Senate Resolution No. 1557

BY: Senator STEC

CONGRATULATING Parker Family Maple upon the
occasion of its designation as 2026 Business of the
Year by the New York State Agricultural Society

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those agribusinesses whose commitment to excellence, innovation,
and stewardship strengthens New York State's agricultural industry and
rural economy; and

WHEREAS, Parker Family Maple was designated 2026 Business of the
Year by the New York State Agricultural Society during its 194th Annual
Forum, held on Thursday, January 8, 2026, in Rochester, New York; and

WHEREAS, This prestigious recognition is bestowed upon a single New
York State agribusiness that exemplifies outstanding quality,
leadership, and innovation while advancing the integrity of agriculture
statewide; and

WHEREAS, Parker Family Maple is a multigenerational, family-owned
maple enterprise located in the hamlet of West Chazy, Clinton County,
whose agricultural roots date back to the early nineteenth century, when
Henry Parker immigrated from Quebec prior to 1840; and

WHEREAS, In 1889, Adolphus and Amelia Parker established the
family's dairy and maple operation, laying the foundation for a legacy
of agricultural excellence that has continued through successive
generations; and

WHEREAS, By 1930, their son, Pearlie Parker, significantly expanded
maple production, increasing the number of taps and constructing a
sugarhouse that served the family for decades; and

WHEREAS, Pearlie's son, Earl Parker, further advanced the enterprise
by expanding the farm's acreage, modernizing operations, developing
retail and dairy facilities, and becoming a respected maple equipment
dealer; and

WHEREAS, Patricia Parker played a vital role in the growth of the
business by introducing a gift shop, allowing Parker Family Maple
products to reach customers across the nation; and

WHEREAS, Earl Parker was a pioneering leader within the maple
industry, co-founding the Northeastern New York Maple Producers
Association and earning induction into the Maple Hall of Fame in 2011,
an international honor recognizing exceptional contributions to the
maple sector; and

WHEREAS, Today, the Parker family legacy is carried forward by
Michael Parker and his wife, Laura Parker, along with Kristina Parker,
who together oversee an advanced maple operation tapping approximately
100,000 trees and producing more than 60,000 gallons of maple syrup each
season; and

WHEREAS, Parker Family Maple operates a state-of-the-art sugarhouse
featuring automated systems and organic certification, establishing a
benchmark for quality, efficiency, and sustainability within the maple
industry; and

WHEREAS, The farm serves as a vibrant community hub, hosting
educational field trips, seasonal breakfasts, and celebratory events
that bring together residents and visitors while promoting agricultural
awareness and appreciation; and

WHEREAS, The New York State Agricultural Society has commended the
Parker family for successfully preparing future generations to assume
leadership roles, ensuring continuity, integrity, and innovation within
the business; and

WHEREAS, Parker Family Maple's achievements reflect not only the
dedication of the Parker family, but also the vital support of their
employees, customers, extended family, and the surrounding community;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Parker Family Maple upon the occasion of its designation as
2026 Business of the Year by the New York State Agricultural Society;
and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Parker Family Maple.