December 2013 Cooperator

Vol. 87 No. 12 Countryside, IL 60525 www.cookcfb.org December 2013

Co-OperatorA “staple” in the Farm Bureau member’s home since 1938

Mission: To serve all members of the Cook County Farm Bureau® with meaningful and beneficial programs that reflect our Agricultural Heritage.

Cook County Farm BureauWinner of the Power of ‘A’

2012 Summit Award

Question of the MonthHow many FREE Classified ads are

members allowed per year?Call the Farm Bureau at (708)354-3276, email your answer to [email protected] (please include Name, FB # and phone number) or fax to (708)579-6056 with the answer for a chance to enter a drawing for a $25.00 gas card.

November’s winner is Ronald Johnson.

Last Months Question: What Culver’s location can you visit to meet with local farmers on November 10th?

Answer: Culvers of Tinley Park

official publication of the Cook County Farm Bureau® Scan for more farm bureau info.

& events

For the past 14 years, Cook County Farm Bureau has partnered with the Ronald McDonald House Charities®. Through this partnership, Farm Bureau members and volunteers have been able to donate much needed food, pop tabs and funds to assist families during the most difficult time of their lives, when a child is sick. The 2014 Food Checkout Day program will be held on Thursday, March 20 at the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House located near Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago and at the Ronald McDonald House located near Advocate Hope Children’s Hospital in Oak Lawn. Please consider joining us in this great effort! With your support,

we hope to raise enough food to feed 3,000 people! Food and pop tab donation can be dropped off at your local Country Financial Agency or the Cook County Farm Bureau office prior to March 14. Cash donations can be sent to: Cook CFB, 6438 Joliet Road in Countryside, IL 60525. Checks should be made out to Ronald McDonald House Charities®. In addition to food, pop tab and cash donations we are also seeking sponsors for the program (see related article). Thank you for your continued support of this tremendous partnership!

SPONSOR LEVELS Sponsors are invited to participate in the “Countdown” to

Food Checkout Day on the Farm Bureau’s Facebook page.

Books Sponsor $500 For the past four years, Cook County Farm Bureau has asked area grade schools to donate food, cleaning supplies and pop tabs to help fill Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana pantries. The schools that help fill the Houses’ pantries receive books to fill their libraries. Join us in providing students with positive, life changing books. Books Sponsors will receive signage at the event and be listed in all publications and mailings associated with Food Checkout Day.

Continued on Page 11.

Help us Celebrate Food Checkout Day 2014

To Vote 1. Go to www.cookcfb.org/buy‐local/programs

2. Click on “Trim the Tree Survey” and this will take you to the decorated Christmas tree photos entered.

3. Voting is open until December 18th.

“Trim the Tree” Contest is On! People buying “Fresh” Christmas trees from Farm Bureau Members are submitting photos of their trees for you

to vote for your favorite. A $250 grand prize is up for grabs!

There is still time to enter by going to a participating Farm Bureau member marketer‐to locate one go to: http://localfarmproducts.org/local‐farm‐business/agriculture/ farms/tree‐farms/christmas‐trees/

Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of our Illinois friends and neighbors that were affected by the intense storms, tornados, and high winds on Sunday November 17th, 2013. This photo is from a farm in the Frankfort, IL area in which a hay barn was destroyed.

A benefit for the Will County area has been scheduled for December 15 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Mokena. See cookcfb.org for details.

The Illinois Farm Bureau has gathered information regarding resources and contacts (including ways you can help) at http://www.ilfb.org/resources.

Farm Bureau Leadership Reviews Proposed Constitutional Amendment In September, Republican Gubernatorial candidate Bruce Rauner announced the creation of the Committee of Legislative Reform and Term Limits. This new political action committee is proposing to amend the Legislative Article of the Illinois Constitution to: (1) reduce the number of State Senators, (2) increase the number of members in the House of Representatives, (3) change super majority vote thresholds, and (4) place term limits on General Assembly members. In more detail, the proposed amendment would do the following:• Decrease the Senate from 59 to 41 districts. • Increase the House of Representatives from 118 to

123 Districts. Three House districts would be nested within each Senate district.

• Limit members of the General Assembly from serving more than eight consecutive years. Legislators would not be eligible for reelection if during that term they will exceed the eight consecutive years of service.

• Reduce the votes needed to override a Governor’s veto from 3/5 to 2/3 vote of the members of each chamber of the General Assembly. Currently, vetoed bills may be overridden by a 3/5 vote.

Illinois Farm Bureau® policy does not currently address the size and makeup of the General Assembly or the length of terms of elected members of the General Assembly. In 1991, policy was added then later removed in 2005 to support tenure of no more than 12 consecutive years for members of Congress and the General Assembly. After review of the proposal, Farm Bureau is most

concerned with reducing the Senate to 41. Eliminating 18 members of the Senate could have two downsides. First is the physical size of a Senate District will increase, thus increasing the number of registered voters in a District. This will also push more Districts into the urban areas of the state and thus reducing opportunities for rural representation. Second, the proposal could impact the political makeup of the General Assembly. Currently, the political makeup of the Senate is 40 Democrats and 19 Republicans. Eliminating 18 seats could drastically alter the current ratio even more. Upon review, Farm Bureau is opposed to the Committee for Legislative Reform and Term Limit’s proposal to amendment the Legislative Article of the Illinois Constitution. At this time, there exists two options to amend the Illinois Constitution. The first is by seeking and securing the passage of a Joint Resolution of the General Assembly, followed by voter approval. The second option, which only allows the Legislative Article to be amended in a very strict and narrow way, is by voter petition. The Committee for Legislative Reform and Term Limit’s proposal would be by voter petition. Since the adoption of the 1970 Illinois Constitution there have been 18 proposed amendments of which 10 have been approved and seven failed voter approval. All but one amendment was placed on the ballot by action of the General Assembly.

Co-Operator December 2013 2 Cook County Farm Bureau

Adding Chocolaty Aromas to Chicago’s Skyline

Blommer Chocolate joined Chicago’s iconic lakefront in 1939 when Henry Blommer, along with his two brothers, Al and Bernard purchased a site at Kinzie and DesPlaines. Their family business would soon grow to be the world’s largest cocoa bean processor in North America. Shortly after opening their Chicago-plant, Blommer Chocolate delivered their first tanker of liquid chocolate and subsequently introduced chocolate pricing based on New York Cocoa Exchange quotes. From 1939 to present, Blommer Chocolate continued to expand and added a plant in Union City, California along with East Greenville, Pennsylvania and Campbellford

in Ontario, Canada. By 1995, Blommer Chocolate had processed more than 100,000 metric tons of cocoa beans and produced 275 million pounds of chocolate products. In 1997, Blommer Chocolate was processing five percent of the world’s cocoa beans. Blommer Chocolate’s product line includes: chocolate products such as milk chocolate coatings and dark chocolate coatings; signature line premium chocolate including single origin dark chocolate

wafers; sugar free products like milk and dark drops; compound coatings such as white compound coatings, drops and chunks; ice cream coatings; specialty products like panned chocolate pokies and ernies; chocolate liquor; cocoa powder; and cocoa butter. Many products are available in pallets, pails, and drums. In addition to supplying the confectionery, baking, and dairy industry Chicago’s own Blommer Chocolate also supplies the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

This feature article is not intended to be an endorsement or advertisement for any one company. Instead it is intended to be an overview of a Cook County based agri-business. Blommer Chocolate’s website, www.blommer.com provided the background information for this feature.

Editor’s NoteDear Reader, You receive the “Cooperator” because you or a family member is a Farm Bureau member. Our farm owners and operators, as members, benefit from a local, state and national organization committed to a strong and productive agricultural way of life. Members without direct ties to farming, help to promote a strong local and regional farming lifestyle, encourage wise use of our limited natu-ral resources, and help preserve our farming heritage. In addition, members are provided the opportunity to enjoy our affiliated company, Country Financial and access to the many other benefits provided by Cook County Farm Bureau. Thank you for your membership and continued support. We wel-come member input on content, including suggestions of farm, home, food, natural resource, renewable energy, agricultural heritage and farm history for future issues.

Bob Rohrer, CAE, FBCM, Editor

Co-Operatorpublished monthly

Cook County Farm Bureau6438 Joliet Road, Countryside, IL 60525(ph) 708-354-3276 (fax) 708-579-6056

(e-mail) [email protected] (website) www.cookcfb.org

USPS No 132180Periodical Postage Paid at LaGrange, IL 60525 & additional mailing office

EditorBob Rohrer

Officers & DirectorsJames Gutzmer, PresidentMichael Rauch, Vice PresidentPatrick Horcher, Secretary-TreasurerDan Biernacki James Bloomstrand Cliff Harms Michael Horcher Gerald Kopping Janet McCabe Harold Stuenkel Mark Yunker Ruth Zeldenrust

Farm Bureau ManagerBob Rohrer Office StaffMelanie Paffumi Bona Heinsohn Katie Smith Linda Tobias Bob Heine Debbie Voltz Diane Merrion Kelly StanleyKelli McSherry Jeanne Sommerfeld

Affiliated CompaniesGerald Anderson ........................ Insurance Agency Manager, Rolling MeadowsJeff Orman ...................................... Insurance Agency Manager, South HollandMike Cerf ............................................. Insurance Agency Manager, North Shore Victoria Nygren ............................... Insurance Agency Manager, Chicago NorthMarc Rogala ......................................Insurance Agency Manager, Chicago SouthMike Flynn ........................................... Insurance Agency Manager, CountrysideJack Smith ........................................... Insurance Agency Manager, SchaumburgCary Tate ...............................................Insurance Agency Manager, Orland ParkDave Mottet .............................................................General Manager, Conserv FS

Postmaster - Mail Form 3579 to 6438 Joliet Road, Countryside, IL 60525

“Co-Operator” (USPS No 132180) is published monthly as a membership publication for $2.50 per year to members as a part of their annual membership dues by Cook County Farm Bureau, 6438 Joliet Road, Countryside, IL 60525. Periodical postage paid at LaGrange, IL and additional mailing office. Postmaster: send address changes to the Co-Operator, 6438 Joliet Road, Countryside, IL 60525.

CONNECT WITH US

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Visit our website www.cookcfb.org

7th Annual Membership Appreciation Banquet at a Glance!

1. Pres. Jim Gutzmer (right) recognized retiring director and past president Jim Brandau after 13 outstanding years of service on the Board of Directors. 2. Michael and Joanne Zary were among the 210 members that enjoyed a great night of entertainment and celebration. 3. Mark Yunker, chairman of the event, checks the “bingo” of Susan and Ronald Jump. 4. Schaumburg Country Financial Agency Manager, Jack Smith and his wife Julie are long time attendees of the event. 5. The Palatine High School string group provided wonderful musical background for the members to enjoy during the silent auction prior to dinner. 6. Urban mom Amy Hansman, River Grove, presented comments about the Illinois Farm Families Field Mom tours of farms in which she has learned a great deal about agriculture and truth about food and those that produce it.

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Save the Dates…2014Community Urban Garden Grant Applications .........................Open Jan 1st – Due Jan 31st

Meet the Buyer Event @ Orland Park Civic Center ............... Feb 18th – 9:00am to 4:00pm

Guide to Beekeeping, 5 Week Course ........ Feb 18th to March 18th (Tuesdays) from 7-9 pm.

Visit www.cookcfb.org/buy-local/programs for details .......... more to come in next issue!


Living in suburbia can be a strange experience for a farm guy. An example? There are all these cars on the roads. Where do they

all come from and where are they all going? People are coming and going in a rush. These people must be very important. Shockingly, very few of these people on the highways pay attention to one another unless someone is mad at someone else. This is nothing like farm country where everyone wants to know what everyone else is doing! We call it being neighborly. Suburbia calls it being nosey. It really does my heart good when someone in a car next to me, beside me, in front of me or behind me gives me a “wave”. Such friendly folk! It reminds me of when I was growing up on the farm. Obviously, waving is a form of non-verbal communication and “the wave” was perfected in rural areas and especially on the farm...an unofficial form of sign language. There’s a rule in the farm areas. I’m not sure who wrote the rule and when it became the law of the land but trust me, it’s a rule. This rule applies whether driving a truck, a car, tractor, a four wheeler, or playing in the backyard. The rule: you must wave at everyone. I can understand the reluctance of the suburban crowd…attempting to be neighborly through implementation of rural waving techniques at all those people would be exhausting! Instruction on waving begins early in life on the farm… Parents provide careful instruction to their children on wave technique and skill. Wave practice in the farm home begins early in the morning and lasts throughout the day, usually six days a week. Sunday, being a day of rest, provides one day of recovery for sore and achy wrist muscles. As a kid, I used to spend time watching how my Dad and my Uncle conducted their waves and emulated the type of wave that I thought was the coolest. I learned that their waves were reflective of their attitudes regarding the wave recipient. Was the person a friend or a stranger or an acquaintance or a sworn enemy? Each wave changed depending on the person that my Dad and Uncle were directing the wave towards. In other words, all “waves” on the farm are not created equal. “The wave” can define you and your “coolness”. The wave can communicate various thoughts and feelings. The wave is a language of its own. At the risk of being kicked out of the “rural guys’ fraternity”, I will provide a few examples of types of waves and what they mean on the farm. In order to properly visualize these waves, please imagine driving in a mud-crusted, heavy duty pickup truck…Wave type Wave meaningThe index finger wave “I see you and I recognize

you but I am very busy, on an important mission and that’s why I’m so focused (and speeding in this truck)”

The point wave “You look marvelous, what you are driving looks marvelous and I want you to recognize that I know how marvelous you look”

The half salute wave “I’m not sure I want to associate with you but will give you the courtesy of waving effort in order to make you feel better about yourself”

The cascade wave “I am extending and drawing out the duration of this wave in a manner reflective of my coolness façade ”

The full-fledged flap wave “I am a dork and am not afraid to share it publicly”

The hang ten wave “I have never surfed nor will I, but I’m not afraid to plagiarize a Hawaiian to show how worldly I am…catch the wave, dude?”

The thumbs up salute wave “Trust me, I know stuff… Just ask me, ride please?”

The A-OK wave “Life is full of pleasure and fun and I’m living it ”

The Fist pump wave “I am large and in-charge in my four wheel drive dually… Move out of my way”

The L wave “I do believe that I’m waving at a loser”

The Horn wave “You had better head home because your cows are out”

The two finger wave “I got into the jimson weed… Peace man”

I was always partial to the index finger wave (Yes, the index finger).

I think that it is time to bring farm style “waving” to the Chicagoland area. Please join me my friends!

Downwindby Bob Rohrer, Manager

Catch the wave, dude?

Contact Information:Cook County Farm Bureau, 6438 Joliet Road, Countryside, IL 60525

708-354-3276 708-579-6056 Fax E-Mail: [email protected] www.cookcfb.org

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A Slice of History

A Minty Piece of Chicago Although Frango Mints are now marketed by Macy’s, they were originally created for the Frederick & Nelson department store in Seattle, Washington. In 1929, Chicago’s Marshall Field’s department store purchased the chocolate truffle recipe and brand name from Frederick & Nelson to help bolster slumping department store sales during the Great Depression. After Midwest introduction, Frango Mints were produced in large melting pots on the thirteenth floor of Marshall Field’s f lagship store on State Street. The mints would be produced in Chicago until 1999 when demand outpaced kitchen capacity. Despite loud protests from Chicagoans and then-Mayor Richard M. Daley, production moved to Gertrude Hawk Chocolates in Dunmore, Pennsylvania. Even after the move, the makers of Frango Mints maintained their Chicago connection by beginning the recipe with large blocks of Bloomer chocolate. In 2009, Macy’s, who had acquired Marshall Field’s, announced that one-pound boxes of Frango Mints for Chicago-area stores would be made in Chicago at south side candy manufacturer Cupid Candies.

Completely Delicious, a cooking blog, available at www.completelydelicious.com/ 2011/12/frango-mint-fudge.html provides a recipe for homemade fudge modeled after Frango Mints:

Ingredients12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (or use chocolate chips)2 large eggs½ cup of unsalted butter1 ½ cups of sifted powdered sugar1 ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract

Directions1. Line a 8x8 inch square

baking dish with parchment paper or greased foil, shiny side down.

2. Beat the butter and powdered sugar until light and creamy (about three minutes), scraping down

the sides of the bowl as necessary.

3. Put the chocolate in a heat proof bowl and set it over a small saucepan of simmering water. Stir occasionally as the chocolate melts. When its smooth, add the eggs and beat the mixture with a handheld mixer while still over the simmering water. Continue beating until the mixture is heated through and smooth (about five minutes).

4. Add the chocolate mixture to the butter and powdered sugar mixture and mix until smooth. Mix in the peppermint extract. Pour the fudge into the prepared dish and use a spatula to spread evenly. Chill in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

5. Slice into small squares, using a warm damp cloth to clean the knife in between slices for a cleaner cut. Store the mints in an air tight container either in the fridge or a dry place away from heat.

Note: Since the eggs might not be completely cooked in the recipe, use pasteurized eggs, if desired.

Jim Gutzmer, President, conducted the 93rd Annual Meeting of the Cook County Farm Bureau.

The 93rd Annual Meeting of the Cook County Farm Bureau was held November 13th, 2013 at the Cook County Farm Bureau. Several items of business were transacted during the meeting as required by the by-laws. Actions included…• A report on the audited finances of the organization.• Approval of four-appointed delegates and alternates to the

upcoming IFB Annual Meeting including

Delegates: Alternates: James Gutzmer Jim Bloomstrand Mike Rauch Janet McCabe Gerald Kopping Harry Stuenkel Dan Biernacki Ruth Zeldenrust Mark Yunker • Election of six board members to the Cook County Farm Bureau

for a two-year term including: Jim Gutzmer, Janet McCabe, Mike Rauch, Mark Yunker and new directors Jim Bloomstrand and Ruth Zeldenrust.

New Directors Jim Bloomstrand and Ruth Zeldenrust.

• Approval of the Acts of Deeds of the Cook County Farm Bureau for the preceding year.

Annual Meeting

At the November meeting of the Cook County Farm Bureau, the Board of Directors elected its leadership team for the next year. Jim Gutzmer, Prospect Heights, was re-elected to serve as the organization’s President for a 4th one year term. Gutzmer grew up in the vegetable production and marketing business and has a part-interest in a farm in Kane County. He has served on the Cook County Farm Bureau Board since 1999 in a variety of leadership roles including Ag Literacy, Political Involvement, Member relations and Governance. He is President of the CCFB Foundation and Chairman of the CCFB Political Action Committee. Mr. Mike Rauch, Tinley

Park, was re-elected to the Executive Committee as the Vice-President of the Board. Mike will be chairing the Ag Literacy Team in the next year. He has been involved as Chairman of various committees and teams since he went onto the Board of Directors in 2003. Rauch farms corn, soybeans and hay in Cook and Will Counties and holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from U of I. Mr. Pat Horcher, Wheeling, will remain as the Secretary-Treasurer after being re-elected to the post. He will chair the Public Policy team in 2013 as well as the Local ACTIVATOR Trustee Committee. Pat is Manager of the greenhouse operations of Horcher’s Country Flowers/

Vegetables in Wheeling and has served as a community leader on the village board in various capacities (including Mayor). He has been on the Board of Directors for Cook County Farm Bureau since 1994. Joining these three leaders on the Executive Finance Committee for the next year will be board members Gerry Kopping and Harry Stuenkel. The Executive Finance Committee holds the responsibility of the budgeting, finance, personnel, and day to day oversight of the organization. Janet McCabe will chair the Public Relations Team. Gerry Kopping will chair the commodities/Marketing Team. Mark Yunker will chair the Member Relations Team.

Board Elects Leadership Team for Next Year

Mike Rauch(Vice President), Jim Gutzmer (President), Pat Horcher (Secretary/Treasurer)

Congrats to the members below. They will each be receiving a $100 American Express gift card!

James CataniaRobert Platz

Franklin Polk**Members who renewed their 2013-14 membership dues through the online payment portal between 9/23/13 and 11/6/13 were entered into a drawing for a $100 American Express gift card.


“From the Country”Oh Christmas Tree!

Keep Yours from Catching on Fire Most of us love the wonderful, fragrant smell of a fresh-cut Christmas tree. Twinkling lights and colorful decorations add the final touches to the dark green needles. But Christmas trees can be dangerous, too. From 2005-2009, about 240 Christmas trees caught on fire each year throughout the United States. These fires caused an average of 13 deaths, 27 injuries and $16.7 million in property damage,

according to the National Fire Protection Association. A Christmas tree can be completely engulfed by fire in less than 40 seconds, so it’s important to be cautious with your tree. To help keep you and your family safe this holiday season, I urge you to follow the Christmas tree safety tips provided below.

Make sure it’s fresh• Buy a locally-grown tree. Trees transported to our area were

cut earlier and are more likely to be dry.• Break a few needles. They should be flexible, moist and sticky.

They should also be fragrant when crushed. If they’re not, then the tree probably isn’t very fresh.

• Check the color of the tree. Some trees are sprayed with a blue-green dye. The dye is harmless, but you need to make sure the paint is not hiding a dry tree.

• Shake the tree to see if green needles fall off. If they do, the tree is dry. Brown needles that fall from the inside probably fell years ago and were trapped in the tree.

• Cut about 1 inch off the base of the tree to help the water move through it (most vendors will do this for you).

• Put the base in a bucket of water when you get it home. Leave it outside in a cool, shaded place until you’re ready to decorate.

• Check the water level daily. A six-foot tree should use a gallon of water every two days.

Display it safely• Keep the tree in a cool room. The cooler the room, the longer

the tree will stay fresh.• Don’t put the tree near heat sources that can dry it out or even

ignite it.• Keep the tree away from doors and exits. If a fire occurs, the

tree could block escape routes.• Secure the tree so it can’t be knocked over.• Dispose of your tree as soon as possible after Christmas. Don’t

burn it in the fireplace because trees burn hot and quick. It could start a fire in your home. Trees also contain oils that could damage your fireplace.

Decorate smart• Avoid using older, larger bulbs, which are hotter and dry out the

tree.• Don’t use lights with frayed cords. Check all lights to make

sure they are in good working condition.• Always unplug or switch off tree lights before leaving home or

going to sleep.• Don’t burn candles on or around the tree. Use small light bulbs

to light your tree.• Avoid overloading electrical cords. Putting more than three

strands of lights together can be a fire hazard.• Avoid combustible decorations such as inflammable reflectors

for colored lights, foil icicles and tinsel.

I hope you have a safe and happy holiday season!

Cary TateAgency Manager

Orland Park Agency

All-America Selections is an independent, non-profit organization that tests new varieties then introduces only the best garden performers as AAS Winners. The AAS Winners offer gardeners reliable new varieties that have proven their superior garden performance in Trial Grounds across North America. For 2014, All-America Selections is recognizing both national and regional winners. As you plan your 2014 garden, think about adding some of these 2014 All-America Selections Winners to your garden.Gaura ‘Sparkle White’: Has long slender stems with a large number of dainty white f lowers tinged with a pink blush. Loves full sun. It is heat tolerant. ‘Sparkle White’ will bloom from late spring to frost.Penstemon ‘Arabesque™ Red’ F1: This hybrid has red and white bicolor large bell shaped flowers. Does best in full sun. It will attract butterflies and hummingbirds all summer. Will bloom summer to frost. Penstemon ‘Arabesque™ Red’ F1 is heat tolerant.Sunflower ‘Suntastic’ F1: This is new dwarf sunflower growing 10” to 24” tall. Great for containers. Each plant produces up to twenty 5-6 inch flowers per plant in three successive blooming periods. Sunflower ‘Suntastic’ F1 will bloom in 65 days from seed.Petunia ‘African Sunset’ F1: Plants will bloom from late spring to frost with orange flowers. The mounded, spreading plants will grow 12 inches tall and spread up to 20 inches. Petunia ‘African Sunset’ F1 is good for containers or hanging baskets.Bean ‘Mascotte’: This is bush type bean with long, slender pods that stay above the foliage for easy harvest. Bean ‘Mascotte’ has white showy flowers. The stringless pods are very crisp. Just 50 days from seed to harvest. Bean ‘Mascotte’ is great for containers and window boxes.Cucumber ‘Pick a Bushel’ F1: This heat tolerant, pickling

cucumber can be picked at the gherkin or spear stage. The semi-bush plants can be planted in the garden or in patio containers. Cucumber ‘Pick a Bushel’ F1 just takes 50 days from seed to harvest.Pepper ‘Mama Mia Giallo’ F1: This is a nearly maturing yellow, sweet Italian pepper. It produces a huge yield of peppers with a sweet f lavor. The peppers are 7-9 inches long. Pepper ‘Mama Mia Giallo’ F1 is resistant totobacco mosaic virus.Pumpkin ‘Cinderella’s Carriage’ F1: This hybrid pumpkin has pink-red colored fruit shaped like the pumpkin carriage from the fairy tale Cinderella. Each plant will yield 5-7 yellow fleshed, sweet nutty f lavored, 25-35 pound pumpkins. Great for baking or fall decorations. Pumpkin ‘Cinderella’s Carriage’ F1 is resistant to powdery mildew.Tomato ‘Chef’s Choice Orange’ F1 (pictured): This is an heirloom, indeterminate tomato with almost neon-orange beefsteak shaped fruit. It will grow five feet tall and will yield tomatoes just 75 days from transplanting. The color does not fade when cooked. Tomato ‘Chef ’s Choice Orange’ F1 is disease resistant.Tomato ‘Fantastico’ F1: This is a determinate bush tomato that will yield around 350 glossy red ½ ounce fruits. Some plants will yield up to 12 pounds of fruit. Great for small gardens, containers and hanging baskets. Tomato ‘Fantastico’ F1 is resistant to late blight.Tomato ‘Mountain Merit’ F1: This is a medium to large, round red beefsteak tomato that is good for slicing and sandwiches. It will yield tomatoes over a 4-5 week period. Tomato ‘Mountain Merit’ F1 is resistant to multiple diseases. For more information about the 2014 All-America Selections Winners, please check out their website at http://www.aaswinners.com/index.cfm.

Your South Holland Agency

AUTO I HOME I LIFE I DISABILITY INCOME LONG TERM CARE I FINANCIAL SERVICES

AndrewCarrell

South Holland708-596-3999

JeffOrman

Agency Manager708-560-7777

SharonStemke

Associate Manager708-478-0423

RandallCox

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Greenovations: 2014 All-America Selections Winners

By Ron Wolford, Cook County Extension Educator, Urban Horticulture

Cook County Farm Bureau leaders, (left to right) Janet McCabe, Kim Morton and Tim Stuenkel met with sixth grade science students from Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School. As a follow-up to the students’ unit on farming and the environment, Farm Bureau members discussed farming in Cook County, biotechnology/GMOs, and advancements in farm technologies. To schedule a Speakers Bureau presentation for your school or organization, contact Bona Heinsohn or Kelli McSherry at (708) 354-3276.


AITC

Agricultural Literacy& Public Relations

The HillsAre Alive

Ag Lit Bit By Diane MerrionThe long days of winter are upon us, along with many days off of school and work. Here are some holiday books we encourage you to check out.

The Beautiful Christmas Tree by Charlotte ZolotowMr. Crocket moves into his brownstone house and displays a little scraggy pine tree in his window during his first Christmas. The neighbors are shocked to see him plant the pathetic, small tree in front of his house the following spring. You can guess the outcome, but read it nonetheless.

Christmas from Heaven by David T. Warner (Includes CD Narrated by Tom Brokaw)This book tells the true story of the Berlin Candy Bomber where a young pilot in the US Army Air Corps distributes candy to young children in Berlin by dropping parachutes (with candy) down to them. The book reinforces the message, “From little things come big things”. A must read this holiday season.

A Season of Gifts by Richard PeckThis is the third book in a series that is set in small town Illinois in 1958. Grandma Dowdel is the main character throughout the series and this book chronicles another memorable visit to her Grandma’s home. As her granddaughter quoted in the last chapter, “I hadn’t expected much out of this particular Christmas since I was too old for toys and still 42 months from a learner’s permit. But it was the Christmas we always remembered.”

Curl up with a great book

Garden Grant Success Stories Our five Garden Grant recipients in 2013 touched the lives of hundreds of students through a wide variety of garden activities. Use of the grant monies varied from growing ethnic foods based on cultural preferences to expanding raised bed gardens to include biology, culinary arts and special education student projects. One

school partnered local college students, community volunteers and their school’s primary level classrooms to teach all generations together and share the bounty from their garden. Another school used “Grandparents Day” as the date to begin planting indoors in preparation for their outdoor garden. We commend Willow Bend,

Whitney Young, Thornton Fractional South, Dunne Technology and St. Johns Lutheran for introducing or expanding their student’s knowledge of agriculture through this program. Check our website at www.cookcfb.org in January to see next year’s grant application. Refer to Ag Literacy/Grants to find information.

After planting seeds, watering, fertilizing, transplanting seedlings, measuring growth, weeding, caging, trellising and harvesting, the garden season came to a close. Finally, students were able to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

St Johns student begin planting in their newly constructed raised-bed garden.

Kids Say It BestWe have enjoyed spending time in 4th Grade Classrooms throughout Cook County this fall.

Here are some comments we received from students following our field trips:“I learned a lot about agriculture. I learned it is important to the world because it’s where all our food comes from.”

“This was my favorite leksher ever.”“Now I think agriculture is very interesting. I don’t think it’s possible for anyone to be pre-occupied during your lesson you were so interesting.”

“I liked learning the process of wheat and the process of all the shipping and getting stuff to the store.”“I loved the bookmarks and I had lots of fun quizzing my parents. They knew every question, but so did I.”

“I learned that an anchor is the size of a football field.” (acre)“By the way, I’m going to be a farmer/producer when I grow up so that presentation was very helpful to me”

“I had a blast learning about agriculture.” Our presenters are anxious to visit all 4th grade classrooms in Cook County with our free one hour presentation.

Call today to book a visit in 2014. (New Part 2 Program on Ag & Nutrition)

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:Diane Merrion, Ag in the Classroom Coordinator

6438 Joliet Road, Countryside, IL [email protected]

Phone: 708-354-3276 fax: 708-579-6056

The hills are alive, with the sound of music

With songs they have sung for a thousand yearsThe hills fill my heart with the sound of music….

Yes, The Sound of Music is my favorite movie of all time. To my husband’s dismay, I know exactly when Sister Maria is going to belt out Climb Every Mountain. So when the announcement was made that Carrie Underwood was staring in the TV version of the movie, I wasn’t happy. Not that I don’t like Carrie Underwood, but why mess with Julie Andrews. A classic is a classic. To add fuel to the fire, I heard that they are making a Part Two of It’s a Wonderful Life. The original Zuzu is now in her 70’s and will come back as an angel. I don’t want Zuzu to be the angel,I want her to be the adorable daughter of George Baily. At this time of year, my sentimental side is in full gear. I so value the traditions of the holiday and of family. When I think of holiday meals, my mind goes back to foods that you usually only ate on the holidays. They were either too complicated to make all the time, too expensive to purchase or, most likely, only available at that time of the year. Each holiday growing up everyone was assigned ‘the dish’ they were supposed to bring. These were most likely JELLO mold (think lime with marshmallows), ambrosia (think oranges/coconut/pineapple/sour cream…and marshmallows), green bean casserole, rolls, salad, relish tray (pickles, black olives..), potatoes (scalloped was big in the day) and the host usually made the turkey and/or ham, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy and cake

or pies. They also had to set up the tables: adults and kids. Kids waited many years to move up to the adult table. As much as a spot at the ‘adult’ table was coveted, few actually chose to move up when the opportunity presented itself. I know time, brings change and sometimes it is for the better. Menus have changed and thankfully we don’t have the lime JELLO mold anymore. Using locally grown foods is ever so popular and cutting back on the starches and adding salads has to be healthier. Turkeys had their heyday of change (fried, injected with marinades, brined, smoked) and hams went from sliced at the table to spiral sliced and ready to go right from the package. I wonder what the holiday meals will look like 50 years from now. I sense I will survive the re-makes of holiday classics as long as they keep giving us the originals. The important part of the holidays for me is the family and friends, not the food, not the movies. As we come to the end of another year, it is my hope that you enjoy your family and friends this holiday season and relish in your own traditions or begin new ways of celebrating together. Whether you make old classic dishes or new creative recipes, it’s sure to taste good if you are with the people you love. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! P.S. Hollywood: Don’t mess with the ending of It’s a Wonderful Life if you ever re-make it.

Dear George, Remember no man is a failure who has friends. Thanks for the wings! Love Clarence.


Christmas Tree/Winter Word Search

You could win a products basket & movie tickets!

Complete the Word Search puzzle and your name will be entered into a drawing for 4 movie tickets! Deadline is the 15th of this month.

Mail to: Cook Co. Farm Bureau Ag Adventures Word Search

6438 Joliet Rd Countryside, IL 60525 Fax to: (708)579‐6056

Email to: [email protected]

Complete and send the puzzle all 12 months and your name is automatically entered into an “End of Year” drawing for an Agricultural Illinois Products Basket.

Name:__________________________________________

Address:_______________________________________

_______________________________________ Phone #:______________________________________ Membership #:_______________________________

(on front of paper above name/address)

AGRICULTURE ADVENTURES FOR FAMILIES

Decorations Evergreen Farmer Fir Harvest Ice skating Needles Ornament Pine Seedling

G E N U E J I R G N D H S H S

Z O N E J P Q M E K T T K S L

L X L I E M C E W T A H M R E

N W G E P R D X N R V P E L D

A O A L L L G E P P D E K E D

M I R T E U M R H A V E C Z I

W Q G S E A Y L E V G O Z P N

O Q K D N R Q K T V R S F I G

N S P R U C E V F A E L B M R

S W O N S E B D T T Y L S J Z

S U S O L S T I C E B A C Q N

Y E G Z F A O E R D H B G E C

Q R E O B N M E H S A W P F L

Q W H D S P M F E Q D O D E R

B I T J L R X H N O L N X K S

R J Z Z A I A Q R K K S V M T

I E A F S D N T S E V R A H R

F S Z C C O L G E B M M R T U

C X R A P T L F T G N U E B N

D Y W G N I T A K S E C I T K

Sledding Snow Snowballs Snowman Solstice Spruce Star Trunk Water Yulelog

Christmas tree cultivation is an agricultural, forestry, and horticultural occupation which in‐volves growing pine, spruce, and fir trees specifically for use as Christmas trees. A wide variety of pine and fir species are grown as Christmas trees, although a handful of varie‐ties stand out in popularity. In the United States, Douglas‐fir, Scots Pine, and Fraser Fir all sell well. Nineteenth century Americans used to cut their trees in nearby forests, but today most real Christmas trees are grown on farms as sustainable crops like corn or pumpkins. 98 percent of all Christmas trees are grown on farms, while only 2% are cut from the wild. To ensure that there are enough trees for harvest, growers plant one to three seedlings for every tree harvested. More than 2,000 trees are usually planted per acre and on average 1,000‐1,500 of these trees will survive. In the northern part of the country, perhaps only 750 trees will remain. Almost all trees require shearing to attain their Christmas tree shape and at six to seven feet, trees are ready for harvest. Can you believe it takes six to ten years of fighting heavy rain, wind, hail and drought to get a mature tree? Most Christmas trees are cut weeks before they get to a retail outlet and it is important to keep them watered thoroughly when they reach your home. In the first week, a Christmas tree in your home will consume as much as a quart of water per day. That’s a lot of water!

Last month’s winner of four movie tickets was :

Michael Danaher

Could you be next?!

Christmas tree farm in Iowa

Great Moments in Christmas Tree History • The use of evergreen trees to celebrate the winter season occurred before the birth of Christ. • The first decorated Christmas tree was in Riga, Latvia in 1510. • The first printed reference to Christmas trees appeared in Germany in 1531. • Besides evergreens, other types of trees such as cherry and hawthorns were used as Christmas trees in the past. • Using small candles to light a Christmas tree dates back to the middle of the 17th century. • In 1856 Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States, was the first President to place a Christmas tree in the White House. • Thomas Edison's assistant, Edward Johnson, came up with the idea of elec‐tric lights for Christmas trees in 1882. Christmas tree lights were first mass‐produced in 1890. • President Coolidge started the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on the White House lawn in 1923.

• The official Christmas tree tradition at Rockefeller Center began in 1933. Since 2004 the tree has been topped with a 550‐pound Swarovski Crystal star. And since 2007, the tree has been lit with 30,000 energy‐efficient LED's which are powered by solar panels.

• In 1963, the National Christmas Tree was not lit until December 22nd, because of a national 30‐day period of mourning following the assassination of President Kennedy.

Information provided by University of Illinois Extension.

All about Christmas...All about Christmas...All about Christmas...

Since 2009, Chicago's Christmas tree at Daley Plaza, has been a single tree donated by a Chicago-area family. This year's tree winner comes from the Moore Family in South Holland, IL and they will join Mayor Emanuel and Santa Claus at the Tree Lighting on November 26th.

This holiday season, be sure to visit one of our local tree farmers: McCarthy Farms Puckerville Farms 9442 W. Willow Ln. 13332 Bell Rd. Mokena, IL 60448 Lemont, IL 60439 Horcher’s Country Flowers 910 McHenry Rd. Wheeling, IL 60090 Visit Localfarmproducts.org to view a full listing of all local farmers who are selling Christmas trees this season!

Ginger, Gingerbread Man, and Gingerbread Houses

Ever wonder why you always see gingerbread men and gingerbread houses around Christmas time? What’s the connection? And how did gingerbread men and gingerbread houses even come about? Gingerbread has been around for a long time, but the recipes used to make it have changed considerably over the years. Initially gingerbread was made from breadcrumbs, ginger, and a sweetener, like honey. People dis-covered that ginger has preservative properties and used it accordingly. The recipe for gingerbread changed, and by the 15th century (the 1400s), the breadcrumbs had been replaced by flour. Honey was replaced with molasses. The biscuit became lighter. Some recipes made sweet, thin crisps of ginger and others were thicker and more biscuit-like.

Gingerbread was first made into figures (like people) in the 16th century (the 1500s). Queen Elizabeth I of England is credited with the first gingerbread men. She used to have gingerbread molded into the images of her favorite suitors and courtiers, and used to decorate them with gold leaf where they would then be eaten at royal feasts.

As for the connection between gingerbread and Christmas, of all the Christ-mas pastries, the gingerbread cookie was always the one most loved by early American children so it was a popular treat to serve around Christmas time. The tradition of baking the sweetly decorated houses began in Germany after the Brothers Grimm published their collection of German fairy tales in the early 1800s. Among the tales was the story of Hansel and Gretel. The houses became particularly popular during Christmas, a tradition that crossed the ocean with German immigrants. Pennsylvania, where many settled, remains a stronghold for the tradition. It is believed gingerbread was first baked in Europe at the end of the 11th century, when returning

Happy Holidays!

We hope you enjoyed our travels through the different regions in the U.S. that we covered each month. We look forward to all new Ag Adventures next year!


Memories trim (and trample) the tree

The first test of our marriage arrived with our first Christmas tree. I wanted the picture-perfect experience: New husband and wife strolling through the local tree farm. A beautiful, fragrant tree for our first Christmas. Big, falling snowflakes. Lots of smiles and laughter. Here’s what really happened: I cannot remember anything about that first experience except the trials of getting the tree in place. Keep in mind that my husband grew up with artificial trees. To this day, he tells relatives, friends and any married man of when he had to cut a board from the garage wall to solidify the “cheap tree stand” I purchased. I defended myself and said we used the same stand in my childhood. But telling your new husband how his father-in-law does the job only intensifies a stressful situation (to put it mildly). At the next post-Christmas sale, I bought a heavy-duty, steel stand with welded legs. I earned some respect, and he still cuts real trees for me. Meanwhile, I gave in to his desire for colored lights, and I let him back away from tree decorating at his leisure. Christmas time has arrived again and trees begin lighting front windows. Most any type of tree emits holiday cheer. Yet I love to have our family look for and select real ones. Ones that we get to cut down from a tree farm. I prove better equipped for this annual adventure. I promote swift choices before the kids get tired and my husband turns unpleasantly quiet.

Creating memories for our kids motivates the hunt. But it’s also the “farm” lure. I like to think the families at the tree farm relate to our own. They grow a different crop, but they work alongside one another, dedicate long days during harvest season and feel connected to the land. I assume they want the family to share their farm legacy with the next generation. And I hope they find satisfaction in the memories they create for families like ours. Despite all our tree tribulations, our love is stronger than ever and we put a real Christmas tree in place every December. Without a doubt, we have plenty of humorous stories to share. Like when the tree stand ran out of water and the fully decorated tree needed re-cut. Another time, pine needles caused a $60 repair on my vacuum cleaner. But trees have been with us from our first day as husband and wife. A tree farm that once operated just miles from our farm gifted us a tree for our summer-time wedding. We called it the “wedding tree,” a 14-foot scotch pine that married my enjoyment of Christmas trees with the traditional gift table. Guests placed gifts under the tree, which was decorated with white lights, silver ribbon and glass ornaments. My groom, with his artificial-tree upbringing, should have known then that compromise was ahead.

About the Author: Joanie Stiers, a wife and mother of two, farms with family on a grain farm in West-Central Illinois.

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Cook County Farm Bureau Teams Up with Culver’s

Culver’s of Tinley Park hosted a ‘Thank a Farmer’ event on November 10th along with Cook CFB to celebrate the connection between food and farmers.

Farm tractors were parked in front of the Culver’s in Tinley Park for the event.

Cook CFB volunteers, Janet McCabe and Beth Christian made moo masks with families at Culver’s in Tinley Park as part of Culver’s Thank a Farmer event.

As part of Culver’s of Tinley Park’s Thank a Farmer event with Cook CFB, Culver’s of Tinley Park donated copies of Clarabelle to the Cook CFB Foundation for students attending the Summer Day Camp program. Pictured left to right are Cook CFB board member, Gerry Kopping; Culver’s of Tinley Park Manager Shawn Staley; Culver’s of Tinley Park Owner Jack Rush; and Cook CFB President Jim Gutzmer.


PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE

Manifolds, Manolos, and Manure Five weeks after beginning the fine art of passing campaign petitions, Cook County Commissioners unanimously approved President

Toni Preckwinkle’s Fiscal Year 2013- 2014 budget proposal sans any new taxes or fees. Since Preckwinkle assumed the reins of County government in 2010, Commissioner Bill Beavers had historically voted against any and all budget proposals introduced by Preckwinkle. Earlier this year Beavers was asked to resign after being convicted of tax evasion. His replacement, Commissioner Stanley Moore supported Preckwinkle’s proposal. In April of this year, Moore assumed Beaver’s vacated fourth district seat. Moore,

a lesser-known name but local favorite, is a former deputy director at the Illinois Department of Transportation. He also challenged state Representative Monique Davis before opening a restaurant in Chicago’s 21st Ward. Moore will face his first election as Cook County Commissioner on March 18, 2014. However, it’s the race to fill Cook County Commissioner Earlean Collin’s vacant first district seat that’s heating up well before the holiday season. Collins has hinted since the 2012 remap that she wouldn’t be running for re-election. While her reasons for not running remain unclear she’s blamed everyone from her fellow commissioners to the media for her legislative agenda stalling. Among the heap to replace Collins is former Chicago Alderman and convicted felon Isaac “Ike” Carothers. State law bans Carothers from seeking a seat on the City Council. Bans

on felons do not apply to state and federal office hence why Coy Pugh, a convicted felon, was able to serve in the legislature before becoming a lobbyist and why disgraced former Congressman Mel Reynolds twice lost for Congress after his stint in prison. Carothers will likely face numerous objections to his candidacy. Prior to his stint in prison, he served as alderman for 11 years and chaired what is now the Public Safety Committee. He resigned in 2010 and plead guilty to bribery and tax fraud charges. Carothers backed a zoning change in exchange for $40,000 worth of work on his home. His father also spent time in prison after attempting to extort remodeling work in his Ward office in exchange for building permits. Also in the heap is Forest Park Commissioner Rory Hoskins. Although Hoskins hasn’t formally passed petitions, he has been passing his name around to Cook County Recorder of Deeds Karen Yarbrough, State

Representative Camille Lilly, and State Senators Don Harmon and Kimberly Lightford. Austin native Blake Sercye announced his candidacy earlier this fall. Sercye an associate at Jenner & Block will take on west side resident Brenda Smith and attorney Richard Boykin in addition to Carothers and Hoskins. In addition to practicing law, Boykin is also Congressman Danny Davis’ former chief of staff. He’s already taken some heat for a press release issued earlier this fall claiming that he’s been endorsed by local Democratic Committeemen who now claim that no such endorsement was ever made. In 2010, Collins trounced Green Party candidate Ronald Lawless by 50,000 votes. Lawless has again announced his candidacy. Regardless of who runs for Cook County Commissioner, the 2014 local elections will play a key role in shaping the landscape of the County.

By Bona Heinsohn

Policy Question of the MonthName one County Commissioner who met with Public Policy Team

members during Lobby Day.Email your answer to [email protected] or [email protected] or call (708)354-3276 to be entered into a drawing for a $25 gift card.

NOVEMBER’S WINNER for the Public Policy Question of the Month was Billy Jabaay. Congratulations!

November’s question: With whom did Cook CFB traveled to Stephenson County with to tour a chicken farm, beef farm, and dairy farm?Answer: Representative Fran Hurley

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:Bona Heinsohn, Director of Governmental Affairs and Public Relations

6438 Joliet Rd., Countryside, Il [email protected] phone: 708.354.3276 fax: 708.579.6056

Please visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/Cook.County.Farm.Bureau.IL to be updated on agricultural issues and Cook County Government.

Cook CFB sent the following letter in regards to US EPA’s recently released Water Body Connectivity Report. The report will be used as a tool to justify a rulemaking that seeks to define the legal term “waters of the US.” Farm Bureau is concerned that the report lays the foundation for the US EPA to significantly expand its regulatory reach and effectively delete the word “navigable” from the Clean Water Act. Cook County Farm Bureau® is a 46,000-member organization dedicated to working for the interests of farmers in northeastern Illinois. We are very concerned that EPA is again taking steps to expand its control over water, and therefore are writing to comment on EPA’s draft report: Connectivity of Streams and Wetlands to Downstream Waters: A Review and Synthesis of the Scientific Evidence. We find this report disturbing because it was apparently developed with little purpose other than to justify the broadest possible expansion of EPA authority to regulate all waters. Contrary to

being a “scientific” document, it appears to be driven by policy considerations that are not only at odds with the existing Clean Water Act but with two Supreme Court decisions that explicitly said that there are limits to Federal jurisdiction. The Supreme Court told EPA that it can only regulate waters that have a “significant nexus” to federally regulated waters. Yet this report does not even attempt to address the important question of what is significant and what is not. The draft report fails to make a scientific distinction between aquatic resources that are important and other marginal/unimportant non-aquatic landscape features that may puddle or carry water during a rain. From a farmer prospective, the review and literature cited appears to be nothing more than a rather basic compilation of articles that ultimately describes how water f lows down hill. None of the conclusions found in the literature review show whether the connections are “significant” or how the existence of connections support

regulatory or policy decisions related to navigable waters. Thus, the report simply ignores the most important scientific point that needs clarification. Another concern is that the draft report identifies only the presence of connections, but cannot differentiate or characterize the difference between something that is an aquatic stream from a common ditch, gully, swale or erosion channel. Moreover, from a legal standpoint, there is virtually no justification for concluding that such connections are “significant.” Farm ditches in particular are critical to farming and ranching operations and this draft report further muddles the issue of whether EPA can regulate them as streams. Without a discussion of how ditches are distinguished from streams or whether ditches are considered streams, the draft report appears to have little or no practice scientific value, in particular as a basis for regulatory actions. If you need any additional information, please feel free to contact me at (708) 254-3276 or via email at [email protected].

Farm Bureau Responds to US EPA’s Water Body Connectivity Report

Leaders ask Cook County Congressional Delegation to Support our Nation’s Waterways Farm Bureau leaders sent the following letter to Cook County Congressional members regarding the Water Resources Reform Development Act: H.R. 3080, the Water Resources Reform and Development Act authorizes federal spending on water resources projects, including construction and maintenance of locks and dams and our nation’s harbors. H.R. 3080 also authorizes dredging, f lood control, and reservoir projects. H.R. 3080 does require future appropriations and we strongly support an increase in the barge fuel tax to replenish the Inland Waterway Trust Fund, which funds new lock and dam projects. The legislation also allows for public-private partnerships while streamlining both economic and environmental reviews of new projects. Modern and efficient barge transportation is important to not only downstate Illinois but also to the Chicagoland region. The more items that are moved by barge, the fewer items moving along the area’s roadways. H.R. 3080 overwhelmingly passed the House by a vote of 417-3 and now goes to conference committee with the Senate to reconcile the differences between it and the Senate version, S. 601, which was approved in May.

County Commissioners Receive Locally Grown Produce

Public Policy Team members presented Cook County Commissioners with locally grown, Cook County produce during Lobby Day in October. Lobby Day is an annual program designed to heighten Cook County Farm Bureau®’s relationship with County Commissioners. During Lobby Day, Farm Bureau members met with Commissioners Jerry Butler, Stanley Moore, Joan Patricia Murphy, Jesus Garcia, Edwin Reyes, Peter Silvestri, John Daley, John Fritchey, Larry Suffredin, Gregg Goslin, Timothy Schneider, Jeffrey Toboloski, and Elizabeth Gorman. Members also met with Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle. In addition to discussing the President’s budget proposal, leaders discussed unincorporated areas, horse/rider tags, urban farms, and the Forest Preserve District’s budget proposal. Produce bags included: grape jelly, honey, apples, onions, and green peppers.

Public Policy Team Chairman Pat Horcher, pictured right, presented Cook County Commissioner Larry Suffredin with a bag of Cook County produce during Lobby Day.

Public Policy Team members, Janet McCabe (pictured left) and Kim Morton (pictured right) met with Commissioner John Fritchey prior to a Wednesday morning meeting. McCabe and Morton presented Commissioner Fritchey with a bag of locally grown, Cook County produce as part of Lobby Day. Lobby Day is an annual program designed to heighten Farm Bureau’s relationship with Cook County Commissioners.

Public Policy Team Chair, Pat Horcher, (pictured left) discusses Farm Bureau policy with State Representative Michelle Mussman (pictured right) during this year’s Member Dinner in Palatine. Representative Mussman along with Representative Tom Morrison and Cook County Commissioners Timothy Schneider and Dan Patlak (Board of Review) joined Farm Bureau members at this year’s Member Dinner.


MEMBER RELATIONS

Cook County Financial

Representatives of the MonthThe Financial Representative of the Month program is designed by Country Financial Agency Managers of Cook County to recognize overall Insurance Leaders in Life, Disability, Auto, Home, and Health production during the month. The agent earns the award through efforts to provide quality service to existing and new clients. Listed below are the various agents honored by their agency manager with the Financial Representative of the Month designation.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Katie Smith, Director of Membership

6438 Joliet Road, Countryside, Il [email protected] phone: 708.354.3276

fax:708.579.6056

Cook County Farm Bureau’s Member Service Center is now on Facebook. We will keep you up-to-date on all upcoming events, new membership ben-efits and programs. Look us up by searching “Cook County Farm Bureau Membership/Benefits”

Ilir Numani Chicago North Agency, Vicki Nygren, Agency ManagerIlir Numani has been named Chicago North Career Financial Representative

of the month for October 2013. His office is located at 4708 N. Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago, IL. His phone number is (773) 427-4364. Ilir has been a Financial Representative since April 2005.

Matt Whitsett Chicago North Agency, Vicki Nygren, Agency ManagerMatt Whitsett has been named Chicago North Employee Financial Representative

of the month for October 2013. His office is located at 1426 W. Fullerton Avenue in Chicago, IL. His phone number is (773)472-1820. Matt has been a Financial Representative since November 2009.

Silver Castillo Chicago South Agency, Marc Rogala, Agency ManagerSilver Castillo has been named Chicago South Employee Financial Representative

of the month for October 2013. His office is located at 6239 S. Archer Ave in Chicago, IL. His phone number is (773) 284-9000. Silver has been a Financial Representative since November 2010.

Bill Asimakopoulos Countryside Agency, Mike Flynn, Agency ManagerBill Asimakopoulos has been named Career Financial Representative of the

Month for October 2013. His office is located at 737 Plainfield Rd. in Darien, IL. His phone number is (630) 887-7788. Bill has been a Financial Representative since March 1999. His email address is [email protected].

Tony Munno Countryside Agency, Mike Flynn, Agency ManagerTony Munno has been named Employee Financial Representative of the Month

for October 2013. Tony’s office is located at 6438 Joliet Rd. in Countryside, IL. His phone number is (708) 352-5555. Tony has been a Financial Representative since September 2012. His email address is [email protected].

Jeff Stein Northshore Agency, Mike Cerf, Agency ManagerJeff Stein has been named Career Financial Representative of the Month for

October 2013. His office is located at 801 Skokie Blvd, Ste 111 in Northbrook, IL. His phone number is (847) 498-1205. Jeff has been a Financial Representative since July 2004.

Kurt Mass Northshore Agency, Mike Cerf, Agency Manager Kurt Mass has been named Employee Representative of the Month for October

2013. His office is located at 25 S. Prospect Ave in Park Ridge, IL. His phone number is (847) 696-9484. Kurt has been a Financial Representative since April 2013.

Tom Geraghty Orland Park Agency, Cary Tate, Agency ManagerTom Geraghty has been named Career Financial Representative of the Month

for October 2013. His office is located at 5003 W. 95th St. in Oak Lawn. His phone number is (708)425-9700. Tom Geraghty has been a Financial Rep since December 1982.

Troy Vidovic Orland Park Agency, Cary Tate, Agency ManagerTroy Vidovic has been named Employee Financial Representative of the Month

for October 2013. His office is located at 12130 S. Harlem Ave, Unit A in Palos Heights, IL. His phone number is (708)361-3665. Troy Vidovic has been a Financial Rep since February 2010.

Bill Schutz Rolling Meadows Agency, Jerry Anderson, Agency ManagerBill Schutz has been named Career Financial Representative of the Month

for October 2013. Bill’s office is located at 51 W. Seegers Road, Ste. 1 in Arlington Heights, IL. His phone number is (847)690-1980. Bill has been an agent since November 1985.

Kathy Spiewak Schaumburg Agency, Jack Smith, Agency ManagerKathy Spiewak has been named Career Financial Representative of the Month for

October 2013. Kathy’s office is located at 11 W. Wise Rd., in Schaumburg, IL. Her phone number is (847) 716-1010. Kathy has been a Financial Representative since February 2007.

Kelly Calandro Schaumburg Agency, Jack Smith, Agency ManagerKelly Calandro has been named Employee Financial Representative of

the Month for October 2013. Kelly’s office is located at 2435 W. Schaumburg Rd. in Schaumburg, IL. Her phone number is (847) 891-6792. Kelly has been a Financial Representative since June 2009.

Tim Van Zuidam South Holland Agency, Jeff Orman, Agency ManagerTim Van Zuidam has been named Career Financial Representative of the

Month for October 2013. Tim’s office is located at 18503 Torrence Ave in Lansing, IL. His phone number is (708) 414-0006. Jim has been a Financial Representative since October 1991.

Elliot Day South Holland Agency, Jeff Orman, Agency ManagerElliot Day has been named Employee Financial Representative of the Month

for October 2013. Elliot’s office is located at 4749 Lincoln Mall Dr, Ste 310 in Matteson, IL. His phone number is (708) 679-1870. Elliot has been a Financial Representative since May 2009.

Don’t forget your stocking stuffers this holiday season!

AMC/LOEWS/KERASOTES THEATRES Silver Tickets $7.00 each

Ticket is restricted during the first 10 days of a motion picture’s release. Gold Tickets $8.50 each

This ticket can be used on all movies including NEW releases.

REGAL THEATRES $7.50 each

VIP Super Saver ticket is valid after the first 12 days the movie has been released.

MARCUS THEATRES Silver Tickets $7.00 each

Ticket is void when “Extra Special Attraction” OR “Movie Fun Coupons Not Accepted” appear in newspaper ads AND is not valid on shows that start after 5:30 p.m. on Saturdays.

Platinum Tickets $8.00 each This ticket can be used on all movies including NEW releases.

Tickets can be purchased directly from our office located at 6438 Joliet Road in Countryside, IL OR you can order tickets over the phone using a Visa, MasterCard,

or Discover credit card and tickets will be mailed out to you free of charge.

Cook County Farm Bureau Nights

SATURDAY, DEC. 7, AT 7 P.M. VS. Oklahoma City Barons

Sunday, DEC. 22, AT 4 P.M. VS. Milwaukee Admirals

Sunday, DEC. 29, 2013 AT 4 P.M.VS. Charlotte Checkers

FREE HAT FOR THE GROUP LEADER OF GROUPS 15PEOPLE OR LARGER!

# oftickets = _______ at $32.00 = $ _______ GOLD SEATING(rows 2-7 off of the glass)

ENJOY GREAT SEATS AT SPECIAL

GROUP PRICES

*$38.00 TICKETS FOR $32.00

*$28.50 TICKETS FOR $22.50

*$21.50 TICKETS FOR $15.50

*$18.50 TICKETS FOR $12.50

*Indicates day-of-game price

SEE CHICAGOWOLVES.COM/TICKETS FOR

FURTHER INFORMATION

# oftickets = _______ at $22.50 = $ _______ ORANGE SEATING(lower level center ice) HOW TO ORDER

# oftickets = _______ at $15.50 = $ _______GREEN SEATING(lower level corner/end OR 2ndlevel sides – based on availability) BY PHONE:Stefanie Starck(847)832-1939

BY MAIL:# of tickets = _______ at $12.50 = $ _______ BLUE SEATING (2nd level corner/end) Chicago Wolves

Attn: CCFB, c/o Stefanie Starck2301 Ravine WayGlenview, IL 60025

Game(s) of choice: ____________________

BY FAX:(847) 724-1652, Attn: Stefanie StarckTOTAL ENCLOSED: $

This flyer cannot beused in conjunction with any other ticket offer.All payments must be received by NOON

on the day prior to your chosen game.

ACCT. NO: 47-11006 G#4(APON)

Name: ___ _____________________________________________________

Address: __ ___________________________________________________ _

City/State/Z p: __________________________________________________i

Please make all checks payable to:CHICAGO WOLVES

Email:_________________________________________________________

FOR MORE INFORMATION,CONTACT Stefanie Starckat

(847) 832-1939 [email protected]

Phone (C):_______________________(W):___________________________

/ AMX / MC/ VS No.: ______________________________________

Card Exp.: ____________________Sec. Code: ________________________

Billing Address: __________________________________________________


ClassifiedsAll items listed are for the accommodation of the membership and without guarantee of the publisher.

MiscellaneousColeman Powermate Compressor, maintenance free, oil-less, single stage, direct drive, electric air compressor. 5hp, 20 gallon, 95-125 psi working pressure.Dual line with two gauges. Manual included. Never been used. Asking $250. Also have a piano for sale, great sound when tuned, will need tuning. Pretty cabinet with matching bench. Some physical damage to cabinet finish. Asking $400. Located in Downers Grove for pick-up. Will consider offers and can send photos upon request. Call 630-308-3167 if interested.

Set of extra heavy duty homemade car ramps $30. 325’ #8 copper stranded wire $55. 1 ¼” conduit bender $120. Please call 708-614-8148.

1928 American Flyer “Trail Blazer” #1471 wide gauge electric train. Seldom used. Original owner. In original cartons and main carton. Immaculate $2,995. Please call 708-354-5154.

Hammond B-3 organ with 2 Leslie speakers. Showroom floor condition. $10,000 OBO. Call 815-790-1716.

K-12 cutoff saw complete motor only with cluth $50. Exer/mate exerciser stepper $50. Elliptical exerciser Nordic-track, model CK 925. Little Oscar portable crane, model 90B $70. Best offers. Call 815-485-5901.

2 mens leather jackets: dark brown size x-large $25, black size large $25. Excellent condition. Also have ladies black ¾ coat, fur lining, cuffs & collar. Exc. condition. Please call 815-462-6930.

Americana 14.4 cu. ft., top freezer refrigerator, black, used less than a year. Price is $225. Please call 708-389-3371.

CORT Electric guitar Model C200. Like new, rarely played. $90 with soft case. Call 847-464-0686.

Snow blower, Ariens STS + 2. Also have lawn mower, Lawn Boy Gold Series. $325 for two. Call John at 708-813-3558.

Outside tank gas pump (new)/used about a month. $300 OBO. Slot machine $100. Jacobson tractor w/snow plow and pull cart $200. Sprayer, used once $100. Call cell at 847-815-5584.

45-50 gallon aquarium, meant to stand in a corner, needs cleaning, but in good shape otherwise. Comes w/black stand. Please call or email for pics 312-231-2239 or [email protected], located in Rolling Meadows $75 OBO.

Motorized Vehicles and Accessories

1983 Maxicraft tri-hull bass boat; 14 ft, full cover, 25 hp Johnson, extra prop, Tee-Nee tilt trailer, oars, nets, minnow traps, many extras. Garage kept, original owner, immaculate. 91 yr old may have to go to senior home. Asking $3,685. Please call 708-354-5154.

2003 (4) place Snowmobile Trailer made by sledbed. All Aluminum construction, rear ramp, front slush guard drive off ramps, new tires, low usage. Call Mark at 708-935-1377 or Don at 708-670-1332.

Thor (Four Winds) Chateau, 31’ Class C RV. One owner, excellent condition, gently used. Great mechanical and esthetic condition; meticulously maintained. Winterized. Ford F450 w/hitch. Sleeps six +. Only 60,000 miles. Call Karen at 847-588-3601.

Cadillac 1977 Coupe, triple burgundy, xtra nice $7,500. Call 708-895-2713.

Tractors/ Farm Equipment

Snowblower’s, tractors, chainsaws, generators “all power equipment. Repair, parts, service – pickup/delivery service. Lockport, IL. Please call with questions 815-588-1200 or 630-202-4940.

All steel simplicity tractor. New Briggs & Straton engine, has less than 48 hours. 48 inches 3 blad mower deck. 42 inches snow thrower. Tire chains and weights for rear wheels. $1,400. Contact John at 630-837-6404.

Vacation Rentals/Sales

5 Star Resort 3br/2ba condo 2 miles from

Disney World Orlando. Rental rates from $80/

night. Call 630-853-7669 or go to www.vrbo.

com/218673.

South Haven Mi. Area, 20.6 wooded acre,

year round retreat. Hunt deer and turkey.

Remodeled brick home featuring; two

bedrooms, two bathrooms, living room w/

fieldstone fireplace, dining room, knotty pine

three season room, oversized two car attached

garage, partially finished walkout basement.,

hot tub, 22x26 metal storage building w/8’

door and many more amenities. Located on

Kal-Haven Recreational Trail. Just 2 hours from

the south suburbs. Call 708-704-2266.

Florida Keys condo for rent. Coral Lagoon, Unit

#18, in Marathon FL. 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, full

kitchen, washer/dryer, pool, use of boat slip.

Call 305-289-2212.

Coconut Bay Condo for rent/sale. Unit #29

(Red Week) in Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304. 3

Bedroom, 2 bath, full kitchen, washer/dryer,

pool, boat slip. On the beach front. Call 708-

287-5519.

Real Estate For Sale/Rent

House for sale in Country Club Hills, IL. Ranch

style house, 3-4 BR, one bath newly remodeled.

3 ½ car garage, 1,780 Sq. ft, 100” x 200 corner

lot. Deck, 8’ x 12’ shed, 20’ x 22’ family room,

11’ x 15’ separate dining room. New roof,

garden atrium with mature trees. 18500 John

Ave. $138,800. Call Mr. Hayden for more

information at 630-325-6466.

Cottage apartment in Calumet City at Senior

Complex, all utilities included $775 per month.

Call 708-895-2713.

For rent, newer country Beecher home,

3 bedrooms, 2 baths, garage, stove, fridge,

washer/dryer, central air. Please call 708-772-

3203.

For sale 40 acre farm, no buildings. 1,000 feet

south of proposed 3rd Peotone Airport. If

interested, make an offer. On Crawford, just

north of Beecher Peotone blacktop.

WantedWanted to buy: Old space toys, robots, dolls,

figures, posters, etc. Also, old monster kits,

toys, etc. Please call 708-361-8230.

How can I help you? Oak Lawn woman willing to help with various tasks including: light house cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, appointment transportation, adult and/or child care. Very reasonable rates. Call Kathy at 708-942-9766.

Wanted to buy: Original Western painting & sculptures. Fair prices paid. Contact Dick @ [email protected] or 847-899-8406.

Your coin collections and wheat pennies. Top dollar paid for your coins. Call for a quote. Get some cash back in your pocket. Call Ken the Coin Collector at 630-863-3648.

We buy old cars: garage/ barn finds, project cars and basket case cars. Any car from 1920’s -1970’s. British cars including MG TC, TD, TF , MGA, MGB, Morgan, Triumphs and RILEYS. Any old car you are tired of working on, give us a call at 630-985-8895.

Old guitars, mandolins, banjos. Brand: Gibson, Martin, National, etc. Also, older drum set 708-361-8230.

WANTED: A Christmas Tree and new or gently used toys and games for nearly 100 foster children, ages 1 to 21, and 40 non-ward, homeless youth, ages 18-25. Please help these homeless children and youth, who have been abandoned, abused, or kicked out of their homes, have a happy holiday! Call: Anne Holcomb, 773.699.4711 or email at: [email protected]

FREE Classified Adsfor Cook County Farm Bureau members

All Cook County Farm Bureau members may run four non-commercial classified ads annually free in the Cooperator. Ads must be in our office by the 15th of each month. Ads received after the 15th will be in the following month’s paper.

Category: o For Sale Misc. o For Sale Other o For Rent o Wanted

Name ____________________________________________________________________________

Farm Bureau # __________________________________ Phone ______________________________

Please be sure to include a contact phone number where interested buyers can contact you. Attach your ad to this form (typed or written) and please PRINT CLEARLY.

Mail this form and attached ad to: Cook County Farm Bureau, 6438 Joliet Rd, Countryside, IL 60525.

You can also fax your ad to (708)579-6056 or email to [email protected] ad rate: $.75 per word; $15.00 minimum.

“502,000” is the number of

Cooperators sent to households in the last year!

It’s no wonder the classified ad section is so popular

with our members!

The Cooperator, official publication of the Cook County Farm Bureau, does accept paid advertising. A copy of the rate card may be accessed at www.cookcfb.org in News and Views

or call the CCFB office at 708.354.3276 for a copy. The publication goes to more than 40,000 households each month.

IAACU Money Clip: ALL ABOUT CREDIT SCORE SERIES - PART 1 We all know that any lending institution is going to use a person’s credit score as a basis for approving a loan, and to determine what their interest rate will be. To many of us that credit score is just a number, and the higher the better. But what is the credit score really? What information determines what that number will be? 35% of your score is Payment History. It looks at the payments on all of your accounts, and is the biggest factor in your score. Missing one payment can lower your score 60 to 70 points, and can take 24 months of on-time payments to erase one 30 day late payment. 30% of your score is Capacity. The amount you owe is as important as how you pay your bills. This includes both installment loans and revolving limits. 15% of your score is Length of Credit. This is the length of your credit history, or the length of time specific accounts have been open. Many people think that closing old accounts will improve their score, but this will actually have a negative impact. More weight is given to longer history, so leaving those older

accounts open is better.

IAACU Money Clip: ALL ABOUT CREDIT SCORE SERIES - PART 2 The remainder is: 10 % New Credit. This is new debt that you have accumulated in the last 12 to 18 months. It also considers whether you have taken on new credit that can cause you to over extend yourself. 10% Types of Credit. To get the most out of this category you should have a diverse credit history that includes credit cards, car loans, student loans, and mortgages. While a lot of information is contained in your credit score it is not always the big picture. There is some exclusion, such as your race, national origin, gender, or criminal record. It does not in-clude debt ratio, income, length of residence at current address, length of employment, current employment status, marital status, or whether you receive public aid. Even though these factors are left out, some of them help determine what loans and interest you are qualified for. Knowing where the score comes from is only half the battle.

Watch for parts 3-5 next month!

IAACU Money Clip: ALL ABOUT CREDIT SCORE SERIES - PARTS 1 & 2

Food Checkout Day 2014Continued from Page 1.

Cart Sponsor $250 Includes cart signs at Chicago and Oak Lawn grocery store events. Help us race to fill Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana’s pantries by sponsoring a cart during the Chicago food plate scavenger hunt and Oak Lawn shopping spree. Shopping carts will be used to transport food and cleaning supplies from the store to the Chicago House after the scavenger hunt and from the Oak Lawn store to the trailer after the shopping spree. Cart sponsors will be listed in all publications and mailings associated with Food Checkout Day.

Weeks Worth of Meals for a House Family $150 Ronald McDonald House Charities® of

Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana cares for families during their most difficult time, when someone they love is ill. Help the House to provide a home cooked meal to families whose child is receiving treatment at a nearby hospital by donating a weeks worth of meals for a House family.

Countdown For the weeks prior to Food Checkout Day, Farm Bureau invites any sponsors, organization or group of individuals to submit a picture for use on social media to help us countdown the days to Food Checkout Day. For more information contact Bona Heinsohn at the Cook County Farm Bureau® at (708) 354-3276 or [email protected]. All proceeds will be donated to Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana.

PLEASE MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO, “COOK COUNTY FARM BUREAU®”

___ $500 “Books Sponsor” ___ $250 “Cart Sponsor” ___ $150 “Weeks Worth of Meals for a House Family”

___ Other amount (Indicate which level you are purchasing)

Company/Individual Name ________________________________________________ (Written as you wish it to appear in publications or on signage)

Contact Person ________________________________________________________

Phone Number _____________________ Email _______________________________

Mailing Address ________________________________________________________

City _____________________________________ State ____ Zip Code ____________

If affiliated with a Country Financial Agency, please indicate ________________________

If interested in participating in the 2014 social media “Countdown” to Food Checkout Day, please

indicate ____________________________________________________________________


2014 Foundation Scholarship Applications

Now Being Accepted

From Your Cook County Farm Bureau Board and Staff

Merry Christmas

Front Row: Janet McCabe, Ruth Zeldenrust, Jim Bloomstrand, Dan Biernacki, Jim Gutzmer (President) Back Row: Mike Horcher, Gerry Kopping, Harry Stuenkel, Mike Rauch (Vice President), Mark Yunker, Pat Horcher (Secretary‐Treasurer), Cliff Harms

The Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation’s Scholarship Program continues to grow each year as the number of applicants increase. “Our members are realizing that an agricultural career provides broad and exciting possibilities” explains Jim Gutzmer, Foundation President. And what is an agricultural career? It is a chosen pursuit or profession related to the broad area of producing, marketing, manufacturing, transporting, studying, teaching, and developing food, fiber, fuel and pharmacy products originating from the farm. Examples of agricultural careers include horticulturist, food scientist, animal nutritionist, genetic engineering, farmer, veterinarian, commodity broker, dietitian, turf producer, agricultural engineer and the list goes on and on. Perhaps you may wish to check out the broad and rewarding possibilities with one out of every four jobs in the United States related to agriculture. The Foundation is proud to announce the 16th Annual Agricultural Scholarship Program. The Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation is offering college students the opportunity to start or continue his/her higher education with a scholarship. Last year, the Foundation provided ten scholarships ranging from $1,000.00 - $2,500 a piece. The Board will name the top applicant as the Howard Paarlberg Excellence in Agriculture Scholarship recipient. The Foundation will award a scholarship (s) to college students pursuing agriculturally related fields of study. The Conserv FS FFA Scholarship for $1,000 will also be offered to a High School Senior in an approved FFA Program. The Foundation Board has set the following criteria for the scholarship program…• Applications are available at the Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation office located at 6438 Joliet Road in Countryside, Illinois. We will also send applications upon request by calling 708-354-3276 or they can be printed out on the Foundation page of www.cookcfb.org.• Applications must be completed and submitted to the CCFB Foundation by February 20th, 2014. Late applications will not be considered.• All applicants must be members or dependents of members in good standing with the Cook County Farm Bureau for at least one year. (Except for the Conserv FS FFA Award)• All applicants must be high school graduates accepted for enrollment by, or currently enrolled at, an accredited college, university, or community college.• All applicants must be pursuing a field of study in agriculture, agri-business, or an agriculturally related major with a focus on an ag-related career.• Scholarships will be awarded following application evaluation for exceptional academic ability, financial need, demonstrated interest in agriculture, evidence of self-help, and character.There is no clear answer to the question we sometimes are asked, “Is …..an agricultural career? The Foundation board evaluates each application on its own merit and uses additional criteria of goals, past experience, and the agricultural connections to the career to determine eligibility,” indicated Bob Rohrer, Foundation Executive Director.

For more information or an application, please contact the Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation at (708)354-3276 or print an application out from our website at www.cookcfb.org/cook-cfb-foundation/scholarships

The fall season is the time in which the major fundraising for the CCFB Foundation occurs. The Board of Directors thanks our many supporters and generous members for your wonderful support.

Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation Thanks You for Your Support!

Silent Auction DonorsBeth ChristianBob and Jayne RohrerCarol & Don YunkerChicago BearsChicago CubsChicago White SoxClassic Party RentalCliff HarmsCook County SheriffCook-DuPage Beekeeper AssocCountry Fin-Agency MgrsDan & Karen BiernackiDelta SonicDennis Holtz Doug PorterEli’s CheesecakeFamily 4-Pass AdmissionGary & Berta RohrerGerry & Linda KoppingGrand Victoria Casino Hollywood Park Horcher FarmsIAA Credit UnionIAAA, Brian BrownIFB, Ken KashianJames & Kathy BrandauJim & Karen GutzmerJim & Kathy BloomstrandJoe & Janet McCabeJoliet SlammersJulie MichaelsKane County CougarsLansing CleanersLansing CleanersLou Malnati’s PizzeriaMargie Hoekstra

Mark & Heidi YunkerMSI Park PressPRP Wines Int’lQuillRegal EntertainmentRobert & Shirley HeineShedd AquariumSheri LatashTim StuenkelWagner FarmWalts Food StoreWindy City Thunderbolts

Silent AuctionHigh BiddersAline & Fred Resner Andy Anderson Becca Biernacki Carol Yunker Debbie Voltz Diane Merrion Don Bettenhausen Donna Bettenhausen Eillen Meyers Esther Goebbert Fran Andersen Fred Resner Fred Ruckauf Harry Stuenek Heidi Yunker J Krueger Jack Smith Jeff Orman Jerry Anderson Jim Bloomstrand Jim Goebbert

Jim Gutzmer Joe McCabe Joy Hommerding Karen Biernacki Karen Senne Kathy Brandau Kathy Louder Linda Reckamp Marc Rogala Marlene Krist Mary Bavier Mary Mielcarz Melanie Paffumi Mike Bavier Mike Rauch Pat Horcher Pavel & Sheri Latash Richard Mielcarz Roger Freeman Scott Halpin Stephanie Harms Theresa Banks Tim Schneider

Larger Cash DonorsCarol and Don YunkerDan and Karen BiernackiDebbie VoltzDonna and Sam Nykaza-JonesHarry StuenkelJim and Esther GoebbertJoanne and Michael ZaryLloyd and Marilyn BrandauMichael RauchRobert and Jayne Rohrer

Thanks also to the many members who chose to add a dollar to your annual dues payment!

The Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation uses donations for scholarship programs for students pursuing agricultural careers. The organization’s nationally recognized Ag-in-the-Classroom Program also benefits from these donations through teaching fourth graders the importance of food and how it ends up on their table. Key programs sponsored by the Foundation for enhanced agricultural literacy include:• FFA Leadership Academy• Ag Days at Chicago High School for Ag Sciences• Teacher’s Summer Ag Institutes• IAITC Teacher’s Conference.

Thank you on behalf of the CCFB Foundation Board of Directors!

Total Proceeds from Generosity:$7,733

Eligible Farm Bureau members can purchase bail bond cards through the Cook County Farm Bureau for only $5 per person. The Bail Bond application form is printed on the back of the dues notice. Bail bond cards are good for a year and expire November 6th of each year. Bail bond cards are available to members

who are licensed drivers and whose 2013-14 Farm Bureau membership dues are in good standing. Cards may be requested for spouses and qualified dependents (children with a driver’s license up to age 21). The bail bond card can be posted in lieu of your driver’s license in the state of Illinois for a minor traffic violation.

Purchase Your Bailbond Card Today!

Documents

December 2013 Cooperator