Katie Laleman with the Henry County Farm Bureau joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Bushels for Hunger, the “Share the Road” driver’s education event, the youth farmers’ food drive, and the market outlook seminar. National Farm Safety and Health Week, which kicks off September 22nd, emphasizes this year’s theme: “Safety First, Avoid the Worst.” With the harvest in full swing, local roads will see more slow-moving farm equipment, such as combines and grain haulers. Drivers are urged to stay patient, watch for blind spots, and maintain safe following distances. On Tuesday, Henry County Fairgrounds will host the annual Share the Road event, featuring hands-on stations for over 150 high school driver’s ed students. Highlights include simulation experiences, equipment tours, and sessions on rail and roadway safety, along with a new focus on teen mental health.
Teen mental health will take center stage at this year’s Drivers Education Share the Road program, thanks to a newly added session led by AgriAbility. Organizers stress the growing pressures faced by teens—balancing academic demands, social challenges, and learning to drive, particularly on unpredictable rural roads. The upcoming event aims to address both physical and mental well-being, providing students with strategies for safer driving and stronger mental health resilience. Farm Bureau advocates say that if just one student leaves the event better equipped to handle stress or make safer choices behind the wheel, the effort has been a success.
The Farm Bureau young leaders are gearing up for their annual “Cram the Cab” food drive on Saturday, November 8th, from 9 AM to 2 PM at the Fairway in Geneseo. Community members are encouraged to stop by, receive a list of needed pantry items, and help fill the cab of a tractor with food donations. The event welcomes both food and cash contributions, with organizers aiming to support local food pantries as the holiday season approaches. Rain, shine, or even snow—volunteers promise to be on site, showing dedication to the cause, no matter the weather.
Farm Bureau is gearing up for its next major event, the Market Outlook Seminar featuring Naomi Bloom, scheduled for November 13th. Organizers encourage everyone to mark their calendars, as the seminar promises industry insights amidst ongoing harvest activities and various local programs. Membership in Farm Bureau extends well beyond agriculture, with a host of benefits—over 300,000—that cater to travelers, lodging, and much more. Interested individuals are invited to visit the organization’s website or contact the Cambridge office directly for personalized assistance. Farm Bureau’s inclusive approach means you don’t need to be a farmer to join and enjoy these perks.
Bushels for Hunger 2025 has officially launched, inviting local farmers to donate grain at participating elevators until December 31. The proceeds from every bushel sold will support the River Bend Food Bank, as well as food pantries across the Quad Cities area. Organizers emphasize the ongoing need to address hunger and food insecurity, highlighting that community participation remains essential. All types of grain donations are welcome, and every contribution makes a difference for families in need. For more information and a list of locations, visit the official Bushels for Hunger website. Your support helps fight hunger where it matters most.
Since its inception in 2010, this initiative has generated over $346,149, translating to more than 1.730,744 million meals for those in need. Local farmers participate by donating a portion of their grain, with proceeds directed to the River Bend Food Bank. The campaign is a joint effort involving county farm bureaus and local grain elevators, highlighting a strong community commitment to combating food insecurity across the region.
Students from area schools are taking the wheel—literally—at the Henry County Fairgrounds this week, where an immersive day of driver education is underway. Seven interactive stations aim to prepare new and soon-to-be drivers for rural road realities, including operating near farm machinery and navigating train crossings. Participants can climb into large tractors, try out Gold Star FS’s simulator, and experience the Illinois State Police’s seatbelt convincer. Discussions highlight both physical and mental health, with AgriAbility addressing teen wellness. Organizers hope these hands-on lessons help young drivers make safer choices and adapt to the unique challenges of Henry County’s roads.
