June Cooperator 2014

Vol. 88 No. 6 Countryside, IL 60525 www.cookcfb.org June 2014

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 MonthWhich staff member received the

honorary Chapter FFA degree? 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 by the 21st with the answer for a chance to enter a drawing for a $25.00 gas card.

May’s winner is Cynthia Young.

Last Month’s Question: What are male chickens called?

Possible Answers: Rooster, Cock or Cockerel

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

& events

2014 Paint the Yard Contest Calling all member and non-member gardeners: Paint your Yard this season and join the contest.

Go to a participating local Cook County Farm Bureau Garden Center/Greenhouse, purchase market flowers, obtain your entry form, enter the

contest and plant your garden. Buy it, plant it, and photograph it…hurry entry forms are due by June 16th 2014. Take a before and after

photograph of the yard or container garden and email the photo by July 21st to [email protected]. Win the popular vote or the judges’ choice and be awarded a gift certificate (on us!) to your Garden Center:

3 - 1st Prizes $300.00 eachPopular Vote, Judge’s choice Yard & Container Garden

3 - 2nd Prizes$200.00 eachPopular Vote, Judge’s choice Yard & Container Garden

It’s as easy as that. Go to www.cookcfb.org/buy-local for entry form, participating Garden Centers and complete contest details or call 708-354-3276 and ask for Debbie.

Earlier this year, the US Environmental Protection Agency and US Army Corps of Engineers announced that they were issuing a joint proposed rule to clarify the Clean Water Act (CWA). However, the proposed rule goes beyond clarifying the CWA and drastically expands the jurisdiction of the USEPA and the Army Corps. Under the proposed rule, the USEPA and the Army Corps would have authority over:• Seasonal and rain-dependent

streams• Adjacent streams and

wetlands that feed into those streams

• Isolated wetlands or other waters that have a “significant nexus” to the traditional navigable waters.

The proposed rule will make it more difficult to farm or change a farming business to remain competitive and profitable. Farm Bureau members and leadership are fully engaged in activities to eliminate or reduce

the impact of the proposed rule on farmers. Activities include filing comments, requesting an extension of the federal comment period, and reaching out to the Illinois Congressional delegation to educate them on the issue and to request that they join in the push to have the USEPA and the Army Corps withdraw the rule. It is vital for agriculture that the proposed rule does not become final or, if that is not possible, substantially changed. For more information on making comments on this rule, please contact Cook CFB at 708-394-3276 or email [email protected].

Proposed “Waters of the US” Rule of Concern to Farmers

2014 Bookmark Contest Winners

Nina from Hoffman Estates, 1st Place Winner

Thank you to everyone who submitted entries! We had so many entries and we had a hard time making a decision. The lucky winner of the contest was Nina from Hoffman Estates. She will be awarded a $25 Amazon gift card. There were 3 runner-up

winners as well and they will be awarded a $15 Amazon gift card. In no particular order, the runner-ups were: Albert from Hoffman Estates, Lindsey from La Grange, and Gabrela from Westchester. Congratulations to all of our winners!

Lindsey from La Grange, Runner-Up

Albert from Hoffman Estates, Runner-up

Gabrela from Westchester, Runner-up

Beekeeper Marge inspects the hives in the Lyman Woods bee yard.

SAI-2 – Educating the Next Generation: Food, Fuel & Fiber in the Classroom

July 8-11, 2014

Bee “Apiary” Visit ~ Tuesday, June, 10th 1:00 PM-3:00 PM Lyman Woods, Downers Grove Park District Members will tour the Bee Apiary run by Naturalist and Beekeeping Instructor, Marge Trocki. Protective clothing is available for the first 15 who register to attend. Members will meet at Lyman Woods and the tour will begin at 1 PM - weather permitting. To register, call the County Farm Bureau at 708-354-3276 or email [email protected] by June 6th.

Testa Produce Tour ~ Wednesday, June 25th 10 AM Testa, a Fresh Produce Distributor, Chicago IL This family-owned fresh produce distributor has worked with vendors and customers to maintain high quality produce to the consumer for the past 100 years! Tour the “green” facility that distributes to Chicagoland restaurants, schools, hotels, hospitals, sporting venues and more. Members will meet at Testa Produce and the 60-90 Minute tour will begin at 10 Am and will view its “green” roof top. To register, call the County Farm Bureau at 708-354-3276 or email [email protected] by June 20th. Tour is limited to 25.

Cook County Farm Bureau® Commodities & Marketing Team sponsored event.

6438 Joliet Rd Countryside, IL 60525 708.354.3276 www.cookcfb.org/Events-Calendar

C o

Agricultural Tours for Members Seeing Agriculture in Action

On multiple days the Testa Turbine generates enough energy to power the

entire building.

Co-Operator June 2014 2 Cook County Farm Bureau

Use of Gestation and Farrowing Crates in the United States

A gestation crate or sow stall is a metal enclosure used to house a pregnant hog, first appeared in the United States in the fall of 1970. Early examples of gestation crates included a tether. However, even earlier examples date back to the 1800’s when hogs were housed in wooden stalls much like horses in traditional horse barns. Farrowing crates are traditionally used to house lactating sows thus protecting piglets from being crushed by a sow when she lays down possibly on them. Additionally, the crates are designed to provide a cooler area for the hog and a warmer area for the piglets as well as to keep the piglets dry and reduce the spread of diseases. Gestation crates are used while the hog is pregnant to protect her and animals near her from aggressive behaviors.

Modern variations on gestation and farrowing crates include the turn-around pen in which hogs share a “turn around” space or a compartment-style pen in which hogs have a wider space at one end of the pen. Additionally, group housing in which several animals are housed together is another alternative to individual pens. According to the US Department of Agriculture in the early 2000s, over ninety percent of sows gave birth in gestation crates. However, due largely to public outcry, the use of gestation crates was banned in Europe beginning in 2003 and completely phased out as of January 1, 2013. Public outcry has also caused some US food retailers to rethink the use of gestation crates. In addition, Florida, Arizona, Oregon, Colorado, and California

have banned the use of gestation crates. Additionally, several food retailers have announced that they will require the farmers they purchase from to raise hogs “gestation crate free”. According to Purdue University, research has found that both gestation crates as well as group housing have positive and negative effects on animal well-being. According to the “National Hog Farmer” both studies and anecdotal reports suggest that there is little clear advantage or disadvantage in sow performance when comparing group housing and individual stalls. The consideration of how to house an animal is a determination to be made by individual farmers after considering their farm, their animals, and who they are selling their animals to.

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 132180 Periodical 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 Mark Yunker Ruth Zeldenrust

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

Affiliated CompaniesJeff Orman ...................................... Insurance Agency Manager, South Holland Victoria Nygren ............................... Insurance Agency Manager, Chicago NorthMarc Rogala ......................................Insurance Agency Manager, Chicago SouthJack Smith .................................Insurance Agency Manager, Chicago NorthwestJoe Youngman ...........................Insurance Agency Manager, Chicago NortheastMike Flynn ........................................... Insurance Agency Manager, CountrysideCary 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.

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Soybean Motor Oil Certified

Farmer Values As a farmer, I value the independence to make decisions, to set my own schedule, the ability to work outdoors, the camaraderie of other farmers, and the joy of working with others on issues that affect my livelihood.

Farmer Board Members responded when asked the Question “What do you value as a Farmer?”Janet McCabe

CCFB Board Member

Staff member Diane Merrion, CCFB’s Ag in the Classroom Coordinator, attended the Chicago High School for Ag Science’s FFA Award Banquet on April 29th primarily to present the recognition of the CCFB Foundation’s Conserv FS FFA Scholarship to Senior Thomas Poole. CHSAS surprised Diane with a very special recognition of her own, by presenting her with an honorary Chapter FFA degree for her efforts to work with the students at CHSAS, creation of the Summer Farm Camp held at the school and the wonderful interaction she provides between CHSAS, Ag in the Classroom and Cook County Farm Bureau. What a wonderful tribute to Diane who works so hard on partnering to communicate the message of farm, food, agriculture, and it’s relevance throughout Cook County!Big Time Congratulations, Diane!

Be sure to check out a great blog post by Illinois Farm Families about the work that Diane does. Visit http://www.watchusgrow.org/illinois-farm-families-blog/ (Post is from May 15th)

CongratulationsDiane Merrion

Motor oil made with a high oleic soybean oil base just took the next step toward commercialization. The oil, tested on more than 1 million miles in 100 Las Vegas taxicabs, received certification from the American Petroleum Institute (API). Biosynthetic Technologies of California created the motor

oil containing 35 percent of a synthetic ester, called an estolide, made from high oleic soybean oil. API certification verifies the motor oil formulated with the biosynthetic ester passed rigorous standards required for motor oil use. The national soy checkoff funded a project with Biosynthetic Technologies to achieve API certification. The

product could appear in stores within the next two years. Motor oils made with the new, high oleic soybean-based estolide do not thin out at high temperatures and provide superior engine protection. The estolide also does not evaporate at high temperatures. These characteristics offer the potential for longer oil change intervals.

We were pleased to host 20 students from Southside Occupational Academy of Chicago for a special Ag Day program held on May 13th at Volkening Heritage Farm in Schaumburg, IL. Ms. Cherise Lilly, Horticulture instructor, welcomed the chance for her students to visit a local farm to learn more about agriculture. Students rotated through four learning stations including the farm house kitchen (where a pretzel-making demonstration was the highlight), a blacksmith station, the barn to see dairy cows and horses and the chicken coop where eggs were gathered and chickens fed. It was a long drive from Chicago, but worth the trip to experience agriculture firsthand on an 1880’s historic farm.


Farm Bureau is in the “People” business. We have people that choose to join the Organization as members. We have people that volunteer to lend their skills, enthusiasm, talents and strengths to further the goals of the Farm Bureau. We have people that work for our Affiliated Companies that help provide services and protection to our member people. We have people that work as Staff serving all these other people! We have People that spend large chunks of their free time serving as part of the Leadership Team for the Farm Bureau. Farm Bureau People meet…FB People interact…FB People connect…FB People relate. As Manager, I am very fortunate to work with so many of these good People. It is inevitable and right that a close bond is formed with many of these People… April 23, 2014 was a difficult day…a difficult day for Cook County Farm Bureau People and for me personally. Two long time board leaders and volunteers of Cook County Farm Bureau, Harold Stuenkel and Don Zeldenrust passed away on April 23, moving from the restraints of our earthly boundaries to the great Farm in the sky. They

will never have to worry about the weather, plowing straight rows, crop prices and pests, and commodity markets again. For the 15+ years that I have worked at Cook County Farm Bureau, these two gentlemen influenced me greatly, providing guidance, wisdom and counsel. They had a tremendous impact on the Cook County Farm Bureau organization…strong-willed individuals that wanted the best from agriculture and from Farm Bureau! I believe that Organizations, especially non-for profits like Cook County Farm Bureau, are living, breathing organisms and derive their personalities from the personalities of their leaders. We are bits and pieces of the people that bring the organization to life and make it real. The Cook County Farm Bureau bears many positive traits and attributes from these two long time leaders… From Harry’s 28 years on the Board (3 as President)… He brought honesty, determination, thought provoking questions, a steady calm, and a quiet, caring farm focus with the Organization… From Don’s 37 years on the Board…He brought a tough but likable people-oriented focus, great farm humor in all things, institutional memories (and stories) with attention to the roots of farming… Each of these men

identified in the role as Farmer “traditionalists” enjoying the relationships derived from working collectively with other agriculturists for the common good of farming. They weren’t big on “evolving” technology and change occurring in the world, yet saw wisdom in trying new ways and new approaches as a Farm Bureau. Perhaps the finest gift that they gave to me was their Trust. This is something that I will always hold dear in my heart. What finer and more impactful gift can a board member provide to an employee than Trust? This

is a gift I will never take for granted. And so, it is with a heavy heart that we say farewell to these fine leaders and great FB People. However, Harry and Don’s legacies live on, not only within their dear family members, but within their Cook County Farm Bureau organization as well. Their influence, gifts, guidance and personalities provided

during their tenure will live on. We never say thank you to volunteers enough (and regret follows) so in case Harry and Don finally have time to read the Cooperator and this column now, let me say thank you…Your organization is so much the better because of your years of involvement and the personalities you loaned Cook County Farm Bureau!

Downwindby Bob Rohrer, Manager

Organizational Personality

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

AUTO I HOME I LIFEBUSINESS I RETIREMENT

Mary Jane AlaghebandEvanston

(847) 733-7952

Matt BroomRolling Meadows

(847) 963-8876

Russ DelangeRolling Meadows

(847) 991-3129

Sarkis HartounRolling Meadows

(847) 963-8835

Tim HrankaRolling Meadows

(847) 963-1540

Larry JachecRolling Meadows

(847) 934-5112

George LundinRolling Meadows

(847) 934-6800

Robb MadejRolling Meadows

(847) 963-8817

Ray MassieRolling Meadows

(847) 991-0765

Tom JeanRolling Meadows

(847) 963-8907

Nader MikhaeilRolling Meadows

(847) 963-8874

Keith BanksPark Ridge

(847) 696-9484

Barbara BatorRolling Meadows

(847) 963-8823

Matt PowellRolling Meadows

(847) 934-5117

Fred ResnerRolling Meadows

(847) 991-2815

Paul ChoiWheeling

(847) 419-1281

Kurt MassPark Ridge

(847) 696-9484

Gregory StickelsRolling Meadows

(847) 963-8872

Brad OlsonWheeling

(847) 419-1281

Akin OsisanyaEvanston

(847) 733-7952

0314-542HO

Tom GraceffaRolling Meadows

(847) 963-8851

Sean LeeRolling Meadows

(847) 963-8821

Mike SalernoWheeling

(847) 419-1281

Leo RizoEvanston

(847) 733-7952

Robert SitkiewiczPark Ridge

(847) 696-9484

Jeff SteinNorthbrook

(847) 498-1205

Yanni ZavakosWheeling

(847) 419-1281

Jerry ToigoEvanston

(847) 733-7952

Magdalena StovallPark Ridge

(847) 696-9484

Joe YoungmanAgency Manager

(847) 963-8840

Harry and Don admiring a giant pumpkin

A friendly reminder…The Cook County Farm Bureau office

will be

CLOSED on Friday, July 4th,

in honor of Independence Day.

Happy 4th of July to all of our members!


History of Food

Strawberry Goodness Strawberries, famous for their characteristic aroma, bright color, juicy texture, and sweetness were first bred in Brittany, France in the early 1750s. Common uses of strawberries include preserves, juices, pies, ice cream, milkshakes, and chocolates. Even strawberry aroma has been added to air fresheners, cleaning products, and perfumes.

Strawberry-Lemon Cake(recipe from myrecipes.com)

Ingredients2 cups of f lour1½ cups of sugar½ teaspoon salt3 large eggs¾ cup whole milk½ cup vegetable oil¼ cup butter, melted and cooled1 tablespoon grated lemon rind1 tablespoon fresh lemon juiceStrawberry-lemon filling

1½ cups whipping cream6 tablespoons sugar

Preparation Line a lightly greased 15x10-inch jellyroll pan with lightly-greased parchment paper. Combine the flour and the next three ingredients in a large bowl. Whisk together eggs and the next five ingredients in a medium bowl until blended; whisk in dry ingredients until just blended. Pour batter in prepared pan. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes or

until wood pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool cake in pan on wire rack for 10 minutes. Invert cake onto the wire rack, and remove the parchment paper; let cool completely. Transfer cake onto a large cutting board. Cut the cake into half to make two squares. Place one cake layer on a serving plate; spread top with half of the strawberry-lemon filling. Top with the remaining cake layer. Spread the remaining filling over the top. Beat whipping cream and sugar at high speed with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form; spoon into a one-gallon, zip-top plastic freezer bag, press whipped cream into one corner of the bag, removing the excess air, and snip a ¼-inch hold in the corner of the bag. Pipe the whipped cream vertically onto the cake sides.

Ask a “Bee Guy or Gal”...Member, Joe, from Justice, IL submitted the following bee/honey question that he wanted answered:

Question: What does it feel like to be a male Honeybee?

Answer: Having never been a male bee, I can only imagine what it feels like to be a male (drone) bee. If I were a drone, I would think life would be pretty good. After emerging from a drone cell as an adult, with a little help from the workers (workers don’t assist other workers when they emerge from their cells), you pretty much have all the freedom and luxury you could think of. Your sisters are constantly providing food for you. You are not expected to do any work around the house. You come and go as you please. You get to hang out with your friends all day long looking for queens to mate with.... Which, if you are “lucky”, it is the last thing you will do.....literally. Drones die after mating with a queen. If you don’t find a queen, you just f ly to the nearest hive you can find. Any hive will let you in. This is all great......until the fall. Then the workers decide they have had enough of you and literally drag you out of the hive and toss you on the ground. Try as you might to get back in, you are no longer welcome. Drones are a drain on winter honey stores and they are all disposed of by the workers. Well......it was a great summer if you are a drone.

Answer provided by an instructor/local honey producer at the Cook-DuPage Beekeepers Association. Visit localfarmproducts.org to find a local honey producer near you!

Members of all ages gathered on a Saturday morning in April to participate in Farming on Your Balcony/Make an Herb Planter workshop held at the Cook County Farm Bureau. Nancy Pollard, Horticulture Educator with the U of I Extension and Dan Biernacki, owner of Ted’s Greenhouse and Board member, led the workshop focusing on raising vegetables and patio container gardening in any size space! Participants, like Greg and Tracy Adams (above) assembled a beautiful herb planter to take home. This workshop continues to be a popular one for members.

Farmland, a documentary following the lives of six young farmers premiered in Chicago in May. Farmland, directed by award-winning

director, James Moll, steps inside the world of farming and ranching for a glimpse into the lives of six young

farmers and ranchers who have taken responsibility for their farms. Moll traveled across the country meeting young farmers and ranchers to learn more about the challenges and promises of growing and raising food. Following the premiere, movie watchers participated in a panel discussion then had the opportunity to meet farmers from Illinois.

Attendees had an opportunity to speak with farmers at the Farmland Documentary Premiere.

Master Gardener Resource Center is here to help! Master gardeners are housed in the Farm Bureau office for regular business hours to answer questions from members and the general public related to gardening and horticulture. Office hours are Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. This service is expected to continue through November 15.

The master gardeners are accessible by contacting the Cook County Farm Bureau at (708)354-3276 or by email at [email protected]. Master Gardeners are also available to speak with in person at the Cook County Farm Bureau suite located at 6438 Joliet Rd. in Countryside. General topic areas that

can be addressed include soil test recommendations, plant disease issues and treatments, horticulture related questions, pest identification and treatment, and more. Commercial related questions will be forwarded to the University of Illinois Extension Professional Staff.

Willene Buffet, Cook County U of I Extension Director, helped lead the Celebration of the 100 year Anniversary of the Smith-Level act which created the Cooperative Extension service in our Country. A gathering of Extension partners, supporters and friends gathered at the Chicago Cultural Center on May 14th for a celebration and recognition of the occasion. CCFB Manager, Bob Rohrer, represented the organization and read the Resolution passed by the CCFB Board of Directors.

Congratulations on 100 years and we look forward to partnering for the next 100 years!

Willene Buffet

University of Illinois Extension Celebrates 100 year Anniversary


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

Matteson708-679-1870

ElliotDay

Matteson708-679-1870

BobDeenikLansing

708-474-5600

WillWilliamsOak Forest

708-560-7777

PatHickeyWorth

708-361-4081

MikeMcKennyOak Forest

708-560-7777

GaryMolenhouse

Manhattan815-478-0190

KirkNickersonSouth Holland

708-331-3323

TedParks

Oak Forest708-560-7777

JimParthemore

Orland Park708-226-1896

TimPerchinski

Steger708-754-7300

BobSmith

Homewood708-798-4844

Mike Cerf


Paul TurayMokena

708-478-0423

JoshVan Namen

Worth708-361-3925

Tim Van Zuidam

Lansing708-474-0006

John VanGennep

Mokena708-478-5500

Jim Verduin

South Holland708-596-0008

0514-512HO

KristynMcCormick


JackieVanderlaan


The new issue of Illinois Farm Bureau Partners magazine is in the mail. We encourage you to take a look at the magazine and to check out the articles on Page 12 “Links to the Old World” where Chicago-area sausage makers showcase old techniques and recipes, Page 14 “A North Shore Getaway” and Page 18 “Fame Time with Farmers” where Chicago moms get a close-up look at how their food grows”.

Be sure to keep an eye out for your copy!

Achieving Financial Security

When it comes to finances, comfortable, well-off and secure aren’t created equal, according to the latest COUNTRY Financial Security Index. Fifty-nine percent of Americans said they aren’t sure or don’t believe it’s possible to achieve financial security with a middle-class income. Just 3 percent of Americans consider themselves wealthy. This group is, however, more likely to say a lower income is all that’s necessary to be comfortable, financially well-off and financially secure. The survey also found that as incomes rise, so do Americans’ view of how much you need to be “well-off.” All income groups said $50,000 to $100,000 is enough for an individual to live comfortably. However, the more they make, the more likely Americans are to say a higher income is necessary to be financially “well-off.”

Thanks to Don Wessels and Maywood Park Race Track for hosting a ‘behind the scenes’ tour for Cook County Farm Bureau members in April.

Thanks to Historic Wagner Farm for co-hosting Gardening Workshop event with over a dozen teachers. Everyone walked away with many new garden ideas to use in their K-8th grade classrooms.

Winning recipe contributor, Evelyn Zoeteman of South Holland, accepts a $50 gift certificate to Smits Farms from Bob Rohrer, CCFB Manager (left) with Carl Smits (right), owner of Smits Farms. Congratulations, Evelyn!

The 2014 Cookfresh® Recipe Collection is Here!

The Commodities/Marketing Team’s 2014 Cookfresh Recipe Collection is now available! This year’s recipes focus on proudly cooking with the freshest ingredients grown locally. The recipes chosen were submitted by Cook

County Farm Bureau members. To receive a free copy, email [email protected], or phone 708.354.3276 for your copy. To download a copy online, go to:www.cookcfb.org/buy-local/recipe-collection


AITC

Agricultural Literacy& Public Relations

School’s out for summer

Ag Lit Bit By Diane Merrion

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

Most students in Illinois are now partaking in the annual celebration known as summer break. Our sympathy to those schools still plodding along to make up for all the snow days. I recall how excited a snow day seemed in January, but how dreadful it is to make them up come June. It’s hard to believe another school year has passed as it seems like last week that it was September. Summer isn’t what it used to be when I went to school. We basically turned off our brains (or so we thought) and did nothing. What I mean by nothing is we created our own agendas and created our own learning, even though we didn’t know it was learning. We planted gardens (horticulture), harvested gardens (culinary arts), caught butterflies and bugs(entomology), made dirt pies (soil science), had lemonade stands (entrepreneurship), walked our dogs (animal science), fixed our own broken bike chains (mechanics), went running when the mosquito trucks sprayed at night (opposite of environmental sciences), used aluminum foil to enhance our tans (natural resources) and read great books under trees or on vacation (literacy). I could go on, but you get the idea. We didn’t have many classes to go to in order to boost our education. We learned by trial and error and created our own learning labs. Illinois and Cook County are full of learning opportunities this

summer. I would encourage you to check out the IL DNR website (http://www.dnr.illinois), the Illinois Ag Fun website (http://www.agfun.com), Historic Wagner Farm (http://www.glenviewparks.org/facilities-parks/wagner-farm/), Volkening Heritage Farm (http://www.parkfun.com/spring-valley/heritage-farm) and, of course, the Cook County Farm Bureau (www.cookcfb.org) to name just a few ideas. We are excited to offer our Passport to the Farm Camp, along with extensive teacher professional development programs. We will also be at many libraries (see listings) sharing our agriculture programming with the youth of Cook County. There’s no reason to be bored this summer with all our area has to offer. Whether you learn on your own, or seek a more formal classroom setting, keep learning all summer. Before you know it, the lawn mowers will be stored away and the snow shovels will be back in use.

NOTE: We want to acknowledge the passing of our dear friend and ag literacy advocate, Harry Stuenkel. Harry served on the Ag Literacy committee for many years and was always supportive of all educational programming at the farm bureau. We will sorely miss his presence on our committee and at our events. He is remembered fondly by all Ag Literacy committee members and volunteers.

Career Corner Amanda Sumerix is one of our Young

Leaders and she is excited to share her career information with us this month.

Job Title: Junior Account Executive at Gibbs & Soell, Inc.

Tell us about your degree and career choice. I attended Michigan State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies Agriscience, with concentrations in Communication and Agriculture Education (but I usually just call it Agriculture Communication). I selected this major because I wanted to be involved with agriculture in some way. After 4 years of being involved in FFA at the local, regional and state level, I decided teaching probably wasn’t for me (I didn’t have quite enough patience). Meanwhile, I discovered that I was really good at writing and enjoyed all aspects of communication (journalism, broadcasting, graphic design, photo editing, web-design, etc.). It was then that I decided that I wanted to combine agriculture and communications. I began looking at Michigan State University because of its well-known ties to agriculture and discovered they offered a program that was specifically what I was looking for.

How did you get your position and what is a typical day like in your job? Throughout college I held multiple internships within various aspects of agriculture. One of these internships

was at a comprehensive communications firm in Minneapolis, MN. I enjoyed that internship the most because I got to work on all aspects of communication and my days were rarely monotonous. But the best part was that I had agriculture companies as clients. When it came time to start looking for a full time job after graduation, I began looking for opportunities within other firms that had agriculture companies as clients. A friend of mine, who was also in the same major, had heard about a Public Relations firm in Chicago that came highly recommended from a former employee. I definitely heard about this job by word of mouth! The best part about my job is that I do not have a typical day! One day I could be researching hot topics in agriculture to help write a news release and the next day I could be drafting emails promoting a specific agriculture product and distributing them to thousands of my client›s customers. I have helped design websites, make postcards advertising a specific event, created brochures that highlight product benefits and warnings that accompany an agriculture chemical, among many other things.

Do you have a background in agriculture? I grew up on a farm in northern Michigan that was mainly a hobby farm. Throughout the years, it has grown into Michigan’s largest Dark Red Kidney Bean Seed producer and a large supplier of low potassium hay to dairy farms in the Midwest. I was

heavily involved in 4-H and FFA as kid.

Who do you interact with in your position? Because Gibbs & Soell is a PR firm, I work mostly with media sources (newspapers and radio). A PR firm differs from an advertising agency in that we don’t design advertisements and rarely work with any TV media. Any advertisements that we do work on, are either tag-teamed with the client’s advertising agency or very low budget (using a real photo vs. a photo that has been photo-shopped). I also get to work on some local marketing tactics. I enjoy this part because I get a chance to talk with sales representatives in the field and work with them to develop promotional materials that are specific to their region vs. a nationwide piece.

What advice would you give someone about your career? I would definitely suggest experiencing an internship at a communications firm. A communications firm operates a lot different than a company who has someone working on communications internally because instead of reporting to your own company, you would report to a client. Plus internships are great ways to gain experience and companies are always looking for experience. If nothing else, internships offer you a chance to see if you will like this type of job in the future. It has no long-term commitments and if you end up realizing that this is not something that you want to do for the rest of your life, you can change it.

More than 500 FFA members, County Farm Bureau Managers, and FFA advisors from 83 Illinois counties attended the 2014 Illinois Farm Bureau® & Affiliates Youth Conference, April 7-8 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Springfield.

“Planting Your Potential”, the theme of this year’s conference, offered FFA members in their junior year of high school, a unique opportunity for career and personal development. Attendees got the opportunity to visit with representatives about scholarships, internships, leadership programs and career opportunities from community colleges, universities, agriculture commodity groups, and the Illinois Farm Bureau. The annual two-day conference is sponsored by Illinois Farm Bureau and its affiliated companies, which include GROWMARK, COUNTRY Financial, Prairie Farms and the IAA Credit Union.

We may be visiting YOUR library this

summer! The farm bureau will host many one hour programs at Cook County libraries. Themes vary from horses, to cows, to pizza. Call the library for more details.

Hope to see you there!

June 25 2-3:00 Lemont Library

June 26 11-12:00 Prairie Trails

(Burbank) Library

June 26 3:30-4:30 Chicago Ridge Library

July 15 11-12:00 Stickney Library

July 16 11-12:00 Palatine Library

July 18 11-12:00 Lemont Library

July 29 11-12:00 Palatine Library-

Rand Road Branch

July 29 1:30-2:30 Palatine Library -

Hoffman Estates Branch

July 31 11-12:00 Green Hills Library

New Faces in Ag LiteracyAg in the Classroom Assistant

Join us in welcoming Jill Drover to the Ag Literacy team. Jill will serve as an Ag Assistant where she will help coordinate the programming efforts in agricultural educational. Jill comes to us after working for over 15 years in the middle school area of food services where she helped make the farm to table connection with her

students and teachers. She has a strong enthusiasm for farm bureau and all that it can bring to teachers and students throughout Cook County.

Welcome to Kendall Herren - Summer Intern I am absolutely elated to be working as the Ag in the Classroom intern with the Cook County Farm Bureau this summer. As a student at the University of Illinois pursuing a degree in agricultural communications, I am fired-up about passing my enthusiasm for agriculture on to others!My childhood home was tucked back a long, tree-lined

driveway and surrounded by acres of corn during the growing season. I attended a small, rural school in Somonauk, Illinois, and was an eleven year member of the Kendall County 4-H program. My background gave me an appreciation for agriculture and inspired me to learn more about an area that is vital to human survival. I look forward to a summer working with others focusing on the diverse topic of agriculture.

Pictured (left to right) are: Shannah Marshall, Chicago Ag Science FFA; Sam Detwiler, President, Illinois Association FFA; Jeanette Akuamoah, Chicago Ag Science FFA. Also attending was Xavier Morgan(not pictured) from Chicago Ag Science, Section 8 FFA President.


Ag in Baseball 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 20th of each 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

Baseball Bases Bat Corn Cotton Cowhide Field Glove Grass

B E T A D F D G N T E Y B M F

I A D S I M P O D S O T W J F

O G S I B X M D Z P H R G Q R

B Y V E H B I T G P B L W G U

C O R N B W F O B R O A L U T

B M J K T A O H Z V A G T N Q

T J E L T H L C E N U S Z I V

L T O S L W E L I J V D S F X

I O I H O M E P L A T E E O Y

W I B M O H S T U N A E P R X

S P I T H S P C O T T O N M L

E G D E O E O Q W X Z X P S J

Y F G H N V K F F F Q T B H G

C V C N S E X W Q P E Z A V K

A A A J J P C Z J L C H S N X

N N C O E V Y N D N G O E J Z

T R C T J H D E U I H W S I E

X A G L H O Q N P F A O Y O Z

P H C P J O W A H O C A K B E

D L E I F C P M V P B P Q I R

Home Plate Hot Dog Mitt Nachos Peanuts Pennant Turf Uniforms Wool

Last month’s winner of four movie tickets was :

Lisa Sullivan

Could you be next?!

Baseball

Most people would never connect agriculture with one of America’s favorite pastimes! Study the connections below and you’ll find that

there is NO WAY baseball could exist without agriculture!

The ancient Romans played a game similar to the game we know as baseball with balls made from strips of animal hide wrapped around reeds or wild grasses. The first official baseball uni-form, adopted in 1849 by the

Knickerbocker Base Ball Club of New York City, was a simple outfit consisting of a white flannel shirt, blue wool pants and a straw hat. Later hats were made of merino wool or wool flannel.

In 1903, Spalding introduced the “Philadelphia Style” cap, which featured an innovative first: the stitched visor. The subtle addition resulted in a longer-lasting cap that better retained its shape. By the end of the decade, nearly every baseball cap featured the stitched bill.

Early baseball shoes were made from cotton canvas. Later, shoes were made from calfskin for its greater durability. Some of the early shoes were actually made from kangaroo leather.

*Information provided by Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom and Minnesota Ag in the Classroom.

Baseball Uniforms: Cotton-based; cotton is produced in the southern United States and other parts of the world. Cotton is natural fiber that keeps you cool in the summer. Texas is the leading cotton-producing state. Glove or Mitt: The best are made from natural cowhide; glove softening oils come from ani-mals, fish or plants (mostly soybeans). One cow can provide 12 fielding gloves. Baseball: An official baseball has a core (middle) made from four long strands of high quality wool - 150 yards total! The core is sur-rounded by rubber or cork (cork oak tree from Spain and Portugal) and covered with two pieces of horse or cowhide. It is stitched with exactly 216 stitches. Lower quality baseballs have a core made of cotton yarn. One cow can provide 144 baseballs! Chalk for lines: Mined limestone: possibly corn starch as a binder. Lime is also used for sanitation purposes on the floors of Grade A dairy barns and to lower the pH level in agri-cultural fields. Pennants: Cotton-based.

Baseball Bat: Today’s official bat is a smooth round stick made of one piece of solid wood. Traditionally, wood came from the northern ash tree but today some players prefer maple wood. Hot Dogs: Made from pork and beef in a wheat bun. The ketchup you love starts as a tomato! Nachos: Made up of corn flour with cheese from dairy cows. Peanuts: Grown by peanut farmers in the south-ern states. Soda Pop: Your favorite is sweetened with corn syrup. Turf Grass: Many baseball fields are covered with natural turf grass, which is usually a mixture of perennial rye grass, Kentucky blue grass, fes-cue and other grasses. Printing: Newspapers, tickets, programs, sched-ules: All paper-based and printed using soy ink from soybeans. Home Plate: Made of rubber from tropical rub-ber tree.

Illinois’ top agricultural commodity. For

“Gimme Cracked Corn & I Will Share” Egg-secuted by Kevin O’Malley

In this eggstraordinary adventure, packed with puns and Kevin O’Malley’s trademark humor, a chicken dreams of buried treasure in a distant barn somewhere across the road. When he and his pal fly the coop and set out on a journey to find the golden corn, their quest reminds us that sometimes we need to leave home to find out that things we really treasure are right where we started from.


Nature, farm intertwine Our son’s alarm clock beeped progressively faster and louder before he silenced it on a Saturday morning. I figured the wake-up call must have been an accident. It was the 6 a.m. hour on a day when he could sleep longer. And most notably, he never even sets the alarm on school days. He trotted from his room, rubbed his eyes and said with exuberance, “We’re going mushroom hunting!” Yes, buddy. Right after lunch.My kids love to hike through the woods at the farm. The adventure lures them in like boot-sucking mud at the creek edge (which inevitably happens to at least one rubber boot). They find a favorite walking stick and exclaim lots of, “Look, Mom!” as they observe interesting tree growth, forest plants and wildlife tracks. The creek water tempts them, as do the creek banks for climbing. Happy children bring indescribable delight. And that happiness becomes particularly special when mom, dad and kids find joy in the same experiences. In our household, much of our loved hobbies convene outdoors. All of my life, nature and the farm have been closely intertwined. The systems co-exist and impact our business and our lifestyle. As a result, farmers share degrees of a conservation mindset, too. In fact, I’m a little taken back when I read blog posts that express surprise when someone learns first-hand that farmers care about the environment. Who tells them otherwise? We love the land as much as the act of farming itself.We teach our children to appreciate and understand all parts of the land, including the areas that do not grow crops. During our timber tour

that Saturday, our 8-year-old daughter helped identify seven different woodland flowers with her kid-friendly field guide. Throughout the summer, she carries a similar one for prairie plants native to our area. The book’s curled edges prove its years of use. She picks flowers. I take photos of the experiences, including a snapshot that became our son’s 6-year photograph. He posed near a favorite tree in the woods. That happens to be where his dad harvested his first deer by bow-and-arrow. Interestingly, morel mushrooms were supposed to be the focus that warm, spring afternoon. Rather, the kids just wanted woodland adventure. As far as mushrooms, an “I Spy” book best describes that experience. The adults find the mushrooms and announce their general location. Then, the kids seek without disappointment and boredom. We did not find mushrooms that day, but the trip still proved worthy of the alarm clock.--Side note: The kid-friendly field guide I mentioned is part of the Rachel Raccoon & Sammy Skunk series by Jannifer Powelson of Princeton, Ill. My kids have used her plant-based storybooks as field guides on countless occasions. They include both photographs and illustrations of plants you can find in Illinois’ rural ditches, farm timbers, state conservation areas and some city parks. My daughter even used her book knowledge to identify prairie plants around a putt-putt course in the Chicago suburbs.

About the Author: Joanie Stiers, a wife and mother of two, farms with her husband, brother and parents on a multi-generational grain farm in West-Central Illinois.

Job changes – whether by choice or downsizing – add stress

to everyone’s life. Altered family income, and especially lack of income, can throw current and future financial plans into turmoil. Despite the strain job changes cause, you can maintain control of your family’s financial security. If you contributed money to your employer’s 401(k) plan, consider rolling your hard-earned savings into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). Avoid closing your 401(k) and taking the cash unless you absolutely need the money. In most cases, you’ll pay income tax on the distributions as well as a 10 percent early withdrawal penalty if you haven’t reached the age of 59 ½ . Most importantly, you’ll prematurely drain your retirement savings. If you directly transfer 401(k) funds into an IRA, you’ll pay no early withdrawal penalties. You won’t pay federal income tax until you withdraw the money during retirement. Other advantages to directly transferring your 401(k) funds into an IRA include:• Maintaining control of your investment choices.

• Combining all your IRAs into one account. • Making Traditional IRA contributions to the

account in future years. If you leave your 401(k) money with a former employer, you will not be able to make additional contributions.

Once you’ve decided to directly transfer your 401(k) funds into an IRA, you can choose from a variety of investment options. COUNTRY Trust Bank offers investment accounts managed by a team of professionals to help simplify investment decisions and achieve financial security no matter where you’re starting from. A COUNTRY Financial representative can help you make informed decisions about IRA rollover options and create a tangible plan to fulfill your desire to build for the future. ______________________________________Investment management, retirement, trust and planning services provided by COUNTRY Trust Bank®, 1705 N Towanda Ave, PO Box 2020 Bloomington, IL 61702-2020 tel (800) 422-8261 Not FDIC Insured * No Bank Guarantee * May Lose Value Registered Broker/Dealer offering securities products and services: COUNTRY® Capital Management Company, 1705 N Towanda Ave, PO Box 2222 Bloomington, IL 61702-2222 tel (866) 551-0060Member FINRA and SIPC

“From the Country”Control Your Financial FutureDuring and After Job ChangesMarc Rogala

Country Agency Manager

Chicago South

Your Chicago South Agency55 W Monroe I Suite 3150 I Chicago, IL 60603 I 312-368-1008

AUTO I HOME I COMMERCIAL I LIFE I HEALTH I DISABILITY INCOMEUNIVERSAL LIFE I COMPLETE INSURANCE SERVICE

Mark RogalaAgency Manager773-284-90006239 S Archer

Chicago, IL 60638

Issa Elsousou773-284-90006239 S Archer

Chicago, IL 60638

Debbie Brooks773-487-0918

10414 S Western AveChicago, IL 60643

Robert Sweiss773-498-73396415 W 63rd St

Chicago, IL 60638

Theo Leonard773-239-7800


Gwen Shaw773-487-0918738 E 87th St

Chicago, IL 60619

Silver Castillo773-284-90006239 S Archer

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Jose Martinez773-284-90006239 S Archer

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Leo Maldonado773-254-5810

3458 S Halsted StChicago, IL 60608

Martha Dominguez773-254-5810


Kirk Gregory773-239-7800


Terrence Hicks773-363-6416

5309 S Hyde Park BlvdChicago, IL 60615

David DeSantiago773-254-5810


David Jara773-284-90006239 S Archer

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Shirley Griffin773-363-6416


William Gunter773-363-6416


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Mike Sheahan773-284-90006239 S Archer

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James Williams773-239-7800


Ciria Serrano773-284-90006239 S Archer

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Alonzo Nevarez773-254-5810

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PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE

Manifolds, Manolos, and Manure In 2011, Rahm Emanuel joined the ranks of 53 men and 1 woman before him after being elected the 55th mayor of Chicago.

Despite five challengers, Emanuel received 55 percent of the vote, well exceeding the 50 percent margin needed to avoid a runoff. Emanuel was followed by Gery Chico with 25 percent of the vote, former City Clerk and Illinois Senator Miguel del Valle, former US Senator Carol Moseley Braun, and two lesser known candidates. After 357 informal meet-and-greets with voters of which 229 were at schools, grocery stores, and churches and 110 at subway stations; and a portentous ceremony at Pritzker Pavilion, Emanuel assumed control of the third most

populous city in the nation. In the past three years, Emanuel has had to tackle numerous obstacles including a teachers’ strike, school closures, and the replacement of his schools chief. Emanuel has two massive liabilities now standing between him and a second tenure at the helm of Chicago. Those liabilities include a $600 million pension payment for police and fire pensions and simply the cost of running the City, including funding for schools, pothole repairs, palm greasing, and garbage pick-up among others. Emanuel is quietly pushing legislation through Springfield to reform pensions and to enable the City Council to raise property taxes to pay for those “reforms”. According to recent polls, Emanuel long considered an anti-union, pro-charter school, pro-privatization, and pro-wealth mayor is at risk to lose his run for mayor next year. The very same

polls show Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle with an eight point lead over Emanuel. Critics argue that there is a twenty-eight point undecided contingency to sway and quite frankly Emanuel has the campaign war chest to sway those votes. Preckwinkle claims that she’s only interested in running for reelection to her current post, Cook County President. Some argue that Preckwinkle couldn’t make the quick flip without losing the support of the electoric but Harold Washington did. Preckwinkle has extremely strong ties with the African American community, which is one area that Emanuel’s support is slipping largely to due school closures. Preckwinkle also has a strong relationship with most unions despite having to reduce the County’s workforce to address her own set of budget issues, many of which were created by her predecessor, the infamous Todd Stroger.

Preckwinkle is a former Chicago alderman and sitting Cook County President. The poll mentioned above also shows Preckwinkle with 40 to 28 percent lead with women and 53 percent of respondents indicated that they weren’t happy with the direction the City is headed. A second, lesser threat to Emanuel’s reelection dream is Chicago Alderman Bob Fioretti who has represented the second ward since 2007. However, during the most recent ward remap, he had parts of his ward parceled off into seven other wards- the third, fourth, eleventh, twenty-fifth, twenty-seventh, and forty-second arguably due to his less than friendly relationship with the current Administration. So really, what does Fioretti has to lose? The mayoral race is scheduled for February 24, 2015.

By Bona Heinsohn

Policy Question of the MonthFarm Bureau members are considering a policy on

what topic?

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.

MAY’S WINNER for the Public Policy Question of the Month was Wanda Bruinsma. Congratulations!

May’s question: Name a tentative stop for this year’s Cook County Staff Exchange Program.Possible Answers: A commercial vertical farming operation that distributes locally; a local vegetable distributor that distributes to Chicagoland’s food service entities; a premier Chicagoland dessert and sweets processor; and a specialty meats processor.

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.

Farm Bureau Considers Policy Supportive of Beekeeping in Urban Areas

The Cook County Farm Bureau is frequently contacted by individuals and municipalities interested in beekeeping. Through a partnership with the Cook DuPage Beekeepers Association, Farm Bureau members and interested families have learned the ins and outs of beekeeping through various programs and educational events. Through assistance from Farm Bureau staff, municipalities and interested organizations have developed policy and ordinances supportive of urban beekeeping. Farm Bureau members responding to the 2014 Viewpoint Survey, which was partially funded

through the Illinois Farm Bureau® Advanced Policy Development Grant, support enhancing Farm Bureau’s role with urban beekeeping. To accomplish that goal, Farm Bureau members are considering policy directing the organization to assist municipalities to draft municipal ordinances supportive of raising bees providing that the municipality contacts the Farm Bureau and requests assistance. Members are encouraged to contact Bona Heinsohn at (708) 354-3276 or via email at [email protected] with any questions or comments regarding this policy.

Cook County Staff Exchange Sites and Dates Set

On Wednesday, August 27 and Tuesday, September 16 Cook County Farm Bureau® is hosting a Cook County farm-business/food processor tour for Cook County and State government staff. The program will provide County and State staff with an enhanced understanding of Cook County farms and businesses and how they relate to Cook County and Illinois government. On Wednesday, August 27 the group will depart from the Farm Bureau office at 9:30 am and travel to Farmed Here for a tour, lunch and lunchtime discussion. Farmed Here is a commercial, vertical farming operation located in Bedford Park. The group will return to the Farm Bureau office at 1:00 pm. On Tuesday, September 16 the group will depart from the Cook County Building at 12:30 pm and travel to Testa Produce, a local vegetable distributor and Eataly Chicago, a local foods restaurant both located in Chicago. The group will return to the County Building prior to 5:00 pm.

There are no repeat sites from the 2013 program.

Interested staff members are encouraged to contact Bona Heinsohn via phone at (708) 354-3276 or via email at [email protected].

By January 30, CDL license holders were asked to declare their driving intentions: non-exempt interstate (NI), exempt interstate (EI), Non-exempt intrastate (NA), and exempt intrastate (EA). At the end of the grace period (February 28) drivers who did not declare their driving intentions had their CDLs cancelled.

Also, earlier this year CDL holders who declared NI (non-exempt interstate) were required to obtain a medical card after undergoing a physical exam. To date almost 12,000 (or three percent of Illinois CDL holders) CDLs have been cancelled due to not obtaining a medical card.

To restore a cancelled CDL due to failure to declare medical card status or because his/her medical

card has expired, the following steps need to be taken in order to restore it before the CDL passes its expiration date.

1. Driver gives medical card to SOS who loads the expiration date into the computer.2. Computer pulls the expiration date at the 90 days before cancellation date and sends the driver a reminder that they have 90 days left on their medical card.3. Medical card expires; SOS places the driver on “non-certified” status and notifies the driver.4. If the driver’s medical card remains expired on the thirty-first day, SOS will cancel the CDL and notify the driver.

The CDL remains cancelled until the driver either renews

their medical card or they renew their base license. At the time of renewal, the driver will either have to drop the CDL completely, or provide a new medical card to get the CDL reinstated. If the driver lets their base license expire before they come in and renew it, then all tests will be required to re-establish their CDL.

This summer, over 122,000 CDL holders who have declared the NA or EA status will receive a “K” restriction on their license, which will allow law enforcement, employers, and other States’ driver licensing agencies to be aware of intrastate-only driving intentions. If this is not the driver’s intention then the driver must go into a CDL facility to change their declaration.

Impact of Medical Cards now Apparent


MEMBER RELATIONSCook County Financial

Representatives of the Month

The Financial Representative of the Month program is designed by Country Financial Agency Managers of Cook County to recog-nize 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 man-ager with the Financial Representative of the Month designation.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Katie Smith, Director of Membership, 6438 Joliet Road, Countryside, Il 60525

[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 benefits 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 April 2014. 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.

Christopher Quigley Chicago North Agency, Vicki Nygren, Agency ManagerChristopher Quigley has been named Chicago North Employee Financial Representative of the month for April 2014. His office is located at 1701 W. Belmont Avenue in Chicago, IL. His phone number is (773)248-1741.

Christopher has been a Financial Representative since July 2009.

Kathy Spiewak Chicago Northwest Agency, Jack Smith, Agency ManagerKathy Spiewak has been named Career Financial Representative of the Month for April 2014. 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.

Zachary Youngblood Chicago Northwest Agency, Jack Smith, Agency ManagerZachary Youngblood has been named Employee Financial Representative of the Month for April 2014. Zach’s office is located at 2435 W. Schaumburg Rd. in Schaumburg, IL. His phone number is (847) 891-6870. Zach has been a Financial

Representative since February 2002.

Leo Maldonado Chicago South Agency, Marc Rogala, Agency ManagerLeo Maldonado has been named Chicago South Career Financial Representative of the month for April 2014. His office is located at 3458 S. Halsted St. in Chicago, IL. His phone number is (773)254-5810. Leo has been a Career Financial

Representative since November 2012.

Silver Castillo Chicago South Agency, Marc Rogala, Agency ManagerSilver Castillo has been named Chicago South Employee Financial Representative of the month for April 2014. 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 April 2014. 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 April 2014. His 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].

Candace Jablonski Orland Park Agency, Cary Tate, Agency ManagerCandace Jablonski has been named Career Financial Representative of the Month for April 2014. Her office is located at 814 Laraway Rd. in New Lenox, IL. Her phone number is (815) 462-0338. Candace has been a Financial Rep since January

2000.

Nora Beverly Orland Park Agency, Cary Tate, Agency ManagerNora Beverly has been named Employee Financial Representative of the Month for April 2014. Her office is located at 9731 W. 165th St. Ste. 36 in Orland Park, IL. Her phone number is (708) 226-1111. Nora Beverly has been a Financial Rep

since August 2011.

Mike Salerno Chicago Northeast Agency, Joe Youngman, Agency ManagerMike Salerno has been named Career Financial Representative of the Month for April 2014. Mike’s office is located at 333 E. Dundee Road in Wheeling, IL. His phone number is (847) 419-1281. Mike has been a Financial Representative since

January 2003.

Yanni Zavakos Chicago Northeast Agency, Joe Youngman, Agency ManagerYanni Zavakos has been named Employee Financial Representative of the Month for April 2014. Yanni’s office is located at 333 E. Dundee Road in Wheeling, IL. His phone number is (847) 419-1281. Yanni has been a Financial Representative

since March 2010.

TJ Hansen South Holland Agency, Jeff Orman, Agency ManagerTJ Hansen has been named Career Financial Representative of the Month for April 2014. TJ’s office is located at 301 White Street, Ste AA in Frankfort, IL. His phone number is (815) 464-6058. TJ has been a Financial Representative since

December 2002.

Ted Parks South Holland Agency, Jeff Orman, Agency ManagerTed Parks has been named Employee Financial Representative of the Month for April 2014. Ted’s office is located at 4845 W. 167th St. in Oak Forest, IL. His phone number is (708) 560-7777. Ted has been a Financial Representative since

June 2012.

SUMMER FUN!SUMMER FUN!

Save 20% with Choice Hotels, Wyndam Hotel Group &

Great Wolf Lodge Wisconsin Dells

Tickets are $36.50

savings of $25!

Save up

to 25%

Tickets are $41.50

savings of $25!

Tickets are $32.50

savings of $2.50!

Visit the ‘Members Only’ area of our website to purchase your tickets and for pricing.

Contact our office for ticket prices and to purchase your tickets at (708)354-3276.

Discounted

Movie Tickets!

To view a list of all benefits, other theme park ticket prices, discount codes and other information, please visit the ‘Members Only’ area of our website.

It’s been a busy month for our Member Relations at the Farm Bureau. Many events were hosted by the Farm Bureau including a 5-week boating safety course where over 10 members learned all about boating safety, a Conceal and Carry course which gave members the required training needed to apply for a license, a babysitting class where all 15 attendees were successfully trained to be qualified babysitters and received a certification. Our most popular was a ‘Shred Day’ held at the Country Financial office in Rolling Meadows where over 70 members took advantage of this free event!

Shred Day

Boating Safety Class

Babysitting Class

Snapshots of Member Relations Activities


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

MiscellaneousMoving sale: bedrooms, dining rooms, Chinese furniture, sofas, antiques, household items. Come see! Give us a price. Located in Palos Hills. Call 708-822-4958.

Chicago Dynamics Pinball game. 1970 model 468. Many old beer cans, old small farm tool, etc. 1980 Arlington Million mugs, buttons, caps, etc. Some old baseball, basketball, football cards, old sleigh, other old things. Bemis Grain bags, extra heavy. Call 773-332-5412.

Child’s room table & chair, solid wood & in excellent condition $30. Also Magi Tree House kids books; hardcover $3, paperback $2. Professional rotary floor scrubber $250. Iron shepherds double hook plant hanger $16. Call 773-620-4119.

2 graves/side by side – Mt. Auburn Memorial Park “Garden of Devotion” L08-38, 4101 Oak Park Ave in Stickney, IL. Valued at $3,395 each but asking $3,395 for both. Call 708-442-7855.

500 VHS movies previously viewed, various titles. By lot only $3,500. Call Carl at 773-468-8094.

PackRight luggage carrier, straps to back of SUV 22” x 40” with license plate holder, used once $50. Call 847-812-1587.

Golf-Callaway (Irons X-22) P-3 like new $150. Bike – Schwinn Le Tour II, like new $100 OBO. Call 708-974-1677.

Pool table light $75. Must pick up. Call 312-719-5225.

Jenn-Air stainless steel NG grill w/rotisserie and side burner, only used once, retailed for $1,000 asking $250. Call 773-860-2690.

12 - 76” x 5.5” NEW TREX (Maderia color) deck flooring. Asking $11 a board. Call 630-564-0055.

Portable floor & carpet drying fan blower, single speed, 120 volt, 50 ft power cord, 15 inch wide housing, good condition, $60, in Homer Glen. Call 815-485-4257.

Wedding Dress: Size 10, Cream color, (I paid $1,400.00) asking $239.00. Sleep Number Bed “Modular Base” for King size bed - used 1 month $252.00. Steel Holders for 4x4 posts good for mailbox posts or whatever, 12 inches high $51.00 each. Disney Tickets-Old paper tickets for each area Adventureland, Frontierland, etc. Best offer. Call Kate at 708-269-3017 or email: [email protected]. In the Oak Lawn area.

28 ft. heavy-duty aluminum extension ladder $150. 20 ft x 12” aluminum scaffold plank $150. 8 ft. aluminum break $300.

Pepsi machine – 6 selection, coin or bill operated. Arlington Heights $450 OBO. Call 847-259-4025.

K-12 cut off saw, motor only, complete, $40. 1 Dining room rect. table set colonial oak w/6 chairs $130. 1 Craftsman 1.5 H.P., 2 Gal wet/dry vacuum, $20. 2 new 1992 Corvette brake rotors zinc plated, power slotted $80. 1 vintage Stimpson grocery butcher scale $250. Airo air saw for 2 ½” dia blade $50. 1 Star machine Little Oscar eng portable host $50. 1 Black & Decker 120 volt weed trimmer $25. 1 Machinist Mitutoyo height 24” Verner Gauge $75. 1 Buffalo vintage scale $100. 1 Hamilton drafting table desk, torsion auto shift with bruning drafting machine model 2707. Table is 38”x50” $400. Call 815-485-5901.

Two cemetery lots in the Greenwood section of Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Stickney, IL. Will accept best offer. Call 708-620-8357.

Thomasville bedroom set. Armoire, dresser, night stands and queen size bed. Exc. Condition, like new pillowtop mattress. Cost $1,200. All for $750. South west Suburbs in Worth, IL. Call 708-448-6048.

Motorized Vehicles and Accessories

1986 VW Vanagon Westphalia camper. Original owner 85,000 miles. Automatic transmission, runs good, no rust, garage kept, brown with beige top. Sleeps 4 $10,000. Call 630-835-6093.

Thor (Four Winds) Chateau, 31’ Class C RV one owner, excellent condition, gently used. Great mechanical and esthetic condition; meticulously maintained. Winterized. Ford E450 w/hitch. Sleeps six-plus. Only 60,000 miles. Call Karen 847-588-3601.

1950 Cadillac 2 door, white, automatic, orig. wire rims, orig. interior. Call Frankie at 312-738-0113.

1998 Chevy Utility van – low miles on newer motor, ice cold AC, spacious box-type storage/working space, excellent vehicle for contractor. Lift door needs repair $4,500. Please call 708-298-0317.

Tractors/ Farm Equipment

Toro wheel horse lawn tractor 16-38 HXL, 38”

cut. Excellent condition, new battery, includes

sweeper attachment. $625. Call Mike at 847-

382-7654.

Real Estate For Sale/Rent

Charming 3 bedroom, 1 bath ranch home in

Streamwood on a quiet street. Kitchen w/

newer appliances & dishwasher. Also included

is washer/dryer and wall-to-wall carpeting.

Attached 1 car garage, large yard, not fenced.

No pets. 1 yr lease required, $1,350/month.

Call 847-208-0991 or email johnbegley@

comcast.net

House for sale – Arlington Heights 4 bed,

2.5 bath, new roof, new furnace, granite

kitchen countertops, gas forced air, fantastic

location near top-rated elementary and high

schools, train and shopping. Hardwood floors

throughout $449,900. Sp to 847-259-4025.

Vacation Rentals/Sales

Vacation close to Disney World and stay in spacious 3 bedroom Villa. $650 wk. Call 708-704-6239.

Presidential suite resort located within minutes of Branson, MO entertainment district. Lock-out units that sleep 6 or more, 2 bedrooms, 2 bath, full kitchen, washer/dryer and private balcony. Asking price is $25,000. Call 708-209-8873 for more details.

5 Star Resort 3 br/2 ba condo 2 miles from Disney World Orlando. Rental rates from $80/night. Call 630-853-7669 or go to www.vrbo.com/218673.

Vacation Villas at Fantasyworld II Resort in Kissimmee, Florida. Seven (7) nights in one bedroom suite, full kitchen, outdoor swimming pool, sleeps four (4). $650 for seven (7) nights. No presentation is required. Call Ms. Day at 708-347-9369 for availability.

1 bdr/2 fireplaces, extra larger Jacuzzi, fully stocked kitchen luxury suite in Door County, WI. Bridgeport Resort on the water in downtown Sturgeon Bay. Best ROI for owners in NE WI for Condo Hotels. Call for details 847-870-1721.

WantedWanting to buy your HO scale or N scale electric

train engines, cars, buildings, or anything train

related. Do you have electric trains in your

closet, basement, crawl space, attic or garage

that you’re not using? TURN THEM INTO CASH!

I buy train items, from just a few pieces to

hundreds of pieces at a time. Why sell them bit

by bit, I’ll offer you a price on all you have! I’m

retired and just enjoy trains. I realize that some

may need work from sitting for a long time,

but I have the time to fix them! Turn those

unwanted train items into CASH, and give me

a call! You can my cell 630-272-4433. Ask for

Ron. Thanks!

Wanted: Old guitars, 1920’s-1980’s: Gibson,

Martin, Fender etc. Also, Gibson mandolins/

banjos, old drum set & old jukebox. Please call

708-361-8230.

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. Only items of personal property will be accepted. Ads must be in the office by the 15th of each month.

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

Name ____________________________________________________________________________

Farm Bureau # __________________________________ Phone ______________________________

Ad ____________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

*Please be sure to include a contact phone number where interested buyers can contact you.Ad can be typed or written. PRINT CLEARLY. (If not enough room, put on separate sheet)

Complete the above form and mail to:Cook County Farm Bureau, 6438 Joliet Road, Countryside, IL 60525.

You can also fax your ad to (708) 579-6056 or email to [email protected] Non-member 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.

Illinois Farm Bureau Members, Families Encouraged To Submit Entries To

2014 Member Photo Contest

The Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) is once again asking its members to bring rural life into focus by taking and submitting pictures for the annual member photography contest.

Picture Illinois, the 2014 Member Photo Contest, is open to IFB members and their families. The contest is limited to photos taken in Illinois in 2012 or after, by amateur photographers.

Entrants can submit their photos to one of three categories, including “Country Kids,” “Rural Routes” and “These Boots

Are Made For…”. The grand prize winner will receive $150, while three first place winners will receive $75 each, three second place winners will receive $25 each and the photo selected as “Members’ Choice” at IFB’s 2014 Annual Meeting in December will receive $50.The contest runs from June 1 to Nov. 1, 2014. Winners will be announced in the Spring 2015 issue of Partners magazine and in FarmWeek in January, 2015. Employees and immediate family members of Illinois Farm Bureau and its affiliated companies are not eligible. To view previous winning photos, obtain the complete contest rules and to enter online, go to www.ilfbphotos.org. For questions, or to obtain the contest rules and entry form by mail, contact Dawn Heggie at 309-557-2293 or [email protected].

There’s An App for That:Finding Farmers’ Markets

The Cook County Farm Bureau will be in attendance at Wagner Farm on Saturday June 14th . Come join us and enjoy a delicious farm style breakfast that includes a variety of dairy items. There will be live music, dairy

demonstrations, wagon rides, and hands-on activities throughout the morning. Tickets can be purchased at the door and are $10 for adults and children over 10; $5 for children ages 2-10; children under 2 free.

Cook County Farm Bureau PR Team and volunteers from County Financial will have give-a-ways, activities for kids, a drawing for a pedal tractor, and will bring in a large tractor for viewing.

12th Annual Wagner Farm Dairy BreakfastSaturday June 14th from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm

‘Tis the season for thriving farmer’s markets, and with an app called Market Mapper, you can easily find some local f lavor. The app pulls from the U.S. Agriculture Department’s extensive list of farmers’ markets nationwide and is available through your web browser. Once on the site, at the top of the page you can enter a location, or let the app navigate from your current location. Hovering over a marker will display the name and address of the market. Most markets will also show a list of what they sell as well as their schedule. To check out the app and find Farmers’ Markets near you visit: http://mvjantzen.com/tools/markets.html


2012 Ag Census data released

The results from the 2012 Census of Agriculture in the United States have been released to the public. A Census of Agriculture is conducted every five years with previous comparable data coming from the 2007 Census. The following are few key general statistics of interest…• The average age of a principal farm operator

in the United States as of 2012 was 58.3 years old compared to 57.1 years old in 2007. This continues a 30 year uptrend.

• Illinois has 75,087 principal farm owners according to the latest census and 63,645 of them have been operating 10 years or more.

• The number of farmers age 35 to 54 declined in the recent five-year stretch. But the number of farmers 25 to 34 years of age increased 6.6%.

• Based on the value of sales in 2012, Illinois ranked number two nationwide in corn and soybean sales (last year, he ranked number one in soy production), number four in hogs, number 16 for wheat, number 18 for cattle, and number 21 in milk sales.

• Farmers rent about 60% of farmland in Illinois.

• Nearly half of the 2.1 million farms in the United States require at least one family member to work off the farm.

• Women are the principal operators of 14% of the nation’s farms.

• The number of Hispanic principal operators nationally increased 21% from 2007 to 2012.

More information about the ag census this can be found online at agcensus.usda.govInformation for this article provided in part by Daniel Grant, FarmWeek

ALL MAILED AND FAXED ORDERS MUST BE RECEIVED FRIDAY, JULY 11TH.

PRE-GAME PATIO PARTY** @ $32 (reg. $42)

Outfield Reserved @ $12 (regular $22)

Total Enclosed

Lower Box @ $25 (regular $40)

Upper Box @ $10 (regular $15)

# OF TICKETS TICKET PRICE TOTAL

On this special night the White Sox would like to offer specially priced tickets to all

Farm Bureau members, their families and friends. Tickets start as low as $10!

In addition to specially-priced tickets, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase discounted Patio Party Tickets.

The Patio starts 90 minutes before the game and lasts 30 minutes after the scheduled start time. The Patio menu

includes a delicious all-you-can-eat menu catered by Bertucci Buffet, featuring BBQ ribs, hamburgers, hot dogs,

Cajun chicken, fried chicken, side salads, wine, Pepsi, and Miller beverages

**DISCOUNTED PATIO TICKETS CAN ONLY BE PURCHASED BY MAILING OR FAXING YOUR ORDER.

Orders will NOT be redeemed at the U.S. Cellular Field ticket windows or the White Sox administrative offices.

Handling Fee (Applies to groups of 19 or less) $5

FOR MORE INFORMATION, GO TO WHITESOX.COM/SPECIALEVENTS

Seating Category

Diamond Box (Rows 1-10)

Platinum Box (Rows 11-25)

Gold Box

Premium Club Box

Club Box

Lower Box

Outfield Reserved

Bleachers

Lower Corners

Premium Upper Box (Rows 1-6)

Upper Box

Upper Reserved

Upper Corners

MagellanScout Seats

Gold Coast Tickets Club

Seating Category



Gold Box

Premium Club Box

Club Box

Lower Box

Outfield Reserved

Bleachers

Lower Corners


Upper Box

Upper Reserved

Upper Corners

MagellanScout Seats

Gold Coast Tickets Club Seating Category



Gold Box

Premium Club Box

Club Box

Lower Box

Outfield Reserved

Bleachers

Lower Corners


Upper Box

Upper Reserved

Upper Corners

MagellanScout Seats

Gold Coast Tickets Club

Name

Address

City, State, Zip

Phone E-mail

Please charge my: Visa Mastercard Amex Discover

Credit Card # Expiration Date

Signature

OR: Enclosed is a check or money order payable to the Chicago White Sox.

Check #

(If check or money order is greater than total cost of the tickets, the difference will be made up in Comiskey Cash.)

SPECIALLY PRICED WHITE SOX TICKETS!

Car Parking @ $20

4 OPTIONS TO ORDER TICKETS:

1. WEBwww.whitesox.com/fbn(Service fees will apply)

2. CALL (866) 769-4263 for Ticketmaster and give the “CCFB” code (Service fees will apply)

3. MAIL with payment to: Chicago White Sox Sales Department ATTN: Farm Bureau GSG 333 W. 35th Street Chicago, IL 60616

4. FAX with payment to: (312) 674-5140

www.whitesox.com/fbn

DM

All game times and promotions are subject to change. NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES.

FARM BUREAU GRAND SLAM GROUPWHITE SOX VS. RANGERS

Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2014 - 7:10 P.M. U.S. Cellular Field

LocalFarmProducts.org is a website dedicated for the entire Chicagoland area to help consumers find local farm product marketers. Localfarmproducts.org offers everything “farm” from fresh food to hay to green industry producers. As the premier organization serving farmers of Cook County, the Cook County Farm Bureau is excited to offer this service for farmers and the general public, as consumers continue to focus their “food buying dollars” on locally produced products and services. We hope that farmers and consumers alike find this meaningful programming linking local consumers in a way that helps to fulfill our goal for financial strength amongst our producers.

Localfarmproducts.org

The cost of the Institute is $250* for non-farm bureau members and $225 for current mem-bers. (Join the farm bureau and save $25 on your registration fee.) Teachers who complete the course will receive a $100 stipend! Graduate credits will be an additional cost of $200.

A $50 deposit will reserve your spot!

Cook County Farm Bureau Foundation

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

Diane Merrion Ag Literacy Coordinator Cook County Farm Bureau 6438 Joliet Road Countryside, IL 60525

SAI-2 Educating the

Next Generation:

Food, Fuel & Fiber

from K-12

July 8-11, 2014

Earn 24 CPDUs or 2 Grad Credits!

Our Summer Ag Institute gives you the

chance to dive deeper into agriculture by

spending several days and two nights trav-

eling in central Illinois. This class focuses

on how food, fiber and fuel are part of our

everyday lives. Meet farm families, tour

agribusinesses and walk away from the

program with Common Core Connections

to use in every aspect of your teaching.

Suite 1: 9 Executive Offices, small conference room, spacious work area, large glass doors & windows for open feel

Suite 2: 2 Executive offices with small conference room and ample work area plus large glass doors and windows for open feel.

Each has…- Ground level entrance- Near I-294 & I-55 on Joliet Road- Additional storage space available

Extras Include: Electric, Heat, Water Recycling and Refuse Collection Cleaning Service Lawn Care & Grounds Maintenance Snow/Ice Removal Building Repair/Maintenance Payment of Real Estate Taxes

Contact Cook County Farm Bureau at (708)354-3276 for questions.

Office SuitesAvailable Now!

Beekeeper Marge inspects the hives in the Lyman Woods bee yard.

SAI-2 – Educating the Next Generation: Food, Fuel & Fiber in the Classroom

July 8-11, 2014

Bee “Apiary” Visit ~ Tuesday, June, 10th 1:00 PM-3:00 PM Lyman Woods, Downers Grove Park District Members will tour the Bee Apiary run by Naturalist and Beekeeping Instructor, Marge Trocki. Protective clothing is available for the first 15 who register to attend. Members will meet at Lyman Woods and the tour will begin at 1 PM - weather permitting. To register, call the County Farm Bureau at 708-354-3276 or email [email protected] by June 6th.

Testa Produce Tour ~ Wednesday, June 25th 10 AM Testa, a Fresh Produce Distributor, Chicago IL This family-owned fresh produce distributor has worked with vendors and customers to maintain high quality produce to the consumer for the past 100 years! Tour the “green” facility that distributes to Chicagoland restaurants, schools, hotels, hospitals, sporting venues and more. Members will meet at Testa Produce and the 60-90 Minute tour will begin at 10 Am and will view its “green” roof top. To register, call the County Farm Bureau at 708-354-3276 or email [email protected] by June 20th. Tour is limited to 25.

Cook County Farm Bureau® Commodities & Marketing Team sponsored event.

6438 Joliet Rd Countryside, IL 60525 708.354.3276 www.cookcfb.org/Events-Calendar

C o

Agricultural Tours for Members Seeing Agriculture in Action

On multiple days the Testa Turbine generates enough energy to power

the entire building.

Documents

June Cooperator 2014