The formal name for the ceremony is the Presentation of the National Thanksgiving Turkey. In 1989 at the end of the ceremony, then-President George H.W. Bush remarked that he was “pardoning” the turkey, beginning a custom followed by subsequent presidents. Once pardoned, the National Thanksgiving Turkey and an alternate are sent to Morven Park in Leesburg,

“Most choose-and-cut tree farms and retail lots open the Friday after Thanksgiving,” said VDACS Commissioner Sandra J. Adams. “The Virginia Christmas Tree Guide is a valuable resource to find the perfect, fresh-cut tree for your holiday celebrations while supporting Virginia’s farmers and the local economy.” Complimentary copies are available through tourist information centers, libraries and Virginia Cooperative Extension offices.

The VCE Agriculture Agent, Paige Thacker, is responsible for collecting information regarding local agricultural damage and reporting to Prince William County's Emergency Services Manager within 24, 36 and 72 hours of an event.

Due to the threat of heavy rain and possible severe weather, the State Fair of Virginia closed at 7 p.m. on Oct. 1 and will not reopen for the remainder of the 2015 season. Unused tickets can be exchanged for 2016 tickets. Details below.

Virginia Tech will hold an open house Nov. 27 in Blacksburg for students interested in the Agricultural Technology Program that offers hands-on experience utilizing state-of-the art equipment and facilities, a practical education that enables studentsto “hit the ground running,” and gain industry experience with a required internship.

Virginia Grown apples are ripe and ready—for picking, for purchasing and of course, for eating. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) reports the outlook for the 2015 apple crop is excellent and says this is probably the finest crop of Golden Delicious apples Virginia has produced in years.

September is Honey Month in Virginia. Some may ask, “Why honey?” or “Why September?” The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has answers to those questions.

“All 140 seats in the Virginia General Assembly are up for election this year. It’s crucial for farmers to let their voices be heard and elect people who will make decisions in agriculture’s best interests,” said Kelly Pruitt, VFBF grassroots coordinator, in a recent newsletter to members.