March 2017 – CN Reauthorization
Posted: March 10, 2017
The collective word from the Hill is quite clear, there will be no CN Reauthorization in 2017. Agriculture leaders are focused on the Farm Bill, and yes, we in the child nutrition world will play a role in that as well. Our challenges will need to be addressed in other strategic measures this year. For many, the thought of a different style of approach might be confusing. If so, I would suggest attending SNA’s Legislative Action Conference (LAC) in Washington, D.C., April 2-4, 2017, at the JW Marriott. Our role will be clearly defined and planned strategies discussed. This conferences agenda and speaker lineup is the best I’ve ever seen.
On another note, congratulations to Michael Miller, President, SMART Systems, who was recently elected to the Industry Advisory Council Chair position. Michael takes over my position on August 1, 2017. I will be working with Michael to update and transition him into his new role over the next few months. I have known Michael for some time, and I am confident he will do an amazing job. Please wish him well!
In closing, as I have said before, the term, “Block Grant”, is being used in many places on the Hill. Now is the time to stand up, learn all you can about the history of Block Grants and get involved. We have a responsibility to the children of this country, so let’s not allow this program to go backwards.
Sincerely,
Gary Vonck
SNA Industry Representative
Published in – Industry Insider: News from SchoolNutrition.org – March, 2017
About the Author:
Gary Vonck
VP - Education Division
Gary Vonck has been with KeyImpact since 2007, adding to an impressive 40-year foodservice career. His knowledge and passion for child nutrition are unsurpassed. Gary oversees the Education Division, which includes sales, bid, and commodity teams across the entire nation.
Gary is an active member of the SNA and was the first and only broker/agency representative on the School Nutrition Association’s Industry Advisory Board, as the appointed Industry Representative, in 2008 and again 2014. Gary has also served on numerous SNA Task Forces and co-chaired several SNA events. Gary was also on the NSFMI national advisory council. In January 2013, Gary was awarded the Silver Friend of Child Nutrition FAME Award.
Gary Vonck is based in Illinois and can be reached at gvonck@kisales.com.