Kolb has received the coveted award.

"Agriculture remains the backbone of New York's economy, generating nearly $5 billion in economic activity, continuing a proud tradition of working the land that has been passed down from generation to generation. Each day, thousands of family farmers are up long before the dawn, working hard to produce high-quality, nutritious and affordable products that feed New York's families and fuel our economy," Leader Kolb said.

"Being named to the New York Farm Bureau's Circle of Friends once is an honor - being recognized for 11 consecutive years is something truly special. I thank New York Farm Bureau President Dean Norton, and all Farm Bureau members, for continuing to recognize my pro-agriculture voting record and advocacy for family farming. I will always stand up, speak out and vote in support of agriculture and our hardworking family farmers," Leader Kolb stated.

Only 93 of the 212 Members of the state Legislature were named to the Farm Bureau's Circle of Friends for the 2011 Legislative Session. Leader Kolb was first named to the Circle of Friends back in 2000, and has been recognized every year since then. Further details on the New York Farm Bureau's Circle of Friends Award are available at its website.

According to the press release issued by the New York Farm Bureau announcing the Circle of Friends Award, legislators were selected based on their strong support of New York's family farms, along with their understanding of the importance of agriculture in their respective districts and how the industry affects New York State's economy and future.