Alan started working for BIF at the age of 13 in 1976. He started working on the kid crew. Working after school in his junior high and high school days. (Just as a lot of Syracuse kids have.)

Back is 1976 he picked: spinach, turnips, rutabagas, asparagus, and green beans and graded carrots? Alan learned from some of the former farmers of BIF:Wes Jarvis, Guy Beazer, John Barns, and of curse the one he learned the most from, Charlie Black.

It wasn’t long and Alan quickly moved his way up into maintence, and also working the ground to farm and plant. Alan has a lot of pride in his work at the farm; he would challenge himself to make the straightest rows in the fields.

Alan is married to Teri and together they have raised 4 children. They have 4 grandchildren. The whole family feels like Charlie and Marta have influenced their lives. They are appreciative for everything that they have done for them, such as taking them on vacations and planning really fun farm parties. These are some of Alan’s family’s best memories.

Alan is a family man; he built his home next to his mom and both brothers. It is convenient that he works so close to home, so he can enjoy his lunch break with his mom almost daily.

Since 1976, Alan has seen many changes down at the farm. He has learned a lot and taught a lot. One thing remains the same is Alan’s love for farming.