I was recently asked what the first thing I thought about was when someone mentioned the fair…my answer was quick: “the food”. I am a sucker for corn dogs, porkchop sandwiches and funnel cakes or strawberry shortcakes. Fair food tastes extra good, not only because it is often prepared by local associations/businesses, but because of the memories that go with it. During my childhood, one of my favorite activities was walking through the livestock barns. I did not grow up on a farm, so I did not have any cows, pigs or sheep to show, but that did not mean I was not involved in the fair. I was a member of our local 4-H club, the same one my mother and aunt had been a part of years before. My fair projects were not always the most traditional and included dogs, childcare and development and even a little baking depending on the year. But that is the beauty of the fair and of 4-H, there is something for everyone. You do not have to live on a farm or be involved in agriculture to enjoy the fair, although it is a great opportunity to learn about agriculture and community. The volunteers and staff of county fairs put countless hours into making each year better than the last. Be sure to visit the Stephenson County Fair July 22 through July 26 and the Carroll County Fair August 5 through August 9th. Both County Farm Bureau offices have fair books for their respective fairs.
Illinois Farm Bureau Farm Bill Working Group: Illinois Farm Bureau will solicit members to be part of a new Farm Bill Working Group charged with examining all the titles in the legislation to consider areas for improvement. As reauthorization of the next farm bill could happen within the next year, the group will focus on the following farm bill. “The Farm Bill Working Group will be a great opportunity for our grassroots process to succeed, with a diverse group of farmers delivering for Illinois agriculture,” IFB President Brian Duncan said. “It will allow Illinois Farm Bureau members to identify what is working and what is not working in the farm bill. The goal is to be prepared with recommendations when the next farm bill is up for re-authorization.” The working group may provide policy submittals through IFB’s resolutions process. Applications for the group will open June 16, and members who are interested can apply through their county Farm Bureaus. Duncan will appoint the members, with the group tentatively having its first meeting by late summer. The number of participants will be chosen based on issue and area of expertise. The goal is to represent Illinois’ diverse agricultural industry. As work by the group gets underway, subcommittees will be developed and participants will be able to incorporate outside experts in their discussions and analysis. The members will determine how often they meet, with no pre-determined completion date. The Illinois Farm Bureau Board of Directors approved the establishment of the working group at its May meeting. Those who wish to apply must be an active Farm Bureau member and should contact their local county Farm Bureau for additional details.
2025 AGECH Innovation Showcase: The 2025 AGTECH Innovation Showcase will connect farmers, innovators, and industry. This one-day program is scheduled for Wednesday, July 16th from 9:00a.m.-1:00p.m. at the University of Illinois Research Park in Champaign. Attendees:
- Smarter decision tools powered by AI, remote sensing, and real-time field data.
- Biological and soil health solutions to improve productivity and sustainability.
- Technologies around inputs and equipment to help reduce costs and maximize ROI.
- Farm management platforms that simplify operations, data and financial insights.
There is no cost to attend, and lunch will be provided. Learn more or to register at www.on.ilfb.org/agtech25
Disaster Preparedness Class: The Stephenson County Farm Bureau has partnered with the Stephenson County Health Department to hold a Disaster Preparedness presentation. This presentation will take place at the Farm Bureau office 210 W Spring Street Freeport, IL. This class will take place on Tuesday, July 15 from 5:30p.m.-6:30p.m. A light dinner will be provided. Each household will receive starter items for the Disaster Preparedness kit. Space is limited, so don’t delay reserving your spot at 815-232-3186. This program is FREE and open to the public, families and individuals encouraged to attend.