Katie Laleman joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the upcoming Market Outlook Seminar, Women in Ag Conference, and Farm Bureau membership. The Henry County Farm Bureau is gearing up for a busy March, hosting important events to support local agriculture. A key highlight is the Market Outlook seminar on March 12th at Lavender Crest, led by market analyst Darren Newsome. Interested participants are encouraged to RSVP by March 5th by calling 309-937-2411. Toward the month’s end, the annual Women in Agriculture Conference takes place on March 27th at Bally’s Quad Cities, featuring keynote speaker Tara Barrett-Dusen. With registration filling fast, attendees can learn more at womeninagricultureconference.com. Farm Bureau membership remains open to both those in agriculture and supporters, unlocking a wide array of discounts and benefits.
Darin Newsom, President of Darin Newsom Analysis and Senior Market Analyst for Barchart, will headline a special event at Lavender Crest Winery in Colona on March 12, 2026. The evening begins at 6:15 PM with dinner, followed by a grain market update from Tom Parchert of River Valley Cooperative. Newsom is set to share his market expertise honed over nearly four decades in commodities. Reservations are required by March 5th to secure a seat. The Market Outlook Series, backed by regional Farm Bureaus and local sponsors, continues June 30 with Kristi Van Ahn-Kjeseth. Contact the Henry County Farm Bureau for details.
Darin Newsom, President of Darin Newsom Analysis and Senior Market Analyst for Barchart, brings nearly four decades of expertise to the world of commodities. Newsom has worked in nearly every facet of the industry—from grain merchandising to senior analysis with a leading agricultural media group. Renowned for his distinctive approach, he’s built a reputation for clear, insightful observations on grains, livestock, energies, and more. Newsom’s award-winning commentary is regularly featured on international financial news platforms. Although he frequently reminds audiences that he’s neither a journalist nor an economist, his analysis remains highly respected across global markets.
The cost for the series is $90.00, and a single session is $35.00 (if not pre-registered, the cost will be $40.00). To make reservations, contact the Henry County Farm Bureau at 309-937-2411 or email [email protected].
Additional dates and speakers for the 2025-2026 series include: June 30, 2026 – Kristi Van Ahn-Kjeseth, Van Ahn and Company, Inc.
The Henry County Farm Bureau Foundation has announced a major scholarship opportunity for students, with a total of $60,000 available. Scholarships range from agricultural and general awards to legacy, memorial, trade, and technical program offerings. Interested applicants can find all necessary forms and information on the Henry County Farm Bureau’s website. The application window is open, but candidates must act before the March 6th deadline. These scholarships aim to support local students in a variety of educational paths, strengthening both individual futures and the community as a whole.
The Women in Agriculture Conference is set for March 27th at Bally’s Quad Cities, featuring an inspiring lineup of speakers. Keynote Tara Barrett Duzan, a former news anchor turned farmer, shares her journey of love, loss, and legacy. The agenda also includes legal expert Cari Rincker discussing planning for women in agriculture, financial consultant Morgan Falconer on reading financial statements, and entrepreneur Jackie Burns on rural communities. Additionally, a panel on female-focused farm mental health and motivational sessions by Emily Reuschel will highlight leadership, resilience, and empowerment for women shaping the future of agriculture. Find the full agenda here.
Organizers of the Women in Agriculture Conference have announced registration details for this year’s event, with tiered pricing in effect. From January 5 to February 28, attendees can register for $70. The fee increases to $90 from March 1 through March 14 and to $100 from March 15 until March 20, the final registration deadline. Refund requests will be honored only if received by March 1. Payments are accepted by credit card or check, with checks due by February 28 and made payable to the Women in Agriculture Conference. Visit the conference website and click the ‘Register’ tab to sign up.
Farm Bureau membership in Illinois offers significant advantages for those supporting family farms across the state. Members have saved more than $2 million in the past year through exclusive discounts on travel, equipment, and other essentials. The organization provides resources, advocacy, and a sense of community, all designed to strengthen Farm, Family, and Food in Illinois. Those interested in joining or learning about the variety of benefits available can visit the Henry County Farm Bureau website or get in touch by calling 309-937-2411 or emailing [email protected]. Membership is open, and new members are welcome to take part.
To discover more about these benefits and explore how you can join this network of support, visit ilfb.org/membership/benefits.