The NYS Mid Winter Maple Classic

[maple flats]

Today, starting about 4:00 and all day tomorrow Cornell and the NYS Maple Producers are again having the big maple conference. Unfortunately, I will miss this year, for the first time since 2004. This is the one that was in Verona, at VVS High School from before 2003 thru 2018. In 2019 it moved to a larger venue, the New York State Fair grounds in Syracuse, NY. Here is a link https://sugarmakers.nysmaple.com/eve...maple-classic/
Enjoy, I will be there again next year (the good Lord willing). I am not missing this for medial reasons, I have another commitment.

[Bucket Head]

Dave,

I wondered why I didn't see you! Actually, there were a number of "regulars" I did not see there. To be honest, I liked the Conference better when it was at VVS. But you know, as they say- change is the only constant. With the much bigger venue, I had hoped there would be more equipment on display but that has not been the case. Still good to see everything that was there and to talk to everyone. Jake Moser gave an excellent seminar on making candy with pots on the stove- not with a machine. I wish I had known his tips and tricks back when I first attempted candy making!

Steve

[Maplewalnut]

Steve- I agree. Seems like Mfrs have less and less equipment every year. Tough to compare when not everyone even has a RO or evaporator there. Alot of hypothetical discussions. I like to see the product we are talking about. Also leader is the only company that has any quantities of supplies for sale now. If you need to pick up another 100 taps or some defoamer while you are there you’re fat outta luck if looking for CDL or Lapierre

I also got charged full at the door price for my 10 year old son which never happened before. So much for encouraging todays youth to enjoy some maple.

[Bucket Head]

Yes! I like to look at stuff before I buy it too. I, and I'm sure a lot of others also, don't travel to the manufacturers open houses. So, the only opportunity to see everyone's stuff would be at a trade show such as this. Kind of like folks attending the various auto show's that are held around the country. Everybody doesn't drive to Detroit to look at a potential new car!

Steve

[Bucket Head]

And that's too bad about your son's entry fee. A few other folk's I've talked to mentioned the cost of attending the show also. My sister wanted to go this year for the first time- but to save some money she attended only on Friday evening.

Steve

[Delta Glen]

Totally agree that kids should be free. I wish they would do 2 ticket types. One that allows the purchaser to attend classes and the other is just entrance into show. As mentioned above there are few shows which allow you to talk directly with factory reps. That info is priceless when comparing new equipment. Few years ago at Empire farm days I was able to talk directly to the guy who trains the kubota dealers mechanics. Very few chances to have contact with people that much in the know.