January 10, 2013

State of the State Message...

Foundation Applauds New Initiatives 

          Governor Andrew Cuomo presented his State of the State message yesterday to the legislature and people of New York State, unveiling a comprehensive plan which includes new initiatives that will benefit the grape and wine industry, as well as other agricultural sectors.  The new initiatives follow several other major initiatives announced on October 24 at the Governor's Wine, Beer & Spirits Summit in Albany.

           "We applaud Governor Cuomo's clear intention and entrepreneurial approach to improving the business climate in New York State," said Jim Trezise, President of the New York Wine & Grape Foundation.  "In our business, you need a good climate to grow good grapes, but you also need a good business climate to grow the industry.  These new initiatives, combined with those from the Summit, are major steps in that direction."

             A new "Taste-NY" network of duty-free retail stores to promote New York-grown and produced products (including wine where appropriate and allowed) will not only build sales of local products but also create new awareness among New Yorkers about the many high-quality farm products available from their own backyards.  The stores at Thruway rest stops, train stations, and airports will likewise educate many out-of-state consumers about the many great products New York has to offer.

             A "Market NY" program focusing on special event marketing throughout the state has the potential to supplement the existing programs of wineries and wine trails that have essentially doubled the length of the tourism season through festivals, concerts, wine-and-food weekends, and other events.

              The Governor's message also mentioned the innovative and effective program of viticulture and wine technology at Finger Lakes Community College as an example of a program that is training New Yorkers for industries that are growing and hold future promise.

               At the Summit in October, Governor Cuomo announced some immediate regulatory changes, new funding for promotion of the four farm-based beverages (wine, beer, spirits, hard cider), and the creation of task forces in several different areas.

               "We are excited and energized by the Governor's commitment to grow our industry, and we are committed to partnering with his Administration to make that happen," said Trezise.

 Media Contact: Jim Trezise, 585-394-3620, ext. 203, jimtrezise@nywgf.org