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Tuesday, May 13, 2025

*Schedule is subject to change

11:00am - 4:30pm        Registration Open
8:00am - 12:00pm        SLAC Committee Meeting – Invitation only
12:00pm - 2:00pm        Pre-Conference Workshop (Food Service Operators only) Pre-registration required
3:00pm - 5:00pm          Opening General Session | Updates from Office of General Services (Geyser, Coesa, Hathorne)

Introduction to SLAC
Join us for a dynamic and interactive discussion introducing the School Lunch Advisory Council (SLAC). This session will give attendees a chance to explore key topics such as menu planning and pricing, state processing, the DOD fresh produce program, and communication and training needs. Seated by SLAC regions, each table will engage with a SLAC representative to discuss real challenges and opportunities, share insights, and help shape the support and resources districts need moving forward.

How to Effectively Order & Utilize USDA Foods in NY
The New York State Office of General Services (OGS) will present this informative session on effectively managing your USDA Foods and entitlement funds. Learn insider tips, best practices, and practical strategies to streamline ordering, maximize your allocations, and ensure your program runs efficiently. Whether you're new to the process or looking for ways to optimize your current approach, this session will provide valuable insights to help you make the most of your resources.

Meal Planning to Meal Service: A Structured Guide to Making the Most of Your Entitlement Dollars
Speakers: Donna Rice, Baldwinsville Central Schools; Ruth Conner, SNS, Buffalo Central Schools; Diana McCarthy, Wild Mike’s Ultimate Pizza; Marianne Dayton, SNS, Affinity Group Northeast
The New York State Office of General Services (OGS), in partnership with food service directors and industry professionals, will take you through USDA foods in your schools on best practices to understand entitlement usage and direct diversion. This will include strategies of when and where food service directors should be looking to enhance menus and be compliant with USDA foods.

6:00pm - 8:00pm          Welcome Dinner - "NYSNA Whodunit?!" (Putnam's, Arches, Garden Room)

A Night of mystery, mingling, and mayhem! Come dressed as your favorite mystery character and step into a Clue-inspired evening of intrigue. Network your way through the night, collecting game cards — Who? Where? Weapon? Why? — to solve the mystery. Our members will play the cast of characters, venues, and motives. Connect, collaborate, and see if you can crack the case before the culprit is revealed!