CCFB News» March 2023

There is always a lot of action and activities going on at the Cook County Farm Bureau. Here are some updates to recent activities and programs.

The Board of Directors recently supported a concept offered by the Bureau County Farm Bureau for a “Members in the Middle” statewide program designed for farmer members ages 35-50 to keep these individuals involved and connected with the organization following their Young Leader involvement.

The Board of Directors renewed the organization’s membership in the Illinois Farmers Market Association.

The Board of Directors approved an annual contribution to the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation to support agriculturally related leadership training by the organization.

The Ag Literacy Department finalized development of a mailable soil educational kit for teachers of fourth-eighth grade classrooms which features lessons, soil related supplies, and hands-on STEM activities thanks to a grant received from Compeer. In connection with the kit, a new AITC Specialty Program for fourth through eighth grade students entitled “What’s the Dirt on Illinois Soil?” was developed and is ready for delivery by presenters.

The Public Relations Book Club has enjoyed reading and discussing the book Rancher, Farmer, Fisherman and is looking forward to the documentary screening by the same name at Wagner Farm in Glenview on March 14 at 6p.m.

The Young Leaders Team had a Friday night “out” at Pinstripes in Oak Brook playing bocce ball, catching up with one another and enjoying pizza as a group.

Cook County Farm Bureau leaders were part of the Illinois Farm Bureau Governmental Affairs Conference and legislative reception in Springfield. During the event, Cook County Farm Bureau had an opportunity to connect with area legislators and communicate Cook County Farm Bureau/Illinois Farm Bureau policy.

The Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation kicked off its 2023 “Raffle for Ag Education” fundraiser with ticket sales with and sponsorships.

(Jonny Poole aims and rolls a bocce ball during the Young Leaders Team night out as members look on.)

Members and Dependents seeking an agricultural related career submitted scholarship applications for higher education support. The Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation Board is evaluating those applications.

The Cook County Farm Bureau Public Relations Committee developed plans for the 2023 Food Check out Day with members and Country Financial agencies providing financial support for local food pantries.

The Commodities/Marketing Team hosted an informational lunch and learn webinar on risk management of commodities for farmer members.

The Public Relations Team continued its sponsorship of the Facebook “Fact or Fiction” posts for educational purposes and prizes.

The Ag Literacy Department participated in the Junior Sheriff educational program on Feb. 10 at Catalyst Circle Rock School in Chicago by presenting details to fourth through eighth grade students about agriculture and sports just prior to the big Super Bowl game.