Katie Laleman joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about awards at the annual Illinois Farm Bureau meeting, Bushels for Hunger, an international trip for 2026, a “Cram A Ford” update, and a farm succession workshop in February. The Henry County Farm Bureau is gearing up for a series of significant events. Representatives attended the Illinois Farm Bureau annual meeting in Chicago, where county awards and policy changes will be spotlighted. With state officer elections and key policy decisions on the agenda, members are also looking forward to celebrating local achievements. Young leaders from Henry County will compete in discussion meets, and Kate Huffman was recognized for her agricultural achievements. Harvest season is winding down, but farmers are reminded to drive safely, especially when transporting equipment and crops. The Bushels for Hunger campaign remains open for grain donations through December 31, supporting local food pantries. Members interested in an Ireland trip can attend an informational meeting on November 20th. A farm succession planning workshop takes place on February 20th at Lavender Crest Winery—advance registration required.
Bushels for Hunger is accepting grain donations until December 31st, with contributions already arriving at participating elevators across the area. Farmers are encouraged to discuss with their local grain merchandisers about donating a portion of their harvested grain to support hunger relief efforts. As harvest winds down, fieldwork and anhydrous ammonia applications are ongoing, signaled by the familiar sight of white tanks on rural roads. Motorists are urged to exercise patience and caution around slow-moving farm equipment. Donors and drivers alike play an important role in supporting the community and maintaining safety throughout the busy agricultural season.
Farm Bureau is embarking on a fresh adventure by introducing an international group trip to Ireland, scheduled for July 25th through August 3rd. Members and community residents curious about this new offering can attend an informational meeting on Thursday, November 20th, at 6 PM at the Farm Bureau office in Cambridge. Colette Travel and local travel organizer Christina Zobris will be present to answer questions and share all trip details, from itinerary highlights to travel preparations. Those considering this opportunity are reminded to start the passport process early, as it may take time. New travel experiences await Farm Bureau members this summer. Those interested in more details can connect with Tour Coordinator Christina Zobrist by email at [email protected] or register online.
Farm families in the Mercer, Rock Island, and Henry County regions are invited to a succession planning workshop on Friday, February 20th, at Lavender Crest Winery. The session, held in partnership with Uncommon Farms, will be led by farm succession expert Mike Downey. The workshop runs from 9 AM to 4 PM, with breakfast and lunch included in the $40 registration fee. Participation is limited to Farm Bureau members. Attendees are urged to sign up by February 16th to secure their spot and allow organizers time for food and materials preparation. For more details or to secure a spot, contact the Henry County Farm Bureau office at 309-937-2411.
This year’s “Cram the Cab” food drive, hosted by the local Farm Bureau and young leaders, delivered impressive results despite challenging weather. The event kicked off under mild skies before rain and even snow rolled in, but organizers—and donors—refused to be slowed down. Volunteers filled both a tractor and a truck with over 1,200 pounds of food, complemented by generous cash donations. Heritage Tractor, Ed Morse Ford, and Fairway provided key support. All contributions will be distributed to area food pantries, meeting a growing need across the community. Organizers are already encouraging those able to continue lending a hand.
