Katie Laleman with the Henry County Farm Bureau joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about young leaders at the national convention, the succession planning workshop, “Bushels for Hunger,” scholarships, and contests. The Farm Bureau has been bustling with activity, highlighted by recent successes at the American Farm Bureau Federation convention in California, where young local leaders excelled in national competitions. Kate Huffman of Galva made Illinois proud with her strong showing. On the local front, farm families are encouraged to attend a succession planning workshop on February 20th, designed to help with the transition of family farms. Additionally, the Bushels for Hunger initiative continues its impactful run—over $354,000 and 1.77 million meals have been donated to local food banks over 16 years. Information on scholarships and contests is available on the Farm Bureau’s website.
Young artists in Henry County are being called to action as the local Farm Bureau launches its annual poster contest for students in first through third grade. This year’s theme challenges children to illustrate where their boots could take them on a farm, sparking imagination about rural life and agriculture. Entries should be created on standard white paper and must be submitted by February 19, 2026. Each grade level winner will enjoy a $50 gift card. The contest encourages creativity while also building a connection between the community’s youngest members and its farming roots.
Detailed contest rules and submission guidelines are available on the bureau’s website. For additional information or specific inquiries, participants can contact the Henry County Farm Bureau office at 309-937-2411.
Fourth-grade students have a chance to showcase their creativity as the Henry County Farm Bureau Young Leaders announce this year’s T-shirt design contest. The theme, “Agriculture: Here and There,” invites kids to express what agriculture means to them both locally and globally. The student with the winning design will earn a $25 prize, and their artwork will be featured on official event T-shirts. Entries must be submitted by February 19, 2026. The contest aims to engage young people with agriculture while encouraging artistic expression. More information is available through the Henry County Farm Bureau website.
A farm succession planning workshop by Uncommon Farms is scheduled for February 20th at Lavender Crest Winery in Colona from 9 AM to 4 PM. Hosted by Mike Downey, the event aims to help farm families navigate the often complex process of handing down their operations to the next generation. The registration fee is $40 per person, and attendees must hold a Farm Bureau membership. Those interested should note that registration closes on February 16th. Participants can expect practical guidance on legal, financial, and communication steps essential for a smooth transition. For more details or to secure a spot, contact the Henry County Farm Bureau office at 309-937-2411.
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.
Illinois Farm Bureau members are discovering more than just a platform to champion family farmers—they’re gaining access to a variety of valuable benefits. Membership connects individuals to a statewide effort supporting local agriculture, rural communities, and family food supplies. In addition to advocating for vital issues, members enjoy exclusive discounts on equipment, travel, insurance, and more. The Illinois Farm Bureau invites anyone intrigued by agriculture’s future to get involved. Information about member perks and instructions for joining can be found at the Illinois Farm Bureau website. This initiative continues to strengthen ties between farms, families, and food across the state.