Conventions are perfect opportunities for people with the same interests and concerns to gather together and discuss what the issues are as well as what can be done collectively to provide concrete solutions to problems identified. It is also an appropriate venue to secure commitments and build contacts. I guess even for farmers, this is part of the business of farming.
There is a common misconception that farmers are poor. Perhaps, in a third world country, that may be true. Even then, the person who actually owns the farm is likely to be affluent. After all, land comes at a high premium in this day and age. Anyone who can buy land has to have money. This is why at an agricultural convention, otherwise known as a farmer’s convention, whether national or international, is a gathering of well-dressed land owners.
Naturally, the speakers are in designer suits, with gold cufflinks and leather shoes to match. The audience is not much different. Dress shirts and cufflinks of all shapes, sizes and colors abound. It is actually these accessories which help differentiate one form the other.
Without splashes of color such as bright blue, silver, red and yellow cufflinks every now and then, the individuals in the group would probably be indistinguishable. It would be fun to see some of the guests or speakers wearing some whimsical item to represent their sector such as wheelbarrows, plowing tools, farm animals or tractor cufflinks. This way, while the convention appears to be a serious matter, guests can still maintain a sense of humor.
